We can credit VIA for coming up with the Mini-ITX form factor, but according to DigiTimes, we might one day end up crediting Intel for its popularization. The Taiwanese website reports that Intel has introduced two Mini-ITX motherboards, which are code-named Elko and Fly Creek.
Elko is based on the older 945GC chipset, DigiTimes explains, while the Fly Creek model features a state-of-the-art Intel G35 Express chipset with GMA X3500 graphics. The site quotes Intel Channel Platforms Group General Manager Tom Rampone as saying the move is a response to increased market demand for PCs with smaller form factors. Rampone claimed current "nettops"—small, low-cost notebooks like the Asus Eee PC—"don't meet the requirements for entry-level or multimedia markets."
In fact, Rampone went so far as to say Intel "expects Mini-ITX to replace Micro-ATX and become the mainstream for future low-cost, entry-level and multimedia PC markets." Such a change would make sense, since Mini-ITX is substantially smaller than Micro-ATX and looks like an ideal match for cheap, low-power processors like Intel's Atom.
- Mac Pros could emit carcinogenic fumes[128]
- Microsoft prolongs XP downgrades to July 2009?[85]
- Intel's top-of-the-line Core i7 could be a screamer[84]
- 'Asset smart' unfurls, AMD spins off foundry business[76]
- Apple to make next MacBooks with space-age process?[75]
- Apple threatens to shut iTunes if artist royalties increase[58]
- TR Forum Tidings: What do you look for in PC games?[58]