Intel Xeon L5638 socket: LGA 1366
The Intel Xeon L5638 uses the LGA 1366 socket. It is a 60 W six core Westmere-EP server part at 2.0 GHz with Turbo Boost to 2.4 GHz and 12 MB of L3 cache for efficient dual socket nodes.
- Socket
- LGA 1366
- Launched
- March 2010
- Cores and threads
- 6 and 12
- Base power
- 60 W
- Codename
- Westmere-EP
- Segment
- Server
- Family
- Intel Xeon L
- Clocks
- 2.0 / 2.4 GHz
Intel Xeon L5638 specifications
| Cores | 6 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 12 |
| Core architecture | Westmere-EP cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.0 GHz base, 2.4 GHz Turbo Boost |
| Cache | 12 MB L3 (shared) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 60 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3 ECC triple channel |
| PCI Express | PCIe Gen 2 from the chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | LGA1366 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Xeon L5638 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 L5638 is
The Intel Xeon L5638 is a six core Westmere-EP server processor from March 2010. It runs six Westmere cores at 2.0 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 2.4 GHz, with Hyper-Threading for twelve threads. Cache is 12 MB of shared L3 on a 32 nm process. Power is rated at 60 W.
The L5638 pairs six cores with a 60 W envelope for dense efficient nodes, matching the 60 W L5640 on cache with lower clocks. Blade vendors planned it for late 2010 systems after the March launch. Against the 80 W E5645 it trades clocks for power at the same core count.
Memory is DDR3 ECC triple channel per socket.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Xeon L5638 fits LGA 1366 with 1366 lands. Intel 5500 and 5520 chipset boards boot it with BIOS 45 or later. Dual socket operation needs a matched pair.
The socket table covers Westmere-EP natively. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR3 ECC triple channel per socket.
QPI links scale to dual socket nodes, with PCIe Gen 2 from the chipset.
Cooling uses server heatsinks rated for 60 W.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1366 the server upgrade is the L5640 with higher clocks at the same 60 W. Beyond LGA 1366 a move to Sandy Bridge E5 needs a new board.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Xeon L5638 use?
LGA 1366, the 1366-land package on 5500 and 5520 chipset boards with BIOS 45 or later.
How many cores does the Xeon L5638 have?
Six cores and twelve threads at 2.0 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 2.4 GHz, with 12 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Xeon L5638?
DDR3 ECC triple channel per socket.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .