Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 socket: LGA 775
The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 uses the LGA 775 socket. It is a 95 W quad-core Yorkfield desktop part at 2.5 GHz with 6 MB of L2 cache for mainstream towers.
- Socket
- LGA 775
- Launched
- March 2008
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 95 W
- Codename
- Yorkfield
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Quad
- Clocks
- 2.5 GHz
Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Yorkfield cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 2.5 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 6 MB L2 (2x3 MB) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-800 or DDR3-1066 through the board chipset |
| Front side bus | 1333 MT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | LGA 775 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 needs a motherboard with a LGA 775 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| Intel 4 series | X48, P45, G45, G41 | Works out of the box |
| Intel 3 series | X38, P35, G33, G31 | Needs a BIOS update 45 nm Yorkfield quads boot on 3 series boards that list them, after a BIOS update. |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 775.
LGA 775 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 775 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | 2004 |
| Memory | DDR, DDR2 or DDR3, depending on the motherboard chipset |
| Cooler mounting holes | 72 × 72 mm |
What the Core 2 Quad Q9300 is
The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 is a 2.5 GHz mainstream quad core from March 2008. It runs four Yorkfield cores at 2.5 GHz with no turbo, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 3 MB of L2 per die, 6 MB total, on a 45 nm process. Power is rated at 95 W on LGA 775.
The Q9300 brought the 6 MB Yorkfield-6M design to the mainstream on a 1333 MT/s bus at the March 2008 quad launch. It exists because Intel split Yorkfield into 6 MB and 12 MB lines, with the Q9x0x series covering the middle for buyers who wanted quad speed without the flagship price.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Q9300 drops into LGA 775 boards with DDR2 or DDR3 memory and a BIOS that lists early-2008 Yorkfield quads, such as G33 and P35 boards. It pairs with mainstream 3 series chipsets. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2-800 or DDR3-1066 through the board chipset in two channels.
A 1333 MT/s front side bus ties the CPU to the chipset. PCIe 2.0 slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is any 95 W rated LGA 775 heatsink on the 72.5 × 72.5 mm mount, with Enhanced SpeedStep trimming draw at idle.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 775 the upgrade is the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400 at 2.667 GHz or the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9450 at 2.667 GHz with 12 MB of cache. The Intel Core 2 Quad Q8300 at 2.5 GHz is the cheaper 4 MB option. Beyond LGA 775 a move to a newer platform needs a new board and memory.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core 2 Quad Q9300 use?
LGA 775, on DDR2 or DDR3 boards with a quad-aware BIOS.
How many cores does the Core 2 Quad Q9300 have?
Four cores and 4 threads at 2.5 GHz with 3 MB of L2 per die.
What memory works with the Core 2 Quad Q9300?
DDR2-800 or DDR3-1066 through the board chipset in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .