In a move that could be aimed at the gPC, Intel is preparing its Atom (aka Diamondville) processors to power fanless desktops that should cost in the area between $199 and $250 for a “basic” configuration.  Intel says these desktops are only to be used for basic tasks like viewing standard-definition DVDs, using office applications and browsing the web.

Intel says the Atom processors do not have the power to view high-definition DVDs.  I’m a bit confused as to the difference between a “standard” definition and “high” definition DVD; perhaps high-definition DVD refers to Blu-Ray discs, if that’s the case then that’s acceptable.

Intel general manager for the Atom platform, Noury Al-Khaledy said these desktops will likely serve as second computers in developed countries and as primary computers in developing countries.

According to PCWorld these systems are capable of running Windows Vista Starter, Windows XP or Linux.  PC manufacturers can decide which operating system to install and how to set the prices.  The version with Windows Vista Starter will only be sold in developing countries and Intel wants to push Linux with the “Atom” desktops.

The company is using single-core Diamondville chips in low-cost ($250 to $300) notebooks and may use a dual-core version of Diamondville in desktops.

Atom processors have been designed from the ground up and are not based off Celeron or the Core 2 Duo processors.  Intel makes it clear that these processors are not aimed at “people who need more computing power such as gamers and office workers.”

I’ll give Intel some credit here but these systems are likely to appeal only to people in developing countries or price sensitive consumers looking to buy their first computer.

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Entry was posted on Wednesday, March 26th, 2008 at 2:02 pm under Intel, Notebook, Technology.

Read more entries by Jonathan Schlaffer.
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