Intel Core i3-2120T socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i3-2120T uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Sandy Bridge desktop part at 2.6 GHz with Hyper-Threading for efficient small towers.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- September 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- 2.6 GHz
Intel Core i3-2120T specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.6 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 |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i3-2120T 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 i3-2120T is
Intel Core i3-2120T is a dual core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in September 2011 for power capped desktops. It runs at a fixed 2.6 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 with 504 million transistors.
The chip pairs a mid range Sandy clock with a low power envelope. It fits fanless leaning office boxes and school labs where heat matters more than peak speed. Threaded suites run smoothly on 4 threads.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 2000. The block runs office monitors at native resolution. The LGA, PGA and BGA: CPU package types explained guide places this LGA desktop part against mobile forms.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i3-2120T fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. H61, B65, H67, Z68 and later 7 series boards boot Sandy parts directly. Business chipsets such as B65 and Q67 also accept it.
Low height coolers cover the 35 W load in slim cases. Check case clearance before reusing a tall tower cooler. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide lists the shared 75 mm pattern.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. The highest official speed is 1333 MT/s. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. Most 2120T systems use onboard video and keep the slot free for network or storage cards.
Cooling uses the 75 × 75 mm desktop mount with a low profile fan. Dust filters extend service intervals in labs.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2120T can move to the 65 W i3-2120 for higher fixed clocks, or to a Core i5 for quad cores. The board and RAM stay. A low power Pentium comparison is Intel Pentium G630T.
A jump to a current DDR4 platform needs a new board, cooler mount check and RAM. Keep the 2120T tower for kiosk use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i3-2120T use?
It uses LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form.
How is the Core i3-2120T different from the i3-2120?
The 2120T is a 35 W part at 2.6 GHz. The 2120 is a 65 W part at 3.3 GHz.
What memory does the Core i3-2120T use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Does the Core i3-2120T have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Two cores give 4 threads.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i3-2120T Specs (TechPowerUp, 2.6 GHz, 35 W, September 2011, HD2000)
- Intel Core i3-2120T Processor (Intel ARK, 2.6 GHz, 4 threads, 35 W)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .