Intel launches Atom E600, modular Stellarton chip
updated 04:20 pm EDT, Tue September 14, 2010
Intel Atom E600 to reach embedded hardware
Intel used the second day of its Developer Forum to show the production version of its Tunnel Creek processor. The newly re-labeled Atom E600 (PDF) is built for embedded devices like tablets, in-car systems and fixed phones. Apart from putting all main functions on the processor, it also has an open PCI Express interface to connect to not just non-Intel chipsets but other components.
A variant on the E600, nicknamed Stellarton, also makes for a more modular design that lets hardware designers customize the hardware further. The chip package can include a third-party component such as a hardware accelerator or an custom-developed interface. E600 launches will depend on the companies planning to release produces based on the new Atom chip, while Stellarton should arrive sometime later.
Intel's media-oriented CE series is getting an upgrade in the CE4200. It replaces the CE4100 and has enough power to display a 3D picture as well as hardware H.264 video encoding that can create new video files on the spot. The chip producer imagines it being useful for creating a mobile version of a video for a phone or MP3 player.
Plans for hardware based on CE4200 aren't concrete, but ADB, Samsung, Sagemcom and Technicolor expect to make hardware. The Boxee Box now uses a CE4100 and could use the CE4200 in a sequel should one appear.
