Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300 socket: Socket P
The Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300 uses the Socket P socket. It is an unlocked 45 W quad-core Penryn QC XE mobile part at 2.533 GHz with 12 MB of L2 cache for enthusiast notebooks.
- Socket
- Socket P
- Launched
- August 2008
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 45 W
- Codename
- Penryn QC XE
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Extreme
- Clocks
- 2.53 GHz
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Penryn QC XE cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 2.533 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 12 MB L2 (2x6 MB) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 45 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2 or DDR3 through the board chipset |
| Front side bus | 1066 MT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board graphics where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked (Extreme Edition) |
| Package | Socket P (478-pin) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300 needs a motherboard with a Socket P socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| Montevina (4 series mobile) | GM45, PM45 | 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 P.
Socket P at a glance
| Type | PGA, 478 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 35 × 35 mm |
| Introduced | May 2007 |
| Memory | DDR2 or DDR3, depending on the chipset, two channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Core 2 Extreme QX9300 is
The Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300 is an unlocked 2.533 GHz mobile quad core from August 2008. It runs four Penryn cores at 2.533 GHz with no turbo, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 6 MB of L2 per die, 12 MB total, on a 45 nm process. Power is rated at 45 W on Socket P.
The QX9300 tops the mobile line with no bus ratio locks, reaching 2.93 GHz in press overclocking, on a 1066 MT/s bus with VT-x virtualization. It exists because enthusiast gaming notebooks wanted the fastest binned mobile silicon with tuning headroom. Not every Centrino 2 notebook cools 45 W quads, so chassis qualification matters.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The QX9300 fits Socket P Montevina notebooks with DDR2 or DDR3 memory, 45 W cooling and a BIOS that lists Extreme mobile quads. Many thin Centrino 2 machines top out at 35 W dual cores and cannot take it. Display comes from the notebook board graphics. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2 or DDR3 through the board chipset in two channels.
A 1066 MT/s front side bus ties the CPU to the mobile chipset. PCIe slots and board graphics hang off the chipset.
Cooling is the notebook vendor heat pipe assembly for a 45 W quad in a gaming chassis, with Enhanced SpeedStep trimming clocks and voltage off load.
Upgrade paths
On Socket P the QX9300 is the mobile ceiling, so the moves are the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9100 at 2.267 GHz locked for a cheaper mobile quad, or the Intel Core 2 Extreme X9100 at 3.06 GHz where dual-core speed matters more. A swap must stay within the thermal design the chassis was qualified for.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core 2 Extreme QX9300 use?
Socket P, the 478-pin package in enthusiast notebooks with 45 W cooling.
How many cores does the Core 2 Extreme QX9300 have?
Four cores and 4 threads at 2.533 GHz with 6 MB of L2 per die.
Is the Core 2 Extreme QX9300 unlocked?
Yes, Extreme Edition means no bus ratio locks for overclocking.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300 specs (TechPowerUp)
- Intel Core 2 Extreme notebook processor (Notebookcheck)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .