Intel Xeon Processor 5600 series encryption processors

The Intel Xeon Processor 5600 series processors deliver two security features - advanced encryption standard new instructions (AES-NI) and trusted execution technology (TXT) - that enable faster encryption and decryption performance for more secure transactions and virtualised environments, providing data centres with a strong foundation for cloud security.

The first server and workstation chips based on the company’s 32 nm logic technology, which uses second-generation high-k metal gate transistors to increase speed and decrease energy consumption, they support up to six cores per processor and deliver up to 60% increased performance than the 45 nm 5500 series. Data centres can replace 15 single-core servers with one.

A two-socket server using the low-voltage processor L5640 can deliver the same performance as a server using the previous generation X5570 series, with up to 30% lower platform power.

The series includes the company’s AES-NI set of instructions that accelerate AES performance to enable faster data encryption and decryption for a wide range of applications such as database encryption features, full disk encryption and secure internet transactions.

TXT is claimed to provide added security by enabling a more secure platform launch environment and providing more protection for applications that move between virtualised servers. Hardware-based capabilities integrated into the processor shield against malicious software to allow important applications and data to run more securely in a virtualised environment.

Working together, TXT and AES are claimed to ensure that virtual environments have enhanced performance and functionality and are more secure when they are launched, migrated or at rest.

The company’s turbo boost, hyper-threading and virtualisation technologies adjust to the performance requirements of users, enhance multitasking and increase the reliability and manageability of consolidated IT environments.

The frequency-optimised quad-core version of the series peaks at 3.46 GHz with a TDP of 130 W, while the six-core version reaches 3.33 GHz with a TDP of 130 W. Advanced six-core versions will top out at 2.93 GHz and TDP of 95 W and the standard quad-core processor will reach 2.66 GHz at 80 W. Low-voltage versions of the chip will have TDPs as low as 60 W and 40 W and feature six and four cores respectively.

The company has also announced the Xeon processor L3406 series, targeted for use in the single processor micro server segment. It has a TDP of 30 W, making it suitable for high-density form factors and power-sensitive environments.

Intel has also launched three processors for the embedded computing segment, including the first six-core processors, the Xeon E5645 and L5638, the quad-core L5618 and E5620 processors. Built for thermally constrained and robust communications environments, they are claimed to route applications more quickly and efficiently between connected devices.

Intel also has available the Core i7-980X Processor Extreme edition, its first 32 nm, six-core processor with 12 computing threads for client applications. Offering good performance for digital content creation, 3D rendering, multitasking and hardcore gaming, it is drop-in compatible with most existing X58 Express chipset-based motherboards. Running at 3.33 GHz, the 980X is overclocking-enabled to provide flexibility to advanced users who want to adjust their speed settings and has 12 MB of smart cache - 50% more than the current desktop processor.