AMD Opteron X2 290 socket: Socket 940

What the Opteron X2 290 is

The AMD Opteron X2 290 is a 2.8 GHz dual-core server processor from 2007. It runs two K8 cores at 2.8 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 95 W on Socket 940.

The 290 closed the Italy 200 series on a 1000 MT/s HyperTransport link at about 698 dollars launch price. It exists because dual-processor buyers wanted the fastest Italy dual core with the full cache at the standard 95 W.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The X2 290 fits Socket 940 dual-processor server boards with a BIOS that lists late Italy dual cores. It suits performance racks qualified for 95 W parts. 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 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 95 W envelope with directed airflow.

Upgrade paths

On Socket 940 the upgrade stays within Italy, as the 290 tops the 200 series. The AMD Opteron X2 285 at 2.6 GHz drops clocks with the same cache, or the AMD Opteron X2 275 HE at 2.2 GHz drops to 55 W. Beyond Socket 940 a move to Socket F needs new boards and DDR2 memory.