Intel to push development of Mini-ITX form factor mini PCs, say sources
Intel plans to push the market for mini PCs by promoting sales of motherboards based on the Mini-ITX form factor developed by VIA Technologies, starting in the second quarter of this year, according to sources at Taiwan motherboard makers.
According to Intel's roadmap, the Mini-ITX will be one of the form factors for the platforms based on entry-level processors, and Intel will also recommend that PC makers use Mini-ITX motherboards for the production of small- form-factor (SFF) PCs, the sources indicated.
Intel also recommends the use of SIS662 integrated chipsets from Silicon Integrated Systems (SiS) for the production of Mini-ITX motherboards, the sources revealed
Although currently mini PCs are available from a number of companies, including AOpen, Shuttle and Acer, production of those SFF PCs are rather limited due to a lack of industry standards, the sources noted.
Wen-chi Chen, president and CEO of VIA Technologies, also touted the merits of the Mini-ITX form factor for the development of mini PCs and welcomed all PC makers to join the Mini-ITX club to expand the market size.
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