INTEL

Intel Xeon Platinum 9242

Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores

48
Cores
96
Threads
3.8
GHz Boost
350W
TDP
πŸ›‘οΈECC Memory

Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 Specifications

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Xeon Platinum 9242 Core Configuration

Processing cores and threading

The Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 features 48 physical cores and 96 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.

Cores
48
Threads
96
SMP CPUs
8
⏱️

Platinum 9242 Clock Speeds

Base and boost frequencies

Clock speed is a critical factor in Xeon Platinum 9242 benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Xeon Platinum 9242 by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.

Base Clock
2.3 GHz
Boost Clock
3.8 GHz
Multiplier
23x
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Intel's Xeon Platinum 9242 Cache Hierarchy

L1, L2, L3 cache sizes

Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the Platinum 9242 processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Xeon Platinum 9242's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.

L1 Cache
64 KB (per core)
L2 Cache
1 MB (per core)
L3 Cache
71.5 MB (shared)
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Cascade Lake Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 is built on Intel's 14 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in Platinum 9242 incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.

Architecture
Cascade Lake
Codename
Cascade Lake-AP
Process Node
14 nm
Foundry
Intel
Transistors
8,000 million
Generation
Xeon Platinum (Cascade Lake-AP)
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Cascade Lake Instruction Set Features

Supported CPU instructions and extensions

The Xeon Platinum 9242 by Intel supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.

MMX
SSE
SSE2
SSE3
SSSE3
SSE4.1
SSE4.2
AVX
AVX2
AVX-512
FMA3
SHA
AES-NI
F16C
BMI1
BMI2
Intel 64
VT-x
VT-d
DL Boost
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Platinum 9242 Power & Thermal

TDP and power specifications

The Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 350W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.

TDP
350W
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Intel BGA 5903 Platform & Socket

Compatibility information

The Xeon Platinum 9242 uses the Intel BGA 5903 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.

Socket
Intel BGA 5903
Package
FC-BGA5903
DDR5

Intel BGA 5903 Memory Support

RAM compatibility and speeds

Memory support specifications for the Platinum 9242 define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Xeon Platinum 9242 determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.

Memory Type
DDR4
ECC Memory
Supported
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Xeon Platinum 9242 Product Information

Release and pricing details

The Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 is manufactured by Intel and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Xeon Platinum 9242 by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.

Manufacturer
Intel
Release Date
Apr 2019
Market
Server/Workstation

Xeon Platinum 9242 Benchmark Scores

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No benchmark data available for this CPU.

About Intel Xeon Platinum 9242

If you're considering the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 for daily tasks, you might be wondering how well this processor, known for its massive 48 cores and 96 threads, fits into a typical home or office environment. The Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 chip is designed for heavy computing, so while it can certainly breeze through everyday software like email clients, web browsers, and basic office suites, it's almost like using a supercar just to commute to work. Still, if your daily routine includes running multiple virtual machines, handling large datasets, or managing a complex server setup, then the Intel Xeon 9242 processor could be exactly what you need. But the question remains: is the power of the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 from Intel wasted on simple tasks, or does it bring unmatched reliability and speed even to mundane work?

Turning to gaming possibilities, the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 isn’t typically the first chip that springs to mind for most gamers, who usually look for high clock speeds and great single-core performance. With a base clock of 2.30 GHz and the ability to turbo up to 3.80 GHz, the Intel Xeon 9242 processor isn’t optimized for the high-frame-rate demands of modern games. However, if you're running a gaming server, streaming setup, or handling multiple gaming clients simultaneously, the 96 threads of the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 chip could prove very useful indeed. Still, one wonders: is the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 from Intel simply overkill for gaming, or can it offer a unique advantage for specialized multiplayer environments?

When it comes to price-to-performance, the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 is definitely at the premium end of the scale, with a high TDP of 350W and a cost that matches its enterprise-grade pedigree. For organizations or users who require the extensive core count and immense parallel processing power, the investment in the Intel Xeon 9242 processor could pay off handsomely in terms of throughput and scalability. Yet for home users or smaller businesses, the price tag might seem exorbitant, especially if the workload doesn’t fully utilize the capabilities of the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 chip. This raises the question: is the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 from Intel a sensible purchase for those not running data centers, or is it reserved for the most demanding enterprise environments?

Looking at platform requirements, the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 uses the Intel BGA 5903 socket, which means you'll need a compatible motherboard and a robust cooling solution to handle the 350W thermal design power. Upgrading to the Intel Xeon 9242 processor isn't as simple as swapping out an old CPU; it demands careful planning and often a complete system refresh. Additionally, the 14 nm manufacturing process, while reliable, means you won't get the latest efficiency gains found in newer chips. Is the hassle and cost of building around the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 chip justified by its performance, or would a newer generation processor offer a better balance for your needs? In the end, the Intel Xeon Platinum 9242 from Intel remains a fascinating choice for the right audience, but only if the demands and resources align perfectly.

The AMD Equivalent of Xeon Platinum 9242

Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 3500U offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.

AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 3500U

AMD β€’ 4 Cores

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