AMD Phenom X3 8550 socket: Socket AM2+
The AMD Phenom X3 8550 uses the Socket AM2+ socket. It is a 95 W triple-core Toliman part at 2.2 GHz with 3x512 KB of L2 plus 2 MB of shared L3, on the fixed B3 stepping.
- Socket
- Socket AM2+
- Launched
- April 2008
- Cores and threads
- 3 and 3
- Default TDP
- 95 W
- Codename
- Toliman
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Phenom X3
- Clocks
- 2.2 GHz
AMD Phenom X3 8550 specifications
| Cores | 3 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 3 |
| Core architecture | Toliman cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.2 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 3x512 KB L2 plus 2 MB shared L3 |
| Default TDP | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-800 and DDR2-1066, two channels |
| HyperTransport | 1.8 GHz |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket AM2+ (940 pins) |
| Core voltage | 1.20 to 1.25 V |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Phenom X3 8550 needs a motherboard with a Socket AM2+ socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 700 series | 790FX, 790X, 770 | 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 AM2+.
Socket AM2+ at a glance
| Type | PGA, 940 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 40 × 40 mm |
| Introduced | November 2007 |
| Memory | DDR2 up to PC2-8500 (DDR2-1066), two channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Phenom X3 8550 is
The AMD Phenom X3 8550 is a 2.2 GHz triple core from April 23, 2008. It runs three K10 cores at 2.2 GHz with no turbo, so 3 cores give 3 threads. Cache is 512 KB of L2 per core under a shared 2 MB L3 on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 95 W on Socket AM2+.
The 8550 is built on the fixed B3 stepping, part HD8550WCJ3BGH at 1.20 to 1.25 V, with no TLB erratum. Its HyperTransport link runs at 1.8 GHz. It slots between the 2.1 GHz 8450 and the 2.3 GHz 8650 in the B3 refresh ladder.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 8550 needs a Socket AM2+ board with DDR2 memory and a BIOS that recognizes B3 Toliman parts. Most AM2+ boards support it after a BIOS refresh. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2-800 and DDR2-1066 in two channels.
HyperTransport 3.0 at 1.8 GHz links the CPU to the chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling should be rated for 95 W on the 48 x 96 mm mount, with Cool'n'Quiet trimming clocks and voltage at idle.
Upgrade paths
On Socket AM2+ the upgrade is the AMD Phenom X3 8650 at 2.3 GHz or the AMD Phenom X3 8750 at 2.4 GHz on the same fixed stepping. The AMD Phenom X3 8450 at 2.1 GHz is the cheaper B3 triple.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Phenom X3 8550 use?
Socket AM2+, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards with HyperTransport 3.0.
How many cores does the Phenom X3 8550 have?
Three cores and 3 threads at 2.2 GHz with 512 KB of L2 per core plus 2 MB of shared L3.
What memory works with the Phenom X3 8550?
DDR2-800 and DDR2-1066 in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .