VIA Netbook

The Via Netbook refers to a group of netbooks made by different manufacturers which utilize the Via Nano Processorhttp://www.via.com.tw/en/products/processors/nano/. Many IT analysts believe the Via Nano processors offer advantages compared to the more conventional Intel Atom Processor. As examples, Samsung has launched a Via Netbook, with the launch of the Samsung NC20 and the Lenovo S12 was released in August, 2009.

Features and functions of the VIA processor arehttp://www.via.com.tw/en/products/processors/nano/:

1. World's most power-efficient out-of-order x86 architecture
2. Full support for 64-bit operating systems
3. High-performance superscalar processing
4. Most efficient speculative floating point algorithm
5. Advanced power and thermal management
6. Full CPU virtualization support
7. Leading-edge VIA PadLock™ hardware security features
8. Pin-to-pin compatibility provides natural upgrade path from other VIA processors

Some manufacturers view the VIA Nano processor as a viable alternative for netbooks. Samsung has just released the NC20, which is equipped with a particularly energy-efficient variant of the Nano chip. The benchmark tests presented here examine the VIA and Intel chips. Nvidia's Ion is not yet available, but is due to appear in April, 2009. http://reviews.zdnet.co.uk/hardware/components/0,1000001694,39613937,00.htm

The Lenovo IdeaPad S12 with the VIA Nano platform hovers in an interesting category. It’s a little more than an Atom-based netbook as far as power is concerned — perhaps closer to the CULV (consumer ultra-low voltage) range than anything else.

The price is absolutely wonderful for what you’re getting — at $429, it’s a solid deal for a well-built, relatively powerful netbook-style computer. http://www.crunchgear.com/2009/08/06/review-lenovo-ideapad-s12-netbook-with-via-nano-cpu/

"Don't spend the extra money on the Intel Atom version. This VIA Nano CPU runs up to 1.6Ghz (not 1.3GHz) just like the Atom. Battery life might be the only thing that the Atom version does better from what I hear but a solid 4+ hours is still good. One open memory slot on the bottom allows for an easy upgrade with DDR2 667 memory. The screen size/resolution is just right. I've seen the 10" netbooks and the screen/resolution are too small to work with for long periods of time. Keyboard feels nice. Plenty of hard drive space for netbook use. Be sure to use apps such as VLC media player and Google Chrome/Firefox for added performance. http://www.crunchgear.com/2009/08/06/review-lenovo-ideapad-s12-netbook-with-via-nano-cpu/