Processor Whispers: About 16 and 17-core processors

"With the unusual number of 17 cores, IBM's new BlueGene/Q processor draws attention. AMD's 16-core processor Interlagos might arrive a bit earlier than expected and the Itanium shows new signs of life.

"The "Heptakaideka-Core" processor BlueGene/Q, presented by IBM at the supercomputing conference SC10 in New Orleans, is intended to power the 20 Pflops computer Sequoia, which IBM is supposed to deliver to the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in about 2 years time. However, only 16 of its 17 cores are meant for computing, the extra core will handle control and I/O tasks. Actually, the BlueGene/Q has 18 cores, as there is a spare core that is used to improve the yield or the reliability during operation."

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