Reducing import dependence is also important for European developers of critical infrastructure, which is why representatives of the Barcelona Supercomputer Center (BSC-CNS) have confirmed the functionality of the TC1 processors they designed with RISC-V architecture, manufactured using Intel 3 technology.
Purpose experiment The goal was to create server processors that are independent of proprietary architectures and Asian production chains. Essentially, European developers have simply traded one dependency for another, as Intel, the American company, is responsible for manufacturing their new processors, but they apparently place more hope in maintaining good relations with the US than in stable supplies from Taiwan.
TC1 processors with the RISC-V architecture were initially intended for production using TSMC's 7 nm process, but the developers managed to obtain a pilot batch of 500 samples from Intel, which largely demonstrated the correct operation of all three components. The first TC1 samples were received back in May of last year, allowing the operating system to boot. Linux On the Intel Hawk Canyon V2 test platform. The TC1 processors feature a multi-chip design and consist of three parts, each with its own unique designation: Sargantana, Lagarto Ka, and Lagarto Ox. The central processing unit (CPU) is housed on a 15,2 mm² die, occupying only 3,2 mm². PCI Express 5.0 and DDR5 interfaces are supported. The processor achieves clock speeds of 1,25 GHz, exceeding the design values.
Intel's 3-step process technology isn't cutting-edge by industry standards, but it's still attractive to smaller developers. On the other hand, by providing contract chip manufacturing services, Intel itself can improve its financial position. While BSC-CNS isn't capable of large-scale production, the experiment at least proves the viability of the idea. European developers, seeking independence from commercial architectures and Asian supply chains, may consider this approach to bringing their processors to market.
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Source: 3dnews.ru
