AMPERE Altra Max M96-28 Hardware IC Processor MQ - 96 ARMv8.2-A 64-bit CPU Cores - 2.8

Modern cloud-native data centers demand processors that deliver massive parallel throughput without exceeding power budgets. The Ampere Altra Max M96-28 answers that challenge with 96 high-efficiency ARMv8.2-A cores running at 2.8 GHz, purpose-built for hyperscale workloads, edge computing, and high-performance computing. This processor eliminates legacy x86 overhead, offering predictable performance per watt and linear scalability across dual-socket configurations.

Who is it for

Cloud service providers, hyperscale data center operators, and enterprises deploying containerized microservices, web tier applications, AI inference, and in-memory databases. It is equally suited for edge deployments where space and power are constrained but core density is critical.

Main features

• 96 ARM 64-bit cores based on the Ampere Altra Max architecture, each with 64KB L1 instruction and 64KB L1 data cache, plus 1MB L2 cache.
• 16MB shared System Level Cache (SLC) reduces memory latency and improves multi-threaded efficiency.
• 8-channel DDR4-3200 memory support with up to 4TB per socket for memory-intensive applications.
• 128 lanes of PCIe Gen4 connectivity for high-speed NVMe storage, network adapters, and accelerators.
• Hardware-based Root of Trust and ARM TrustZone for secure boot and runtime isolation.
• Dual-socket capable, enabling up to 192 cores per server node.
• TSMC 7nm process technology delivers exceptional performance per watt.

Specifications

• Processor series: Ampere Altra Max
• Architecture: ARMv8.2-A
• Core count: 96
• Max clock speed: 2.8 GHz
• Thermal Design Power (TDP): 250W
• Manufacturing process: TSMC 7nm
• Socket type: Ampere Mount (LGA)
• Memory type: DDR4-3200, 8-channel
• Max memory capacity: 4TB per socket
• PCIe version: Gen4, 128 lanes
• L1 cache: 64KB I-cache + 64KB D-cache per core
• L2 cache: 1MB per core
• System Level Cache: 16MB
• Multi-socket support: Up to 2-socket
• Virtualization: ARM TrustZone, KVM
• Security: Hardware-based Root of Trust

Tips

Pair this processor with high-density DDR4-3200 RDIMMs and PCIe Gen4 NVMe drives to fully utilize its memory bandwidth and I/O capabilities. For optimal thermal performance, ensure your server chassis provides adequate airflow for a 250W TDP. Leverage ARM-native container images to maximize efficiency in Kubernetes and OpenShift environments.