Intel Adds 7 Smaller Chips for Notebooks

Intel Corp., the biggest semiconductor maker, started selling seven smaller, faster new microprocessors for notebook personal computers and cut prices as much as 30% on older models.

The new chips are built using Intel’s most advanced fabrication technique, called 0.13 micron. The processors consume less power than previous versions and produce less heat, the Santa Clara, Calif.-based company said.

The processors represent the completion of Intel’s transition to the new chip-making method for all its products aimed at the mobile PC market. Intel has been pushing to make smaller, faster and less power-hungry chips to stay ahead of such rivals as Transmeta Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices Inc.

Intel reduced prices 15% to 30% for older mobile processors. The 1.2 gigahertz Mobile Pentium III will sell for $508 in batches of 1,000, down 30% from $722, the company said. An 866 megahertz Mobile Celeron fell 15%, to $91 from $107.