Intel Core i7-2960XM socket: Socket G2
The Intel Core i7-2960XM uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a 55 W quad core Sandy Bridge Extreme mobile part at 2.7 GHz with turbo to 3.7 GHz and an unlocked multiplier.
- Socket
- Socket G2
- Launched
- September 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 55 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 2.7 / 3.7 GHz
Intel Core i7-2960XM specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.7 GHz base, 3.7 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 i7-2960XM 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 i7-2960XM is
Intel Core i7-2960XM is a quad core Sandy Bridge Extreme mobile processor that Intel released in September 2011 for flagship performance laptops. It runs at 2.7 GHz base with turbo to 3.7 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 2960XM tops the Sandy mobile range on base and turbo clocks with an unlocked multiplier. Threaded editing and compiling run at the front of the 2011 laptop pack. Large 55 W heatsinks with shared pipes carry the load.
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 i7-2960XM fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. Tuning needs a board that allows multiplier changes and 55 W cooling. 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 55 W mobile pattern with large shared pipes for CPU and GPU. Cleaning the fans restores sustained clocks.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G2 the 2960XM already tops the Sandy mobile range, so later steps are Ivy Bridge XM parts on 7 series boards. Memory and storage move with the board. A nearby socketed Extreme reference is Intel Core i7-2920XM.
A full platform change needs a new laptop. Keep the old flagship for spare use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-2960XM use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form.
How is the Core i7-2960XM different from the 2920XM?
The 2960XM runs at 2.7 GHz base with 3.7 GHz turbo. The 2920XM runs at 2.5 GHz base with 3.5 GHz turbo.
What memory does the Core i7-2960XM use?
DDR3-1066 to 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Is the Core i7-2960XM unlocked?
Yes. The XM suffix marks an unlocked multiplier.
Sources and verification
- Sandy Bridge mobile list (2960XM 2.7 GHz turbo 3.7 Sep 2011 Socket G2)
- PGA988 CPU list (2960XM 2.7 GHz 55 W Q4 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .