AMD Opteron 252 socket: Socket 940

The AMD Opteron 252 uses the Socket 940 socket. It is a 92 W single-core Troy server part at 2.6 GHz with 1 MB of L2 cache for dual-processor racks.

Launched
February 2005
Cores and threads
1 and 1
Default TDP
92 W
Codename
Troy
Segment
Server
Clocks
2.6 GHz

AMD Opteron 252 specifications

Cores1
Threads1
Core architectureTroy cores on 90 nm
Clocks2.6 GHz (no turbo)
Cache1 MB L2
Default TDP92 W
Manufacturing process90 nm
Memory supportRegistered DDR, two channels
PCI ExpressPCIe from the board chipset
Integrated graphicsNone
MultiplierLocked
PackageSocket 940 (940-pin OPGA)

Motherboard compatibility

AMD Opteron 252 needs a motherboard with a Socket 940 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the Socket 940 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.

Socket 940 at a glance

TypePGA, 940 contacts
Package size40 × 40 mm
Introduced2003
MemoryRegistered DDR, through the on-chip controller
Cooler mounting holesBoard specific (server heatsink)

Read the full Socket 940 socket guide

What the Opteron 252 is

The AMD Opteron 252 is a 2.6 GHz single-core server processor from February 2005. It runs one K8 core at 2.6 GHz with no turbo, so 1 core gives 1 thread. Cache is 1 MB of L2 on a 90 nm process. Power is rated at 92 W on Socket 940.

The 252 served performance Troy servers with registered DDR memory on a 1000 MT/s HyperTransport link at about 851 dollars launch price. It exists because dual-processor buyers wanted 2.6 GHz throughput with the full 1 MB cache.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The 252 fits Socket 940 dual-processor server boards with a BIOS that lists Troy parts. It suits performance racks qualified for 92 W parts with registered DDR slots. Check the server maker CPU list for the exact board and stepping. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.

Memory, PCIe and cooling

Memory is registered DDR in two channels through the on-chip controller.

HyperTransport at 1000 MT/s links the CPU to the chipset and other sockets. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.

Cooling uses vendor qualified server heatsinks for the 92 W envelope with directed airflow.

Upgrade paths

On Socket 940 the upgrade is the Opteron 254 at 2.8 GHz with the same 1 MB cache at 92 W, or the AMD Opteron 250 HE at 2.4 GHz for 55 W operation. Beyond Socket 940 a move to Socket F needs new boards and DDR2 memory.

Frequently asked questions

What socket does the Opteron 252 use?

Socket 940, in dual-processor server boards with Troy support.

How many cores does the Opteron 252 have?

One core and 1 thread at 2.6 GHz with 1 MB of L2 cache.

What memory works with the Opteron 252?

Registered DDR in two channels through the on-chip controller.

Sources and verification

  1. List of AMD Opteron processors (Wikipedia)
  2. Socket 940 (Wikipedia)

Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .