AMD Phenom II X3 720 BE socket: Socket AM3
The AMD Phenom II X3 720 Black Edition uses the Socket AM3 socket. It is a 95 W triple core Heka desktop part at 2.8 GHz with 6 MB of L3 cache and an unlocked multiplier.
- Socket
- Socket AM3
- Launched
- February 2009
- Cores and threads
- 3 and 3
- Default TDP
- 95 W
- Codename
- Heka
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Phenom II X3
- Clocks
- 2.8 GHz
AMD Phenom II X3 720 BE specifications
| Cores | 3 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 3 |
| Core architecture | Heka cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 2.8 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 1.5 MB L2 (3 × 512 KB), 6 MB shared L3 |
| Default TDP | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2 and DDR3, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked (Black Edition) |
| Package | Socket AM3 (µPGA, 938 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Phenom II X3 720 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 X3 720 BE is
The AMD Phenom II X3 720 Black Edition is a triple core Heka desktop processor from February 2009. It runs three K10 cores at 2.8 GHz with no turbo, so 3 cores give 3 threads. Each core carries 512 KB of L2 cache for 1.5 MB in total, backed by 6 MB of shared L3 cache. Power is rated at 95 W on a 45 nm process.
The 720 Black Edition was the launch tuning triple with an unlocked multiplier for ratio overclocking. Against the plain 720 it matches clocks with tuning headroom. Some samples unlock to four cores on boards with core unlocking firmware, but unlocking is never guaranteed.
There is no graphics on the die. Board video comes from 7 and 8 series chipsets where fitted.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Phenom II X3 720 Black Edition fits Socket AM3 with 938 pins. All 7 series and 8 series boards boot Heka directly.
AM3 chips also fit AM3+ boards. It also boots on AM2+ DDR2 boards after a BIOS update. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules, and the AMD Phenom II X3 720 page shows the locked twin.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2 up to PC2-8500 and DDR3 up to PC3-10600 in two channels.
HyperTransport links the CPU to the chipset at 2 GHz. PCIe Gen 2 slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is the stock 95 W heatsink on the 48 × 96 mm mount.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM3 the upgrade is the 740 BE or a Phenom II X4 on the same board. Beyond AM3 a move to AM3+ needs a new board.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Phenom II X3 720 BE use?
Socket AM3, the 938-pin package. It also boots on AM2+ DDR2 boards after a BIOS update and on AM3+ boards.
How many cores does the Phenom II X3 720 BE have?
Three cores and three threads at 2.8 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core and 6 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Phenom II X3 720 BE?
DDR2 and DDR3 in two channels.
Can the Phenom II X3 720 BE be overclocked?
Yes. Black Edition means the multiplier is unlocked. Some samples also unlock to four cores on capable boards, but unlocking is never guaranteed.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .