The processors designed to utilize a 942-pin interface belong to AMD's FX, Phenom II, Athlon II, and Sempron families. These processors are compatible with the AM3+ socket, which features 942 pins, facilitating communication and power delivery between the CPU and the motherboard.
Understanding the 942-Pin Interface
The number of pins on a processor or its corresponding socket is a critical specification, as it determines compatibility with motherboards. A 942-pin configuration specifically refers to the AM3+ socket, which was developed by AMD.
Key characteristics:
- Socket Type: AM3+
- Pin Count: 942 pins
- Purpose: Designed for desktop CPUs, offering an upgrade path for previous AM3 users while supporting newer processors.
Processors Compatible with the 942-Pin AM3+ Socket
The AM3+ socket was primarily used for a range of AMD processors, including:
- AMD FX Processors: These were high-performance desktop CPUs, notably the "Bulldozer" and "Piledriver" architectures, targeting enthusiasts and gamers.
- AMD Phenom II Processors: Earlier quad-core and six-core processors that continued to be supported by the AM3+ platform, offering solid performance for their time.
- AMD Athlon II Processors: Budget-friendly dual-core, triple-core, and quad-core options, providing a cost-effective solution for general computing tasks.
- AMD Sempron Processors: Entry-level processors designed for basic computing needs, often found in less demanding desktop systems.
These processor families leverage the 942-pin layout of the AM3+ socket for their power and data connections, making them distinct from other AMD or Intel socket types with different pin counts.
Overview of AMD Desktop Sockets and Pin Counts
To put the 942-pin AM3+ socket into context, here's a brief comparison with other related AMD desktop CPU sockets:
| Socket | Pin Count | Compatible Processors |
|---|---|---|
| AM3 | 940-pin | AMD Phenom II X3, X4, and Athlon II |
| AM3+ | 942-pin | AMD FX, Phenom II, Athlon II, Sempron |
| FM1 | 905-pin | AMD Athlon II, Llano (APUs) |
| FM2 | 904-pin | AMD APUs (Trinity, Richland) |
This table highlights that while AM3 and AM3+ sockets are similar in pin count, the AM3+ socket provides enhanced power delivery and features, making it backward compatible with many AM3 processors while supporting newer FX series CPUs.
