In Q2 of 2012, Intel will also update its Xeon processor lineup with a series of new chips based on the high-performance Sandy Bridge-E architecture, it will target dual-socket servers and workstations.
Intel's initial batch of Xeon E5-2400 processors will include no less than 9 new models with four, six or eight computing cores and TDPs ranging from 70 to 95 Watts.
The most basic of the CPUs are the Xeon E5-2403 and E5-2407 and both of these feature a quad-core design, 10MB of Level 3 cache, an 80W thermal envelope and lack support for the Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost technologies.
Both of these technologies are enabled in the upcoming six-core parts, the E5-2420, E5-2430L, E5-2430 and E5-2440, which also get a faster DDR3-1333 memory controller, and 15MB of L3 cache.
The last three of the processors uncovered are the eight-core Xeon E5-2450L, E5-2450 and E5-2470 and all of these come with 20MB of L3 cache and support for DDR3-1600 memory.
Intel's Xeon E5-2400 processors are known under the code name of Sandy Bridge-EN and use a simpler memory controller than the rest of the Sandy Bridge-E processors.
This drops support for one of the four memory channels available to socket LGA-2011 processors and that can only drive up to 2 DIMMs per channel ,meaning that is supports a maximum of 48GB DDR3 per CPU.
The PCI Express controller has also been simplified to integrate and it now packs only 24 PCI-E lanes, compared to the 40 lanes supported by the Xeon E5-2600 CPU family.
As noted earlier, Intel is expected to launch these LGA 1356 chips in the second quarter of 2012, at an yet undisclosed price point.