Configuration
Processor
The notebook is based on the latest revision of the Intel Centrino Duo platform codenamed Santa Rosa. It also utilizes a new Core 2 Duo processor, the T7300 model.
The CPU has a default clock rate of 2.0GHz and is equipped with 4MB of L2 cache. The FSB frequency is 800MHz. This Core 2 Duo model is the reasonable maximum for today’s office and home tasks.
Chipset and Memory
The platform is based on the Intel PM965 chipset. It is a discrete chipset and the Lenovo ThinkPad T61 uses a standalone graphics core. The rest of the chipset’s features are listed in the diagram.
Here is a list of differences between Intel’s new mobile chipset and its precursor i945PM:
- FSB frequency increased from 667 to 800MHz
- Variable FSB frequency (a kind of SpeedStep technology for the system bus)
- 6 instead of 4 PCI Express x1 lanes
- SATA-300 controller with support of 3 ports (the previous chipset offers two SATA-150 ports)
So, the changes are considerable, making this chipset an appealing choice. The developer has taken care of everything ?performance, power consumption and functionality. As for memory, the Intel PM965 supports the same maximum amount and frequency as the Intel 945PM, namely 4 gigabytes and DDR2-667 in single- or dual-channel mode.
Our sample comes with two DDR2-667 modules, 1GB each. This is the most optimal solution for a modern mobile system. A larger amount of memory is expensive and requires a 64-bit OS.
