Intel's next-generation CPU platform is ready for next-generation I/O standards, and Arrow Lake desktops will feature Thunderbolt 5 "Barlow Ridge." A few days ago we saw the latest slides for Intel's ArrowLake-S desktop CPU platform, and now YuuKi_AnS has shared more information, but this time the focus is on a single aspect, I/O support.
Intel ArrowLake-S desktop CPUs will finally offer PCIeGen5 hardware support without the need to split lanes between dGPUs and M.2 devices. In addition to this, the CPU will carry 20 PCIeGen5 lanes (dGPUx16, M.2x4). In addition to the Gen5 lanes, there are also some PCIe Gen4 lanes, with x8 for the DMI connected to MTP-SPCH, x4 for additional M.2 and x4 for the next generation BarlowRidge "Thunderbolt5" controller.
Intel BarlowRidge is the codename for the next generation of Thunderbolt 5 controllers that will be available on some platforms. The controller will provide two Type-C ports, capable of providing 80GB/s bidirectional bandwidth and up to 120Gbps video signal bandwidth. We’ve covered this new technology in detail here , and here are some of its key features:
Twice the total bidirectional bandwidth; BandwidthBoost delivers triple the throughput up to 120Gbps for video-intensive use.
PCIExpress doubles data throughput for faster storage and external graphics processing.
Built on industry standards, including USB4V2, DisplayPort2.1 and PCIExpressGen4; fully compatible with previous versions.
Twice the bandwidth of Thunderbolt networks for high-speed PC-to-PC connections.
Featuring new signaling technology PAM-3, a significant performance improvement is achieved with today's printed circuit boards, connectors and passive cables up to 1 meter long.
The new Thunderbolt interface will provide 3 DP2.1DDI, 2 Thunderbolt5 (80G/120G) Type-C ports, and 2 Thunderbolt4 ports from the independent GPU, with a rated power of 3.25-4W. Intel will also feature HaydenBridge (Thunderbolt 4) retimers on Arrow Lake-SCPUSOC, as not all platforms will support fifth generation at launch. It is reported that the standardization of BarlowBridge in desktop platforms may begin in 2025-2026.