IBM unveils new low-power chip technologies
16/10/2001

IBM unveils the first of a family of chips capable of ultra-low-power operation, providing a glimpse of the many innovative technologies the company has in the pipeline to reduce power consumption in electronic products.

Called the IBM PowerPC 405LP, the chip's innovations make it ideal for battery powered portable consumer electronic devices. The highly integrated system-on-chip includes unique circuitry to conserve power by shutting off portions when not in use, improving power efficiency in both active and standby modes.

It also includes special processing features to make voice recognition and data encryption software work more efficiently. This reduces power while helping to eliminate tiny keypads and reducing security concerns in portable products.

IBM has been a pioneer in building more powerful, efficient chips through the use of new materials, such as copper wiring, silicon-on-insulator (SOI) and low-k dielectrics. This product demonstrates the company's plans to help manufacturers conserve power through chip design techniques as well. IBM estimates this combination will lead to products that may consume ten times less power than today.