Intel launches single chip processor for mobile phones

By Steve Malone

Posted on 10 Sep 2003 at 10:19

Chip giant Intel has unveiled the world's first single-chip processor for mobile phones using Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) wireless networks which will enable better broadband applications.

The company claims that EDGE technology sends and receives data between two to three times faster than existing GSM/GPRS (2.5G) networks.

The PXA800EF cellular processor, uses the same design as the PXA800F but with built in EDGE technology. It is based on Intel's 'Wireless Internet on a Chip' design which combines a number of previously discrete functions on a single piece of silicon. Intel says that this will enable manufacturers to cram even more functions onto a single device.

The PXA800EF has a built in processor running at 312MHz with 4Mb of integrated Flash memory and 512Kb of SRAM. The built in cellular processor also includes a 156MHz signal processor with 512Kb of
integrated Flash memory and 64Kb of SRAM.

Intel announced that the chip is available in sample volumes with bulk availability expected in Q1 2004. The Intel PXA800EF processor has a suggested list price of $29.15 in 100,000 unit quantities.