Intel Xeon E5-2420 socket: LGA 1356
The Intel Xeon E5-2420 uses the LGA 1356 socket. It is a 95 W six core Sandy Bridge-EN server part with 12 threads at 1.9 GHz to 2.4 GHz.
- Socket
- LGA 1356
- Launched
- May 2012
- Cores and threads
- 6 and 12
- Base power
- 95 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge-EN
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Intel Xeon E5
- Clocks
- 1.9 / 2.4 GHz
Intel Xeon E5-2420 specifications
| Cores | 6 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 12 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge-EN cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 1.9 GHz base, up to 2.4 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 15 MB |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-800 to 1333, three channels, ECC |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 24 lanes |
| Integrated graphics | None (server board graphics) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1356 (45 × 42.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Xeon E5-2420 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1356 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| C600 series | C602 | 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 LGA 1356.
LGA 1356 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,356 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 45 × 42.5 mm |
| Introduced | May 2012 |
| Memory | DDR3-800 to 1600 with ECC, three channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (server heatsink) |
What the Xeon E5-2420 is
Intel Xeon E5-2420 is a six core Sandy Bridge-EN server processor that Intel released in May 2012 for mainstream dual socket servers. It runs at 1.9 GHz base with turbo to 2.4 GHz, with 15 MB cache and Hyper-Threading for 12 threads. Power is rated at 95 W on a 32 nm process. Six cores with a wide turbo range made it the volume dual socket choice of the Romley-EN launch.
No integrated graphics are present. Memory is DDR3 at 800, 1066 or 1333 MT/s over three channels with ECC, and the chip gives 24 PCIe 3.0 lanes plus one 7.2 GT/s QPI link. Twelve threads suit virtualization hosts with mixed guests.
Boards pair it with registered DIMMs in 1U and 2U chassis. All core loads sit near base clock, while lightly threaded management tasks reach 2.4 GHz. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the socket before ordering.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Xeon E5-2420 fits LGA 1356 in FCLGA1356 form. C600 series Socket B2 boards, principally C602 dual socket designs, carry it. The vendor list must include the exact E5-2420 string with Sandy Bridge-EN microcode.
At 95 W full size server heatsinks with directed airflow apply. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers server rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3 at 800, 1066 or 1333 MT/s, three channels, with ECC and registered DIMMs. Full population across three channels feeds twelve threads.
PCI Express is 24 lanes of PCIe 3.0 per socket for Ethernet and storage controllers. The 7.2 GT/s QPI link joins socket pairs. NUMA placement matters on dual boards.
Cooling is vendor qualified for 95 W. No retail mount exists, so replacements follow the chassis vendor.
Upgrade paths
Within LGA 1356 the Xeon E5-2420 can step to faster Sandy Bridge-EN or Ivy Bridge-EN six and eight core parts on the same board, where power allows. Memory and storage carry over. A close step up is Intel Xeon E5-2430 with higher clocks.
A platform move means a DDR4 generation. Keep the node for general virtualization duty.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Xeon E5-2420 use?
It uses LGA 1356. C600 series Socket B2 boards carry it.
Does the Xeon E5-2420 have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Six cores give 12 threads with turbo to 2.4 GHz.
What memory does the Xeon E5-2420 use?
DDR3 at 800, 1066 or 1333 MT/s, three channels, with ECC and registered DIMMs.
Is the Xeon E5-2420 for dual socket boards?
Yes. The 2400 numbering allows two sockets.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .