Write a Triton Dequant Kernel (int4 / int8 → fp16 / bf16)

Implements Triton dequantization of int4/int8 weights to fp16/bf16 with AWQ/GPTQ/NF4 support.

54|7|Updated Apr 10, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/tensormux/kernel-skills --skill write-a-triton-dequant-kernel-int4-int8-fp16-bf16
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Write a Triton Dequant Kernel (int4 / int8 → fp16 / bf16)
Source: https://github.com/tensormux/kernel-skills/tree/main/skills/inference/write-triton-dequant-kernel
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/tensormux/kernel-skills --skill write-a-triton-dequant-kernel-int4-int8-fp16-bf16

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This kernel provides a structured guide to implement a Triton dequantization routine that unpacks and converts quantized int4/int8 weights into fp16 or bf16 tensors for downstream operations, enabling debugging baselines and hot-swaps of quantized weights without relying on fused GEMMs.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Bit-unpacking and codebook support for multiple packing schemes (AWQ, GPTQ, NF4) with per-group scales and zeros.
  • Safe arithmetic and validation using fp32 intermediates to prevent overflow and enable round-trip checks against reference Python dequant implementations.
  • Use Case: debug a quantized model by exporting dequantized weights for inspection or compare against a fused dequant-GEMM path.

Quick Start

Provide an input weight tile and run the launcher to verify correct dequantization against a reference.

Frequently Asked Questions about Write a Triton Dequant Kernel (int4 / int8 → fp16 / bf16)

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I dequantize int4 and int8 weights to fp16 in Triton?

To dequantize int4 and int8 weights to fp16 in Triton, implement a custom kernel that unpacks bits and applies per-group scales using fp32 intermediate arithmetic to prevent overflow.

Does this Triton dequantization approach support both AWQ and GPTQ packing schemes?

Yes, the Triton dequantization approach supports both AWQ and GPTQ packing, handling their specific bit unpacking orders and per-group scale indexing.

Can I use a Triton kernel to unpack NF4 codebooks for weight quantization?

Yes, you can use a Triton kernel to unpack NF4 codebooks for weight quantization, applying optional codebook handling alongside standard int4 logic.

Why does my int4 weight dequantization overflow in Triton?

Int4 weight dequantization overflows in Triton when intermediate arithmetic uses lower precision, requiring fp32 intermediates to safely handle per-group scales and prevent overflow.

What is the best way to debug a quantized model without using a fused dequant GEMM?

The best way to debug a quantized model without a fused dequant GEMM is to export dequantized weights using a standalone Triton kernel for inspection and round-trip validation.