AMD Sempron X2 2300 socket: Socket AM2
The AMD Sempron X2 2300 uses the Socket AM2 socket. It is a 65 W dual-core Brisbane budget part at 2.2 GHz with 2x256 KB of L2 cache for value desktops.
- Socket
- Socket AM2
- Launched
- March 2008
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Default TDP
- 65 W
- Codename
- Brisbane
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Sempron
- Clocks
- 2.2 GHz
AMD Sempron X2 2300 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Brisbane cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.2 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2x256 KB L2 |
| Default TDP | 65 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-667 and DDR2-800, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket AM2 (940 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Sempron X2 2300 needs a motherboard with a Socket AM2 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 700 series | 770, 780G | 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 | n/a |
| Introduced | May 2006 |
| Memory | DDR2-667 and DDR2-800, two channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Sempron X2 2300 is
The AMD Sempron X2 2300 is the fastest of the three budget Brisbane dual cores. It runs two K8 cores at 2.2 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 256 KB of L2 per core on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 65 W on Socket AM2.
It exists because AMD topped out the dual-core Sempron line for buyers who wanted the quickest cheap dual core without paying for Athlon X2 cache. The 2300 shipped in the G2 stepping at an 11x multiplier on the standard 200 MHz reference clock. Sources disagree on the launch month between March and April 2008, so the page uses March from the task list.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The X2 2300 drops into Socket AM2 boards with DDR2 memory and needs no special chipset or BIOS beyond standard Brisbane support. It pairs with 700 series DDR2 boards contemporary with early Brisbane parts. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2-667 and DDR2-800 in two channels.
HyperTransport at 800 MHz links the CPU to the chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is any 65 W rated heatsink 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 Athlon X2 4850e with full cache at 45 W, or the AMD Athlon 64 X2 4600+ at 2.4 GHz with full cache. Beyond AM2 a move to AM2+ or AM3 needs a new board for Phenom class parts.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Sempron X2 2300 use?
Socket AM2, the 940-pin package on DDR2 boards.
How many cores does the Sempron X2 2300 have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2.2 GHz with 256 KB of L2 per core.
What memory works with the Sempron X2 2300?
DDR2-667 and DDR2-800 in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .