VIA announced today a CPU that requires a mere 1-Watt to operate, making it the world’s most efficient CPU according to VIA. The processor is called the Via Eden ULV processor and runs at 500MHz.

The new CPU is directly aimed at the embedded industry and has already gained wide industry adoption according to VIA. The processor has the full speed of a x86 CPU, but significantly cuts the power requirements typically associated with that type of performance.

The Eden is also compact measuring in at only 21mm x 21mm with a NanoBGA2 package. "Giving our customers the building blocks to create innovative systems and driving PC technology into new markets defines our 'Small is Beautiful' strategy," said Richard Brown, Vice President of Corporate Marketing, VIA Technologies, Inc. "With its performance, energy efficiency and compact size, our new VIA Eden ULV processor provides a way for embedded developers to add real value to their systems and push the market forward."

VIA says the CPU can be combined with the ultra compact VIA CX700/M system media processor to provide an all-in-one digital media chipset with a maximum operating power of only 3.5 watts and enabling complete systems to be constructed needing only 10 watts.

Via VIA