Intel Core i5-480M socket: Socket G1
The Intel Core i5-480M uses the Socket G1 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Arrandale mobile part at 2.67 GHz with turbo to 2.93 GHz and Hyper-Threading.
- Socket
- Socket G1
- Launched
- January 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Arrandale
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 2.67 / 2.93 GHz
Intel Core i5-480M specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Arrandale cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.67 GHz base, 2.93 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 3 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 35 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-800 and 1066, two channels, up to 8 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the package, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics (500 MHz to 766 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | rPGA988A (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i5-480M 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 i5-480M is
Intel Core i5-480M is a dual core Arrandale mobile processor that Intel released in January 2011 for socketed laptops. It runs at 2.67 GHz base with turbo to 2.93 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.
Turbo lifts single threaded tasks above the base clock. Office suites and browsing feel quick for an early 2011 laptop. The chip pairs a 32 nm CPU die with a 45 nm graphics die on the same package.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics at 500 MHz to 766 MHz. The block drives laptop panels at native resolution. Memory is DDR3 at 800 or 1066 MT/s in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-480M fits Socket G1 with 988 pins in rPGA988A form. HM55 and HM57 boards from the Calpella wave carry it. The BIOS must list the exact 480M string.
Board makers publish the final CPU lists. A board that omits the string may refuse to boot even when the chipset matches. Check the list before buying a used laptop for parts.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-800 and 1066, two channels, up to 8 GB. A matched pair helps shared graphics more than a single larger module. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the package at PCIe 2.0 for wireless and storage. Most 480M systems never add a discrete card.
Cooling follows the 35 W mobile pattern with a single fan and a board specific heatsink. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide notes laptop heatsinks stay board specific.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G1 the 480M sits near the top of the Arrandale i5 range, so later steps are Sandy Bridge i5 M parts on Socket G2 boards. Memory and storage move only with a new laptop. A nearby socketed Arrandale reference is the Core i3-390M class on the same socket.
A full platform change needs a new laptop. Keep the old body for spare use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i5-480M use?
It uses Socket G1 in rPGA988A form.
Does the Core i5-480M have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Two cores give 4 threads.
What memory does the Core i5-480M use?
DDR3-800 and 1066, two channels, up to 8 GB.
Can the Core i5-480M be upgraded?
Yes, where the laptop allows lid access and the BIOS lists the faster part.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i5-480M 2.66GHz Socket G1 (microdream, Arrandale, HD 500 to 766)
- Socket G1 Processor List (480M Arrandale 2.667 to 2.933 GHz Jan 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .