Intel Xeon E5620
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Xeon E5620 Specifications
Xeon E5620 Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Xeon E5620 features 4 physical cores and 8 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.
E5620 Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Xeon E5620 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 E5620 by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Xeon E5620 Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the E5620 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 E5620's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Westmere Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Xeon E5620 is built on Intel'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 E5620 incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Westmere Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Xeon E5620 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.
E5620 Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Xeon E5620 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 80W, 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 1366 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Xeon E5620 uses the Intel Socket 1366 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 1366 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the E5620 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 E5620 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 E5620 Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Xeon E5620 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 E5620 by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Xeon E5620 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 E5620 performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. Higher scores mean faster render times in professional applications.
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 E5620.
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 E5620.
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 E5620 after thermal limits kick in.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Xeon E5620 maintains boost clocks under continuous load.
About Intel Xeon E5620
The Intel Xeon E5620, launched in 2010, leverages a 32 nm manufacturing process, a hallmark of Intelβs Westmere-EP architecture. This precision in fabrication allows the E5620 to balance performance and power efficiency, especially for its era. With a 32 nm die, it maintains a 80W TDP while packing four cores and eight threads, making it a compact yet capable workhorse for multitasking scenarios. The process also supports hyper-threading, which the E5620 uses to juggle workloads like game rendering or streaming. Though it lacks the refined 22 nm or 14 nm processes of later CPUs, the E5620βs architecture still holds appeal for retro enthusiasts and budget builders seeking a reliable foundation.
Performance-wise, the E5620 delivers respectable metrics for its age. Cinebench R23 multi-core scores hit 3,077 points, showcasing its ability to handle moderately demanding workloads, while R20 multi-core results of 1,292 points highlight its endurance in older software stacks. Single-core tests like Cinebench R23βs 434 points and R20βs 182 points suggest itβs not the fastest for modern gaming, but paired with sufficient cooling and a compatible X58 motherboard, it can still power 1080p gaming rigs. Gamers seeking raw speed might balk at its 2.40 GHz base clock and 2.67 GHz turbo, but the E5620βs 12 MB shared L3 cache helps mitigate some of these limitations. For retro builds or light-duty gaming, itβs a nostalgic yet practical choice.
When building around the E5620, prioritizing compatibility and cooling is key. The Intel Socket 1366 platform demands a robust X58 motherboard to unlock its full potential, and 1333 MHz RAM is ideal for unclogging bottlenecks. While the E5620 isnβt a high-end option today, its affordability makes it a budget-friendly entry point for entry-level systems or as a secondary CPU for content creation. Pair it with a mid-tier GPU like the GTX 1650 to maximize value, and donβt skimp on a low-noise heatsink its 80W TDP means thermal management is critical. Ultimately, the E5620 remains a testament to Intelβs early server-to-desktop crossover strategy, offering a blend of past and present for those who appreciate hardware history.
The AMD Equivalent of Xeon E5620
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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