According to Hexus the first pre-built 7th Generation AMD A-Series desktop PC systems had started to ship and now somone has got a nice snap of what many would think is hardware porn.

The socket has a PGA (Pin Grid Array) design and is clearly labelled 'Socket AM4' so there is no confusion. It has 1331 pins which is a big boost on the 942 pins supported by AMD's AM3+ socket.

The AMD Socket AM4 is supposed to support the 7th Generation AMD A-Series ('Bristol Ridge') desktop PC systems which is currently shipping. It will also be behind the “waiting for Godot” Zen-Series ('Summit Ridge') processors when they show up. The increased number of pin connections will run the platform's new dual channel DDR4 (up-to 3200MHz) memory configuration, support for up to 24 PCIe lanes, and the integrated Northbridge in upcoming processors.

The new AM4 socket is the same 40mm as previous AMD sockets - it is unclear though what is happening to the CPU cooler compatibility. Some manufacturers, such as Noctua, have previously shown off a 'mounting upgrade kit' to make its coolers AM4 compatible.

Retail availability of AM4 motherboards is expected sometime next month. AMD Zen-based 'Summit Ridge' processors are expected in February.