AMD Phenom X4 9600 BE socket: Socket AM2+
The AMD Phenom X4 9600 Black Edition uses the Socket AM2+ socket. It is an unlocked 95 W quad-core Agena part at 2.3 GHz with 4x512 KB of L2 plus 2 MB of shared L3 for overclockers.
- Socket
- Socket AM2+
- Launched
- December 2007
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Default TDP
- 95 W
- Codename
- Agena
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Phenom X4
- Clocks
- 2.3 GHz
AMD Phenom X4 9600 BE specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Agena cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.3 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 4x512 KB L2 plus 2 MB shared L3 |
| Default TDP | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-800 and DDR2-1066, two channels |
| HyperTransport | 1.8 GHz |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked (Black Edition) |
| Package | Socket AM2+ (940 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Phenom X4 9600 BE needs a motherboard with a Socket AM2+ socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 700 series | 790FX, 790X, 770 | 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 | 40 × 40 mm |
| Introduced | November 2007 |
| Memory | DDR2 up to PC2-8500 (DDR2-1066), two channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Phenom X4 9600 BE is
The AMD Phenom X4 9600 Black Edition is an unlocked 2.3 GHz quad core from December 19, 2007. It runs four K10 cores at 2.3 GHz with no turbo, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 512 KB of L2 per core under a shared 2 MB L3 on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 95 W on Socket AM2+.
The 9600 BE is built on the B2 stepping with a 1.8 GHz HyperTransport link, which carries the TLB erratum, but its unlocked multiplier lets tuners chase higher clocks on air. It exists because AMD gave overclockers an unlocked native quad a month after the Phenom launch.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 9600 BE needs a Socket AM2+ board with DDR2 memory and a BIOS that recognizes first-generation Agena parts, ideally an overclocking-friendly board with voltage control. Boards may need the TLB erratum workaround BIOS for the B2 stepping. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2-800 and DDR2-1066 in two channels.
HyperTransport 3.0 at 1.8 GHz links the CPU to the chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling should be a tower heatsink rated above 95 W on the 48 x 96 mm mount, since tuned voltages push heat past stock levels.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2+ the 9600 BE matches the locked AMD Phenom X4 9600 at stock while offering free headroom. The AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE at 2.5 GHz is the faster unlocked quad for tuners. Beyond AM2+ a move to AM3 needs a new board for Phenom II parts.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Phenom X4 9600 BE use?
Socket AM2+, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards with HyperTransport 3.0.
How many cores does the Phenom X4 9600 BE have?
Four cores and 4 threads at 2.3 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core plus 2 MB of shared L3.
Is the Phenom X4 9600 BE unlocked?
Yes, the Black Edition suffix means the multiplier is unlocked for overclocking.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .