Intel Processor N97 socket: BGA 1264
The Intel Processor N97 uses BGA 1264, a soldered BGA for Alder Lake-N processors with DDR4, DDR5 or LPDDR5 memory. The 4-core embedded chip at 12 W with UHD graphics cannot be replaced.
- Socket
- BGA 1264
- Launched
- January 2023
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 12 W
- Codename
- Alder Lake-N
- Segment
- Embedded
- Family
- Intel Processor
- Clocks
- n/a
Intel Processor N97 specifications
| Cores | 4 (4 Efficient-cores, no Performance-cores) |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Gracemont E-cores (Alder Lake-N) |
| Clocks | Up to 3.6 GHz turbo (base not published in opened sources) |
| Cache | 6 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 12 W |
| Manufacturing process | Intel 7 |
| Memory support | DDR4-3200, DDR5-4800 or LPDDR5-4800, single channel, up to 16 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe Gen3 lanes from the CPU |
| Integrated graphics | Intel UHD Graphics |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | BGA 1264 soldered |
| Cooler in the box | None (embedded cooling) |
| Launch price | $128.00 Intel recommended customer price |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Processor N97 needs a motherboard with a BGA 1264 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the BGA 1264 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
BGA 1264 at a glance
| Type | BGA, 1,264 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 35 × 24 mm |
| Introduced | October 2025 |
| Memory | DDR4, DDR5 and LPDDR5, single channel, up to 4800 MT/s, up to 32 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Not applicable (soldered) |
What the Processor N97 is
The Processor N97 is the 4-core embedded member of the Alder Lake-N N-series for industrial BGA 1264 boards from January 2023. Four Gracemont Efficient-cores without hyperthreading boost to 3.6 GHz turbo, backed by 6 MB of Smart Cache. The Intel 7 die targets 12 W for fanless enclosures with embedded lifecycle. ARK lists the embedded vertical segment distinct from mobile N parts.
UHD Graphics from shared memory cover industrial displays and signage. Single channel DDR4-3200, DDR5-4800 or LPDDR5-4800 to 16 GB feeds 4 threads for gateway duty. Higher turbo than N95 suits interactive HMIs while staying within 12 W cooling.
Industrial buyers pick the N97 for the fastest N-series turbo with embedded supply. Four threads suit gateways and HMIs at 12 W, while Atom x7000E parts add manageability features for control fleets. Boards that support Alder Lake-N cover the family with industrial firmware. The How to find your CPU socket type guide helps confirm BGA 1264 fit.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The N97 solders to BGA 1264 on industrial boards with no socketed path. Board makers set memory type and temperature qualification. BGA 1264 does not cross to BGA 1493 Elkhart Lake boards. ARK lists the embedded segment for long-life supply.
Platform IO comes from the SoC plus board wiring, with NVMe, wireless and display outputs from the design. Factory firmware carries Alder Lake-N embedded support.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Single channel DDR4-3200, DDR5-4800 or LPDDR5-4800 to 16 GB is fixed by board wiring. Soldered LPDDR5 suits sealed boxes, while SODIMM suits serviceable gateways. Capacity is modest by design for entry workloads.
PCIe Gen3 lanes wire storage and radios on compact boards. Cooling is a spreader to the chassis for 12 W, usually fully fanless.
Upgrade paths
No CPU change is possible on soldered BGA 1264. Storage and radio modules move where slots exist. Display cabling adds more value than internal swaps for fixed images.
Within Alder Lake-N embedded on BGA 1264 the N97 already tops turbo. Outside entry power, Atom x7000E on BGA 1264 adds manageability for control fleets.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Processor N97 use?
BGA 1264 as a soldered BGA for Alder Lake-N processors. It cannot be removed or upgraded.
How is N97 different from N95?
Same 4-core layout with higher 3.6 GHz turbo in an embedded SKU with industrial supply, against mobile positioning on N95.
What is the launch price of the N97?
$128.00 Intel recommended customer price.
What memory does the N97 support?
DDR4-3200, DDR5-4800 or LPDDR5-4800 in single channel to 16 GB.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .