AMD Phenom X4 9850 (95W) socket: Socket AM2+
The AMD Phenom X4 9850 (95W) uses the Socket AM2+ socket. It is a 95 W quad-core Agena part at 2.5 GHz with 4x512 KB of L2 plus 2 MB of shared L3, the efficient B3 version of the 9850.
- Socket
- Socket AM2+
- Launched
- October 2008
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Default TDP
- 95 W
- Codename
- Agena
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Phenom X4
- Clocks
- 2.5 GHz
AMD Phenom X4 9850 (95W) specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Agena cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.5 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 | 2.0 GHz |
| PCI Express | PCIe Gen 2 from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket AM2+ (940 pins) |
| Core voltage | 1.20 to 1.25 V |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Phenom X4 9850 (95W) 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 9850 (95W) is
The AMD Phenom X4 9850 (95W) is a 2.5 GHz quad core from October 1, 2008. It runs four K10 cores at 2.5 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 95W 9850 is built on the fixed B3 stepping at 1.20 to 1.25 V, part HD9850WCJ4BGH, with no TLB erratum, and its HyperTransport link runs at 2.0 GHz. It exists alongside a 125W 9850 on the same stepping for boards and coolers that could not feed the hotter bin, which is why the TDP suffix matters when buying.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 9850 (95W) needs a Socket AM2+ board with DDR2 memory and a BIOS that recognizes late-2008 Agena steppings. Most AM2+ boards support it after a BIOS refresh. 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 2.0 GHz links the CPU to the chipset. PCIe Gen 2 slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling should be rated for 95 W on the 48 x 96 mm mount, with Cool'n'Quiet trimming clocks and voltage at idle.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2+ the upgrade is the AMD Phenom X4 9950 BE (125W) at 2.6 GHz unlocked, or the AMD Phenom X4 9850 (125W) where the board feeds the hotter bin. The AMD Phenom X4 9750 (95W) at 2.4 GHz is the cheaper 95 W quad.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Phenom X4 9850 (95W) use?
Socket AM2+, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards with HyperTransport 3.0.
How many cores does the Phenom X4 9850 (95W) have?
Four cores and 4 threads at 2.5 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core plus 2 MB of shared L3.
What is the difference between the Phenom X4 9850 (95W) and 9850 (125W)?
The 95W version is the efficient B3 bin; the 125W version needs a board and cooler rated for the hotter envelope.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .