Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 socket: LGA 775
The Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 uses the LGA 775 socket. It is an unlocked 136 W quad-core Yorkfield Extreme part at 3.2 GHz with 12 MB of L2 cache for enthusiast towers.
- Socket
- LGA 775
- Launched
- March 2008
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 136 W
- Codename
- Yorkfield
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Extreme
- Clocks
- 3.2 GHz
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Yorkfield cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 3.2 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 12 MB L2 (2x6 MB) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 136 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-800 or DDR3-1066 through the board chipset |
| Front side bus | 1600 MT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 from the board chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (board video where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked (Extreme Edition) |
| Package | LGA 775 |
| Core voltage | 0.85 to 1.3625 V |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 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 Yorkfield quads 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 Extreme QX9770 is
The Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 is an unlocked 3.2 GHz enthusiast quad core from March 2008. It runs four Yorkfield cores at 3.2 GHz with no turbo, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 6 MB of L2 per die, 12 MB total, on a 45 nm process with 820 million transistors. Power is rated at 136 W on LGA 775.
The QX9770 tops the LGA 775 desktop line with an unlocked multiplier for overclocking on a 1600 MT/s bus at 0.85 to 1.3625 V, with VT-x virtualization. It ships as processor only with no cooler in the box. It exists because enthusiasts wanted the fastest binned Yorkfield with tuning headroom.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The QX9770 drops into LGA 775 boards with DDR2 or DDR3 memory, robust voltage regulation and a BIOS that lists Extreme Yorkfield parts, such as X38 and X48 boards. Budget boards cannot feed 136 W quads. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR2-800 or DDR3-1066 through the board chipset in two channels.
A 1600 MT/s front side bus ties the CPU to the chipset. PCIe 2.0 slots hang off the chipset.
Cooling must be a heavy tower heatsink rated above 136 W on the 72.5 × 72.5 mm mount, since tuned voltages push heat past stock levels.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 775 the QX9770 is the ceiling, so the moves are the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9650 at 3.0 GHz locked for a cheaper 95 W flagship, or the Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9775 at 3.2 GHz for dual-socket Skulltrail. 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 QX9770 use?
LGA 775, on high-end DDR2 or DDR3 boards rated for 136 W quads.
How many cores does the Core 2 Extreme QX9770 have?
Four cores and 4 threads at 3.2 GHz with 6 MB of L2 per die.
Is the Core 2 Extreme QX9770 unlocked?
Yes, Extreme Edition means an unlocked multiplier for overclocking.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .