Intel debuts Atom Z2760 Windows 8 tablet processor
updated 08:56 pm EDT, Thu September 27, 2012
Chip formerly known as 'Clover Trail' available in October to OEM
Intel has disclosed specific details of the renamed Clover Trail processor, now called the Intel Atom Z2760 processor. The processor is a highly integrated dual-core system on a chip specially designed and targeted for Windows 8 tablets and tablet convertibles, including both the new Windows 8 user interface and familiar Windows desktop modes.
Other details on tablets equipped with the Z2760 were provided by Intel. Expected dimensions are as thin as 8.5 mm (0.33 inches) and as light as 1.5 pounds. Battery life is expected to sustain over 10 hours of local HD video playback, and over three weeks of standby time. Near-field communication will allow short-range wireless communications with other NFC devices, and integral support for up to an 8MP rear camera with 2MP front-facing camera, as well as Wi-Fi, 3G and 4G LTE communication standards supported.
The processor itself is a dual-core four-thread design, with speeds up to 1.8GHz. Burst technology allows for higher clock speeds temporarily to provide better performance for processor intensive tasks. Integrated graphics with up to a 533MHz core frequency and hardware acceleration for HD playback of up to 1080P encode and decode is built in as well.
Intel is positioning the new chip for the "best Windows 8 experience" with "compatibility and support for traditional apps and peripherals" wirelessly or on the supported USB 2.0 standard. Intel claims at least 20 Z2760 tablets in the works, with expected prices of $800 and up.
