Intel has announced that its new next generation Broadwell processors are delayed due to manufacturing problems. The manufacturing problems are related to a ‘defect density issue’ in Intel’s new 14nm manufacturing process.
This has led to lower yields of the processors, and Intel’s first round of fixes did not improve the yields as they had hoped, which has meant that they are now delayed.
The new Broadwell processors were scheduled to go into production in the last quarter of 2013. However, the schedule has now been delayed until next year, and they are expected to enter mass production in the first quarter of 2014.
Understanding the Broadwell Delay
The delay of the Broadwell processors is a significant setback for Intel, as the company had high expectations for this new line of CPUs. The ‘defect density issue’ refers to the number of defects per unit area on the silicon wafer. In the case of the 14nm manufacturing process, the defect density was higher than acceptable, leading to lower yields. This means that fewer usable chips were produced from each wafer, making the manufacturing process inefficient and costly.
Intel’s initial attempts to rectify the defect density issue did not yield the desired results. Despite implementing several rounds of fixes, the yields did not improve to the expected levels. This has forced Intel to push back the production timeline, impacting not only their schedule but also the plans of manufacturers and consumers who were eagerly awaiting the new processors.
Implications of the Delay
The delay in the Broadwell processors has several implications. For one, it affects the entire supply chain, from component manufacturers to end consumers. Companies that were planning to integrate Broadwell CPUs into their products will now have to adjust their timelines and possibly look for alternative solutions in the interim.
Moreover, the delay gives competitors an opportunity to capture market share. Companies like AMD, which are also working on advanced processors, could benefit from Intel’s setback. This could lead to increased competition in the CPU market, potentially driving innovation and better pricing for consumers.
As yet, we do not have many details about Intel’s new Broadwell CPUs and platform. What we do know is that Broadwell is a refined version of Intel’s current Haswell platform. The Broadwell processors are expected to offer improved performance and energy efficiency compared to their Haswell counterparts. This makes them highly anticipated in both consumer and enterprise markets.
As yet, there are no details on exactly when production will start on these new Broadwell processors. All we know is that production has been put back until the first quarter of next year. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity for companies planning their product launches around the availability of Broadwell CPUs.
In conclusion, while the delay of Intel’s Broadwell processors is a setback, it also highlights the challenges and complexities involved in advancing semiconductor technology. The move to a 14nm process is a significant technological leap, and overcoming the associated challenges is crucial for Intel’s future success. As we await further updates, the industry will be closely watching how Intel addresses these issues and moves forward with its production plans.
Source Ars Technica
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