Common Building Block Explained

Common Building Block
Release Date:	2005
Developer:	Intel Corporation
Type:	Laptop platform
Successor:	Ultrabook specification

Common Building Block (CBB) was a set of technical standards for laptop components introduced by Intel in 2005, and adopted by some manufacturers, including Asus, Compal, and Quanta.

Creation

In 2004, the Common Building Block program promoted the use of industry-accepted mechanical and electrical specifications for three notebook components: 14.1-inch, 15-inch, and 15.4-inch liquid crystal displays (LCDs); 9.5mm and 12.7mm optical disc drives (ODDs); and 2.5-inch hard disk drives (HDDs). The program consisted of:

• A Web site to provide a centralized repository of information about the program, participants, and platform and ingredient specifications
• A continually updated list of CBB-compliant ingredients (submitted by suppliers)
• A testing and verification service for candidate products

The defunct repository site mobileformfactors.org was established to standardize components, and included:

• Hard disk drives
• Optical disc drives
• Liquid crystal display panels
• Battery packs
• AC/DC power adapters
• Keyboards
• Customizable notebook panels

References

• Common Building Block Specifications
• Intel pushes for conformity in notebooks
• Intel looks to attract leading notebook vendors for CBB initiative, 17 oct 2006