Intel Core 2 Duo E4600 socket: LGA 775
The Intel Core 2 Duo E4600 uses the LGA 775 socket. It is a 65 W dual-core Allendale desktop part at 2.4 GHz with 2 MB of shared L2 cache for mainstream towers.
- Socket
- LGA 775
- Launched
- October 2007
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Base power
- 65 W
- Codename
- Allendale
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Duo
- Clocks
- 2.4 GHz
Intel Core 2 Duo E4600 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Allendale cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.4 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2 MB shared L2 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 65 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2 through the board chipset |
| Front side bus | 800 MT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | LGA 775 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Duo E4600 needs a motherboard with a LGA 775 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| Intel 4 series | X48, P45, G45, G41 | Works out of the box |
| Intel 3 series | X38, P35, G33, G31 | 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 LGA 775.
LGA 775 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 775 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | 2004 |
| Memory | DDR, DDR2 or DDR3, depending on the motherboard chipset |
| Cooler mounting holes | 72 × 72 mm |
What the Core 2 Duo E4600 is
The Intel Core 2 Duo E4600 is a 2.4 GHz mainstream dual core from October 2007. It runs two Core cores at 2.4 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 2 MB of shared L2 on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 65 W on LGA 775.
The E4600 tops the Allendale Core 2 line in stepping M0 with a 12x multiplier on an 800 MT/s bus. It exists because Intel stretched the 2 MB dual core to 2.4 GHz for buyers who wanted near-Conroe speed without paying for 4 MB parts.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The E4600 drops into LGA 775 boards with DDR2 memory and a BIOS that lists late-2007 Core 2 Duos, such as 945 and P35 boards. It pairs with mainstream chipsets contemporary with Allendale. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2 through the board chipset in two channels.
An 800 MT/s front side bus ties the CPU to the chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is any 65 W rated LGA 775 heatsink on the 72.5 × 72.5 mm mount, with Enhanced SpeedStep trimming draw at idle.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 775 the E4600 is the 2 MB ceiling, so the upgrade is a 4 MB Conroe such as the Intel Core 2 Duo E6550 at 2.333 GHz, or the Intel Core 2 Duo E4500 at 2.2 GHz for a cheaper 2 MB part. Beyond LGA 775 a move to a newer platform needs a new board and memory.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core 2 Duo E4600 use?
LGA 775, on DDR2 boards with a Core 2-aware BIOS.
How many cores does the Core 2 Duo E4600 have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2.4 GHz with 2 MB of shared L2 cache.
What memory works with the Core 2 Duo E4600?
DDR2 through the board chipset in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .