Explore the Second Generation of Intel Core i5 LGA 1155 Processors

The second generation of Intel Core i5 processors was released in 2011. The 32nm microarchitecture of the devices was codenamed Sandy Bridge, and numerous manufacturers have used them in their systems. Whether you are upgrading or building a computer from the ground up, take a look at the different Intel Core i5 LGA 1155 units to see what is available.

What does LGA 1155 mean?

The LGA 1155 designation refers to the motherboard socket with which the Intel processors interface. It is essentially the model of socket with which the CPU is compatible. If you have a motherboard that has the LGA 1155 designation on it, it is most likely compatible with the second-generation i5 series.

What does Core i5 mean?

The term is a general reference by Intel to the processing power of the CPU relative to its two other Core-series processors. The other two in the series include the Core i3 and the Core i7. The Core i5 is a reliable mid-range processor that offers a good balance of power consumption, heat dissipation, and performance.

What are the specifications of 2nd Gen Core i5 processors?

All of these Intel Core CPUs are quad-core processors, meaning that they can handle four processing threads at a time. Running in tandem with the 6MB cache, more cores provide a better ability to multi-task in addition to running some programs faster. Their instruction sets are 64-bit-based, and Intels Thermal Monitoring Technologies prevent damage from overheating during intensive processing episodes.These Intel Core CPUs are capable of supporting up to 32 GB of DDR3 1066/1333 RAM. While each unit has its own base frequency, or basic processing speed, each one comes equipped with Intel Turbo Boost Technology. This allows the CPUs to speed up substantially when necessary at the expense of additional heat and power consumption. There are quite a few Core i5 CPUs in the Sandy Bridge generation, but there are a few notable examples that can provide a general summary of their features. These include:

  • Core i5-2500K: This Intel Core unit has a processor base frequency of 3.30 GHz, but can be boosted to 3.70 GHz. Intel HD Graphics 3000 is integrated with the chipset.
  • Core i5-2400S: This unit runs at 2.50 GHz and can be turbo-boosted to 3.30 GHz. It is designed for low power consumption and minimal heat generation. It is equipped with HD Graphics 2000.
  • Core i5-2500T: Running at a base 2.30 GHz and a turbo-boosted maximum of 3.30 GHz, this unit is dubbed a green processor. It consumes 50W less power than the other units in the series.

Do 2nd Gen Intel i5 processors come with graphics processing?

With the exception of the Core i5-2380P, i5-2450P, and i5-2550K, the second-generation CPUs come with integrated graphics processing. This comes in the form of Intels HD Graphics, which runs a GPU frequency of between 850 and 1100 MHz. The series vary between HD Graphics 2000 and HD Graphics 3000. The integrated GPU of these units is capable of handling displays, some video games, and supplementing some graphics or video editing software.

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