The Sierra Forest, a new CPU by Intel, is set to revolutionize the world of server CPUs with its high core density. The CPU features up to 144 Intel E cores, with a version boasting 288 cores planned to arrive next year. This product is focused on maximizing core density rather than performance per core, leading to smaller data center footprints and lower total cost of ownership.
Intel promises significant improvements in energy efficiency and space savings with Sierra Forest, including rack-level performance gains of up to 4.2x and performance per watt gains of up to 2.6x. Additionally, the CPU is positioned as an ideal match for artificial intelligence, working in conjunction with AI accelerators in a cluster.
Despite Intel’s late entry into the realm of high-core count server CPUs, the company is quickly catching up with competitors. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and other cloud giants like Microsoft and Alphabet have already launched CPUs with similarly high core counts. However, Intel’s upcoming Clearwater Forest CPU, based on the Intel 18A compute node, aims to regain technological leadership.
Alongside Sierra Forest, Intel will also launch its Granite Rapids server CPUs in the third quarter, focusing on maximizing performance per core. AMD is also set to launch new server CPUs this year, potentially with even higher core counts. However, Intel hopes to gain an advantage with its Intel 18A process node once in production.
Overall, Intel’s recent product launches indicate a promising future for the company’s server business. Despite losing market share in recent years, Sierra Forest and upcoming CPUs like Granite Rapids and Clearwater Forest could help Intel regain its competitive edge. By staying ahead in terms of technology and product development, Intel may have a chance to reclaim its former prominence in the server CPU market.
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https://www.fool.com/investing/2024/06/06/intel-launches-144-core-server-cpu-to-take-on-amd/
