Chapter 1: Introduction

1-2 Chipset Overview

Built upon the functionality and the capability of the 5000V chipset, the X7DVL-3/ X7DVL-i motherboard provides the performance and feature set required for dual processor-based servers with configuration options optimized for communications, presentation, storage, computation or database applications. The 5000V chipset supports a single or dual Intel Xeon 64-bit Quad Core/Dual Core processor(s) with front side bus speeds of up to 1.333 GHz. The chipset consists of the 5000V Memory Controller Hub (MCH), and the Enterprise South Bridge 2 (ESB2).

The 5000V MCH chipset is designed for symmetric multiprocessing across two independent front side bus interfaces. Each front side bus uses a 64-bit wide, 1333 MHz data bus that transfers data at 10.7 GB/sec. The MCH chipset connects up to six Fully Buffered DIMM modules, providing a total memory size of up to 16 GB. The MCH chipset also provides one x8 PCI-Express interface to the ESB2. In ad- dition, the 5000V chipset offers a wide range of RAS features, including memory interface ECC, x4/x8 Single Device Data Correction, CRC, parity protection, memory mirroring and memory sparing.

The Xeon Quad Core/Dual Core Processor Features

Designed to be used with conjunction of the 5000V chipset, the Xeon Quad Core/ Dual Core Processor provides a feature set as follows:

The Xeon Dual Core Processors

*L1 Cache Size: Instruction Cache (32KB/16KB), Data Cache (32KB/24KB)

*L2 Cache Size: 4MB/2MB (per core)

*Data Bus Transfer Rate: 8.5 GB/s

*Package: FC-LGA6/FC-LGA4, 771 Lands

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SUPER MICRO Computer X7DVL-3 Chipset Overview, Xeon Quad Core/Dual Core Processor Features, Xeon Dual Core Processors

X7DVL-3 specifications

Super Micro Computer, Inc. is a well-respected name in the realm of high-performance computing, offering diverse solutions tailored for various applications. One of the notable offerings from the brand is the Supermicro X7DVL-3 motherboard, designed to provide exceptional performance and reliability for both workstations and servers.

At its core, the X7DVL-3 is built on the Intel 5000X chipset, making it a robust choice for enterprise-level tasks. It supports Intel's dual-core and quad-core Xeon processors, specifically the LGA 771 socket. This design enables users to leverage enhanced processing power, facilitating intensive computational tasks such as virtualization, data analysis, or complex simulations.

One standout feature of the X7DVL-3 is its support for up to 32GB of DDR2 ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory across four DIMM slots. This memory technology ensures higher reliability and stability, reducing the risk of data corruption—a critical factor for enterprises that require consistent performance and uptime.

In terms of connectivity, the motherboard comes equipped with 6 SATA ports, offering flexible storage options for RAID configurations, enhancing both speed and redundancy. Additionally, the X7DVL-3 features dual Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports, which facilitate high-speed network connectivity and allow for dual network path setups, ensuring seamless communication in network-intensive applications.

The X7DVL-3 is also designed with a high degree of scalability in mind. It includes multiple PCI-E slots, thereby supporting a range of expansion cards, including graphics cards for visualization tasks or additional networking options. This adaptability is crucial for organizations that need to upgrade or modify their systems as their operational demands evolve.

Another notable aspect of the Supermicro X7DVL-3 is its emphasis on efficiency and management. The motherboard is equipped with Supermicro’s IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface) technology, allowing for remote management and monitoring of system health. This feature is particularly valuable in data center environments where managing multiple servers efficiently can lead to significant operational cost reductions.

In summary, the Supermicro X7DVL-3 motherboard stands out with its robust architecture, support for powerful Intel Xeon processors, extensive memory capacity, and advanced connectivity features. Coupled with its emphasis on reliability and manageability, this motherboard represents a solid choice for businesses seeking a dependable solution for their computing needs. Whether in a server configuration or a high-performance workstation, the X7DVL-3 delivers the performance and scalability critical for modern enterprises.