The Nintendo Wii U has been took apart to reveal what is inside for the first time.
It is in fact Nintendo's first multi-core console, and as you may know, the more cores, the faster things process, and the more that can be done at once. Almost everything now has at least two cores; maybe even the mobile phone on your desk.
The processor and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) have been put on one module, called the MCM (Multi Chip Module). This means, the two components can work faster, having less travel between each cycle, allowing less power consumption and less cooling as a result. It also means the console itself could be made much smaller than it otherwise could have been. This process wasn't without its hurdles, but the guys behind the hardware plowed on through to make sure it worked.
It is also Nintendo's first HD enabled console, and so, has an HDMI out for all the latest TV's. The older Wii functions with either Component, or older style AV connections like Scart, and Composite, and outputs at 540P, well below the 1080P the Wii U can output.
Unlike with a lot of devices, the HDMI cable will actually be included in the box, hoping people make use of the extra resolution available to them, as this accessory is something which is usually only sold separately.
The Wii U because of the multi-chip design, and the chips themselves putting out a lot more heat than the older generation Wii, the heat sink and fans had to be made a lot bigger and thicker to compensate. This makes sense, as the faster hot air is taken away, the cooler the chips run. Two fans help do this; One to suck cool air in (don't block this up), and one to blow hot air out.
The task of keeping the system cool wasn't an easy one. They went through over 2,000 tests and made improvements on the cooling system alone, to keep things as cool as possible, whilst keeping noise levels to a reasonable level.
The Wii U, like the Wii can be stood either horizontally or vertically, but the Wii U has been designed more to be sat horizontally. A stand will be made available to have it stand vertically if you so wish though.
You will be happy to know if you didn't already, that Wii games will run on the Wii U as normal, as the console is backwards compatible, and not just emulated like the PS2/Xbox games have been on the PS3 and Xbox 360.
Outside, the Sync button on the Wii U have been put on the outside, and not within a flap like on the previous console. 2 USB ports for easy accessibility have also been placed on the front, giving a total of 4.
For an in depth interview with some of the creators of the new Nintendo console, head over to Iwata Asks:
The Wii U goes on sale on the 11th November, with prices at around £250. Are you pre-ordering one? Waiting for more games? Would you rather wait for the next console Sony, and Microsoft have to offer?
Sound off down below as always.
