Intel Core 2 Extreme X9100 socket: Socket P
The Intel Core 2 Extreme X9100 uses the Socket P socket. It is an unlocked 44 W dual-core Penryn XE mobile part at 3.06 GHz with 6 MB of shared L2 cache, the fastest mobile Penryn dual core.
- Socket
- Socket P
- Launched
- July 2008
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Base power
- 44 W
- Codename
- Penryn XE
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Extreme
- Clocks
- 3.06 GHz
Intel Core 2 Extreme X9100 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Penryn XE cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 3.06 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 6 MB shared L2 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 44 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) |
| Core voltage | 1.05 to 1.2625 V |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Extreme X9100 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 X9100 is
The Intel Core 2 Extreme X9100 is an unlocked 3.06 GHz mobile dual core from the July 2008 Centrino 2 launch. It runs two Penryn cores at 3.06 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 6 MB of shared L2 on a 45 nm process. Power is rated at 44 W on Socket P.
The X9100 tops the mobile dual-core line on a 1066 MT/s bus at 1.05 to 1.2625 V, with no bus ratio locks so tuners can raise the multiplier freely. The die measures 107 mm². It exists because enthusiast notebooks wanted the fastest binned Penryn with overclocking headroom at Centrino 2 launch.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The X9100 fits Socket P Montevina notebooks with DDR2 or DDR3 memory and a BIOS that lists Extreme Penryn parts, validated on GL960 and PM45 boards. It does not fit Santa Rosa boards without 1066 MT/s Extreme support. 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 the exact gaming chassis, with Enhanced SpeedStep trimming clocks and voltage off load.
Upgrade paths
On Socket P the X9100 is the dual-core ceiling, so the moves are the Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300 at 2.533 GHz for four cores, or the Intel Core 2 Extreme X9000 at 2.8 GHz for a cheaper unlocked dual core. A swap must stay within the thermal design the chassis was qualified for.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core 2 Extreme X9100 use?
Socket P, the 478-pin package in enthusiast notebooks.
How many cores does the Core 2 Extreme X9100 have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 3.06 GHz with 6 MB of shared L2 cache.
Is the Core 2 Extreme X9100 unlocked?
Yes, Extreme Edition means no bus ratio locks for overclocking.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core2 Extreme Processor X9100 (Intel ARK)
- Intel Core 2 Extreme notebook processor (Notebookcheck)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .