AMD (provided additional architectural details and a first look at the performance of its next-generation, high-performance “Zen†processor core. AMD demonstrated the “Zen†core achieving a 40% generational improvement in instructions per clock, delivering a landmark increase in processor performance.
During the event, AMD demonstrated an 8-core, 16-thread “Summit Ridge†desktop processor (featuring AMD’s “Zen†core) outperforming a similarly configured 8-core, 16-thread Intel “Broadwell-E†processor when running the multi-threaded Blender rendering software with both CPUs set to the same clock speed. AMD also conducted the first public demonstration of its upcoming 32-core, 64-thread “Zenâ€-based server processor, codenamed “Naples,†in a dual processor server running the Windows® Server operating system.
The “Zen†processor core features multiple architectural advances designed to increase the performance, throughput, and efficiency of AMD’s future products. “Zen†is based on a clean-sheet design and features a new cache hierarchy, improved branch prediction and simultaneous multithreading (SMT). These advances will allow the “Zen†core to scale to meet the needs of a broad range of applications, including fanless 2-in-1s, embedded systems, high-performance computing, and the datacenter.
“AMD invested where it counts, with an x86 core that can scale from PCs to high-performance servers,†said Linley Gwennap, principal analyst, Linley Group. “Consumers today expect to get the most out of their systems to create transformative experiences. The versatile design of ‘Zen’ delivers highly-efficient performance that should provide increased computing capabilities across the spectrum – from devices to cloud computing.â€
Expected to launch first, the “Zenâ€-based “Summit Ridge†desktops will utilize the AMD AM4 socket, a new unified socket infrastructure that is compatible with 7th Generation AMD A-Series desktop processors – previously codenamed “Bristol Ridge†– for exceptional performance and connectivity scalability required by AMD partners and customers. The first desktop systems featuring 7th Generation AMD A-Series processors and new AM4 sockets are scheduled to ship in the second half of 2016 in OEM PC designs.
With dedicated PCIe® lanes for cutting-edge USB, graphics, data and other I/O, the AMD AM4 platform will not steal lanes from other devices and components. This allows users to enjoy systems with improved responsiveness and benefit from future-ready technologies that the AM4 platform provides with a powerful, scalable and reliable computing solution.
AMD AM4 platform key technology features include:
• DDR4 Memory
• PCIe Gen 3
• USB 3.1 Gen2 10Gbps
• NVMe
• SATA Express
First Impression
I believe nothing until I see actual benchmarks. It’s not uncommon that benchmarks used will be one that’s favoring the product. Suffice to say, I loved AMD’s processors however I am disappointed of their progress over the past few years, especially that they released nonsense products that’s basically old products with a little speed boost.
The “Zen” processor is one that I’ve been looking forward for the longest of time and I must say I’ve never been more excited over a processor, deep in my heart I do hope to see a 95W processor that can outperform the Intel Core i7-5960X or at least come close in performance without breaking the bank.
