AMD rides Vista wave with graphics chipset
Processor giant launches a notebook-compatible version of its 690 range
AMD is aiming to boost graphics performance and connectivity in notebooks with the introduction of the M690 chipset, a mobile version of its desktop 690 chipset.
The new chipset is targeted at those wanting to use many of Vista’s graphics-intensive features on the move, and is powered by the ATI Radeon X1200 graphics processor. This is the first AMD chipset to support ATI Avivo technology with integrated high-definition multimedia interface and digital visual interface connectivity options, which will enable video playback of high-definition content.
Phil Eisler, corporate vice-president and general manager, AMD chipset division, said: “With graphics engine expertise and our mobile processor leadership, we are delivering a cohesive mobile platform for commercial and consumer customers that demand the Windows Vista Premium experience on the go.
“AMD CPU and GPU technologies work in tandem to deliver increased battery life for mobile workers and consumers who demand a superior graphics and multimedia experience wherever the road takes them.”
Consumers are expected to be the first takers for the new Windows Vista operating system, but AMD and others have a long way to go to convince businesses that they need Vista, especially on notebooks.
According to recent research from Gartner Dataquest, Windows Vista will have a limited impact on PC sales in 2007 and said large businesses are not expected to invest in Vista until its reliability with other software applications has been proven.
The M690 is promising longer battery life thanks to a technology dubbed Display Cache, which allows the CPU to operate in low-power mode without accessing system memory. When combined with the Turion 64 X2 dual-core mobile processors, AMD claimed battery life is 30 minutes longer than its existing offerings.
The chipset will also benefit from the latest ATI Catalyst graphics drivers. Notebook vendors planning to use the new chipset include Asus, Hewlett-Packard (HP) and Fujitsu Siemens Computing.
Carol Hess-Nickels, director, worldwide business notebook marketing, personal systems group, HP, told CRN: “HP and AMD have a strong track record of working together to provide innovative mobile solutions.”