The secondary market for server equipment is a treasure trove of original OEM versions of AMD Epyc processors. Such modifications cannot be found on store shelves as they are not available for retail sale. Initially, they were designed for large data centers, which determined their unique technical parameters and capabilities. Today, their reduced cost and excellent CPU performance are attracting increasing attention from small companies and enthusiasts alike. This article focuses on Epyc processors of the 2nd and 3rd generations, their main features, and advantages.
OEM Processor: What Is It and Where Does It Come From?
| Model | Specifications | Features | Motherboard Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7D12 100-000000044 |
32 cores 1.1-3.0Ghz 128Mb 85W |
Energy-efficient CPU Supports only 4 memory sticks (+) |
Asus KRPA-16U (+) |
| 7K62 100-000000109 |
48 cores 2.6-3.3Ghz 192Mb 240W |
OEM version of 7642 | Supermicro H11DSi (+) Supermicro H11DSi-NT (+) Asrock Rack EPYCD8 (+) Asrock Rack Romed8-2T (+) |
| 7B12 100-000000020 |
64 cores 2.25-3.3Ghz 256Mb 240W |
Supermicro H11DSI-NT (+) |
| Model | Specifications | Features | Motherboard Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7R13 |
48 cores 2.65-3.7GHz 280W |
||
| 7B13 100-000000335 |
64 cores 2.2GHz-3.5GHz 240W |
Custom order for Google Cloud Platform | Supermicro recommended |
| 7C13 100-000000315 |
64 cores 2.2-3.675Ghz 256Mb 165-225W |
OEM version of 7713 Configurable TDP («C» in the name stands for «configurable TDP»): TDP can be lowered or exceeded, effectively overclocking the processor |
Supermicro H12SSL-i (100%) Asrock Rack Romed8-2T (+) |
| 7J13 100-000000346 |
64 cores 2.45GHz-3.5GHz 280W |
Oracle, equivalent to 7763 | |
| 7K83 100-000000347 |
64 cores 2.45GHz-3.5GHz 280W |
Tencent Cloud, equivalent to 7763 | |
| 7T83 100-000000348 |
64 cores 2.45GHz-3.5GHz 280W |
Alibaba Cloud, based on 7763 | |
| 7Y83 100-000000325 |
64 cores 2.3GHz-3.5GHz 280W |
||
| 7V13 100-000000343 |
64 cores 2.2GHz-3.5GHz 280W |
Azure, based on 7763 | Asrock (+) |
| 7W83 100-000000314 |
64 cores 2.2GHz-3.5GHz 280W |
Baidu Cloud, based on 7763 |
What does an OEM processor version mean? Many large corporations purchase processors in huge batches. These include giants like Google and Microsoft. As a result, manufacturers not only offer significant discounts but also create modifications tailored to the needs of these companies. To avoid competition with other models on the market, these processors are not mass-produced, limiting their distribution. This has led to the emergence of Epyc modifications that, for example, only function in specific servers (Dell, HPE) or have BIOS-level restrictions, require specific microcode, etc. When such used processors are sold, there is usually a corresponding warning.
These "special" processors enter the secondary market in a straightforward manner. The server systems of large companies are constantly upgraded, and processors are replaced. As a result, smaller companies get the chance to purchase powerful chips at an affordable price. However, attention must be paid to the processor’s specifications, existing limitations, and compatibility with motherboards.
Today, we will look at models with unusual markings in their names that tend to scare off buyers. Moreover, their compatibility with motherboards is not well-studied, and they are not included in Microsoft’s list of compatible processors.
OEM Modifications of Epyc 2nd Generation
Let’s review a few interesting versions:
- 7D12. This modification is characterized by high energy efficiency and support for only four memory sticks. The processor is compatible with the Asus KRPA-16U motherboard. Other parameters include 32 cores, a frequency of 1.1-3 GHz, and a cache size of 128 MB.
- 7K62. This processor is compatible with many motherboards. It has 48 cores, a frequency of 2.6-3.3 GHz, and a cache size of 192 MB.
- This model is compatible with the Supermicro H11DSI-NT motherboard. The processor supports a frequency of 2.25-3.3 GHz, has a cache size of 256 MB, and 64 cores.
Third Generation Epyc
OEM processors offer as many as nine modifications. Among the most sought-after are:
- 7B13 with 64 cores. The processor supports a frequency of 2.2-3.5 GHz and was developed specifically for Google Cloud. It is recommended to use it with the Supermicro platform.
- 7R13 with 48 cores. The model supports a frequency of 2.65-3.7 GHz, making it optimal for multithreaded tasks.
- 7C13 with 64 cores. This modification is also characterized by a high frequency of 2.2-3.675 GHz and a cache size of 256 MB. Unlike other variants, this processor allows TDP configuration to achieve a balance between energy efficiency and performance.
It’s worth noting that cloud providers often prefer 64-core processors. Most versions are fully compatible with Supermicro.
Testing and Conclusions
Using the 7C13 model as an example, it can be noted that it operates at optimal TDP settings of 280 W. The cooling capacity of servers should be sufficient. The cores can easily be overclocked to the maximum frequency, but the capabilities of motherboards must be considered, as not all are designed for overclocking. This could lead to system failure.
Regarding compatibility with Windows 10, the processor’s parameters are displayed correctly, but its operation is not entirely accurate. The processor’s 128 threads are divided into two clusters, and many programs only use one of them, leading to reduced performance. However, performance can be improved by disabling SMT support in the BIOS.
Compatibility issues and the lack of a warranty make such processors a questionable choice. In reality, high-quality, high-performance equipment with a warranty is much more reliable. You can find it at https://powerup.ua/servernye-pk/. That said, used processors can be a cost-effective investment for enthusiasts and those looking to boost performance without spending a fortune.
