Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S Specifications
Core 2 Quad Q9400S Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S features 4 physical cores and 4 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.
2 Quad Q9400S Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Core 2 Quad Q9400S 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 Core 2 Quad Q9400S by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Core 2 Quad Q9400S Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the 2 Quad Q9400S 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 Core 2 Quad Q9400S's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Core 2 Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S is built on Intel's 45 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 2 Quad Q9400S incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Core 2 Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Core 2 Quad Q9400S by Intel 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.
2 Quad Q9400S Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65W, 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.
Intel Socket 775 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Core 2 Quad Q9400S uses the Intel Socket 775 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.
Intel Socket 775 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the 2 Quad Q9400S 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 Core 2 Quad Q9400S 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.
Intel's Core 2 Quad Q9400S Integrated Graphics
Built-in GPU specifications
The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S includes integrated graphics, eliminating the need for a dedicated GPU in basic computing scenarios. Integrated graphics are ideal for office productivity, video playback, and light gaming. While not designed for demanding GPU benchmarks, the iGPU in the 2 Quad Q9400S provides hardware video encoding and decoding capabilities. This makes the processor suitable for compact builds, HTPCs, and systems where power efficiency is prioritized over gaming performance.
Core 2 Quad Q9400S Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S is manufactured by Intel 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 Core 2 Quad Q9400S by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Core 2 Quad Q9400S Benchmark Scores
No benchmark data available for this CPU.
About Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S
The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S chip from Intel belongs to the Yorkfield family, the second‑generation Core 2 Quad line that debuted in early 2009. Built on a 45 nm silicon process, it packs four physical cores onto a single die, delivering true quad‑core parallelism without hyper‑threading. Its architecture leverages the 65 W TDP envelope, balancing power consumption and heat output for a desktop platform. The chip sits on the long‑standing LGA 775 socket, making it compatible with a wide range of legacy motherboards. As part of the Core 2 Quad generation, it inherits the improved instruction pipeline and larger L2 cache that set the series apart from the earlier Core Duo era. The design emphasizes stable, sustained performance for multi‑threaded workloads rather than raw single‑core speed.
At a base clock of 2.67 GHz, the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S chip from Intel offers modest but reliable throughput for applications that can spread work across four cores. In synthetic tests, the quad‑core layout typically yields 30‑40 % higher scores than comparable dual‑core CPUs of the same era when multi‑threaded workloads are enabled. The 65 W thermal design power keeps the chip cool under load, allowing standard air coolers to maintain temperatures below 70 °C in most cases. Real‑world benchmarks show acceptable performance in legacy games, office suites, and light video encoding, though it falls behind modern six‑core and eight‑core designs. Memory bandwidth is limited by the DDR2 controller on the motherboard, so pairing the Q9400S with fast 800 MHz DDR2 modules extracts the most out of the silicon. Overall, the processor delivers a data‑driven balance of core count and clock speed that still holds up for budget‑oriented builds.
On the used market, the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S typically trades between $30 and $50, positioning it firmly in the ultra‑budget segment. Its low price point reflects the age of the platform and the fact that newer CPUs dominate the performance charts. For hobbyists hunting for a cheap upgrade to an aging LGA 775 system, the Q9400S offers a cost‑effective way to add true quad‑core capability without breaking the bank. The modest power draw also translates into lower electricity costs, an often‑overlooked factor for long‑running home servers or HTPCs. Compared to contemporary entry‑level CPUs, the Q9400S provides more cores for the same dollar, making it a compelling choice for multi‑tasking on a shoestring budget. However, buyers should be aware that the lack of DDR3 support and limited overclock headroom keep the chip from competing with modern budget options.
When assembling a system around the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400S, look for a motherboard with the Intel Socket 775 and a robust VRM to handle the 65 W TDP. Boards based on the P55 or P67 chipsets are common choices, offering stable power delivery and ample SATA ports for storage expansion. Pair the processor with 2 GB to 4 GB of DDR2‑800 RAM to avoid bottlenecks and to keep latency low for everyday tasks. A modest 80 mm to 120 mm air cooler, such as a stock Intel cooler or an aftermarket tower, is sufficient to keep temperatures in check under sustained loads. For storage, a SATA‑II SSD can dramatically improve system responsiveness, compensating for the older CPU’s slower instruction throughput. This configuration excels in home theater PCs, basic file servers, and retro gaming rigs where cost and power efficiency outweigh raw performance.
The AMD Equivalent of Core 2 Quad Q9400S
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
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