Intel Nova Lake-S: Key Details on Power Limits and Integrated Graphics
Recent leaks from trusted Intel source Jaykihn have shed light on the upcoming "Nova Lake-S" processor, which is set to feature 12 Xe3P integrated GPU cores. According to the latest information, the Power Limit 2 (PL2) for this chip is currently set at approximately 40 watts. This update builds on earlier reports suggesting that the integrated graphics solution would support two VCCGT power phases, allowing for up to 65 watts of power delivery in extreme scenarios.
CPU and GPU Configuration
The Nova Lake-S SKU is expected to include a combination of four Performance Cores (P-Cores), eight Efficient Cores (E-Cores), and four Low Power Efficient Cores (LPE-Cores), alongside the 12 Xe3P GPU cores. This unique 4+8+4 CPU core and 12 GPU core configuration is notable, as it is among the few Intel processors where the integrated graphics require a dual-phase VCCGT power rail. In most standard SKUs, VCCGT is typically a single-phase power rail for the integrated GPU.
Power Limit Insights
While the integrated graphics can technically draw up to 65 watts in extreme PL3 or PL4 scenarios, the standard PL2 setting is capped at 40 watts. This means that under typical workloads, the graphics processor will operate within this 40-watt envelope, reserving the higher 65-watt threshold for short bursts or demanding tasks.
Advancements in Xe3P Microarchitecture
The Xe3P GPU cores in Nova Lake-S represent a significant evolution over the Xe3 architecture found in the previous "Panther Lake" generation. For instance, the 12-core Xe3 iGPU in Panther Lake featured 16 MB of L2 cache, whereas the Xe3P iGPU in Nova Lake-S will offer a 20 MB L2 cache—a 25% increase. This expanded cache is expected to benefit certain workloads, although concrete performance figures are not yet available. The Xe3P microarchitecture is anticipated to introduce further enhancements, leveraging the larger L2 cache for improved efficiency and performance.
Scalability and Launch Timeline
Intel's Nova Lake platform is designed for scalability, with the ability to include either a single compute die supporting up to 28 cores or a dual compute die configuration for CPUs with up to 52 cores. The initial launch is expected to focus on the single compute die version, with dual die variants arriving later. The 28-core Nova Lake-S DS SKU is projected for release in the first quarter of 2027. Meanwhile, the overclocking-oriented "K" SKUs are reportedly scheduled for an early Q2 launch, likely between March and April. The single compute die version, featuring 16 CPU cores and 12 GPU cores, is anticipated to be among the first Nova Lake processors available to consumers.
