If it simply, the new interface Thunderbolt implies the use of the new chip, power cord and two ports. The standard allows data transmission via two independent channels – in both directions simultaneously over a single cable – and all this at a record high for the industry rate of 10 gigabits per second (average transfer HD-movie to 1080p through the Thunderbolt only takes about 30 seconds).

One of the channels using the already familiar interface of PCI Express x4 data (in fact, Thunderbolt – this is a direct link to the bus PCI Express), whereas other channels, through interface DisplayPort (the port itself Thunderbolt is quite similar to the port DisplayPort), is transmitted solely video. To operate the entire system, you need a controller Thunderbolt – Intel claims that he is indifferent to the set in the "hardware" in the sense that can work with both processors and chipsets, Intel, and the processor / chipset AMD (as well as with CPUs of other manufacturers). Chip operates as a sort of "miniature router, fast switching during operation between the two bi-directional data channels.

Sounds great, but why do we need another standard for another? Intel says that the interface is backward compatible with other standards, it depends only on the cable used. Using the appropriate adapter to the port Thunderbolt can connect any accessories designed to work with USB 2.0, FireWire, or eSATA (Intel is deliberately silent on USB 3.0).

And in the future Thunderbolt ports on your computer and peripherals, and does it will be possible to connect an optical cable. Probably, these cables appear when their value becomes more or less acceptable. According to Intel for the optical cable ports Thunderbolt modifications would be required – opto-electrical converters will be integrated directly into the cable.

Meanwhile, the length of the standard "copper" cable is three meters (limited by the length of copper cable ten meters). The connected gadget available "generous" food on the bus (one slot you can get up to 10 watts of electricity), and since the device under the Thunderbolt will always have two ports, they will maintain a "daisy-connection". That is, at one port can "hang" three or four different devices.

With the help of technology Thunderbolt possible without all sorts of adapters to connect the monitor,odderzhivayuschy DisplayPort, as well as any other monitor with the standard adapter (with DisplayPort) from Apple.

Despite the fact that Intel has not mentioned the prices of cables and chips, Promise, and LaCie is already preparing to submit prototypes of their devices to the new market created by technology, Thunderbolt.

This video shows the simultaneous transmission of four video clips through the Thunderbolt to 1080p with the MacBook Pro and connected NAS from Promise.