17.02.2014 01:55
The time of Sandy Bridge architecture has passed, the time has passed and . But even despite the leading position of code-named processors (at least for home systems of ordinary users), silicon veterans of the past can still demonstrate very good performance, fortunately, not all of them have been discontinued. Moreover, socket number LGA 1155 is still the most alive. And motherboards based on the top Intel chipset Z77 actually crammed with the most popular and relevant peripheral technologies. This means that there is still no great need to switch to Socket 1150. However, today we will not talk about that. A CPU called the Intel Core i7-2600K fell into our hands, albeit very late.
Intel Core i7 is Intel Core i7, with it the system works more than quickly, it is felt when working in any application, the difference is especially clearly visible when switching to Intel Core i7-2600K from Intel Core i5 or even from third line processors.
There is some technical detail, which, although not so significant, but reflected in systems built on the basis of Socket 1155, which is absent on a more modern platform for Socket 1150, which is quite natural. The fact is that the second generation of processors for LGA 1155 does not formally function with the PCI-Express 3.0 interface, but Ivy Bridge is quite capable. And some video cards, for example, the seventh series from NVIDIA, may not work quite correctly. But in most cases, the problem is solved by updating the motherboard software.
quad core Intel Core i7-2600K processor with 8 compute threads (thanks to Hyper-Threading virtualization technology) based on the process technology 32 nm. The nominal clock frequency of the CPU is 3400 MHz(in turbo mode - 3800 MHz). The volume of the L3 cache is 8 MB, and this fact is most attractive to users who prefer speed when working with severe graphics, rendering and other tasks that require resources for large amounts of data. However, the most important feature of the Intel Core i7-2600K, of course, is the unlocked multiplier, which allows you to conquer sky-high clock speeds and set world records if you are an avid computer enthusiast.
Even an aluminum cooler (of course, rather big) is quite enough for a full-fledged heat sink from the Intel Core i7-2600K.
Do not forget about the built-in graphics core of the generation HD Graphics 3000(clock frequency - 1350 MHz). But this chip is not able to process DirectX 11 applications, besides, its performance is only suitable for watching HD video, you can hardly count on more.
We decided to test the Intel Core i7-2600K on the ECS Z77H2-A2X (V1.0) motherboard, which allows you to increase the processor multiplier, as well as change the voltage on the core. Note that by pressing buttons automatic overclocking, which is present in the BIOS of the specified board, managed to conquer 4500 MHz, which is called with light hand. For automatic overclocking, a pretty good result. By the way, ECS Z77H2-A2X (V1.0) in this mode adds for insurance +0.200 V to the rated voltage of the processor.
Manually, we managed to overclock the Intel Core i7-2600K to 4800 MHz by simply increasing the multiplier to 48 units, as well as increasing the voltage to 1.440 V.
Intel Core i7 is Intel Core i7, with it the system works more than quickly, this is felt when working in any application, the difference is especially clear when switching to Intel Core i7-2600K from Intel Core i5 or even from processors. Take a look at the test results, they really correspond to the power that the test person demonstrates stone.
For cooling 95 W The heat of the Intel Core i7-2600K used the DeepCool LUCIFER cooler. Note that the possibilities of CO were more than enough, even for a solid overclocking. On the one hand, the cooler is really powerful, but on the other hand, the heat dissipation of the reviewed processor cannot be called too large. Even an aluminum cooler (of course, rather big) is quite enough for a full-fledged heat sink from the Intel Core i7-2600K.
The production of the Intel Core i7-2600K at Intel factories is gradually fading away, but the retail price for the specified processor still causes some shudder.
Manually, we managed to overclock the Intel Core i7-2600K to 4800 MHz by simply increasing the multiplier to 48 units, as well as increasing the voltage to 1.440 V. At a higher clock frequency, the processor behaved no longer so stably, even in the OS there were some whims, expressed in uncharacteristic thoughtfulness CPU and other symptoms that tell about the close limit of the capabilities of a particular instance. On the specified characteristics, the temperature of the hottest core in the S&M test did not rise above 67 degrees which is quite worthy.
The production of the Intel Core i7-2600K at Intel factories is gradually fading away, but the retail price for the specified processor still causes some shudder. Cheaper 11500 rubles finding a 2600K is hardly possible. This is quite natural, because the performance that today's guest demonstrates is enough not only in 2014, it will be enough in a few years, this is obvious. And it is unlikely that the price factor can stop true connoisseurs of speed and users who are eager to conquer overclocking heights.
Test results for the Intel Core i7-2600K processor:
Today we will focus on Intel Core i7 processors, and the main focus will be on models with higher performance than the i7-880 has. The need to test them according to the new method arose not only by itself, but also because a few days remain before the announcement of the LGA2011 platform. First of all, it (like its predecessor LGA1567) is intended for multiprocessor high-performance systems, but along the way, it is she who will replace the extreme LGA1366 on the desktop market, which has been around for almost three years.
Thus, in the “computers for enthusiasts” segment, the already fed up dual power will end, when the best results on most mass-produced software are demonstrated by Sandy Bridge architecture processors for LGA1155, but the maximum return on multi-threaded software can be obtained using Gulftown six-core processors, which appeared a year and a half ago and related to the older Westmere microarchitecture. Several PCIe x16 slots (which can be useful for serious milti-GPU solutions) without additional crutches are now provided only within the framework of LGA1356, which has already taken root on the market, and just in Sandy Bridge games they significantly outperform their predecessors, which makes such a separation of platforms even more offensive. Soon they will finish with it by releasing multi-core Sandy Bridge E-family, in addition to the new architecture, they can offer the user an integrated PCIe controller with support for 40 lines of this interface, which will allow implementing schemes like x16 + x16 or x16 + without any complex frills x8+x8 or even x8+x8+x8+x8, which within the LGA1155 platform is achievable only with the help of additional chips.
In general, for comparison with such "newcomers", we need the results of the most productive "oldies", which we will get today. But not only - at the same time we will test some of the "youngest of the older" processors, so you can consider this article also a kind of continuation of the cycle about "performance limits" in relation to the Core i7 family.
Test stand configuration
| CPU | Core i7-860 | Core i7-880 | Core i7-2600 |
| Kernel name | Lynnfield | Lynnfield | Sandy Bridge QC |
| Production technology | 45 nm | 45 nm | 32 nm |
| Core frequency (std/max), GHz | 2,8/3,46 | 3,06/3,73 | 3,4/3,8 |
| 21 | 23 | 34 | |
| How Turbo Boost works | 5-4-1-1 | 5-4-2-2 | 4-3-2-1 |
| 4/8 | 4/8 | 4/8 | |
| L1 cache, I/D, KB | 32/32 | 32/32 | 32/32 |
| L2 cache, KB | 4×256 | 4×256 | 4×256 |
| L3 cache, MiB | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| UnCore frequency, GHz | 2,4 | 2,4 | 3,4 |
| RAM | 2×DDR3-1333 | ||
| video core | - | - | GMA HD 2000 |
| socket | LGA1156 | LGA1156 | LGA1155 |
| TDP | 95 W | 95 W | 95 W |
| Price | N/A() | N/A() | $340() |
With the LGA1156 and LGA1155 platforms, everything is simple. For the first, four Core i7 models were released, among which the younger and older ones are easily and unambiguously identified - 860 and 880. The LGA1155 case is even more transparent: within this platform, there are two suitable processors that are completely identical to each other in the regular mode using discrete graphics, so all arrows point to Core i7-2600. In the near future, Intel plans to release a new model for overclockers, namely the Core i7-2700K (by the way: nothing has been heard about its “regular” counterpart yet), which will actually replace the i7-2600K in terms of price and positioning, but the fundamental difference between the two there are no processors: some 100 MHz clock frequency, i.e. only about 3%, which will only lead to a proportional increase in performance (at best). However, if the 2700K appears at the same time or a little earlier than the SB-E, we will test it too. But not now :) Energy-efficient models were also produced for both platforms, but they are somewhat away from the main line, so today we will not deal with them.
| CPU | Core i7-920 | Core i7-970 | Core i7-990X |
| Kernel name | Bloomfield | gulftown | gulftown |
| Production technology | 45 nm | 32 nm | 32 nm |
| Core frequency (std/max), GHz | 2,66/2,93 | 3,2/3,47 | 3,47/3,73 |
| Starting multiplication factor | 20 | 24 | 26 |
| How Turbo Boost works | 2-1-1-1 | 2-1-1-1-1-1 | 2-1-1-1-1-1 |
| Number of cores/threads of calculation | 4/8 | 6/12 | 6/12 |
| L1 cache, I/D, KB | 32/32 | 32/32 | 32/32 |
| L2 cache, KB | 4×256 | 6×256 | 6×256 |
| L3 cache, MiB | 8 | 12 | 12 |
| UnCore frequency, GHz | 2,13 | 2,13 | 2,66 |
| RAM | 3×DDR3-1066 | ||
| video core | - | - | - |
| socket | LGA1366 | LGA1366 | LGA1366 |
| TDP | 130 W | 130 W | 130 W |
| Price | N/A() | N/A() | N/A() |
But within the framework of LGA1366, everything is less clear. However, there are no problems with the older model: this is the Core i7-990X Extreme Edition. Before its introduction, there was also a kind of dual power, since in low-threaded tasks Gulftown usually lost to equal-frequency Bloomfield, so the extreme 980X and 975 fought for first place with varying success, but the release of the 990X with a higher clock speed than the 975 quickly put everything on to their places. But there are ... two junior processors. The first is the unconditionally younger Core i7-920, which appeared simultaneously with the launch of the platform at the end of 2008. Moreover, for a long time this processor was not only the youngest in the family, but simply the only Core i7 available to the mass buyer, which was corrected only after the appearance of the Core i7-860 in September next year. Accordingly, 920 was almost the most popular processor for LGA1366. Now, of course, it is absolutely not interesting as a new purchase, but a considerable number of users have it, so we have no right not to test it. And then there was the Core i7-970 - the youngest of the line of six-core "desktop" processors. Again, there is no longer much point in buying it, since the Core i7-980 is shipped at the same price (which should not be confused with the Core i7-980X Extreme Edition, which some sometimes do), but these processors differ (as usual) only by one step of the clock frequency, but otherwise the same. Therefore, it was more interesting for us to test the 970.
There will be no AMD processors in testing today. Since, as we have already established, the best of them, namely the Phenom II X6 1100T, is approximately equal to only the Core i7-860 or Core i5-2400 in terms of overall average performance, compare it with models such as i7-2600 or i7-990X, doesn't make any sense. For the price, too, it's a completely different class. And the appearance of the "bulldozer" FX-8150 did not make significant changes to the "picture of the world": it is somewhere faster than its predecessor, somewhere even slower, but still belongs to a slightly different class than the Core i7. That's when AMD returns to the top segment, then we will return to its products as part of testing high-performance solutions. In the meantime, alas, they are simply not available in AMD's assortment.
| Motherboard | RAM | |
| LGA1155 | Biostar TH67XE (H67) | |
| LGA1156 | ASUS P7H55-M Pro (H55) | Corsair Vengeance CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9B (2×1333; 9-9-9-24) |
| LGA1366 | Intel DX58SO2 (X58) | 12 GB 3×1333; 9-9-9-24 / 3×1066; 8-8-8-19 (9x0 / 990X) |
We usually bundle test systems with 8 GB random access memory, however, an exception was made for LGA1366 - since this is the only system on the market with a three-channel memory controller, we decided not to pass by such a “feature” of it. Well, if you install in each channel modulo 4 GB (as we usually do), the total amount of memory will be no less than 12 GB. In the framework of testing according to the previous method, this platform had a similar odds - 6 GB against the typical 4 GB. And often it helped her :) So let's see if modern applications show the effect of increasing memory to 12 GB, or is it a waste of money. The different clock speeds of the memory are due to the fact that ordinary and extreme processors under LGA1366 have different UnCore frequencies. Although, in principle, models based on the Gulftown core in the “manual mode” also support a 2:3 ratio, and not just 1:2 (this allows you to use high-speed memory without overclocking this block, and you can also overclock the latter), we did not use this opportunity . Maybe, within the framework of some special testing, we will do it. Although, on the other hand, it’s probably not worth it anymore - the platform is still relevant, but it doesn’t have long to live, as mentioned at the beginning of the article :) Moreover, all previous tests showed that the effect of the fast memory itself much less than from overclocking UnCore, so more benefit can be achieved without chasing high-frequency "overclocker" modules, but just using the "default" 1: 2 and overclocking the cache.
Testing
Traditionally, we divide all tests into a number of groups and show the average result for a group of tests/applications on the diagrams (for details on the testing methodology, see a separate article). The results in the diagrams are given in points, for 100 points the performance of the reference test system, the site of the sample of 2011, is taken. It is based on the AMD Athlon II X4 620 processor, but the amount of memory (8 GB) and video card () are standard for all tests of the “main line” and can only be changed as part of special studies. Those who are interested in more detailed information are again traditionally invited to download a table in Microsoft Excel format, in which all the results are shown both in converted points and in "natural" form.
Interactive work in 3D packages
The leadership of the Core i7-2600 needs no special explanation: the best of Sandy Bridge - and that says it all. The results of the rest of the subjects are arranged in descending order of clock frequency, and in this traditionally low-threaded group it depends on the work of Turbo Boost technology, which is “more aggressive” in Lynnfield than in Bloomfield and Gulftown. Core i7-990X is saved only by the fact that its starting frequency is very high, but for models 970 and, in particular, 920, there is nothing to “cover” here :)
Final rendering of 3D scenes
In general, for such an application (primarily) multi-core processors are created, so no one doubted the victory of six cores (which ultimately gives as many as 12 computational threads). However, the effectiveness of the new architecture has not gone away: the 990X model managed to outperform the 880 by one and a half times (which is logical), but its advantage over the 2600 was reduced to a more modest 20-25%. So you can immediately predict that the older multi-core SB-E will score around 400 points in this test and quickly show Who is the head in this house :)
Packing and unpacking
A capacious cache and the ability of 7-Zip to efficiently use many computational threads when compressing data still do not allow Gulftown to win a landslide victory. The extreme 990X, however, managed to capture the highest step of the podium, but the 970 is already noticeably behind the 2600. Again, we are waiting for new records after the appearance of processors for the LGA2011 platform in our hands: everything is fine with the number of cores, but with architecture and cache memory - so it's just wonderful.
Audio encoding
This test is built in such a way that it "plays along" with multi-core processors - if we ran many simultaneous operations regardless of the physical number of cores, it is very likely that the results would become less pronounced. But even in its current form, it becomes obvious that with the same architecture, six cores are, of course, better than four, but "brute force" is far from everything - improvements in Sandy Bridge can reduce the backlog to a minimum.
Compilation
Six cores, 12 threads, 12 MB L3 cache - the result is predictable. Moreover, as we have already noticed, compilers are rather cool about the improvements of the new architecture, so the gain is close to explainable by a simple difference in the clock frequencies of the cores and the cache. However, we repeat - the final point here will be set closer to the end of October;)
Mathematical and engineering calculations
It looks like the first group, although there really is something to count here, and the Core i7-970 does not look so pale. But to overtake or at least catch up with the Core i7-2600, it doesn’t work out all the same - for this it would be necessary to have an advantage in clock frequency, which is not.
Raster graphics
Some of it is already optimized for multithreading, but not all. Therefore, Gulftown may already be able to break away from older cores, but is still unable to beat Sandy Bridge. Moreover, even where there is optimization, the four cores of the latter turn out to be a very impressive force: the i7-2600 outperformed the i7-990X in Photoshop and almost did not lag behind it in ACDSee. With a logical overall result.
Vector graphics
But here there is practically no support for multithreading, so the result is also natural: the main thing is the architecture, and other things being equal, the clock frequency, which together gives the maximum “single-threaded performance” required in this case.
Video encoding
It would seem that media coding is an area where the trend to increase the number of cores has no alternatives. And it seemed right, but ... Architectural improvements should not be discounted either. But in the new family, they not only improved what was implemented earlier, but also added new instructions, in particular, the AVX set. The latter is already supported, for example, by the x264 encoder. Perhaps this was not the only factor that influenced the final result, but it is the result that matters. And it is like this: in this test, the Core i7-2600 outperforms its rival in the face of the Core i7-970 despite a 1.5-fold lag in the number of cores! The situation is similar in the Microsoft Expression Encoder test. Older programs, of course, to a greater extent prefer multi-core to the novelty of each core, however, as we see, even in such a traditionally multi-threaded area as video encoding, as a result, the i7-970 showed almost the same result as the i7-2600, and the i7 -990X managed to retain the first place, but with a very modest margin: some 10%. Here he smashed the old quad-core Core i7 with ease, and now he has found a scythe on a stone.
Office software
To put it mildly, this is not the most interesting subject area for the processors tested today - it is obvious that the speed of such is excessive here. Even the slowest Core i7-920 outperforms our reference Athlon II X4 620 by 40%, which is already the same for the office :) So let's just admire the results, and their explanations were enough in the text above - these applications do not differ in originality.
Java
Refinement of the test in the new methodology allowed the six-core monsters of Intel to “take off the handbrake”, although, as we see, it didn’t help them that much. Even though the JVM prefers "real" cores to "virtual" threads, the old six-core is not far from the new quad-core. If we compare similar architectures, then the advantage is more than obvious.
Games
At the very least, but game engines slowly mastering multithreading. Although, as we have seen more than once, the main watershed runs between processors that perform only two computation threads simultaneously (and these are now found only in the budget sector itself), and all the rest. The latter group, however, can also be quite clearly divided into “four-threads” and “quad-cores”, although there is a strong feeling that the large cache memory capacity of the latter plays a significant role in this division, and not at all “honest multi-core”. But all these battles take place "out there" - below $200. And today we have processors of a higher class. Where there are at least four cores, and Hyper-Threading is supported by all of them. In general, translating from Russian into Russian - by and large, even the “old man” Core i7-920 is enough for all gaming exercises, and there is nothing surprising in the fact that other participants here outperformed it to a much lesser extent than in other tests. Well, the Core i7-2600 became the winner - the large cache in Gulftown is compensated by its low frequency of operation, and there are simply more than a lot of cores.
Total
The ideal spherical computer enthusiast in the vacuum he lives in should have at least two high-performance computers. One - on a pair of Xeon X5690 (similar to the Core i7-990X, but capable of working in a dual-processor configuration) somewhere in the closet: needed in order to solve "heavy" tasks, such as coding, rendering and other things. And the second - on some processor of the "second Generation Core” (maybe even a dual-core Core i3-2130): for interactive tasks. But since nothing is perfect in nature, and we do not live in a vacuum, the most reasonable compromise for all applications is now the Core i7-2600 in the only powerful desktop. Yes, of course, the six-core extremal managed to get around it in the overall standings, but only by 10% at a three times higher price. And the advantage is not observed at all in daily tasks - the 990X does not shine in them. However, for those for whom rendering or video editing is the main area of use of a computer, any of Gulftown, of course, will suit to the maximum extent. At least until the end of October - when, as we said at the beginning of the article, the dual power will end, since six-core processors of the Sandy Bridge architecture will appear on the market.
But do you really need so many cores on a desktop? In general, as we see, there is a benefit from them, and noticeable, but only in very specific areas. That is, if the user finds a task for such a dreadnought, he will certainly show himself. And if it doesn’t find it, it will just turn out to be an expensive heater :) Incidentally, by the way, you can put an end to last year’s disputes about which is more promising: LGA1156 or LGA1366. There was such a fairly popular point of view: I’ll take the inexpensive Core i7-930 now, and when the six-core models become cheaper, I’ll upgrade with little blood. However, as is often the case, the wool-for-promise program failed. De jure LGA1155 replaced LGA1156, but de facto this platform made it pointless for most users to buy a six-core processor for LGA1366. Yes, non-extreme models of the latter have appeared, but what's the point? Anyway, both 970 and 980 stand at the level of a set of 2600 and a good motherboard, and they can demonstrate superiority over the latter only in a small (relatively) number of tasks. Are there any in constant use? Then, on the one hand, there is a benefit from the purchase, and on the other hand, it would be more if you immediately buy even the extreme Core i7-980X, without waiting for the price to drop: in six months or a year, the investments would have completely "rebuffed" (even only psychological effect). In addition, the further the usefulness of relatively "obsolete" processors becomes less due to progress in the field of software production: we recall that in the x264 test, the Core i7-2600 overtook the "old man" 970. Just in a task convenient for the latter!
In general, multi-core processors continue to be a kind of "thing in itself". Another question is that just a few years ago, "a lot" meant "four", and now processors with such a number of cores have descended into the mass segment. And their performance is constantly growing: let us recall, again, that 920, 860 and 2600 are processors from the same price bracket. Only different times: the end of 2008, the second half of 2009 and the beginning of 2011, respectively. Well, in 2010, 870/950/960 not shown in the diagram were sold at the same price. That is, the process of increasing productivity for the same price is continuous. Its result is approximately one and a half times growth in a little more than two years. On the same number of cores and with lower power consumption - simply due to architectural improvements. And for the attention of those users who still need more (and they are ready to pay for it), six-core processors are now being offered that can compete in performance with former dual-processor systems. And, of course, the latter also did not go anywhere, having “built up their muscles” accordingly. In general, revolutions are no longer needed - with such and such an evolution;)
In early January, Intel officially introduced in Russia new series processors, codenamed Sandy Bridge. In this article, we will consider the results of testing the top model of this series - the Intel Core i7-2600K processor.
Briefly about Sandy Bridge processors
Sandy Bridge is the code name for Intel's new processor microarchitecture, but all Intel processors based on it are called Sandy Bridge processors. We already wrote in detail about the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture in the October issue of our magazine (see the article “In the footsteps of IFD 2010: Intel Sandy Bridge processor microarchitecture”), and therefore here we will only briefly recall the most important thing.
All Sandy Bridge processors will initially be manufactured using the 32nm process. In the future, when the transition to the 22-nm process technology takes place, processors based on the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture will be codenamed Ivy Bridge.
Sandy Bridge processors, just like Westmere processors, in the desktop and mobile segments form three families: Intel Core i7, Intel Core i5 and Intel Core i3. In order to be able to distinguish Sandy Bridge processors from previous generation Intel Core i7/i5/i3 processor families, their labeling system has been completely changed. Sandy Bridge processors are marked with a four-digit number, with the first digit being 2, which means the second generation of the Intel Core family.
In the Intel Core i7 and Intel Core i5 families, there are processors with both a locked multiplier and an unlocked one, the latter being denoted by the letter K (Intel Core i7-2600K, Intel Core i5-2500K).
The main differences between the Intel Core i7, Intel Core i5, and Intel Core i3 families are the L3 cache size, the number of cores, and support for Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost technologies. All processors of the Intel Core i7 family are quad-core with support for Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost technologies, and their L3 cache size is 8 MB. Processors of the Intel Core i5 family are also quad-core, but do not support Hyper-Threading technology. The cores of these processors support Turbo Boost technology, and the L3 cache size is 6 MB. Processors of the Intel Core i3 family are dual-core with support for Hyper-Threading technology. These processors do not support Turbo Boost technology and have a 3 MB L3 cache.
All Sandy Bridge processors have the new LGA 1155 processor socket. However, the cooler mount is exactly the same as in the case of the LGA 1156 socket, that is, coolers for the LGA 1156 socket are also suitable for the LGA 1155 socket.
Naturally, new processors will be incompatible with motherboards based on Intel 5 series chipsets. Actually, motherboards based on the new Intel 6-series chipset will be designed for Sandy Bridge processors. New to these single-chip chipsets will be support for two SATA 6 Gb/s (SATA III) ports as well as full-speed PCI Express 2.0 lanes (at 5 GHz).
The new LGA 1155 CPU socket is compatible with LGA 1156 coolers.
A distinctive feature of all Sandy Bridge processors will be the presence of an integrated next-generation graphics core. Moreover, if in the processors of the previous generation (Clarkdale and Arrandale) the processing cores of the processor and the graphics core were located on different crystals, moreover, they were produced according to different technical processes, then in the Sandy Bridge processors all processor components will be produced according to the 32-nm process technology and placed on one chip .
It is important to emphasize that the graphics core of the Sandy Bridge processor can be considered as the fifth core of the processor (in the case of quad-core processors). Moreover, it, like the computing cores of the processor, has access to the L3 cache.
Just like the previous generation processors (Clarkdale and Arrandale), Sandy Bridge processors will have an integrated PCI Express 2.0 interface for using discrete graphics cards. Moreover, all processors support 16 PCI Express 2.0 lanes, which can be grouped either as one PCI Express x16 port or as two PCI Express x8 ports.
Note that all Sandy Bridge processors will have an integrated dual-channel DDR3 memory controller. Variants with a three-channel memory controller are not yet planned to be released.
Another feature of processors based on the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture is that instead of the QPI bus (Intel QuickPath Interconnect), which was previously used to connect individual processor components to each other, a fundamentally different interface is now used, called the ring bus (Ring Bus). In general, it should be noted that the architecture of the Sandy Bridge processor implies a modular, easily scalable structure.
Another feature of the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture is that it supports the Intel AVX (Intel Advanced Vector Extension) instruction set.
Intel AVX is a new set of extensions for Intel architecture that provides 256-bit vector floating point calculations based on SIMD (Single Instruction, Multiple Data).
Considering the fact that the new Intel AVX instruction set can be used by any application in which a significant proportion of the calculations are in SIMD operations, the new technology will give the greatest performance gain for those applications that mainly perform floating point calculations and can be parallelized. Examples include audio and audio codecs, image and video editing software, modeling and financial analysis applications, and industrial and engineering applications.
Speaking of the Sandy Bridge processor microarchitecture, it should be noted that it is a development of the Nehalem or Intel Core microarchitecture (since the Nehalem microarchitecture itself is a development of the Intel Core microarchitecture). The differences between Nehalem and Sandy Bridge are very significant, however, it is impossible to call this microarchitecture fundamentally new, which was once the Intel Core microarchitecture. This is exactly the modified Nehalem microarchitecture.
Specifications of the Intel Core i7-2600K processor
Now let's take a closer look at the specifications of the Intel Core i7-2600K processor. So, as already noted, we are talking about a 32-nm quad-core processor with an integrated graphics core. It supports Intel Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost technologies and has an 8MB L3 cache. The TDP of this processor (in normal mode) is 95 watts.
The nominal frequency of this processor is 3.4 GHz. Actually, why exactly this frequency was chosen as a regular one, we did not understand. As our testing of this processor showed, we could just as well specify a frequency of 3.8 or 4.0 GHz. Looking ahead, we note that this processor overclocks very well and works stably even at a frequency of 4.6 GHz. So the concept of a standard clock frequency in this case is very conditional.
The letter "K" in the marking of the Intel Core i7-2600K processor indicates that we are talking about a processor with an unlocked multiplier. That is, this processor can be overclocked not only traditional way(by increasing the frequency of the system bus), but also by changing the multiplier. Moreover, the fact that the processor has an unlocked multiplier allows you to manually adjust the dynamic overclocking mode of the Turbo Boost processor.
Before describing how you can configure the Turbo Boost mode in the Intel Core i7-2600K processor, we note one important circumstance. In Intel Core processors of the previous generation, the system bus frequency was 133 MHz, and in Sandy Bridge processors it was 100 MHz, respectively, the processor frequency is a multiple of 100 MHz.
By default (in normal mode), the multiplier for the Intel Core i7-2600K processor is 34, respectively, the processor clock speed is 3.4 GHz. (100 MHzx34 = 3.4 GHz). The mode of dynamic overclocking of the processor (Turbo Boost) is implemented as follows. If all four processor cores are loaded, then the multiplier can be increased to 35 (processor frequency 3.5 GHz). When loading only three cores, the multiplier can be increased to 36, and when only two cores are loaded, up to 37. If only one core is loaded, then the multiplier can be increased to 38 (clock frequency 3.8 GHz). Naturally, in all these cases, an increase in the multiplication factor is possible if the maximum TDP value and maximum current are not exceeded. By default, the maximum TDP is 95W and the maximum current is 97A.
Test Methodology
Since the Intel Core i7-2600K processor has an unlocked multiplier and is initially focused on overclocking, during testing, our attention was focused on its overclocking capabilities. That is, once we tested this processor in the normal mode, and then - in the overclocking state. The processor was overclocked by changing the settings of the Turbo Boost mode at the standard value of the multiplier. In our opinion, this method of overclocking a processor is more universal than simply changing the multiplier with the Turbo Boost technology disabled. Firstly, it allows you to fine-tune the operation of the processor, and secondly, this overclocking method includes the option of overclocking by changing the multiplier - for this, it is enough to set the same multiplier for all processor cores.
As a result, we tested the Intel Core i7-2600K processor in five different Turbo Boost settings (Table 1).
When overclocking the processor by changing the Turbo Boost mode settings, the maximum TDP value was set to 130 W, and the maximum current value was set to 110 A.
As it turned out during testing, the maximum clock frequency of the processor in Turbo Boost mode can be 4.6 GHz. It does not matter, only one or all four processor cores in question. A further increase in the multiplication factor led to the fact that operating system it just didn't load.
To test the Intel Core i7-2600K processor, the stand of the following configuration was used:
- motherboard - GIGABYTE P67A-UD4;
- motherboard chipset - Intel P67 Express;
- memory - DDR3-1333 (Kingston HyperX KHX 14900D3T1K3x2);
- memory size - 2 GB (two modules of 1024 MB each);
- memory mode - DDR3-1333, dual-channel;
- video card - NVIDIA GeForce GTX480;
- video driver - ForceWare 260.99;
- hard drive - Seagate ST31500341AS (1.5 TB);
- power supply -Tagan 1300W;
- operating system - Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate (32-bit).
To test the Intel Core i7-2600K processor, we used our new ComputerPress Benchmark Script v. 9.0, which is detailed in the article "Intel Core i7-990X Six-Core Extreme Edition" published in the December 2010 issue of the magazine.
Here we only recall that for the integral evaluation of processor performance, our methodology uses the concept of a reference PC based on an Intel Core i7-965 Extreme Edition processor (clock frequency 3.2 GHz, Turbo Boost mode is activated). The integral performance result of the reference PC is taken as 1000 points.
Test results
Detailed test results of the Intel Core i7-2600K processor with the execution time of each test are presented in Table. 2. As can be seen from the test results, the performance of the Intel Core i7-2600K processor, even in normal operation (without overclocking), is higher than the performance of the Intel Core i7-965 Extreme Edition processor, which we use for comparison. Moreover, ahead of events, let's say that in March, Intel will announce the release of a six-core processor Intel Core i7-990X Extreme Edition. So, in terms of performance in normal operation, the Intel Core i7-2600K processor even slightly outperforms the Intel Core i7-990X Extreme Edition processor.
In addition, this processor has excellent overclocking capabilities. We managed to overclock it to 4.6 GHz without sacrificing stability, and there are data on the Internet about overclocking the Intel Core i7-2600K processor to 5 GHz.
In the case of overclocking the Intel Core i7-2600K processor to 4.6 GHz, its integrated performance increases by 22% compared to the performance in normal operation. In addition, in overclocked state, the performance of this processor is almost 40% higher than that of the Intel Core i7-965 Extreme Edition processor. In a word, today it is the most productive Intel processor with excellent overclocking potential.
A premium processor with maximum performance and phenomenal technical specifications - this is all entirely true of the Core i7-2600. It is the capabilities of this semiconductor solution, as well as the results of its testing in synthetic and gaming tests, that will be considered. In addition to this, reviews of real owners of this product will be given.
Niche of this semiconductor solution
Intel processor products are currently distributed as follows:
Entry-level chips are represented by two lines of solutions at once: Celeron and, of course, Pentium. The minimum cache size, reduced clock speeds, and the presence of only two computing blocks for processing program code and data ensured a minimum level of performance that was only sufficient for the implementation of the simplest and least demanding tasks.
The middle segment of processor solutions is occupied by Core i3 chips. They have a larger cache, increased CPU clock speeds, and already 4 logical code processing units.
As you can easily guess from the markings, the i7-2600 belongs to the last group of devices. It boasts uncompromising speed and the ability to solve any problem.
Possible configuration options for the CPU. Their features
The i7-2600 CPU in question had only two possible configuration options. A review of the price lists indicated that one of them was called Trail. It included the following:
CPU in a protective plastic case.
Installation and use guide.
Company warranty card.
Sticker with the logo of the family of central processors.
The second possible configuration option was designated as VOX. In addition to everything previously listed, it includes a cooler with thermal paste and a branded cardboard box. The first configuration option is more suitable for large companies that specialize in assembling PC system units. But the second of them will be the best choice for small PC builders and computer enthusiasts.
Processor socket and motherboards
An i7-2600 must be installed in the socket under the designation LGA1156. This hardware platform was relevant in 2012-2013. Now it has been replaced by more recent developments by Intel. The hero of this review should be installed in motherboards based on 6X and 7X series chipsets. Moreover, it is more preferable to install it in the products of the latest series precisely because of their greater functionality.
Architectural nuances of the considered chip
The solution in question belongs to the 2nd generation Core chips. Their code name according to the manufacturer's nomenclature is Sandy Bridge. Immediately 4 physical blocks for processing program code were implemented in the Intel Core i7-2600. At the same time, the NT technology makes it possible to obtain already 8 logical software processing streams at the software level. Also, the indisputable advantage of this model of the central processor is that it supports both 32-bit and 64-bit calculations.
Frequencies
Now about how much the Intel Core i7-2600 MHz has in terms of clock speed. The reference value of this parameter for this semiconductor solution is set at around 3400 MHz. In this case, all 4 code processing units take part in the code processing process. If the CPU frequency increases to 3600 MHz, then two computing modules and half of the computing power of the processor device will automatically turn off in the chip. If the chip frequency is increased to 3800 MHz, only one core will remain in operation. This dynamic frequency control is provided by TurboBust technology. The algorithm of its work is as follows:
When running 4 cores, the CPU frequency is minimal and equal to 3.4 GHz.
If the processed code is optimized for 2 physical cores, then the frequency value rises to 3.6 GHz.
When working in one thread, the value of this parameter increases to 3.8 GHz.
In the event of a thermal violation of this semiconductor solution, the CPU frequency will drop to 3.6 GHz. If this does not correct the situation, then the value of this parameter will drop even more - to 3.4 GHz.
Silicon crystal production technology. Energy efficiency. Power consumption specifications
According to the technological tolerance standards of 32 nm, the i7-2600 was produced. The characteristics of this chip indicate that its dimensions are 37.5 by 37.5 mm. At the time of the start of sales, the considered central processor could boast of a sufficiently high energy efficiency against the background of similar solutions of previous generations. It consumed 95 watts. And even now this meaning is still relevant. The i7-2600 also did well with thermal conditions. Its temperature, as a rule, was in the range from 40 to 55 degrees. In normal mode, it did not rise above 55 degrees even when working in combination with a conventional complete cooling system. The maximum allowable temperature for this processor is 72.6 degrees. That is, from the standpoint of temperature, the solution under consideration has a really significant margin of safety.
cache system. Random Access Memory Subsystem
The i7-2600 premium CPU boasted a well-organized and well-thought-out cache subsystem. Its characteristics indicated that the total size of the first level was 256 KB, which were divided into 4 segments of 64 KB each. Each of these parts could interact only with a certain physical block of program code processing. The second cache level was organized identically, but each of its parts had a size of 512 KB, and the total volume was 2 MB. The organization of memory at the 3rd level was much simpler. Its size was 8 MB, and they were common to all blocks. The RAM controller was part of the CPU die. It would be oriented to work in conjunction with DDR3, and this chip could address 32 GB as much as possible.
Integrated graphics card
A key architectural innovation of this generation of central processing units is that an integrated graphics accelerator was included in its semiconductor crystal. Its model is HD Graphics and it was developed by Intel. Its minimum clock frequency is limited to 350 MHz, and its highest value is 1100 MHz. The maximum number of monitors connected to it at the same time is 2. For solving the simplest tasks, this graphical solution is quite enough. But for the implementation of more serious applications, the presence of a discrete, more productive video card is required. And it is this arrangement that allows you to unleash the full potential of the solution in question.
Overclocking
The absence of the “K” index in the chip marking indicates that the frequency multiplier is locked in the i7-2600. Overclocking, as a result, can only be done in this case by increasing the clock frequency. It is impossible to get a significant increase in performance due to such overclocking, but you can certainly get some 5-7 percent. But at the same time, special requirements are put forward for the motherboard (it must be based on the Z68 or Z77 system logic sets), the power supply (it must have increased power, which would provide a margin of safety for the system unit even after overclocking) and the CPU cooling system. The algorithm for increasing performance in this case is as follows:
We go to BIOS.
We reduce the frequencies of all components (RAM, for example) and leave only the frequency of the system bus unchanged.
Then you need to increase the frequency of the system bus by 1 MHz.
After each such manipulation, we save the changes, reboot the computing system and check it for stress resistance.
When the PC stops working stably, we return to the previous values, and this is the limit of overclocking the PC in this case.
Synthetic tests
In synthetic test packages, the Intel Core i7-2600 shows excellent results. In the PCMark 05 package, this chip scores 11,899 points. Only the older model of this family with an index of 2700 and a test result of 12,297 points is ahead of it. All other chips of the previous or the same generation lose to him. For comparison: i5-2500K in this case gives out 11,649, i7-980 - 11,095 and Phenom 1100T - 10,551 points. The difference with later flagship chips will be 5% for the 3rd generation, 10% for the 4th and 5th generations, and 15-20% for the most recent representatives of this architecture of the 6th and 7th generations. A similar alignment of forces is in the CrystalMark test package. Its current version is 0.9. The hero of this review in this case is gaining 72,378 points. At the same time, the older model i7 - 2700K produces 74,132. The junior i5-2500K chip - 70,963, i7-980 - 61,986, and Phenom 1100T - 52,057. Synthetic tests are, of course, good. But the real speed of a computer system can only be estimated in game tests, and this is what the next section will discuss.
Testing in gaming applications
In all gaming applications without exception, the i7-2600 processor produces excellent results. For example, in Tom Clancy's, the hero of this review article produces an FPS of 120. The flagship model i7-2700K boasts a similar FPS in this gaming application. The i5-2500K has a slightly lower value in this game - 117. But full-fledged 6-core chips give out: i7-980 - 129 FPS and Phenom 1100T - 144 FPS. There is a quite logical explanation for such results: this software is capable of using more than 4 computing modules for processing program code.
Completely different results in Far Cry version 2. The hero of this article and the flagship of this generation of CPUs are capable of averaging 146 FPS. This value is slightly lower for the i5-2500K - 144. But 6-core CPUs in this case give not so good results. i7-980 - 140, and Phenom 1100T - 95 in general. In this case, the software is already "sharpened" for 4 physical cores, and the better their architecture, the higher the FPS value. Again, the values given earlier are valid for the 1280x1024 mode. If you increase the resolution to 1920x1080, then the indicated values are reduced by 20% on average. But at the same time, the gameplay will still be very, very comfortable. In any modern gaming application, the hero of this article produces a comfortable number of frames per second, and his performance margin is still enough for quite a long time. But this is nothing special for the reason that it has excellent technical specifications and is practically in no way inferior to modern flagships.
The cost of a semiconductor solution today
A very, very expensive chip for its time was the i7-2600. The price for it on the official website of the manufacturer was set at around $ 266. But such a cost of this product was relevant for 2012 or 2013. Now this CPU in particular, as well as the platform as a whole, are outdated both morally and physically. Stocks of it sold out a long time ago. Therefore, you can purchase this modification of the semiconductor only in a used condition. The i7-2600 is priced at 13,000-15,000 rubles on various trading floors on the Global Web. The price may be lower, but this is most likely an exception to the rule, or the processor is damaged after overclocking and does not function quite stably.
The date the product was first introduced.
Lithography
Lithography refers to the semiconductor technology used to manufacture an integrated circuit, and is reported in nanometer (nm), indicative of the size of features built on the semiconductor.
Use Conditions
Use conditions are the environmental and operating conditions derived from the context of system use.
For SKU specific use condition information, see PRQ report .
For current use condition information, see Intel UC (CNDA site)*.
# of Cores
Cores is a hardware term that describes the number of independent central processing units in a single computing component (die or chip).
# of threads
A Thread, or thread of execution, is a software term for the basic ordered sequence of instructions that can be passed through or processed by a single CPU core.
Processor Base Frequency
Processor Base Frequency describes the rate at which the processor"s transistors open and close. The processor base frequency is the operating point where TDP is defined. Frequency is typically measured in gigahertz (GHz), or billion cycles per second.
Max Turbo Frequency
Max turbo frequency is the maximum single core frequency at which the processor is capable of operating using Intel® Turbo Boost Technology and, if present, Intel® Thermal Velocity Boost. Frequency is typically measured in gigahertz (GHz), or billion cycles per second.
Cache
CPU Cache is an area of fast memory located on the processor. Intel® Smart Cache refers to the architecture that allows all cores to dynamically share access to the last level cache.
bus speed
A bus is a subsystem that transfers data between computer components or between computers. Types include front-side bus (FSB), which carries data between the CPU and memory controller hub; direct media interface (DMI), which is a point-to-point interconnection between an Intel integrated memory controller and an Intel I/O controller hub on the computer's motherboard; and Quick Path Interconnect (QPI), which is a point-to-point interconnect between the CPU and the integrated memory controller.
TDP
Thermal Design Power (TDP) represents the average power, in watts, the processor dissipates when operating at Base Frequency with all cores active under an Intel-defined, high-complexity workload. Refer to datasheet for thermal solution requirements.
Embedded Options Available
Embedded Options Available indicates products that offer extended purchase availability for intelligent systems and embedded solutions. Product certification and use condition applications can be found in the Production Release Qualification (PRQ) report. See your Intel representative for details.
Max Memory Size (dependent on memory type)
Max memory size refers to the maximum memory capacity supported by the processor.
Memory Types
Intel® processors come in four different types: a Single Channel, Dual Channel, Triple Channel, and Flex Mode.
Max # of Memory Channels
The number of memory channels refers to the bandwidth operation for real world application.
Max Memory Bandwidth
Max Memory bandwidth is the maximum rate at which data can be read from or stored into a semiconductor memory by the processor (in GB/s).
ECC Memory Supported‡
ECC Memory Supported indicates processor support for Error-Correcting Code memory. ECC memory is a type of system memory that can detect and correct common kinds of internal data corruption. Note that ECC memory support requires both processor and chipset support.
Processor Graphics‡
Processor Graphics indicates graphics processing circuitry integrated into the processor, providing the graphics, compute, media, and display capabilities. Intel® HD Graphics, Iris™ Graphics, Iris Plus Graphics, and Iris Pro Graphics deliver enhanced media conversion, fast frame rates, and 4K Ultra HD (UHD) video. See the Intel® Graphics Technology page for more information.
Graphics Base Frequency
Graphics Base frequency refers to the rated/guaranteed graphics render clock frequency in MHz.
Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency
Graphics max dynamic frequency refers to the maximum opportunistic graphics render clock frequency (in MHz) that can be supported using Intel® HD Graphics with Dynamic Frequency feature.
Intel® Quick Sync Video
Intel® Quick Sync Video delivers fast conversion of video for portable media players, online sharing, and video editing and authoring.
Intel® InTru™ 3D Technology
Intel® InTru™ 3D Technology provides stereoscopic 3-D Blu-ray* playback in full 1080p resolution over HDMI* 1.4 and premium audio.
Intel® Flexible Display Interface (Intel® FDI)
The Intel® Flexible Display Interface is an innovative path for two independently controlled channels of integrated graphics to be displayed.
Intel® Clear Video HD Technology
Intel® Clear Video HD Technology, like its predecessor, Intel® Clear Video Technology, is a suite of image decode and processing technologies built into the integrated processor graphics that improve video playback, delivering cleaner, sharper images, more natural, accurate, and vivid colors, and a clear and stable video picture. Intel® Clear Video HD Technology adds video quality enhancements for richer color and more realistic skin tones.
PCI Express Revision
PCI Express Revision is the version supported by the processor. Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (or PCIe) is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard for attaching hardware devices to a computer. The different PCI Express versions support different data rates.
Max # of PCI Express Lanes
A PCI Express (PCIe) lane consists of two differential signaling pairs, one for receiving data, one for transmitting data, and is the basic unit of the PCIe bus. # of PCI Express Lanes is the total number supported by the processor.
Sockets Supported
The socket is the component that provides the mechanical and electrical connections between the processor and motherboard.
T CASE
Case Temperature is the maximum temperature allowed at the processor Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS).
Intel® Turbo Boost Technology‡
Intel® Turbo Boost Technology dynamically increases the processor"s frequency as needed by taking advantage of thermal and power headroom to give you a burst of speed when you need it, and increased energy efficiency when you don't.
Intel® vPro™ Platform Eligibility‡
The Intel vPro® platform is a set of hardware and technologies used to build business computing endpoints with premium performance, built-in security, modern manageability and platform stability.
Learn more about Intel vPro®
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology‡
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology (Intel® HT Technology) delivers two processing threads per physical core. Highly threaded applications can get more work done in parallel, completing tasks sooner.
Intel® Virtualization Technology (VT-x)‡
Intel® Virtualization Technology (VT-x) allows one hardware platform to function as multiple “virtual” platforms. It offers improved manageability by limiting downtime and maintaining productivity by isolating computing activities into separate partitions.
Intel® Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d) ‡
Intel® Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d) continues from the existing support for IA-32 (VT-x) and Itanium® processor (VT-i) virtualization adding new support for I/O-device virtualization. Intel VT-d can help end users improve security and reliability of the systems and also improve performance of I/O devices in virtualized environments.
Intel® VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT) ‡
Intel® VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT), also known as Second Level Address Translation (SLAT), provides acceleration for memory intensive virtualized applications. Extended Page Tables in Intel® Virtualization Technology platforms reduces the memory and power overhead costs and increases battery life through hardware optimization of page table management.
Intel® 64‡
Intel® 64 architecture delivers 64-bit computing on server, workstation, desktop and mobile platforms when combined with supporting software.¹ Intel 64 architecture improves performance by allowing systems to address more than 4 GB of both virtual and physical memory.
instruction set
An instruction set refers to the basic set of commands and instructions that a microprocessor understands and can carry out. The value shown represents which Intel's instruction set this processor is compatible with.
Instruction Set Extensions
Instruction Set Extensions are additional instructions which can increase performance when the same operations are performed on multiple data objects. These can include SSE (Streaming SIMD Extensions) and AVX (Advanced Vector Extensions).
Idle States
Idle States (C-states) are used to save power when the processor is idle. C0 is the operational state, meaning that the CPU is doing useful work. C1 is the first idle state, C2 the second, and so on, where more power saving actions are taken for numerically higher C-states.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology is an advanced means of enabling high performance while meeting the power-conservation needs of mobile systems. Conventional Intel SpeedStep® Technology switches both voltage and frequency in tandem between high and low levels in response to processor load. Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology builds upon that architecture using design strategies such as Separation between Voltage and Frequency Changes, and Clock Partitioning and Recovery.
Thermal Monitoring Technologies
Thermal Monitoring Technologies protect the processor package and the system from thermal failure through several thermal management features. An on-die Digital Thermal Sensor (DTS) detects the core's temperature, and the thermal management features reduce package power consumption and thereby temperature when required in order to remain within normal operating limits.
Intel® Fast Memory Access
Intel® Fast Memory Access is an updated Graphics Memory Controller Hub (GMCH) backbone architecture that improves system performance by optimizing the use of available memory bandwidth and reducing the latency of the memory accesses.
Intel® Flex Memory Access
Intel® Flex Memory Access facilitates easier upgrades by allowing different memory sizes to be populated and remain in dual-channel mode.
Intel® Identity Protection Technology‡
Intel® Identity Protection Technology is a built-in security token technology that helps provide a simple, tamper-resistant method for protecting access to your online customer and business data from threats and fraud. Intel® IPT provides a hardware-based proof of a unique user's PC to websites, financial institutions, and network services; providing verification that it is not malware attempting to login. Intel® IPT can be a key component in two-factor authentication solutions to protect your information at websites and business log-ins.
Intel® AES New Instructions
Intel® AES New Instructions (Intel® AES-NI) are a set of instructions that enable fast and secure data encryption and decryption. AES-NI are valuable for a wide range of cryptographic applications, for example: applications that perform bulk encryption/decryption, authentication, random number generation, and authenticated encryption.
Intel® Trusted Execution Technology‡
Intel® Trusted Execution Technology for safer computing is a versatile set of hardware extensions to Intel® processors and chipsets that enhance the digital office platform with security capabilities such as measured launch and protected execution. It enables an environment where applications can run within their own space, protected from all other software on the system.
Execute Disable Bit‡
Execute Disable Bit is a hardware-based security feature that can reduce exposure to viruses and malicious-code and prevent harmful software from executing and propagating on the server or network.