Intel Core i7-720QM socket: Socket G1
The Intel Core i7-720QM uses the Socket G1 socket. It is a 45 W quad core Clarksfield mobile part at 1.6 GHz with Turbo Boost to 2.8 GHz, Hyper-Threading and 6 MB of L3 cache.
- Socket
- Socket G1
- Launched
- September 2009
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 45 W
- Codename
- Clarksfield
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 1.6 / 2.8 GHz
Intel Core i7-720QM specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Clarksfield cores on 45 nm |
| Clocks | 1.6 GHz base, 2.8 GHz Turbo Boost |
| Cache | 1 MB L2 (4 × 256 KB), 6 MB shared L3 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 45 W |
| Manufacturing process | 45 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1333, two channels, up to 8 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 x16 from the CPU |
| Integrated graphics | None (discrete graphics) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket G1 (PGA988, 988 pins) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i7-720QM needs a motherboard with a Socket G1 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the Socket G1 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
Socket G1 at a glance
| Type | rPGA, 988 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | September 2009 |
| Memory | DDR3, two channels, up to 8 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Core i7-720QM is
The Intel Core i7-720QM is a quad core Clarksfield mobile processor from September 2009. It runs four Nehalem cores at 1.6 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 2.8 GHz, with Hyper-Threading for eight threads. Each core carries 256 KB of L2 cache with 6 MB of shared L3 cache. Power is rated at 45 W on a 45 nm process.
The 720QM was the entry Clarksfield quad for mobile workstations. Retail listings confirm 1.6 GHz with 6 MB on Socket G1 at 45 W. Against the 820QM it trails on clocks and cache at the same 45 W.
There is no graphics on Clarksfield. Display comes from discrete mobile graphics.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-720QM fits Socket G1 with 988 pins. PM55, HM55, QM57 and HM57 boards boot it directly with a late 2009 BIOS.
The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules, and the Intel Core i5-480M page shows a dual core alternative on the same socket.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR3-1333 in two channels up to 8 GB.
PCIe Gen 2 x16 comes from the CPU package.
Cooling uses a strong vendor heat pipe assembly rated for 45 W.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G1 the upgrade is the 820QM or 840QM on the same board. Beyond Socket G1 a move to Sandy Bridge quad needs a new notebook.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i7-720QM use?
Socket G1, the 988-pin package on PM55, HM55, QM57 and HM57 boards.
How many cores does the Core i7-720QM have?
Four cores and eight threads at 1.6 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 2.8 GHz, with 256 KB of L2 per core and 6 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Core i7-720QM?
DDR3-1333 in two channels up to 8 GB.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .