Intel Core i7-2600 socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i7-2600 uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 95 W quad core Sandy Bridge desktop part at 3.4 GHz with turbo to 3.8 GHz and Hyper-Threading.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- January 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 95 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 3.4 / 3.8 GHz
Intel Core i7-2600 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.4 GHz base, 3.8 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 8 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 95 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 1350 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i7-2600 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 i7-2600 is
Intel Core i7-2600 is a quad core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in January 2011 for office and home towers. It runs at 3.4 GHz base with turbo to 3.8 GHz and includes Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 8 threads. Cache is 8 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 95 W on a 32 nm process.
The i7-2600 led the locked Sandy desktop range on threads and cache. Threaded creation tasks run well on 8 threads. It lacks an unlocked multiplier, so clocks stay at rated values.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 2000 at 850 MHz to 1350 MHz. The block runs office monitors at native resolution. A discrete card is only needed for extra outputs or 3D tasks.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-2600 fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. All 6 series boards from the Sandy launch boot it, including B65, H61, H67, P67 and Z68. Later 7 series boards accept Sandy quads directly.
Memory and board choice matter more than chipset branding at this level. Any board that lists the 2600 runs it at rated clocks. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains the support list habit.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. Dual channel mode gives up to 21 GB/s with DDR3-1333. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. The x16 slot takes a discrete card for gaming or extra outputs.
Cooling is the stock 95 W push pin unit on 75 × 75 mm spacing. A clean fan holds the 3.4 GHz base behavior.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2600 can move to the unlocked 2600K for tuning on P67 or Z boards. DDR3 and storage move with the board. A same socket low power reference is Intel Core i7-2600S.
A jump to DDR4 platforms needs a new board and RAM. Keep the 2600 tower for school or shop use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-2600 use?
It uses LGA 1155. All 6 series and 7 series boards boot it directly.
Does the Core i7-2600 have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Four cores give 8 threads.
What memory does the Core i7-2600 use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Is the Core i7-2600 unlocked?
No. The multiplier is locked. The 2600K is unlocked.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i7-2600 Processor (Mouser datasheet, 3.4 GHz, turbo 3.8 GHz, 95 W, HD2000 850 to 1350)
- Intel Core i7-2600 3.4 GHz turbo 3.8 GHz HD2000 (Newegg, LGA1155, Jan 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .