Intel Core i7-4930MX socket: Socket G3
The Intel Core i7-4930MX uses the Socket G3 socket. It is an unlocked 57 W Extreme quad core Haswell part for tuning laptops.
- Socket
- Socket G3
- Launched
- June 2013
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 57 W
- Codename
- Haswell
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 3.0 / 3.9 GHz
Intel Core i7-4930MX specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Haswell cores on 22 nm |
| Clocks | 3 GHz base, up to 3.9 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 8 MB Smart Cache |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 57 W |
| Manufacturing process | 22 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3L-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 16 lanes |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 4600 (400 MHz to 1350 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | FCPGA946 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i7-4930MX needs a motherboard with a Socket G3 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| Lynx Point mobile (8 series) | HM87, HM86, QM87 | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for Socket G3.
Socket G3 at a glance
| Type | rPGA, 946 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | June 2013 |
| Memory | DDR3L-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Core i7-4930MX is
Intel Core i7-4930MX is a quad core Haswell M series part that Intel released in June 2013 for serviceable laptops with socketed boards. It uses the Haswell core design on a 22 nm process, running at 3 GHz base with turbo to 3.9 GHz. The cache is 8 MB Smart Cache. Power is 57 W. Graphics come from Intel HD Graphics 4600 (400 MHz to 1350 MHz).
The cores carry Hyper-Threading for 8 threads. The GT2 graphics block with HD Graphics 4600 covers office work and video without a separate chip, while gaming bodies pair a discrete GPU over PCIe. The package supports DDR3L SODIMM memory that can be serviced.
At 57 W the Core i7-4930MX belongs to the Extreme MX group with an unlocked multiplier for board level tuning. The 3 GHz base with 3.9 GHz turbo suits the fastest socketed laptops with dual fans. Laptops pair it with SODIMM memory and SATA SSDs. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the socket before ordering parts.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-4930MX fits Socket G3, a 946-contact pin grid array with socketed rPGA packaging. The socket also accepts Haswell M, MQ and MX parts, but BIOS support still decides each model. Check the laptop service manual for access steps and the maker CPU support list for the exact model string.
Power and firmware decide service results. The 57 W envelope sizes the dual heat pipes and fans, and the board BIOS must list the exact Core i7-4930MX string. HM87 and HM86 boards pair the mobile SKUs, while QM87 covers workstation bodies. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide notes socketed laptop parts use board specific heatsinks.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is ddr3l-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 gb. Two SODIMM slots allow service and upgrades to the board maximum. Two matched modules help the graphics block that shares system RAM.
PCI Express is PCIe 3.0 with 16 lanes from the CPU. Boards wire lanes to discrete graphics options, Wi-Fi and SSDs. A mainstream card of the era pairs without waste where the chassis allows.
Cooling uses board specific heat pipes and fans sized for 57 W. Repaste and fan cleaning help sustained turbo more than any setting change.
Upgrade paths
There is little CPU upgrade path above the Core i7-4930MX. It sits at the top of the socketed Haswell mobile stack, so a faster G3 part means a different power envelope or a board hunt with little gain.
A platform move means a new laptop. Current Intel mobile lives on newer BGA packages with DDR4 or LPDDR4 and current wireless, which no Socket G3 board can reach. Recycle the old laptop through a proper e waste path once data is wiped.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-4930MX use?
It uses Socket G3, a 946-contact socketed rPGA package.
Can the Core i7-4930MX be replaced?
Yes, where the laptop allows access and the BIOS lists the exact model. Check the service manual first.
What memory does the Core i7-4930MX use?
DDR3L-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB. Two matched SODIMMs help the integrated graphics.
What turbo does the Core i7-4930MX reach?
Up to 3.9 GHz from a 3 GHz base.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i7-4930MX Extreme Specifications (ARK)
- Intel Core i7-4930MX Notebook Processor (Notebookcheck)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .