Quote Originally Posted by BeepBeep2 View Post
Please remember that dies are not just made of one layer. There are several layers in these pics that have either been purposely eroded or are under the visible one...
There are 11 layers. I am fully aware of that.
I'm also aware of the fact the AMD uses the same design for different markets. They might be tuned and have different features active/disabled, but it is the same design, same layout,etc.
It is simply a matter of resources and payback. Having different designs for different markets isn't always worthwhile.

Intel does the same with desktops and 2S Xeons. There is no difference between a I7 980 and a Xeon 5680.
But Xeon MP has its own design with a different die. That's why it took 1 year longer to get it to market. You need to wait for the uarch to be done for the generic parts, than you take it in implement it for the specific part. Not only that, but you validate much more thoroughly and that takes extra time again.

Also, if you want a hint, look at the die outline. They aren't the same.
I have quite good eyesight and I say you look again. They are identical, bar for the the differences in colours and blurring.