Specifications of Core i5-560UM and i7-680UM mobile CPUs

This month, we published specifications of two new ultra-low voltage (ULV) microprocessors for mid-class ultra-thin notebooks - Core i3-380UM and Core i5-470UM. Another two high-performance ULV microprocessors were revealed earlier this year in a leaked Intel roadmap. According to the roadmap, the two models, Core i5-560UM and Core i7-680UM, are planned for the 4th quarter 2010.

All latest dual-core Intel mobile microprocessors, and the i5-560UM and i7-680UM mobile processors are not an exception, are built on 32nm enhanced Nehalem microarchitecture. Standard features of these CPUs are two cores with three-level cache architecture, integrated memory and graphics controllers, and Direct Media Interface. Core i5 and i7 are considered high-performance families, that have the most complete feature-set. They support basic technologies, like Execute disable bit and SSE extensions, intermediate features, like HyperThreading and Turbo Boost, and advanced ones, including AES instructions and Trusted Execution technology. Core i5-560UM has 1.33 GHz core frequency, which is on a par with current top ULV model Core i7-660UM. Turbo Core feature on the 560UM may raise the frequency to more respectable 2.13 GHz. The processor has 3 MB level 3 cache.

The Core i7-680UM has a few advantages over the 560UM. First, it is clocked at 1.46 GHz, or 133 MHz faster than the 560UM. For ultra low-power processors with fairly low frequency this difference could be noticeable. Second, the Core i7-680UM has 400 MHz higher maximum Turbo Boost frequency. Finally, the i7 processor adds 1 MB of level 3 cache.

The Core i5-560UM and Core i7-680UM CPUs are produced in micro-FCBGA package. As a rule, this type of package is soldered on a motherboard and cannot be replaced without special equipment. The i5-560UM has SLBSN and CN80617005190AH S-Spec and OEM part numbers. The Core i7-680UM is manufactured with CN80617004860AA part number, and SLBST S-Spec number. The processors are available for pre-order in UK online shops with prices ranging from 168 GBP - 200 GBP ($265 - $316 USD) excluding VAT for the Core i5-560UM part, and 204 GBP - 250 GBP ($322 - 395 USD) excluding VAT for the Core i7-680UM. Exact release date for these microprocessors is not known. The leaked Intel roadmap placed them in the 4th quarter. There were also rumors about possible launch at the end of September. Putting together information from different sources, like ETA for mobile processors and notebooks, we believe that the CPUs will be launched no later than October 2010.

Intel Core i5-560UM processor will power Fujitsu LIFEBOOK T580 tablet PC. The T580 will utilize graphics controller, integrated on the chip, and will come with 10.1" display, 128 GB SSD or up to 500 GB hard disk drive, and up to 8 GB of memory. One charge of 6-cell Li-ion battery will be sufficient for up to 8 hours of work. The i5-560UM CPU will also be offered in Acer TravelMate 8172 laptop along with Core i5-4xx, Core i3, and Pentium models. The TravelMate 8172 system will make use of integrated Intel graphics, and will include 11.6" HD display, up to 640 GB or larger hard drive, and up to 4 GB of RAM. Using 6-cell Li-ion battery pack, the notebook can last up to 6 hours on one charge.

We couldn't locate any announced notebooks with the Core i7-680UM microprocessor.