All Core i3 Models

25.03.10

Core i3 is the new Intel CPU aimed to value computers. It is the third Intel processor with an integrated memory controller (Core i7 and Core i5 were the first two). It is based on Core architecture, like Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Quad, but with several enhancements to increase performance ( Nehalem microarchitecture ). This CPU family is available in two different sockets, LGA1156 (for desktop computers) and PGA988 (for laptops).

Intel processors based on previous architectures (socket 775 and older) use an external memory controller located in the north bridge chip (also known as Memory Controller Hub, MCH). This means that on CPUs using this architecture the chipset (and therefore, the motherboard) is the component that sets the type and amount of memory you can install on the computer. Since on Core i3 (as well as on Core i5 and Core i7 CPUs) the memory controller is embedded in the CPU, it's the processor (and not the chipset) who determines which technology and amount of memory you may have installed on your system. The motherboard, however, may impose a limitation on the amount of memory you can install. The memory controller integrated on Core i3 accepts only DDR3 memory (up to 1.6 V; memory modules which require more voltage than this will not work and may even damage the processor). It supports dual-channel architecture with DDR3-1066 and DDR3-1333 memories on desktop models and DDR3-800 and DDR3-1066 on mobile versions.

Source: Hardware Secrets