Intel Atom Z650 socket: BGA 518
The Intel Atom Z650 uses the BGA 518 package. It is a soldered 3 W single core Lincroft part at 1.2 GHz with Hyper-Threading for tablets.
- Socket
- BGA 518
- Launched
- April 2011
- Cores and threads
- 1 and 2
- Base power
- 3 W
- Codename
- Lincroft
- Segment
- Mobile (soldered)
- Family
- Intel Atom
- Clocks
- 1.2 GHz
Intel Atom Z650 specifications
| Cores | 1 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Lincroft cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 1.2 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 512 KB L2 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 3 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR2-800, single channel |
| PCI Express | No PCIe from the CPU (board I/O from the companion chip) |
| Integrated graphics | Intel GMA 600 (400 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | T-PBGA518 (13.8 × 13.8 mm, soldered) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Atom Z650 needs a motherboard with a BGA 518 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the BGA 518 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
BGA 518 at a glance
| Type | BGA, 518 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 13.8 × 13.8 mm |
| Introduced | May 2010 |
| Memory | DDR2-800, single channel |
| Cooler mounting holes | Not applicable (soldered) |
What the Atom Z650 is
Intel Atom Z650 is a single core Lincroft tablet processor that Intel released in April 2011 for Oak Trail tablets with soldered boards. It uses the Bonnell core design on a 45 nm process, running at 1.2 GHz with no turbo. The cache is 512 KB of L2, and Hyper-Threading turns the single core into 2 threads per ARK, against 1 thread in some database listings. Power is 3 W. Graphics come from Intel GMA 600 at a fixed 400 MHz, with the name confirmed by Notebookcheck and the Intel wafer manual.
One threaded core with tablet graphics covers browsing and video playback in early tablets while sipping power. The single die integrates the core, graphics and a single channel DDR2-800 controller for up to 2 GB. An SM35 companion chip hangs off a dedicated link for USB, SATA, display and audio, since the CPU offers no PCIe root ports per ARK.
At 3 W the Z650 belongs to the fanless tablet group in sealed bodies with soldered memory and storage. Fixed clocks keep behavior predictable. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the package.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Atom Z650 solders to BGA 518 with 518 balls in a 13.8 × 13.8 mm footprint and cannot be moved to another board. Tablet makers qualify each model with a fixed board, BIOS and companion power chip, so another Atom part is not a field swap.
The BIOS must list the exact Atom Z650 string. Power delivery at 3 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 DDR2-800 in a single 32-bit channel for up to 2 GB, usually soldered beside the processor. The narrow bus fits tablet power budgets while feeding the core and GMA 600 graphics together.
No PCIe comes from the CPU per ARK. Board I/O hangs off the SM35 companion chip over a dedicated link, covering USB, SATA, SD, display and audio. Later tablet platforms added PCIe root ports that this generation lacks.
Cooling uses a spreader for fanless 3 W operation in sealed bodies. Fixed clocks need little airflow, but heat soak still slows sustained loads.
Upgrade paths
There is no CPU upgrade path on soldered BGA 518. The Atom Z650 cannot be removed, so a faster tablet means a new device. A faster single core comparison on the same package is the Z670 class at 1.5 GHz.
A platform move means a new tablet on a current mobile package with DDR3 memory. Recycle the old device through a proper e waste path once data is wiped.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Atom Z650 use?
It uses BGA 518, called T-PBGA518 in ARK at 13.8 × 13.8 mm.
Does the Atom Z650 have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. One core gives 2 threads per ARK, against 1 thread in some database listings.
What memory does the Atom Z650 use?
DDR2-800 in a single 32-bit channel, up to 2 GB, usually soldered.
Can the Atom Z650 be upgraded?
No. The chip is soldered in a sealed tablet body.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .