AMD Athlon 64 X2 5400+ BE socket: Socket AM2
The AMD Athlon 64 X2 5400+ Black Edition uses the Socket AM2 socket. It is an unlocked 65 W dual-core Brisbane part at 2.8 GHz with 2x512 KB of L2 cache for budget overclockers.
- Socket
- Socket AM2
- Launched
- February 2008
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 65 W
- Codename
- Brisbane
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Athlon 64 X2
- Clocks
- 2.8 GHz
AMD Athlon 64 X2 5400+ BE specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Brisbane cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.8 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2x512 KB L2 |
| Default TDP | 65 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 | Unlocked (Black Edition) |
| Package | Socket AM2 (940 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Athlon 64 X2 5400+ BE 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 5400+ BE is
The AMD Athlon 64 X2 5400+ Black Edition is an unlocked 2.8 GHz Brisbane dual core from February 2008. It runs two K8 cores at 2.8 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 512 KB of L2 per core on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 65 W on Socket AM2.
It exists because AMD extended the Black Edition concept down from flagship parts, giving budget tuners an unlocked multiplier without the flagship price. The unlocked multiplier lets the 5400+ BE tune upward without stressing board chipsets.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 5400+ BE drops into Socket AM2 boards with DDR2 memory, ideally an overclocking-friendly board with voltage control and a BIOS that exposes multiplier settings. It pairs with 700 series DDR2 boards contemporary with Brisbane 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 should be a tower heatsink rated above 65 W on the 48 x 96 mm mount, since tuned voltages push heat past stock levels.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2 the 5400+ BE matches the locked AMD Athlon 64 X2 5400+ at stock while offering free headroom toward 3.0 GHz on air. The alternative clock lift is the AMD Athlon 64 X2 5600+ at 2.9 GHz. 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 5400+ BE use?
Socket AM2, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards.
How many cores does the Athlon 64 X2 5400+ BE have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2.8 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core.
Is the Athlon 64 X2 5400+ BE unlocked?
Yes, the Black Edition suffix means the multiplier is unlocked for overclocking.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .