Katarzyna Petru
AMD has presented a new series of EPYC 8005 server processors, known by the codename Sorano. The chips were designed for telecommunications infrastructure and edge environments, where low latency, high predictability, and energy efficiency are crucial. The strongest models offer up to 84 Zen 5 cores, which is a significant leap compared to the previous Siena generation.
84 Zen 5 cores and up to 225 W TDP
Sorano expands the EPYC family based on the Zen 5 architecture. The processors offer up to 84 cores with a maximum power consumption of 225 W. However, AMD suggests that, as in previous generations, there will also be variants with a 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 primarily important, not the maximum clock speed of a single core.
Is 5G and LDPC the key to an advantage?
AMD emphasizes the improvement in the performance of decoding LDPC (Low-Density Parity Check), which is the foundation of 5G network operations. Better efficiency in this area can free up computational resources for processing L1 and L2 layers, which in practice allows for running more network functions 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 efficient cores, focusing on density and lower power consumption at the expense of more advanced instruction features.
Additionally, Intel integrates accelerators for vRAN and support for AI and multimedia processing in its chips. Importantly, companies like Ericsson and Nokia have been using Intel's 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 line Zen 5 before the launch of the next generation EPYC codenamed Venice, scheduled for 2026. However, the number of cores alone rarely decides purchases in the telecommunications sector; total implementation costs, compatibility, and long-term relationships with suppliers matter.
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, the company aims to realistically compete 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
