Intel Xeon D-1540
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Xeon D-1540 Specifications
Xeon D-1540 Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Xeon D-1540 features 8 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.
D-1540 Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Xeon D-1540 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 D-1540 by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Xeon D-1540 Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the D-1540 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 D-1540's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Broadwell Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Xeon D-1540 is built on Intel's 14 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 D-1540 incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Broadwell Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Xeon D-1540 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.
D-1540 Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Xeon D-1540 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 45W, 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 BGA 1667 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Xeon D-1540 uses the Intel BGA 1667 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 BGA 1667 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the D-1540 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 D-1540 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.
Xeon D-1540 Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Xeon D-1540 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 D-1540 by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Xeon D-1540 Benchmark Scores
cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicoreSource
Cinebench R15 multi-core renders a complex 3D scene using all CPU threads simultaneously. This test reveals how Intel Xeon D-1540 performs in parallel rendering workloads.
cinebench_cinebench_r15_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R15 single-core measures the speed of one CPU thread rendering 3D geometry. This score indicates how Intel Xeon D-1540 handles tasks that can't be parallelized.
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 Intel Xeon D-1540. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors. Content creators and 3D artists use this benchmark to estimate real-world render performance.
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 Intel Xeon D-1540. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs. Single-thread performance remains critical for gaming and applications with serial bottlenecks.
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 Intel Xeon D-1540 after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss. Professional users rely on R23 scores to predict real-world rendering performance under sustained workloads.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Xeon D-1540 maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance. This score is particularly important for understanding real-world responsiveness beyond initial boost behavior.
About Intel Xeon D-1540
Intel Xeon D-1540: 8-Core Server CPU for Dense Workloads
The Intel Xeon D-1540 is part of the Xeon D family, built on the Broadwell-DE architecture with a 14nm process. Featuring 8 cores and 16 threads, this processor delivers balanced performance for multi-threaded workloads while maintaining a 45W TDP for energy efficiency. Its per-core 1.5 MB L3 cache ensures low-latency access to frequently used data, and the base clock of 2.0 GHz scales up to 2.6 GHz via Turbo Boost. Released in March 2015, the Intel D-1540 targets dense, scalable computing environments where thermal constraints are critical. The BGA 1667 socket design optimizes space, making it ideal for embedded systems and high-density servers.
Benchmark results highlight the Intel D-1540βs strengths in parallel processing. In Cinebench R23, it scores 8,531 multi-core points, while R20 multi-core performance reaches 3,583. Single-core performance, at 1,204 points in R23 and 505 in R20, remains competitive for legacy applications. Though not a flagship performer, the Intel D-1540 excels in environments where 8 cores and 16 threads suffice for tasks like virtualization, light rendering, or data analysis. Its 45W TDP ensures stable operation in passively cooled or space-constrained systems, making it a reliable choice for mid-tier workloads.
Positioned in the embedded and entry-level server market, the Intel D-1540 competes with similarly efficient processors for compact systems. Its low power consumption and 8-core configuration suit applications such as network appliances, storage controllers, and small business servers. While lacking advanced features like PCIe 4.0 or large-scale cache found in newer Xeons, it remains cost-effective for workloads that donβt demand cutting-edge performance. The $581 launch price (2015) reflects its value proposition for systems prioritizing density over raw throughput. Modern alternatives may offer better IPC, but the Intel D-1540 endures in legacy deployments.
For optimal performance with the Intel D-1540, pair it with compatible components tailored to its design. Use ECC memory to enhance reliability in server environments, and select storage with low latency to avoid bottlenecks. A passive or low-profile cooling solution is recommended to manage the 45W TDP effectively. Key recommendations include:
- Match with a BGA 1667-compatible motherboard for embedded systems
- Deploy in 1U or 2U servers for virtualization or NAS roles
- Combine with NVMe SSDs for fast data access in multi-threaded tasks
The AMD Equivalent of Xeon D-1540
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
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