AMD launches EPYC Embedded 9006 processors with up to 256 cores

AMD has launched its EPYC Embedded 9006 series SP7 processors, built on the Zen 6 architecture with up to 256 cores and 512 threads. They are the first embedded chips to support PCIe Gen6 and CXL 3.1, with 16-channel DDR5/MRDIMM memory and a 7-year product life.

This line targets embedded uses like chip testing equipment, enterprise storage and high-end firewalls, unlike the earlier version made for cloud computing and AI servers. The new SP7 socket is not physically compatible with the older SP5 socket.

On performance, memory bandwidth is up to 2.7 times that of the last generation, multi-core throughput improves by 1.8 times, firewall throughput by 1.3 times, and storage acceleration by 1.5 times. The chips also add root-of-trust security modules and post-quantum firmware encryption, covering protection from boot to runtime.

Models range from 64 to 256 cores. The 128-core model ships on November 15, with the rest arriving by the end of the year. Samsung and other makers are already building hardware on this platform.