AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800+ socket: Socket AM2
The AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800+ uses the Socket AM2 socket. It is an 89 W dual-core Windsor desktop part at 2 GHz with 2x512 KB of L2 cache for multitasking towers.
- Socket
- Socket AM2
- Launched
- May 2006
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 89 W
- Codename
- Windsor
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Athlon 64 X2
- Clocks
- 2.0 GHz
AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800+ specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Windsor cores on 90 nm |
| Clocks | 2 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 1 MB L2 (2x512 KB) |
| Default TDP | 89 W |
| Manufacturing process | 90 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 X2 3800+ 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 X2 3800+ is
The AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800+ is a 2 GHz dual-core desktop processor from May 2006. It runs two K8 cores at 2 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 512 KB of L2 per core on a 90 nm process. Power is rated at 89 W on Socket AM2.
The Windsor 3800+ opened the Socket AM2 X2 line on a 1000 MT/s HyperTransport link with a 10x multiplier at about 303 dollars launch price. It exists because buyers wanted entry dual core multitasking with 512 KB per core on DDR2 boards.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 3800+ drops into Socket AM2 boards with DDR2 memory and a BIOS that lists Windsor dual cores. It pairs with mainstream AM2 chipsets contemporary with the May 2006 launch. 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 through the on-chip controller.
HyperTransport at 1000 MT/s links the CPU to the chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is any 89 W rated AM2 heatsink on the 48 × 96 mm mount, with CoolnQuiet trimming draw at idle.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2 the upgrade is the AMD Athlon 64 X2 4000+ at 2 GHz with 2x1 MB in the same 89 W class, or the AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800+ EE at 2 GHz for the same clocks at 65 W. 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 X2 3800+ use?
Socket AM2, on DDR2 boards with a Windsor-aware BIOS.
How many cores does the Athlon 64 X2 3800+ have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core.
What memory works with the Athlon 64 X2 3800+?
DDR2 in two channels through the on-chip controller.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .