Intel Xeon X5690 socket: LGA 1366
The Intel Xeon X5690 uses the LGA 1366 socket. It is a 130 W six core Westmere-EP server part at 3.46 GHz with turbo to 3.73 GHz.
- Socket
- LGA 1366
- Launched
- February 2011
- Cores and threads
- 6 and 12
- Base power
- 130 W
- Codename
- Westmere-EP
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Intel Xeon X
- Clocks
- 3.46 / 3.73 GHz
Intel Xeon X5690 specifications
| Cores | 6 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 12 |
| Core architecture | Westmere-EP cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.46 GHz base, 3.73 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 12 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 130 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-800 to 1333, three channels, ECC supported |
| QPI links | 2 links, 6.4 GT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | None (server part) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| ECC memory | Supported |
| Package | FCLGA1366 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Xeon X5690 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 X5690 is
Intel Xeon X5690 is a six core Westmere-EP server processor that Intel released in February 2011 for single and dual socket boards. It runs at 3.46 GHz base with turbo to 3.73 GHz and includes Hyper-Threading, so 6 cores give 12 threads. Cache is 12 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 130 W on a 32 nm process.
The X5690 tops the Westmere-EP range on clocks with six cores. Threaded racks use it for the fastest per-thread speed in the generation. Sales started February 13, 2011 for high end dual socket builds.
There is no integrated graphics on this die. Memory runs in three DDR3 channels at up to 1333 MT/s with ECC. Dual socket boards hold 24 threads with this chip.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Xeon X5690 fits LGA 1366 in FCLGA1366 form. Single and dual socket server boards with 5500 and 5520 chipsets carry it. The board BIOS must list the exact X5690 string.
QuickPath links run at 6.4 GT/s between sockets. A board that lists Xeon 56xx strings is the safe choice for flagship builds.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-800 to 1333, three channels, with ECC for mission critical work. Three matched modules per socket give up to 32 GB/s bandwidth. Capacity reaches 288 GB on qualified boards.
QPI links run at 2 by 6.4 GT/s. PCIe comes from the server chipset rather than the processor.
Cooling needs a 130 W rated server heatsink on the 80 by 80 mm pattern. Strong front to back airflow suits the flagship envelope.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1366 the X5690 already tops the range, so later steps are E5-2600 parts on LGA 2011 boards. Memory and storage carry over only with a new platform. A same socket six core reference at lower power is Intel Xeon L5639.
A platform move to DDR4 servers needs new boards and memory. Keep the X5690 board for flagship duty.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Xeon X5690 use?
It uses LGA 1366 on single and dual socket server boards.
Does the Xeon X5690 have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Six cores give 12 threads.
What memory does the Xeon X5690 use?
DDR3-800 to 1333 in three channels with ECC.
Can two Xeon X5690 parts work together?
Yes, up to two CPUs over QuickPath links.
Sources and verification
- Intel Xeon Processor X5690 (Intel ARK, 6 cores, 3.46 GHz, turbo 3.73, 130W, ECC)
- Intel Xeon X5690 3.466 GHz turbo 3.733 GHz Feb 2011 (TPU, 12MB, Socket 1366)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .