Intel Atom N2600 socket: BGA 559
The Intel Atom N2600 uses the BGA 559 package. It is a soldered 3.5 W dual core Cedarview part at 1.6 GHz for netbooks.
- Socket
- BGA 559
- Launched
- December 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 3.5 W
- Codename
- Cedarview
- Segment
- Mobile (soldered)
- Family
- Intel Atom
- Clocks
- 1.6 GHz
Intel Atom N2600 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Cedarview cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 1.6 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 1 MB L2 (2 × 512 KB) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 3.5 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-800, single channel |
| PCI Express | PCIe lanes vary by board design (NM10 chipset) |
| Integrated graphics | Intel GMA 3600 (400 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCBGA559 (soldered) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Atom N2600 needs a motherboard with a BGA 559 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the BGA 559 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
BGA 559 at a glance
| Type | BGA, 559 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 22 × 22 mm |
| Introduced | December 2009 |
| Memory | DDR2-800 and DDR3-800 to 1066, single channel |
| Cooler mounting holes | Not applicable (soldered) |
What the Atom N2600 is
Intel Atom N2600 is a dual core Cedarview mobile processor that Intel released in December 2011 for netbooks with soldered boards. It uses the Saltwell core design on a 32 nm process, running at 1.6 GHz with no turbo. The cache is 1 MB of L2 with 512 KB per core, and Hyper-Threading turns two cores into 4 threads. Power is 3.5 W per ARK, against 4 W in some database listings. Graphics come from Intel GMA 3600 based on PowerVR SGX545 at a fixed 400 MHz.
Two threads per core stretch the small in order design across browsing and video playback while sipping power. The single die integrates cores, graphics and a single channel DDR3 controller for small cheap boards. Threads total 4 from 2 cores.
At 3.5 W the N2600 belongs to the lowest power Cedarview group for fanless netbooks. Boards pair it with 1 GB to 2 GB of DDR3 and small drives. The LGA, PGA and BGA: CPU package types explained guide explains why this soldered BGA part cannot be serviced.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Atom N2600 solders to BGA 559 with 559 balls and cannot be moved to another board. Netbook makers qualify each model with a fixed board and BIOS, so another Atom part is not a field swap. Package size is not published on the N series ARK pages, so none is claimed here.
The board BIOS must list the exact Atom N2600 string. Power delivery at 3.5 W is trivial, so screen and battery decide the buy. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide notes soldered parts have no desktop mount.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-800, single channel. The single 64 bit channel feeds cores and graphics together, with small maximum sizes around 2 GB on netbook boards. Soldered options lock size at purchase.
PCI Express follows the NM10 chipset with board specific wiring to Wi-Fi and storage. Lane counts vary by board, so no per CPU lane claim is made here.
Cooling uses a spreader sized for 3.5 W, often fanless. Fixed clocks need little airflow.
Upgrade paths
There is no CPU upgrade path on soldered BGA 559. The Atom N2600 cannot be removed, so a faster netbook means a new board or a new device. A faster dual core comparison on the same package is the Atom N2800 class.
A platform move means a new low power laptop on a current BGA package. Recycle the old netbook after wiping the drive.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Atom N2600 use?
It uses BGA 559, called FCBGA559 in ARK. The chip cannot be removed.
Is the Atom N2600 3.5 W or 4 W?
3.5 W per ARK. Some database listings round to 4 W.
What memory does the Atom N2600 use?
DDR3-800, single channel, with small maximum sizes on netbook boards.
Can the Atom N2600 be upgraded?
No. Soldered BGA parts need a board or device replacement for more speed.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .