On Monday Intel (INTC) announced the configurable Atom processor E600C series, which features an Intel Atom E600 processor paired with an Altera Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). Formerly codenamed 'Tunnel Creek' the new Atom processor is designed to be flexible and allow customers to customize designs and enable a quicker time-to-market, both of which should help lower development costs. In addition, the new processor offers board space savings and better inventory control due to the single package, as well as a simplified manufacturing flow and single vendor support through Intel.
“Our customers’ needs are continually evolving and they look to Intel to provide leading-edge products and technologies that will help them differentiate and compete in the markets they serve,” said Doug Davis, Intel vice president, general manager, Embedded and Communications Group, Intel Corporation. “Our new configurable Atom series helps to address these customer needs and provides greater flexibility with a simplified product choice, through one vendor.”
OEM Support
Original Equipment Manufacturers can target embedded device market segments by using the Atom E600C for a wide range of standard and user-defined I/O interfaces, high-speed connectivity, memory interfaces and process acceleration. Intel offers a 7 year-long-life-cycle manufacturing support as well as industrial and commercial temperature options. Kontron, a leading embedded computing technology solutions manufacturer, has Atom processor E600C-based prototype boards available now, with full production beginning in the second quarter of 2011.
“Because of the FPGA programming capabilities within the single-package of the Intel Atom E600C device --we are offering more than a board –we are offering services which provides our customers with a complete system that Kontron has configured with unique I/O and application acceleration to meet their specific and unique needs," said Norbert Hauser, Vice President, Marketing at Kontron.
The Intel Atom processors E665CT, E645CT, E665C, and E645C are scheduled to be available within 60 days. The E625CT and E625C are on track to be available in the first quarter of 2011.
