We have already heard that video on the GPU using the second generation architecture NVIDIA Maxwell - involved with 20-nm process technology - they will appear at the end of this year or the start of next year. It is reported that the processors NVIDIA GM204 and GM206, originally designed for the production using 20-nanometer production rates will be based on 28-nm process. And it will not happen before the end of 2014. In other words, NVIDIA engineers had almost the last moment before sending the project into production to alter the project under the old rules.
More precise, digital design GM204 and GM206, on which will be created photomasks with a subsequent production, NVIDIA will give TSMC before the end of this month. To see the finished chips in mass and form usually takes six to nine months. GM204 graphics processors and on their basis the company expects to receive at the end of the year - it will be productive solutions cost from $ 250 to $ 500. Adapters GPU GM206 as the base for mass solutions with an average cost promise to appear in January. Both GPU, we emphasize once again, will be based on 28-nm process. Based on 20 nm process will be released GPU GM200, which is expected in the middle of next year. This processor will be a replacement for GK110. Digital project to organize registration GM200 should recover TSMC company in June 2014.
In 2012, the director of NVIDIA's developer conference publicly accused TSMC company of failing to release ordered 28-nm GPU on time and with proper quality.
On the latter also suggests that TSMC company should already produce 20-nm processors for new smartphones and tablets Apple (SoC A8). Recent leaks also indicate possible delays in the appearance of 20-nm GPU AMD Radeon to early autumn, and even later.
Finally, there is issue with price . NVIDIA could decide to not invest in expensive new process . Processors will come at cost significantly more expensive, while the gain in consumption and performance can be quite modest. Staying on 28-nm process technology, the products will be cheaper, and the speed can be increased due to changes in the architecture. If NVIDIA is really experiencing a strained relationship with TSMC as a contract manufacturer of semiconductors, it may eventually replace the manufacturer, and 20-nm process risks becoming the last straw, which breached its patience.