[Reprinted from NetbookTech] AMD took the wraps off their “Yukon” platform tonight with the introduction of the new Athlon Neo processor, ATI Radeon X1250 integrated graphics and optional ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3410 discrete graphics. With this new platform, AMD aims to claim the space between low-end netbooks and expensive ultra-portable notebook PCs – basically inexpensive 12 inch notebooks that are more powerful than netbooks yet cheaper than current ultra-portables often powered by the more powerful and more expensive Intel Core 2 Duo ULV processor.

According to Chris Cloran, corporate vice president, client division, AMD:

“In introducing the AMD ultrathin notebook platform, AMD enables balanced PC performance, including the option of advanced graphics and video for true HD entertainment, all in an affordable, ultrathin notebook, bringing consumers uncompromised mobility.”

AMD claims the Athlon Neo processor platform will enable:

• Smooth 1080p HD playback
• Realistic 3D graphics with the optional ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3410 Premium graphics
• HDMI and DVI outputs

Features of the Athlon Neo processor include:

• Processor package measuring 27 x 27 mm and a low profile of 2.5 mm
• AMD PowerNow! Technology – dynamically switches performance states (processor core voltage and operating frequency) based on processor performance requirements
• AMD Digital Media XPress with support for SSE, SSE2, SSE3 and MMX instructions
• 64 bit processor
• Compatible with Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, Windows XP Professional, Windows XP Home Edition, Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Linux, and Windows Vista

The Athlon Neo processor will be available initially in a 1.6GHz model (Model number MV-40) manufactured on a 65nm process and featuring a 512MB L2 cache.

Should we expect to find the Athlon Neo processor in future netbook systems? That’s always a possibility but keep in mind that the Neo has a larger footprint (Neo’s 27 x 27 mm vs. the Atom’s 22 x 22 mm footprint) and thermal envelope (Neo’s 15 watt thermal envelope vs. the Atom’s 2.5 watt thermal envelope) than the Intel Atom processor making it a more ideal processor for larger platforms like the 12 inch ultra-portable notebook.

From a performance perspective, PC Magazine claims the Athlon Neo should deliver 2.5 times the performance of a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor and the Intel GMA 950 graphics platform. 

[Check out the press release]

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