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Semiconductor industry

Microsoft Unveils New SoC Processor for Xbox 360 250GB Slim

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Microsoft's latest development aims to counter the market threat from AMD's Bulldozer and Bobcat processor technology, by introducing a new SoC (System-on-chip) processor for its Xbox 360 250GB Slim Kinect-ready model. The processor, manufactured using IBM/GlobalFoundries' 45nm process, integrates CPU, GPU, memory, and I/O logic onto a single silicon. This innovative design promises better power efficiency, reduced heat generation, and smaller motherboard and power supply unit sizes. With a tri-core CPU, ATI GPU, and dual-channel memory controller, the SoC is expected to provide a competitive edge in the gaming market.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new SoC processor for Xbox 360 250GB Slim is designed to counter AMD's Bulldozer and Bobcat processor technology.
  • The processor has been manufactured using IBM/GlobalFoundries' 45nm process, making it a desktop-class processor.
  • The processor combines CPU, GPU, memory, and I/O logic onto a single silicon, allowing for better power efficiency and reduced heat generation.
  • The tri-core CPU, ATI GPU, and dual-channel memory controller provide a competitive edge in the gaming market.
  • The SoC has a total of 372 million transistors, which is a significant reduction compared to modern GPUs and processors.
  • The new processor is expected to be cheap to manufacture, reducing production costs and making it a more attractive option for gamers.
  • Microsoft has guaranteed that the new processor will not cause any compatibility issues with existing Xbox 360 consoles.

Statistics:

  • The new SoC processor contains approximately 372 million transistors.
  • The processor has a tri-core CPU and an ATI GPU.
  • The manufacturing process used is IBM/GlobalFoundries' 45nm process.
  • The SoC is designed to meet the growing demand for energy-efficient gaming consoles.
  • The reduced heat generation and smaller motherboard and power supply unit sizes are expected to improve overall gaming performance.

Sources:

  • Think Digit website
  • Microsoft (press release)

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