Intel 3 process had met the targets for yield and performance
Intel delineated the roadmap for its Xeon processors for the years 2023-2025 in March of this year, illustrating the bifurcation of future Xeon series processors into two distinct product lines, namely P-Core and E-Core. The former encapsulates the traditional Xeon series, whereas the latter is a novel addition emphasizing energy-efficient architecture, promising enhanced power efficiency. The coming year will witness Intel introducing Granite Rapids and Sierra Forest, both of which are predicated on the Intel 3 process, falling under the P-Core and E-Core product lines respectively.
Following two consecutive quarters of incurred losses, Intel finally rebounded to profitability in the second quarter of 2023. During a quarterly earnings conference call, CEO Pat Gelsinger confirmed that the Intel 3 process had met the targets for yield and performance. Intel anticipates launching Sierra Forest in the first half of 2024, followed by the introduction of Granite Rapids.
The Intel 3 node, previously termed the 5nm node, leverages further optimization of FinFET and increased usage of Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography in more procedures. The implementation of the second generation of EUV lithography facilitates approximately an 18% increase in performance per watt compared to Intel 4, coupled with reduced resistance and augmented drive current, and it also provides additional improvements in the chip area. The Intel 3 process is particularly suited for data center-grade products, which typically feature large single chips with high power consumption. Thus far, Intel has only confirmed the adoption of the Intel 3 process for two server-targeted processors, Granite Rapids and Sierra Forest.
Nevertheless, the attainment of the yield and performance objectives by the Intel 3 process is an auspicious development. At the very least, it ensures that Intel can deliver Granite Rapids and Sierra Forest in a timely fashion next year, bringing more competitive products to market and preventing AMD from further extending its lead in the server market.
