AMD Athlon 64 X2 4600+ socket: Socket AM2
The AMD Athlon 64 X2 4600+ uses the Socket AM2 socket. It is a 65 W dual-core Brisbane mainstream part at 2.4 GHz with 2x512 KB of L2 cache for budget desktops.
- Socket
- Socket AM2
- Launched
- April 2008
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 65 W
- Codename
- Brisbane
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Athlon 64 X2
- Clocks
- 2.4 GHz
AMD Athlon 64 X2 4600+ specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Brisbane cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.4 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2x512 KB L2 |
| Default TDP | 65 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-667 and DDR2-800, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket AM2 (940 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Athlon 64 X2 4600+ needs a motherboard with a Socket AM2 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 700 series | 770, 780G | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for Socket AM2.
Socket AM2 at a glance
| Type | PGA, 940 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | May 2006 |
| Memory | DDR2-667 and DDR2-800, two channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Athlon 64 X2 4600+ is
The AMD Athlon 64 X2 4600+ is a mainstream 2.4 GHz Brisbane dual core from April 2008. It runs two K8 cores at 2.4 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 512 KB of L2 per core on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 65 W on Socket AM2.
It exists because AMD carried the popular 4600+ rating from 90 nm Windsor to the cooler 65 nm Brisbane die, giving budget buyers full-cache dual-core speed at mainstream power.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 4600+ drops into Socket AM2 boards with DDR2 memory and needs no special chipset or BIOS beyond standard Brisbane support. It pairs with 700 series DDR2 boards contemporary with Brisbane parts. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2-667 and DDR2-800 in two channels.
HyperTransport at 1000 MHz links the CPU to the chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is any 65 W rated heatsink on the 48 x 96 mm mount, with Cool'n'Quiet trimming clocks and voltage at idle.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2 the upgrade is the AMD Athlon 64 X2 5400+ at 2.8 GHz for a straight clock lift, or the AMD Athlon X2 4850e at 45 W for quieter running. Beyond AM2 a move to AM2+ or AM3 needs a new board for Phenom class parts.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Athlon 64 X2 4600+ use?
Socket AM2, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards.
How many cores does the Athlon 64 X2 4600+ have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2.4 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core.
What memory works with the Athlon 64 X2 4600+?
DDR2-667 and DDR2-800 in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .