AMD Athlon 64 X2 6400+ BE socket: Socket AM2
The AMD Athlon 64 X2 6400+ Black Edition uses the Socket AM2 socket. It is an unlocked 125 W dual-core Windsor part at 3.2 GHz with 2x1 MB of L2 cache, the fastest K8 dual core.
- Socket
- Socket AM2
- Launched
- August 2007
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 125 W
- Codename
- Windsor
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Athlon 64 X2
- Clocks
- 3.2 GHz
AMD Athlon 64 X2 6400+ BE specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Windsor cores on 90 nm |
| Clocks | 3.2 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2x1 MB L2 |
| Default TDP | 125 W |
| Manufacturing process | 90 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-667 and DDR2-800, two channels |
| HyperTransport | 1000 MHz |
| 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 6400+ 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 6400+ BE is
The AMD Athlon 64 X2 6400+ Black Edition is the fastest K8 dual core, an unlocked 3.2 GHz part from August 2007. It runs two K8 cores at 3.2 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 1 MB of L2 per core on a 90 nm process. Power is rated at 125 W on Socket AM2.
The 6400+ BE tops the Windsor line with an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. It exists because AMD crowned the K8 dual-core generation with a Black Edition for tuners who wanted top stock speed with headroom. Cooling must be rated for the full 125 W.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 6400+ BE drops into Socket AM2 boards with DDR2 memory, robust voltage regulation and a BIOS that lists 125 W Windsor parts, ideally an overclocking-friendly board with voltage control. Not every AM2 board feeds 125 W dual cores. 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 must be a tower heatsink rated above 125 W on the 48 x 96 mm mount, since tuned voltages push heat past stock levels.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2 the 6400+ BE is the K8 dual-core ceiling, so the moves are the AMD Athlon 64 X2 6000+ at 3.0 GHz locked for a cheaper flagship, or the AMD Athlon X2 7750 BE Kuma for an AM2+ board with L3 cache. 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 6400+ BE use?
Socket AM2, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards rated for 125 W dual cores.
How many cores does the Athlon 64 X2 6400+ BE have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 3.2 GHz with 1 MB of L2 per core.
Is the Athlon 64 X2 6400+ 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 .