Intel Core i3-2130 socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i3-2130 uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 65 W dual core Sandy Bridge desktop part at 3.4 GHz, the fastest Sandy desktop i3 covered here.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- September 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 65 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- 3.4 GHz
Intel Core i3-2130 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.4 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 2000 (850 MHz to 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i3-2130 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 i3-2130 is
Intel Core i3-2130 is a dual core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in September 2011 for office and home towers. It runs at a fixed 3.4 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 3.4 GHz mark made the 2130 the fastest of the Sandy desktop i3 parts. Single threaded office tasks respond well. It still lacks extra cores, so a Core i5 pulls ahead in threaded work.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 2000 at 850 MHz to 1100 MHz. The block covers dual office monitors through board outputs. Memory is DDR3 in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i3-2130 fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. Every 6 series and 7 series board boots Sandy duals directly. H61 and B75 suit office builds, while P67 and Z series add tuning that this locked part does not use.
Check that the board exposes the display outputs needed for the integrated block. P67 boards skip onboard video entirely.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. Retail boards commonly run DDR3-1333 with this chip. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. A basic discrete card can add outputs or 3D speed where needed.
Cooling is the stock 65 W heatsink on 75 × 75 mm spacing. Aftermarket towers for this pattern are common and quiet.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2130 sits at the top of the Sandy i3 clocks, so the next step is a Core i5 for quad cores. DDR3 and drives carry over. A same socket i3 reference at lower clocks is Intel Core i3-2100.
A move to a DDR4 platform needs a new board and RAM. Keep the 2130 tower for office spare use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i3-2130 use?
It uses LGA 1155. All 6 series and 7 series boards boot it directly.
How is the Core i3-2130 different from the i3-2120?
The 2130 runs at 3.4 GHz. The 2120 runs at 3.3 GHz. Other specs match.
What memory does the Core i3-2130 use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
What is the upgrade path from a Core i3-2130?
A Core i5 for quad cores on the same board.
Sources and verification
- OptiPlex 3010 Guide (Dell, i3-2130 3.4 GHz 65 W office tower CPU)
- Intel Core i3 Desktop Comparison Chart (Intel, i3-2130 Q3-11 HD2000 850 to 1100)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .