AMD EPYC 7251 socket: SP3
The AMD EPYC 7251 uses the SP3 socket on server boards. It is an 8 core Naples entry chip with DDR4-2400 memory for light single socket racks.
AMD EPYC 7251 specifications
| Cores | 8 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 16 |
| Core architecture | Zen (Naples) |
| Clocks | 2.1 GHz base, up to 2.9 GHz boost |
| Cache | 32 MB L3 and 4 MB L2 (36 MB total) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 120 W |
| Manufacturing process | 14 nm |
| Memory support | DDR4-2400, eight channels, up to 2 TB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 128 lanes from the CPU |
| Integrated graphics | None |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| ECC memory | Yes |
| Package | SP3 (LGA-4094) |
Motherboard compatibility
AMD EPYC 7251 needs a motherboard with a SP3 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the SP3 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
SP3 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 4,094 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 58.5 × 75.4 mm |
| Introduced | June 2017 |
| Memory | DDR4 ECC RDIMM, 8 channels to DDR4-3200, up to 4 TB per socket |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (server heatsink) |
What the EPYC 7251 is
The EPYC 7251 is an eight core, sixteen thread server processor with a 2.1 GHz base and up to 2.9 GHz boost. It carries 4 MB of L2 with 32 MB of shared L3 and a 120 W TDP on the 14 nm process. AMD launched it on June 20, 2017 as the entry Naples SKU.
It is the lone Naples part limited to DDR4-2400, which caps bandwidth at 153.6 GB per sec. Eight cores cover edge servers and storage nodes where lanes matter more than threads. The multiplier is locked.
There is no integrated graphics. ECC memory with RDIMM and LRDIMM support is standard. Pricing is omitted here because launch lists split between $475 and $574.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 7251 fits SP3 on server boards with eight channel DDR4. Boards need a BIOS with Naples support and the exact SKU on the vendor list. Unlike P parts, it runs in one or two socket designs.
Server boards carry 128 PCIe 3.0 lanes per CPU even on this entry SKU, which suits storage heavy nodes. Rack chassis need front to back airflow with vendor qualified heatsinks.
The chip ships tray only with no cooler. The AMD EPYC 7252 is a nearby 8 core option on the same boards.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR4-2400 in eight channels up to 2 TB, with ECC and RDIMM or LRDIMM modules. The 2400 limit is unique in Naples and decides the 153.6 GB per sec ceiling. Eight DIMMs hold rated speed most easily.
PCI Express arrives as version 3.0 with 128 lanes from the CPU for NICs and NVMe. Cooling uses vendor 120 W server heatsinks with directed chassis airflow.
Upgrade paths
On the same socket the step up is a 16 core part such as the EPYC 7281 where threads matter, keeping board and DDR4. The 7251 keeps its place where lanes cover storage nodes at entry cost.
Moving past SP3 means a new board on a current server platform. Rack owners usually add memory or network cards before replacing processors.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the EPYC 7251 use?
It uses SP3 on server boards with a BIOS that lists Naples parts. It runs in one or two socket designs.
How many cores does the 7251 have?
Eight cores with multithreading give sixteen threads at 2.1 GHz base with up to 2.9 GHz boost, at 120 W.
What memory does the 7251 support?
DDR4-2400 only in eight channels up to 2 TB, the lone Naples memory limit, with ECC modules.
How many PCIe lanes does the 7251 have?
128 PCIe 3.0 lanes from the CPU, the full Naples count even on this entry SKU.
What steps sideways from the 7251?
The AMD EPYC 7252 is a nearby 8 core option on the same boards. The 7251 covers entry racks at lower cost.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .