Intel introduces massive Xe HPC GPU with 8192 cores

Raja Koduri, has just revealed a photo of an Intel Xe HPC GPU (unofficially known as Arctic Sound). This is the first time we see a part of the GPU architecture, several specific areas are indeed blurred.

Xe HPC ready for power on!
7 advanced silicon technologies in a single package
Silicon engineers dream
Thing of beauty @intel pic.twitter.com/RF8Prsy05f

— Raja Koduri (@Rajaontheedge) January 26, 2021

Objectively, even if we’re not yet at the mass production stage, what we have before us is simply mind-boggling when it comes to engineering. This Intel Xe HPC GPU uses a combination of Intel 7 nm, Intel 10 nm and TSMC 7 nm process technologies brought together by Foveros. The diagram commented from Wccftech sources is even more eloquent.

There are no less than seven technologies used here:

• Intel 7 nm
• Intel 10nm Superfinn
• TSMC 7 nm
• Packaging Foveros 3D
• EMIB
• Cache Rambo
• HBM2

If this chip remains a prototype (probably the next Ponte Vecchio chip), its powering up is a very positive signal sent by Intel. It also confirms an information already relayed on the control (finally) of the 7nm process by Intel. It also seems to mean that the rookies have decided to regain control of their roadmap by respecting the deadlines / steps they themselves have set. Ponte Vecchio is indeed to be used in the Aurora supercomputer and there were many doubts as to whether Intel would be able to meet the deadline. The trend now seems much more optimistic.