Intel Core i7-980 socket: LGA 1366
The Intel Core i7-980 uses the LGA 1366 socket. It is a 130 W six core Gulftown desktop part at 3.33 GHz with turbo to 3.6 GHz and Hyper-Threading.
- Socket
- LGA 1366
- Launched
- June 2011
- Cores and threads
- 6 and 12
- Base power
- 130 W
- Codename
- Gulftown
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 3.33 / 3.6 GHz
Intel Core i7-980 specifications
| Cores | 6 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 12 |
| Core architecture | Gulftown cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.33 GHz base, 3.6 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 12 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 130 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066, three channels, up to 24 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 from the X58 chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (performance part, discrete card required) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1366 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i7-980 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1366 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| X58 enthusiast | X58 | Works out of the box Early X58 boards may need a BIOS update with Gulftown microcode before a six core chip will start. |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1366.
LGA 1366 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,366 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | 2008 |
| Memory | DDR3 triple channel, up to 24 GB on desktop boards |
| Cooler mounting holes | 80 × 80 mm |
What the Core i7-980 is
Intel Core i7-980 is a six core Gulftown desktop processor that Intel released in June 2011 for high end towers. It runs at 3.33 GHz base with turbo to 3.6 GHz and includes Hyper-Threading, so 6 cores give 12 threads. Cache is 12 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 130 W on a 32 nm process.
Six cores brought workstation threading to desktop X58 boards at a lower price than the Extreme parts. Editing and rendering run well on 12 threads. The locked multiplier keeps clocks at rated values.
There is no integrated graphics on this die, so a separate card is always required. Memory runs in three DDR3 channels, which suits large projects with six DIMM slots.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-980 fits LGA 1366 in FCLGA1366 form. X58 boards boot Gulftown with current microcode, while early boards may need a BIOS update first. The socket uses a load plate with a lever.
QuickPath links the CPU to the X58 northbridge at 4.8 GT/s on this SKU. A board that lists the exact 980 string is the safe choice for used builds.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066, three channels, up to 24 GB on desktop X58 boards with 6 DIMM slots. Three matched modules give the rated bandwidth. ECC is not supported on desktop boards.
PCI Express is revision 2.0 from the X58 chipset for graphics and fast storage, commonly as two x16 slots for multi GPU builds.
Cooling needs a 130 W rated tower on the 80 by 80 mm pattern. The stock cooler is loud under load, so a large aftermarket tower helps.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1366 the 980 can move to the unlocked 980X or 990X for tuning on X58 boards. DDR3 and storage carry over. A same socket workstation reference is Intel Xeon W3690.
A platform move to LGA 2011 needs a new board and memory population in fours. Keep the X58 rig for editing after a GPU refresh.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-980 use?
It uses LGA 1366 on X58 boards.
Does the Core i7-980 have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Six cores give 12 threads.
What memory does the Core i7-980 use?
DDR3-1066, three channels, up to 24 GB on desktop X58 boards.
Does the Core i7-980 have integrated graphics?
No. A separate graphics card is always required.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i7-980 3.33 GHz turbo 3.6 GHz (cpu-socket list, 12MB, 130W, 2011)
- Core i7-980 3.33 GHz Gulftown Jun 2011 (Core i7 list, QPI 4.8, DDR3-1066)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .