While we wait for full tablet and smartphone implementations of the Tegra 2, dual-core Cortex A9-based CPU, NuFront have been working on a high-end implementation aimed at every-day computing.
The NuSmartâ„¢ 2816 Computer System Chip is testing in various versions up to 2Ghz. Average power drain (not idle, not TDP) is 2W which puts it in the same envelope as a 1.6Ghz Z6xx Atom CPU (TDP 3.7W)
At a demonstration of the CPU we watched hi-def movies and Android running smoothly but were left with the impression that this chip would work better with a slick desktop-style operating system. In terms of raw power you’re looking at a netbook/nettop style experience although without the possibility of Windows desktop operating systems, it will need some strong marketing and targeting to slightly tighter niches.
The final versions of the NuFront 2816 are expected soon with products following up in Asia shortly after that. We’ll be very interested to see if someone can build on the smartbook theme with a super-light Ubuntu-based solution. Given that Android isn’t ready for these devices, the Ubuntu solution could be better.
Press release PDF is available here.
ARMS A9 goes to 2Ghz in Nufront's new desktop-targeted CPU http://bit.ly/9nWHgi
ARM’s A9 goes to 2Ghz in NuFront CPU Targeting the Desk.: Read more …
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Could be we get to see meego on them, tho i am unsure if there is anyone but Nokia working on a ARM build of it.
i wonder what prices we can expect also. Would be fun if this found its way onto some of the smaller motherboard standards so that it could be used by system builders as drop in replacements for x86 boards.
this may indeed be interesting times ;)
Well, as long as there are open source drivers, you can build and run any flavor of linux (including Meego and Android). And then, there are many packages (apps) prebuilt for ARM, it’s far from exotic.
The low level part usually requires most of the initial work, but for custom environments like Meego (new UI, related tools, app store and initial customized apps), high level demands a lot more, and is not specific to the CPU.
MeeGo is being developed with both ARM and x86 in mind ready for the smartphone / smartbook platforms.
There is already an ARM version which has been demo’d on a smartphone, hit up YouTube for it.
This looks great, however, i cannot get why they are still so big? I mean, this small motherboard should soon be fitted with velcro behind your 17″ screen and ultra short cables.
Apple does one thing good, and its sadly design. their iMacs just gives you one box less around your desktop..
D
i guess they used a existing case and form factor (probably something itx) for ease of demoing and prototyping. There are however already itx cases that can be attached to the wall mount points found on the back of most tv and screens these days.
ARM’s A9 goes to 2Ghz in NuFront CPU Targeting the Desk. http://is.gd/fki3k
Wow – Fuel for fire? Oracle wants a chip company – I’d consider arm too “weak” against x86 but a highly parallel version of this may be able to handle their database needs.
@daniel – I’d prefer an ITX case anyday to an iMac, but still – it’s just a demo ;)