Intel Xeon E5603 socket: LGA 1366
The Intel Xeon E5603 uses the LGA 1366 socket. It is an 80 W quad core Westmere-EP server part at a fixed 1.6 GHz with no turbo and no Hyper-Threading.
- Socket
- LGA 1366
- Launched
- February 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 80 W
- Codename
- Westmere-EP
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Intel Xeon E
- Clocks
- 1.6 GHz
Intel Xeon E5603 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Westmere-EP cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 1.6 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 4 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 80 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-800 and 1066, three channels, ECC supported |
| QPI links | 2 links, 4.8 GT/s |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | None (server part) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| ECC memory | Supported |
| Package | FCLGA1366 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Xeon E5603 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1366 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 5500 and 5520 server | 5500, 5520 | 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 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 Xeon E5603 is
Intel Xeon E5603 is a quad core Westmere-EP server processor that Intel released in February 2011 for single and dual socket boards. It runs at a fixed 1.6 GHz with no turbo and no Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 4 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 80 W on a 32 nm process.
The fixed low clock suits entry dual socket nodes where socket count matters more than speed. Small virtual farms use 8 threads per board. Power draw stays flat without turbo steps.
There is no integrated graphics on this die. Memory runs in three DDR3 channels at 800 or 1066 MT/s with ECC. The chip launched in the first quarter of 2011.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Xeon E5603 fits LGA 1366 in FCLGA1366 form. Single and dual socket server boards with 5500 and 5520 chipsets carry it. The board BIOS must list the exact E5603 string.
QuickPath links run at 4.8 GT/s between sockets. A board that lists Xeon 56xx strings is the safe choice for dual socket builds.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-800 and 1066, three channels, with ECC for mission critical work. Three matched modules per socket give the rated bandwidth. Capacity follows the board design.
QPI links run at 2 by 4.8 GT/s. PCIe comes from the server chipset rather than the processor.
Cooling uses 80 W server heatsinks on the 80 by 80 mm pattern with front to back airflow. Low clocks keep fan speeds down.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1366 the E5603 can move to the E5606 for higher fixed clocks on the same board. Memory and storage carry over where the board lists both strings. A same socket low power reference is the L5630 class at 40 W.
A platform move to LGA 2011 servers needs new boards and memory in fours. Keep the E5603 board for entry lab duty.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Xeon E5603 use?
It uses LGA 1366 on single and dual socket server boards.
Does the Xeon E5603 have Hyper-Threading?
No. Four cores give 4 threads at a fixed 1.6 GHz.
What memory does the Xeon E5603 use?
DDR3-800 and 1066 in three channels with ECC.
Can two Xeon E5603 parts work together?
Yes, up to two CPUs over QuickPath links.
Sources and verification
- Intel Xeon Processor E5603 (Intel ARK, 4 cores, 1.6 GHz, no turbo, 4MB, 80W, Q1-11)
- E5603 1.6 GHz 4MB Feb 2011 (Simple Xeon list, LGA1366, 80W)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .