Low-Power x86 CPU Adds Data Encryption And Multimedia Support

Sept. 15, 2003

The Eden ESP7000 processor, based on an x86-compatible core and the company's CoolStream architecture, also includes the company's PadLock data encryption engine and enhanced digital-media performance. The PadLock engine includes a random number generator, reducing the CPU overhead needed to support data-security applications. Due to the processor's low power consumption, it can be used in fanless entertainment, communications, commercial, and industrial applications. Housed in a low-profile thermally enhanced BGA package, the Eden ESP7000 consumes just 6 W, maximum, and typically only 1 W when running at a clock speed of 733 MHz. In volume, the Eden ESP7000 processor is priced at $85 each.

VIA Technologies Inc.www.viatech.com

About the Author

Dave Bursky

Technologist

Dave Bursky, the founder of New Ideas in Communications, a publication website featuring the blog column Chipnastics – the Art and Science of Chip Design. He is also president of PRN Engineering, a technical writing and market consulting company. Prior to these organizations, he spent about a dozen years as a contributing editor to Chip Design magazine. Concurrent with Chip Design, he was also the technical editorial manager at Maxim Integrated Products, and prior to Maxim, Dave spent over 35 years working as an engineer for the U.S. Army Electronics Command and an editor with Electronic Design Magazine.