Intel announced on August 7, 2024 that the Intel 18A (AI PC Client Processor) and Clearwater Forest (server process) products are now out of the factory and powered on with booted up operating systems.
Features of Intel 18A Processor
Intel stated that it will achieve this in less than two-quarters after tape out, and both products are on track to begin production in 2025. Intel also announced that it expects the first customer to tape out the Intel 18A in first half of 2019.
Intel Foundry was the first foundry to successfully implement RibbonFET gate all-around transistors as well as PowerVia technology on the backside for its customers.
Intel’s EDA partners and IP providers are updating their design flow and tools after gaining access to Intel 18A PDK 1.0. This will allow external foundry customers begin designing Intel 18A chips. This is an important milestone for Intel’s foundry business.
The company stated that these core Intel 18A technology enable greater processor efficiency and scale, which are required to drive AI computing forward.
RibbonFET enables tight control of the electrical current within the transistor channel. This allows further miniaturisation and reduces power leakage.
PowerVia optimizes signal routing through the separation of power delivery on the front surface of the wafer. This reduces resistance and improves power efficiency.
The company said that “together, these technologies demonstrate an impressive combination which could lead to significant gains in computing performance as well as battery life for future electronic devices.”
We are pioneering multiple system foundry technologies in the AI era, and we deliver a full-stack of innovation essential for the next generation products for Intel and foundry customers. Our progress is encouraging and we are working with customers to bring the processor on the market by 2025,” said Kevin O’Buckley. Intel SVP and GM Foundry Services.
