Designed for use in media-centric systems with current CPUs or the forthcoming 'Penryn' processors due later in the year, the 3 Series chipsets support PCI Express 2.0, Intel Turbo Memory, and 800MHz DDR2 and 1333MHz DDR3 memory.
Versions with integrated graphics support Vista's Aero interface along with HDMI output for HD DVD or Blu-ray playback without a more expensive video card. One version includes hardware support for Microsoft's DirectX 10.
Other features designed to appeal to media PC builders include support for up to six external drives, 7.1 audio, and Quiet System Technology for cooler, quieter running.
The G33 and P35 chipsets began shipping in April, and the others are due within 90 days.
"The Intel 3 Series chipsets lay the foundation for an exciting, media-rich experience for today's systems and those that arrive later this year," Intel executive vice president Sean Maloney said.
Maloney also used his soapbox at Computex to announce a collaboration between Intel and Asustek to produce a range of low-cost mobile PCs for the education market, with one model to sell for less than $US200.
For the other end of the market, a Intel Core 2 Extreme mobile processor will arrive during the third quarter. "The upcoming chip is targeted to be the company's highest-performing mobile dual-core processor that still includes energy-saving power features for notebook-friendly designs," Intel officials said.
Intel's Bearlake chipsets debut at Computex
Intel's 3 Series chipsets - codenamed 'Bearlake' - have arrived at Taiwan's Computex trade show.
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Stephen Withers
Stephen Withers is one of Australia¹s most experienced IT journalists, having begun his career in the days of 8-bit 'microcomputers'. He covers the gamut from gadgets to enterprise systems. In previous lives he has been an academic, a systems programmer, an IT support manager, and an online services manager. Stephen holds an honours degree in Management Sciences, a PhD in Industrial and Business Studies, and is a senior member of the Australian Computer Society.
