Intel Core i5-2540M socket: Socket G2
The Intel Core i5-2540M uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Sandy Bridge mobile part at 2.6 GHz with turbo to 3.3 GHz and Hyper-Threading. This page covers the socketed rPGA version. The chip also ships soldered on BGA 1023.
- Socket
- Socket G2
- Launched
- February 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 2.6 / 3.3 GHz
Intel Core i5-2540M specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.6 GHz base, 3.3 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 3 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 35 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 3000 (650 MHz to 1300 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCPGA988 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i5-2540M needs a motherboard with a Socket G2 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the Socket G2 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
Socket G2 at a glance
| Type | rPGA, 988 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 and DDR3L, two channels, 1066 to 1600 MT/s |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Core i5-2540M is
Intel Core i5-2540M is a dual core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in February 2011 for socketed business laptops. It runs at 2.6 GHz base with turbo to 3.3 GHz and includes Hyper-Threading, so 2 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 3 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 35 W on a 32 nm process with 624 million transistors.
Turbo to 3.3 GHz gives strong single threaded speed for office suites. Business fleets chose it as the top early Sandy mobile i5. Fixed board BOMs keep behavior stable across images.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 650 MHz to 1300 MHz. The block drives laptop panels and external monitors. The controller takes DDR3 SODIMMs in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-2540M fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. This page covers the socketed rPGA version. Intel also lists the same silicon soldered on BGA 1023 for thin bodies, which is not a field swap. HM65 and HM67 boards carry early Sandy designs, while HM76 and HM77 accept Sandy parts directly.
The board BIOS must list the exact 2540M string. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains why the list outranks the chipset name.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB. Matched SODIMMs help shared graphics. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0 for wireless and storage. Most 2540M laptops stay on integrated graphics.
Cooling is a 35 W laptop fan assembly sized per chassis. Cleaning restores sustained turbo behavior.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G2 the 2540M sits at the top of the early Sandy mobile i5 range, so the next step is a Core i7 M with larger cache where access and BIOS allow it. Storage and memory carry over. A nearby socketed reference is Intel Core i5-2520M.
A platform move means a new laptop. Keep the old body for basic tasks after wiping the drive.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i5-2540M use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form. A soldered twin exists on BGA 1023.
Does the Core i5-2540M have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Two cores give 4 threads.
What memory does the Core i5-2540M use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB.
Can the Core i5-2540M be replaced?
Yes, in socketed laptops with manual access and BIOS support.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i5-2540M Specs (TechPowerUp, 2.6 GHz, 35 W, Feb 2011, HD3000)
- Core i5-2540M 2.6 to 3.3 GHz (Notebookcheck comparison list, Socket G2 BGA)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .