Intel Haswell: “Mobile computing is not limited to tiny, low-performing devices”

Update: Intel releases updated Haswell CPU roadmaps to production partners, say sources [DIGITIMES, Jan 18, 2013]

Intel reportedly has provided its production partners with updated roadmaps of its 22nm Haswell CPUs, which will be available in June, according to sources from the upstream supply chain.

The first wave of Haswell processors to be launched in the second quarter of 2013 will include Core i7-4770K, i7-4770, i7-4770S, i7-4770T, i7-4765T, i5-4670K, i5-4670, i5-4670S, i5-4670T, i5-4570, i5-4570S, i5-4570T, i5-4430 and i5- 4430S, the sources revealed.
[…K, …T and …S are all desktop processors just as the i5-4430; when the Haswell mobile processors with …M, …U and …Y will be available?]

Haswell-based Core i3-series CPUs [the Haswell mobile processors with …M, …U and …Y will be available here?] and high-end Ivy Bridge E processors will not be released until the third quarter, the sources added.

Along with the upcoming 22nm Haswell processors, Intel will also launch its Lynx Point 8-series chipsets, including the Z87, H87 and H81 for desktops and the Q87, Q85 and B85 for business platforms, said the sources.

– Intel set to announce Haswell processors at Computex 2013 [[DIGITIMES, Jan 21, 2013]

Intel is set to host a conference prior to Computex 2013 in June announcing its upcoming Haswell series processors jointly with downstream partners, according to sources from PC players.

The sources noted that the new CPUs will appear on June 2 and related PC products will be showcased at Computex, hosted from June 4-8.

Intel also internally forecasts the new CPU platform to account for 14-16% of its total CPU shipments in the third quarter, the sources noted.

Since consumer demand for Windows 8 is expected to start rising after the operating system has been launched for eight months, with the launch of the new CPU platform, the sources expect the PC market to start recovering in the third quarter.

Update: Third-generation ultrabooks may be able to achieve 40% of notebook shipments, say players [DIGITIMES, Dec 11, 2012]

As Intel failed to achieve its goal of having ultrabooks account for 40% of total notebook shipments with its Ivy Bridge platform, and the proportion only reached about 10%, sources from notebook players believe the goal may be achievable with the upcoming Haswell platform, which is set to launch at the end of second-quarter, 2013.

The sources pointed out that compared to Ivy Bridge, Haswell’s stronger performance and cheaper price, plus the expectation that Windows 8 should become more standardized by then, should mean ultrabooks have a chance to account for 40% of total notebook shipments by the end of 2013.

Although vendors have released ultra-like notebooks with prices around US$699-899 as alternatives, since these devices lack attractiveness in terms of design and weight, while ultrabook models with specifications similar to the MacBook Air have prices a lot higher than the MacBook Air, most consumers have turned to purchase Apple’s product instead, the sources noted.

Update: Intel progressing in development of 14nm technology, says CTO [DIGITIMES, Dec 5, 2012]

Intel CTO Justin Rattner on December 4 said that Intel’s development of 14nm technology is on schedule with volume production to kick off in one to two years and development of 18-inch wafers is under way through cooperation with partners.

Rattner also noted that Intel’s aggressiveness over technology advancement will allow Moore’s Law to extend for another 10 years.

At the end of 2013, Intel will enter the generation of 14nm CPUs (P1272 [process: a shrink from the previous P1270 22-nm process as well as a reduction in power consumption]) and SoCs (1273), while expanding its investments at its D1X Fab in Oregon, and Fab 42 in Arizona, the US and Fab 24 in Ireland, and will gradually enter 10nm, 7nm and 5nm process generations starting 2015.

As for Intel’s competitors, Samsung is already set to enter 20nm in 2013 and is already working on its 14nm node, while Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) 20nm process will enter small volume production in the second half of 2013 with the first 3D-based FPGA chips to also start.

Globalfoundries has previously announced its 14nm FinFET process will start pilot production at the end of 2013 and enter mass production in 2014.

As for 18-inch wafers, Intel has invested in Holland-based ASML for its EUV technology, and related technologies are expected to start entering production in 2017.

“Mobile computing is not limited to tiny, low-performing devices”. That was Intel’s battle cry two months ago when its next-generation core, aka Haswell was introduced, see at the very end of this video report:

IDF 2012: Intel shows new Haswell chips [networkworld YouTube channel, Sept 11, 2012]

Intel’s David (Dadi) Perlmutter showed demonstrations of systems running on its new Haswell processor, due in 2013, at the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco on Sept. 11. … The technology demo of Haswell vs the 3d generation Ivy Bridge shows the same core performance but running at less then half the power … “Next year we are going to fit the best performing graphics and media capabilities on mother earth that will fit into extremely thin, extremely nice, extremely sneak form factor. So mobile computing is not limited to tiny, low-performing devices”.

A detailed analysis published 2 days ago (Nov 13)  concluded:

Intel’s Sandy Bridge core served as an impressive starting point, with unmatched performance in the x86 ecosystem. Haswell builds on this foundation, with powerful ISA extensions and a substantially more aggressive execution core and cache hierarchy. Moreover, Haswell is the first Intel core that will take full advantage of the 22nm FinFET process technology. While the Ivy Bridge graphics architecture is new, the CPU core was mostly unchanged. More importantly, the circuit design was focused on a low-risk and faster migration to a new process, rather than achieving peak performance, efficiency or density.

…

Overall, we estimate that a Haswell core will offer around 10% greater performance for existing software, compared to Sandy Bridge. For workloads using the new extensions, the gains could be significantly higher. In theory, AVX2 and FMA can boost performance by 2×, but the impact on most vectorizable workloads will be much lower. Research from AMD has shown that lock elision gains 30% for the right workloads, although the benefits depend strongly on the actual concurrency.

…

Haswell will be the first big x86 core to compete against ARM-based cores in tablets. While the performance will be dramatically higher, the power budgets are very different. Haswell SoCs will reach 10W, while competing solutions are often closer to 4W. The real question is the relative efficiency of Haswell SoCs, and the advantage of the massive x86 software ecosystem. Fortunately, Windows 8 provides an opportunity to accurately measure performance and efficiency. The results will inject some hard data into discussions that have been otherwise vacuous and largely driven by marketing.

For details see the whole Intel’s Haswell CPU Microarchitecture [Real World Tech, Nov 13, 2012] article.

The next-generation Haswell was presented at the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco as (source):

• 4th Generation Intel Core Microprocessor, built on 22 nm process technology
• Next Generation Intel HD Graphics with Microsoft DirectX 11.1, Open GL 4.0, OpenCL 1.2 support
• Significant 3D and media performance improvement
• Three Simultaneous Display, HDMI, DisplayPort, with high-resolution up-to 4Kx2K

Abbreviations: PEG – PCI Express Graphics; IMC – Integrated Memory Controller; LLC – Last Level Cache; DMI – Direct Media Interface; DDR3L (2 channels) – Double Data Rate type THREE (3) synchronous dynamic random access memory Low-voltage; 4Kx2K – 4096 x 2160 native resolution corresponding to the highest LCD Monitor resolution such as the 36.4″ (92 cm) DuraVision FDH3601, the highest resolution of the Digital cinema, as well as 4K UHDTV (also called 2160p).

Then it goes into different type of client platforms, code named Shark Bay as follows (leaked by a Chinese “bigpao007” user information):

which means the following incorporation varieties of the Haswell into the various Shark Bay client platforms:

• The standard voltage (SV) quad-core Haswell-QC with GT3/GT2 graphics core
• The standard voltage (SV) dual-core Haswell-DC with GT2/GT1 graphics core
• and the Lynx Point-H PCH (Platform Controller Hub) separate chip for both of them 
• The ultra low voltage (ULV now renamed ULT – probably for ULTra) dual-core Haswell ULT with GT3/GT2/GT1 graphics core and Lynx Point-LP PCH (Platform Controller Hub) within the same Multi-Chip Package (MCP, also called MCM – Multi-Chip Module)
• Wireless networking modules code-named Wilkins Peak with the top level “Wilkins Peak 2” supporting 2T2R (2 Transmitter, 2 Receiver) 802.11ac and Bluetooth. Intel should also support 2.4GHz and 5GHz dual-band, and the theoretical peak speed is 1750Mbps (1300Mbps +450 Mbps). The new module will be backward compatible with the current 802.11b/g/n.
• Gigabit Ethernet LAN controller chips code-named Clarkville specifically Clarkville-LM for which no more information known yet

Which means the following essential difference:

Skyrim running @ 1080p on 4th gen Intel core with Intel HD Graphics “GT3” (codename) [channelintel YouTube channel, Oct 18, 2012]

Missed IDF SFO 2012? Check out Skyrim running @ 1080p on new level of Intel Graphics (code name “GT3”) on 4th gen core based mobile PC (reference platform)

From The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Wikipedia article:

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an action role-playing open world video game developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. It is the fifth installment in The Elder Scrolls action role-playing video game series, following The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Skyrim was released on November 11, 2011 for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. … Skyrim is powered by Bethesda’s own Creation Engine, a new engine created prior to Skyrim‘s release.^[25][26]

Intel Corporation’s CEO Discusses Q3 2012 Results – Earnings Call Transcript [Seeking Alpha, Oct 16, 2012]

…

Last month at IDF, we shared details of our next-generation Core processor codenamed Haswell. Originally targeted at 15 watts, we have made significant advancements in micro-architecture and process technology that will allow us to move Haswell down into the 10 watt envelope fostering even more innovation in form factor as well as new usage models like gesture computing and voice recognition.

…

… we expect an increase in inventory reserves as we start production on our next-generation micro-architecture product codenamed Haswell which we expect to qualify for sale in the first quarter of 2013.

…

Q: … you said you expect to qualify Haswell in the March quarter, will Haswell be appearing in systems in the March quarter or should we look for that a bit later in the year?

Paul Otellini – President & CEO

The first half.

Intel’s David (Dadi) Perlmutter talks Haswell, perceptual computing [EE Times YouTube channel, Sept 12, 2012]

Intel’s general manager of architecture talks about the firm’s upcoming fourth generation core microprocessor, Haswell, and some of the new functionality it will enable on upcoming ultrabooks, including gesture and voice recognition.

Intel CPO Talks About Haswell Progress and More in IDF Keynote [Intel® Premier IT Professionals, Sept 11, 2012]

What’s a CPO?

Chief Product Officer. And at Intel that is Dadi Perlmutter who is also an executive vice-president.

He delivered today’s opening keynote at the Intel Developer Forum (IDF) on Collaborating to Shape the Future from Datacenter to Devices. So while developers are the key focus on this conference, there are topics that are of interest to IT professionals as well.

Instead of the rah-rah of some of the previous IDFs, Perlmutter began with a subdued acknowledgment of the 9/11 anniversary. That subdued approach carried over to much of the rest of his presentation as there were no big new product unveilings…only a progress report on offerings Intel has already announced.

Briefly, here’s the status report:

• The 4^th generation Intel Core, aka Haswell, is on track for launching next year. It is designed with mobility in mind, based on 22 nm technology, will have 20X [reduced] connected standby power [over the 2nd generation, and initially operating at about 10 watts], and delivers demonstrably smoother graphics.

• New Ultrabooks based on the 4^th generation processor will be thinner and faster, and will include Windows 8 in detachable, convertible, clamshell and other innovative form factors.

• Intel is making progress on interactive PC experiences with a natural conversation beta using Nuance Dragon this year and moving into production in Q1 2012. Dragon runs native on the platform because it requires the high-performance of the CPU.

• There are 20+ Atom Cloverdale chip tablets design wins coming with or shortly after the Windows 8 launch.

• Smartphones based on the Intel Atom have launched with five partners and Intel says they are making steady progress with a competitive roadmap for smartphones.

As usual, there were some cool demos.

• Gary Flood, President Global Products and Services of MasterCard demonstrated the company’s PayPass Wallet utilizing Intel Identity Protection Technology in conducting a secure traction using Near Field Communications (NFC) on an Ultrabook.

• Dadi showed a new intelligent Coca-Cola machine with a QR Reader, microphone, camera, and wifi. Designed by SIA, the intelligent system utilizes the Core i7.

• Gesture recognition with a 3D camera connected via USB showed natural hand and finger movements.

Dadi didn’t even use the term “compute continuum” this year—which was the focus of CEO Paul Otellini’s keynote last year. But, in what was probably the biggest news for the developer audience, he announced a $1 million Perceptual Computing Developer Challenge. “Perceptual computing” is all about ways you can interact with a computer beyond the keyboard and mouse, like voice, gesture, facial analysis, and more. Details for the contest and a free copy of the Intel Perceptual Computing SKD 2013 Beta are at intel.com/software/perceptual.

Note that the below article is based on the June 5, 2012 BIOS Enabling Rev 1.0 presentation from the BIOS Application Engineering Team of the Ultrabook for Shark Bay Platform Enabling (put online on the German 3Dcenter.org on Nov 9, 2012):
Intel Haswell ULT Processors Power Saving Features and Lynx Point-LP Chipset Detailed [WCCF Tech, Nov 12, 2012]

Intel’s Haswell ULT (Low Power) processors would be featuring new and improved features which would help them maintain a low power draw without sacrificing much of their performance. These features have been detailed along with the Lynx Point-LP chipset which would support the Haswell ULT Mobile processors.

Haswell ULT Low Power – 24 MHz BCLK and C9/C10 Support

Back at IDF 2012, Intel demonstrated an Haswell chip which was capable of running an Unigine Heaven demo with a power draw of only 7.5 Watt. That is one significant improvement in power efficiency compared to its 22nm Ivy Bridge architecture. What helps Haswell ULT maintain such a lowerdraw, the answer is support for a new 24 MHz BCLK which will put the CPU at a standby operating frequency of 192 MHz at idle mode, once the user puts the CPU back in working mode the Haswell ULT chip would be restored to normal settings through software correction.

Haswell ULT CPUs would also arrive with new C-State modes – C8, C9, C10. All three of which would only be available on ULT chips and not the desktop or normal mobile variants. In this state, the Haswell ULT would trigger Off state for VccIO and in C9/C10 state, the voltage would go down to 0V minimizing power draw to the max limit.

Haswell and Lynx Point Cross Thermal Management

Since Haswell ULT is a complete SOC (System On Chip), the Lynx Point-LP chipset and the CPU would be cross connected for easier thermal management between both. For instance, if the Lynx Point-LP exceeds its Tjmax limit, a signal would be sent to the Haswell-ULT issuing PCHHOT warning signal. Lynx Point-LP, to increase power efficiency gets rid of CPU overclocking, SATA IDE mode and DMI/FDI/PECI controllers. Lynx Point-LP upto 6 PCI-e 2.0 x16 lanes but doesn’t offer support for PCI-e 3.0. VGA output have been removed from the PCH, so you would have to rely on either DVI or HDMI for display connectivity. Connectivity on the Lynx Point-LP chipset includes 8 USB 2.0 ports, 4 USB 3.0 ports, 3 SATA III ports and integrated HD Audio.

Overall, Haswell ULT and Haswell is looking as a nice improvement to Ivy bridge when it comes to power efficiency and graphics improvement. The Haswell ULT and Haswell U Processors arrive in Q2 2013 whereas the desktop Haswell processors along with the 8 Series Lynx Point Motherboards are expected to debut in April 2013.

…

Preliminary roadmap information given out under NDA by Intel at the same time was also 3 days ago put  on the German 3Dcenter.org online from the June 5, 2012 Shark Bay Haswell ULT/Lynx Point-LP -Intel® ME 9.5 FW Features Overview Rev 1.1 presentation:

In August there was the following roadmap leak as well which seems to be less than the above one: Intel’s Fourth Generation Haswell Mobile Processors to Launch in Q2 2013, New Ivy Bridge Mobile Chips in Q4 2012 [WCCF Tech, August 7, 2012]

The latest Intel roadmap leak has confirmed that Haswell M-Series (Mobile) processors would launch in 1H of 2013 along with newer Ivy Bridge mobile chips in Q4 2012 and Q1 of 2013.

The roadmap shows that Intel’s fourth generation processors known as Haswell would launch in Q2/Q3 2013 featuring a new 22nm Tri-gate architecture which would bring improved IPC performance over Ivy Bridge.