Hitachi will launch a notebook PC based on Transmeta's Crusoe microprocessor in November, but the device will not be on sale in Europe.
vnunet.com, 07 Sep 2000
Hitachi will launch a notebook PC based on Transmeta's Crusoe microprocessor in November, but the device will not be on sale in Europe.
A spokeswoman for Hitachi confirmed that a Transmeta-based notebook would be launched in Japan and the US, "but we have no plans to sell the product in Europe", she said.
Hitachi, IBM, Gateway and Sony are the only companies to commit to launching products based on Transmeta's low power consumption Crusoe chip, which it claims prolongs the battery life in ultra lightweight computers.
Compaq said it is considering using the chip, whereas notebook specialist Toshiba said it has no current plans to include the chip in any of its products - even though it is an investor in Transmeta.
Crusoe enables lightweight notebooks to provide up to eight hours of battery life. It includes Transmeta's LongRun power management technology, which enables the processor to optimise its performance to the actual application it is running, while continually adjusting its speed and voltage so that it delivers the maximum battery life.
Transmeta said the ultra light notebook designs are also quieter, because the Crusoe chip does not require noisy fans to keep cool.
Hitachi has begun shipping a notebook PC in Japan based on Transmeta's Crusoe chip.
Fujitsu-Siemens will launch a notebook computer based on Transmeta's low-power Crusoe chip for the European market early next year.
Europe is facing a long wait for PCs featuring Transmeta's Crusoe chip, as first Hitachi and now Sony confirm they have no European launch plans.
Toshiba has poured cold water on Transmeta's claims about the low power consumption and heat generation of its Crusoe chip, despite the fact that it is an investor in the chip startup.
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