Unlocking Word
Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in
today’s article.
1.
threshold (n.) [thresh-ohld] – the point that must be exceeded to produce a result or
response
Example: The new device needs some changes to
reach its electrical threshold.
2. round-the-clock
(adj.) [round-thuh-klok] – at all times; throughout the day and night
Example: There are lots of round-the-clock
stores in the city.
3. emanate
(v.) [em-uh-neyt] – to give out or give off
Example: The smoke that emanates from cars and
factories largely contributes to global warming.
4. flux
(n.) [fluhks] – a constant or frequent change
Example: Prices of goods are in constant flux
due to changes in oil price.
5. stepping
stone (n.) [step-ping] – a situation that assists progress towards achieving a goal
Example: Learning from failure is an important
stepping stone in achieving one’s dreams.
Article
Read the text below.
Last September, Intel researchers released a new
voltage processor that can run at super low energy.
This new processor, called “Claremont,” operates
near threshold voltage, the voltage at which transistors turn
on and conduct electricity. As such, its efficiency is increased while
lowering energy consumption. In addition, this new invention does not
overheat easily, making it advantageous for devices that run round-the-clock. Intel demonstrated
the power of the new technology through an experiment in which a PC with a
Linux OS was powered up using only a solar cell the size of a postage stamp.
With very low power requirement, the new
technology can still be improved to create “zero-power” devices that can run
using energy emanated in our
surroundings, such as vibrations and wireless signals.
As devices become more mobile and lightweight,
energy efficiency becomes a major concern of manufacturers. Currently, Intel
faces tough competition with ARM, a low-power processor rumored to replace
Intel as processor in Apple laptops and desktops. To catch up, Intel provided
new improvements, such as Oak Trail processors and the Tri-Gate 3-D "Ivy
Bridge" transistor, which is 30% more efficient than current processors.
Although “Claremont” shows high efficiency, it
has problems with inaccurate performance, especially during electricity fluxes. Despite this, Intel
researcher Sriram Vangal hopes that the new concept will be a stepping stone for future processor
innovations.
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Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion
A
·
What
would be the advantages and disadvantages of investing in these innovations?
·
Do
you think people will patronize these devices? Why or why not?
Discussion
B
·
What
do you think would happen if there was no competition among companies?
·
If
you own a company, how would you be competitive?