Intel

Intel BX80602E5530 Xeon E5530 - 2.4GHz LGA 1366 Quad-Core Processor

Quad-core Xeon server processor with 8MB cache and 5.86 GT/s QPI for reliable enterprise workloads.

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Overview

The Intel Xeon E5530 is a quad-core server processor built on the Nehalem microarchitecture, designed for the LGA 1366 platform. Running at a base clock of 2.4GHz with 8MB of shared L3 cache, it is capable of handling multi-threaded server workloads including virtualization, database management, and general-purpose computing tasks. Hyper-Threading Technology allows each core to handle two threads simultaneously, giving the operating system access to eight logical processors for improved task scheduling and throughput under concurrent loads.

The processor's 5.86 GT/s QuickPath Interconnect provides the communication backbone for dual-socket server configurations, enabling two E5530 chips to share workloads across a single motherboard. With a thermal design power of 80W, it remains practical for rack-deployed environments where power and cooling budgets are a consideration. While the E5530 is no longer a current-generation part, it continues to serve as a reliable and cost-effective option for maintaining or building out legacy LGA 1366 server infrastructure.

Specifications

Brand
Intel
Model
BX80602E5530
Processor
Xeon E5530
Core Count
4 (Quad-Core)
Thread Count
8 (Hyper-Threading)
Clock Speed
2.4GHz
Cache
8MB L3
QPI Speed
5.86 GT/s
Socket Type
LGA 1366

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Quad-core design with hyper-threading provides eight threads for multi-threaded server applications.
  • 8MB L3 cache helps reduce memory access latency for data-intensive operations.
  • 5.86 GT/s QPI supports efficient communication in dual-socket configurations.
  • 80W TDP keeps power consumption manageable for rack-mounted server environments.
  • LGA 1366 compatibility allows use in a wide range of existing server motherboards.

👎 Cons

  • Based on the older Nehalem microarchitecture, offering significantly lower performance per watt than modern Xeon processors.
  • 2.4GHz base clock is modest by current standards and may bottleneck single-threaded tasks.
  • LGA 1366 platform is end-of-life with no upgrade path to newer processor generations.
  • Does not support DDR4 memory, limited to DDR3 which constrains maximum memory bandwidth.

Frequently Asked Questions

The E5530 uses the LGA 1366 socket, which is found on server and workstation motherboards from that generation such as those using Intel's 5500-series chipsets.
Yes. The quad-core E5530 supports Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, presenting eight threads to the operating system for improved multitasking in threaded workloads.
The E5530 has a QPI (QuickPath Interconnect) speed of 5.86 GT/s, which determines how fast the processor communicates with other CPUs and the chipset in multi-socket server configurations.
The E5530 is rated at 80W TDP based on Intel's published specifications for the Nehalem-EP platform.
Yes. The Xeon E5530 is designed for single- and dual-socket server platforms using the LGA 1366 interface.