Atom: Intel's new chips

Apparently deriving the name from the Physics term's connotation of extreme minuteness, Intel announced Sunday that is has chosen the name "Atom" for a new family of ultra-small chips.

The "Atom" name will be applied to Intel's new family of chips with two members that are expected to be released later this quarter.

One of which--previously know as Silverthorne--is a low-power mobile processor designed for use in next generation of mobile Internet devices. Featuring a state-of-the-art low-power state, this chip essentially shuts down in between processing tasks, thus limiting power consumption.
Another one, code-named Diamondville, is a single-core processor for ultra-low-cost laptops. Diamondville is a tiny 45-nanometer processor that involves a design simpler than standard Intel processors. Intel refers to the low-cost notebook design as "netbook" and estimates the pricing for these devices will go as low as $250.

On the other hand, Intel has rebranded its Menlow chip as the Centrino Atom--a low-power companion chip with integrated graphics and a wireless radio. It also features thinner and lighter design.