Intel Core i5-3475S socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i5-3475S uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 65 W quad core Ivy Bridge desktop part with HD 4000 graphics.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- June 2012
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 65 W
- Codename
- Ivy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 2.9 / 3.6 GHz
Intel Core i5-3475S specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Ivy Bridge cores on 22 nm |
| Clocks | 2.9 GHz base, up to 3.6 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 6 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 65 W |
| Manufacturing process | 22 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 3.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 4000 (650 MHz to 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i5-3475S needs a motherboard with a LGA 1155 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 7 series | Z77, Z75, H77, B75, Q77, Q75 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series: H61, H67, P67, Z68 | Z68, P67, H67, H61 | Needs a BIOS update Needs a BIOS update from the board maker before an Ivy Bridge processor is installed. |
| 6 series business: B65, Q65, Q67 | Q67, Q65, B65 | Not supported |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1155.
LGA 1155 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,155 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 |
| Cooler mounting holes | 75 × 75 mm |
What the Core i5-3475S is
Intel Core i5-3475S is a low power quad core Ivy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in June 2012 for display heavy office systems. It matches the Core i5-3470S at 2.9 GHz base to 3.6 GHz turbo with 6 MB cache and 65 W power, but it carries HD 4000 graphics at 650 MHz to 1100 MHz instead of HD 2500. Four cores give 4 threads on a 22 nm process.
HD 4000 is the reason to pick this model. The larger graphics block improves video playback, multi monitor office work and light creation tasks that run without a card. The rest of the chip mirrors the 3470S, including the dual channel DDR3 controller, AVX and virtualization support.
Makers fitted it to B75, H77 and Q77 boards with DisplayPort and HDMI outputs that expose the stronger iGPU. Two DIMMs and an SSD complete the quiet office formula. The LGA, PGA and BGA: CPU package types explained guide explains why this LGA desktop part stays serviceable while mobile BGA twins do not.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-3475S fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. 7 series boards boot it with a shipping BIOS, and most 6 series H61, H67, P67 and Z68 boards accept it after a BIOS update with Ivy Bridge microcode. B65, Q65 and Q67 stay Sandy Bridge only. Intel documents the chip as a 65 W Ivy quad, which confirms the socket class.
Board choice should favor display wiring to use HD 4000. H77 and Q77 boards with digital outputs show the benefit, while a board with only VGA leaves performance on the table. Power at 65 W fits slim cases, so the decision is ports and chipset features. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers the BIOS order for 6 series boards.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB for 25.6 GB/s. The HD 4000 block shares that RAM, so two matched DIMMs are close to mandatory for smooth display work. A single module cuts bandwidth in half and slows both graphics and turbo holds. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 3.0, arranged as 1x16, 2x8 or 1x8 plus 2x4. Many 3475S systems skip a card entirely, since HD 4000 already drives two digital displays. A mainstream 2012 card still fits where older games or extra monitors are wanted.
Cooling tracks the 65 W S rating with a 69.1 C case limit class. The stock cooler stays quiet in office towers, and the 75 × 75 mm mount takes common LGA replacements. Keep small case intakes clear, since display heavy loads hold turbo longer than idle office work.
Upgrade paths
Within LGA 1155 the Core i5-3475S can move to faster Ivy quads on the same board, though few match its mix of 65 W and HD 4000. A step to a 77 W quad adds base clock at the cost of heat, while a step to Intel Core i5-3470S trades graphics for the same power. Memory and storage carry over in either case.
A platform change to DDR4 boards such as LGA 1200 needs a new board, new RAM and a new mount. Keep the 3475S where its display outputs and efficiency still cover the desks it serves.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i5-3475S use?
It uses LGA 1155. 7 series boards boot it directly, and most 6 series boards accept it after a BIOS update.
How is the Core i5-3475S different from the 3470S?
Clocks and power match at 2.9 GHz to 3.6 GHz and 65 W, but graphics are HD 4000 instead of HD 2500.
What memory does the Core i5-3475S use?
DDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB. Two matched DIMMs are important for HD 4000.
Is the Core i5-3475S unlocked?
No. The multiplier is locked, so it runs within the rated turbo tables.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .