Ampere Altra Max M128-30 socket: LGA 4926
The Ampere Altra Max M128-30 uses the LGA 4926 socket. It is a 250 W 128-core Arm server processor at 3.0 GHz for flagship dual-socket cloud servers.
- Socket
- LGA 4926
- Launched
- 2021
- Cores and threads
- 128 and 128
- Base power
- 250 W
- Codename
- Altra Max
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Ampere Altra Max
- Clocks
- 3.0 GHz
Ampere Altra Max M128-30 specifications
| Cores | 128 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 128 (single-thread cores) |
| Core architecture | Altra Max (Arm v8.2+) |
| Clocks | 3000 MHz sustained, no turbo |
| Cache | 128 KB L1 per core, 1 MB L2 per core, 16 MB system cache |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 250 W |
| Manufacturing process | 7 nm |
| Memory support | Eight channels of DDR4-3200 ECC, up to 4 TB per socket |
| PCI Express | 128 PCIe Gen4 lanes per socket, 192 in two-socket systems |
| ECC memory | Yes |
| Package | LGA 4926 (FCLGA, 4926 lands) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Integrated graphics | None |
Motherboard compatibility
Ampere Altra Max M128-30 needs a motherboard with a LGA 4926 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the LGA 4926 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
LGA 4926 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 4,926 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 77.08 × 67.00 mm |
| Introduced | March 2020 |
| Memory | Eight channels of DDR4-3200 ECC memory through the on-chip controllers |
| Cooler mounting holes | LGA backplate and retention frame |
What the Altra Max M128-30 is
The Ampere Altra Max M128-30 is a 128-core server processor with a 3.0 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 with 128 KB of L1 per core plus a 16 MB shared system level cache on a 7 nm process. Power is rated at 250 W max with about 178 W usage power in a 4926-pin FCLGA package with order part number AC-212825002.
The densest Arm server die in the family doubles Altra core count at matching clocks, which is why the M128-30 at 3.0 GHz suits hyperscale racks. Ampere launched Altra Max in 2021 with the M128-30 as flagship. The chip supports enterprise RAS with SECDED ECC throughout and coherent two-socket links.
Flagship density with a 250 W envelope suits dual-socket cloud servers with DDR4 memory. The 2.0 GHz mesh frequency feeds the coherent fabric. That is why the M128-30 heads hyperscale deployments.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The M128-30 fits LGA 4926 flagship servers with Altra Max support. It needs a 4926-land board with Ampere firmware and a BIOS that lists the M128-30. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Flagship dual-socket servers such as GIGABYTE R282-P92 are the natural match. Boards listing the M128-30 accept one or two chips with 250 W heatsinks each.
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, 192 lanes in two-socket systems with CCIX links between sockets. Cooling uses 2U server heatsinks rated for 250 W.
Upgrade paths
On the same socket, a move to an Altra Max M96-30 such as Ampere Altra Max M96-30 trims 32 cores at 220 W when power budgets tighten. An Altra Q80-33 such as Ampere Altra Q80-33 drops to 80 cores with a larger 32 MB system cache.
Newer AmpereOne needs a new platform. The LGA 4926 page lists the Altra Max range for planning.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Altra Max M128-30 use?
LGA 4926. It is a 250 W 128-core Arm server part at 3.0 GHz.
What memory does the M128-30 use?
Eight channels of DDR4-3200 ECC, up to 4 TB per socket.
What is the upgrade path from the M128-30?
An Altra Max M96-30 trims cores at 220 W, or a Q80-33 drops to 80 cores.
Sources and verification
- Ampere Altra Max datasheet M128-30 250W (Ampere)
- Ampere Altra family usage power (Newegg)
- Dual Socket LGA 4926 server (GIGABYTE)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .