Intel is expected to launch new Nehalem based processors later this year, which will also mark the debut of new LGA sockets. The global leading chip maker is expected to announce the arrival of the new LGA 1155, 1156 and 1567, and on that note, a couple of leaked photos have made their way on the Internet, displaying the design features of what is said to be Intel's next-generation sockets for upcoming Core i5 and Xeon processors.

 

The pictures surfaced on Intel's Design Development Tools site and were picked up by pcgameshardware.com. They appear to indicate that the giant manufacturer is getting ready for its future Core i5 processors and the new Nehalem-based Xeon server processors.

 

The LGA 1155 and 1156 sockets are designed for Core i5 CPUs, enabling PC users to take advantage of a performance level similar to that of the more expensive Core i7. However, the Core i5 processors will not be featured with integrated QPI technology or with triple-channel memory controller. Instead, these CPUs will boast a dual-channel DDR3 memory controller and PCI-Express controllers. These new sockets are designed to support the upcoming Lynnfield and Havendale processors, which should make their debut sometime in Q3 this year, according to previous reports.

 

In addition to the two Core i5-ready LGA 1155 and 1156 sockets, Intel also plans to release a new socket for its upcoming Xeon processors, designed on the same Nehalem architecture. A picture of the LGA 1567 has also been leaked on the Internet through Intel's Design Development Tool web page.

 

The chip maker will soon update its Core i7 processor lineup with the addition of the new 975 model, which comes clocked at 3.33GHz and is to become Intel's new flagship model. However, the upcoming Core i5 processors might be a bit more appealing to the public, as they are basically designed for the mainstream market segment.