AMD Opteron 6386 SE
AMD processor specifications and benchmark scores
AMD Opteron 6386 SE Specifications
Opteron 6386 SE Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The AMD Opteron 6386 SE features 16 physical cores and 16 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.
Opteron 6386 SE Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Opteron 6386 SE 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 6386 SE by AMD can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
AMD's Opteron 6386 SE Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the Opteron 6386 SE 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 6386 SE's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Piledriver Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The AMD Opteron 6386 SE is built on AMD's 32 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 6386 SE incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Piledriver Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Opteron 6386 SE 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.
Opteron 6386 SE Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The AMD Opteron 6386 SE has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 140W, 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.
AMD Socket G34 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Opteron 6386 SE uses the AMD Socket G34 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.
AMD Socket G34 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the Opteron 6386 SE 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 6386 SE 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.
Opteron 6386 SE Product Information
Release and pricing details
The AMD Opteron 6386 SE 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 6386 SE by AMD offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within AMD's product lineup.
Opteron 6386 SE Benchmark Scores
cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicoreSource
Cinebench R15 multi-core renders a complex 3D scene using all CPU threads simultaneously. This test reveals how AMD Opteron 6386 SE performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. The R15 version remains useful for comparing against older hardware benchmarks. Higher scores directly correlate with faster render times in Cinema 4D and similar 3D applications.
cinebench_cinebench_r15_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R15 single-core measures the speed of one CPU thread rendering 3D geometry. This score indicates how AMD Opteron 6386 SE handles tasks that can't be parallelized across multiple cores. Games and many desktop applications still rely heavily on single-thread performance. A higher single-core score means snappier system responsiveness in everyday use.
cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicoreSource
Cinebench R20 multi-core uses a scene requiring 4x more computational power than R15. This test better reflects modern CPU capabilities for professional rendering on AMD Opteron 6386 SE. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors.
cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R20 single-core tests one thread against a more demanding scene than R15. This reveals the true single-thread rendering capability of AMD Opteron 6386 SE. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicoreSource
Cinebench R23 multi-core is the current standard for CPU rendering benchmarks with a 10-minute minimum runtime. This extended test reveals sustained performance of AMD Opteron 6386 SE after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how AMD Opteron 6386 SE maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance.
About AMD Opteron 6386 SE
The AMD Opteron 6386 SE, launched in late 2012, delivers substantial multi-threaded compute power for its era, driven by its 16 physical cores operating at up to 3.5 GHz. In real-world terms, this processor excels in heavily parallelized workloads such as scientific computations, rendering, and data analysis, where its core count can be fully leveraged. Benchmark results like a Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 7,047 points illustrate its competency in these demanding scenarios, though its single-threaded performance, at 994 points in the same test, shows the generational limitations for lightly-threaded applications. This 32nm "Abu Dhabi" chip is best suited for environments where raw parallel throughput is more critical than per-core responsiveness. Users can expect robust performance in server and workstation tasks that can be efficiently distributed across all available cores.
For workstation use, this 16-core Opteron is a capable performer for specialized professional applications like CAD, finite element analysis, and video encoding. The processor's high thermal design power of 140W necessitates robust system cooling and a capable power supply, which are typical for this class of hardware. Its performance in multi-core benchmarks, such as 2,959 points in Cinebench R20, confirms its positioning as a workhorse for compute-intensive professional suites. When paired with ample RAM and fast storage, this AMD server CPU can form the backbone of a reliable rendering node or development platform. However, its architectural age means it may lack support for newer instruction sets and will be significantly less energy-efficient than modern alternatives.
The value proposition of the Opteron 6386 SE today is primarily for budget-conscious users building dedicated multi-threaded compute servers or upgrading legacy systems. Its original launch price of $1,392 places it as a former high-end part, but its current value is derived from the secondary market where it can offer high core density at a low acquisition cost. Motherboard support is exclusive to the Socket G34 platform, which limits upgrade paths and availability of new motherboards, making it a choice primarily for existing platform upgrades or very specific cost-sensitive builds. This G34 socket processor requires a compatible server or workstation motherboard with adequate power delivery for its 140W TDP. Ultimately, this AMD Socket G34 CPU represents a specific historical point in multi-core processing, offering considerable parallel muscle where modern platform features and single-threaded speed are secondary concerns.
The Intel Equivalent of Opteron 6386 SE
Looking for a similar processor from Intel? The Intel Core i5-3335S offers comparable performance and features in the Intel lineup.
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