Intel Core i7-2635QM socket: BGA 1224
The Intel Core i7-2635QM uses the BGA 1224 package. It is a soldered 45 W quad core Sandy Bridge mobile part at 2.0 GHz with turbo to 2.9 GHz and cannot be replaced.
- Socket
- BGA 1224
- Launched
- January 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 45 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (soldered)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 2.0 / 2.9 GHz
Intel Core i7-2635QM 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 | PCIe lanes from the CPU (layout varies by board design) |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 3000 (650 MHz to 1200 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | BGA 1224 (FCBGA, 1224 balls, 31.0 × 24.0 mm, soldered) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i7-2635QM needs a motherboard with a BGA 1224 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the BGA 1224 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
BGA 1224 at a glance
| Type | BGA, 1,224 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 31.0 × 24.0 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 and DDR3L, two channels, 1333 to 1600 MT/s |
| Cooler mounting holes | Not applicable (soldered) |
What the Core i7-2635QM is
Intel Core i7-2635QM is a quad core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in January 2011 for thin soldered 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.
Four cores brought workstation class threading to thin 2011 laptops. Editing and compiling run well on 8 threads. Turbo lifts single threaded tasks when thermal headroom allows.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 650 MHz to 1200 MHz. The block drives laptop panels and external monitors. The controller takes DDR3 SODIMMs in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-2635QM solders to BGA 1224 with 1,224 balls in a 31.0 by 24.0 mm footprint and cannot be moved. Thin performance makers qualify each model with a fixed board and BIOS, so another BGA part is not a field swap.
The BIOS must list the exact 2635QM string. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains why that list matters more than 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 revision 2.0 with up to 16 lanes from the CPU. Boards wire lanes per chassis for discrete graphics, wireless and storage.
Cooling is a 45 W laptop assembly with shared pipes for CPU and GPU where fitted. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide notes soldered laptops keep board specific cooling.
Upgrade paths
There is no CPU upgrade path on soldered BGA 1224. The 2635QM cannot be removed, so a faster thin laptop means a new board or a new device. A nearby socketed quad is the 2630QM class on Socket G2.
A platform move means a new laptop on a current package. Keep the old body for desk duty after wiping the drive.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-2635QM use?
It uses BGA 1224, a soldered package. The chip cannot be removed.
Does the Core i7-2635QM have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Four cores give 8 threads.
What memory does the Core i7-2635QM use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB.
Can the Core i7-2635QM be upgraded?
No. Soldered BGA parts need a board or laptop replacement for more speed.
Sources and verification
- Sandy Bridge mobile list (2635QM 2.0 GHz turbo 2.9 HD3000 Jan 2011 BGA)
- Sandy Bridge (Wikipedia, 2635QM quad Jan 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .