Intel Foxhollow platform unveiled

Posted on Wednesday, November 28 2007 @ 16:20 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
FUD Zilla sums up some information about the Intel Foxhollow entry-level platform which will start sampling in Q3 2008. The Foxhollow platform features a cheap dual-core processor with integrated graphics and uses the single-chip Ibexpeak chipset.
Since Intel will have moved the memory controller and the integrated graphics into the CPU by now, there's no longer any need for an MCH and an ICH, so Intel has simplified its chipset design to keep cost down in the entry-level and mainstream segments. The chipset interfaces with the CPU via Intel's aging DMI interconnect, which seems quite odd at first, but when you consider that the PCIe 2.0 controller is built into the CPU, this might not be an issue.

The PCH will house things like eight PCIe lanes, support for up to four PCI slots, the Gigabit Ethernet MAC, display interface controllers, I/O controllers, RAID and SATA controllers, USB 2.0 controller etc. This is pretty much what the ICH is doing today bar a few exceptions such as the display interface controller. The reason why this is in the chipset and not in the CPU, is because it has to physically connect to the ports on the motherboard.
Havendale is a desktop processor while Auburndale will be used in notebooks. Both CPUs are dual-core, with 4MB shared cache, integrated dual-channel DDR3 memory controller and integrated graphics. Intel claims these new integrated graphics will perform ten times better than their current IGP solutions.



About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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