AMD Opteron 3280 socket: AM3+
The AMD Opteron 3280 uses the AM3+ socket. It is an 8 core Zurich server part at 65 W that boots on 9 series boards that list the model.
- Socket
- AM3+
- Launched
- March 2012
- Cores and threads
- 8 and 8
- Default TDP
- 65 W
- Codename
- Zurich
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- AMD Opteron
- Clocks
- 2.4 / 3.5 GHz
AMD Opteron 3280 specifications
| Cores | 8 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Bulldozer cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.4 GHz base, up to 2.7 GHz (all cores) and 3.5 GHz (half cores) |
| Cache | 8 MB L2 and 8 MB L3 |
| Default TDP | 65 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3 up to 1866 MT/s, two channels, ECC |
| PCI Express | None from the CPU. The chipset provides PCIe |
| Integrated graphics | None |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | AM3+ (PGA, 942 contacts) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Opteron 3280 needs a motherboard with a AM3+ socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 9 series | 990FX, 990X, 970 | Needs a BIOS update Server Opteron 3200 parts boot on 9 series boards that list them, after a BIOS update. Check ECC UDIMM support per board. |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for AM3+.
AM3+ at a glance
| Type | PGA, 942 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | October 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Opteron 3280 is
AMD Opteron 3280 is a 8 core Zurich server processor that AMD released in March 2012 for single socket cloud and hosting nodes. It uses the Bulldozer core design on a 32 nm process, with a base clock of 2.4 GHz and turbo up to 3.5 GHz. The cache is 8 MB L2 and 8 MB L3. The thermal rating is 65 W, which is low for a server chip of this era. There are no integrated graphics, so console output depends on the board management controller.
The 8 cores sit in four Bulldozer modules. Each module holds two integer cores that share part of the front end. Threads equal cores at 8, since Bulldozer has no simultaneous multithreading. The 32 nm silicon pairs with DDR3 ECC memory in two channels, which suits virtualized hosting with many small guests.
At 65 W the Opteron 3280 belongs to the efficiency end of the AM3+ server line. Boards for this chip are 9 series server or workstation boards with ECC UDIMM support. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the socket before ordering parts.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Opteron 3280 fits AM3+, which has 942 contacts for a processor with pins. Server and workstation boards with 9 series chipsets accept it where the maker CPU support list names the exact model, after a BIOS update. The update has to be installed before the new processor goes in.
Power delivery at 65 W is modest for AM3+, so most 9 series boards cover it. Memory support decides more builds than power: the board must accept ECC UDIMMs for server duty. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide explains the 48 by 96 mm pattern. Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works covers AMD pairing rules.
The 3280 carried a 229 USD launch price under part number OS3280OLW8KGU, and the ASUS Crosshair V Formula-Z lists it from BIOS 2201. Its B2 stepping shares the 315 mm2 Bulldozer die with the desktop FX line.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3 ECC up to 1866 MT/s in two channels, up to 32 GB per socket in most boards. ECC UDIMMs are the server choice, since they catch single bit errors in long running guests. Two matched modules give the rated bandwidth.
PCI Express comes from the chipset, not from the Zurich die. The processor links to the chipset over HyperTransport, and slots hang off the board. Storage standards beyond SATA follow the board as well.
Cooling for the 65 W Opteron 3280 suits 1U and 2U server heatsinks with directed airflow, or a tower air cooler in a workstation chassis. The 48 by 96 mm mounting pattern carries over from AM2 and AM3.
Upgrade paths
Within AM3+ the server path is narrow. The Opteron 3280 sits in the Zurich efficiency range, with the Delhi Opteron 3300 series above it on newer Piledriver silicon. A same socket move to a desktop FX is possible on paper but loses ECC positioning.
A real upgrade means a new platform. AMD moved servers to SP3 with DDR4 memory and many more cores. That move needs a new board, new memory and often a new chassis. Keep the AM3+ node for secondary duty or retire it whole.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the AMD Opteron 3280 use?
It uses AM3+. Check the board maker CPU support list for the minimum BIOS.
Does the Opteron 3280 have integrated graphics?
No. It needs a separate graphics card for any display output.
What memory does the Opteron 3280 use?
DDR3 up to 1866 MT/s, two channels, ECC. Two matched modules give the rated bandwidth.
Does the Opteron 3280 need a BIOS update?
Often yes on boards bought before March 2012. Install the update before fitting the chip.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .