The Dual Core Xeon E5502 processor delivers impressive performance -- up to 2 times the that of earlier generation single-core processors. Each of the cores has L1 and L2 caches, with an additional 4MB of L3 cache available to be shared to bear really heavy loads or large data sets. The 64bit cores are designed to handle all of today’s x86 32bit software with ease and effortlessly migrate to 64bit software.
You also get Intel Virtualization Technology hardware enhancements that support software based virtualization. It works with VMware, Virtual PC and XenSource and products from an increasing number of software vendors. Combine these with the processor’s great power efficiencies and you can run virtual environments on blade systems with fewer cooling challenges which gives you maximum power and services per square foot of server space.
- Dual-core Processing with Enhanced Smart CacheThe Intel Xeon E5502 processor features two complete processor cores in one physical package. Significant performance headroom, especially for multi-threaded applications, helps boost system utilization through virtualization and application responsiveness. Its 2 x 256KB L2 cache and 4MB shared L3 cache with Enhanced Smart Cache technology minimize data latency and improve performance.
- Supports Intel Virtualization Technology (Intel VT)With Intel VT, one hardware platform functions as multiple “virtual” platforms. For business, Intel VT offers improved manageability, limiting downtime and maintaining worker productivity by isolating computing activities into separate partitions. In the home, Intel VT allows creating unique user environments for multiple family members using the same platform simultaneously.
- Intel Extended Memory 64 Technology (Intel EM64T)Enhances next-generation IA-32 platforms with 64-bit addressability and related instructions, allowing flexibility for both 64-bit and 32-bit applications and operating systems.
- Execute Disable Bit (EDB)Intel's Execute Disable Bit function can prevent certain classes of malicious "buffer overflow" attacks when combined with a supporting operating system. Execute Disable Bit allows the processor to classify areas in memory where application code can execute and where it cannot. When a malicious worm attempts to insert code in the buffer, the processor disables code execution, preventing damage or worm propagation.
- Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST)EIST allows the system to dynamically adjust processor voltage and core frequency to decrease average power consumption and average heat production. Combined with existing power saving features, EIST may provide an excellent balance between providing power when you need it and conserving power when you don’t.