# Zen 2

> AMD's processor architecture

**Wikidata**: [Q25021818](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q25021818)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zen_2)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/zen-2

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Zen 2**:

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## Summary  
Zen 2 is AMD's third-generation processor microarchitecture, succeeding Zen+ and preceding Zen 3. It is notable for its 7 nm fabrication process and is used in AMD's Ryzen CPUs as well as the PlayStation 5 APU. Zen 2 improved performance and efficiency over its predecessors while maintaining compatibility with existing platforms.

## Key Facts  
- **Developer**: AMD  
- **Instance of**: Microarchitecture, Zen series  
- **Subclass of**: Central processing unit  
- **Fabrication method**: 7 nm lithography process  
- **Preceded by**: Zen+  
- **Succeeded by**: Zen 3 (launched November 5, 2020)  
- **Used in**: PlayStation 5 APU  
- **Aliases**: AMD Zen 2, Zen 2 (Mikroarchitektur)  
- **Image**: [Zen 2 Core Die Shot](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Zen2_Matisse_Ryzen_7nm_Core_Die_shot.jpg)  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is Zen 2 used in?  
A: Zen 2 is used in AMD's Ryzen processors and powers the PlayStation 5 APU, providing the computing backbone for Sony's next-gen console.  

### Q: How does Zen 2 compare to Zen 3?  
A: Zen 3 succeeded Zen 2 in 2020, offering improved IPC (instructions per cycle) and efficiency, but Zen 2 remains competitive due to its 7 nm process and architectural refinements.  

### Q: What manufacturing process does Zen 2 use?  
A: Zen 2 is fabricated using a 7 nm lithography process, which allowed AMD to achieve higher transistor density and better power efficiency compared to older architectures.  

## Why It Matters  
Zen 2 marked a significant leap in AMD's processor technology, introducing a 7 nm fabrication process that improved performance and energy efficiency. It played a crucial role in AMD's resurgence in the CPU market, competing strongly against Intel's offerings. Additionally, Zen 2's adoption in the PlayStation 5 APU demonstrated its versatility beyond traditional desktop and server CPUs, reinforcing AMD's position in both consumer and gaming hardware markets.  

## Notable For  
- **First AMD architecture to use a 7 nm process**, enabling higher efficiency and performance.  
- **Powers the PlayStation 5 APU**, showcasing its adaptability beyond traditional CPUs.  
- **Introduced chiplet design**, separating core complexes (CCXs) for better scalability and yield optimization.  

## Body  
### Development and Release  
- Developed by AMD as part of its Zen series.  
- Succeeded Zen+ and was followed by Zen 3 in November 2020.  

### Technical Specifications  
- Fabricated using **7 nm lithography**, a major step forward from previous 12/14 nm nodes.  
- Utilizes a **chiplet design**, separating core dies (CCDs) from I/O dies for improved manufacturing efficiency.  

### Applications  
- Used in **AMD Ryzen 3000 series** desktop CPUs.  
- Integrated into the **PlayStation 5 APU**, combining Zen 2 CPU cores with RDNA 2 GPU architecture.  

### Performance Improvements  
- Delivered **~15% IPC uplift** over Zen+.  
- Supported **higher core counts** while maintaining power efficiency.  

### Legacy  
- Cemented AMD's competitiveness in both consumer and enterprise markets.  
- Paved the way for Zen 3's further refinements in performance and efficiency.  

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