AMD introduces the fifth generation of its Epyc Embedded processors, based on the Zen 5 architecture, with improved performance, energy efficiency, and a longer lifecycle for network, storage, and industrial edge applications.
AMD introduces the Epyc Embedded 9005 Series processors. The chips are based on the Zen 5c architecture and include optimizations for network, storage, and industrial edge applications. With the new processors, AMD provides improved performance, energy efficiency, and a longer lifecycle.
The AMD Epyc Embedded 9005 Series processors are available in configurations with eight to 192 cores in a single socket. According to AMD, they offer up to 1.3 times more processing capacity for network tasks and up to 1.6 times more for storage applications compared to the previous generation. AMD is therefore targeting applications such as firewalls, storage servers, and industrial control systems.
Efficiency
The processors support up to 6 TB of DDR5 memory per socket and feature 160 PCIe Gen5 lanes with CXL 2.0 support. AMD builds the chips with the Zen 5c architecture. This is a derivative of Zen 5 that is more efficient. AMD estimates that the chips offer 1.3 times higher performance per watt compared to Intel equivalents, based on their own research.
The Epyc Embedded 9005 processors are designed for long-term use in embedded systems. AMD therefore guarantees seven years of product support.
For security, the processor supports Dual SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface), which allows loading a custom and secure bootloader. DRAM Flush prevents data loss during power failures by writing data from working memory to non-volatile memory.
First Devices and Availability
AMD is already working with OEMs and ODMs, including Cisco and IBM, to integrate the new processors into their products. Cisco is using the EPYC Embedded 9005 Series in a firewall product due to its scalability and high processing capacity. IBM is integrating the processor into its Storage Scale System 6000 for AI and data-intensive workloads.
The processors are currently available to selected customers. The broader market introduction is planned for the second quarter of 2025. The new chips use the same SP5 socket as the previous generation.