Intel Core i7-2820QM socket: Socket G2
The Intel Core i7-2820QM uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a 45 W quad core Sandy Bridge mobile part at 2.3 GHz with turbo to 3.4 GHz and Hyper-Threading. This page covers the socketed rPGA version. The chip also ships soldered on BGA 1224.
- 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
- 2.3 / 3.4 GHz
Intel Core i7-2820QM specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.3 GHz base, 3.4 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 8 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 45 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066 to 1600, two channels, up to 32 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 i7-2820QM 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 i7-2820QM is
Intel Core i7-2820QM is a quad core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in January 2011 for socketed mobile workstations. It runs at 2.3 GHz base with turbo to 3.4 GHz on one core and includes Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 8 threads. Cache is 8 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 45 W on a 32 nm process.
The larger 8 MB cache separates it from 6 MB QM parts in threaded work. Mobile workstations chose it for editing and compiling. ThinkPad W520 class machines list it with 45 W cooling.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 650 MHz to 1300 MHz. The block drives laptop panels and external monitors. Many 2820QM laptops pair it with a discrete GPU over PCIe lanes.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-2820QM fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. This page covers the socketed rPGA version. The same silicon also ships soldered on BGA 1224 for thin bodies, which is not a field swap. HM65 and HM67 boards carry early Sandy quads, while HM76 and HM77 accept Sandy parts directly.
The board BIOS must list the exact 2820QM 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 to 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB. Two matched modules help the shared graphics block. 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 2820QM can move to the 2860QM 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 i7-2820QM use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form. A soldered twin exists on BGA 1224.
Does the Core i7-2820QM have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Four cores give 8 threads.
What memory does the Core i7-2820QM use?
DDR3-1066 to 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Can the Core i7-2820QM be replaced?
Yes, in socketed laptops with manual access and BIOS support.
Sources and verification
- Sandy Bridge mobile list (2820QM 2.3 GHz turbo 3.4 8MB Jan 2011 Socket G2 BGA)
- ThinkWiki Core i7 (2720QM 2820QM ThinkPad T520 W520 quad list)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .