i3-2102?

[Coup27]

What's the deal with this?

 

[IGemini]

I'm guessing it's Intel's new approach to labeling CPU stepping revisions.

 

[paperwastage]

http://ark.intel.com/compare/55448,53422,53424

looks like i3-2102 is "upgradable". from ark.intel, doesnt have a customer price, so most likely OEM that allows customers to upgrade via a coupon code.

https://retailupgrades.intel.com/Page.aspx?Name=Benefits
http://www.tomshardware.com/news/upgrade-card-Core-i3-sandy-bridge-Best-Buy-scratch-off,13225.html
http://news.softpedia.com/news/Upgr...Cache-Clocks-and-Hyper-Threading-216748.shtml

Meanwhile, the Core i3-2102 unlocks into the Core i3-2153, jumping, in terms of clock speed, from 3.1 GHz to 3.6 GHz.

i wonder if anyone's been able to find out how Intel does this "unlocking"

EDIT
https://retailupgrades.intel.com/FAQ.aspx

If I replace my motherboard with a new one, will the upgrade still be installed?
No, for hardware failure, return to the place of purchase. You will need to request them to "Re-Activate" your Upgrade Card Pin#. This will allow you to re-use the existing upgrade card you previous purchased. Be sure to have your Serial # (SN#) ready when you call Gateway. Example of what to find: SN#: 123CA12345678912D12345 (example only).