The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550S was a desktop processor with 4 cores, launched in January 2009. It is part of the Core 2 Quad lineup, using the Yorkfield architecture with Socket 775. Core 2 Quad Q9550S has 12 MB of L2 cache and operates at 2.833 GHz. Intel is building the Core 2 Quad Q9550S on a 45 nm production process using 820 million transistors. The multiplier is locked on Core 2 Quad Q9550S, which limits its overclocking capabilities. With a TDP of 65 W, the Core 2 Quad Q9550S consumes typical power levels for a modern PC. Intel's processor supports DDR1, DDR2 and DDR3 memory with a dual-channel interface. For communication with other components in the computer, Core 2 Quad Q9550S 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 Quad Q9550S, which greatly improves virtual machine performance.