Intel Core 2 Extreme X7900 socket: Socket P
The Intel Core 2 Extreme X7900 uses the Socket P socket. It is a 44 W unlocked dual-core Merom XE mobile part at 2.8 GHz with 4 MB of shared L2 cache for flagship notebooks.
- Socket
- Socket P
- Launched
- August 2007
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Base power
- 44 W
- Codename
- Merom XE
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core 2 Extreme
- Clocks
- 2.8 GHz
Intel Core 2 Extreme X7900 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Merom XE cores on 65 nm |
| Clocks | 2.8 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 4 MB shared L2 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 44 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 graphics where fitted) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | Socket P (478-pin) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core 2 Extreme X7900 needs a motherboard with a Socket P socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| Montevina (4 series mobile) | GM45, PM45 | Needs a BIOS update |
| Santa Rosa (965) | GM965, PM965 | 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 P.
Socket P at a glance
| Type | PGA, 478 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 35 × 35 mm |
| Introduced | May 2007 |
| Memory | DDR2 or DDR3, depending on the chipset, two channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Core 2 Extreme X7900 is
The Intel Core 2 Extreme X7900 is a 2.8 GHz unlocked mobile dual core from August 2007. It runs two Merom XE cores at 2.8 GHz with no turbo, so 2 cores give 2 threads. Cache is 4 MB of shared L2 on a 65 nm process. Power is rated at 44 W on Socket P.
The X7900 closed the Merom XE line on an 800 MT/s bus in E1 and G0 steppings with a 14x unlocked multiplier at about 851 dollars launch price. It exists because flagship notebooks wanted the fastest 65 nm mobile dual core before 45 nm Penryn XE parts arrived.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The X7900 fits Socket P notebooks with DDR2 memory and a BIOS that lists Extreme Merom parts, such as Santa Rosa PM965 boards with 44 W thermal design. It does not fit Socket M boards despite the shared 478 pins. Display comes from the notebook board graphics. 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 mobile chipset, with throttling between 400 and 800 MT/s. PCIe slots and board graphics hang off the chipset.
Cooling is the notebook vendor heat pipe assembly for a 44 W chassis, with Enhanced SpeedStep trimming clocks and voltage on battery.
Upgrade paths
On Socket P the upgrade is Penryn XE such as the unlocked 2.8 GHz X9000 on Montevina boards, or the Intel Core 2 Extreme X7800 at 2.6 GHz for a lower cost Merom XE. The Intel Core 2 Duo T7800 at 2.6 GHz drops to a locked multiplier at 35 W. A swap must stay within the thermal design the chassis was qualified for.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core 2 Extreme X7900 use?
Socket P, on Santa Rosa boards with Extreme Merom support and 44 W cooling.
How many cores does the Core 2 Extreme X7900 have?
Two cores and 2 threads at 2.8 GHz with 4 MB of shared L2 cache and an unlocked multiplier.
What memory works with the Core 2 Extreme X7900?
DDR2 through the board chipset in two channels.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .