Intel Core i3-2350M socket: Socket G2
The Intel Core i3-2350M uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Sandy Bridge mobile part at 2.3 GHz with Hyper-Threading for socketed laptops.
- Socket
- Socket G2
- Launched
- October 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- 2.3 GHz
Intel Core i3-2350M specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.3 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 16 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 3000 |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCPGA988 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i3-2350M needs a motherboard with a Socket G2 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the Socket G2 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
Socket G2 at a glance
| Type | rPGA, 988 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 and DDR3L, two channels, 1066 to 1600 MT/s |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Core i3-2350M is
Intel Core i3-2350M is a dual core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in October 2011 for socketed laptops. It runs at a fixed 2.3 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 a 149 mm2 die.
The 100 MHz step over the 2330M trims waits in threaded office apps. Compared with the older i3-390M at 2.5 GHz, the newer architecture keeps pace at lower clocks. Battery life depends on the chassis more than the 100 MHz gap.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000. The block covers laptop displays and video playback. The controller takes DDR3 SODIMMs in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i3-2350M fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. HM65 and HM67 boards from the Sandy wave carry it, and HM76 plus HM77 boards accept Sandy parts. The BIOS must list 2350M by name.
A board that omits the string may refuse to boot even when the chipset matches. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains why the list outranks the chipset name.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB. The controller runs fitted modules at 1066 or 1333 MT/s. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. Lanes feed wireless, storage and card readers. Most 2350M laptops stay on integrated graphics.
Cooling is a 35 W laptop fan assembly sized per chassis. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide notes laptop heatsinks stay board specific.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G2 the 2350M sits near the top of the Sandy mobile i3 range, so the next step is a Core i5 M with turbo. BIOS support and lid access decide whether the swap is practical. A socketed comparison is Intel Core i3-2330M.
When the laptop cannot be opened, storage and memory are the only upgrades. A platform move means a new laptop.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i3-2350M use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form.
Does the Core i3-2350M have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Two cores give 4 threads.
What memory does the Core i3-2350M use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB.
What is the upgrade path from a Core i3-2350M?
It can move to a Core i5 M with turbo where access and BIOS allow it.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i3-2350M Notebook Processor (Notebookcheck, 2.3 GHz, Socket rPGA988B BGA1023)
- Core i3-2350M specifications (chipversus, 2.3 GHz, 3 MB, 32 nm, PGA988, Oct 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .