AMD Phenom II X2 555 BE socket: Socket AM3
The AMD Phenom II X2 555 BE uses the Socket AM3 socket. It is an 80 W dual core Callisto Black Edition part at 3.2 GHz with an unlocked multiplier.
- Socket
- Socket AM3
- Launched
- January 2010
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 80 W
- Codename
- Callisto
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Phenom II X2
- Clocks
- 3.2 GHz
AMD Phenom II X2 555 BE specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Callisto cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 3.2 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 6 MB L3, 1 MB L2 (2 × 512 KB) |
| Default TDP | 80 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1333, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | Socket AM3 (µPGA, 938 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Phenom II X2 555 BE needs a motherboard with a Socket AM3 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 7 and 8 series | 7-Series, 8-Series | 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 AM3.
Socket AM3 at a glance
| Type | PGA, 941 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 40 × 40 mm |
| Introduced | February 2009 |
| Memory | DDR2 up to PC2-8500 and DDR3 up to PC3-10600 |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Phenom II X2 555 BE is
AMD Phenom II X2 555 BE is a dual core Callisto Black Edition processor that AMD released in January 2010 for tuned home towers. It runs at a fixed 3.2 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 2 by 512 KB of L2 with 6 MB of shared L3. Power is 80 W on a 45 nm process.
The BE suffix marks an unlocked multiplier for boards that allow tuning. Owners raise clocks where cooling permits. At stock it matches the business B57 on speed while adding tuning headroom.
There is no integrated graphics on this die. AM3 boards with 7 and 8 series chipsets provide board video where fitted. Memory is DDR3 in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Phenom II X2 555 BE fits Socket AM3 with 938 pins in µPGA form. Multiplier tuning needs a board that allows changes, commonly 790X, 790FX, 870 and 880G designs. The BIOS must list the exact 555 BE string.
A board that omits the string may refuse to boot even when the chipset matches. Update the BIOS before fitting the chip on early boards.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1333, two channels. A matched pair helps the shared L3 block. ECC is not supported.
HyperTransport links the CPU to the chipset at 2 GHz. PCIe slots hang off the board chipset rather than the processor.
Cooling needs headroom above the stock 80 W unit when tuning. The 48 by 96 mm pattern accepts many tower coolers.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM3 the 555 BE can move to the 560 BE or 565 BE for higher clocks on the same board. Memory and storage carry over. A locked dual reference on the same socket is the Phenom II X2 B57 class.
A platform move to DDR4 needs a new board and RAM. Keep the 555 BE tower for tuned home duty.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the AMD Phenom II X2 555 BE use?
It uses Socket AM3 in µPGA form.
Is the Phenom II X2 555 BE unlocked?
Yes. The BE suffix marks an unlocked multiplier.
What memory does the Phenom II X2 555 BE use?
DDR3-1333 in two channels.
How is the Phenom II X2 555 different from the 560?
The 555 BE runs at 3.2 GHz. The 560 BE runs at 3.3 GHz. Other specs match.
Sources and verification
- Callisto 545 to 570 BE range (Phenom wiki, 3.0 to 3.5 GHz, 80W, AM3)
- Phenom II X2 560 BE 3.3 GHz Callisto (Newegg, 80W, 6MB L3, AM3)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .