Intel X99 | KitGuru https://www.kitguru.net KitGuru.net - Tech News | Hardware News | Hardware Reviews | IOS | Mobile | Gaming | Graphics Cards Fri, 27 Jan 2017 16:20:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.kitguru.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-KITGURU-Light-Background-SQUARE2-32x32.png Intel X99 | KitGuru https://www.kitguru.net 32 32 MSI X99A SLI Plus Motherboard Review https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/luke-hill/msi-x99a-sli-plus-motherboard-review/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/luke-hill/msi-x99a-sli-plus-motherboard-review/#comments Thu, 19 Nov 2015 08:05:05 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=275617 With Skylake chips still selling through retailers for a significantly greater price than Intel may have intended, the HEDT X99 platform quickly becomes an even more appealing option to power users. The six-core Haswell-E 5820K is faster than Skylake's flagship 6700K and is available for around £40 less. The next critical item in a similarly-priced …

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With Skylake chips still selling through retailers for a significantly greater price than Intel may have intended, the HEDT X99 platform quickly becomes an even more appealing option to power users. The six-core Haswell-E 5820K is faster than Skylake's flagship 6700K and is available for around £40 less. The next critical item in a similarly-priced Haswell-E vs Skylake build is a cost-effective X99 motherboard. Enter MSI's X99A SLI Plus.

MSI-X99A-SLI-Plus-1-650

Serving up the core features that one would expect from an X99 mainboard – 3-card SLI/XFire, 10 SATA ports, and a PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 connector – MSI is aiming for the value section of Intel's HEDT platform motherboard market. Scanning through the checkout at around £170, retailers are able to sell MSI's X99A SLI Plus as one of the lowest cost LGA 2011-3 motherboards available.

But with the added bonus of USB 3.1 to help boost its already-healthy feature set, MSI isn't aiming for bargain-basement performance brackets. So how does MSI manage to hit such an aggressive price point and do those compromises come at the expense of performance?

Features:

  • Supports Quad Channel DDR4-3333(OC) Memory
  • USB 3.1: Delivering speeds up to 10Gb/s, USB 3.1 offers performance twice as fast as a regular USB 3.0 connection.
  • Turbo M.2: delivering next generation M.2 Gen3 x4 performance with transfer speeds up to 32 Gb/s
  • SATA Express + USB 3.1 + SATA 6Gb/s
  • Multi-GPU: NVIDIA Quad SLI & AMD Quad CrossFire Support
  • OC Engine: For More Flexible BCLK Adjustments
  • USB Steel Power: Super Stable 5V Power & Better Signal Transmission over USB
  • Intel® Gigabit LAN: Always connected with Intel® Gigabit LAN networking
  • Military Class 4: Top Quality & Stability
  • OC Genie 4: Overclock in 1 Second
  • Click BIOS 4: Easily Fine-tune Your System
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Boxx unveils tiny mini-ITX workstation with 18-core Intel Xeon https://www.kitguru.net/desktop-pc/anton-shilov/boxx-technologies-unveils-tiny-mini-itx-workstation-with-18-core-intel-xeon/ https://www.kitguru.net/desktop-pc/anton-shilov/boxx-technologies-unveils-tiny-mini-itx-workstation-with-18-core-intel-xeon/#comments Wed, 30 Sep 2015 22:03:20 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=270135 Boxx Technologies, a well-known maker of workstations from the U.S., has introduced its new Apexx 1 mini-ITX workstation that can integrate an Intel Xeon microprocessor with up to 18 cores or a factory-overclocked Intel Core i7 chip with up to eight cores. The system comes with a specially-designed cooling solution and can offer unbeatable performance …

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Boxx Technologies, a well-known maker of workstations from the U.S., has introduced its new Apexx 1 mini-ITX workstation that can integrate an Intel Xeon microprocessor with up to 18 cores or a factory-overclocked Intel Core i7 chip with up to eight cores. The system comes with a specially-designed cooling solution and can offer unbeatable performance for professionals, who need a lot of general-purpose horsepower. Still, the Apexx 1 has a number of compromises.

The Boxx Apexx 1 is based on the Asrock X99E-ITX/ac motherboard, which is equipped with a modified LGA2011-3 socket with additional pins (also known as the O.C. socket) that is designed to provide enhanced overclocking potential and which supports Intel’s latest Core i7 high-end desktop chips with up to eight cores as well as Intel Xeon E5 v3 central processing units with up to 18 cores and up to 45MB of cache. The Core i7-5960X “extreme” processor can be factory-overclocked by Boxx to 4.0GHz.

boxx_apexx_3

The Apexx 1 system can be equipped with up to 64GB of ECC memory, one high-end solid-state drive in M.2 form-factor (with PCIe 3.0 x4 interface), two 2.5” HDDs or SSDs. Due to size constraints, the system is only compatible with small form-factor professional graphics cards from AMD and Nvidia. The fastest adapter that Boxx offers is Nvidia’s Quadro K1200 with 4GB of memory. All Apexx 1 configurations include USB 3.0 ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 802.11ac wireless connectivity.

boxx_apexx_1

The Asrock X99E-ITX/ac mainboard only supports two DDR4 memory modules and thus cannot take advantage of quad-channel memory controllers of advanced CPUs. As a result, performance of multi-core microprocessors in applications that require memory bandwidth may be limited. Moreover, the workstation requires a special Boxx server-grade liquid-cooling system in order to cool-down chips with thermal design pwoer of 145W or higher, which may be rather noisy. Since at present the Asrock X99E-ITX/ac is the only mini-ITX platform for LGA2011-3 processors, the limitations is not something that can be avoided.

boxx_apexx_4

Boxx claims that the Apexx 1 was designed for such applications as Autodesk 3ds Max, Autocad, Maya, Revit, Cinema4D, SolidWorks, Catia and others.

The unique Boxx Apexx 1 workstations start at $5180 when equipped with an eight-core chip, Nvidia Quadro K1200, and so on. Top-of-the-range configuration with 18-core Intel Xeon E5-2699 v3 with 45MB cache, 64GB of DDR4 memory, 512GB M.2 SSD, two 1.2TB Serial ATA-6Gb/s SSDs and so on will cost around $15600.

boxx_apexx_2

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The Boxx Apexx 1 is the most powerful mini-ITX workstation ever. However, how balanced it is? If one needs a system for rendering, then it makes sense to install 18-core CPUs and sacrifice GPU performance. However, those, who need small form-factor, great graphics performance and decent CPU for rendering, should consider Apple Mac Pro, which packs two AMD FirePro graphics processors as well as Intel Xeon microprocessors with up to 12 cores.

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Intel slightly delays introduction of Core i7 “Broadwell-E” processors https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-slightly-delays-introduction-of-core-i7-broadwell-e-processors/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-slightly-delays-introduction-of-core-i7-broadwell-e-processors/#comments Tue, 08 Sep 2015 22:29:13 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=266803 Intel Corp. has decided to postpone release of its next-generation high-end desktop microprocessors code-named “Broadwell-E”, based on a media report. The new central processing units will be formally introduced in February or March, 2016, not in January, as expected before. According to excerpts from an Intel’s document published by BenchLife, Intel will start mass production …

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Intel Corp. has decided to postpone release of its next-generation high-end desktop microprocessors code-named “Broadwell-E”, based on a media report. The new central processing units will be formally introduced in February or March, 2016, not in January, as expected before.

According to excerpts from an Intel’s document published by BenchLife, Intel will start mass production of its Core i7 “Broadwell-E” processors in February or March, 2016. It is highly likely that Intel will formally introduce its new enthusiast-class chips at CeBIT trade-show in March. Based on the documents, Intel recently reconsidered release schedule of the new CPUs.

intel_broadwell_e_overview

Intel’s Core i7 Extreme “Broadwell-E” microprocessors will have six or eight cores with Hyper-Threading technology, quad-channel DDR4 memory controller (which will gain support for 2400MHz DDR4 SDRAM), 20MB last level cache, up to 40 PCI Express 3.0 lanes, unlocked multiplier and so on.

intel_broadwell_e_schedule

The new “Broadwell-E” chips will be drop-in compatible with existing mainboards based on Intel’s X99 core-logic set with LGA2011-3 sockets.

The reason why Intel decided to slightly postpone the release of “Broadwell-E” product is unknown, but Intel has already delayed launch of multiple processors made using 14nm fabrication process.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Keeping in mind that Intel’s Core i7 Extreme processors simply have no rivals, slight delay of the “Broadwell-E” will hardly affect business performance of the chip giant.

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EVGA adds USB 3.1 type-C to micro-ATX Intel X99 platform https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/evga-adds-usb-3-1-type-c-to-micro-atx-intel-x99-platform/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/evga-adds-usb-3-1-type-c-to-micro-atx-intel-x99-platform/#respond Sat, 01 Aug 2015 01:14:15 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=261717 EVGA has upgraded its micro-ATX mainboard for Intel Corp.’s high-end desktop processors. The new platform features all the advanced capabilities that the EVGA X99 Micro had to offer a year ago, but adds more Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports as well as one USB 3.1 type-C connector. The new motherboard is one of the first HEDT micro-ATX platforms …

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EVGA has upgraded its micro-ATX mainboard for Intel Corp.’s high-end desktop processors. The new platform features all the advanced capabilities that the EVGA X99 Micro had to offer a year ago, but adds more Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports as well as one USB 3.1 type-C connector. The new motherboard is one of the first HEDT micro-ATX platforms with USB 3.1 type-C receptacles.

The EVGA X99 Micro2 mainboard in micro-ATX form-factor for Intel Core i7 processors in LGA2011-3 packaging is equipped with six-phase voltage regulator module comprised of solid-state chokes that should provide high stability as well as moderate overclocking potential. The motherboard features four DDR4 DIMM slots, three PCI Express x16 slots for dual-slot two graphics cards and a solid-state drive (or three single-slot graphics cards), one M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x4) slot for SSDs, 10 Serial ATA-6Gb/s, 7.1-channel audio, Gigabit Ethernet, six USB 3.0 ports and one USB 3.1 type-C receptacle.

evga_x99_micro2_1

The miniature EVGA X99 Micro2 is built on an eight-layer printed circuit board, utilizes solid-state capacitors and other high-quality components.

The EVGA X99 Micro2 is available now for $229 in the U.S.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: If you are building a high-end micro-ATX desktop and want to have at least one USB 3.1 type-C port, then the EVGA X99 Micro2 is a thing to consider. For some reason, EVGA decided not to use Intel’s advanced “Alpine Ridge” controller for the premium platform, but probably utilized Asmedia’s ASM1142.

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Asus unveils ultimate micro-ATX Intel X99 mainboard for workstations https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asus-quietly-unveils-ultimate-micro-atx-intel-x99-mainboard-for-workstations/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asus-quietly-unveils-ultimate-micro-atx-intel-x99-mainboard-for-workstations/#comments Mon, 27 Jul 2015 20:52:22 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=260948 Asustek Computer has quietly unveiled what could be the world’s most advanced micro-ATX motherboard. The mainboard features Intel X99 core-logic and supports multi-GPU technologies, M.2 solid-state drives, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.1 and so on. The platform is designed for workstations. The Asus X99-M WS mainboard supports processors in LGA2011-3 form-factor, such as Intel Core i7 …

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Asustek Computer has quietly unveiled what could be the world’s most advanced micro-ATX motherboard. The mainboard features Intel X99 core-logic and supports multi-GPU technologies, M.2 solid-state drives, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.1 and so on. The platform is designed for workstations.

The Asus X99-M WS mainboard supports processors in LGA2011-3 form-factor, such as Intel Core i7 Extreme as well as Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 with up to 18 cores. The mainboard sports four DDR4 DIMM slots and fully supports quad-channel memory sub-system of modern high-end chips. The motherboard features three PCI Express x16 slots for graphics cards, one M.2 slot for solid-state drives, eight Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports for hard disk drives and SSDs, 7.1-channel Crystal Sound 2 audio, 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, two USB 3.1 type-A ports, two Gigabit Ethernet ports (Intel I210-AT) and so on.

asus_x99_matx

The mainboard has EATX power connectors and thus supports microprocessors with up to 140W thermal design power and even provides advanced overclocking capabilities. The X99-M WS motherboard sports eight-phase digital voltage regulator module.

The Asus X99-M WS platform will enable makers of workstations to build high-end systems with high-end processors with up to 18 cores, two graphics cards, advanced SSDs and other premium components in small form-factor.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The Asus X99-M WS is not the smallest Intel X99 platform available. Asus and Asrock offer mini-ITX mainboards for Intel’s LGA2011 processors. However, the X99-M WS is the most advanced workstation-class micro-ATX motherboard that supports all features that Intel’s HEDT platform has to offer as well as USB 3.1. The only thing that the new mainboard lacks is type-C USB 3.1 ports, which is regrettable.

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ASRock X99E-ITX/ac Mini-ITX Motherboard Review https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/luke-hill/asrock-x99e-itxac-mini-itx-motherboard-review/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/luke-hill/asrock-x99e-itxac-mini-itx-motherboard-review/#comments Thu, 11 Jun 2015 06:50:58 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=253431 The push for small yet powerful computers has been evident over the past few years. Many enthusiasts are no longer happy with an ATX motherboard and full tower chassis to house their single graphics card and pair of storage drives. Instead, budding aficionados are challenging themselves to create smaller and smaller systems without compromising on …

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The push for small yet powerful computers has been evident over the past few years. Many enthusiasts are no longer happy with an ATX motherboard and full tower chassis to house their single graphics card and pair of storage drives. Instead, budding aficionados are challenging themselves to create smaller and smaller systems without compromising on performance. Other than the personal novelty of housing a powerful system in a chassis not much bigger than a desktop printer, functional benefits of the mini-ITX eco-system include greater portability and reduced space requirements.

Aiming to offer an entirely new level of performance which has previously been out of reach for the small form factor (SFF) scene, ASRock offers up the most powerful mini-ITX motherboard ever to reach consumer marketplaces. Can ASRock's X99E-ITX/ac motherboard prove that you don't need to go big to go X99?

main-image_

Every iteration of Intel's High-End Desktop (HEDT) platform sees enthusiasts question the possibility of a mini-ITX motherboard sporting the chipset. And each time the questions are posed on various forums, the common conclusion is that the gargantuan HEDT CPU socket seems simply too big to fit on a 17x17cm footprint and optimise it for consumer use. Clearly, cramming the HEDT platform and its armada of features into a 289cm2 PCB area was a challenge that ASRock's engineers licked their lips at.

The X99E-ITX/ac cuts the number of DIMM slots to a pair and uses the LGA 2011-3 CPU socket with narrow ILM mounting holes. But that's pretty much where compromise ends. A host of SATA 6Gbps connections, USB 3.1 ports, dual NICs, 802.11ac WiFi, 32Gbps M.2, and a full-speed PCIe expansion slots render the word ‘compromise‘ irrelevant. Oh, and don't worry about overclocking capacity; ASRock removes the frequency-pushing shackles by means of a comprehensive UEFI and healthy power delivery system.

mITX-build-2-scale

Is ASRock's X99E-ITX/ac the go-to motherboard for a no-comprise SFF powerhouse? Or when it comes to Intel's HEDT platform, does size really matter?

Features:

  • ASRock Super Alloy
  • Supports Intel® Core™ i7 and Xeon® 18-Core Processors Family for the LGA 2011-3 Socket
  • X Series OC Socket, Digi Power, 6 Power Phase design
  • Supports Dual Channel DDR4 3200+(OC)
  • 1 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 Vertical mini-PCIe for WiFi + BT Module
  • 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection (Realtek ALC1150 Audio Codec), Supports DTS Connect
  • Intel® Dual Gigabit LAN with Teaming Function
  • 6 SATA3, 1 eSATA, 1 SATA Express, 1 Ultra M.2 (PCIe Gen3 x4 & SATA3)
  • WLAN: 2T2R Dual Band 802.11ac WiFi + BT v4.0 Module, ASRock WiFi 2.4/5 GHz Antenna
  • 2 USB 3.1 Type-A 10Gb/s, 6 USB 3.0 (2 Front, 4 Rear), 4 USB 2.0 (2 Front, 2 Rear)
  • Free Bundle : CPU Cooler, Water Cooling Mounting Plate, ASRock U3 to U2 Converter
  • Supports ASRock Full Spike Protection, APP Shop, A-Tuning, Full HD UEFI
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G.Skill demos 3.80GHz quad-channel DDR4 memory, 3GHz 128GB kit https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/g-skill-demos-3-80ghz-quad-channel-ddr4-memory-3ghz-128gb-kit/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/g-skill-demos-3-80ghz-quad-channel-ddr4-memory-3ghz-128gb-kit/#respond Thu, 04 Jun 2015 20:51:06 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=252749 G.Skill revealed its ultimate DDR4 memory kits at the Computex trade-show this week. The upcoming DDR4 kits from the renowned maker of advanced DRAM for enthusiasts, will be able to operate at clock-rates up to 3.80GHz in quad-channel mode. Besides, the company showcased the world’s first and only 128GB DDR4 memory kit rated to work …

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G.Skill revealed its ultimate DDR4 memory kits at the Computex trade-show this week. The upcoming DDR4 kits from the renowned maker of advanced DRAM for enthusiasts, will be able to operate at clock-rates up to 3.80GHz in quad-channel mode. Besides, the company showcased the world’s first and only 128GB DDR4 memory kit rated to work at whopping 3.0GHz.

G.Skill has been offering DDR4 memory kits with rather extreme clock-rates for about a year now. At Computex, the company revealed its new Ripjaws 4 16GB (4*4GB) sets of memory modules rated to run at 3800MHz with 1.35V voltage in quad-channel mode. Precise specifications of the memory solutions are still unclear, but the company is already showcasing them in action at Computex, reports Leo Waldock, a KitGuru editor, from Taipei, Taiwan.

gskill_ripjaws_3800mhz_asrock gskill_ripjaws_3800mhz_gbt

The two DDR4-3800 live demo systems are based on Intel’s Core i7-5960X processors as well as Gigabyte GA-X99-SOC-Champion and Asrock Fatal1ty X99M Killer motherboards. The Gigabyte motherboard can run G.Skill’s new DDR4 memory at 3.80GHz with CL19 28-28 timings, whereas the Asrock platform can run similar DDR4 modules at 3.80GHz with CL19 25-25 latency settings. The quad-channel kits require active cooling to work at extreme frequencies.

G.Skill is expected to release its new 3.80GHz DDR4 memory modules later this year, when it finalizes specifications. Pricing of such extreme DRAM solutions is unknown, but leading-edge performance always comes at a premium price.

gskill_ripjaws_3000

The manufacturer of advanced memory modules is also working on a new no-compromise quad-channel Ripjaws 4 DDR4 kit for ultra-high-end desktops and workstations. The new 128GB kit comprised of eight 16GB DDR4 modules based on Samsung’s 8Gb memory ICs [integrated circuits] will be rated to run at whopping 3.0GHz with CL14 14-14. For those, who want higher clock-rates, but still demand a lot of memory, G.Skill plans to offer a 64GB kit that runs at 3333MHz with CL15 15-15 timings. The set uses the same memory sticks as the 128GB one.

The price of the 128GB DDR4 3.0GHz memory kit is unknown, but expect it to cost north from $2000. The 64GB kit will also not be affordable.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: In the recent years G.Skill has truly become the producer of the most advanced and highest-performing memory modules for personal computers. What DRAM brand do you prefer? Share your thoughts in the comments below or on our Facebook page.

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Corsair’s 128GB DDR4 quad-channel kits for desktops start at $1755 https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/corsairs-128gb-ddr4-quad-channel-kits-for-high-end-desktops-start-at-1755/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/corsairs-128gb-ddr4-quad-channel-kits-for-high-end-desktops-start-at-1755/#respond Fri, 15 May 2015 01:43:14 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=249525 Corsair Memory on Thursday introduced three new 128GB quad-channel DDR4 memory kits aimed at ultra-high-performance desktops and workstations. The new memory solutions offer server-class capacities with rather high clock-rates, but their prices are beyond the reach of 99 per cent of PC enthusiasts. Corsair offers three 128GB quad-channel kits: two Dominator Platinum capable of operating …

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Corsair Memory on Thursday introduced three new 128GB quad-channel DDR4 memory kits aimed at ultra-high-performance desktops and workstations. The new memory solutions offer server-class capacities with rather high clock-rates, but their prices are beyond the reach of 99 per cent of PC enthusiasts.

Corsair offers three 128GB quad-channel kits: two Dominator Platinum capable of operating at 2400MHz with CL14 16-16-31 timings as well as at 2666MHz with CL15 17-17-35 latency settings, and Vengeance LPX rated to run at 2400MHz with CL16 16-16-31. All modules require 1.2V voltages and come with XMP 2.0 serial presence detect profiles that automatically set up maximum clock-speeds on compatible platforms.

corsair_vengeance_lpx_128GB_ddr4_dimm

The Dominator Platinum modules utilize custom printed circuit boards and sport sophisticated DHX heat-spreaders with user-swappable colored “light pipes” for customizable LED lighting. The Vengeance LPX modules feature eight-layer PCBs and standard aluminium heatspreaders.

