Each generation is different, mainly in terms of architecture and technology.
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The first generation is represented by the i7 920\/i7 870 45 nm process
Core code\/architecture: Nehalem
The i7 920 is an LGA 1366 pin that supports 3 channels of memory
Only for x58 chipset motherboards
The i7 870 is an LGA1156 pin that supports dual-channel memory
ADAPTS to H55\/P55 chipset motherboard.
The i5\/i3 is identical to the i7 870.
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The second-generation SNB is represented by the i7 2600 32 nm process
Core code\/architecture Sandy Bridge (SNB)
SNB i7, i5, and i3 are LGA 1155 pins that support dual-channel memory
ADAPTS to H\/P\/Z 6* series motherboards (Upgraded BIOS supports IVB)
Compared with the first generation, the memory throughput is more optimized
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The third generation of i7 3770K represents the 22 nm process
Core code\/architecture: Ivy Bridge (IVB)
IVB i7\/i5 are LGA 1155 pins
B\/H\/Z 7 Series chipsets (compatible with SNB)
The H\/P\/Z 6* series needs to upgrade the BIOS and still supports dual-channel memory
The IVB i3 is still not available.
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There is also an NB processor family between SNB and IVB
Represented by i7 3960X
The core code\/architecture is Sandy Bridge-EP
LGA 2011 pins fit the x79 chipset motherboard
Support 4-channel memory for the current Intel's top platform.