Benchmark Up To 8,192 Cores On Linux With Enhanced Turbostat Monitoring Tool

In response to a request from Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), the Linux-focused monitoring tool Turbostat has significantly enhanced its capabilities, now allowing for the observation of CPU configurations with up to 8, 192 cores. This update marks a considerable progression in the tool’s functionality, especially as it adapts to the growing demands of modern computing systems.

Major Update for Turbostat: Increased Core Limit Following Testing on 1, 152-Core System

The open-source Linux platform is renowned for its versatility, and the recent developments in Turbostat exemplify this characteristic. As reported by Phoronix, the latest version released during the Linux 6.15 cycle empowers users to monitor an impressive number of CPU cores—effectively addressing the needs highlighted by HPE’s testing of a system housing 1, 152 cores. Previously limited to 1, 024 cores, this upgrade raises the cap nearly eightfold, making Turbostat notably resilient against future computing advancements.

Turbostat Update — Image Credits: Lore. Kernel

For those unfamiliar with Turbostat, it functions as a command-line utility that provides detailed information on various CPU metrics, including frequency, idle statistics, temperatures, and power consumption. While it primarily serves professional users within enterprise environments, average users can also explore its capabilities by downloading the relevant package. Notably, the 8, 192 core threshold is not unprecedented within the Linux kernel, as existing maximum core limits across other kernel components are already aligned with this figure.

The inquiry now shifts to the specific architecture used by the HPE engineer during their testing. Speculation suggests that the system might employ Intel’s flagship 288-core Xeon 6900E processor in a 4P (four-socket) configuration. There is also the possibility that HPE is exploring newer architectures like Intel’s Diamond Rapids. However, until more information is provided, these remain conjectures.

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