Intel Xeon L5408
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Xeon L5408 Specifications
Xeon L5408 Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Xeon L5408 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.
L5408 Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Xeon L5408 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 L5408 by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Xeon L5408 Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the L5408 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 L5408'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 Xeon L5408 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 L5408 incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Core 2 Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Xeon L5408 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.
L5408 Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Xeon L5408 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 40W, 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 771 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Xeon L5408 uses the Intel Socket 771 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 771 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the L5408 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 L5408 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 L5408 Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Xeon L5408 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 L5408 by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Xeon L5408 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 L5408 performs in parallel rendering workloads.
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 L5408. 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 L5408. 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 L5408 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 L5408 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 L5408
For those seeking an energy-efficient workhorse from Intel's heritage lineup, the Xeon L5408 processor offers a compelling blend of quad-core capability with a remarkably low 40W TDP. This Harpertown-era CPU, built on a 45nm process, provides a solid foundation for day-to-day computing tasks like web browsing, office applications, and media playback with its 2.13 GHz base clock. While its single-threaded performance may feel dated, scoring 212 points in Cinebench R23 single-core, the four physical cores ensure smooth multitasking for basic workflows. This vintage Xeon chip is best suited for light server roles or as a budget-friendly upgrade for older systems, where its low power draw is a significant advantage. It handles everyday productivity without fuss, though demanding modern applications will reveal its age.
When evaluating this processor for workstation use, the Intel Xeon L5408 demonstrates its multi-core strength in synthetic benchmarks, achieving 1,503 points in Cinebench R23 multicore. However, professionals should note that its architectural limitations become apparent with intensive software; the 4 threads and lack of modern instruction sets hinder performance in current rendering or virtualization tasks. This particular Xeon model finds its niche in legacy environments, supporting specialized equipment or acting as a reliable node in a lightweight computational cluster. For non-critical, batch-oriented workloads that can leverage its quad-core design, this CPU can still contribute effectively. It is a component that prioritizes stability and power efficiency over raw speed.
- Quad-core design for handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Exceptional 40W TDP for reduced energy consumption and heat output.
- Socket 771 compatibility, ideal for specific server and workstation boards.
- Respectable multi-core benchmark scores for its generation and power envelope.
- A cost-effective solution for breathing new life into compatible older systems.
- Proven reliability from Intel's Xeon brand for sustained operation.
The price-to-performance ratio of the Harpertown L5408 is its main appeal today, positioning this CPU as an economical choice for specific upgrade paths. On the secondary market, this Intel Xeon L5408 can be a steal for users with a Socket 771 motherboard looking to maximize core count without a full platform overhaul. Platform requirements are a key consideration, as this processor necessitates compatible DDR2 memory and a motherboard with the appropriate chipset, which may be challenging to source. For the right user with existing compatible hardware, the L5408 delivers competent multi-threaded performance per dollar, far outstripping older dual-core options. Ultimately, this processor's value is highly contextual, offering excellent returns in legacy systems but representing a technological dead-end for new builds.
The AMD Equivalent of Xeon L5408
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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