Intel unveils Thunderbolt technologyCreated: 2/28/2011 12:29:08 PMOn Friday, Intel held a press conference to announce its new Thunderbolt technology, which many believe could revolutionize the computing world.
The new input/output technology has the ability to transfer data at “previously unheard-of speeds,” according to a PC Magazine article. The technology could also replace many current PC protocols, such as FireWire, HDMI, USB and more.
Thunderbolt uses existing DisplayPort and PCI-Express data protocols to offer users increased functionality and faster transfer speeds through a single port.
Recent reports believe the latest line of Apple’s MacBook Pro laptops will be the first to feature the Thunderbolt, previously known under the code name Light Peak.
While at first believed to feature optic cables, another PC Magazine article confirmed the technology will soon copper wiring initially. Copper will still allow the technology to reach 10 gigabits-per-second speeds. However, if Intel wants to upgrade the speeds to reach 100 Gbps - which Intel has declared its goal - in the future, fiber-optic cable is needed, PC Magazine relays.
Regarding Macs and Intel, a recent report found Apple’s newest operating system, Lion, will drop support for solo-based Intel Macs.
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