Intel Core i7-2630QM socket: Socket G2
The Intel Core i7-2630QM uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a 45 W quad core Sandy Bridge mobile part at 2.0 GHz with turbo to 2.9 GHz and Hyper-Threading.
- Socket
- Socket G2
- Launched
- January 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 45 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 2.0 / 2.9 GHz
Intel Core i7-2630QM specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.0 GHz base, 2.9 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 6 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 45 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 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCPGA988 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i7-2630QM 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 i7-2630QM is
Intel Core i7-2630QM is a quad core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in January 2011 for socketed performance laptops. It runs at 2.0 GHz base with turbo to 2.9 GHz and includes Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 8 threads. Cache is 6 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 45 W on a 32 nm process with 1,160 million transistors on a 216 mm2 die.
Four cores brought workstation class threading to 2011 laptops. Editing and compiling run well on 8 threads. Turbo lifts single threaded tasks to 2.9 GHz when thermal headroom allows.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 650 MHz to 1100 MHz. The block drives laptop panels and external monitors. Many 2630QM laptops pair it with a discrete GPU over PCIe lanes.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-2630QM fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. HM65 and HM67 boards carry early Sandy quads, while HM76 and HM77 accept Sandy parts directly. The BIOS must list the exact 2630QM string.
Board makers publish the final CPU lists. 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. Matched SODIMMs help shared graphics. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0 for discrete graphics, wireless and storage. Performance laptops of 2011 often paired the quad with a separate GPU.
Cooling is a 45 W laptop assembly with shared pipes for CPU and GPU where fitted. Cleaning restores sustained turbo behavior.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G2 the 2630QM can move to the 2720QM or 2760QM for higher clocks, where access and BIOS allow it. Storage and memory carry over. A nearby socketed quad reference is Intel Core i7-2720QM.
A platform move means a new laptop. Keep the old body for desk duty after wiping the drive.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-2630QM use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form.
Does the Core i7-2630QM have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Four cores give 8 threads.
What memory does the Core i7-2630QM use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB.
Can the Core i7-2630QM be replaced?
Yes, in socketed laptops with manual access and BIOS support.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i7-2630QM Processor (Intel ARK, 2.0 GHz, turbo 2.9 GHz, 45 W, HD3000)
- Intel Core i7-2630QM Specs (TechPowerUp, 2.0 GHz, turbo 2.9 GHz, Jan 2011, Socket G2)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .