Broadcom introduces StrataXGS Tomahawk 5 chip for data centers

Broadcom introduces StrataXGS Tomahawk 5 chip for data centers

Broadcom introduced the StrataXGS Tomahawk 5 processor. The chip is suitable for data center switches and should increase processing speeds.

According to Broadcom, the StrataXGS Tomahawk 5 is particularly useful in Ethernet-based data center switches. The manufacturer notes that Ethernet offers energy efficiency, the highest bandwidth and the highest SerDes speeds, combined with a doubling of bandwidth every 18 to 24 months. This makes the technology well suited for AI, ML and cloud infrastructure solutions.

The StrataXGS Tomahawk 5 is a 5nm processor. The chip allows an Ethernet switch to handle 51.2Tbps of network traffic, twice as much as the previous StrataXGS Tomahawk. A single StrataXGS Tomahawk 5 can support hundreds of network connections.

Additional functionality

Broadcom’s processor features functionality for virtualizing AI and ML workloads, including single-pass VxLAN routing and bridging. Cognitive Routing technology allows the processor to automatically route data traffic through the least congested network links. This can prevent traffic performance issues.

Furthermore, Broadcom equipped the StrataXGS Tomahawk 5 with new load-balancing functionality. The technology allows the processor to detect network connection issues and distribute traffic accordingly. This should prevent outages and other technical problems.

Finally, the processor makes it easier to collect data on network traffic and solve bottlenecks. Six built-in Arm processors support the functionality. Qualcomm also equipped the model with an integrated set of optical components. The components allow the processor to be integrated into optical networks.

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