AMD Ryzen 7 7700X Sample Pictured in the Flesh

Someone with access to an AMD Ryzen 7 7700X “Zen 4” processor posted one of the first pictures of an AMD Ryzen 7 7700X “Zen 4” desktop processor installed on a motherboard. The picture shows the 7700X seated in the Socket AM5. The retention brace of the socket only clutches against two side protrusions of the IHS. AMD explained in its recent interview with us that the odd shape of the IHS is to accommodate the various electrical SMDs outside the IHS for better thermal management. With the processor installed, we can see that they’re exposed and not covered up by the retention brace. The IHS is taller than the brace, so there will be some passive ventilation for the SMDs. Installing a Ryzen 7000 processor on Socket AM5 involves familiar steps to installing Intel mainstream-desktop processors for the past 15 years. This particular processor has the “D” marking on the IHS, which denotes a non-retail sample (possibly a review sample).