Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 Processor
Specifications
- Specification Details
- Processor Series Intel Xeon E5 v4 Family
- Code Name Broadwell-EP
- Total Cores 14
- Total Threads 28
- Base Clock Speed 2.4 GHz
- Max Turbo Frequency 3.3 GHz
- Cache 35 MB SmartCache
- Bus Speed 9.6 GT/s QPI
- TDP 120 W
- Socket LGA 2011-3 (Socket R3)
- Max Memory Size 1.5 TB (Dependent on motherboard)
- Memory Types DDR4 1600/1866/2133/2400 MHz
- Max Memory Channels 4
- ECC Memory Supported Yes (Required)
- PCI Express Revision 3.0
- Max PCI Express Lanes 40
- Instruction Set 64-bit
- Instruction Extensions AVX 2.0
- Virtualization Technology
- Intel VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT)
- Advanced Technologies
Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, Hyper-Threading Technology, vPro Technology
Product Overview
The Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 processor is a high-performance server/workstation CPU designed for demanding computational tasks. Part of Intel’s Broadwell-EP family, this 14-core processor offers excellent multi-threading performance, making it ideal for virtualization, data analysis, rendering, and other intensive workloads.
Installation Guide
- Warning: Always handle the processor by its edges. Avoid touching the pins on the CPU or socket. Static electricity can damage the processor, so use an anti-static wrist strap when handling components.
Product Usage Instructions
Compatible Components
This processor requires specific server/workstation components and is not compatible with consumer desktop parts.
Recommended Motherboards
- Intel C612 (Server chipset)
- Intel X99 (Workstation chipset) – Note: Not all X99 boards support Xeon processors
Memory Requirements
This processor requires DDR4 Registered ECC memory (RDIMMs):
- Type: DDR4 Registered ECC (RDIMM)
- Speeds: 2133MHz, 2400MHz (native support)
Cooling Solutions
Due to the 120W TDP, a capable cooling solution is required:
- Server-grade air coolers with adequate heatsinks
Power Supply Requirements
Recommended power supply specifications:
- Minimum 600W for single CPU configurations
Other Considerations
- This CPU does not include integrated graphics – a discrete GPU is required
Product Overview
- The Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 processor is a high-performance server/workstation CPU designed for demanding computational tasks. Part of Intel’s Broadwell-EP family, this 14-core processor offers excellent multi-threading performance, making it ideal for virtualization, data analysis, rendering, and other intensive workloads.
Important Note: This is a server/workstation-grade processor that requires specific motherboard chipsets and registered ECC memory. It is not compatible with consumer desktop motherboards.
Compatible Components
Warning: This processor requires specific server/workstation components and is not compatible with consumer desktop parts.
Recommended Motherboards
- Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 requires motherboards with the following chipsets:
Intel C612 (Server chipset)
- Intel X99 (Workstation chipset) – Note: Not all X99 boards support Xeon processors
- Server boards from Supermicro, ASUS, Gigabyte, Tyan, etc.
Popular compatible motherboards include:
- Supermicro X10SRA-F
- ASUS Z10PE-D16 WS
- Gigabyte GA-7PESH3
- ASRock X99 Taichi (with BIOS update)
- Various dual-socket server boards for multi-processor configurations
Memory Requirements
- This processor requires DDR4 Registered ECC memory (RDIMMs):
- Type: DDR4 Registered ECC (RDIMM)
- Speeds: 2133MHz, 2400MHz (native support)
- Recommended configuration: Install in multiples of 4 for optimal performance
- Check the motherboard QVL for compatible memory modules
Cooling Solutions
Due to the 120W TDP, a capable cooling solution is required:
Server-grade air coolers with adequate heatsinks
- Liquid cooling solutions with LGA 2011-3 compatibility
- Ensure proper case airflow for optimal thermal performance
Power Supply Requirements
Recommended power supply specifications:
- Minimum 600W for single CPU configurations
- 800W+ for dual CPU configurations or systems with high-end GPUs
- 80 Plus Gold certification or better is recommended
- Ensure adequate EPS12V connectors (8-pin or dual 8-pin for high-end boards)
Other Considerations
- This CPU does not include integrated graphics – a discrete GPU is required
- Ensure your case supports the form factor of your chosen motherboard (ATX, EATX, SSI-EEB, etc.)
- For multi-processor configurations, ensure both CPUs are identical
Installation Guide
Warning: Always handle the processor by its edges. Avoid touching the pins on the CPU or socket. Static electricity can damage the processor, so use an anti-static wrist strap when handling components.
- Prepare the Motherboard
Place the motherboard on a flat, non-conductive surface. Remove the socket cover if present. - Open the Socket
Lift the socket lever to the fully open position (approximately 135 degrees). Then lift the load plate. - Align the Processor
Hold the processor by its edges and align it with the socket. The CPU has notches and a golden triangle that match indicators on the socket. - Install the Processor
Gently place the processor into the socket. Do not force it – if properly aligned, it should drop into place easily. Do not press down on the CPU. - Close the Socket
Close the load plate, then lower the socket lever and secure it under the retention clip. - Apply Thermal Interface Material
Apply a pea-sized amount of quality thermal paste to the center of the processor’s heat spreader. - Install the Cooler
Align the cooler with the mounting brackets and secure it according to the cooler’s instructions. Connect the cooler’s power cable to the appropriate header on the motherboard. - Install Memory
Install DDR4 Registered ECC memory modules according to your motherboard’s recommended configuration (usually starting with slots farthest from the CPU).
Note: Before powering on the system, ensure that all connections are secure, including power cables to the motherboard and CPU, memory modules are fully seated, and the CPU cooler is properly installed.
Troubleshooting
System Won’t Power On
- Possible causes: Incorrect power connections, faulty power supply, and motherboard compatibility issues.
- Solutions: Check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS), verify PSU functionality, and ensure motherboard compatibility with Xeon E5 v4 processors.
No Display Output
- Possible causes: No discrete graphics card installed, graphics card not properly seated, monitor connected to the wrong port.
- Solutions: Install a discrete graphics card (this CPU has no integrated graphics), reseat the graphics card, and ensure the monitor is connected to the graphics card outputs.
Memory Not Detected or Errors
- Possible causes: Using non-ECC or unbuffered memory, memory not fully seated, incompatible memory.
- Solutions: Ensure you’re using DDR4 Registered ECC memory, reseat memory modules, try different memory slots, and check the motherboard QVL for compatible memory.
BIOS Doesn’t Recognize CPU
- Possible causes: Outdated BIOS, incompatible motherboard.
- Solutions: Update motherboard BIOS to the latest version (may require a compatible CPU for flashing), verify motherboard compatibility with Xeon E5 v4 processors.
System Instability or Overheating
- Possible causes: Inadequate cooling, improper thermal paste application, insufficient power delivery.
- Solutions: Ensure the CPU cooler is properly installed, reapply thermal paste, check temperatures in BIOS, and verify PSU adequacy.
PCIe Devices Not Recognized
- Possible causes: BIOS settings, incompatible devices, insufficient PCIe lanes.
- Solutions: Check BIOS settings for PCIe configuration, try different slots, and ensure devices are compatible with the system.
Note: For dual-processor configurations, ensure both CPUs are identical and that all required power connections are made (additional EPS12V connectors may be required).
Performance Optimization
BIOS Settings
For optimal performance, consider these BIOS settings:
- Enable Turbo Boost Technology
- Enable Hyper-Threading Technology
- Set memory speed to the highest supported frequency (2133MHz or 2400MHz)
- Enable XMP profiles if supported by your memory and motherboard
- Configure power settings for performance (disable power-saving features if maximum performance is desired)
Operating System Configuration
For server/workstation use:
- Use Windows Server or Windows 10/11 Pro for Workstations
- Install the latest chipset drivers from the motherboard manufacturer
- Set the power plan to “High performance”
- For virtualization, enable VT-d in BIOS and install the appropriate hypervisor
Cooling Considerations
To maintain optimal performance:
- Ensure adequate case airflow
- Monitor temperatures using utilities like HWMonitor or Open
Hardware Monitor
- Consider upgrading the cooling solution if temperatures exceed 80 C under load.
FAQs
Q: Can the Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 processor be used with consumer desktop motherboards?
A: No, this processor is not compatible with consumer desktop motherboards as it requires specific server/workstation components.
Documents / Resources
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Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 Processor [pdf] Installation Guide E5-2680 V4, Xeon E5-2680 v4 Processor, Xeon E5-2680 v4, Xeon, Processor |