Intel Xeon E-2478 socket: LGA 1700
The Intel Xeon E-2478 uses LGA 1700, the 1700-contact LGA socket for Alder Lake and Raptor Lake processors. The 8-core server chip at 80 W needs an entry server board with DDR5 memory.
- Socket
- LGA 1700
- Launched
- December 2023
- Cores and threads
- 8 and 16
- Base power
- 80 W
- Codename
- Raptor Lake-S
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Intel Xeon E
- Clocks
- 2.8 / 5.2 GHz
Intel Xeon E-2478 specifications
| Cores | 8 (8 Performance-cores, no Efficient-cores) |
|---|---|
| Threads | 16 |
| Core architecture | Raptor Cove P-cores (Raptor Lake-S) |
| Clocks | 2.8 GHz base, up to 5.2 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 24 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 80 W |
| Manufacturing process | Intel 7 |
| Memory support | DDR5-4800, dual channel |
| PCI Express | PCIe Gen5 and Gen4, up to 20 lanes from the CPU |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1700 |
| Cooler in the box | None (server heatsink required) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Xeon E-2478 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1700 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the LGA 1700 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
LGA 1700 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,700 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 45.0 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | November 2021 |
| Memory | DDR4 or DDR5, set by the motherboard (one type per board) |
| Cooler mounting holes | 78 × 78 mm |
What the Xeon E-2478 is
The Xeon E-2478 is the 8-core 80 W member of the Xeon E-2400 family for LGA 1700 entry servers from the fourth quarter of 2023. Eight Raptor Cove Performance-cores with hyperthreading and no Efficient-cores give 8 cores and 16 threads, with base at 2.8 GHz and up to 5.2 GHz turbo. The package carries 24 MB of Smart Cache. The 80 W envelope suits single-socket servers that need threads with moderate power.
Balanced threads with 5.2 GHz turbo cover mixed server duty from web hosting to light virtualization. Dual channel DDR5-4800 feeds 8 fast threads for file and application serving. P-core-only threading keeps licensing simple for per-core software.
Small business buyers land here for 16 threads at 80 W below 95 W flagships. Mixed infrastructure plus backup tasks fit well, while 6-core E parts trim cost for lighter loads. Boards that support Xeon E-2400 need server chipsets with ECC UDIMMs. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers server board choice.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The E-2478 fits LGA 1700 on entry server boards with LGA 1700 retention and server power delivery. Consumer desktop boards are not validated for Xeon E duty. Board lists must name the E-2400 family.
Server chipset choice decides ECC UDIMM support and management rather than CPU fit. Single-socket operation only keeps platform cost down.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
DDR5-4800 in two channels feeds 8 fast threads for mixed server duty. ECC UDIMM support belongs to server boards. Matched pairs hold rated speed.
PCIe Gen5 and Gen4 totalling 20 lanes wire NICs and NVMe through board slots. Cooling is an 80 W server heatsink with front-to-back airflow.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1700 entry server boards the upward moves are 95 W E-2400 flagships where clocks grow, without changing boards where power allows. Memory growth and NIC additions often help more than cores.
Outside single-socket entry servers, Xeon Scalable on LGA 4677 adds sockets and channels. Most E-2478 owners add memory first.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Xeon E-2478 use?
LGA 1700 on entry server boards with Xeon E-2400 BIOS support.
Does the E-2478 have Efficient-cores?
No. Eight Performance-cores with 16 threads run at 2.8 GHz base and up to 5.2 GHz turbo.
What memory does the E-2478 need?
DDR5-4800 in two channels on server boards.
How is E-2478 different from E-2468?
Same 8-core layout with higher 2.8 GHz base and 5.2 GHz turbo at 80 W against 2.6 GHz and 65 W.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .