Types of Centrino Processors

Intel Centrino is a brand name for a computer processing system.laptop in blue screen.closeup image by Olaru Radian-Alexandru from Fotolia.com

Intel Centrino processor technology is not an actual processor, but a computer processing system designed for mobile computing and wireless networks. The system, which includes a processing core, chipset and wireless connectivity, is designed to enhance mobile performance and multitasking ability with longer battery life. Intel introduced the Centrino name in 2003. In January 2010, Intel Centrino became the brand name for the company's latest group of wireless products.

Pentium M Systems

The first Centrino system, launched in 2003, featured a Pentium M processor running at 1.6-gigahertz, an 855 chipset and an Intel Pro/Wireless 2100 Network Connection capable of communication at 11 megabytes per second. Early Centrino-equipped laptop computers were priced at $2,500 to $3,300. The Pentium M systems went through several generations under various code names like Banias, Dothan and Sonoma with successive core, chipset and wireless improvements.

The current system, which uses an Intel Core Duo 2 processor T2700 chipset, shows performance gains of up to 50 percent over other systems with a minimum 3-megabyte smart cache and 1066 front side bus, according to Intel. The company said the system's integrated Wi-Fi delivers five times the speed of other systems when connected to a Wireless N home network and compresses high definition video up to 90 percent faster with its integrated graphics processing.

VPro adds business functions to the Intel Centrino system. It allows remote management and offers secure network protocols. Intel says the system's reliability reduces hardware and software problems and enables faster hardware and software inventory.

The Intel Centrino 2 platform was introduced in 2008. With up to a six-megabyte smart cache, the latest generation of the Intel Centrino 2 system features an Intel Core 2 Duo processor T9600 and Mobile Intel GM45 Express chipset. The system includes integrated Intel Turbo Boost and faster HD video encoding. To extend battery life, the system is equipped with Intel Intelligent Power Capability and Deep Power Down Technology. WiMAX can be added so users can take advantage of the fastest wireless networks.

Adding VPro to the Intel Centrino 2 processing system equips the system for business use with faster wireless connectivity and longer battery life. VPro streamlines the management of computers across wide networks. Security is built into the hardware so the system is protected even when the computer is off or the software is disabled.