AMD Details Next-Generation Platform for Notebooks

AMD disclosed more details of “Puma,” its next-generation open platform for notebook computing.
rnum=Math.round(Math.random() * 100000);
document.write('');


The “Puma” platform is expected to build on the successful launches of the AMD M690 mobile chipset and 65nm process-based AMD Turion 64 X2 dual-core mobile technology in April and May 2007, respectively.
The key technologies that comprise “Puma” are AMD’s next-generation notebook processor, codenamed “Griffin”, matched with the next-generation AMD “RS780” mobile chipset. Notebooks based on the “Puma” platform are expected to be available in the mid-2008 timeframe.
New notebook processing innovations in “Griffin” include: power optimized HyperTransport and memory controllers integrated in the processor silicon that operate on a separate power plane as the processor cores, thereby enabling the cores to go into reduced power states; dynamic performance scaling offers enhanced battery life with reduced power consumption through separate voltage planes enabling each core to operate at independent frequency and voltage; and power-optimized HyperTransport 3.0 with a more than tripling of peak I/O bandwidth, plus new power features including dynamic scaling of link widths.
Based on PCI Express Generation 2 and the HyperTransport 3.0 specifications,”RS780” is expected to raise the bar on the notebook computing experience by delivering significant new features such as: energy efficient high-definition multimedia support with the Unified Video Decoder; integrated multi-monitor support with DVI, HDMI and DisplayPortnative southbridge support for NAND flash with HyperFlash; and powerXpress for dynamic switching between integrated and discrete graphics to extend battery life.
“Through the combination of our recent processor and chipset launches and the Better by Design program, AMD is constantly establishing new heights of competitiveness in serving the needs of our notebook customers,” said Chris Cloran, vice president, AMD Notebook Division. “With the unveiling of the “Puma” mobile platform we’re sending a clear signal to the market that we intend to drive continued innovation in notebook computing in 2008 and beyond.”
With the launch of the “Puma” platform, AMD is taking important steps in system-level optimization through adding intelligence and increased coordination between the CPU, GPU and chipset. The “Puma” platform sets the stage for the next-wave of notebook processing innovation with silicon-level CPU/GPU integration through “Fusion”.