AMD launches EPYC Embedded 9006 processors with up to 256 cores

AMD has launched the EPYC Embedded 9006 Series SP7 processors, with up to 256 cores. The 128-core version is available starting November 15, and AMD says the other versions are expected to begin shipping by the end of the year.

The chips use the Zen 6 core design. AMD says the series offers up to 256 cores and 512 threads, PCIe Gen 6 and CXL 3.1 connectivity, and a seven-year product life. Customers can choose versions with 64 to 256 cores.

AMD puts the throughput gain at up to 1.8 times the prior generation. That comparison is an internal estimate against 5th Gen EPYC 9005 processors. AMD also says firewall throughput is up to 1.3 times the prior generation, I/O bandwidth is up to 1.5 times, and memory bandwidth is up to 2.7 times. It says those figures are estimates and may change when the products ship.

The announcement lists the memory and I/O specs. The processors have 16 DDR5 channels, with RDIMM speeds up to 8,000 megatransfers per second and MRDIMM speeds up to 12,800. AMD says they offer up to 96 PCIe Gen 6 lanes at 64 gigatransfers per second.

AMD says the series adds post-quantum cryptography for firmware signing. The announcement describes a root of trust for secure boot, a security processor for runtime services, and Caliptra for device identity. AMD says firmware updates and software support continue for the embedded line.

The 128-core processor is the first version AMD says will ship. It is available starting November 15. The remaining versions, spanning 64 to 256 cores, are expected to begin shipping by the end of the year.