AMD Athlon X2 BE-2300 socket: Socket AM2
The AMD Athlon X2 BE-2300 uses the Socket AM2 socket. It is a 45 W dual-core Brisbane efficient part at 1.9 GHz with 2x512 KB of L2 cache for quiet desktops.
- Socket
- Socket AM2
- Launched
- October 2007
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 45 W
- Codename
- Brisbane
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Athlon X2
- Clocks
- 1.9 GHz
AMD Athlon X2 BE-2300 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Brisbane cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 1.9 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2x512 KB L2 |
| Default TDP | 45 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-667 and DDR2-800, two channels |
| HyperTransport | 1000 MHz |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket AM2 (940 pins) |
| Core voltage | 1.25 V |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Athlon X2 BE-2300 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 BE-2300 is
The AMD Athlon X2 BE-2300 is an energy-efficient 1.9 GHz dual core from October 2007. It runs two K8 cores at 1.9 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.
The BE-2300 opened the Brisbane BE efficient line in G1 and G2 steppings at 1.15 to 1.25 V with a 9.5x multiplier on a 1000 MHz HyperTransport link. It exists because AMD wanted efficient dual cores for quiet office PCs at mainstream prices.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The BE-2300 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 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 upgrade is the AMD Athlon X2 BE-2350 at 2.1 GHz or the AMD Athlon X2 BE-2400 at 2.3 GHz at the same 45 W. The AMD Athlon X2 4050e at 2.1 GHz is the newer e-series equivalent. 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 BE-2300 use?
Socket AM2, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards.
How many cores does the Athlon X2 BE-2300 have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 1.9 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core.
What memory works with the Athlon X2 BE-2300?
DDR2-667 and DDR2-800 in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .