Intel Xeon L5508 socket: LGA 1366
The Intel Xeon L5508 uses the LGA 1366 socket. It is a 38 W dual core Gainestown server part at 2.0 GHz with Turbo Boost to 2.4 GHz and 8 MB of L3 cache for efficient dual socket nodes.
- Socket
- LGA 1366
- Launched
- March 2009
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 38 W
- Codename
- Nehalem-EP
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Intel Xeon L
- Clocks
- 2.0 / 2.4 GHz
Intel Xeon L5508 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Gainestown cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 2.0 GHz base, 2.4 GHz Turbo Boost |
| Cache | 8 MB L3 (shared) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 38 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 L5508 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 L5508 is
The Intel Xeon L5508 is a dual core Gainestown server processor from March 2009. It runs two Nehalem cores at 2.0 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 2.4 GHz, with Hyper-Threading for four threads. Cache is 8 MB of shared L3 on a 45 nm process. Power is rated at 38 W.
Gainestown is the Xeon 5500 name for Nehalem-EP, so this page files the L5508 under the socket Nehalem-EP codename. The 38 W envelope is the lowest dual socket power in this batch for latency sensitive hosts that idle. The 8 MB cache is generous for a dual core.
Memory is DDR3 ECC triple channel per socket.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Xeon L5508 fits LGA 1366 with 1366 lands. Intel 5500 and 5520 chipset boards boot Gainestown directly.
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 38 W.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1366 the server upgrade is a quad Gainestown 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 L5508 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 L5508 have?
Two cores and four threads at 2.0 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 2.4 GHz, with 8 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Xeon L5508?
DDR3 ECC triple channel per socket.
Sources and verification
- Preview Here Comes Intels Nehalem (CRN)
- Tested Processor List for Intel 5500 and 5520 Chipset (Intel)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .