CES 2011: AMD Fusion APU era begins

AMD, at Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2011, launched a new class of accelerated processor that combines with strong compute capabilities - the AMD Fusion family of accelerated processing units (APUs) in a single die design. It features multi-core CPU (x86) technology, a powerful DirectX11-capable discrete-level graphics and parallel processing engine, a dedicated high-definition video acceleration block, and a high-speed bus that speeds data across the differing types of processor cores within the design.

New generations of desktop, notebook and HD netbooks are now available based on AMD Fusion APUs at affordable price points, the vendors said. Tablets and embedded designs based on AMD Fusion APUs are expected be available later in the first quarter of 2011. The new range of product features include stutter-free HD video playback, breakthroughs in computational horsepower to handle the most demanding applications, DirectX 11-capable graphics and all-day battery life.

AMD expects leading manufacturers Acer, Asustek Computer, Dell, Fujitsu, Hewlett-Packard (HP), Lenovo, Micro-Star International (MSI), Samsung Electronics, Sony and Toshiba to announce plans to deliver AMD Fusion APU-based systems.

The 2011 low power platform (Brazos) enhances the everyday computing experience and is available beginning today in two APU variations: E-series and C-series. These APUs feature the new x86 CPU core codenamed Bobcat. Bobcat is AMD's first new x86 core since 2003.

The 2011 mainstream platform is primarily intended for performance and mainstream notebooks and mainstream desktops. It will feature the 32nm A-series Llano APU, which includes up to four x86 cores and a DirectX 11-capable discrete-level GPU, and is scheduled to ship in the first half of 2011 and appear in products mid-year, AMD said.

Source: Company, compiled by Digitimes, January 2011