Intel Halts Shipments of Xeon Sapphire Rapids Chips Due to Bug
Intel has temporarily paused shipments of certain SKUs of its Xeon Sapphire Rapids chips since mid-June due to a Bug that could potentially interrupt system operation under certain conditions. The bug was not observed when running commercially available software, and other Xeon processor SKUs have not exhibited the issue.
An Intel spokesperson stated that the chipmaker is proactively addressing the issue with a firmware fix for a limited number of MCC-based Xeon processors. While the firmware mitigation is not expected to impact performance, Intel is working to validate the fix as a precautionary measure, with the new firmware set to be delivered in the coming weeks.
The bug is specific to the Sapphire Rapids MCC design, which is used for chips up to 32 cores. The pause in shipments is due to design issues related to this particular design. However, the exact nature of the bug and its impact on specific SKUs remains unclear.
Despite the pause in shipments, the fact that Intel can address the issue with a firmware fix without the need for processor replacement is promising. This indicates that the bug is either contained to certain SKUs or can be rectified at the assembly level, providing relief to affected customers.
Intel has recently faced challenges with process node tech and design and validation methodology. In response, the company plans to adopt a different approach to design, simulation, and validation flow in the next generation of Xeon processors.
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