Ampere Altra Q32-17 socket: LGA 4926

What the Altra Q32-17 is

The Ampere Altra Q32-17 is a 32-core server processor with a 1.5 GHz base and up to 1.7 GHz frequency. It runs 32 single-thread Arm v8.2+ cores, so 32 cores give 32 threads. Cache is 1 MB of L2 per core plus system cache on a 7 nm process. Power is rated at 65 W max with about 40 W usage power in a 4926-pin FCLGA package with order part number AC-103206502.

The smallest Altra die configuration opens the lineup at low power, which is why the Q32-17 suits entry cloud nodes and development systems. Ampere sold the Q32-17 in the launch lineup. The chip supports enterprise RAS.

Entry core count with a 65 W envelope suits small cloud servers with DDR4 memory. That is why the Q32-17 shipped in entry nodes and labs.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The Q32-17 fits LGA 4926 entry servers with Altra support. It needs a 4926-land board with Ampere firmware and a BIOS that lists the Q32-17. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.

Entry cloud servers and labs are the natural match. Boards listing the Q32-17 accept the chip with a 65 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 compact heatsinks rated for 65 W.

Upgrade paths

On the same socket, a move to an Altra Q64-22 such as Ampere Altra Q64-22 doubles cores to 64 at 95 W when density matters. No smaller Altra SKU exists.

A move to Altra Max adds cores per socket. The LGA 4926 page lists the range.