Intel Xeon E5-2403 socket: LGA 1356
The Intel Xeon E5-2403 uses the LGA 1356 socket. It is an 80 W quad core Sandy Bridge-EN server part without Hyper-Threading at 1.8 GHz.
- Socket
- LGA 1356
- Launched
- May 2012
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 80 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge-EN
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Intel Xeon E5
- Clocks
- 1.8 GHz
Intel Xeon E5-2403 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge-EN cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 1.8 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 10 MB |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 80 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-800 and 1066, three channels, ECC |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 24 lanes |
| Integrated graphics | None (server board graphics) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1356 (45 × 42.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Xeon E5-2403 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1356 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| C600 series | C602 | 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 LGA 1356.
LGA 1356 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,356 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 45 × 42.5 mm |
| Introduced | May 2012 |
| Memory | DDR3-800 to 1600 with ECC, three channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (server heatsink) |
What the Xeon E5-2403 is
Intel Xeon E5-2403 is a quad core Sandy Bridge-EN server processor that Intel released in May 2012 for entry dual socket servers. It runs at a fixed 1.8 GHz with no turbo and no Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 10 MB. Power is rated at 80 W on a 32 nm process. The missing features mark it as the bottom of the E5-2400 line for predictable provisioning.
No integrated graphics are present. Memory is limited to DDR3-800 and 1066 over three channels with ECC, which is slower than the 1333 and 1600 steps of higher SKUs. The chip provides 24 PCIe 3.0 lanes plus one 6.4 GT/s QPI link for dual socket pairs.
Fixed low clocks with four plain cores suit cold storage and archival nodes where throughput per watt matters less than acquisition cost. Boards pair it with basic registered DIMMs and SATA RAID. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the socket before ordering.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Xeon E5-2403 fits LGA 1356 in FCLGA1356 form. Dual socket Romley-EN boards with the C600 series controller carry it, with C602 the reference. The vendor list must include the exact E5-2403 string.
At 80 W standard server cooling applies. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers server BIOS rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-800 and 1066, three channels, with ECC and registered DIMMs. The slower ceiling reflects the entry position; populate three channels regardless for bandwidth.
PCI Express is 24 lanes of PCIe 3.0 per socket for storage and network controllers. The 6.4 GT/s QPI link joins socket pairs. Keep I/O near its socket on NUMA boards.
Cooling is vendor qualified for 80 W with chassis airflow. No retail mount exists.
Upgrade paths
Within LGA 1356 almost any E5-2400 move up from the E5-2403 adds turbo, threads or memory speed on the same board. A direct step with Hyper-Threading is Intel Xeon E5-2407 at higher fixed clocks. Memory may want faster DIMMs to match the new SKU.
A platform move means a DDR4 generation. Keep the node for cold duty where four plain Sandy cores still serve.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Xeon E5-2403 use?
It uses LGA 1356. C600 series Socket B2 boards carry it.
Does the Xeon E5-2403 have Hyper-Threading or turbo?
Neither. Four cores give 4 threads at a fixed 1.8 GHz.
What memory does the Xeon E5-2403 use?
DDR3-800 and 1066, three channels, with ECC and registered DIMMs.
Is the Xeon E5-2403 for dual socket boards?
Yes. The 2400 numbering allows two sockets.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .