The Intel Xeon E5503 was a server/workstation processor with 2 cores, launched in March 2010. It is part of the Xeon lineup, using the Gainestown architecture with Socket 1366. To further increase overall system performance, up to two Xeon E5503 CPUs can work together in a multi-processor (SMP) configuration. Xeon E5503 has 4 MB of L3 cache and operates at 2000 MHz. Intel is making the Xeon E5503 on a 45 nm production node using 731 million transistors. The multiplier is locked on Xeon E5503, which limits its overclocking potential.
With a TDP of 80 W, the Xeon E5503 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 system, Xeon E5503 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 E5503, which greatly improves virtual machine performance.