What You Need to Know About Intel Quad-Core Processors With an LGA 1150 Socket

The socket is the part of the computer that provides a physical and an electrical connection between the processor and the main circuit board. The pins in the processor connect directly to the slot in the motherboard. LGA 1150, also known as Socket H3, is used exclusively in certain Intel CPUs, and it was designed as a replacement for LGA 1155.

How many pins does an LGA 1150 processor contain?

As the name implies, these processors have 1,150 protruding pins that connect to the motherboard. No other external methods are required to attach it. They are compatible with Intel B85, H81, H87, Q85, Q87, Z87, H97, and Z97 desktop chipsets as well as the Intel C226 server chipset. They can be paired with DDR3 RAM modules that have data rates up to 1600 MHz.

What factors should you consider when looking for processors?

  • Frequency: This measures the speed of each core. Every CPU has a base clock speed, but you can also boost the speed beyond its base frequency. This is a process known as overclocking. Intel Turbo Boost and Enhanced SpeedStep technology will boost the frequency automatically in response to demanding tasks.
  • Memory cache: The cache is a small pool of fast memory embedded directly on the CPU, thus reducing the time and power cost of accessing the main RAM. The CPU will first check the level one cache, then level two, and finally, level three before accessing the external memory. Intel's Smart Cache technology allows each core to access the cache memory dynamically.
  • Thermal design power: This measures the amount of heat, measured in watts, the processor can safely dissipate. It is also a useful proxy for power consumption.
  • GPU model: Every Intel CPU is paired up with a matching GPU, or graphics processor. The 4th-Generation Intel Core processors are designed to work with the Intel HD Graphics 4600 GPU. These GPUs are integrated directly into the motherboard or the same die as the central processing unit, and they can share memory with the main system RAM. Various video outputs are supported, including VGA, DVI, and HDMI. However, Intel CPUs are compatible with all types of dedicated graphics cards as well. A dedicated card will have its independent memory that is used exclusively for graphics.

Are Intel processors interchangeable with different sockets?

In general, they are not interchangeable with each other. If you want to upgrade your processor, you will need to change other components in your computer. However, if you have a heatsink or fan designed for an LGA 1150 CPU, then you can use it with an LGA 1151, LGA 1155, and LGA 1156 due to their physical similarities.

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