e5 2690 v4 double precision

2025

3 min read 28-03-2025

The Intel Xeon E5-2690 v4 is a server-grade processor that, while not the newest on the market, still holds its own, particularly for specific tasks. Understanding its double-precision performance is crucial for anyone considering it for computationally intensive applications. This article will delve into its capabilities, limitations, and ideal use cases.

Understanding Double Precision in the E5-2690 v4

Double-precision floating-point arithmetic (FP64) is essential for scientific computing, high-performance computing (HPC), and other applications requiring high accuracy. The E5-2690 v4 boasts a respectable double-precision performance, although it's important to contextualize it within its generation and against modern processors.

Key Specifications & Performance Metrics

Cores: 14 cores
Threads: 28 threads
Clock Speed: Base clock of 2.6 GHz, Turbo Boost up to 3.5 GHz
Cache: 45 MB Intel Smart Cache
Double-Precision Performance: The exact performance in GFLOPS (billions of floating-point operations per second) will vary based on the specific workload, but expect it to be considerably lower than more recent processors. You can find benchmark results online for various applications.

The E5-2690 v4's double-precision performance is largely determined by its clock speed, core count, and cache size. While its multi-core architecture allows for parallel processing, boosting overall throughput, the relatively lower clock speed compared to newer CPUs will impact peak performance on certain tasks.

Benchmarks and Real-World Performance

While precise numbers depend on the benchmark used and the specific configuration, you can find many online resources providing benchmark data comparing the E5-2690 v4 against other processors in double-precision performance. Look for benchmarks on sites specializing in server hardware reviews to find relevant data. Keep in mind that these are often synthetic benchmarks and may not perfectly reflect real-world performance.

Real-world performance varies dramatically depending on the application. For instance, in tasks heavily reliant on memory bandwidth, the E5-2690 v4 might show its age. However, for tasks that can effectively utilize its many cores, it can still provide solid results.

Ideal Use Cases for E5-2690 v4 Double Precision

While not ideal for the most cutting-edge HPC applications, the E5-2690 v4 remains a viable option for several use cases:

Legacy Applications: If you are running older scientific codes or simulations that are not optimized for newer architectures, the E5-2690 v4 can be a cost-effective solution.
Budget-Conscious HPC: For users on a tighter budget, the E5-2690 v4 can offer a balance between performance and cost, especially when considering the cost of newer processors and their supporting infrastructure.
Specific Workloads: Certain applications might not demand the absolute peak performance of the latest processors. If your workload can efficiently utilize its multi-core architecture and doesn't heavily depend on extremely high clock speeds or advanced instruction sets, the E5-2690 v4 can be sufficient.
Virtualization: Its relatively large core count makes it suitable for running multiple virtual machines, each handling a portion of a computationally-intensive task.

Limitations and Considerations

It's important to acknowledge the limitations:

Older Architecture: Compared to modern CPUs, the E5-2690 v4 lacks the latest instruction set extensions and architectural improvements that significantly enhance performance.
Power Consumption: While not excessively high, its power consumption might be greater than more energy-efficient modern processors.
Availability: Finding new E5-2690 v4 processors might be challenging, with many now appearing on the used market. This can influence both price and reliability.

Conclusion: Assessing the E5-2690 v4 for Your Needs

The Intel Xeon E5-2690 v4 offers respectable double-precision performance, especially when considering its age and price point. While it won't compete with the latest high-end CPUs, it remains a viable option for specific workloads and budget-conscious users. Thoroughly assess your application's requirements and benchmark results before making a purchasing decision. Remember to weigh its strengths against its limitations and consider the availability and overall cost of ownership. If your application is highly demanding, explore newer generation processors for optimal performance.