Intel looking into Atom CPUs for NAS devices

Intel is apparently planning on releasing a new series of Atom-based system-on-chip (SoC) processor for the network-attached storage (NAS) and entry-level servers.

As the years passed, NAS have seen some new technologies including a more independent system of its own. Obviously, users were and are looking into smaller sizes, with a smaller power draw while continuing with high-performance processing cores, so that NAS devices can take on tasks such as bit-torrent downloads etc.

Helped by the low market demand for the netbook-based Atom CPU, Intel decided to shift their aim and go for the NAS market with the new Atom CPU, codenamed Centerton, that will be based on the 32nm process and will feature a SoC design.

Through the use of the slim architecture and low power consumption, Intel is planning on targeting various performance and power-draw segments.

Furthermore, in addition to the 32nm Centerton (Saltwell) CPUs that should see the light in the second quarter of 2012, Intel is also planning to release  22nm Silvermont-based Atom processors in 2013 as well as 14nm Airmont-based Atom parts in 2014.

Source