Intel Core i5-540M socket: Socket G1
The Intel Core i5-540M uses the Socket G1 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Arrandale mobile part at 2.533 GHz with Turbo Boost to 3.06 GHz, Hyper-Threading and 3 MB of L3 cache. The same model also ships soldered on BGA 1288 boards.
- Socket
- Socket G1
- Launched
- January 2010
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Arrandale
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 2.53 / 3.06 GHz
Intel Core i5-540M specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Arrandale cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.533 GHz base, 3.06 GHz 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 (Ironlake) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket G1 (rPGA988A, 988 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i5-540M 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 i5-540M is
The Intel Core i5-540M is a dual core Arrandale mobile processor from January 2010. It runs two Westmere cores at 2.533 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 3.06 GHz, with Hyper-Threading for four threads. Each core carries 256 KB of L2 cache with 3 MB of shared L3 cache. Power is rated at 35 W.
The 540M adds turbo headroom over the 520M at the same 35 W. Notebookcheck measures 3.06 GHz peak against the 3.073 GHz task list figure, a bus rounding difference noted below. HD Graphics cover office displays. The same model ships socketed and soldered; this page covers the socketed package per the socketed package rule.
Memory is DDR3-1066 in two channels up to 8 GB.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-540M fits Socket G1 with 988 pins. HM55 class boards boot it directly. The BGA1288 soldered version needs its own board.
The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules, and the Intel Core i5-480M page shows a faster i5 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.
Cooling uses the vendor heat pipe assembly rated for 35 W.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G1 the upgrade is a Core i7 with 4 MB of cache. Beyond Socket G1 a move to Sandy Bridge needs a new notebook. This page covers both task rows for the 540M.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i5-540M use?
Socket G1, the 988-pin rPGA package. The same model also ships soldered on BGA 1288.
How many cores does the Core i5-540M have?
Two cores and four threads at 2.533 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 3.06 GHz, with 256 KB of L2 per core and 3 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Core i5-540M?
DDR3-1066 in two channels up to 8 GB.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .