AMD Athlon 64 2850e socket: Socket AM2
The AMD Athlon 64 2850e uses the Socket AM2 socket. It is a 22 W single-core Lima low-power part at 1.8 GHz with 512 KB of L2 cache for efficient desktops.
- Socket
- Socket AM2
- Launched
- August 2008
- Cores and threads
- 1 and 1
- Default TDP
- 22 W
- Codename
- Lima
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Athlon 64
- Clocks
- 1.8 GHz
AMD Athlon 64 2850e specifications
| Cores | 1 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 1 |
| Core architecture | Lima cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 1.8 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 512 KB L2 |
| Default TDP | 22 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-667 and DDR2-800, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket AM2 (940 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Athlon 64 2850e needs a motherboard with a Socket AM2 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 700 series | 770, 780G | 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 Socket AM2.
Socket AM2 at a glance
| Type | PGA, 940 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | May 2006 |
| Memory | DDR2-667 and DDR2-800, two channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Athlon 64 2850e is
The AMD Athlon 64 2850e is a low-power 1.8 GHz Lima single core from August 2008. It runs one K8 core at 1.8 GHz with no turbo, so 1 core gives 1 thread. Cache is 512 KB of L2 on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 22 W on Socket AM2.
The e suffix denotes a binned low-voltage part, so the 2850e holds 1.8 GHz inside roughly half the power of a standard Lima. It exists because system builders wanted a K8 part that could cool quietly in small-form-factor and always-on office PCs.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 2850e drops into Socket AM2 boards with DDR2 memory and needs no special chipset or BIOS beyond standard Lima support. It pairs with 700 series DDR2 boards contemporary with late AM2 parts. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2-667 and DDR2-800 in two channels.
HyperTransport at 1000 MHz links the CPU to the chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is a small low-profile 25 W class heatsink on the 48 x 96 mm mount, with Cool'n'Quiet trimming clocks and voltage at idle.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2 the upgrade is the AMD Athlon 64 3100+ at 2.0 GHz and 25 W for more speed at a similar envelope, or the AMD Athlon 64 2650e at 1.6 GHz and 15 W for cooler running. Beyond AM2 a move to AM2+ or AM3 needs a new board for Phenom class parts.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Athlon 64 2850e use?
Socket AM2, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards.
How many cores does the Athlon 64 2850e have?
One core and one thread at 1.8 GHz with 512 KB of L2 cache.
What memory works with the Athlon 64 2850e?
DDR2-667 and DDR2-800 in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .