Intel® Speed Select Technology - Performance Profile (Intel® SST-PP) is a feature available on selected Intel® Xeon® Scalable processors. This technology provides multiple processor configurations within a single CPU, allowing users to select between different performance profiles based on workload requirements.
Key Features of Intel® SST-PP:
Multiple Performance Profiles: Intel® SST-PP offers up to three distinct performance profiles within the same CPU. Each profile may vary in core counts, TDP, base frequency, turbo frequency, and other characteristics.
- Config-TDP Interface: Utilizes the Config-TDP interface to enumerate and control profiles, extending configurable TDP and flex ratio architecture.
- Dynamic Configuration: Allows dynamic switching between profiles based on workload requirements.
- Flexibility: Enables higher base frequency at reduced core counts, which can be beneficial for various compute needs and workload scenarios.
Benefits:
- Improved Server Utilization: Facilitates the optimization of servers to handle multiple workloads, reducing the need for multiple types of CPUs/servers.
- Reduced TCO: By repurposing servers to meet different SLAs and consolidating CPU SKUs.
- Quick Adaptation: Enables quick adaptation to changing workload requirements, helping reduce time to market (TTM) and improving overall top and bottom line for businesses.
Enabling Intel® SST-PP on Intel® Xeon® Processors:
To enable Intel® SST-PP, follow these steps, typically performed via BIOS setup:
BIOS Discovery and Configuration:
- Reboot the system and enter the BIOS setup menu.
- Navigate to the following path: Advanced → Power & Performance → CPU P State Control → Intel Speed Select.
- Select the desired Intel® SST-PP configuration (Base, Config 1, Config 2).
BIOS Menu Options:
- Example of BIOS setup menu options:
- Advanced → Power & Performance → CPU P State Control → Intel Speed Select → Config 1
- Advanced → Power & Performance → CPU P State Control → Intel Speed Select → Config 2
Verification:
- After enabling the desired configuration, verify the settings via the OS:
- Run the command:
cat /sys/devices/system/cpu/present - Ensure the output matches the expected core count for the selected configuration.
Configuration Levels:
Intel® SST-PP configurations are referenced by configuration levels:
- Config-TDP Level 0: Base configuration.
- Config-TDP Level 3 and Level 4: Additional levels that provide higher base frequencies by reducing core counts.
Example of Usage Model:
- CSPs: For IT infrastructure consolidation, Intel® SST-PP allows CSPs to run a CPU with higher base frequency with fewer active cores, optimizing for different compute needs.
- Media Studios: Utilize servers for VDI during the day and rendering at night, adjusting CPU configurations as needed.