CedarTrail
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Intel's full Atom 'Bay Trail' roadmap leaked: 22nm, Ivy Bridge graphics, quad-core
We saw a leaked hint of what was coming for Intel's Valleyview system-on-a-chip (SoC), but now the full plan appears to have been outed by Chinese blog Expreview. The lineup will feature four models of the 22nm chips, with the D- and M-series looking to replace the Cedar Trail 32nm SoC chips used in current netbook and low-end desktop devices. The I-series is for embedded and industrial use, while the T-series would appear in tablets and other small form-factor devices, according to the leaked slides. That model would supersede the Clover Trail SoCs, which are only just arriving themselves in upcoming Windows 8 slates like the Acer W510 or Asus Tablet 810. The chips should offer a burly horsepower bump over their predecessors, with up to four cores and clock speeds topping out at 2.4Ghz. The icing on the cake will be the integrated Gen 7 graphics engines of Ivy Bridge fame, featuring the same HD 4000 and HD 2500 GPU's as the grownup chips, but with only four "execution units" instead of the 16 you'd find there. That would offload functions like video decoding and 3D rendering from the CPU and allow simultaneous display to a TV or monitor. Bay Trail would also support 8GB of DDR3 RAM, double that of the "last" gen, as well as USB 3.0, SATA 2.0 and a host of other connection options. If the leak is accurate, the processors would arrive sometime next year, we'll just have to wait and see if that's soon enough for Intel to take a run at its formidable competition.
Giada intros i35G mini PC with Intel's Cedar Trail, NVIDIA GT 610 graphics
It's only been a little over a month since Giada first introduced that itty-bitty, Ivy Bridge-loaded i53 mini PC, but the outfit wants to have something for everyone and is now announcing a lesser-specced i35G series. Although not as powerful as its i53 brethren, the i35G's got some nice attributes of its own, including -- you guessed it -- Intel's Cedar Trail CPU, a hot-off-the-press GeForce GT 610 GPU and 2GB of RAM with the base model (up to 4GB) -- not to mention an all-in-one card reader, five USB 2.0 ports plus VGA, HDMI ports. Additionally, the standard unit comes with a 320GB hard drive, though if you're looking for a quick boost, it's easily upgradable to some solid-state drive goodness. Giada's letting go of its petite i35G starting at $274, but you'll have to call North America home, as it's only available in Canada and the States.
Zotac's ZBOX ID84 mini PC sports Cedar Trail CPU and optional NVIDIA, starts at $229
As recent history would kindly tell us, Zotac really, really loves its tiny computing boxes. Now the outfit's introduced yet another one to its mini PC mix: enter the ZBOX ID84. The standalone unit -- which lacks an HDD and memory sticks -- is set to be priced at a not-too-shabby $229, while the "Plus" model will carry a more expensive $319 price tag, but does come sporting a decent 320GB (5,400RPM) hard drive, 2GB of DDR3 RAM, NVIDIA's GeForce GT 520M GPU alongside the dual-core Intel Atom D2550 CPU. Ports-wise the ZBOX ID84 Plus is pretty well-stacked, sporting two USB 3.0, four USB 2.0, a notorious 6-in-1 card reader, gigabit Ethernet, plus DVI and HDMI. All in all, it looks like Zotac's latest miniature could get most anyone through the days, though we wouldn't blame you if you're interested in something with a little more power under the hood.
Lenovo ThinkPad tablet with Windows 8 and Intel Inside stops by the FCC
Bearing a TP00043AWD model number, Lenovo's Windows 8 ThinkPad tablet has apparently stopped by the FCC for testing, making it the second we've seen after ASUS' Tablet 810 made the rounds. Although there aren't any glamor shots or specs available, the design shown closely matches the tablet we spent some hands-on time with at Computex in June and a quick zoom in the lower right corner reveals that new Windows logo alongside another one for Intel. When we saw it last the spec list included a 10.1-inch 1366 x 768 display, Intel Clover Trail CPU, 2- and 8MP cameras front and back plus the usual assortment of connectors. Check after the break for a bigger look at the diagram and zoom of the revealing logos, or hit the source link to go through any unsealed documents with a fine toothed comb.
ASUS' Cedar Trail-loaded EeeBox EB1030 nettop keeps your desk clean, thumbs green
We've seen a fair share of space-saving nettops pass through our very own crowded halls, so what's one more to add to the list? Especially when it's one being flaunted as the most eco-friendly, energy-efficient PC. That's exactly what ASUS thinks of its EeeBox EB1030, which aside from sporting a relatively minimalist design (as is usually the case with nettops), it's also boasting Intel's latest batch of Cedar Trail CPUs. To go along with those Atom processors (1.86GHz), ASUS is making this mini machine as configurable as it could get, giving users the option to load it with up to 4GB of RAM and a 500GB hard drive combined with 32GB of SSD goodness. Ports-wise the unit's pretty standard, offering options such as an HDMI, VGA, microphone, audio jack, card reader and four USB two-dot-ohs. Of course, the amount of cash you'll have to shell out will depend on the setup of choice, with pricing set to start at €296, or around $370 in American dollars. %Gallery-159480%
Shuttle takes quiet nettops down the Cedar Trail, intros XS35V3 and XS35GTA V3
Nettops have slipped a bit out of vogue, but Shuttle is keeping the flame alive for those who like their desktops tiny and hushed. The XS35V3 and XS35GTA V3 have moved on to more contemporary Cedar Trail-era, 2.13GHz Atom D2700 processors that keep the power draw to a fanless 27W, even when everything is churning at full bore. That limit might get tested with the GTA variant, which brings in Radeon HD 7410M graphics for a lift to 3D performance, but neither mini desktop will exactly make the power company beg for mercy. Either is a barebones kit with the laptop-sized hard drive, optical drive and OS left to the buyer -- if you don't get them at the same time, you'll have only the HDMI, VGA, USB and card reader to keep you company. Europeans are currently the only ones getting a crack, where it costs €172 pre-tax ($214) for the XS35V3 and €233 ($290) to get its faster GTA cousin.
J&W announces M001 Cedar Trail nettop, to keep desks and ears happy
If you like your computing to be neither seen, nor heard (or less seen and less heard), J&W has announced another bantam slab of nettop for your consideration. On the inside there's a choice of Cedar Trail D2550, N2800 and N2600 dual-core options, with support for up to 4GB of DDR3 RAM. Diminutive machines don't mean lack of I/O, and in this case you'll be getting three USB ports, a multicard reader, LAN, HDMI, VGA and RS232. Fanlesstech points out that it's actually a nano-ITX system, which measuring in at only 135 x 128 x 45 mm means it can be tucked away into even more convenient crevices. Just make sure not to hide it away too securely, else that 802.11.n WiFi might suffer.
Novero Solana convertible netbook gets flipped by the FCC
If you're excited about convertible tablets but can't wait for the IdeaPad Yoga to arrive, then perhaps Novero's Solana might give you a temporary fix. It's a dinky netbook (yes, netbook) that runs both Windows 7 and Android, but you can flip the display over in its frame to turn it into a tablet PC. It's packing a dual-core 1.6GHz Intel Atom N2600, Intel GMA 3600 IGP Graphics, 2GB of RAM and a choice of 32 or 64GB of solid-state storage. Fortunately, it looks like it won't be long before we get to clench it to our chests since it's now been given the thumbs-up from the assembled experts down in the FCC's underground bunker. For around $800, you too can pretend it's 2009 all over again, just remember to bring the Flo Rida.
Intel leaks: ValleyView chip could bring 4x graphics boost to netbooks in 2013
One of many reasons to still be excited about Ivy Bridge is the integrated HD4000 graphics, which are zippy enough to handle Skyrim at modest settings. Desktoppers may not be so enthused if they stick to discrete GPUs anyway, but the potential for better graphics in cheaper, low-power mobile PCs is huge. That's why we're hyped to hear talk of a forthcoming 22nm "ValleyView" processor, described by Intel insider Jesse Barnes as a "CedarView-like chip but with an Ivy Bridge graphics core". That implies HD4000 may not only be destined for desktops, laptops and Project Fionas, but for future netbooks too. Meanwhile, leaked slides (shown above and after the break) from an outfit called Advantech spill more beans. Listed under a chipset codenamed "Balboa Pier", the Cedar Trail successor is described as fanless, packing "4x Gfx performance" compared to current PowerVR-equipped Atoms, and scheduled to arrive early next year. Will it be enough to bring netbooks back into vogue? It can't hurt.
