Intel

Intel BX80532RC2500B Celeron Processor - 2.5GHz, Socket 478

Name: Intel BX80532RC2500B Celeron Processor - 2.5GHz, Socket 478
Brand: Intel
SKU: BX80532RC2500B

25W

Budget Socket 478 processor for basic computing tasks and legacy system builds.

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Overview

The Intel Celeron BX80532RC2500B is a 2.5 GHz processor based on Intel's NetBurst microarchitecture, originally released as a budget alternative to the Pentium 4. It uses the Socket 478 (mPGA478B) form factor and communicates with the chipset over a 400 MHz front side bus. With just 128KB of L2 cache, it was positioned firmly at the entry level of Intel's lineup, designed for basic computing tasks such as document editing, email, and light web browsing rather than demanding applications or multitasking.

Today, this processor is primarily relevant for users maintaining or restoring legacy systems that require a Socket 478 CPU. Whether it's keeping an older industrial machine running, repairing a vintage PC, or building a period-correct retro system, the Celeron 2.5GHz fills a specific and increasingly hard-to-source gap. The boxed retail version includes Intel's stock heatsink and fan, which provides adequate cooling for the processor's modest thermal output. Prospective buyers should ensure they have a compatible Socket 478 motherboard with a 400 MHz FSB-capable chipset before purchasing.

Key Features

Item Package Dimension: 7.25L x 6.25W x 3.25H inches

Item Package Weight - 1.0 Pounds

Item Package Quantity - 1

Product Type - COMPUTER PROCESSOR

Specifications

Brand

Intel

Model

BX80532RC2500B

Processor Family

Celeron

Clock Speed

2.5 GHz

Front Side Bus

400 MHz

L2 Cache

128KB

Socket Type

Socket 478 (mPGA478B)

Architecture

NetBurst

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

Low power consumption makes it suitable for basic systems that do not need active high-wattage cooling solutions
Boxed retail version includes a heatsink and fan, so no separate cooler purchase is required
Reliable Intel architecture for simple tasks like word processing, web browsing, and email

👎 Cons

Only 128KB of L2 cache severely limits performance compared to Pentium 4 processors of the same era
400 MHz front side bus creates a bottleneck that restricts data throughput between the CPU and memory
Socket 478 platform is long discontinued, making compatible motherboards and DDR memory difficult to source
Not suitable for any modern operating system or software due to its age and limited processing capability

Frequently Asked Questions

What socket type does the Celeron 2.5GHz use?

It uses Socket 478 (mPGA478B), which is compatible with Intel 845 and 865 series chipset motherboards from the early 2000s era.

What is the front side bus speed of this processor?

The BX80532RC2500B operates on a 400 MHz front side bus, which was standard for Celeron processors of this generation.

Does this processor come with a heatsink and fan?

Yes, the boxed (BX) version of this processor includes an Intel-approved heatsink and fan assembly for proper cooling.

Can this processor be overclocked?

The Celeron 2.5GHz has a locked multiplier, limiting overclocking options primarily to front side bus adjustments, which depend on the motherboard's capabilities.