The Intel Core i5 3470 is a processor that has been a subject of interest for many technology enthusiasts and professionals alike. Released in the third quarter of 2012, this CPU belongs to the third generation of Intel Core processors, also known as Ivy Bridge. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the i5 3470, exploring its generation, architecture, and the features that make it a notable processor in the history of computing.
Introduction to the Ivy Bridge Generation
The Ivy Bridge generation of Intel Core processors was a significant milestone in the evolution of computing technology. Launched in 2012, Ivy Bridge processors were designed to provide improved performance and reduced power consumption compared to their predecessors, the Sandy Bridge processors. The Ivy Bridge architecture was built on a 22nm manufacturing process, which allowed for more transistors to be packed into a smaller space, resulting in faster processing speeds and lower power requirements.
Key Features of Ivy Bridge Processors
Ivy Bridge processors, including the i5 3470, boasted several key features that enhanced their performance and efficiency. Some of the notable features include:
Improved integrated graphics processing, with the introduction of Intel HD Graphics 4000, which provided better graphics performance and support for more displays.
Enhanced Turbo Boost technology, which allowed the processor to dynamically adjust its clock speed to optimize performance and power consumption.
Support for DDR3 memory, with speeds of up to 1600 MHz, which improved system memory bandwidth and overall system performance.
Architecture and Specifications
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a quad-core processor, with a base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and a maximum Turbo Boost speed of 3.6 GHz. It has a cache memory of 6 MB and supports dual-channel DDR3 memory. The processor also features Intel HD Graphics 2500, which provides decent graphics performance for general computing tasks and casual gaming. The i5 3470 has a TDP of 77W, which is relatively low compared to other processors in its class, making it a good option for systems where power consumption is a concern.
Performance and Applications
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a versatile processor that can handle a wide range of applications, from general computing tasks to more demanding workloads. Its quad-core design and high clock speeds make it well-suited for tasks such as video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming. The processor’s integrated graphics capabilities also make it a good option for systems where a dedicated graphics card is not required.
Gaming Performance
The i5 3470’s gaming performance is decent, considering its integrated graphics capabilities. It can handle casual gaming and less demanding games at lower resolutions and detail settings. However, for more demanding games and higher resolutions, a dedicated graphics card is recommended to achieve smoother performance and better graphics quality.
Overclocking and Tweaking
The i5 3470 can be overclocked to achieve higher clock speeds and improved performance. However, overclocking requires careful tweaking of system settings and cooling to prevent overheating and damage to the processor. Experienced users can use tools such as Intel Extreme Tuning Utility to adjust the processor’s clock speeds, voltage, and other settings to achieve optimal performance.
Comparison with Other Processors
The Intel Core i5 3470 can be compared to other processors in its class, such as the i5 3570K and the AMD FX-8350. The i5 3570K is a higher-end processor with a higher clock speed and unlocked multiplier, making it a better option for overclocking and more demanding workloads. The AMD FX-8350, on the other hand, is a higher-end processor from AMD, with a higher clock speed and more cores, but it consumes more power and has lower single-threaded performance.
| Processor | Clock Speed | Cores/Threads | Cache Memory | TDP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i5 3470 | 3.2 GHz | 4/4 | 6 MB | 77W |
| Intel Core i5 3570K | 3.4 GHz | 4/4 | 6 MB | 77W |
| AMD FX-8350 | 4.0 GHz | 8/8 | 8 MB | 125W |
Conclusion
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a capable processor that belongs to the third generation of Intel Core processors, also known as Ivy Bridge. Its quad-core design, high clock speeds, and improved integrated graphics capabilities make it a versatile processor that can handle a wide range of applications. While it may not be the most powerful processor available, the i5 3470 is a good option for systems where power consumption is a concern and a dedicated graphics card is not required. Its affordability and decent performance make it a popular choice among budget-conscious users and system builders. As technology continues to evolve, the i5 3470 remains a notable processor in the history of computing, offering a balance of performance, power efficiency, and affordability that is hard to match.
What generation does the Intel Core i5 3470 belong to?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is part of the third generation of Intel Core processors, which was launched in 2012. This generation is based on the Ivy Bridge microarchitecture, which brought significant improvements in performance and power efficiency compared to its predecessor, the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture. The Ivy Bridge microarchitecture introduced a new 22nm manufacturing process, which allowed for more transistors to be packed into a smaller area, resulting in improved performance and reduced power consumption.
The third generation of Intel Core processors, including the Core i5 3470, offered a range of features and improvements, including increased clock speeds, improved integrated graphics, and enhanced security features. The Core i5 3470, in particular, is a quad-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and a maximum turbo boost speed of 3.6 GHz. It also features 6 MB of cache memory and supports up to 32 GB of DDR3 memory. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 is a powerful and efficient processor that is well-suited for a range of applications, from gaming and video editing to general productivity and multitasking.
What are the key features of the Intel Core i5 3470?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a quad-core processor that offers a range of features and capabilities. It has a base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and a maximum turbo boost speed of 3.6 GHz, making it well-suited for demanding applications such as gaming and video editing. The processor also features 6 MB of cache memory, which helps to improve performance by reducing the time it takes to access frequently used data. Additionally, the Core i5 3470 supports up to 32 GB of DDR3 memory, which provides ample memory for running multiple applications simultaneously.
In terms of graphics, the Intel Core i5 3470 features Intel HD Graphics 2500, which is a integrated graphics processing unit (GPU) that is capable of handling a range of graphics tasks, from basic productivity to more demanding applications such as gaming and video playback. The processor also supports a range of security features, including Intel Secure Key and Intel OS Guard, which help to protect against malware and other security threats. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 is a powerful and feature-rich processor that is well-suited for a range of applications and use cases.
How does the Intel Core i5 3470 compare to other processors in its class?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a mid-range processor that competes with other processors in its class, such as the AMD FX-6300 and the Intel Core i5 3570. In terms of performance, the Core i5 3470 offers a good balance of clock speed and core count, making it well-suited for a range of applications, from gaming and video editing to general productivity and multitasking. Compared to the AMD FX-6300, the Core i5 3470 offers better single-threaded performance and power efficiency, but the FX-6300 has a higher clock speed and more cores.
In comparison to the Intel Core i5 3570, the Core i5 3470 offers similar performance and features, but at a lower price point. The Core i5 3570 has a slightly higher clock speed and more advanced graphics capabilities, but the Core i5 3470 is still a powerful and capable processor that is well-suited for most users. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 is a good choice for users who need a balance of performance and affordability, and it is a popular option for gamers, content creators, and general users who need a reliable and efficient processor.
What are the benefits of using the Intel Core i5 3470 for gaming?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a popular choice for gamers due to its strong performance and affordability. The processor’s quad-core design and high clock speed make it well-suited for demanding games that require multiple cores and high processing power. Additionally, the Core i5 3470’s integrated graphics capabilities, although not as powerful as a dedicated graphics card, are still capable of handling less demanding games and graphics tasks. The processor’s support for Intel Turbo Boost technology also helps to improve gaming performance by allowing the processor to temporarily increase its clock speed when needed.
In terms of specific benefits, the Intel Core i5 3470 offers a range of advantages for gamers, including fast loading times, smooth gameplay, and support for multiple monitors and high-resolution displays. The processor’s strong single-threaded performance also makes it well-suited for games that rely heavily on single-core processing, such as many older games and less demanding titles. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 is a good choice for gamers who need a powerful and efficient processor that can handle demanding games and graphics tasks, and it is a popular option for gamers who are looking for a balance of performance and affordability.
Can the Intel Core i5 3470 be overclocked?
The Intel Core i5 3470 can be overclocked, but it requires a motherboard that supports overclocking and a good cooling system to prevent overheating. The processor’s multiplier is unlocked, which allows users to adjust the clock speed and other settings to achieve higher performance. However, overclocking the Core i5 3470 can be challenging, and it requires a good understanding of the processor’s architecture and the overclocking process. Additionally, overclocking can void the processor’s warranty and may reduce its lifespan if not done properly.
To overclock the Intel Core i5 3470, users will need to adjust the processor’s settings in the motherboard’s BIOS or using a software utility such as Intel Extreme Tuning Utility. The processor’s clock speed, voltage, and other settings can be adjusted to achieve higher performance, but it is important to monitor the processor’s temperature and adjust the settings carefully to avoid overheating or damage. Overall, overclocking the Intel Core i5 3470 can be a good way to improve its performance, but it requires careful planning and execution to achieve the best results.
What is the power consumption of the Intel Core i5 3470?
The Intel Core i5 3470 has a thermal design power (TDP) of 77 watts, which is relatively low compared to other processors in its class. The processor’s power consumption is managed by Intel’s SpeedStep technology, which adjusts the clock speed and voltage to balance performance and power efficiency. The Core i5 3470 also supports Intel’s C6 state, which allows the processor to enter a low-power state when idle, reducing power consumption and heat generation.
In terms of actual power consumption, the Intel Core i5 3470 typically consumes around 65-75 watts under load, and around 10-20 watts when idle. The processor’s power consumption can vary depending on the system configuration, workload, and other factors, but overall, it is a relatively power-efficient processor that is well-suited for a range of applications, from gaming and video editing to general productivity and multitasking. The Core i5 3470’s low power consumption also makes it a good choice for users who need a processor that can run cool and quiet, and it is a popular option for users who are building a home theater PC or other low-power system.