AMD tackles AI with new embedded processors

AMD has recently unveiled its latest addition to the x86 embedded processor lineup - the 5th-generation AMD EPYC Embedded processors. These new processors are designed to strike a balance between cutting-edge compute capabilities and purpose-built embedded features that enhance product longevity, reliability, system resiliency, and ease of embedded application development.

Powered by the proven “Zen 5” architecture, these embedded processors offer exceptional performance and energy efficiency. This allows networking, storage, and industrial edge systems to process more data at a faster rate and with improved efficiency. With support for core counts ranging from 8 to 192 in a single socket, these processors are tailored for compute-intensive embedded systems.

The industry-leading core density of the 5th-generation AMD EPYC Embedded processors results in a significant increase in data processing throughput for networking and storage workloads. This makes them an ideal choice for network and security firewall platforms, storage systems, and industrial control applications. The new “Zen 5c” core architecture further enhances throughput and energy efficiency, offering up to a 1.3X increase in socket throughput and performance per Watt compared to competitors.

Moreover, these processors support up to 6TB of DDR5 memory per socket and feature expanded I/O connectivity. With support for up to 160 PCIe Gen5 lanes with CXL 2.0, these processors facilitate storage capacity expansion and high-speed data transfers for networking and storage applications. This enhanced memory capacity and I/O connectivity make the 5th-generation AMD EPYC Embedded processors well-suited for demanding workloads.

Salil Raje, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Adaptive and Embedded Computing at AMD, highlighted the increasing demand for higher compute performance in embedded platforms driven by AI-driven network traffic, growing data storage needs, and the expansion of industrial edge computing. Raje emphasized that the 5th Gen AMD EPYC Embedded processors bring leadership performance and efficiency to embedded customers, offering long product lifecycles and enhanced system resiliency to ensure continuous operations in demanding "always-on" environments.