Intel Core 2 Extreme X7800 socket: Socket P
The Intel Core 2 Extreme X7800 uses the Socket P socket. It is a 44 W unlocked dual-core Merom XE mobile part at 2.6 GHz with 4 MB of shared L2 cache for flagship notebooks.
- Socket
- Socket P
- Launched
- July 2007
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Base power
- 44 W
- Codename
- Merom XE
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Extreme
- Clocks
- 2.6 GHz
Intel Core 2 Extreme X7800 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Merom XE cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.6 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 4 MB shared L2 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 44 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2 through the board chipset |
| Front side bus | 800 MT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board graphics where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | Socket P (478-pin) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Extreme X7800 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 | Needs a BIOS update |
| Santa Rosa (965) | GM965, PM965 | 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 X7800 is
The Intel Core 2 Extreme X7800 is a 2.6 GHz unlocked mobile dual core from July 2007. It runs two Merom XE cores at 2.6 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 4 MB of shared L2 on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 44 W on Socket P.
The X7800 opened the Merom XE Extreme line on an 800 MT/s bus in E1 stepping with a 13x unlocked multiplier at about 851 dollars launch price. It exists because flagship notebooks wanted an overclockable mobile dual core with the full 4 MB cache and higher voltage range.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The X7800 fits Socket P notebooks with DDR2 memory and a BIOS that lists Extreme Merom parts, such as Santa Rosa PM965 boards with 44 W thermal design. It does not fit Socket M boards despite the shared 478 pins. 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 through the board chipset in two channels.
An 800 MT/s front side bus ties the CPU to the mobile chipset, with throttling between 400 and 800 MT/s. PCIe slots and board graphics hang off the chipset.
Cooling is the notebook vendor heat pipe assembly for a 44 W chassis, with Enhanced SpeedStep trimming clocks and voltage on battery.
Upgrade paths
On Socket P the upgrade is the Intel Core 2 Extreme X7900 at 2.8 GHz in the same 44 W unlocked class, or the Intel Core 2 Duo T7800 at 2.6 GHz with a locked multiplier for a lower cost. Beyond Socket P a move to Penryn XE needs a Montevina board that lists 45 nm Extreme parts. A swap must stay within the thermal design the chassis was qualified for.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core 2 Extreme X7800 use?
Socket P, on Santa Rosa boards with Extreme Merom support and 44 W cooling.
How many cores does the Core 2 Extreme X7800 have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2.6 GHz with 4 MB of shared L2 cache and an unlocked multiplier.
What memory works with the Core 2 Extreme X7800?
DDR2 through the board chipset in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .