Intel Xeon L5506 socket: LGA 1366
The Intel Xeon L5506 uses the LGA 1366 socket. It is a 60 W quad core Gainestown server part at 2.133 GHz with 4 MB of L3 cache for efficient dual socket nodes.
- Socket
- LGA 1366
- Launched
- March 2009
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 60 W
- Codename
- Nehalem-EP
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Intel Xeon L
- Clocks
- 2.13 GHz
Intel Xeon L5506 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Gainestown cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 2.133 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 4 MB L3 (shared) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 60 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3 ECC triple channel |
| PCI Express | PCIe Gen 2 from the chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | LGA1366 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Xeon L5506 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1366 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 5500 and 5520 server | 5500, 5520 | 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 1366.
LGA 1366 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,366 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | 2008 |
| Memory | DDR3 triple channel, up to 24 GB on desktop boards |
| Cooler mounting holes | 80 × 80 mm |
What the Xeon L5506 is
The Intel Xeon L5506 is a quad core Gainestown server processor from March 2009. It runs four Nehalem cores at 2.133 GHz with no turbo and no Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 4 MB of shared L3 on a 45 nm process. Power is rated at 60 W with an 800 MT/s bus.
Gainestown is the Xeon 5500 name for Nehalem-EP, so this page files the L5506 under the socket Nehalem-EP codename. The L prefix marks low voltage at 60 W. IBM system options confirm 4C at 2.13 GHz with 4 MB and 60 W.
Memory is DDR3 ECC triple channel per socket.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Xeon L5506 fits LGA 1366 with 1366 lands. Intel 5500 and 5520 chipset boards boot Gainestown directly. Dual socket operation needs a matched pair.
The socket table covers Nehalem-EP natively. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR3 ECC triple channel per socket.
QPI links scale to dual socket nodes, with PCIe Gen 2 from the chipset.
Cooling uses server heatsinks rated for 60 W.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1366 the server upgrade is an 8 MB Gainestown such as the E5520 on the same board. Beyond LGA 1366 a move to Sandy Bridge E5 needs a new board.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Xeon L5506 use?
LGA 1366, the 1366-land package on 5500 and 5520 chipset boards. Gainestown is the Xeon 5500 name for Nehalem-EP.
How many cores does the Xeon L5506 have?
Four cores and four threads at 2.133 GHz with 4 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Xeon L5506?
DDR3 ECC triple channel per socket.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .