“Processor i7”

ABSTRACT

The Intel Core i7 processor is the latest in cutting edge processor with fastest, intelligent, multi

core technology for the desktop PC.

Intel Core i7 processor delivers four complete execution cores within a single processor,

delivering unprecedented performance and responsiveness in multi-threaded and multi-tasking

business and home use environments.

More instructions can be carried out per clock cycle, shorter and wider pipelines execute

commands more quickly, and improved bus lanes move data throughout the system faster. Their

performance is almost always higher, which is especially evident in case of multi-threaded load and

their power consumption is comparable with that of their predecessors.

Over clocking the core i7 processors also seems to be easier. Servers will also likely benefit

greatly from using an i7 - the memory bandwidth is simply insane. Core i7 is first processor using

Nehalem Micro-architecture, with faster, intelligent, multi-core technology that applies processing

power where it's needed most, new Intel Core i7 processors deliver an incredible breakthrough in PC

performance. They are the best desktop processor family on the planet. It is the combination of Intel

Turbo Boost technology and Intel Hyper-Threading technology, which maximizes performance to

match our workload.

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“Processor i7”

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 What is Processor ?

A processor is multipurpose, programmable device that read binary instructions from memory,

accepts binary data as input and processes data according to that instruction, and provides results as

output.

It can be viewed as data processing unit of a computer. It has computing and decision-making

capability.

1.2 Generation of Processor

In this section we discuss main generations of processor of Intel family.

Intel 80386:

Intel 80836 is the first 32-bit microprocessor incorporating several main frame

computer Features. It has extensive memory management capabilities. Semiconductor manufacturing

process technology used is 1.0µm (micrometer).It has integrated memory management unit.

Intel 80486:

It is the first Intel microprocessor with internal cache memory. It instruction

pipeline is more sophisticated than that of 80386 specially. Internal data conversion logic for both 8 bit

subsystem and 16-bit subsystem. Semiconductor manufacturing process technology used is 1.0µm and

0.8µm (micrometer).

Pentium processor:

The Pentium is highly sophisticated compared to 80486. Pentium processor has several new

feature as compared to 80486; they are Superscalar architecture, Power management, 3.3v operation.

Pentium Processor is also abbreviated as Pentium Pro. Semiconductor manufacturing process

technology used is 0.8µm and 0.6µm and 0.35µm (micrometer).

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“Processor i7”

Pentium II processor:

The Pentium II is a Pentium pro with on chip MMX. It has four low power states: Auto halt,

Stop Grant, Sleep and Deep sleep. Available also as a boxed processor along with heat sink.

Semiconductor manufacturing process technology used is 0.35µm and 0.25µm (micrometer).

Pentium III processor:

The dual processing Pentium Xeon processor is now available at speeds upto 1 GHz and

provides best choice for the entry to mid- range servers and workstations Solution. It utilizes a 133

MHz system bus. Semiconductor manufacturing process technology used is 0.25µm and 0.18µm

(micrometer).

Pentium 4 processor:

The Pentium 4 microprocessor is externally superior microprocessor based on The Intel Net

Burst micro-architecture. The Pentium 4 microprocessor provides high performance for high end

applications. Semiconductor manufacturing process technology used is 0.18µm and

0.13µm(micrometer)and 90nm and 65nm(nanometer).

Core processor:

Core processor means it having more than one core working simultaneously to complete the

operation within time. It uses the size of manufacture technology 65 nm. It includes dual core

processor and core to duo processor. Semiconductor manufacturing process technology used is 65nm

(nanometer).

Core 2 processor:

Core 2 processor uses quad core architecture. It uses the 65nm and 45nm size of core size. As it

is quad core so 4 cores working simultaneously to work faster. Semiconductor manufacturing process

technology used is 65nm (nanometer).

Core i7 processor:

Core i7 processor also uses four core. It is the fastest processor on the planet. Semiconductor

manufacturing process technology used is 45 nm (nanometer).

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“Processor i7”

2. INTEL CORE i7

Core i7 is first processor using Nehalem Micro-architecture,

with faster, intelligent, multi-core technology that applies processing

power where it's needed most, new Intel Core i7 processors deliver an

incredible breakthrough in PC performance. They are the best desktop

processor family on the planet.

You will multitask applications faster and unleash incredible digital media creation. And you'll

experience maximum performance for everything you do, thanks to the combination of Intel Turbo

Boost technology and Intel Hyper-Threading technology, which maximizes performance to match your

workload. Following figure shows internal representation of core i7 processor.

Fig.01 - Internal representation of processor i7

Among the key peculiarities of the new CPU we absolutely have to point out the following:

Native quad-core structure. Single processor die contains four cores with 32-KB L1 cache for

each and 256KB L2 cache each and 8MB shared L3 cache for all of them.

Memory controller built into the CPU supports triple-channel DDR3 SDRAM. Each channel

can work with two unbuffered DIMM modules.

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“Processor i7”

There is SMT (Simultaneous Multithreading) technology It allows each Core i7 core to process

two computational threads simultaneously, so the operating system sees the processor as an 8-

core one.

Integrated PCU microcontroller that independently adjusts voltages and core frequencies and

can automatically over-clock some cores when others aren’t loaded too heavily.

Core i7 is manufactured with 45nm process, consists of 731 million transistors.

Nehalem is the codename for an Intel processor micro-architecture, successor to the Core

micro-architecture. The first processor released with the Nehalem architecture is the desktop Core i7.

Various sources have stated the specifications of processors in the Nehalem family:

Two, four, six, or eight cores

o 731 million transistors for the quad core variant

45 nm manufacturing process

Integrated memory controller supporting two or three memory channels of DDR3 SDRAM

Simultaneous multithreading (SMT) by multiple cores which enables two threads per core.

Intel calls this hyper-threading.

Native (monolithic, i.e. all processor cores on a single die) quad- and octa-core processors.

The following caches:

o 32 KB L1 instruction and 32 KB L1 data cache per core.

o 256 KB L2 cache per core.

o 4–8 MB L3 cache shared by all cores

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“Processor i7”

3. FEATURES AND BENEFITS

3.1 Quad-Core Processor:

Provides four complete execution cores in a single processor with 256KB of L2 cache and

8MB of L3 cache. Eight dedicated, physical threads help operating systems and applications deliver

additional performance, so end users can experience better multi-tasking and multi-threaded

performance across many types of applications and workloads.

3.2 8 MB Intel Smart Cache:

This large last-level cache enables dynamic and efficient allocation of shared cache to all four

cores to match the needs of various applications for ultra efficient data storage and manipulation. It

provides a higher-performance, more efficient cache subsystem. Optimized for industry leading multi-

threaded games.

3.3 Intel Hyper-Threading Technology:

The processor supports Intel Hyper-Threading Technology which allows an execution core to

function as two logical processors. While some execution resources such as caches, execution units,

and buses are shared, each logical processor has its own architectural state with its own set of general-

purpose registers and control registers.

This feature must be enabled using the BIOS and requires operating system support. Intel

recommends enabling Hyper-Threading Technology with Microsoft Windows Vista, Microsoft

Windows XP Professional/Windows XP Home, and disabling Hyper-Threading Technology using the

BIOS for all previous versions of Windows operating systems.

3.4 Intel 64-bit architecture:

Intel 64-bit architecture delivers 64-bit computing on server, workstation, desktop and mobile

platforms when combined with supporting software. Intel 64 architecture improves performance by

allowing systems to address more than 4 GB of both virtual and physical memory.

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“Processor i7”

3.5 Intel Turbo Boost Technology:

Intel Turbo Boost Technology is one of the many exciting new

features that Intel has built into core i7 processor. It automatically allows

processor cores to run faster than the base operating frequency if it's

operating below power, current, and temperature specification limits.

The maximum frequency of Intel Turbo Boost Technology is dependent on the number of

active cores. The amount of time the processor spends in the Intel Turbo Boost Technology state

depends on the workload and operating environment, providing the performance you need, when and

where you need it.

Any of the following can set the upper limit of Intel Turbo Boost Technology on a given

workload:

Number of active cores

Estimated current consumption

Estimated power consumption

Processor temperature

No special hardware support is necessary for Intel Turbo Boost Technology. BIOS and the

operating system can enable or disable Intel Turbo Boost Technology.

3.6 Integrated memory controller:

Integrated memory controller enables three channels of DDR3 1066 MHz memory, resulting in

up to 25.6 GB/sec memory bandwidth. This memory controller's lower latency and higher memory

bandwidth delivers amazing performance for data-intensive applications.

3.7 Enhanced Intel Speed-Step Technology:

Running a processor at high clock speeds allows for better performance. However, when the

same processor is run at a lower frequency, it generates less heat and consumes less power. In many

cases, the core voltage can also be reduced, Further reducing power.

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“Processor i7”

4. SPECIFICATIONS AND INSTRUCTION SET

4.1 Specifications:

Clock frequency 2.66 GHz to 3.33GHz

Code name “Bloomfield” & “Lynnfield”

Cores 4

Core Stepping C0

Core Voltage 1.18V-1.21V

Bus/Core Ratio 20

Thermal Specification 62.2°C

Typical heat(thermal design power) 105 W

Manufacturing technology 45 nm

No of Transistors 731 million

Chipset support Express 58

Instruction set MMX,SSE,SSE2,SSE3,

SSSE3,SSE4

Intel Hyper-Threading Technology Yes

Intel Turbo Boost Technology Yes

Intel Virtualization Technology Yes

Enhanced Intel Speed Step Technology Yes

Execute Disable Bit Yes

Intel 64-bit architecture Yes

Intel smart cache 8MB

Processor Integrated Memory Controller Yes

Number of Memory Channels 3 (DDR3 1066 MHz)

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“Processor i7”

4.2 Instruction Set:

An instruction set is a list of all the instructions, and all their variations, that a processor can

execute. A single instruction, multiple data (SIMD) machine is one in which a single instruction stream

has the ability to process multiple data streams simultaneously. These machines are useful in

applications such as general digital signal processing, image processing, and multimedia applications

such as audio and video. Originally, supercomputers known as array processors or vector processors

provided SIMD processing capabilities. Almost all computers today implement some form of SIMD

instruction set.

Intel core i7 processors implement the MMX, Streaming SIMD Extensions (SSE), Streaming

SIMD Extensions 2 (SSE2), and Streaming SIMD Extensions 3 (SSE3), Supplemental Streaming

SIMD Extensions 3(SSSE4), Streaming SIMD Extensions 4(SSE4) instruction sets that are capable of

processing multiple data elements in a single clock. The multiple data elements are stored in the

floating point registers. A multiple instruction, multiple data (MIMD) machine is capable of is

executing multiple instruction streams, while working on a separate and independent data stream. The

instruction set MMX is 64-bit instruction set. The instruction set SSE is 128-bit instruction set.

Name Description

MMX MMX SIMD instructions

SSE Streaming SIMD Extensions (SSE) instructions

SSE2 Streaming SIMD Extensions 2 instructions

SSE3 Streaming SIMD Extensions 3 instructions

SSSE3 Supplemental Streaming SIMD Extensions 3 instructions

SSE4 Streaming SIMD Extensions 4 instructions

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“Processor i7”

5. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

5.1 Advantages:

Big cache size:

This processor has 8 Mb last level caches shared among four cores. This helps to increase

Instruction execution speed.

Very fast:

Using the combination of Intel Turbo Boost Technology and Intel Hyper-Threading

Technology processor speed is becomes faster. It is very fast processor as compared to other processor.

Better cooling system:

A 4-pin connector is included for fan speed control to help minimize the acoustic noise levels

generated from running the fan at higher speeds for thermal performance. For the cooling of processor

it provides Cooler running technology, less heat and less noise. Supplied with Intel reference heat-sink

& fan, as temperature increase speed of fan get become increase.

5.2 Disadvantages

Cost:

The main disadvantage of core i7 processor is its cost, It a expensive processor as compared to

previous processor. Its cost is over 15000 Rs.

Power Consumption:

Power consumption of core i7 processor is not better as compared with the core 2 duo

processors.

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“Processor i7”

6. COMPARISON BETWEEN i3, i5 and i7

Fig.3 - Processors i3, i5 and i7

Intel Core i3 Processor

This particular Intel processor is the entry level processor of this new series of Intel processors.

While it may not be the fastest one of the bunch, it can get the job done, at least for most applications.

Uses 4 threads. Yes, it uses hyperthreading technology which is the latest craze due to its

improved efficiency over earlier processors that were put on the market.

This processor consists of 2-4 cores, depending on which one you get your hands on.

Contains A 3-4 MB Cache

Uses less heat and energy than earlier processors, which is always a good thing in this day

and age.

Intel Core i5 Processor

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“Processor i7”

This is the mid-size processor of this bunch, recommended for those who demand a little speed,

but not quite enough where the user will be running resource-intensive applications.

As with the Core i3 processor, this comes with 2-4 cores, the main difference is that it has a

higher clock speed than the Core i3.

This is also a heat and energy efficient processor, but it does seem to be better at this

particular job than the Core i3 processor.

The number of threads used in this is no different than the Core i3 with 2-4 threads, and it

also uses hyperthreading technology for a boost in performance.

The cache of the Core i5 is bigger than the Core i3, it’s at 3-8 MB.

The Core i5 is where the turbo mode is made available, this provides users with the

opportunity to turn off a core if it’s not being utilized.

Intel Core i7 Processor

This is for the users that demand power, yes it does provide more power and Great for gamers

and other resource intensive users.

The cache on this one is 4-8 MB.

This processor comes with 8 threads, definitely enough to get the job done quickly, may be

even at the speed of light if you’re lucky.

It also utilizes hyper-threading technology as well as turbo boost technology.

You will have four cores to take advantage of with this particular series.

And just like the other ones in this Intel series of processors, it is more energy efficient and

produces less heat.

8. CONCLUSION

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“Processor i7”

We have finally got acquainted with the new Core i7 processors, the first solutions on Nehalem

micro architecture targeted for desktop systems.

This processor is brilliant from multiple standpoints. It supports new interesting technologies,

such as SMT and Turbo Boost, and has an integrated memory controller with unprecedented

performance. In most applications except a few gaming titles, the new processors turned out faster than

Core 2 processors working at the same clock speed.

New Core i7 are indisputably better in most aspects than Core 2 Quad processors of

comparable price. Their performance is almost always higher, which is especially evident in case of

multi-threaded load and their power consumption is comparable with that of their predecessors.

Over-clocking the core i7 processors also seems to be easier. Servers will also likely benefit

greatly from using an i7 - the memory bandwidth is simply insane. It is more energy efficient and

produces less heat.

The core i7 utilizes Hyper-Threading technology as well as Turbo Boost Technology.

Core i7 is first processor using Nehalem Micro-architecture, with faster, intelligent, multi-core

technology that applies processing power where it's needed most, new Intel Core i7 processors deliver

an incredible breakthrough in PC performance.

9. REFERENCES

13Department of Comp Sci & Engg, PLITMS, Buldana

“Processor i7”

1. http://www.intel.com /

2. http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corei7

3. www.intel.com/technology/turboboost/index.htm l

4. www.hexus.net

5. www.neoseeker.com

6. Intel Core Processor i7 (research) - “Digit” Magazine

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