Intel finally brings its latest laptop CPU tech to other platforms, but desktop users are shunned: Meteor Lake-PS architecture combines Core Ultra and LGA socket and focuses instead on edge systems
Intel’s LGA1851 socket was expected to house the tech giant’s next-generation Arrow Lake chips, but for now it looks like the company might have another use for it.
At the recent Embedded World conference, Intel unveiled its Meteor Lake-PS architecture for edge systems, the first Core Ultra processor on an LGA socket.
The new SoC design, which integrates the Intel Arc GPU and a neural processing unit, aims to enable generative AI and handle demanding graphics workloads for sectors such as retail, education, smart cities and industrial.
Ultra-low TDP
Intel says its Core Ultra processors offer up to 5.02x superior image classification performance compared to 14th generation Core desktop processors. Applications for the PS Series include GenAI-enabled kiosks and smart point-of-sale systems in physical stores, interactive whiteboards for advanced classroom experiences, and AI vision-enhanced industrial devices for manufacturing and roadside units.
The new chips are designed with low-power, always-on usage scenarios in mind. This is evident from the fact that none of these chips have a Thermal Design Power higher than 65W. There is even a low power version with a power of 15 W (12-28 configurable TDP).
Intel says: “Departing from the conventional lineup that combines Intel Core desktop processors with discrete GPUs, the PS Series Intel Core Ultra processors introduce an innovative integration of GPU and AI Boost capabilities directly within the processors, in addition to the flexible LGA socket configuration. Offering four times the graphics execution units (EUs) compared to their S or desktop series predecessors, these processors provide a powerful alternative for processing AI and graphics-heavy tasks. Not only does this design eliminate the need for an additional discrete GPU, reducing costs and simplifying the overall design process, it also positions these processors as the solution for those who prioritize efficiency alongside improved performance.”
The desktop LGA1851 socket supports 5600MHz DDR5 memory, two PCIe Gen4 SSDs and four Thunderbolt 4 devices. However, there is a notable absence of chipset support for Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe Gen5.
The new desktop Intel Meteor Lake chips are not expected to be available until the fourth quarter of 2024. This timeline also coincides with the expected launch of Arrow Lake desktop CPUs, according to the latest industry rumors.