AMD Opteron X2 880 socket: Socket 940

What the Opteron X2 880 is

The AMD Opteron X2 880 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 880 topped the Egypt 800 series with registered DDR memory on a 1000 MT/s HyperTransport link at about 2649 dollars launch price. It exists because multi-socket buyers wanted the fastest Egypt dual core with the full cache.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The X2 880 fits Socket 940 multi-socket server boards with a BIOS that lists late Egypt 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 Egypt, as the 880 tops the 800 series. The AMD Opteron X2 875 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.