In its continuous competition with Intel, AMD is launching a new dual-chip processor which comes to complete their impressive lineup of low-power embedded processors.

AMD calls this particular chip Geode LX 800@0.9W; the processor is based on the x86 architecture and optimized to be used on devices like mobile phones and other handheld devices. Other examples of products that would benefit from the AMD Geode LX processor's capabilities include HDTVs, IP set-top boxes, thin clients, point-of-sale kiosks and Windows-powered tablet PCs.


Designed for low-energy, fanless applications, the latest Geode LX800, unveiled today, runs on just 0.9 watts of power and has been described by AMD as giving "the industry's highest performance per watt."

The chip was born out of AMD's acquisition of National Semiconductor's (NYSE: NSM) Geode unit in 2003, when there was some confusion about AMD's embedded strategy, which also included its Alchemy chip based on MIPS architecture.

"As x86 devices get more powerful and more efficient, they can get smaller and still take advantage of some of the tens of thousands of applications already written," Dittmer said. "Designers are challenged to add new features to differentiate themselves and their products in a very fast-moving, competitive environment. If you use x86 technology in smaller devices, you don't have to write new applications and operating systems."

Both AMD and Intel are keen on popularizing their x86 chips in products other than PCs, especially in the consumer electronics market.

The AMD Geode™ LX 800@0.9W processor and AMD Geode CS5536 companion device chipset is available at $45 in 10,000 unit shipments. Slower speed variants are also available.