AMD

AMD Server Processors - From Opteron to EPYC

The US processor manufacturer AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) was able to achieve noticeable success in the server sector for the first time with the Opteron product family introduced in 2003. Until the brand name was discontinued, the processor architecture was constantly improved. The last Opteron CPUs (Central Processing Units) were available in variants with one and two semiconductor chips (die) for the C32 and G34 sockets.

As a successor, the first generation of EPYC server processors for socket SP3 based on the Zen microarchitecture was introduced in 2017, which the company also uses for its desktop CPUs of the Ryzen series and the Threadripper processors optimised for workstations. With a high number of cores and PCIe lanes (PCI Express) for the connection of graphic cards (GPUs) for computing acceleration, the EPYC models meet the requirements of professional enterprise applications in the field of HPC (High Performance Computing), and also perform very efficient due to the modern manufacturing technology.

The AMD EPYC processor generations in overview

Since its market launch, AMD's successful Zen architecture has been further developed and improved, so the EPYC 7000 processor family has also become more efficient and capable with each generation.

The last digit of the four-digit model designation indicates the respective generation of the CPU and the additional marking "P" indicates that it is a model for server systems with one processor socket. Without this addition, the processors can be used in servers with up to two sockets.
The second and third digits of the model number refer to the number of cores using a conversion factor and to the performance rating. Within the second and third generation, there are also models with higher clock frequencies, which are marked with the suffix "F" and have the largest possible L3 cache, regardless of the number of processing cores.

Codenames are also frequently used to differentiate between the generations. These are taken from product development and are often used by manufacturers in presentations for market launches.

EPYC 7001 - First generation (2017)

• Codename "Naples"
• Architecture: Zen 1
• Manufacturing technology: 14 nm
• Up to 32 cores
• Support for DDR4-2400 / DDR4-2666 memory 
• Product examples: EPYC 7551 (two sockets) / EPYC 7551P (one socket)

EPYC 7002 - Second Generation (2019)

• Codename "Rome"
• Architecture: Zen 2
• Manufacturing technology: 7 nm
• Up to 64 cores
• Support for DDR4-3200 memory
• Product examples: EPYC 7702 (two sockets) / EPYC 7702P (one socket)

EPYC 7003 - Third generation (2021)

• Codename "Milan"
• Architecture: Zen 3
• Manufacturing technology: 7 nm
• Up to 64 cores
• Support for DDR4-3200 memory
• Significant performance increase compared to the second generation
• Product examples: EPYC 7713 (two sockets) / EPYC 7713P (one socket)

Upgrade options and a preview of the AMD EPYC CPUs of the fourth generation

Since the EPYC generations use the same socket with SP3, the compatibility required for upgrading existing systems is basically given. However, it depends strongly on the mainboard used whether a server system can be equipped with a newer CPU. If motherboards were designed for the second processor generation, the third generation can usually be installed without any problems. However, if it is a motherboard that was originally intended for use with the first CPU generation, a firmware update will often only support upgrading to the second EPYC generation.

In the case of a CPU upgrade for performance increase, it is also essential to check the system's available cooling for compatibility. Preconfigured server solutions are often delivered with CPU heatsinks that are matched to the respective processors installed. When upgrading, it should be noted that the various EPYC models differ significantly in their thermal power dissipation (TDP = Thermal Design Power), depending on the performance and generation with 120 to 280 watts. Therefore, an upgrade of the CPU may also require a replacement of the heatsink. The cooling performance of a server can also be improved by adding more chassis fans or installing more powerful models.

For the fourth generation, codenamed "Genoa", support for DDR5 memory is expected in the fourth quarter of 2022, in addition to an increasing number of processing cores. With up to 96 cores and 12 memory channels instead of the previous 8, the new Zen 4 architecture with refined 5 nm manufacturing technology enables a further increase in performance, but also requires a new platform with the necessary SP5 socket. The designation of the processor series is also raised from 7000 to 9000 in the fourth generation.

Refurbished AMD processors available at low prices - ServerShop24

Server processors are very capable and high-priced components, especially when it comes to the latest generation. With used and carefully tested AMD CPUs, you have a cost-effective alternative to expensive new hardware to obtain the required computing performance for your application and at the same time preserve your IT budget. EPYC processors are so performant due to the modern Zen architecture that often even models from the previous generations of the current flagships provide sufficient computing power for most applications. However, tested second-hand products from our online shop cost only a fraction of the former new price and offer an excellent price-performance ratio. With over 10 years of experience, we are your reliable partner for professionally refurbished second-hand servers, storage systems and network equipment. You will also find a large selection of high-quality components in our extensive stock, which you can obtain and implement to upgrade your systems through fast shipping with the shortest possible delivery times. If you have any questions about products and your order, our friendly and competent support team will assist you, contact us - we will take care of your request!