Intel Core i3-330M socket: Socket G1
The Intel Core i3-330M uses the Socket G1 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Arrandale mobile part at 2.133 GHz with Hyper-Threading and 3 MB of L3 cache.
- Socket
- Socket G1
- Launched
- January 7, 2010
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Arrandale
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- 2.13 GHz
Intel Core i3-330M specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Arrandale cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.133 GHz (no Turbo Boost) |
| Cache | 512 KB L2 (2 × 256 KB), 3 MB shared L3 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 35 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm CPU, 45 nm graphics |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066, two channels, up to 8 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 x16 from the package |
| Integrated graphics | HD Graphics 500 MHz (667 burst) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket G1 (rPGA988A, 988 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i3-330M needs a motherboard with a Socket G1 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 5 series mobile | HM55, HM57, QM57 | 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 G1.
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 i3-330M is
The Intel Core i3-330M is a dual core Arrandale mobile processor that Intel launched on January 7, 2010 with the Calpella platform. It runs two Westmere cores at 2.133 GHz with Hyper-Threading for four threads and no Turbo Boost, backed by 256 KB of L2 per core and 3 MB of shared L3 cache. Power is rated at 35 W across the 32 nm CPU die and 45 nm graphics die.
The i3-330M was the volume Arrandale, matching the Pentium P6200 on clocks while adding Hyper-Threading for threaded office work. HD Graphics at 500 MHz with 667 MHz burst cover two displays. It shipped in both rPGA988A socketed and BGA1288 soldered packages under one model name; this page covers the socketed package per the socketed package rule.
Memory is DDR3-1066 in two channels up to 8 GB through the on package controller.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i3-330M fits Socket G1 with 988 pins. HM55 class boards boot Arrandale directly. The BGA1288 soldered version needs its own board and is not interchangeable.
The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules, and the Intel Core i3-390M page shows a faster i3 on the same socket.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR3-1066 in two channels up to 8 GB.
PCIe 2.0 x16 comes from the package for discrete graphics options.
Cooling uses the vendor heat pipe assembly rated for 35 W.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G1 the upgrade is a Core i5 with Turbo Boost such as the 520M, or a Core i7 with 4 MB of cache. Beyond Socket G1 a move to Sandy Bridge needs a new notebook.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i3-330M use?
Socket G1, the 988-pin rPGA package. A soldered BGA1288 version of the same model exists on its own boards.
How many cores does the Core i3-330M have?
Two cores and four threads at 2.133 GHz with 256 KB of L2 per core and 3 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Core i3-330M?
DDR3-1066 in two channels up to 8 GB.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .