Socket Geek

AMD A4-9120 SoC socket: Socket FT4

The AMD A4-9120 SoC uses Socket FT4 as a soldered BGA package. It cannot be replaced, so the entry laptop board fixes its two cores and Radeon R3 graphics for life.

Launched
April 2017
Cores and threads
2 and 2
Default TDP
15 W
Codename
Stoney Ridge
Segment
Mobile (soldered)
Family
AMD A4
Clocks
2.2 / 2.5 GHz

AMD A4-9120 SoC specifications

Cores2
Threads2
Core architectureExcavator (Stoney Ridge)
Clocks2.2 GHz base, up to 2.5 GHz boost
Cache1 MB L2 (shared, no L3)
Processor base power (TDP)15 W
Manufacturing process28 nm
Memory supportDDR4-2133, single channel
PCI ExpressPCIe 3.0, 8 lanes from the APU
Integrated graphicsRadeon R3 (2 CU, up to 655 MHz)
MultiplierLocked
PackageFT4 BGA (soldered)

Motherboard compatibility

AMD A4-9120 SoC needs a motherboard with a Socket FT4 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the Socket FT4 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.

Socket FT4 at a glance

TypeBGA, 769 contacts
Package size24.5 × 24.5 mm
Introduced2016
MemoryDDR4-2133, single channel
Cooler mounting holesNot applicable (soldered)

Read the full Socket FT4 socket guide

What the A4-9120 SoC is

The A4-9120 SoC is a dual core, dual thread mobile processor with a 2.2 GHz base and up to 2.5 GHz boost. It carries 1 MB of shared L2 cache with no L3 and a 15 W TDP on the 28 nm process. The database lists configurable TDP down to 10 W.

One Excavator module gives two integer cores without multithreading for browsing and documents. Radeon R3 graphics with 2 compute units up to 655 MHz drive basic displays. One database page mislabels the graphics as R2, against R3 in the database, CPU-Z and the R3 variant list, so this page follows R3.

Memory runs as DDR4-2133 in a single channel. The chip is soldered in the FT4 BGA package.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The A4-9120 is soldered to the board in the Socket FT4 package and cannot be replaced. Upgrading means replacing the board or the whole laptop, so buyers should choose memory size at order time. The database names Socket FT4 directly.

Boards pair it with basic cooling tuned for 15 W classroom loads. One memory slot is the common layout for single channel designs. The LGA, PGA and BGA: CPU package types explained guide explains soldered package trade offs.

There is no socket retention or aftermarket mounting choice. Service follows the laptop maker manual. Notebookcheck lists it for mid 2017 laptops, matching the database date.

Memory, PCIe and cooling

Memory support covers DDR4-2133 in one channel. One DIMM gives full speed here, with a second stick adding capacity only. Most shipping laptops solder 4 GB for cost reasons.

PCI Express arrives as version 3.0 with 8 lanes from the APU for Wi-Fi and storage. There is no cooler to swap, so thermal design stays with the maker.

Upgrade paths

There is no CPU upgrade path on FT4. The only moves are a larger drive where the slot allows it or a whole laptop replacement. Buyers who need more than browsing should step to dual channel parts instead.

Staying on this board, a clean OS install helps more than chasing clocks. The locked multiplier removes overclocking as a tuning option.

Frequently asked questions

What socket does the A4-9120 SoC use?

It uses Socket FT4 as a soldered BGA package. The chip cannot be replaced.

How many cores does the A4-9120 have?

Two cores and two threads at 2.2 GHz base with up to 2.5 GHz boost. No multithreading on this die.

Which graphics does the A4-9120 include?

Radeon R3 with 2 compute units up to 655 MHz. One page mislabels it R2, against R3 elsewhere.

What memory does the A4-9120 support?

DDR4-2133 in a single channel. Most laptops solder 4 GB.

Can the A4-9120 be replaced or upgraded?

No. The processor is soldered to the board.

Sources and verification

  1. AMD A4-9120 SoC specs (TechPowerUp CPU database)
  2. AMD A4-9120 SoC benchmarks and specs (Notebookcheck)

Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .