Intel Core i3-2102 socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i3-2102 uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 65 W dual core Sandy Bridge desktop part at 3.1 GHz with HD Graphics 3000.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- June 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 65 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- 3.1 GHz
Intel Core i3-2102 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.1 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 3 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 65 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 3000 (850 MHz to 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i3-2102 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 i3-2102 is
Intel Core i3-2102 is a dual core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in June 2011 for OEM towers. It runs at a fixed 3.1 GHz with no turbo and includes Hyper-Threading, so 2 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 3 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 65 W on a 32 nm process.
The 2102 matches the i3-2100 on clocks while moving graphics to HD Graphics 3000. Office displays look the same, but the stronger block helps video playback. Buyers meet it in prebuilt towers rather than boxed stock.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 850 MHz to 1100 MHz. The block feeds office monitors through board outputs. Memory is DDR3 in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i3-2102 fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. H61, H67, P67, Z68, B75 and H77 boards boot Sandy duals directly. The board BIOS should list the 2102 string.
OEM boards from large tower makers sometimes limit CPU lists to their own configurations. Check the maker support page for the exact prebuilt model before moving the chip.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. Prebuilts often ship a single DIMM, so adding a matched second module helps shared graphics. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. The x16 slot can take a low profile office card.
Cooling is the standard 65 W OEM heatsink on 75 × 75 mm spacing. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide covers pattern sharing across LGA generations.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2102 can move to the i3-2120 or i3-2130 for higher clocks, or to a Core i5 for quad cores. RAM and storage carry over. A retail twin for comparison is the boxed i3-2100 class on the same socket.
A platform change to DDR4 needs a new board and RAM. Keep the 2102 prebuilt for office spare duty.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i3-2102 use?
It uses LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form.
How is the Core i3-2102 different from the i3-2100?
The 2102 uses HD Graphics 3000. The 2100 uses HD Graphics 2000. Clocks match.
What memory does the Core i3-2102 use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Does the Core i3-2102 have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Two cores give 4 threads.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i3 Desktop Comparison Chart (Intel, i3-2102 Q2-11 3.1 GHz HD3000 850 to 1100)
- 2nd Gen Core Desktop Datasheet Vol 1 (Intel, i3-2105/i3-2100 family Sandy Bridge LGA1155)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .