The design can have users ‘slotting in' an entire computer
worth of capability into their smart TV or fridge
This year
at CES, Intel demonstrated a device that aims to offer an enhanced experience
in the connected home space. Called the Intel Compute Card, this is a new
modular computing platform that makes it possible to literally carry an entire
PC in your wallet. Even though the product unveiled was an early prototype, the
company states that it is slated to go on sale by mid-2017.
What does it look like?
The Intel Compute Card is a small (95 mm x 55 mm x 5 mm) credit-card shaped
slab that includes the primary elements of a complete computer - CPU, GPU, RAM,
storage, and wireless connectivity.
What does it do? The inherent feature of computers and laptops is that
they can be upgraded with new technology that keeps them from getting outdated
too quickly. But what about your refrigerator or television set? These
appliances could get obsolete super quick, especially now that they are going
to have some sort of Internet connectivity and computing power in them. With this
device, Intel wants to start making it easy to upgrade those bulky white goods,
in an effort to transform the way computing and connectivity can be integrated
into such appliances. Such a platform is also likely to boost the uptake of an
IoT deployment.
The company stated that device
manufacturers will soon build a slot for the Compute Card into their devices,
and then select the relevant features that fit their needs. There are a range
of processors available for the card, including the 7th generation (Kaby Lake)
Intel Core processors. The Compute Card will connect to devices through a
standard USB Type-C connection. However, the card uses different variant of
USB-C port called ‘USB-C plus extension' to interface with the systems it is
plugged into. Other connectivity standards integrated into the card include USB
Type-A, PCIe, HDMI and a DisplayPort, making it possible to exchange data with
other devices and implement products with embedded screens - smart fridges and
washing machines for example. At the moment, the company hasn't released the
list of full specifications, but they have revealed that they have commenced
working with partners including Dell, HP, Lenovo and Sharp to make this product
a reality.
Source:DNA-10th January,2017
