Intel Core i7-2920XM socket: Socket G2
The Intel Core i7-2920XM uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a 55 W quad core Sandy Bridge Extreme mobile part at 2.5 GHz with turbo to 3.5 GHz and an unlocked multiplier.
- Socket
- Socket G2
- Launched
- January 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 55 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 2.5 / 3.5 GHz
Intel Core i7-2920XM specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.5 GHz base, 3.5 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 8 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 55 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 | Unlocked |
| Package | FCPGA988 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i7-2920XM 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 i7-2920XM is
Intel Core i7-2920XM is a quad core Sandy Bridge Extreme mobile processor that Intel released in January 2011 for tuned performance laptops. It runs at 2.5 GHz base with turbo to 3.5 GHz on one core and includes Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 8 threads. Cache is 8 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 55 W on a 32 nm process.
The XM suffix marks an unlocked multiplier for boards that allow tuning. Owners raise clocks where cooling and firmware permit. At stock it leads early Sandy mobile quads on turbo.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 650 MHz to 1300 MHz. The block drives laptop panels and external monitors. The controller takes DDR3 SODIMMs in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-2920XM fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. Tuning needs a board that allows multiplier changes and 55 W cooling. HM65 and HM67 boards from the Sandy wave carry early Extreme quads where the maker allows it.
The board BIOS must list the exact 2920XM 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. 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. Most XM laptops pair the quad with a separate GPU.
Cooling is a 55 W laptop assembly with large shared pipes. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide notes laptop heatsinks stay board specific.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G2 the 2920XM can move to the 2960XM for higher clocks, where the 55 W thermal design and BIOS allow it. Storage and memory carry over. A nearby socketed quad reference is Intel Core i7-2820QM.
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 i7-2920XM use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form.
Is the Core i7-2920XM unlocked?
Yes. The XM suffix marks an unlocked multiplier for boards that allow tuning.
What memory does the Core i7-2920XM use?
DDR3-1066 to 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Can the Core i7-2920XM be replaced?
Yes, in socketed laptops with 55 W cooling and BIOS support.
Sources and verification
- Sandy Bridge mobile list (2920XM 2.5 GHz turbo 3.5 Jan 2011 Socket G2)
- PGA988 CPU list (2920XM 2.5 GHz 55 W Q1 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .