Introduction to Intel 12th/13th Generation Processors

In the fast-evolving world of computer hardware, Intel has consistently been at the forefront of innovation. With the release of their 12th and 13th generation processors, they have showcased their commitment to pushing the boundaries of computing power. 

However, what made Intel’s 12th/13th generation so strong, and why was it so different in comparison to their preceding generational processors? In this blog, we will dive into the key features and advancements offered by Intel's 12th and 13th generation processors, highlighting the impact these new processors bring to the overall market.

What Changed From 10th to 12th Generation

Intel burst into the market in 2021 with the launch of its 12th Generation CPU, and quickly followed up with 13th Gen in Late 2022. With the release of these CPUs, Intel developed a brand-new core architecture that brings efficiency and reliability to a new level. Moving away from 14nm into a all-new 10nm++ process that was heavily inspired by ARM’s big.LITTLE architecture, Intel created their own version of hybrid processors with a configuration of a mix of performance and efficiency cores.  

Nicknamed Intel 7 (FKA Intel 10nm Enhanced SuperFin), this was the company's name for their 10nm process that succeeded their 14nm chip making process before. While the confusing naming is misleading, this was Intel’s overall plan to rebrand and realign itself with competing companies such as TSMC. With this current die process, Intel has noted that Intel 7 chips boost approximately 10 – 15 perfect overall improvements in performance per watt compared to previous generations.  

Going from 10th Generation to 12th Generation was a giant milestone for Intel and allowed for huge upgrades overall. The new CPUs now support DDR5 memory and the allocated PCIe lanes support up to PCIe Gen 5, which increases the speed of data transfer speeds. With a completely redesigned CPU, many of the existing features that came with it were also significantly improved as well. 

LGA Socket

With a complete redesign of Intel’s CPU architecture, this effectively changes the entirety of how computer parts will be designed. Like how 10th Generation Intel processors ran on the LGA 1200 socket which was incompatible with its previous socket (LG1151), despite minor adjustments and the same socket size. With Intel’s newly supported socket, LGA 1700, the socket was completely overhauled. The shape of the chip physically changed and existing motherboards before 12th Gen Intel became entirely non-compatible. This effectively means that any cooling solutions created had to be updated as well 

New Chipset

With Intel 12th/13th Generation, a new chipset was selected to accompany the processor. With a new socket upgrade, compatible motherboards to accompany the new CPUs now require Intel 700 or Intel 600 Series chipsets in order to support the new generation. This cross-generation compatibility enables high speed connection and communication.  

Hybrid Architecture: P+E cores

At the heart of Intel’s new previously mentioned hybrid chip architecture are its brand-new P & E Cores. Taking direct inspiration from ARM’s big.LITTLE architecture, Intel’s design also focused on a two-core strategy. Larger, performance driven cores (Golden Cove or Raptor Cove, P-core) would tackle compute-intensive and AI workloads, while the smaller, energy efficient cores (Gracemont, E-core) take on the high-density everyday tasks.  

The Performance cores are the same well-known cores that we all know and love. They are the same strong, high clock speed cores that do a lot of heavy lifting to run large programs such as games, video editing software, and more. Intel now utilizes hyper-threading, an innovative multithreading technology that allows the CPU to function more efficiently than traditional single threading, booting overall performance and processing. 

The Efficiency cores are newly introduced smaller and weaker cores whose sole focus is to help the overall CPU achieve better performance per watt. They run at low power and low clock speeds, taking care of many small, background tasks that clear up room for the Performance Cores to do their job.  

How do P&E Cores work with Windows 11

With the new P&E cores from Intel, how does your software know when to utilize which core to use during tasks? With Windows 11, intel collaborated with Microsoft to introduce a hybrid scheduler that allows the operating system to prioritize cores before utilizing hyper-threads. Intel also introduced “Thread Director” that intelligentially handles which tasks are allocated to which core. Intel's Thread Director is a microcontroller that is built into each processor and is optimized with Windows 11 Task Scheduler to decide which thread goes where (P-core or E-core) and ensures synergy across all cores.  

What does this mean for Intel’s CPUs now

With the latest generational upgrade in Intel’s chip, performance is greatly enhanced without consuming enormous amounts of power, a huge detriment when it comes to deployments in harsh environments. Working together, this hybrid architecture allowed Intel CPUs to perform better using the same power consumption as previous generations.  

With Intel Core i3/i5/i7/i9 TE Processors, system integrators can select from a wide range of performance hybrid architectures that are optimized for edge and IoT applications in a low 35-65W. Its newly enhanced graphics with Intel UHD 770 now allow up to 4 independent displays, and data transfer speeds are linearly increased through DDR5 and PCIe Gen 5 support.  

Benefits of Intel TE Model Processors for Embedded and Edge Deployments

One of the very specific naming schemes and models of Intel’s is their TE model. This particular model is a line of CPUs that are designed with low power consumption in mind when compared to the consumer line. T, meaning thermal enhanced, is their scheme for low power consumption, while the E, meaning embedded, signifies its direct relationship for the embedded market. These chips boast a rather low 35W TDP compared to the normal 65W that is seen in other models of Intel CPUs.  

These low, power efficient CPUs are primarily designed for edge and IoT applications in mind, where thermal cooling is limited to fanless and cableless designs. By reducing the amount of heat generated, it allows ruggedized industrial computers to function in harsh environments, where a normal desktop computer could not. 

Intel 12th Generation Overview 

The Intel 12th gen core processors (Alder Lake), launched in January 2022, represent a groundbreaking advancement tailored for IoT applications. As the first chip built on Intel’s brand-new hybrid architecture, Alder Lake processors yielded up to 1.36x acceleration in a single thread performance and 1.35x in multi-threaded performance.  

What are the features of the 12th generation processor? 

• Up to 16 cores and 24 threads 
• Up to DDR5-4800 MT/s, up to DDR4-3200 MT/s 
• Enhanced AI capabilities 
• Features Intel UHD graphics 770, powered by intel Xe architecture 
• I/O includes PCIe 5.0 ready/PCIe 4.0 and USB 3.2 gen 2x2 
• Support for discrete Wi-Fi 6E 
• Real-time capabilities to enhance IoT potential 
• Support for up to 8K video for video wall deployment 

12th Gen Intel Core Desktop Processors Comparison

Source: Intel 

Intel 13th Generation Overview

Intel 13th gen (Raptor Lake) is the next generation of the 12th generation Alder Lake, retaining the foundational architecture of the latter. Introduced in October 2022, the Intel 13th Gen represents the next steps in Intel’s pursuit of improving their new architecture. Building upon the foundation set by its previous generation, this generation enhanced performance, energy efficiency, and integrated features tailored for the modern computing landscape. 

What are the features of the 13th generation processor? 

• Features up to 24 cores and 32 threads  
• Industry-first bandwidth with up to 16 PCIe 5.0 lanes. 
• Supports DDR5 up to 5600 MT/s & DDR4 up to 3200 MT/s, 
• Powerful suite of tuning and overclocking tools. 
• Best-in-class connectivity with Intel® Killer™ Wi-Fi 6/6E,12 
• Support for Thunderbolt™ 4 allows for up to 40 Gbps of data transfer rates as well as PC connecting to numerous 4K monitors and accessories. 
• Supports vibrant visuals for up to 8K60 HDR video and 4 simultaneous 4K60 displays 
• Compatibility with Intel 700 series chipsets and backward support for Intel 600 series chipsets. 
• Improved performance with larger L2 cache for both P-core and E-core compared to previous Intel generations. 

13th Gen Intel Core Desktop Processors Comparison

Source: Intel 

Comparative Analysis: 12th Gen vs. 13th Gen Performance

The 12th generation Intel CPUs support up to 16 cores, comprising 8 P-cores and 8 E-cores. In contrast, the 13th generation advances with up to 24 cores, split between 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores, offering superior performance metrics compared to its previous generation. While the P-core is tailored for peak performance, the E-core is optimized for efficiency and reduced power consumption. Intel's data indicates that the 13th generation CPUs boast an 11% improvement in single-threaded performance and a remarkable 49% enhancement in multi-core performance relative to the 12th generation, marking a substantial progression in performance. 

Memory

DDR5 represents the evolution of DRAM technology, boasting marked enhancements in speed and energy efficiency compared to DDR4. While both Intel's 12th and 13th generation processors support DDR4-3200 and DDR5-4800, Intel’s 13th generation uniquely supports DDR5-5600, a step up from the DDR5-4800 compatibility of the 12th generation. When paired with a DDR5-compatible motherboard, these processors can achieve data transfer rates of up to 3200 MT/s. Additionally, DDR5's superior power efficiency compared to DDR4 positions itself as a prime choice for mobile devices. Furthermore, DDR5 introduces superior Error Correction Code (ECC) to mitigate data corruption risks. Given these advancements, DDR5 is set to establish itself as the future benchmark for DRAM. 

Power Efficiency

Intel enhanced its 13th-generation desktop processor lineup of CPUs, delivering outstanding performance while prioritizing energy efficiency. This advancement positions the 13th Gen CPUs as more power-efficient than their 12th Gen counterparts.  

However, with both 12th and 13th Generation CPUs using Intel’s latest 10nm process, they take advantage of the hybrid architecture to split power draw between power hungry performance cores and simple low power cores. As previously mentioned, Intel takes running applications with their Thread Director to help coordinate the allocation of processes to the correct core. By doing so, it greatly increases performance without also increasing the power consumption that the CPU.  

With specially selected 35W TDP 12th and 13th Generation processors, these TE models provide even greater benefits to x86 industrial computing at the rugged edge. The performance increase seen does not jeopardize very precise power consumption that is carefully managed at the edge. This allows industrial deployments to increase the output of their workloads while still maintaining the same rugged and passive cooling infrastructure that is required in many edge IoT applications.  

What 12th/13th Generation means for Industry 4.0

With the 12th and 13th Generation rolling out into the market, we can quickly see adoption slowly of these processors slowly integrate into industrial markets as well. As AI workloads continue to grow and advance, the demand for high performance processing will draw attention. AI, Robotics, and Computer vision are large areas investing heavily into scalable systems to harness the full potential of emerging AI powered workloads. At the very center are high performance industrial computers that are designed to integrate with Intel’s latest processors to provide robust, versatile, and reliable edge-centric automation.  

Premio’s ADL/RPL Family: Bridging the Gap

In today's fast-paced technological landscape, keeping pace with the latest advancements is essential. At Premio, we're excited to share the latest family of RPL supported products. A full range of Intel 12th/13th generation supported products that are designed to deliver the highest performance to power efficiency to tackle any industrial workload at the rugged edge. 

RCO-6000-RPL – AI Edge Industrial Computer

The RCO-6000-RPL follows a two-piece modular structure with the top module being the rugged Industrial Computer and the performance accelerator, EDGEBoost Node, for the bottom module. Users can pick and choose from a selection of performance acceleration to provide customization and flexibility to best suit their deployments  

• Intel® 13th/12th Gen RPL/ADL CPU  
• LGA 1700 socket for 12/13th Gen 
• Intel® R680E Chipset 
• 2x DDR5 4800/5600MHz SODIMM 
• 8x DI + 8x DO with isolation 
• Triple Independent Display  
• EDGEBoost I/O Modules for AI/NVMe 
• EDGEBoost Node Support for GPU & Storage integration 
• UL Listed 

VCO-6000-RPL - Industrial Machine Vision Computer

Purpose-built to streamline computer vision applications, the VCO-6000-RPL can support up to 2 full length GPUs. Its rugged design ensures durability while delivering unparalleled performance, making it the choice for the next generation of AI, Machine Learning, and deep learning applications at the rugged edge 

• Intel® 13th/12th Gen RPL/ADL CPU  
• LGA 1700 socket for 12/13th Gen 
• Intel® R680E Chipset  
• DDR5 4800/5600MHz SODIMM. Max. up to 64GB (ECC and Non-ECC) 
• Triple Displays (5K up to 8K)  
• Dual High-Performance GPU Expansions 
• Scalable SATA and NVMe Storage 
• UL Listed 

KCO-2000-RPL/KCO-3000-RPL – Certification Ready, Fanned Industrial Computer

The KCO Series are fanned COTS (commercial off-the-shelf) industrial computers purpose-built for IIoT deployments. It offers extended lifecycle longevity and regulatory certifications, including UL Listed, for seamless OEM/ODM system integration processes. 

• Supports mATX 12th/13th Gen Motherboard 
• Fanned Industrial 2U/3U Rackmount Chassis 
• Certification Ready – UL, CE, FCC 

CT-MRL01 – Micro-ATX Industrial Motherboard

Introducing the CT-MRL01 Micro-ATX Industrial Motherboard designed to harness the capabilities of the Intel® 13th Gen Raptor Lake processors. The CT-MRL01 is the backbone of high-performance systems, facilitating advanced technologies, including PCIe Gen 5, Four Independent Displays, and USB Type-C. With scalable PCIe and M.2 options, this motherboard offers resilience and endurance for industrial environments and the agility to drive performance in AI, Machine Learning, and deep learning operations. Built to withstand the demands of rugged applications, the CT-MRL01 sets new standards for reliability, balance, and performance in complex AI Edge environments.

• mATX board with LG1700 Socket 
• Support 12th/13th Gen Intel® Core™ i9/i7/i5/i3 Alder lake-S, Raptor Lake-S Processor (65W Max TDP) 
• Intel® Q670E chipset 
• 4x 288-pin DDR4 DIMM. Max. up to 128GB 

These diverse features are carefully designed to deliver excellent performance and efficiency. Each CPU is selected from Intel’s Core S-Series featuring a low 35W TDP, allowing for low power consumption in industrial deployments.  

Conclusion

Intel's 12th and 13th generation CPUs showcase the company's commitment to pushing technological boundaries. With the introduction of hybrid architecture and the addition of DDR5 memory and PCIe Gen5, Intel has set new benchmarks in performance and efficiency. The 13th generation stands out, especially with its focus on power efficiency. In simpler terms, Intel is not just making CPUs faster; they're making them smarter and more adaptable for the future. For anyone keeping an eye on tech advancements, Intel's recent innovations signal exciting times ahead. 

As of the publication of this blog, Intel is showing no signs of slowing down, with the launch of their 14th Generation processor, Raptor Lake Refresh, for the consumer market. Intel’s commitment to optimization and refinement continues to grow, and it only marks the beginning of what the future may hold.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Should I purchase Intel 12th or 13th Gen?

Both CPUs offer enhanced power to performance, especially in an industrial deployment. The decision to purchase a 12th or 13th CPU should come down to the limitations and requirements based on your deployment.

2. Is there a big difference between 12th and 13th Gen Intel? 

While both CPUs operate on Intel’s latest 10nm process, Intel 13th generation provides higher performance in more cores when compared to 12th generation. However, both chips will shine when compared to previous Intel generations.  

3. Do 12th Generation motherboards support 13th Generation?

Yes, both CPUs utilize the LGA1700 socket, meaning that the CPUs are pin to pin compatible. 

4. Is it worth upgrading from 12th Generation to 13th Generation?

While it may yield higher performance for a similar TDP, this again will fall upon the needs of your deployment. For many industrial applications, an increase in performance is not always necessary as power efficiency and reliability are more heavily favored.

5. Is Intel 7 actually 7nm?

Intel 7 is a given name to Intel’s 10nm process that is a similar transistor density to TSMC’s 7nm process.