Intel Core i7-3517U socket: BGA 1023
The Intel Core i7-3517U uses the BGA 1023 package. It is a soldered 17 W Ivy Bridge part for thin laptops and cannot be replaced.
- Socket
- BGA 1023
- Launched
- June 2012
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 17 W
- Codename
- Ivy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (soldered)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 1.9 / 3.0 GHz
Intel Core i7-3517U specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Ivy Bridge cores on 22 nm |
| Clocks | 1.9 GHz base, up to 3.0 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 4 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 17 W |
| Manufacturing process | 22 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe lanes from the CPU (layout varies by board design) |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 4000 (350 MHz to 1150 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | BGA 1023 (FCBGA, 1023 balls, 31 × 24 mm, soldered) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i7-3517U needs a motherboard with a BGA 1023 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the BGA 1023 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
BGA 1023 at a glance
| Type | BGA, 1,023 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 31 × 24 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 and DDR3L, two channels, 1066 to 1600 MT/s |
| Cooler mounting holes | Not applicable (soldered) |
What the Core i7-3517U is
Intel Core i7-3517U is a dual core Ivy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in June 2012 for thin laptops. It runs at 1.9 GHz base with Turbo Boost 2.0 to 3.0 GHz, with 4 MB Intel Smart Cache and Hyper-Threading for 4 threads. Power is rated at 17 W on a 22 nm process. The extra cache over the i5 U parts is the main draw for office multitasking.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 4000 at 350 MHz to 1150 MHz. The block handles the internal panel plus an external monitor, with Quick Sync for video work. The memory controller takes DDR3, DDR3L and DDR3-RS at 1333 or 1600 MT/s, and the chip adds VT-x, VT-d and AES support.
Thin bodies pair it with HM76 or HM77 class boards, small SSDs and soldered or slotted RAM. Bursts to 3.0 GHz open apps quickly, while long loads respect the 17 W limit. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the soldered package.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-3517U solders to BGA 1023 with 1,023 balls in a 31 by 24 mm footprint and cannot be moved. Makers qualify each thin model with a fixed board and BIOS, so another BGA part is not a field upgrade. Boards use slim layouts with careful fan curves for 17 W.
The BIOS must list the exact Core i7-3517U string. Power delivery is light, so selection turns on screen, ports and battery rather than delivery. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide notes soldered mobile parts have no desktop mount.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB. The thinnest bodies solder RAM and lock size at purchase, while others keep SODIMM slots. Two channels help the HD 4000 block that shares system memory.
PCI Express lanes come from the CPU in a board specific layout. Thin boards use lanes for Wi-Fi and SSDs, not for graphics slots. Drive speed and wireless quality shape the feel more than lane counts.
Cooling is a slim 17 W spreader and fan. Bursts to 3.0 GHz need clear vents, since heat caps thin laptops quickly. Cleaning the fan restores boost behavior more reliably than software tweaks.
Upgrade paths
There is no CPU upgrade path on soldered BGA 1023. The Core i7-3517U cannot be removed, so a faster laptop means a new board or a new device. A nearby BGA comparison is Intel Core i5-3437U, which trades cache for a similar envelope.
A platform move means a new thin laptop on a current BGA package with DDR4 memory and modern wireless. Keep the old machine for travel duty after wiping the drive.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-3517U use?
It uses BGA 1023, a soldered package. The chip cannot be removed.
Can the Core i7-3517U be upgraded?
No. Soldered BGA parts need a board or laptop replacement for more speed.
What memory does the Core i7-3517U use?
DDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB. Thin bodies may solder the RAM.
Does the Core i7-3517U have turbo?
Yes. Base is 1.9 GHz with turbo to 3.0 GHz within 17 W.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .