Intel Core i3-2100T socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i3-2100T uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Sandy Bridge desktop part at 2.5 GHz with Hyper-Threading for low power towers.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- February 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- 2.5 GHz
Intel Core i3-2100T specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.5 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 3 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 35 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 2000 (650 MHz to 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i3-2100T needs a motherboard with a LGA 1155 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 7 series | Z77, Z75, H77, B75, Q77, Q75 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series: H61, H67, P67, Z68 | Z68, P67, H67, H61 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series business: B65, Q65, Q67 | Q67, Q65, B65 | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1155.
LGA 1155 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,155 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 |
| Cooler mounting holes | 75 × 75 mm |
What the Core i3-2100T is
Intel Core i3-2100T is a dual core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in February 2011 for low power towers and compact boxes. It runs at a fixed 2.5 GHz with no turbo and includes Hyper-Threading, so 2 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 3 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 35 W on a 32 nm process.
The T suffix marks the 35 W class. Threaded office apps benefit from 4 threads even at modest clocks. Small firms chose it for quiet builds with slim coolers.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 2000 at 650 MHz to 1100 MHz. The lower base suits idle desktops, while the burst covers monitors and video. The memory controller takes DDR3 in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i3-2100T fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. Both 6 series and 7 series boards boot Sandy Bridge directly, so H61, B75 and H77 all work. No update is needed for Sandy parts.
At 35 W the chip suits thin mini ITX towers that cannot cool a 65 W part. Board display outputs decide how the graphics block is used. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. A 4 GB to 8 GB pair covers office use. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. Most 2100T builds stay on integrated graphics for office monitors.
Cooling follows the low power desktop pattern with a slim heatsink on 75 × 75 mm spacing. Small fans stay quiet at 35 W.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2100T can move to the standard i3-2100 for more clocks on the same board, or to a Core i5 for quad cores. Memory and storage carry over. A same socket low power comparison is Intel Pentium G620T.
A platform move to DDR4 boards such as LGA 1200 needs a new board and RAM. Keep the 2100T box for terminal duty.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i3-2100T use?
It uses LGA 1155. Both 6 series and 7 series boards boot it directly.
Does the Core i3-2100T have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Two cores give 4 threads. Pentium G parts of this era have 2 threads.
What memory does the Core i3-2100T use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Is the Core i3-2100T unlocked?
No. The multiplier is locked.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i3-2100T Processor (Intel ARK, 2.5 GHz, 4 threads, 35 W, HD2000 650 to 1100)
- Intel Core i3-2100T (CPU-Monkey, 2.5 GHz, 35 W, LGA1155, Q1/2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .