Intel Core i7-2860QM socket: Socket G2
The Intel Core i7-2860QM uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a 45 W quad core Sandy Bridge mobile part at 2.5 GHz with turbo to 3.6 GHz and Hyper-Threading. This page covers the socketed rPGA version. The chip also ships soldered on BGA 1224.
- Socket
- Socket G2
- Launched
- September 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 45 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 2.5 / 3.6 GHz
Intel Core i7-2860QM specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.5 GHz base, 3.6 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 i7-2860QM 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 i7-2860QM is
Intel Core i7-2860QM is a quad core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in September 2011 for socketed mobile workstations. It runs at 2.5 GHz base with turbo to 3.6 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 2860QM tops the Sandy mobile QM range on clocks with a large cache. Threaded editing and compiling run well on 8 threads. Late 2011 workstations pair it with discrete GPUs.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 650 MHz to 1300 MHz. The block covers laptop panels at native resolution. The LGA, PGA and BGA: CPU package types explained guide places this rPGA part against soldered forms.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-2860QM fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. This page covers the socketed version. The same silicon also ships soldered on BGA 1224 for thin performance bodies. HM65, HM67, HM76 and HM77 boards that list the string boot it at rated clocks.
OEM supply means boxed stock is rare. Check the laptop maker list for the exact model before moving the chip.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 to 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB. A matched pair helps shared graphics more than a single larger module. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. Lanes feed discrete graphics, wireless and storage.
Cooling follows the 45 W mobile pattern with shared pipes for CPU and GPU where fitted. Cleaning the fan restores sustained clocks.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G2 the 2860QM already tops the Sandy QM range, so the next step is an Extreme XM part where the board allows 55 W. Memory and storage move with the board. A nearby socketed quad reference is Intel Core i7-2820QM.
A full platform change needs a new laptop. Keep the old body for spare use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-2860QM use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form. A soldered twin exists on BGA 1224.
How is the Core i7-2860QM different from the 2820QM?
The 2860QM runs at 2.5 GHz base with 3.6 GHz turbo and 8 MB cache. The 2820QM runs at 2.3 GHz base with 3.4 GHz turbo.
What memory does the Core i7-2860QM use?
DDR3-1066 to 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Can the Core i7-2860QM be upgraded?
Yes, where the laptop allows lid access and the BIOS lists the faster part.
Sources and verification
- Sandy Bridge mobile list (2860QM 2.5 GHz turbo 3.6 8MB Sep 2011 Socket G2 BGA)
- Sandy Bridge (Wikipedia, 2860QM quad Sep 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .