Katarzyna Petru
AMD has unveiled a new series of EPYC 8005 server processors, known by the codename Sorano. The chips have been designed for telecommunications infrastructure and edge environments, where low latency, high predictability of performance, and energy efficiency are critical. The most powerful models offer up to 84 Zen 5 cores, which represents a significant leap compared to the previous generation Siena.
84 cores Zen 5 and up to 225 W TDP
Sorano expands the EPYC family based on Zen 5 architecture. The processors offer up to 84 cores while maintaining a maximum power consumption of 225 W. However, AMD suggests that, similar to previous generations, there will also be variants with lower TDP, potentially below 100 W, which is significant in edge installations with limited cooling capabilities. The architecture includes a full 512-bit data path for vector instructions, which is one of the key elements of the changes in Zen 5. In vRAN (virtualized Radio Access Network) environments, stable throughput and low latency are the main priorities, rather than the maximum clock speed of a single core.
5G and LDPC: the key to an advantage?
AMD highlights the improvement in performance regarding decoding LDPC (Low-Density Parity Check), which is the foundation of 5G networks. Better efficiency in this area can free up computational resources for L1 and L2 processing, which in practice allows for more network functions to run on a single server. It is in such scenarios that Sorano is expected to compete with solutions from Intel, which is developing the Xeon 6700E and Xeon 6 SoC lines. The 6700E model can scale up to 144 efficiency cores, focusing on density and lower power consumption at the expense of more advanced instruction features.
Intel is also integrating accelerators for vRAN and support for AI and multimedia processing into its chips. Importantly, companies like Ericsson and Nokia have been using Intel platforms in commercial deployments for years, making it difficult for AMD to quickly take over the market.
Last major Zen 5 before "Venice"?
Sorano may be the last significant representative of the server Zen 5 line before the launch of the new generation EPYC codenamed Venice, scheduled for 2026. However, the number of cores rarely influences purchases in the telecommunications sector; what matters is the total cost of implementation, compatibility, and long-term relationships with suppliers.
The new EPYC 8005 "Sorano" is a strong move by AMD towards 5G infrastructure and edge computing. With 84 Zen 5 cores and a focus on LDPC performance, it shows that the company wants to compete realistically with Intel in the telecommunications sector. The question is whether this will be enough to convince operators to change long-standing technological partnerships.
sources: techradar
