AMD adds to G-Series embedded line and upping services

Sets up new partner program to give training and support

AMD is rolling out three processors and adding partner services to its Embedded G-Series processor to boost demand for the Bobcat platform.

The company said that the chips will aim for the 'headless' embedded system market, targeting devices that require a sophisticated processor but do not operate with a monitor or input device. The aim of the new chips was to extend the Bobcat platform to a market that did not require the visual components of the platform.

"We know that the AMD Embedded G-Series APUs address a significant trend toward a high-performance visual component in many embedded systems, but there also remains a core market that can benefit from a stand-alone Bobcat-based CPU and we are responding to that need," said AMD embedded solutions director Buddy Broeker.

The Bobcat platform targets an embedded processor market that has been extending into new areas. Along with traditional embedded appliances, low-power chips are being used to power netbooks, tablets and even specialised energy-efficient server appliances.

To help push its Embedded Systems business, AMD said that it would be expanding the services it offers vendors. The company is adding support for the open-source coreboot BIOS as well a reference design kit for home and SMB server appliances.

Additionally, the company is launching an extension to its Fusion Partner Program. The Systems and Technology track will provide embedded system vendors with tools, training and support for marketing and sales operations.

"We recognize that in order to succeed, our partners need not only best-in- class silicon, they need the marketing and sales support to get their products to market," wrote AMD Fusion Partner Program senior marketing manager John Honning in a company blog posting.

"That's why the Systems and Technology track offers embedded partners personalized incentives and tools, training and technical enablement resources that align with their individual business objectives."