AMD Phenom II X2 B57 socket: Socket AM3
The AMD Phenom II X2 B57 uses the Socket AM3 socket. It is an 80 W dual core Callisto business part at 3.2 GHz for office towers.
- Socket
- Socket AM3
- Launched
- May 2010
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 80 W
- Codename
- Callisto
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Phenom II X2
- Clocks
- 3.2 GHz
AMD Phenom II X2 B57 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Callisto cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 3.2 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 6 MB L3, 1 MB L2 (2 × 512 KB) |
| Default TDP | 80 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1333, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket AM3 (µPGA, 938 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Phenom II X2 B57 needs a motherboard with a Socket AM3 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 7 and 8 series | 7-Series, 8-Series | 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 AM3.
Socket AM3 at a glance
| Type | PGA, 941 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 40 × 40 mm |
| Introduced | February 2009 |
| Memory | DDR2 up to PC2-8500 and DDR3 up to PC3-10600 |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Phenom II X2 B57 is
AMD Phenom II X2 B57 is a dual core Callisto business processor that AMD released in May 2010 for office towers. It runs at a fixed 3.2 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 2 by 512 KB of L2 with 6 MB of shared L3. Power is 80 W on a 45 nm process.
The B prefix marks business class with stable supply for fleet buyers. The large L3 separates it from Athlon II duals in memory heavy work. Office suites and light creation tasks run well at 3.2 GHz.
There is no integrated graphics on this die. AM3 boards with 7 and 8 series chipsets provide board video where fitted. Memory is DDR3 in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Phenom II X2 B57 fits Socket AM3 with 938 pins in µPGA form. Business boards with 780V and 880G class chipsets boot Callisto directly. The board BIOS must list the exact B57 string.
AM3 chips also fit AM3+ boards. Check the board CPU list, since business strings sometimes lag retail lists.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1333, two channels. A matched pair helps the shared L3 block. ECC needs workstation boards and is not covered here.
HyperTransport links the CPU to the chipset at 2 GHz. PCIe slots hang off the board chipset rather than the processor.
Cooling is the stock 80 W heatsink on the 48 by 96 mm mount. A clean fan holds the fixed 3.2 GHz behavior.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM3 the B57 can move to a Phenom II X2 560 BE for unlocked tuning on the same board. Memory and storage carry over. A same socket business reference is the B59 class where listed.
A platform move to DDR4 needs a new board and RAM. Keep the B57 tower for fleet duty.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the AMD Phenom II X2 B57 use?
It uses Socket AM3 in µPGA form.
How is the Phenom II X2 B57 different from the 555?
The B prefix marks business class supply. Clocks match the retail 555 class.
What memory does the Phenom II X2 B57 use?
DDR3-1333 in two channels.
Is the Phenom II X2 B57 unlocked?
No. The multiplier is locked. Black Edition parts unlock it.
Sources and verification
- Callisto dual-core family (Phenom wiki, 3.0 to 3.5 GHz, 80W, AM3)
- Phenom II X2 560 BE 3.3 GHz Callisto (Newegg, 80W, 6MB L3, AM3)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .