Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 socket: LGA 775
The Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 uses the LGA 775 socket. It is a 65 W dual-core Wolfdale desktop part at 3.0 GHz with 6 MB of shared L2 cache for fast towers.
- Socket
- LGA 775
- Launched
- January 2008
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Base power
- 65 W
- Codename
- Wolfdale
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Duo
- Clocks
- 3.0 GHz
Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Wolfdale cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 3.0 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 6 MB shared L2 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 65 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-800 or DDR3-1333 through the board chipset |
| Front side bus | 1333 MT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe Gen 2 from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | LGA 775 |
| Core voltage | 0.85 to 1.3625 V |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 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 | Needs a BIOS update 45 nm Wolfdale parts boot on 3 series boards that list them, after a BIOS update. |
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 E8400 is
The Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 is a 3.0 GHz fast dual core from January 2008. It runs two Wolfdale cores at 3.0 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 6 MB of shared L2 on a 45 nm process. Power is rated at 65 W on LGA 775.
The E8400 broke the 3.0 GHz wall for mainstream dual cores in stepping SLAPL at 0.85 to 1.3625 V on a 1333 MT/s bus, with VT virtualization, SSE4.1, Enhanced SpeedStep, C1E, Execute Disable and Thermal Monitor 2. It ships with a slim 4-pin PWM stock heatsink that runs quiet.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The E8400 drops into LGA 775 boards with DDR2 or DDR3 memory and a BIOS that lists early-2008 Wolfdale parts, such as G33, P35 and X38 boards. It pairs with mainstream and high-end 3 series chipsets. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2-800 or DDR3-1333 through the board chipset in two channels.
A 1333 MT/s front side bus ties the CPU to the chipset. PCIe Gen 2 slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is the included 65 W LGA 775 stock heatsink on the 72.5 × 72.5 mm mount, with Enhanced SpeedStep trimming draw at idle.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 775 the upgrade is the Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 at 3.16 GHz or the Intel Core 2 Duo E8600 at 3.333 GHz within the 6 MB line. The Intel Core 2 Duo E8300 at 2.833 GHz is the cheaper 6 MB option. 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 E8400 use?
LGA 775, on DDR2 or DDR3 boards with a Core 2-aware BIOS.
How many cores does the Core 2 Duo E8400 have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 3.0 GHz with 6 MB of shared L2 cache.
Does the Core 2 Duo E8400 include a cooler?
Yes, a slim 4-pin PWM stock heatsink is included in the box.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .