Intel has a bold goal: to raise computers performance by 10x and to cut computers power consumption by 10x.

In order to show that they are going in that direction, Otellini presented a handtop prototype running at only 0.5 W. Intel’s CEO believes that this kind of product will reach the market by the end of this decade.

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Figure 5: Paul Otellini with a 0.5 W handtop prototype.

Intel’s goal for laptops is to have a battery that lasts at least 8 hours with the computer running at its full speed and using all its features. In this IDF Intel has shown a progress in this arena, with the release of a new 2.9 Ah (Ampère-hour) battery by Panasonic, a 30% capacity increase over the simpler batteries found in the market today, which are of 2.2 Ah. This new battery will allow the manufacturing of 72 W/h battery packs and should reach the market next year.

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Figure 6: Comparison between rechargeable batteries.

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Figure 7: Battery pack using the new 2.9 Ah batteries from Panasonic.