Intel rolls out Centrino 2 processor; Earnings on tap
Intel on Tuesday launched its Centrino 2 processor with integrated graphics for notebooks. This chip platform, formerly known as Montevina, was delayed by a few weeks due to technical and certification problems.
The news (Techmeme, statement) comes as Intel preps its second quarter earnings, which will be closely watched. Intel is expected to report earnings of 25 cents a share after market close and the results should be on target. Why? Most of Intel's sales come from abroad--it is fairly insulated from the U.S. economy. Nevertheless, profit margins will be under the microscope to see if AMD is putting up a pricing fight.
Intel had planned to roll out Centrino 2 about the same time AMD unveiled its Puma platform for notebook PCs. AMD, however, was out first with its chip and integrated graphics--a rare win for Intel's primary rival.
In the meantime, the Centrino 2 lineup includes dual-core processors--including one running at 3.06 GHz--with plans to unveil eight processors in 90 days. That batch will include the first mobile quad-core chips. Intel plans to have a lineup of 14 new processors to power laptops. The first installment of the Centrino 2 rollout includes five dual core processors.
Intel's big pitch with the Centrino 2 is better performance, improved battery life, faster Wi-Fi and WiMax in the future. Intel expects nearly 250 systems built on the Centrino 2 platform.
Among the details:
- The processors come with a faster 1066MHz front side bus and up to 6MB of L2 cache;
- Three versions of the first five operate at 25 watts;
- Processor components can idle to save power;
- Wi-Fi data rates up to 450 Mbps.
Intel said Centrino 2 laptops will hit the market later this month and into August. Here's a look at the prices list:
