INTEL

Intel Xeon 7120M

Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores

2
Cores
4
Threads
GHz Boost
95W
TDP
🛡️ECC Memory

Intel Xeon 7120M Specifications

⚙️

Xeon 7120M Core Configuration

Processing cores and threading

The Intel Xeon 7120M features 2 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.

Cores
2
Threads
4
SMP CPUs
4
⏱️

7120M Clock Speeds

Base and boost frequencies

Clock speed is a critical factor in Xeon 7120M 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 Xeon 7120M by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.

Base Clock
3 GHz
Boost Clock
N/A
Multiplier
15x
💾

Intel's Xeon 7120M Cache Hierarchy

L1, L2, L3 cache sizes

Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the 7120M 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 Xeon 7120M's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.

L2 Cache
1 MB
L3 Cache
4 MB
🏗️

NetBurst Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The Intel Xeon 7120M is built on Intel's 65 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 7120M incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.

Architecture
NetBurst
Codename
Tulsa
Process Node
65 nm
Foundry
Intel
Transistors
1,328 million
Die Size
435 mm²
Generation
Xeon (Tulsa)
🔢

NetBurst Instruction Set Features

Supported CPU instructions and extensions

The Xeon 7120M 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.

MMX
SSE
SSE2
SSE3
Intel 64
VT-x
🔌

7120M Power & Thermal

TDP and power specifications

The Intel Xeon 7120M has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95W, 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
95W
🔧

Intel Socket 604 Platform & Socket

Compatibility information

The Xeon 7120M uses the Intel Socket 604 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
Intel Socket 604
Package
FC-PGA6
DDR5

Intel Socket 604 Memory Support

RAM compatibility and speeds

Memory support specifications for the 7120M 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 Xeon 7120M 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 Type
DDR2
ECC Memory
Supported
📦

Xeon 7120M Product Information

Release and pricing details

The Intel Xeon 7120M 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 Xeon 7120M by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.

Manufacturer
Intel
Release Date
Aug 2006
Launch Price
$1177
Market
Server/Workstation
Status
End-of-life
Part Number
SL9HC

Xeon 7120M Benchmark Scores

📊

No benchmark data available for this CPU.

About Intel Xeon 7120M

The Intel Xeon 7120M was launched back in 2006 as a dual‑core workhorse built on a 65 nm process. With a base clock of 3.0 GHz and a 95 W TDP, it delivers solid single‑thread performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, office suites, and media playback. Its 4 MB L3 cache helps keep the cores fed, meaning multitasking feels snappy even with four threads active. Because it’s a server‑grade Xeon, you get ECC memory support, which translates to extra stability for long‑running workloads. On modern operating systems the chip still holds its own, though you’ll notice the occasional lag when you push beyond its two cores. For a gamer who also streams or runs background recording software, the Xeon 7120M can handle the mix without choking the system.

When it comes to raw gaming horsepower, the 7120M chip isn’t a beast, but it can run older titles at respectable frame rates. Its 3 GHz clock pushes classic DirectX 9 and early DirectX 10 games into the 60 FPS sweet spot at 1080p on modest GPUs. Modern AAA releases, however, demand more cores and higher boost frequencies, so expect to dial down settings or lower resolution. The lack of integrated graphics means you’ll pair it with a dedicated video card, which is where the Xeon’s strong memory controller shines, feeding the GPU with clean data. Benchmarks from the era show the 7120M scoring around 4,000 points in CPU‑centric tests, a respectable number for its class. For gamers who love retro or indie titles, this processor offers a stable platform that won’t bottleneck a mid‑range graphics card.

Priced at $1,177 at launch, the Intel’s 7120M processor sits at a premium spot, but its server‑grade features justify the cost for prosumer builds. Today you can find it on the secondary market for a fraction of that price, making it a cost‑effective upgrade for legacy workstations or budget gaming rigs. It fits into the Intel Socket 604, a socket that was common on dual‑processor boards, so you’ll need a motherboard that explicitly lists support for Xeon 7100 series. Look for boards with DDR2 ECC memory slots and a robust VRM design to keep the 95 W chip cool under load. Many of these boards also include extra PCI‑Express lanes, which is a boon if you plan to add multiple GPUs or high‑speed storage. Overall, the 7120M offers a solid blend of reliability and performance for a modest investment, especially if you already own compatible hardware.

  1. Day‑to‑day multitasking and productivity workloads.
  2. Retro and indie gaming performance.
  3. Value proposition on the used market.
  4. Motherboard and socket compatibility (Socket 604).

The AMD Equivalent of Xeon 7120M

Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.

AMD Ryzen 5 1400

AMD • 4 Cores

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