Intel has launched its new Xeon Scalable processors. Code-named Ice Lake, the third-generation server chips target applications such as data centres and 5G networks. Cisco, Nokia and QCT were among the first companies to say they're adopting the Intel processors for their products.
Intel said the processors deliver an average 46 percent improvement in performance on popular data centre workloads compared to the previous generations. They also add new platform capabilities such as Intel SGX for built-in security, and Intel Crypto Acceleration and Intel DL Boost for AI acceleration.
Built on new 10nm process technology, the latest generation comes with up to 40 cores per processor and up to 2.65 times higher average performance gain compared with a 5-year-old system, Intel said. The platform supports up to 6 terabytes of system memory per socket, up to 8 channels of DDR4-3200 memory per socket and up to 64 lanes of PCIe Gen4 per socket.
For network applications, the Xeon processors come with new network-optimized N-SKUs. These deliver an average 62 percent more performance on a range of broadly deployed 5G and network workloads over the prior generation. Working with the over 400 Intel Network Builders members, Intel offers blueprints based on the N-SKUs to help customers accelerate qualification and shorten time-to-deployment for applications such as vRAN, NFVI and virtual CDN.
Customers
Some of the operators trying out the new applications with Intel include Rakuten Mobile and SK Telecom for their 5G core networks, Verizon and Vodafone in work on developing virtual RANs, and AT&T on expanding its CDN capacity.
Alongside Intel's announcement, Cisco introduced new Unified Computing System (Cisco UCS) server models with the latest Xeon Scalable processors. The new Cisco UCS B200 M6, C220 M6 and C240 M6 servers deliver increased performance, enhanced security and improved efficiency to manage modern workloads, the company said. The servers are expected to be available within the next 90 days.
Nokia also will be updating its AirFrame data centre products with the new Intel chips, as soon as they are available. The company said the processors will provide faster speeds, superior data throughput and lower energy consumption to support its 5G AirScale Cloud RAN and Cloud Core platforms.
Quanta Cloud Technology announced its next-generation server systems supporting the new Intel Xeon Scalable processors. These include the QuantaGrid D53X-1U for hybrid cloud infrastructures, HCI, and data analytics; QuantaGrid D53XQ-2U for AI acceleration and scalability with flexible NVMe support for HPC and enterprise workloads; and QuantaPlex T43Z-2U high-density server for extreme compute performance and space efficiency for a variety of workloads.
