Linux patch suggests AMD Zen architecture supports up to 32 cores

Posted on Wednesday, February 03 2016 @ 17:08 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
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Dresdenboy noticed there's a new Linux kernel patch that confirms the existence of an AMD processor codenamed Zeppelin. There's not a lot to go on, but if he's right the Zen architecture will support up to 32 cores, which is in-line with previous rumors. One important caveat though is that this is not a consumer-class chip, but it's interesting nonetheless.
"Core complex" should be similar to "compute unit" and has been used in some AMD patents already. The expression marked in red means a shift right by 3, which equals a division by 8. So with two logical cores per physical core due to SMT, a core complex should contain four Zen cores and a shared LLC.

The next line shows the socket ID being shifted left by 3, leaving 3 bits for the core complex ID, which suggests a maximum number of eight core complexes per socket, or 32 physical cores. This number should first be seen as a placeholder, but we've already seen rumours mentioning that many cores.


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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