Intel's Braswell processors represent a significant leap forward in low-power computing. These System-on-Chip (SoC) designs, built on the 14nm manufacturing process, offer impressive performance in a compact and energy-efficient package. Let's dive into what makes Braswell tick and why it matters for budget-conscious consumers and manufacturers alike.
The Braswell Basics
Braswell processors, introduced in March 2015, are the successors to Intel's Bay Trail lineup. They're designed with versatility in mind, powering a wide range of devices:
- Entry-level tablets
- Netbooks and nettops
- Low-end desktop systems
- Ultra-mobile devices
- Embedded systems
At the heart of Braswell is the Airmont microarchitecture, which leverages Intel's industry-leading tri-gate transistor technology. This combination results in chips that deliver solid performance while sipping power.
Key Features and Specifications
- Architecture: x86-64 (64-bit)
- Core Count: 2 to 4 cores
- Base Clock: 1.04 GHz to 1.60 GHz
- Burst Clock: Up to 2.64 GHz
- Memory Support: Up to 8 GB DDR3L-1600
- Graphics: 8th generation LP GPU (12 or 16 execution units)
- GPU Clock: 320-400 MHz base, up to 740 MHz burst
- Manufacturing Process: 14nm
- TDP: 4-6.5 watts (varies by model)
Braswell Brands: Pentium, Celeron, and Atom
Intel offers Braswell processors under several familiar brand names:
Pentium:
- 4 cores
- 1.6 GHz base clock
- 2 MB L2 cache
- HD Graphics 405
Celeron:
- 2 or 4 cores
- 1.04-1.6 GHz base clock
- HD Graphics 400
Atom x5 (for embedded systems):
- 4 cores
- 1.04-2.0 GHz clock range
- 5W TDP
Braswell vs. Haswell: A Quick Comparison
While both are Intel designs, Braswell and Haswell target different market segments:
- Manufacturing Process: Braswell (14nm) vs. Haswell (22nm)
- Core Count: Braswell (2-4) vs. Haswell (2-18)
- Target Market: Braswell (low-power, budget) vs. Haswell (mainstream to high-performance)
- Instruction Set Support: Braswell (more limited) vs. Haswell (broader range)
Why Braswell Matters
Braswell processors strike an impressive balance between performance and power efficiency. They offer:
- Improved Battery Life: Perfect for mobile devices and always-on systems
- Fanless Designs: Enables silent, compact form factors
- Cost-Effective: Brings capable computing to budget-friendly devices
- Versatility: Powers a wide range of devices from tablets to mini-PCs
Conclusion
Intel's Braswell processors may not be the fastest chips on the block, but they excel in their niche. By delivering respectable performance in an ultra-efficient package, Braswell enables a new generation of affordable, long-lasting, and capable devices. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly laptop, a silent mini-PC, or an embedded system, Braswell has you covered.