IDF Fall 2003: New Centrino chipset

 

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By Alun Williams

Posted on 18 Sep 2003 at 09:42

Intel has announced a new Centrino chipset, the 855GME. As well as a new graphics core and support for DDR-333 memory, it features Display Power Saving Technology (DPST).

Chipsets are one of the three parts of the Centrino technology package, along with built-in wireless networking support and the Pentium-M processor.

Previously, the Intel 855GM and Intel 855PM were the officially sanctioned chipsets supporting the Pentium-M, with the former providing integrated graphics capabilities (and featuring in 'value' Centrinos by saving on the need for third-party graphics support).

Now, the 855GME supercedes the 855GM.

The new chipset includes support for Direct 9X graphics, enables higher memory speeds when paired with DDR-333 memory, and provides 2D and 3D integrated graphics support.

The most interesting aspect of the new chipset, however, is its power management features.

DPST means it will manage display brightness and contrast, and actively dim the backlight whenever possible. Intel claims that this can reduce backlight power consumption by up to 25 per cent.

Power consumption can be further shaved by Dual-Frequency Graphics Technology (DFTG), which means that the graphics core can automatically adjust frequency when switching the machine from mains-supply to battery mode, and vice versa. This feature is end-user configurable.