STACK #241 November 2024

INTEL INSIDER

TECH FEATURE

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The brains of your laptop just got a lot smarter. Intel has unleashed Lunar Lake, the next generation of its Core Ultra mobile processors, boasting better performance with incredible efficiency. Here’s what you need to know to tap into that power for work or play. Words Michael Irving INTEL INSIDER

What are Intel processors, and what do they do? Intel’s mobile processors are a System on a Chip (SoC) – basically, to save space in laptops and improve efficiency, all the major components are built into the one chip. That includes the Central Processing Unit (CPU), which handles all the “thinking” that the computer needs to do to complete the tasks it’s given, specifically running apps and programs. The Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) specialises in digital images and graphics, for faster gaming or creative projects, while the neural processing unit (NPU) is a recent addition that accelerates AI tasks. At the core Intel’s SoCs contain a number of separate “cores,” which basically act like mini CPUs. These come in two types: performance cores (P-cores) are more powerful, helping to churn through more intensive tasks, while efficiency cores (E-cores) handle less demanding background tasks while using less electricity. You’ll usually see the speeds of individual cores listed in gigahertz (GHz). They’ll each have a range, too – their standard operating speed, as well as a Max Turbo boost that can

be fired up whenever you need to squeeze some more power out of your computer. The name game Last year, Intel refreshed its SoC lineup with a new naming scheme: mainstream processors were designated Core 3, Core 5 and Core 7, while the premium high-end processors were named Core Ultra 5, Core Ultra 7 and Core Ultra 9. As you might expect, the processors get more powerful with higher numbers. That generation of the Core Ultra line was codenamed Meteor Lake, while this year’s is known as Lunar Lake.

What is Intel EVO? Some laptop models will be seen proudly sporting an Intel EVO badge. To earn that, the device has to pass specific performance requirements set by Intel, including speed, battery life, security, and connectivity. If you see EVO, it means you’re getting a superior user experience.

56 NOVEMBER 2024

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