Processors (CPUs) & Heatsinks

Dell PowerEdge 2950 Server CPUs & Heatsinks

Dell manufactured three generations of the PowerEdge 2950 server model. It is important to understand the differences between the system boards prior to upgrading or replacing processors. In addition, Dell recommends updating to the most current BIOS prior to installation. When adding a second processor to a system, make sure to select an identical CPU with matching spec code (e.g. SL9RX, SLANU, etc). For help locating and identifying the part number of your system board, see our guide: Dell Part Numbers - Locating and Identifying.

Generation I system boards (motherboards) support Intel Xeon 5000/5100 series dual-core processors only. They will NOT work with any quad-core CPUs like the 5200/5300/5400 series with 6M/8M/12M cache, respectively. Dell PowerEdge 2950 first generation system boards have part numbers like NH278, PR278 and CW954.

Generation II system boards support Intel Xeon 5300 series quad-core processors with 8MB cache and are backwards-compatible with the dual-core 4MB cache 5000/5100 series. If the front of your system chassis is labeled with a "II," your system is likely upgradeable to the quad-core Intel Xeon 5300 processor  series. Part numbers for Dell PowerEdge 2950 II system boards include CU542, NR282, JR815 and DT021.

Generation III system boards added support for Intel Xeon 5400 series quad-core processors with 12MB cache as and Intel Xeon 5200 series dual-core processors with 6MB cache. They are backwards-compatible with quad-core 8MB cache 5300 series processors as well as dual-core 4MB cache 5000/5100 series CPUs. If the front of your system chassis is labeled with a "III," your system is likely upgradeable to the Intel Xeon 5200/5400 series processors. Part numbers for Dell PowerEdge 2950 III system boards include X999R, MX368, M788G, H603H, J250G, M332H, DP246 and G639G.

All generations of the Dell PowerEdge 2950 use the same CPU heatsink.

Unless otherwise noted, all processors have been tested and removed from working servers. Our CPUs are backed by our 90-day parts replacement warranty.

Dell PowerEdge 2950 Processors (CPUs)