Since NVIDIA introduced the Kepler architecture for the 28-nm manufacturing process in early 2012, it remained dominant until Maxwell took over in September 2014. As a groundbreaking design, Kepler marked the first time that high-performance desktop GPUs became energy-efficient. It had a lifespan of nearly three years and significantly changed the perception of high heat output from previous 40nm GPUs. Players could now enjoy powerful performance without excessive power consumption, which was a major milestone for NVIDIA.
Kepler's success wasn't just about performance—it was also about innovation. The architecture introduced a new level of efficiency, making it possible to deliver top-tier gaming experiences while keeping power usage in check. This shift not only improved user experience but also demonstrated NVIDIA’s progress in GPU design and optimization.
When it comes to the chips that powered Kepler, several key models stand out: GK104, GK106, GK107, and GK110. These chips were used across a wide range of products, from low-end to high-end GPUs. GK107 supported mobile and entry-level desktops, while GK106 focused on lower-end systems. GK104 was reserved for high-end and mid-range cards, and GK110 handled flagship models. Each chip played a crucial role in shaping the market and offering different levels of performance and value.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Kepler era was how NVIDIA managed its product lineup through chip specification cuts. This practice, often referred to as "deletion," allowed the company to create multiple products from a single chip by reducing certain features. The goal was to expand the product range, manage pricing, and meet diverse consumer needs. It wasn’t just about saving costs—it was about creating a balanced ecosystem where each product had a clear position in the market.
There are two main types of chip deletions: front-end and back-end. Front-end cuts typically involve reducing the number of stream processors or texture units, which directly impacts performance. Back-end cuts affect memory bandwidth and ROPs (raster operations), influencing anti-aliasing and high-resolution performance. By carefully choosing which parts to cut, NVIDIA could maintain performance while lowering prices, ensuring that each product offered a unique value proposition.
A classic example of this strategy is the GeForce GTX 660 Ti. Compared to the GTX 670, it had reduced memory bandwidth (from 256-bit to 192-bit) and fewer ROPs (from 32 to 24). While it had the same number of stream processors and texture units, its performance lagged behind in high-resolution games due to these limitations. This shows how even small changes can have a big impact on real-world performance.
The success of the Kepler architecture and its chip family laid the foundation for future advancements. Even as newer architectures like Maxwell and Pascal came along, the lessons learned from Kepler continued to influence NVIDIA’s approach to GPU design and market segmentation. Whether through innovation or strategic deletion, the Kepler era remains a pivotal chapter in the evolution of graphics technology.
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