Novero's Solana is an $800 netbook running Windows 7 and Android, we go hands-on
The last time we saw the Novero Solana, we were prowling Intel's booth at CES in search of prototypes. Because it was Intel, not Novero, showing the device, the emphasis was on that Cedar Trail processor inside, as well as that kooky form factor -- a netbook with a titling, easel-like touchscreen. What we didn't know then was that the Solana also runs Android, and that it's almost ready for prime time: it's expected to hit Europe and North America within the next two to three months, priced at about €699 or $799, respectively. We had a chance to play with some more polished hardware here at Mobile World Congress, and also see the machine running Gingerbread. Follow past the break for some early impressions or, if it's too early in the US to stomach reading, have a gander at our quickie demo video.%Gallery-149169%%Gallery-149172%
Acer Aspire One D270 netbook up for pre-order
Still not convinced by the whole Ultrabook thing? Well neither's Acer it seems, as it refuses to pull the tubes from its netbook division. The latest such offering for your pre-order delight? The Aspire One D270. Sure, there's no HSPA+ like the recently revamped Aspire One 722 -- a fact reflected in the rather friendly $279 price tag -- but you do get 1.6GHz of Cedar Trail, a 10.1 inch 1024 x 600 display, HDMI, 3 USB 2.0 ports, 1GB of RAM, and a 320GB hard disk drive. If this sounds like just the trick for you, point and click at the source links below for the goodness.
Intel-powered Windows 8 tablets to struggle for sub-$600 pricing?
Microsoft has a big battle ahead to overcome the overwhelming popularity of the iPad on the tablet computing front, and its Intel-powered slates might be starting at a distinct disadvantage if a DigiTimes report is to be believed. The site indicates that neither Intel nor Microsoft are willing to cut their prices to help manufacturers, the former providing the Clover Trail hardware and the latter the Windows 8 software, which could see these machines starting at $599 and going way up from there. This could send manufacturers looking for lesser-expensive ARM-powered hardware, creating tablets incapable of executing the current gamut of x86 Windows software. Will users pay a premium for app compatibility as tablet prices on other platforms plummet? Just how attached are you to that copy of Wing Commander you've been hanging on to for decades?
Lenovo announces brainier Classmate+ PC, heads to top of the class
Kids have been honing their computer smarts on Intel-based Classmate PCs for a few years now, and Lenovo's just sewn its name inside the collar of its second generation of student-friendly lappies. Based on the chip maker's "Learning Series," Lenovo's new boy comes in clamshell and convertible flavors, and brings an Atom N2600 processor, a max of 2GB DDR3 memory and up to a 320GB -- or 32GB solid state -- storage along to class. It'll launch in uniform grey (like the first generation pictured), but orders that meet the minimum requirement can choose to splash a little color on top. As before, these things are designed to handle the daily rigors dished out by a nine-year-old, hence a new rotating hinge on the convertible, strengthened and designed to last "tens of thousands of cycles." Should be enough to see you into adulthood then. It's available to institutions as of this month, but if you want to know more, hit the PR after the break.
Gigabyte intros S1081 Windows slate and T1006M netvertible, both packing Cedar Trail
Intel told us to expect next-gen netbooks from a throng of manufacturers, but for some reason it forgot to mention little ol' Gigabyte. Perhaps that's why the Taiwanese manufacturer is being slightly standoffish when it comes to detailing its two new 10-inch slates, which both run on unspecified variants of Cedar Trail and have equally unknown launch dates and prices. What we do know is that the T1006M is a convertible tablet that sports 1366 x 768 densely packed pixels, a USB 3.0 port and what appears to be an optional 3.5G modem -- specs that are already familiar from our recent encounter at the FCC. Next comes the S1081, which is a straightforward Windows 7 business slate like its $680 predecessor and comes with a choice of HDD or SSD storage, an optical trackpad for extra "precision," USB 3.0, VGA and HDMI outputs, plus the same optional multimedia dock. Rest assured that we'll track these newcomers down on the CES floor to fill in the blanks and judge how well they stand out, now that the quiet trail has become a highway. Until then, feel free to read on for the press release -- which also reveals that the Booktop T1132, Booktop M2432 and P2532 gaming notebook are all heading to the US market.
Toshiba NB510 makes pre-CES appearance, stands up for the netbook cause
CES 2012 is expected to be reigned by the generation of Ultrabooks, but the netbooks of the world refuse to quit without a fight -- at least that's what Toshiba hopes. According to Notebook Italia, the Japanese company is expected to introduce the NB510 mini-machine in Las Vegas next week, splitting the numerical difference between the NB500 and NB520 from a year ago. The rig's said to be sporting Intel's Cedar Trail Atom processors, accompanied by one gig of DDR3 RAM, a WSVGA (1,024 x 600) display and it'll be running on Windows 7 Starter Edition. Price tag on the lappy might be €340 (around $400 in US cash) for the entry-level variant, but we'll hold our horses on that until we see an official unveiling in the upcoming days. [Thanks, Marco]
ASUS Eee PC Flare leaked ahead of CES, AMD and Intel models promised
Choosing is hard. And in the case of ASUS' forthcoming netbook line, totally not necessary. Just days after Intel snuck out details surrounding the next generation of its Atom line, out flows shots and information about what'll undoubtedly be one of the first next-gen netbooks to use 'em. The Eee PC Flare line is expected to supplant the long-standing Seashell range at this year's Consumer Electronics Show, with a smattering of models to be lining ASUS' booth. Outside of lively, sleeker exteriors, we're told to expect models with the new N2600 and N2800 Atom CPU line, a 12-incher powered by AMD's Fusion APU line and the token chiclet-style keyboard that we've all grown used to. It's also possible that we'll see revised 10-inchers alongside the big boys, with the 1225B, 1225C, 1025C and 1025CE named in particular. Naturally, we'll be bringing you more as we get it. Oh, and "netbooks are back, baby!"
Lenovo Ideapad S110 may be blazing the Cedar Trail, ditching netbook moniker
Between the line of Cedar Trail notebooks marching their way through the FCC and Intel's recent shipping announcement, it's high time manufacturers started parading out next year's kits. Today's tease hails from Lenovo, which has outed the Ideapad S110 in no less than four fabulous colors. Although the outfit's promo video doesn't touch on hardware specs, a Pro Vantage product page claims the setup sports an Intel Atom 2600 processor. The self titled "mini notebook" features a 10.1-inch "HD display," presumably rocking the same 720p resolution as the rig's optional 2 megapixel webcam, if not the full 1080p Intel says the N2600 supports. Buyers will also be able to opt for an optional 3G radio, though USB 3.0, Lenovo quick start "instant on," and a 98-percent full-size chiclet keyboard all come standard. The video didn't pack an official press release, but we hear there's a major trade show right around the corner that's just perfect for announcing products.
Intel starts shipping Atom N2600, N2800 processors for netbooks, ten hours of battery life promised
We've already seen a few benchmarks and other hints that they'd soon be shipping, and Intel has now officially announced that its new Cedar Trail Atom processors are finally available, with the first systems using them set to roll out early next year. The two chips you'll likely be seeing the most of are the Atom N2600 and N2800 -- both dual-core, and both designed for use in netbooks, where they promise to allow for up to ten hours of battery life and "weeks of standby," and offer support for 1080p video playback. Also rolling out today are the D2500 and D2700, which are designed for use in entry-level desktops and all-in-one computers, as well as more commercial systems. As for all those systems themselves, details remain a bit light, but Intel says you can expect to see some from Acer, Asus, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, and Toshiba.
Early Atom N2600 benchmark, can't cedar wood for the trails?
It goes without saying that benchmarking something pre-release requires a cavalcade of sodium-chloride, but our curiosity was piqued at the prospect of some Cedar Trail sneak-peeks. Netbook Live has been at it again, pitting a 1.6GHz Atom N2600-touting ASUS Eee PC X101CH, against machines sporting 1.66GHz Atom N570 (ASUS 1015PX) and 1.0 GHz AMD C-50 (ASUS 1015B and Tosh NB550D) chips. The initial reports suggest that the 32nm-based N2600 is a touch behind the N570 in general CPU terms, but forges confidently ahead when it comes to graphics. The C-50 showed mixed results in CPU tests, with the N2600 falling behind on graphics this time round. The take-away being if you need more CPU oomph go for the meatier 1.83 GHz N2800. Hit the source link for the blow by blow breakdown.
Gigabyte's T1006 at the FCC, flaunts some convertible Cedar Trail style
We just caught wind of Gigabyte's latest netvertible, the T1132, just days ago, and now its cousin, the T1006, has popped up at the FCC. Like its sibling, the T1006 comes with VGA, HDMI, and three USB ports (one 3.0, one 2.0, and one combo USB/eSATA port) along with a 1366 x 768 capacitive display. (Pixel density enthusiasts should note that those pixels are packed into a 10.1-inch screen unlike the 11.6-inch panel found on the T1132.) Instead of the Core i5 CPU found in its relative, the T1006 is powered by an unspecified Atom chip with Intel GMA 3650 graphics -- which tells us that it's Cedar Trail silicon. There's also 802.11b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1, and an optional 3G radio rounds out the wireless connectivity. Interest sufficiently piqued? There's plenty more pics and an owner's manual to quench your curiosity at the source below.
