AMD Athlon X2 5050e socket: Socket AM2
The AMD Athlon X2 5050e uses the Socket AM2 socket. It is a 45 W dual-core Brisbane efficient part at 2.6 GHz with 2x512 KB of L2 cache, the fastest 45 W Brisbane.
- Socket
- Socket AM2
- Launched
- October 2008
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 45 W
- Codename
- Brisbane
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Athlon X2
- Clocks
- 2.6 GHz
AMD Athlon X2 5050e specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Brisbane cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.6 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2x512 KB L2 |
| Default TDP | 45 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 X2 5050e 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 X2 5050e is
The AMD Athlon X2 5050e is the fastest energy-efficient Brisbane dual core, a 2.6 GHz part from October 2008. It runs two K8 cores at 2.6 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 45 W on Socket AM2.
It exists because AMD stretched its efficient Brisbane line to near-mainstream clocks late in 2008, giving system builders low-power speed just as K10 parts were taking over. The e suffix denotes a binned low-voltage part.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 5050e drops into Socket AM2 boards with DDR2 memory and needs no special chipset or BIOS beyond standard Brisbane support, though late-2008 boards may want a BIOS refresh for the newest stepping. It pairs with 700 series DDR2 boards. 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 a compact 45 W heatsink on the 48 x 96 mm mount, with Cool'n'Quiet trimming clocks and voltage at idle.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2 the 5050e is the efficient ceiling, so the upgrade is a standard-power Brisbane such as the AMD Athlon 64 X2 5600+ at 2.9 GHz, or the AMD Athlon X2 4850e at 2.5 GHz for a cheaper efficient part. Beyond AM2 a move to AM2+ or AM3 needs a new board for Phenom class parts.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Athlon X2 5050e use?
Socket AM2, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards.
How many cores does the Athlon X2 5050e have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2.6 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core.
What memory works with the Athlon X2 5050e?
DDR2-667 and DDR2-800 in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .