Toshiba, manufacturer of the ever-controversial PlayStation 3 chips Cell and RSX, plan to create the graphics processing RSX at a 65nm process next month according to Nikkei.
The chip has been manufactured at a 90nm process since before the PS3’s launch last November. The smaller die size of the chip will equate to less system heat, leading to less fan noise, creating a more reliable PS3. In addition, it should help cut hardware costs for Sony, which will eventually lead to cheaper prices for the consumer.
The Cell is currently created at a 65nm process, a smaller size than the 90nm seen at launch. It is generally believed that the switch in size allowed Sony to price the 40GB SKU at USD 399.
Unsurprisingly, Nikkei also reports that Sony will reduce the processes for PS3 chips to 45nm in either Q3 or Q4 of the 2008 fiscal year, once again benefiting both the company and the consumer.