Intel Unveils Sapphire Rapids Scalable Processors, Ushering in a New Era of Data Center Computing

On January 10, 2023, Intel Corporation officially unveiled its highly anticipated Sapphire Rapids scalable processors, marking a significant breakthrough in data center technology. These next-generation processors are designed to empower a wide range of workloads, from cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) to data analytics and high-performance computing (HPC).

Enhanced Performance and Efficiency

Sapphire Rapids processors boast a groundbreaking architecture that delivers exceptional performance and efficiency gains. The processors feature a new Golden Cove core microarchitecture, providing up to 34% higher performance-per-watt compared to their predecessors. This enhanced efficiency allows data centers to reduce their energy consumption while maintaining or even increasing their computational capabilities.

Increased Core Count and Memory Capacity

To meet the growing demands of data-intensive applications, Sapphire Rapids processors offer a significant increase in core count and memory capacity. The processors support up to 60 cores per socket, doubling the core count of the previous-generation Ice Lake processors. Additionally, Sapphire Rapids processors feature support for DDR5 memory, enabling data centers to leverage faster and more capacious memory subsystems.

Advanced Security and Reliability Features

In an increasingly digital world, security and reliability are paramount. Sapphire Rapids processors incorporate advanced security features, including Total Memory Encryption (TME), Intel SGX, and Intel Control Flow Enforcement Technology (CET). These features enhance data protection and minimize the risk of malicious attacks. Additionally, Sapphire Rapids processors offer improved reliability with new error-correcting code (ECC) algorithms.

Accelerated I/O and Networking

To facilitate rapid data transfer and low-latency communication, Sapphire Rapids processors are equipped with PCIe 5.0 and Compute Express Link (CXL) 1.1 interfaces. PCIe 5.0 delivers twice the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, enabling faster access to peripheral devices and storage systems. CXL 1.1 allows processors to directly connect to high-speed memory and accelerators, reducing data movement bottlenecks.

Industry-Leading Software Support

Sapphire Rapids processors are fully compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Linux, Windows Server, and VMware ESXi. The processors also support Intel's oneAPI software ecosystem, providing developers with a unified programming model across multiple architectures. This enables seamless application portability and accelerates software development.

Availability and Pricing

Intel has commenced the initial shipments of Sapphire Rapids processors to select early access customers. General availability is expected in the first half of 2023. Pricing for Sapphire Rapids processors will vary depending on the specific model, core count, and configuration.

Impact on Data Center Computing

The launch of Sapphire Rapids scalable processors represents a major advancement in data center computing. These processors offer a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, security, and connectivity. As data centers continue to evolve to meet the insatiable demand for data processing and storage, Sapphire Rapids processors are poised to power a new era of data center innovation.

Key Features and Benefits of Sapphire Rapids Scalable Processors:

Enhanced Performance-per-Watt: Up to 34% higher performance-per-watt compared to previous-generation processors.
Increased Core Count and Memory Capacity: Up to 60 cores per socket and support for DDR5 memory.
Advanced Security Features: Total Memory Encryption, Intel SGX, and Intel Control Flow Enforcement Technology.
Accelerated I/O and Networking: PCIe 5.0 and Compute Express Link (CXL) 1.1 interfaces.
Industry-Leading Software Support: Compatibility with Linux, Windows Server, VMware ESXi, and Intel's oneAPI software ecosystem.
Enhanced Reliability: Improved error-correcting code (ECC) algorithms.