Key Takeaways
1. Zen 6 will increase core count per CCD to 12 and L3 cache to 48 MB.
2. The CCD is expected to be manufactured using TSMC’s advanced N2X node, starting mass production in 2026.
3. AMD is skipping two manufacturing nodes, moving from N4 to N2X, which could lead to a 10% IPC boost.
4. AMD aims for Zen 6 to reach clock speeds of 6.0 GHz, matching Intel’s Raptor Lake processors.
5. Zen 6 may support stacking multiple 3D V-cache tiles, but this technology might not be available for gaming models until Zen 7.
Leaker Moore’s Law is Dead has shared more intriguing info on AMD’s Zen 6, particularly about the Medusa Ridge desktop components. Tom previously mentioned that Zen 6 would boost the core count per CCD to 12 and increase the L3 cache to 48 MB. The latest leak dives into clock speeds, the manufacturing process, and suggests the presence of a 128-bit memory controller.
Manufacturing Details
The CCD for Olympic Ridge, previously called Medusa Ridge, is said to be produced using TSMC’s advanced N2X node. This N2X is reportedly a high-performance upgrade of the N2P variant. While TSMC’s roadmap doesn’t clarify the differences between the two, it does confirm that mass production will begin in 2026, aligning with AMD’s plans to launch Zen 6 desktop versions. Conversely, the I/O die might be fabricated using TSMC’s N3P or N6 nodes.
Performance Expectations
Zen 6 marks a significant leap, moving from TSMC’s N4 (used for Zen 5) directly to N2X, skipping two nodes. AMD is fully embracing the latest technology after usually lagging behind by a node or two. This could lead to improved performance, with rumors indicating a 10% IPC boost. However, the cost of N2 wafers is quite high, and consumers will likely feel the impact of these increased expenses.
Tom notes that AMD aims to push Zen 6 to reach the impressive 6.0 GHz threshold, a feat already accomplished by Intel with its Raptor Lake processors. Moreover, Zen 6 is expected to support stacking multiple 3D V-cache tiles. While some server-grade models might feature this technology, it probably won’t reach gaming models until Zen 7 is released.
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