Intel Core i5-2450M socket: Socket G2

What the Core i5-2450M is

Intel Core i5-2450M is a dual core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in January 2012 for socketed laptops. It runs at 2.5 GHz base with Turbo Boost 2.0 to 3.1 GHz, with 3 MB Intel Smart Cache and Hyper-Threading for 4 threads. Power is rated at 35 W on a 32 nm process. Turbo separates it from fixed clock i3 M parts on the same socket.

Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 650 MHz to 1300 MHz. The high ceiling helps video playback on laptop panels without a card. The controller takes DDR3, DDR3L and DDR3-RS classes at 1066 or 1333 MT/s.

Turbo behavior defines daily use. Single thread bursts reach 3.1 GHz, while all core loads settle lower inside 35 W. Laptops pair it with HM65 or HM77 boards and SODIMMs. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the socketed form.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The Core i5-2450M fits Socket G2 as a PPGA988 part at 37.5 × 37.5 mm. It also ships soldered on BGA 1023 at 31 by 24 mm, and Intel documents both packages for this SKU. Match the sSpec on the lid to the board, since PGA and BGA never interchange. The BIOS must list the exact 2450M string.

Mobile 6 series HM65 and HM67 boards carry early Sandy designs, while 7 series HM76 and HM77 accept Sandy parts directly. At 35 W any Socket G2 thermal design covers it. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains the board order.

Memory, PCIe and cooling

Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB. Two matched SODIMMs feed four threads and shared graphics. ECC is not supported.

PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0, split by the board for Wi-Fi, storage and any discrete GPU. Many 2450M laptops add a discrete option for heavier work, which the turbo clocks feed well.

Cooling is board specific for 35 W with a single fan. Clean airflow holds the 3.1 GHz single core peak longer than dusty assemblies. The PGA lid allows repaste, unlike the soldered twin.

Upgrade paths

On Socket G2 the Core i5-2450M can move to faster Sandy or Ivy M parts where access and BIOS allow it. Memory and storage carry over. The soldered twin on BGA 1023 is never an upgrade target. A fixed clock comparison is Intel Core i3-2370M on the same socket.

A platform change means a new laptop on a newer BGA package. Keep the current body for office duty after a wipe.