In an exciting development, Intel has announced significant milestones with its latest products on the Intel 18A process technology. The AI-focused PC client processor, Panther Lake, and the server processor, Clearwater Forest, have successfully powered on and booted operating systems.
Achieving these milestones in less than two quarters after tape-out is a remarkable feat, with both products on track for production by 2025. In another groundbreaking move, Intel has revealed that the first external customer is expected to tape out on the Intel 18A in the first half of next year.
Why These Milestones Matter
These achievements underscore Intel Foundry’s pioneering role in implementing advanced technologies like RibbonFET gate-all-around transistors and PowerVia backside power delivery for its foundry customers. Through advanced EDA and IP tools and process flows Intel is making these innovations available to a wider audience via Intel 18A. This positions Intel at the forefront of technological advancements, setting a strong foundation for future developments.
Understanding the Technology: RibbonFET and PowerVia
RibbonFET
RibbonFET represents a major leap in transistor technology. By allowing tight control over the electrical current in the transistor channel, RibbonFET enables further miniaturization of chip components while reducing power leakage. This is crucial as chips become increasingly dense, making it possible to pack more power into smaller spaces without sacrificing performance.
PowerVia
PowerVia optimizes signal routing by separating power delivery from the front side of the wafer. This innovation reduces resistance and improves power efficiency, which is essential for enhancing the performance and battery life of future electronic devices. By combining RibbonFET and PowerVia, Intel is set to deliver substantial gains in computing performance, making it a win for foundry customers worldwide.
The Health of Intel 18A
The ability of Panther Lake and Clearwater Forest to boot operating systems without additional configurations or modifications is a clear indicator of the robustness of Intel 18A. Other signs of its health include Panther Lake’s DDR memory performance, which is already running at target frequency. The upcoming Clearwater Forest is poised to be the industry’s first mass-produced, high-performance solution that integrates RibbonFET, PowerVia, and Foveros Direct 3D technologies for higher density and improved power handling.
Customer Involvement: A Collaborative Effort
Intel’s EDA and IP partners gained access to the Intel 18A PDK 1.0 last month, a critical step that enables external foundry customers to begin their Intel 18A chip designs. This collaboration is a significant milestone for Intel’s foundry business, as it updates tools and design flows to support the next generation of chip designs.
The Future of AI Computing and Electronic Devices
The advancements in Intel 18A technology, driven by RibbonFET and PowerVia, are not just technical achievements; they are foundational innovations that will propel AI computing and electronic devices forward. These technologies enable greater processor scale and efficiency, essential for the next wave of AI and machine learning applications. As Intel continues to lead with these innovations, the impact on computing performance and energy efficiency will be profound, benefiting consumers and industries alike.
In conclusion, Intel’s recent milestones with Intel 18A technology mark a significant step towards reclaiming process leadership by 2025. The combination of RibbonFET and PowerVia technologies promises to revolutionize the future of computing, making it an exciting time for both Intel and its customers.
