Via chipsets has long been a familiar brand in the world of motherboard solutions for both the PC and mobile computers. And to help improve on their line of chipsets, Via has unveiled the VX855 chipset which allows HD video playback on mini-laptops by taking the computing-intensive task away from the core processor.

The VIA VX855 Media System Processor chipset integrates a DDR2 memory controller, a 400/800-MHz front side bus processor interface, and input/output capabilities in a single chip. The product supports VIA’s Nano, C7, and Eden processor lines.

The chipset makes high-definition video playback possible on mini-laptops, also called netbooks, by taking the computing-intensive task away from the core processor. The hardware supports a variety of video standards, including H.264, MPEG-2/4, VC-1, and WMV9.

The 1-inch-square chipset combined with one of VIA’s processors uses 46% less space on a motherboard than competing twin-chip, core logic implementations, according to VIA. In addition, the VIA package has a 2.3-watt power envelope, which means it does not need a cooling fan. This enables system builders to design smaller and lighter portable PCs.

(Source) Information Week