Intel Core i7-990X Extreme Edition Processor 3.46 GHz 12 MB Cache Socket LGA1366

The Intel Core i7 990X processor Extreme Edition delivers the cutting edge in PC performance. It combines the power of six processing cores running at 3.46 GHz into a single processor, guaranteeing the utmost performance and power for the most demanding applications. With 12 MB of smart cache, the Core i7 990X processor ensures that you get maximum responsiveness from your system, even when running many intensive programs simultaneously. Compatible with motherboards based on the Intel X58 Express chipset, the Core i7 990X processor takes your computing and gaming experience to the next level.

Core i7 990X processor Extreme Edition
At a Glance:

Six 3.46 GHz cores and 12 threads for better performance
12 MB of smart cache
Unlocked core for easy overclocking
Quick Path Interconnect provides fast data transfer between the processor and chipset
Turbo Boost Technology pushes single-core frequency to 3.73 GHz

Take your computing and gaming experience to the next level with the Intel Core i7-990X processor Extreme Edition. View larger.

With 6 cores and 12 computing threads, you'll have smoother, more realistic gameplay.

12 Threads for the Ultimate Gaming Weapon
The Intel Core i7 990X processor Extreme Edition packs six computing cores running at 3.46 GHz to deliver breakthrough performance in gaming and multitasking. The Core i7 990X will not only handle today's complex games, but tomorrow's as well. You'll experience smoother, more realistic gameplay as AI, physics, and rendering are distributed across the six cores and 12 threads. Your 3D gaming will be brought to life without frame-rate hiccups and slowdowns so you can dominate the competition.

Breakaway Performance for Digital Media Creation
Whether editing high-definition videos, touching up family photos, or splicing up music, the Intel Core i7 990X processor Extreme Edition provides the processing power needed. The processor's 12 threads are optimized to keep up with the most advanced digital editing software. It also accelerates DVD encoding and compression, allowing you to easily share your HD movies with everyone. Video transcoding and compression and image rendering are done faster than ever, so you'll never be left waiting for your computer to catch up to your imagination.

Powerful Microarchitecture Eliminates Slowdown
The i7 family is Intel's flagship processor, and for good reason. With the i7 family, Intel engineers invented a revolutionary new style of microarchitecture. They replaced the front side bus--a longtime staple of processor design--with a new technology called QuickPath Interconnect (QPI). Using QPI, the Intel Core i7 990X processor increases bandwidth and lowers latency, while achieving data transfer speeds as high as 25.6 GB/s.

To put it simply, users will enjoy faster and more streamlined processing than ever before. Your computer will handle multiple projects and applications without the slowdown you'd experience with a lesser processor.

New Technologies Boost Performance
The Intel Core i7 990X processor Extreme Edition also makes use of several other cutting-edge technologies:

Turbo Boost Technology allows the processor to automatically boost base clock speed of 3.46GHz to a maximum single-core frequency of 3.73GHz when it's operating below power/thermal limits.
Hyper-Threading Technology enables more efficient use of processor resources by allowing each core to work on two tasks at the same time. This 12 way multi-tasking makes the most of highly threaded software like media players and next-generation games.
Smart Cache Memory increases available RAM resources, leading to less lag while multi-tasking.

Overclocker Friendly¹
Built to be tweaked and pushed to the limits, Intel Core i7 990X processor Extreme Edition features an unlocked core making it easier to overclock. For performance enthusiasts and gamers looking to squeeze every last ounce of performance out of their hardware, Intel DX58SO Extreme Series Desktop Boards provide a stable foundation for a benchmark-shattering system.

¹ Warning: altering clock frequency and/or voltage may (i) reduce system stability and useful life of the system and processor; (ii) cause the processor and other system components to fail; (iii) cause reductions in system performance; (iv) cause additional damage; and (v) affect system data integrity. Intel has not tested, and does not warranty, the operation of the processor beyond its specifications

The Intel Core i7 990X processor Extreme Edition is backed by a three-year limited warranty.

Intel Core i7 Processor Comparison
	Intel Core i7-990X Processor Extreme Edition	Intel Core i7-980X Processor Extreme Edition	Intel Core i7-970 Processor	Intel Core i7-960 Processor
Number of Processing Cores	6	6	6	4
Number of Simultaneous Threads	12 (With Intel HT Technology)	12 (With Intel HT Technology)	12 (With Intel HT Technology)	8 (With Intel HT Technology)
Clock Speed	3.46 GHz	3.33 GHz	3.20 GHz	3.20 GHz
Max Turbo Frequency	3.73 GHz	3.60 GHz	3.46 GHz	3.46 GHz
Intel Smart Cache	12 MB	12 MB	12 MB	8 MB
Max Memory Size	24 GB	24 GB	24 GB	24 GB
Memory Types	DDR3-1066	DDR3-1066	DDR3-800/1066	DDR3-800/1066
Number of DDR3 Memory Channels	3	3	3	3
AES New Instructions	Yes	Yes	Yes	No

Owner Reviews, Ratings, Comments and Criticism
I use the CPU for HD video editing. Very fast and could be faster, if you know how to over clock. I was able to install the CPU with out any problems. I did need to remove the MB, to mount the fan base, so the cooling fan can be installed. Works very well.