The Linux 6.6 kernel version seems to be delivering significant performance improvements for AMD EPYC server CPUs according to Phoronix. Tests conducted on Genoa and Genoa-X processors as well as Intel Xeon Scalable “Sapphire Rapids” processors showed that the performance of AMD EPYC servers was greatly enhanced with Linux 6.6 compared to Linux 6.5 stable. The improvements were especially notable for certain workloads.

The Linux 6.6 kernel introduces the EEVDF scheduler and workqueue enhancements that benefit chiplet-based CPUs with multiple L3 caches, such as those used by AMD. Overall, the new features in Linux 6.6 seem to be positively impacting AMD server CPU performance.

Source: Phoronix.

AMD has launched the AMD EPYC 8004 “Siena” processors for “intelligent edge” servers, according to Phoronix. These processors offer a lower price point while maximizing power efficiency and expanding EPYC’s deployment outside of data centers. The Siena processors have up to 64 cores / 128 threads per socket, support up to six channels of DDR5 memory, and are designed for edge computing and telco markets. They use the new “SP6” socket and have a range of TDPs from 70 Watts to 225 Watts. The EPYC 8004 series consists of P and PN parts, with PN parts being NEBS friendly. The pricing ranges from $409 to $5450 USD. The performance and power efficiency of the EPYC 8004 series are competitive against Xeon Scalable “Sapphire Rapids” processors. The processors offer the same ISA features as Genoa (-X) and Bergamo, including AVX-512, and support SMT. Overall, the EPYC 8004 series processors are complementary to Genoa (-X) and Bergamo, filling the gap between them and Ryzen for budget-minded and SOHO/SMB server deployments.

Source: Phoronix.