Intel Core i7-3930K socket: LGA 2011
The Intel Core i7-3930K uses the LGA 2011 socket. It is a 130 W six core Sandy Bridge-E HEDT part at 3.2 GHz with turbo to 3.8 GHz and an unlocked multiplier.
- Socket
- LGA 2011
- Launched
- November 2011
- Cores and threads
- 6 and 12
- Base power
- 130 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge-E
- Segment
- HEDT
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 3.2 / 3.8 GHz
Intel Core i7-3930K specifications
| Cores | 6 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 12 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge-E cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.2 GHz base, 3.8 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 12 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 130 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1600, four channels, up to 64 GB |
| PCI Express | 40 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | None (HEDT part, discrete card required) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | FCLGA2011 (52.5 × 45 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i7-3930K needs a motherboard with a LGA 2011 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| X79 enthusiast | X79 | 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 LGA 2011.
LGA 2011 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 2,011 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 52.5 × 45 mm |
| Introduced | November 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 quad channel, up to 1866 MT/s, up to 64 GB on desktop boards |
| Cooler mounting holes | 80 × 80 mm |
What the Core i7-3930K is
Intel Core i7-3930K is a six core Sandy Bridge-E desktop processor that Intel released in November 2011 for high end towers. It runs at 3.2 GHz base with turbo to 3.8 GHz and includes Hyper-Threading, so 6 cores give 12 threads. Cache is 12 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 130 W on a 32 nm process.
The K suffix marks an unlocked multiplier for X79 boards. Editing rigs and home servers used the extra cores and quad DDR3 bandwidth. There is no integrated graphics on this die, so a separate card is required.
Memory runs in four DDR3 channels, which suits large projects with many DIMMs. The chip launched alongside the X79 chipset for single socket HEDT boards.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-3930K fits LGA 2011 in FCLGA2011 form. X79 boards boot Sandy Bridge-E directly. Server Xeon E5 parts need Romley-EP boards rather than desktop X79, even though the socket matches.
The socket uses a load plate with a lever and a separate retention bracket. A board that lists the exact 3930K string is the safe choice for used builds.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1600, four channels, up to 64 GB on desktop X79 boards with 8 DIMM slots. Four matched modules give the rated bandwidth. ECC needs a server board and Xeon part instead.
PCI Express is 40 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0 certified speeds for graphics and fast storage, plus chipset lanes for the rest. Several cards fit without mainstream lane sharing limits.
Cooling uses the square ILM with an 80 by 80 mm pattern and no box cooler. Fit a tower or liquid unit rated above 130 W. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide covers mount patterns.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 2011 the 3930K can move to the 3960X for more cache and clocks on the same X79 board. Memory and storage carry over. A same socket six core reference is Intel Core i7-3960X.
A platform move to LGA 2011-v3 needs a new board and DDR4 memory. Keep the X79 rig for editing after a GPU refresh.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-3930K use?
It uses LGA 2011 on X79 boards.
Is the Core i7-3930K unlocked?
Yes. The K suffix marks an unlocked multiplier for X79 boards.
What memory does the Core i7-3930K use?
DDR3-1600, four channels, up to 64 GB on desktop X79 boards.
Does the Core i7-3930K have integrated graphics?
No. Sandy Bridge-E has no integrated graphics. A separate card is required.
Sources and verification
- Sandy Bridge (Wikipedia, 3930K 3.2 GHz turbo 3.8 12MB Nov 2011 LGA2011)
- Intel Core i7-3930K review (Tom's Hardware, Sandy Bridge-E, Dec 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .