Intel’s Cutting-Edge Core Ultra Desktop Processors Arrive

Embedded World

Intel introduces Core Ultra desktop processors, Meteor Lake-PS, designed for Edge computing, featuring upgraded process nodes, integrated graphics, and Neural Processing Unit capabilities.

announcement in the world of desktop processors
Impressive specifications with up to 16 cores and 24MB of L3 cache
Extensive connectivity options and support for future platforms

Intel has made a announcement with the release of their new Core Ultra desktop processors, known as Meteor Lake-PS. These chips were launched during the Embedded World 2024 event in Germany and are specifically designed for Edge computing. The Core Ultra desktop processors are identical to their mobile counterparts, boasting upgraded process nodes, integrated graphics (iGPU), and Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capabilities.

The Core Ultra Edge lineup consists of nine different SKUs, offering impressive specifications. These processors can pack up to 16 cores, with a combination of 6 performance cores (P-Cores), 8 efficiency cores (E-Cores), and 2 low-power efficiency cores (LPE-cores). They also feature a generous 24MB of L3 cache and an Arc Xe-LPG iGPU.

The Meteor Lake-PS lineup is divided into two categories: four 45W SKUs derived from Meteor Lake-H, and five 15W SKUs derived from Meteor Lake-U. The former range from 12 to 16 cores, while the latter feature 8 to 12 core parts, each with only 2 P-cores. The L3 cache varies from 10MB to 24MB, with a peak boost clock of 5GHz for the P-cores. All the chips offer 20 PCIe Gen 4 lanes and support DDR5-5600 memory.

The integrated Arc “Alchemist” GPU is another highlight of the Core Ultra processors. It features 64 to 128 Execution Units (EUs), with UL chips having a clock speed ranging from 1.80 to 2GHz, and HL chips clocked at 2.20 to 2.30GHz.

In terms of compatibility, the Meteor Lake-PS processors will utilize the LGA1851 socket, which is a departure from the previous LGA-1700 socket used since Alder Lake’s release in 2021. This new socket will also be used for future platforms like Arrow Lake and its subsequent refresh. Intel has provided a block diagram that showcases the extensive connectivity options of the Meteor Lake-PS processors, including support for WiFi 6E/BT 5.3, eDP 12.4b port, 4x Thunderbolt 4 ports (via USB-C), 2x 4-lane PCIe slots for Gen 4 SSDs, and an additional 12 PCIe Gen 4 lanes.

Overall, Intel’s Core Ultra desktop processors mark a significant advancement in hardware technology. With their upgraded process nodes, powerful iGPUs, and extensive connectivity options, these processors are set to revolutionize the Edge computing landscape. As Intel continues to push the boundaries of innovation, we can expect even more exciting developments in the future.

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Background Information

About Intel: Intel Corporation, a global technology leader, is for its semiconductor innovations that power computing and communication devices worldwide. As a pioneer in microprocessor technology, Intel has left an indelible mark on the evolution of computing with its processors that drive everything from PCs to data centers and beyond. With a history of advancements, Intel's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the digital landscape, offering solutions that empower businesses and individuals to achieve new levels of productivity and connectivity.

Event Info

About Embedded World: Embedded World, located in Nuremberg, Germany, is a leading international trade fair dedicated to embedded systems and technologies. Renowned for its comprehensive exhibition and conference program, Embedded World serves as a hub for engineers, developers, and decision-makers to explore the latest advancements in embedded hardware, software, and systems integration. The event facilitates networking, knowledge exchange, and business opportunities within the rapidly evolving field of embedded technology.

Technology Explained

DDR5: DDR5 (Double Data Rate 5) is the next generation of memory technology for the computer industry. It is a modern day improvement on earlier DDR technologies, with faster speeds, greater bandwidth and higher capacities. DDR5 enables higher resolution, seamless gaming experiences and faster data transfer rates, making it an ideal choice for high-performance computing and 4K gaming. With its greater RAM compatibility, DDR5 provides faster buffering times and raised clock speeds, giving users an improved overall work system. DDR5 is also optimized for multi-tasking, allowing users to multitask without experiencing a significant drop in performance, increasing the productivity of digital tasks. As an ever-evolving technology, DDR5 is paving the way for the computer industry into a new and powerful era.

E-Cores: E-Cores (Efficiency Cores) are a type of technology used in the computer industry to provide a more efficient and reliable way of powering and cooling computer components. They are made up of a combination of copper and aluminum, and are designed to be more efficient than traditional copper cores. E-Cores are used in a variety of applications, such as in CPUs, GPUs, and other computer components. They are also used in servers, laptops, and other electronic devices. The technology is designed to reduce heat and power consumption, while also providing a more reliable and efficient way of powering and cooling computer components.

GPU: GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit and is a specialized type of processor designed to handle graphics-intensive tasks. It is used in the computer industry to render images, videos, and 3D graphics. GPUs are used in gaming consoles, PCs, and mobile devices to provide a smooth and immersive gaming experience. They are also used in the medical field to create 3D models of organs and tissues, and in the automotive industry to create virtual prototypes of cars. GPUs are also used in the field of artificial intelligence to process large amounts of data and create complex models. GPUs are becoming increasingly important in the computer industry as they are able to process large amounts of data quickly and efficiently.

iGPU: An integrated Graphics Processing Unit (iGPU) is a component built into a computer's central processing unit (CPU) or system-on-chip (SoC) that handles graphical tasks. Unlike dedicated graphics cards, which are separate components, an iGPU shares system resources with the CPU, allowing for basic graphics capabilities without the need for an additional card. While typically less powerful than dedicated GPUs, iGPUs are energy-efficient and well-suited for everyday computing tasks

L3 cache: L3 cache is a type of computer memory that is used to store frequently used data and instructions. It is located between the processor and main memory, and is used to reduce the amount of time it takes for the processor to access data from main memory. This helps to improve the overall performance of the computer. In the computer industry, L3 cache is used in many applications, such as gaming, video editing, and web browsing. It can also be used to improve the performance of servers and other high-performance computing tasks. By providing faster access to data, L3 cache can help to reduce the amount of time it takes for a computer to complete a task.

NPU: NPU, or Neural Processing Unit, is a type of specialized processor that is designed to handle complex artificial intelligence tasks. It is inspired by the structure and function of the human brain, with the ability to process and analyze large amounts of data simultaneously. In the computer industry, NPU technology is being used in various applications such as speech recognition, image and video processing, and natural language processing. This allows computers to perform tasks that were previously only possible for humans, making them more efficient and intelligent. NPU technology is also being integrated into smartphones, self-driving cars, and other devices, making them smarter and more responsive to user needs. With the increasing demand for AI-driven technology, the use of NPU is expected to grow and revolutionize the way we interact with computers in the future.

P-Cores: P-Cores (Performance Cores) are a type of processor technology developed by Intel that is designed to improve the performance of computer systems. This technology is based on the concept of multi-core processors, which are processors that contain multiple cores or processing units. P-Cores are designed to increase the speed and efficiency of computer systems by allowing multiple cores to work together in parallel. This technology is used in a variety of applications, including gaming, video editing, and data analysis. P-Cores are also used in servers and other high-performance computing systems. The technology is also used in mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to improve battery life and performance. P-Cores are an important part of the computer industry, as they allow for faster and more efficient computing.

PCIe: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard for connecting components such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards to a motherboard. It is the most widely used interface in the computer industry today, and is used in both desktop and laptop computers. PCIe is capable of providing up to 16 times the bandwidth of the older PCI standard, allowing for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance. It is also used in a variety of other applications, such as storage, networking, and communications. PCIe is an essential component of modern computing, and its applications are only expected to grow in the future.

Thunderbolt 4: Thunderbolt 4 is a high-speed connection interface that enables data transfer between computers and peripherals. Thunderbolt 4 is the fastest version of Thunderbolt yet, with speeds up to 40 Gbps, and it is also the most versatile, with support for up to four 4K displays, dual 4K video, and up to 100W of power delivery. Thunderbolt 4 is ideal for connecting high-performance peripherals such as external storage drives, docks, and displays. It is also ideal for connecting multiple computers together for high-speed data transfer and collaboration.

USB-C: USB-C is a new type of USB connector that is quickly becoming the industry standard for connecting devices to computers. It is a reversible connector, meaning it can be plugged in either way, and it is capable of transferring data at speeds up to 10 Gbps. It is also capable of providing up to 100 watts of power, making it ideal for charging laptops and other devices. USB-C is quickly becoming the go-to connector for connecting peripherals to computers, such as external hard drives, monitors, and printers. It is also being used to connect smartphones and tablets to computers, allowing for faster data transfer and charging. USB-C is quickly becoming the industry standard for connecting devices to computers, and its applications are only expected to grow in the future.