Intel Core i7-3820QM socket: Socket G2

What the Core i7-3820QM is

Intel Core i7-3820QM is a quad core Ivy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in April 2012 for socketed mobile workstations. It runs at 2.7 GHz base with turbo to 3.7 GHz, with 8 MB Intel Smart Cache and Hyper-Threading for 8 threads. Power is rated at 45 W on a 22 nm process. The 8 MB cache separates it from 6 MB QM quads for working sets that reuse data.

Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 4000 at 650 MHz to 1250 MHz. The block handles office displays, while workstation laptops pair the chip with a discrete GPU for CAD style work. Memory is DDR3, DDR3L and DDR3-RS at 1333 or 1600 MT/s for up to 32 GB.

Larger cache helps compiles, VMs and data transforms that hit the same lines repeatedly. Laptops pair it with QM77, dual SODIMMs and discrete graphics. All core loads sit near 2.7 GHz, while bursts reach 3.7 GHz. The How to find your CPU socket type guide helps confirm the socketed form.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The Core i7-3820QM fits Socket G2 as an FCPGA988 part at 37.5 × 37.5 mm. It also ships soldered on BGA 1224 at 31.0 × 24.0 mm, with Intel ordering data showing both FC-PGA12F and FC-BGA12F trays. The lid code decides the board, since the packages never interchange. The BIOS must list the exact 3820QM string with quad tables.

Boards are Socket G2 quad capable designs with HM77, QM77 or QS77. At 45 W a full quad heatsink is required. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains the firmware path for Sandy era boards.

Memory, PCIe and cooling

Memory support is DDR3, DDR3L and DDR3-RS at 1333 or 1600 MT/s, two channels, up to 32 GB for 25.6 GB/s. Two 8 GB modules feed eight threads and shared graphics, and the 8 MB cache trims trips to RAM. ECC is not supported.

PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 3.0, split as 1x16, 2x8 or 1x8 plus 2x4. Workstation laptops wire lanes to a discrete GPU plus SSDs. Integrated graphics drive the panel when switching saves power.

Cooling is board specific for 45 W with a 105 C junction class. The larger cache does not raise power by itself, but sustained eight thread loads still need clean fans. Repaste often restores turbo behavior.

Upgrade paths

On Socket G2 the Core i7-3820QM can move to faster 8 MB quads where cooling and BIOS allow it, such as Intel Core i7-3840QM with higher clocks. Memory, storage and the discrete GPU carry over. The soldered twin on BGA 1224 is never an upgrade target.

A platform change means a new mobile workstation on a newer BGA package. Keep the current quad for threaded work where 8 MB cache still helps.