The Intel Xeon E5502 was a server/workstation processor with 2 cores, launched in March 2009. It is part of the Xeon lineup, using the Gainestown architecture with Socket 1366. To further increase overall system performance, up to two Xeon E5502 CPUs can link up in a multi-processor (SMP) configuration. Xeon E5502 has 4 MB of L3 cache and operates at 1866 MHz. Intel is building the Xeon E5502 on a 45 nm production process using 731 million transistors. The multiplier is locked on Xeon E5502, which limits its overclocking capabilities.
With a TDP of 80 W, the Xeon E5502 consumes a good deal of power, so decent cooling is needed. Intel's processor supports DDR3 memory with a triple-channel interface. ECC memory is supported, too, which is an important capability for mission-critical systems, to avoid data corruption. For communication with other components in the computer, Xeon E5502 uses a PCI-Express Gen 2 connection. This processor lacks integrated graphics, you might need a graphics card.
Hardware virtualization is available on the Xeon E5502, which greatly improves virtual machine performance.