The Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 was a desktop processor with 4 cores, launched in March 2008. It is part of the Core 2 Extreme lineup, using the Yorkfield XE architecture with Socket 775. Core 2 Extreme QX9770 has 12 MB of L2 cache and operates at 3.2 GHz. Intel is building the Core 2 Extreme QX9770 on a 45 nm production process using 820 million transistors. You may freely adjust the unlocked multiplier on Core 2 Extreme QX9770, which simplifies overclocking greatly, as you can easily dial in any overclocking frequency. With a TDP of 136 W, the Core 2 Extreme QX9770 consumes a lot of power, so good cooling is definitely needed. Intel's processor supports DDR1, DDR2 and DDR3 memory with a dual-channel interface. For communication with other components in the computer, Core 2 Extreme QX9770 uses a PCI-Express Gen 2 connection. Although the processor doesn't come with integrated graphics, certain motherboards with compatible chipsets can provide this capability. Hardware virtualization is available on the Core 2 Extreme QX9770, which greatly improves virtual machine performance.
This processor comes with an unlocked FSB multiplier, allowing users to set the multiplier value higher than shipped value, to facilitate better overclocking. It is branded under the Extreme Edition label.