We have all been wondering for some time now when we’re likely to see those next-generation notebooks that will benefit from Intel's dual-core Atom processor. Now, we finally have an estimated timeframe. According to major systems makers, netbooks will most probably not take advantage of the performance level provided by the dual-core Atom processors until sometime in mid-2009.

 

Leading chip maker Intel has already released a dual-core version of its Atom CPU, but basically, the 330 model has been built for desktop computer systems. With the same clock speed as its single core counterpart, the Atom 330 has a higher consumption level of 8W, compared with only 2.5W on the netbook-friendly Atom 270. Given its power requirements, this CPU won't end up in any portable computer system – however, that doesn't mean netbook users won't be able to benefit from the performance provided by a small-sized, low-power dual core CPU.

 

As a matter of fact, as both ASUS' CEO, Jerry Shen, and MSI's Andy Tang have suggested, dual-core Atom-powered netbooks won't be available on the market until sometime in the second half of next year. ASUS' president, Jerry Shen, was not able to elaborate on whether the upcoming Atom would be suitable for other small-sized computer devices, but he did confirm that the company planned to release a dual-core Eee PC, as soon as Intel decided to ship the processors in question.

 

Andy Tang, however, revealed in an interview with Laptop Magazine that, “Intel is holding off on the mobile version of the dual-core Atom processor. I don’t think we will see availability of that processor until the second half of 2009.”

 

The dual-core Atom processor is expected to deliver an improved performance level, and will be based on Intel's next-generation core, codenamed “Pineview,” which will feature a DMI (Direct Media Interface) bus, instead of the standard FSB. This feature, which is also going to be made available on the upcoming Nehalem desktop processors, is meant to connect the processor to its I/O chip.