Nvidia Tegra “Computer-on-a-chip” announced

Nvidia today announced the Tegra “computers-on-a-chip”, designed for use in small computing devices, such as mobile internet devices (MIDs).

The Tegra features a graphics processor, media processor, system memory, peripherals and a central processor all in one ultra-low power chip, “smaller than a US dime”. Nvidia claims that its new platform delivers 10x the power efficiency of competition, enabling “over 100 hours audio and 10 hours HD video playback”.

Initially, the next generation mobile architecture will be available in two flavors: the Nvidia Tegra 600 and Tegra 650 Series. The Tegra 600 includes an ARM11 CPU at 700MHz, and supports high definition playback in 720p resolution. On the other side, the Tegra 650 comes with an 800MHz ARM11 and provides 1080p HD playback.

The both product will be used in Microsoft Windows Mobile and CE-based MIDs, and support Web 2.0 and social media applications, multi-standard audio formats, including AAC, AMR, WMA, and MP3, JPEG encode and decode acceleration, up to 12 megapixel camera, and dual display functionality. The Tegra includes HDMI, WSXGA+ LCD, SXGA CRT, and NTSC/PAL TV outputs.

According to the company, the first Nvidia Tegra 600/650 Series-based devices are expected to begin shipping in late 2008.