Ampere Altra Max M128-26 socket: LGA 4926

What the Altra Max M128-26 is

The Ampere Altra Max M128-26 is a 128-core server processor with a 2.6 GHz sustained frequency. It runs 128 single-thread Arm v8.2+ cores with no turbo, so 128 cores give 128 threads. Cache is 1 MB of L2 per core plus a 16 MB shared system cache on a 7 nm process. Power is rated at 190 W max with about 124 W usage power in a 4926-pin FCLGA package with order part number AC-212819002.

Full 128-core density at lower clocks and power gives the M128-26 the best efficiency in the Max line, which is why it suits scale-out clouds with power caps. Ampere sold the M128-26 in the Max lineup. The chip supports enterprise RAS.

Full density with a 190 W envelope suits efficient hyperscale servers with DDR4 memory. That is why the M128-26 shipped in power-capped racks.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The M128-26 fits LGA 4926 efficient servers with Altra Max support. It needs a 4926-land board with Ampere firmware and a BIOS that lists the M128-26. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.

Efficient hyperscale servers are the natural match. Boards listing the M128-26 accept the chip with a 190 W heatsink.

Memory, PCIe and cooling

Memory is eight channels of DDR4-3200 ECC through the on-chip controllers, up to 4 TB per socket. PCIe Gen4 with 128 lanes per socket feeds storage and networking. Cooling uses server heatsinks rated for 190 W.

Upgrade paths

On the same socket, a move to an Altra Max M128-30 such as Ampere Altra Max M128-30 adds 400 MHz at 250 W when frequency matters. An Altra Max M96-30 such as Ampere Altra Max M96-30 trims 32 cores at 220 W.

Newer AmpereOne needs a new platform. The LGA 4926 page lists the range.