IBM 00KF584 switch module Xeon 18-core 2.3 GHz 45 MB 145 W

Processor module for dense compute

The IBM 00KF584 is a refurbished switch module built around an Intel Xeon E5-2699 v3 processor with 18 cores running at 2.3 GHz and 45 MB of L3 cache. It uses a 22 nm design and fits the FCLGA2011-3 socket with a 9.6 GT/s QPI link. This module targets system integrators upgrading compatible IBM blade or rack platforms that require high core counts in a single socket.

145 W TDP demands robust cooling

At 145 W the chip generates substantial heat under sustained loads, so the host chassis must provide adequate airflow and a heatsink rated for this thermal envelope. Fan speed will rise noticeably during heavy multi-threaded workloads, increasing audible noise in quiet environments. Power draw scales with core utilisation, so idle or light tasks consume considerably less. Buyers without a validated cooling solution should look elsewhere.