Intel has revealed further details about its forthcoming next-generation processors for dense server and data-storage applications. Code-named Jasper Forest, the new dual-processing chips promise to dramatically lower power consumption in comparison with the company’s current Nehalem-based Intel Xeon 5500 processors.
Specifically designed to deliver increased computing density and integration when deployed in embedded and storage applications, Jasper Forest takes advantage of Intel’s 45nm process technology and high-k, metal gate transistors to deliver “eye-opening low-watt numbers,” said Intel spokesperson Bill Kircos.
“Jasper Forest for embedded, communications and storage equipment will provide the same robust performance of our Nehalem-based Intel Xeon processor 5500 series — but with a 27-watt system power savings,” Kircos said. “And of course, all of this just gets better as we prepare for our 32nm process on tap.”
I/O Hub Integration
With Jasper Forest, Intel is integrating the I/O hub directly onto a dual-processing Xeon processor for the first time. According to Kircos, this eliminates the need for a separate I/O hub in the board design, thus providing both real-estate and power savings.
The design features and thermals of the new Intel chips make them ideal for deployment in the CompactPCI blades used in carrier equipment, Kircos noted. Intel’s next-generation devices are also aimed at designs based on the emerging Storage Bridge Bay spec, which defines the mechanical, electrical and low-level enclosure management requirements for an enclosure controller slot that can support a variety of storage controllers from different hardware and system vendors.
To facilitate dense storage and communications applications making use of IPTV, VoIP, NAS, SAN and wireless radio network controllers, Intel’s chips integrate two Jasper Forest processors with 16 second-generation PCI Express (PCIe) lanes each. Moreover, the new devices are being paired with the Intel 3420 chipset platform controller hub, formerly code-named Ibex Peak.
A Scalable Option
Jasper Forest provides…