Intel Core i5-2520M socket: Socket G2
The Intel Core i5-2520M uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Sandy Bridge mobile part at 2.5 GHz with turbo to 3.2 GHz and Hyper-Threading. This page covers the socketed rPGA version. The chip also ships soldered on BGA 1023.
- Socket
- Socket G2
- Launched
- February 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 2.5 / 3.2 GHz
Intel Core i5-2520M specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.5 GHz base, 3.2 GHz 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 (650 MHz to 1300 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCPGA988 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i5-2520M 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 i5-2520M is
Intel Core i5-2520M is a dual core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in February 2011 for socketed business laptops. It runs at 2.5 GHz base with turbo to 3.2 GHz 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.
Turbo to 3.2 GHz gives strong single threaded speed for office suites. Business fleets chose it for the mix of threads and clocks. Fixed board BOMs keep behavior stable across images.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 650 MHz to 1300 MHz. The block drives laptop panels and external monitors. The controller takes DDR3 SODIMMs in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-2520M fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. This page covers the socketed rPGA version. Intel also lists the same silicon soldered on BGA 1023 for thin bodies, which is not a field swap. HM65 and HM67 boards carry early Sandy designs, while HM76 and HM77 accept Sandy parts directly.
The board BIOS must list the exact 2520M string. 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. Matched SODIMMs help shared graphics. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0 for wireless and storage. Most 2520M laptops stay on integrated graphics.
Cooling is a 35 W laptop fan assembly sized per chassis. Cleaning restores sustained turbo behavior.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G2 the 2520M can move to the 2540M for 100 MHz more, where access and BIOS allow it. Storage and memory carry over. A nearby socketed reference is Intel Core i5-2410M.
A platform move means a new laptop. Keep the old body for basic tasks after wiping the drive.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i5-2520M use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form. A soldered twin exists on BGA 1023.
Does the Core i5-2520M have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Two cores give 4 threads.
What memory does the Core i5-2520M use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB.
Can the Core i5-2520M be replaced?
Yes, in socketed laptops with manual access and BIOS support.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i5-2520M Processor (Intel ARK, 2.5 GHz, turbo 3.2 GHz, 35 W, HD3000, Q1-11)
- Core i5-2520M 2.5 to 3.2 GHz HD3000 (Notebookcheck comparison list, Feb 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .