Asus Replenishes X99 Motherboard Lineup with 4 New Items

Asus adds to its renowned lineup of X99 motherboards a set of new solutions. All the greenhorns are based on Intel X99 chipset targeting socket LGA2011-v3 platforms. Thus, they support the installation of Haswell-E & Broadwell-E CPUs (Intel Core i7). The boards brag about the incorporation of multiple innovations and technologies. The latter include: 

— OC Socket ensures more efficient CPU & memory overclocking;

— Asus Aura offers RGB backlight and allows for the connection of additional LED stripes;

— 5-way Optimization helps in fine tuning of system components;

— Asus SafeSlot provides for an enforced framework of PCIe slots.

Motherboard Asus X99-Deluxe II features the following specifications:

— memory subsystem: 8 DIMM slots for DDR4 memory with 3333 MHz frequency, up to 128 GB;

— storage subsystem: 2 M.2 slots, 2 U.2 slots, 1 SATA Express, 8 SATA 6 Gb/sec;

— audio subsystem: Crystal Sound 3;

— network: LAN – Intel I218-V, Intel I211-AT; Wi-Fi – 3.3, 802.11a/ac/b/g/n;

— expansion slots: 1 PCIe 2.0 x1, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 4 PCIe 3.0 x16;

— USB connectivity: 2 USB 3.1 Type-A, 1 USB 3.1 Type-C, 8 USB 3.0;

— availability of ThunderboltEX 3 expansion card.

Its companion, mainboard Asus X99-A II comes equipped the following way:

— memory subsystem: 8 DIMM slots for DDR4 memory with 3333 MHz frequency, up to 128 GB;

— storage subsystem: 1 M.2 slot, 1 U.2 slot, 1 SATA Express, 8 SATA 6 Gb/sec;

— audio subsystem: Crystal Sound 3;

— network: LAN – Intel I218-V;

— expansion slots: 1 PCIe 2.0 x1, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 3 PCIe 3.0 x16;

— USB connectivity: 1 USB 3.1 Type-A, 1 USB 3.1 Type-C, 8 USB 3.0;

— availability of Thunderbolt Ready.

The third new-comer, Asus X99-E boasts such technical specs:

— memory subsystem: 8 DIMM slots for DDR4 memory with 3200 MHz frequency, up to 128 GB;

— storage subsystem: 1 M.2 slot, 1 SATA Express, 8 SATA 6 Gb/sec;

— audio subsystem: Crystal Sound 3;

— network: LAN – Intel I218-V;

— expansion slots: 2 PCIe 2.0 x1, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 4 PCIe 3.0 x16;

— USB connectivity: 1 USB 3.1 Type-C, 8 USB 3.0;

— availability of Thunderbolt Ready.

Finally, the last motherboard model – Asus ROG Strix X99 Gaming – is furnished with the following components:

— memory subsystem: 8 DIMM slots for DDR4 memory with 3333 MHz frequency, up to 128 GB;

— storage subsystem: 1 M.2 slot, 1 U.2 slot, 1 SATA Express, 8 SATA 6 Gb/sec;

— audio subsystem: SupremeFX, Sonic Radar II;

— network: LAN – Intel I218-V; Wi-Fi – 2x2, 802.11 a/ac/b/g/n (MU-MIMO support);

— expansion slots: 2 PCIe 2.0 x1, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 3 PCIe 3.0 x16;

— USB connectivity: 3 USB 3.1 Type-A, 1 USB 3.1 Type-C, 8 USB 3.0;

— availability of Thunderbolt Ready.

New Riing Silent 12 Pro Cooler from Thermaltake Was Spotted

Thermaltake hit the market with an exceptional CPU cooler, entitled Riing Silent 12 Pro. The model is available in two color palettes: blue & red. There the differentiation dropped. Both greenhorns support the majority of modern PC platforms, including Intel Socket LGA2011-3/775/115x/1366/2011 & AMD Socket FM1/FM2/AM2/AM2+/AM3/AM3+. 

Thermaltake Riing Silent 12 Pro coolers are able to cool down CPUs with the maximal TDP of 170 W. Their framework consists of 6 nickel-plated copper heatpipes, a voluminous heatsink with aluminum fins as well as a single 120-mm fan. The latter is based on hydraulic bearing, estimated for 40.000 hours of foolproof operation. 

The included fan might rotate within the range from 500 to 1400 RPM. Its blades are sure to provide for up to 53 CFM airflow at up to 19 dB noise. The connection of a fan is realized via a 4-pin connector. Furthermore, the user is free to employ an additional LNC adapter which reduces fan rotational range (300-700 RPM) and noise level to 12 dBA.

WD to Release 6 TB Purple HDD

WD Purple, a much talked-of series of hard drives, has been replenished with a new 6 TB model. Similar to its comrades, this HDD is intended for CCTV systems. The new-comer is developed in 3.5-inch form-factor and equipped with 64 MB cache. This provides for the simultaneous interaction with 32 high-definition cameras in 24/7 operational mode. 

WD Purple 6 TB is thought to support the following vital technologies:

— Advanced Format Technology (AFT) allows increasing data density on writing.

— AllFrame – if used jointly with data streaming commands via ATA bus, this technology allows eliminating the possibility of omitting the frames, due to the implementation of a unique cache management algorithm. It also supports micro-programs which help in preventing pixelization and undesirable pauses in video recording. 

— IntelliSeek helps in defining the most optimal search speed, depending on the current loading. It also reduces power consumption, noise level and vibration.

The new addition to the series will be available in late November at the price tag of 320 EUR. It will be backed by a 3-year’s limited warranty.

Greeting GT51CA Gaming Desktop from Asus

Asus has just unveiled another representative of ROG lineup – a powerful gaming desktop, entitled GT51CA. The greenhorn boasts an aggressive steel design, replenished by a 4-zone LED backlight. The latter allows choosing among 8 million colors as well as several lighting modes. ‘OC’ mode automatically activates the backlight on overclocking process (by pushing Turbo Gear button). The case features 587x584x262 mm dimensions to fit any environment.

Asus ROG GT51CA comes with one of two available Intel Core CPUs: i5-6600K, running at 3.5/3.9 GHz frequency (4.3 GHz in OC mode), or i7-6700K, yielding 4.0/4.2 GHz frequency (4.6 GHz in OC mode). Both variations are targeting Intel Z170 platform. The CPU is supplemented by DDR4-2133 MHz RAM (16-64 GB capacity). During overclocking its clock frequency might be increased up to 2400-2800 MHz index.

This desktop allows for the integration of one out of 5 permissible graphics cards of Nvidia GeForce series: GTX 970 (GDDR5, 4 GB), GTX 980 (GDDR5, 4 GB), GTX 980 SLI (GDDR5, 4 GB), GTX Titan X (GDDR5, 12 GB), GTX Titan X SLI (GDDR5, 12 GB). Storage subsystem is ready to accept HDD up to 3 TB capacity, a pair of M.2 PCIe 512 GB drives, M.2 SATA SSD, M.2 PCIe SSD. Besides, it’s feasible to expand the system’s facilities thanks to three PCIe x16 and the same number of PCIe x1 slots.

To continue, the ROG GT51CA runs under the management of Windows 10 Home OS. Its ODD section is able to accommodate slim DVD super multi & slim Blu-ray Combo drives. Audio subsystem is represented by 7.1-channel controller with support for ESS Hi-Fi components. Network facilities are realized by means on an integrated gigabit Ethernet port as well as optional NFC, Bluetooth 4.1 & Wi-Fi 802.11ac modules.


The case is rich in various interfaces, located on the front and rear panels. Thus, the front I/O includes a pair of 3.5-mm audio ports, a pair of USB 3.0 ports, a single USB 3.1 Type-A, and a single USB 3.1 Type-C port. In its turn, the rear I/O panel houses audio ports, PS/2 Combo, RJ-45, a couple of USB 2.0 ports, and six USB 3.0 ports.

In addition, this desktop model comes equipped with a dedicated Hydro Overclocking liquid cooler. Air cooling is ensured by a set of onboard/optional fans.

ASRock Unleashes Hyper OC Series of Overclocking-Oriented Mainboards

ASRock is thought to be an innovator in the development of hardware know-hows. The Computex 2016 came as no exclusion: the company introduced a lineup of overclocked mainboards which joined Hyper OC series. Initially, the lineup consisted of three models – H170 Pro4/Hyper, B150M Pro4/Hyper & H110M-DS/Hyper; further on, it will be replenished by three other models – Fatal1ty H170 Performance/Hyper, Fatal1ty B150 Gaming K4/Hyper & B150A-X1/Hyper.

As seen from the codenames, the motherboards are based on Intel B150, H170 and H110 chipsets which employ ASRock Hyper BCLK Engine controller; it overclocks Intel Skylake CPUs by means of BCLK alteration, without dislocating other components. The new-comers support the installation of superfast DDR4 RAM, graphics cards with PCI-e 3.0 x16 interfaces as well as voluminous drives (including Ultra M.2).

ASRock H170 Pro4/Hyper features the following specifications:
— chipset: Intel H170;
— memory: 4x DDR4;
— storage: 4x SATA III slots, 1x Ultra M.2;
— expansion slots: 1x PCI-e x16, 1x PCI-e x4, 3x PCI-e x1;
— audio subsystem: Realtek ALC892;
— network: LAN Intel i219V;
— USB connection: 8x USB 3.0, 4x USB 2.0.

To continue, ASRock B150M Pro4/Hyper boasts the following specs:
— chipset: Intel B150;
— memory: 4x DDR4;
— storage: 6x SATA III slots, 1x Ultra M.2;

— expansion slots: 1x PCI-e x16, 1x PCI-e x4, 2x PCI-e x1;
— audio subsystem: Realtek ALC892;
— network: LAN Intel i219V;
— USB connection: 6x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0.

ASRock H110M-DS/Hyper features such characteristics:
— chipset: Intel H110;
— memory: 2x DDR4;
— storage: 4x SATA III slots;
— expansion slots: 1x PCI-e x16, 1x PCI-e x1;
— audio subsystem: Realtek ALC887;
— network: LAN Realtek RTL8111GR;
— USB connection: 4x USB 3.0, 8x USB 2.0.

ASRock Fatal1ty H170 Performance/Hyper boasts such technical specs:
— chipset: Intel H170;
— memory: 4x DDR4;
— storage: 6x SATA III slots, 1x Ultra M.2;
— expansion slots: 1x PCI-e x16, 1x PCI-e x4, 1x PCI-e x1;
— audio subsystem: Realtek ALC1150, Purity Sound 3;
— network: LAN Intel i219V;
— USB connection: 7x USB 3.0, 6x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.1 Type-C.

ASRock Fatal1ty B150 Gaming K4/Hyper features such specifications:

— chipset: Intel B150;
— memory: 4x DDR4;
— storage: 6x SATA III slots;
— expansion slots: 1x PCI-e x16, 1x PCI-e x4, 1x PCI-e x1;
— audio subsystem: Realtek ALC1150, Purity Sound 3;
— network: LAN Qualcomm Atheros Killer E2400;
— USB connection: 6x USB 3.0, 6x USB 2.0.

Finally, ASRock B150A-X1/Hyper offers such facilities:
— chipset: Intel B150;
— memory: 4x DDR4;
— storage: 6x SATA III slots;
— expansion slots: 1x PCI-e x16, 1x PCI-e x4, 1x PCI-e x1;
— audio subsystem: Realtek ALC892;
— network: LAN Intel i219V;
— USB connection: 6x USB 3.0, 6x USB 2.0.

LG Offers 34UC88-B Monitor with a Bonus Game

LG has chosen a win-win sales strategy, offering a new 34-inch 34UC88-B monitor along with a free bonus game, entitled Tom Clancy’s The Division. The model itself boasts a slim stylish design with a curved display. The latter rests upon a thin stand that takes little space on the table surface. The monitor comes equipped with AH-IPS panel that ensures 3440x1440 resolution. 

LG 34UC88-B boasts fast response time – 5 ms and the widest possible viewing angles – 178/178 degrees H/V aspect. The display features 21:9 aspect ratio, 1000:1 static contrast & 5M:1 dynamic contrast index, 300 cd/m2 top brightness showings as well as 99% coverage in sRGB environment. 

The user will find a pair of 7-watt speakers onboard, a pair of HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and a couple of USB 3.0 ports. The support for Black Stabilizer technology enhances visibility in dark areas and maximizes detailing. The implementation of AMD FreeSync technology provides for a dynamic frequency synchronizing that minimizes various artifacts. 

Flicker-Safe technology eliminates backlight flickering just to relieve eyestrain. Likewise, Blue Light filter reduces blue light intensity in the spectrum, ensuring comfort visual perception. 

The recommended by the manufacturer price is $989.

Brand-New Nvidia GTX 1070 Graphics Adapter Review

Immediately following the release of a graphics adapter on a brand-new architecture (the Pascal) – Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 – the company has launched another Pascal-based solution: the GTX 1070. The greenhorn positions itself as a great overclocking tool that adds power to any modern gaming application. As distinct from its companion, it boasts a more affordable price ($379-$449); thus, it might be haunted by a larger audience.

Key Specifications

Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 features the following specifications:

— GPU: GP104-A1, Pascal microarchitecture, 16-nm technological process, 7200 million transistors, 64 ROPs, 120 TMUs;

— clock frequency: base – 1506 MHz, boost – 1683 MHz;

— memory: type — GDDR5, 256-bit bus, volume – 8 GB, efficient clock frequency – 8012 MHz, bandwidth – 256.3 Gb/sec; 

— power: peak consumption – 150 W in 3D mode, minimum 500-watt PSU;

— interface: PCI Express x16 3.0;

— video outputs: DL DVI-D, HDMI 2.0, 3x DisplayPort 1.4. 

It should be noted that the manufacturer disabled one Graphics Processing Cluster, consisting of five Streaming Multiprocessors, each of which houses 128 CUDA-cores. Therefore, the GPU lacks 640 stream processors, if compared with the GTX 1080 model.

PCB Design

The first peculiarity that hits the eye is the sameness of the GTX 1070 with its more powerful comrade, the GTX 1080, in terms of design. Similar to the flagship model, the new-comer accommodates a pair of protection panels on the reverse side of the PCB. The shroud speaks ‘GeForce GTX’ inscription, adorned with the backlight. Chrome-plated inserts are the other attraction of the card. 

The board features 268x102x37 mm dimensions & weighs 1022 g. The interface panel (that allows for the connection of up to 4 monitors) is equipped with a voluminous grille that ensures efficient heat dissipation. The model is furnished with a single 8-pin connector. There are also sockets for the integration of SLI bridges, necessary for the creation of multi-GPU configurations. 

The VRM subsystem is organized according to the 4+1 power circuit. Unlike the GeForce GTX 1080 which employs a new GDDR5X memory, this item still uses traditional GDDR5 chip (Samsung K4G80325FB-HC25). 

Cooling System

Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 copies its senior companion in the choice of cooling solution. It entails a voluminous heatsink, a fan, a smaller heatspreader at the reverse side of the PCB as well as a steel base which is responsible for the cooling of power & memory components. 

The base of the heatsink employs an independent vapor chamber that comes in direct contact with the GPU thanks to a thermal compound. The incorporated flat heatpipe is called to add to the cooler heat dissipation efficiency. The fan supports PWM technology; hence, the blades are able to rotate within 1000-4100 RPM speed range. 

Overclocking & Performance

In order to test overclocking potential of the GTX 1070 graphics adapter, the power limit has been increased to 112%, whereas the temperature limit has been switched to the 92 C degrees. The fans operated by 85% power, providing approximately 3400 RPM. The GPU voltage index remained unchanged. On such conditions, the adapter made it to add 165 MHz frequency or +11%. 

As far as performance showings are concerned, the GTX 1070 demonstrated decent results, if compared with the GTX 970 model. Thanks to an improved architecture and doubled memory volume, the greenhorn made it to surpass its predecessor by 53.7%-60.2% in the majority of gaming applications (without leveling) & by 63.0%-69.8% on activation of various AA algorithms.

Greeting 6 New GTX 1080 Videocards from MSI

Unlike the majority of rivals which made it to introduce one or two graphics adapters based on the GeForce GTX 1080 GPU, MSI decided to cover all segments. The company launched six new videocards, based on the Nvidia’s latest development. Each model combines a one-off design with rich functional, allowing gamers of all kinds to find an uncompromising solution. The full list of items includes: GTX 1080 SEA HAWK, GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G, GTX Armor 8G, GTX 1080 Armor 8G OC, GTX 1080 Aero 8G, and GTX 1080 Aero 8G OC.

All new-comers take Nvidia GP104-400 GPU as the basis (Pascal, 16 nm). The core features 2560 CUDA, 160 TMUs & 64 ROPs. It operates at 1607-1708 MHz frequency (base) with the possibility to overclock up to 1733-1847 MHz frequency (dynamic). The cards employ GDDR5X memory (8 GB, 256-bit bus) which nominal clock frequency makes up 2502 -2527 MHz and efficient index achieves some stunning 10100-10108 MHz.

MSI GeForce GTX 1080 SEA HAWK accommodates a preinstalled Corsair H55 Hydro liquid cooler of an enclosed type. It consists of a waterblock with a copper base, a set of hoses, a voluminous heatsink as well as a 120-mm fan. The card also features a radio-flow fan that is used for optimal heat dissipation. 

MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is differentiated by a black-and-red color palette. It boasts the incorporation of a powerful Twin Frozr VI cooler that encompasses a pair of fans (Torx 2.0), based on dual ball-bearings. The heatsink comes with oblate heatpipes which come in direct contact with the GPU surface. This cooling system is thought to support Zero Frozr technology & multi-color illumination

To continue, MSI GeForce GTX Armor 8G and MSI GeForce GTX Armor 8G OC house Armor 2X cooler which combines a pair of fans, a copper base, a few nickel-plated heatpipes, and an aluminum heatspreader. The Torx fans support Advanced Airflow Control technology that optimizes heat dissipation process; in addition, they feature Zero Frozr function that disables the fans when the GPU temperature is lower than 60 C degrees. 

Finally, videocards MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Aero 8G & MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Aero 8G OC are much like the reference Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 Founders Edition design. At the same time, they boast the implementation of Military Class IV hardware base as well as logo LED backlight. Efficient cooling is provided by Aero Exhaust system.