Intel has added a couple of high-end server chips to its high-longevity embedded parts roadmap. Now shipping with seven-year lifecycle guarantees and a new “power-optimized” 5100 chipset, the quad-core Xeon 5400 and dual-core Xeon 5200 are fabricated with Intel's new 45nm process and high-K, metal gate transistor formula.

Designed for the embedded, communications and storage markets, the new long lifecycle Xeons are ideal for storage, routers, security and medical solutions, says Intel. They meet 200 Watt maximum power envelope specifications such as AdvancedTCA and NEBS Level-3, and will reportedly be used by Ericsson in IMS (IP multimedia subsystem) servers.

The new Xeons are intended to be coupled with a new 5100 MCH chipset, creating what Intel calls “the first 45nm CPU platforms for thermally constrained bladed applications.”

Intel 5100 MCH chipset block diagram
(Click to enlarge)

Stated Doug Davis, VP and GM of Intel's Embedded and Communications Group, “The 45nm quad-core processors allow for a 22 percent performance gain over previous-generation platforms within the same thermal profile.”

Availability

The two 5400 series models (E5440 and L5408) and two of the three 5200 series models (E5240 and E5220) are available now, with prices ranging from $321 to $690. The dual-core Xeon L5238 will be available in April. The Intel 5100 MCH chipset is also available today, starting at $76.

 
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