AMD’s next-generation Ryzen Threadripper 9000 series, codenamed “Shimada Peak,” has surfaced in shipping manifests, revealing a diverse lineup of high-end desktop (HEDT) and workstation CPUs. Notably, the series includes a 12-core variant, the Threadripper 9945WX, alongside other models such as the 64-core 9985WX and the 16-core 9955WX. These developments suggest that AMD is in the final stages of preparing these processors for validation and testing, though an official launch date remains unannounced.
The Threadripper 9000 series is built on AMD’s latest Zen 5 architecture, promising significant performance improvements over previous generations. The flagship 96-core model, expected to be the 9995WX, has yet to appear in shipping data. Each compute chiplet die (CCD) in this series maintains the Zen 4 structure, featuring eight cores and 32MB of L3 cache, allowing the top-end model to potentially offer up to 96 cores and 384MB of L3 cache.
The inclusion of lower-core-count models like the 12-core 9945WX indicates AMD’s strategy to cater to professionals who require extensive PCIe lanes and memory capacity without the need for maximum CPU throughput. These models are likely to appeal to users in fields such as content creation and data analysis, where high-speed connectivity and memory bandwidth are crucial.
Compatibility-wise, the new CPUs are expected to utilize the sTR5 socket, ensuring they can be integrated into existing TRX50 and WRX90 motherboards with appropriate firmware updates. This continuity allows for easier upgrades and system integrations for users already invested in AMD’s HEDT ecosystem.
While AMD has not officially confirmed the release timeline for the Threadripper 9000 series, industry speculation points to potential announcements at upcoming events such as Computex or CES 2025. These processors are anticipated to offer a balance of high core counts and advanced features, reinforcing AMD’s commitment to the HEDT and workstation markets.
In summary, the Threadripper 9000 “Shimada Peak” series is shaping up to be a versatile and powerful lineup, catering to a broad spectrum of professional computing needs. With configurations ranging from 12 to 96 cores, AMD aims to provide scalable solutions for various workloads, maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructure and delivering enhanced performance through its Zen 5 architecture.
