Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6800 socket: LGA 775
The Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6800 uses the LGA 775 socket. It is a 130 W unlocked quad-core Kentsfield desktop part at 2.933 GHz with 8 MB of L2 cache for enthusiast towers.
- Socket
- LGA 775
- Launched
- April 2007
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 130 W
- Codename
- Kentsfield
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Extreme
- Clocks
- 2.93 GHz
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6800 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Kentsfield XE cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.933 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 8 MB L2 (2x4 MB) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 130 W |
| Manufacturing process | 65 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2 through the board chipset |
| Front side bus | 1066 MT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | LGA 775 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6800 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 |
| Intel 965 and 975X | 975X, P965, G965, Q965 | Needs a BIOS update Works only on boards whose BIOS and voltage regulator were designed for it. Check the board maker's CPU support list. |
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 Extreme QX6800 is
The Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6800 is a 2.933 GHz unlocked desktop quad core from April 2007. It runs four Core cores at 2.933 GHz with no turbo, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 8 MB of L2 as two 4 MB dies on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 130 W on LGA 775.
The QX6800 brought Kentsfield XE to enthusiasts on a 1066 MT/s bus with an 11x unlocked multiplier at about 1199 dollars launch price. It exists because overclockers wanted a multiplier-unlocked quad with the full 8 MB cache at near 3 GHz.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The QX6800 drops into LGA 775 enthusiast boards with DDR2 memory and a BIOS that lists early 2007 Extreme quads, such as 975X and P35 boards. Boards need voltage regulator support for the 130 W envelope. 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.
A 1066 MT/s front side bus ties the CPU to the chipset. PCIe slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling is a 130 W rated LGA 775 tower or high-end heatsink on the 72 mm mount, with Enhanced SpeedStep trimming draw at idle.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 775 the upgrade is the Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6850 at 3 GHz on a 1333 MT/s bus in the same unlocked class, or the Intel Core 2 Quad Q6700 at 2.667 GHz for a locked lower cost quad. Beyond LGA 775 a move to a newer platform needs a new board and memory.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core 2 Extreme QX6800 use?
LGA 775, on enthusiast DDR2 boards with Extreme quad support.
How many cores does the Core 2 Extreme QX6800 have?
Four cores and 4 threads at 2.933 GHz with 8 MB of L2 cache and an unlocked multiplier.
What memory works with the Core 2 Extreme QX6800?
DDR2 through the board chipset in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .