Server CPU Architecture, Classification, and Market Landscape – 2022 Chinese Server CPU Research Framework

This article is excerpted from the "2022 Chinese Server CPU Research Framework" (page 104) and presents technical content.

Servers are high‑performance computers that provide services to client machines. For a comprehensive analysis of servers, see the referenced 182‑page PPT.

The logical architecture of a server follows the von Neumann model and mainly includes processors (CPU, GPU, DPU, etc.), memory, I/O interfaces, as well as SSDs, BMCs, PCIe slots, motherboards, power supplies, fans, and related software.

The processor is the brain of a server. According to IDC, in a typical high‑end x86 E5 server, CPU cost accounts for about 32% of a basic server and up to 50‑83% in high‑performance servers. The three core components (CPU, memory, storage) represent roughly 80% of total hardware cost.

CPU – the server’s brain

The processor is a decisive factor for overall server performance. The article discusses three influential processor types: Central Processing Unit (CPU), Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), and Deep‑Learning Processing Unit (DPU).

CPU Classification – Instruction Sets

Based on design philosophy, CPUs are divided into Complex Instruction Set Computing (CISC) and Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC).

CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) : A single instruction performs a complex function. It offers rich instruction types, fewer compiled instructions, and strong performance in general‑purpose scenarios. The x86 architecture is a typical CISC example, widely used in desktops and servers.

RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) : A single instruction performs a basic operation; multiple instructions combine to achieve complex functions. RISC designs emphasize decoding efficiency and low power consumption. The ARM architecture is a typical RISC example, originally dominant in mobile terminals.

CPU Classification – x86

The x86 instruction set, originally developed by Intel for its 16‑bit i8086 CPU, has evolved through i80386, i80486, up to the Pentium 4 series. All Intel CPUs continue to support x86 for backward compatibility, offering high performance, speed, and compatibility, and dominate the server, desktop, and mobile PC markets.

CPU Classification – ARM

CPU Classification – MIPS

CPU Industry Chain

Upstream : Includes silicon foundries, equipment, packaging & testing, and core licensing. This segment enjoys high profit margins and strong vertical integration.

Midstream : Encompasses CPU design firms, ARM licensing, and embedded processors. Global leaders are Intel (IDM model) and AMD; Chinese players include Sugon, Great Wall, and Huawei HiSilicon.

Downstream : Includes PCs, servers, consumer electronics, and IoT devices. This segment has a huge market with relatively lower monopoly.

CPU Market Size

CPU applications span desktops and servers. Desktop shipments remain around 260 million units per year, with a slight rebound after 2019. Server shipments reached 12.2 million units in 2020, a 3.9% YoY increase.

Global CPU Competition – x86

Intel and AMD dominate the x86 market. In servers, Intel holds over 96% market share, while AMD grew from 1.8% (2018) to 3.9% (2019), a 117% increase.

In laptops, AMD’s share rose from 10% (2018) to 14.6% (2019), while Intel’s share fell.

Non‑x86 – ARM Dominance

ARM commands over 43% of the mobile terminal market due to low power consumption and mature ecosystem. RISC‑V is gaining attention in IoT. Other architectures such as MIPS (≈9% in gateways/TV boxes), Power (≈1% in minicomputers), Alpha (mostly obsolete), and SPARC (discontinued) are also listed.

In mobile devices, ARM accounts for more than 90% of the market. In servers, ARM‑based solutions like Huawei’s Kunpeng and domestic MIPS‑based servers (e.g., Loongson) are emerging. In desktop PCs, ARM is gradually entering traditional x86 domains, with Apple’s Macs and Windows on ARM as examples.

Download Link : 2022 Chinese Server CPU Research Framework

Source: Global Enterprise Solutions

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