Dell is now offering Inspiron notebooks with Intel “Penryn” chips as an optional configuration. This is the first time that Dell has included the 45-nanometer processor as an option in the consumer-oriented Inspiron line, notes CNet.
An Inspiron 1720 with a T9300 (2.5GHz, 6MB cache) processor, 17-inch (1440×900) screen, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100, 2GB shared dual channel DDR2 memory, and a 250GB SATA hard drive (5400RPM) is priced at $1,299.
An Inspiron 1420 with a T8300 (2.4GHz, 3MB cache) processor, 14.1-inch (1280×900) screen, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100, 2GB shared dual channel DDR2 memory, and a 160GB SATA hard drive (5400RPM) is priced at $1,024.
For an extra $200, a 256MB Nvidia GeForce 8600M GT video card is available with the 1720. On the 1420, a 128MB Nvidia GeForce 8400M GS is available for an additional $100.
Unfortunately, new laptop architecture to go with the new Penryn chips won’t happen until Computex Taipei 2008, which runs from June 3-7.
That’s when Intel launches it’s fifth generation Centrino mobile platform, to be branded as Centrino 2.
Today’s Intel laptop architecture of choice is code named “Santa Rosa”. The new Centrino 2 will be based on the “Montevina” platform which provides improved WiMAX and graphics support.
Intel is set to launch the Centrino 2 platform in Computex Taipei 2008 along with six 45nm notebook CPUs, all with a 1066MHz FSB. Core speeds will range between 2.26-3.06GHz and prices between US$209-851 in 1000-unit tray quantities.Intel will then launch seven 45nm SFF (small form factor) notebook CPUs, similar to those used in Apple’s MacBook Air and soon other ultra-portable notebooks, in the third quarter of this year.
There’s always something. Wikipedia has a rundown on Centrino evolution.
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