AMD

AMD Opteron 254

AMD processor specifications and benchmark scores

1
Cores
1
Threads
GHz Boost
92W
TDP

AMD Opteron 254 Specifications

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Opteron 254 Core Configuration

Processing cores and threading

The AMD Opteron 254 features 1 physical cores and 1 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.

Cores
1
Threads
1
SMP CPUs
2
⏱️

Opteron 254 Clock Speeds

Base and boost frequencies

Clock speed is a critical factor in Opteron 254 benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Opteron 254 by AMD can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.

Base Clock
2.8 GHz
Boost Clock
N/A
Multiplier
14x
💾

AMD's Opteron 254 Cache Hierarchy

L1, L2, L3 cache sizes

Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the Opteron 254 processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Opteron 254's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.

L1 Cache
128 KB
L2 Cache
1 MB
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K8 Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The AMD Opteron 254 is built on AMD's 90 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in Opteron 254 incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.

Architecture
K8
Codename
Troy
Process Node
90 nm
Transistors
106 million
Generation
Opteron (Troy (E4))
🔢

K8 Instruction Set Features

Supported CPU instructions and extensions

The Opteron 254 by AMD supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.

MMX
SSE
SSE2
SSE3
AMD64
AMD-V
🔌

Opteron 254 Power & Thermal

TDP and power specifications

The AMD Opteron 254 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 92W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.

TDP
92W
🔧

AMD Socket 940 Platform & Socket

Compatibility information

The Opteron 254 uses the AMD Socket 940 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.

Socket
AMD Socket 940
PCIe
Gen 2
Package
µPGA
DDR5

AMD Socket 940 Memory Support

RAM compatibility and speeds

Memory support specifications for the Opteron 254 define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Opteron 254 determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.

Memory Bus
Dual-channel
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Opteron 254 Product Information

Release and pricing details

The AMD Opteron 254 is manufactured by AMD and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Opteron 254 by AMD offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within AMD's product lineup.

Manufacturer
AMD
Release Date
Aug 2005
Market
Server/Workstation
Status
End-of-life
Part Number
OSA254FAA5BLOSP254FAA5BL

Opteron 254 Benchmark Scores

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No benchmark data available for this CPU.

About AMD Opteron 254

The AMD Opteron 254 (AMD) represents a pivotal era in server and workstation CPU design, built on a 90 nm manufacturing process. Released in August 2005, this processor was part of AMD’s Troy (E4) generation, which introduced 64-bit computing to mainstream data centers. The 90 nm node, while advanced for its time, resulted in a thermal design power (TDP) of 92W, reflecting the trade-offs between performance and power efficiency typical of early-generation processors. The single-core, single-thread architecture of the Opteron 254 was optimized for workloads prioritizing raw clock speed, with a base frequency of 2.80 GHz. Despite its age, the 90 nm process enabled robust single-threaded performance, though it lacked the power efficiency of later 65 nm and 45 nm nodes. Socket compatibility with AMD Socket 940 ensured broad motherboard support, making it a staple in mid-2000s server deployments. However, by modern standards, its process node and thermal output are now considered outdated for high-density computing environments. Performance metrics for the AMD Opteron 254 (AMD) highlight its role as a single-core workhorse during its peak. Benchmarks from its era showcased competitive single-threaded performance against contemporary Intel Xeon processors, particularly in applications unoptimized for multi-threading. The 2.80 GHz base clock, combined with a 1 MB L2 cache, allowed it to handle tasks like virtualization, scientific simulations, and enterprise databases with reasonable efficiency. However, its lack of hyper-threading and limited core count made it less versatile for modern parallelized workloads. Legacy testing suggests it outperformed its immediate predecessors in clock-for-clock performance but fell short of multi-core competitors in multi-tasking scenarios. Its 90 nm architecture, while reliable, contributed to higher power consumption, which could limit scalability in large server farms. For users relying on single-threaded applications, the Opteron 254 remains a historical reference point for early 64-bit CPU capabilities. In its competitive positioning, the AMD Opteron 254 (AMD) directly challenged Intel’s Xeon 3000 series in the dual-socket server market. AMD’s focus on 64-bit architecture and competitive pricing positioned the Opteron 254 as a cost-effective solution for businesses transitioning from 32-bit systems. The absence of hyper-threading and multi-core support placed it at a disadvantage against Intel’s multi-core Xeons introduced in the mid-2000s, but its single-threaded performance and 64-bit capabilities made it a compelling choice for specific use cases. The Troy generation’s unified memory architecture and support for Error-Correcting Code (ECC) memory further enhanced its appeal in mission-critical environments. However, as multi-core demand surged, the Opteron 254’s single-core design became a bottleneck, pushing users toward newer AMD and Intel architectures. Its TDP of 92W, while manageable for the time, would be considered high by modern standards, affecting its viability in energy-conscious deployments. For legacy builds or enthusiasts, the AMD Opteron 254 (AMD) requires careful consideration of compatibility and cooling. Socket 940 motherboards, such as those based on the nForce4 or AMD-800 chipsets, are essential for installation. A robust cooling solution is recommended due to its 92W TDP, with air or liquid cooling systems capable of managing thermal output in confined spaces. Memory compatibility favors DDR2 SDRAM, though ECC support is crucial for server-grade reliability. Key recommendations for building with the Opteron 254 include:
  • Pairing it with a Socket 940 motherboard supporting 64-bit computing.
  • Using high-quality ECC DDR2 modules for stability in server environments.
  • Ensuring adequate airflow to mitigate heat from the 90 nm process.
While the Opteron 254 is not suitable for modern multi-threaded applications, it remains a viable option for retro computing projects, educational purposes, or budget-conscious setups requiring basic server functionality. Its historical significance and 64-bit capabilities make it a unique choice for niche applications where newer hardware is overkill.

The Intel Equivalent of Opteron 254

Looking for a similar processor from Intel? The Intel Core i5-750 offers comparable performance and features in the Intel lineup.

Intel Core i5-750

Intel • 4 Cores

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