Intel is preparing a significant overhaul of its desktop CPU lineup with the upcoming Nova Lake processors, alongside new Z990 and Z970 chipsets. Leaked specifications and early reports suggest a substantial increase in core counts and a new architectural approach aimed at boosting performance and efficiency. The launch is anticipated to follow the Core Ultra 200S (Arrow Lake) series, potentially branding the new processors as Core Ultra 300S.
Nova Lake: A Shift in Architecture
Unlike Arrow Lake, which utilizes Lion Cove P-cores and Skymont E-cores, Nova Lake is expected to feature cutting-edge Coyote Cove P-cores paired with Arctic Wolf E-cores. A key architectural change is the introduction of LPE-cores to the desktop platform. These cores were first seen in Intel’s mobile Core Ultra Series 1 (Meteor Lake) processors and represent a further optimization of the Arctic Wolf E-cores.
LPE-cores are designed for extremely low-power workloads and background tasks. Integrated within the SoC tile, they represent the lowest tier in the core hierarchy, allowing Intel to dedicate specific cores to specific tasks and enhance overall power efficiency. This tiered approach aims to optimize performance by matching the workload to the most appropriate core type.
Core Counts Reach New Heights
The most striking aspect of the Nova Lake architecture is the potential for significantly increased core counts. The desktop variant, Nova Lake-S, is rumored to support a maximum configuration of 16 P-cores, 32 E-cores and 4 LPE-cores, totaling 52 cores per socket. This configuration is expected to be reserved for the top-tier Core Ultra 9 SKUs.
The core configurations are expected to vary across different product tiers. Core Ultra 7 SKUs are anticipated to feature a 14P+24E+4LPE configuration (42 cores total), achieved by disabling two P-cores and two E-core clusters, along with a reduction in L3 cache. The Core Ultra 5 series is poised for a substantial upgrade, with top K/KF models potentially offering an 8P+16E+4LPE configuration (28 cores). This represents a significant increase in core count compared to previous generations.
Cache and Power Considerations
The top-end Core Ultra 9 SKUs are expected to boast a massive 144MB L3 cache, which should provide a noticeable benefit to gaming workloads. These high-performance chips are also expected to have a processor base power of 150W for unlocked K or KF models.
Intel is structuring the cache hierarchy such that the P-cores and E-core clusters share an L3 cache, while the LPE cores operate independently within a low-power island located in the SoC region of the chip. This separation allows for optimized power management for background tasks handled by the LPE cores.
New Chipsets on the Horizon
Accompanying the Nova Lake processors will be the Z990 and Z970 chipsets. , Intel is preparing these enthusiast-level chipsets to support the new processors and their advanced features. Details regarding the specific features and improvements offered by these chipsets are still emerging, but they are expected to provide the necessary infrastructure for unlocking the full potential of Nova Lake.
Implications and Future Outlook
The Nova Lake processors represent a significant step forward for Intel in the desktop CPU market. The increased core counts, coupled with the introduction of LPE-cores and a refined architectural approach, position Intel to compete effectively with AMD’s Ryzen processors. The focus on power efficiency, particularly through the use of LPE-cores, could also appeal to users seeking a balance between performance and energy consumption.
The launch of Nova Lake and the accompanying Z990 and Z970 chipsets is expected to drive innovation in the desktop PC space, offering users more powerful and efficient computing options. The shift towards higher core counts and heterogeneous core architectures suggests a continuing trend in the industry, as manufacturers strive to deliver ever-increasing performance and efficiency.
