AMD Opteron X2 280 socket: Socket 940
The AMD Opteron X2 280 uses the Socket 940 socket. It is a 95 W dual-core Italy server part at 2.4 GHz with 1 MB of L2 per core for dual-processor racks.
- Socket
- Socket 940
- Launched
- September 2005
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 95 W
- Codename
- Italy
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- AMD Opteron
- Clocks
- 2.4 GHz
AMD Opteron X2 280 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Italy cores on 90 nm |
| Clocks | 2.4 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2 MB L2 (2x1 MB) |
| Default TDP | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 90 nm |
| Memory support | Registered DDR, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket 940 (940-pin OPGA) |
Motherboard compatibility
AMD Opteron X2 280 needs a motherboard with a Socket 940 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the Socket 940 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
Socket 940 at a glance
| Type | PGA, 940 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 40 × 40 mm |
| Introduced | 2003 |
| Memory | Registered DDR, through the on-chip controller |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (server heatsink) |
What the Opteron X2 280 is
The AMD Opteron X2 280 is a 2.4 GHz dual-core server processor from September 2005. It runs two K8 cores at 2.4 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 1 MB of L2 per core on a 90 nm process. Power is rated at 95 W on Socket 940.
The 280 served performance Italy servers with registered DDR memory on a 1000 MT/s HyperTransport link at about 1299 dollars launch price. It exists because dual-processor buyers wanted 2.4 GHz dual core throughput with the full cache.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The X2 280 fits Socket 940 dual-processor server boards with a BIOS that lists late Italy parts. It suits performance racks qualified for 95 W parts with registered DDR slots. Check the server maker CPU list for the exact board and stepping. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is registered DDR in two channels through the on-chip controller.
HyperTransport at 1000 MT/s links the CPU to the chipset and other sockets. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling uses vendor qualified server heatsinks for the 95 W envelope with directed airflow.
Upgrade paths
On Socket 940 the upgrade stays within Italy, as the 280 tops the standard 200 series. The AMD Opteron X2 275 at 2.2 GHz drops clocks with the same 2 MB cache. Beyond Socket 940 a move to Socket F needs new boards and DDR2 memory.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Opteron X2 280 use?
Socket 940, in dual-processor server boards with late Italy support.
How many cores does the Opteron X2 280 have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2.4 GHz with 1 MB of L2 per core.
What memory works with the Opteron X2 280?
Registered DDR in two channels through the on-chip controller.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .