Login to Continue Learning
According to a recent report, Panther Lake production is experiencing difficulties. Reuters disclosed that Intel’s first 18A-based product has not met expectations in terms of production volume. Only a small percentage of the Panther Lake (PTL) chips are satisfactory for customers due to insufficient yield rates and an overall slowed momentum in the foundry and CPU business. Panther Lake was supposed to bring Intel back into the market, but current progress is lagging.
Intel had planned for PTL’s launch in Q4 with increased volume expected by Q1 next year. However, supply chain sources report that there’s a stall in Panther Lake’s progress due to limited yield rate advancements with 18A technology. Currently, only 10% of the PTL chips produced meet Intel’s specifications, indicating significant chip defects. Reports suggest that PTL chips have “three times too many defects” for high-volume manufacturing (HVM), which is a concerning situation.
The reliance on 18A for Panther Lake production appears to be holding Intel back. Intel has confirmed that the 18A process and its derivatives are intended only for internal use, indicating a potential loss of momentum in the foundry division. As a result, PTL will see limited production in Q4, with plans to ramp up next year to address design changes and ensure an ideal solution for retail.
The situation for Intel and its 18A process is intriguing. Given that Intel has often stated it might abandon cutting-edge nodes if the foundry division doesn’t see a breakthrough, the outcome could have significant implications for the company’s future in the CPU market.
📚 Reading Comprehension Quiz
According to the report, what percentage of Panther Lake (PTL) chips are currently satisfactory for customers?
Please login or register to take the quiz and earn points!
