Intel Xeon X5492 socket: Socket 771

The Intel Xeon X5492 uses the Socket 771 socket. It is a 150 W quad-core Harpertown server part at 3.4 GHz with 12 MB of L2 cache, the fastest Harpertown.

Launched
September 2008
Cores and threads
4 and 4
Base power
150 W
Codename
Harpertown
Segment
Server
Clocks
3.4 GHz

Intel Xeon X5492 specifications

Cores4
Threads4
Core architectureHarpertown cores on 45 nm
Clocks3.4 GHz (no turbo)
Cache12 MB L2 (2x6 MB)
Processor base power (TDP)150 W
Manufacturing process45 nm
Memory supportDDR2 FB-DIMMs through the server board chipset
Front side bus1600 MT/s
PCI ExpressPCIe from the board chipset
Integrated graphicsNone
MultiplierLocked
PackageLGA 771

Motherboard and chipset compatibility

Intel Xeon X5492 needs a motherboard with a Socket 771 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.

SeriesChipsetsSupport
Intel 5400 series5400Works 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 Socket 771.

Socket 771 at a glance

TypeLGA, 771 contacts
Package size37.5 × 37.5 mm
IntroducedMay 2006
MemoryDDR2 and DDR3 through the server board chipset
Cooler mounting holesBoard specific (server heatsink)

Read the full Socket 771 socket guide

What the Xeon X5492 is

The Intel Xeon X5492 is the fastest Harpertown server quad core, a 3.4 GHz part from September 2008. It runs four Core cores at 3.4 GHz with no turbo, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 6 MB of L2 per die, 12 MB total, on a 45 nm process. Power is rated at 150 W on Socket 771.

Harpertown packs two Wolfdale dies with a 1600 MT/s front side bus for dual-processor servers. The X5492 exists because Intel stretched the 45 nm server quad to 3.4 GHz for buyers who needed top per-core speed in 2P racks regardless of power.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The X5492 fits dual-socket Socket 771 server boards with a BIOS that lists 150 W Harpertown parts and robust voltage regulation. Not every 771 board feeds 150 W quads, so the server maker CPU list matters. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.

Memory, PCIe and cooling

Memory is DDR2 FB-DIMMs through the server board chipset.

A 1600 MT/s front side bus ties the CPU to the server chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.

Cooling must be rated for 150 W on server heatsinks with threaded backplates, since sustained loads hold all four cores at full speed.

Upgrade paths

On Socket 771 the X5492 is the Harpertown ceiling, so the moves are the Intel Xeon X5470 at 3.333 GHz for a cheaper 120 W flagship, or low-voltage parts such as the Intel Xeon L5430 at 2.667 GHz and 50 W. Beyond Socket 771 a move to a newer Xeon platform needs new boards and memory.

Frequently asked questions

What socket does the Xeon X5492 use?

Socket 771, in dual-socket server boards rated for 150 W quads.

How many cores does the Xeon X5492 have?

Four cores and 4 threads at 3.4 GHz with 6 MB of L2 per die.

What memory works with the Xeon X5492?

DDR2 FB-DIMMs through the server board chipset.

Sources and verification

  1. Intel releases new Xeon processors (eWeek)
  2. LGA 771 (Wikipedia)

Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .