VIAs first Nano Quad core processor

A few months back VIA released a Nano dual core processor. Now a quad core version is on its way. They achieved this by combining two of their dual core nano processors. Although not the most efficient approach when compared to a native quad core design, it makes the process a lot simpler meaning these quad core chips could be emptying our pockets a lot quicker than you might think.

The spec. sheet is rather impressive with a 1.2GHz core clock and L1 cache of 128KB and a 4MB L2 cache. Performance wise the VIA core is noticeably quicker than the Brazos in a number of multi-threaded tests but in others they were fairly equal. It is also 10% faster than AMDs E-350 and a good 25% faster than dual core atom.

This all sounds great, but where will this new chip fit in? It may be quicker than a lot of current offerings but it’s TDP of 27.5W makes it unsuitable for netbooks and even ultra portable notebooks. It seems that it will be destined for the standard larger notebooks and SFF PCs.