DOM_DDR4_06

The 128GB quad-channel memory kits consist of eight 16GB modules based on Samsung’s 16Gb DDR4 DRAM devices. The modules are compatible with the Intel X99 platform and Core i7 “Haswell-E” or Xeon E5 v3 “Haswell-EP” processors.

Corsair officially positions its 128GB DDR4 memory kits for workstations used by content creators, who need “unprecedented amount of high-speed DDR4 SDRAM for memory-hungry applications.”

VENG_LPX_BLK_06

Corsair Dominator Platinum and Vengeance LPX DDR4 memory kits are available from Corsair.com and Corsair's distributors and resellers. All Corsair memory is backed with a limited lifetime warranty. The price of the Dominator Platinum 128GB DDR4-2666 is $2119, the Dominator Platinum 128GB DDR4-2400 is priced at $1754.99, whereas the Vengeance LPX 128GB DDR4-2400 costs $1979.99.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: A number of leading makers of enthusiast-class memory modules recently introduced their 128GB DDR4 quad-channel kits designed for high-end desktops. Looks like they expect that such memory module sets will actually be popular…

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Intel could cancel ‘Broadwell-E’ in favour of ‘Skylake-E’ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-could-cancel-broadwell-e-in-favour-of-skylake-e/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-could-cancel-broadwell-e-in-favour-of-skylake-e/#comments Wed, 13 May 2015 06:58:51 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=249193 Intel Corp.’s high-end desktop (HEDT) processors for enthusiasts deliver unbeatable performance, but are based on rather outdated micro-architectures compared to mainstream chips. In a bid to fix that, the world’s No. 1 maker of microprocessors for personal computers may abandon its next-generation “Broadwell-E” and bring more advanced “Skylake-E” forward. Intel released its Core i7 “Haswell-E” …

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Intel Corp.’s high-end desktop (HEDT) processors for enthusiasts deliver unbeatable performance, but are based on rather outdated micro-architectures compared to mainstream chips. In a bid to fix that, the world’s No. 1 maker of microprocessors for personal computers may abandon its next-generation “Broadwell-E” and bring more advanced “Skylake-E” forward.

Intel released its Core i7 “Haswell-E” microprocessors for extreme gamers and enthusiasts in September, 2014, and is expected to introduce more advanced “Broadwell-E” high-end desktop chips in the first quarter of 2016. By the time the “Broadwell-E” arrives, Intel will be offering “Skylake” processors with more advanced micro-architecture for all types of mainstream PCs and in certain cases such chips could beat more expensive HEDT offerings.

According to an alleged slide from Intel’s roadmap, which was published by Hardware.fi, the company intends to cancel release of its “Broadwell-E” in Q1 2016, but to unveil its “Skylake-E” chip in the Q3 2016. It is unclear whether the upcoming CPU will be compatible with the Intel X99 core-logic and LGA2011-3 platforms, but it is a likely scenario.

intel_roadmap_skylake_cannonlake_10nm

Intel’s “Skylake-E” central processing unit will be made using 14nm process technology and will feature all-new micro-architecture to deliver considerably higher performance compared to existing HEDT offerings from Intel.

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

Disclaimer: KitGuru could not verify authenticity of the slide at press time.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: In fact, it makes a great sense for Intel to cancel its “Broadwell-E” and concentrate on release of its “Skylake-E” instead. While this is theoretically possible, it should be kept in mind that all HEDT chips are based on silicon for Xeon E5 processors for servers. As a result, unless Intel cancels its upcoming “Broadwell-EP”, it can hardly cancel “Broadwell-E” and bring “Skylake-E” forward. Meanwhile, disrupting server plans is not something that Intel wants to do.

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Kingston unveils 3GHz 128GB DDR4 memory kit https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/kingston-unveils-3ghz-128gb-ddr4-memory-kit/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/kingston-unveils-3ghz-128gb-ddr4-memory-kit/#comments Tue, 12 May 2015 01:09:45 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=248967 Kingston Memory has introduced the world’s fastest 128GB DDR4 quad-channel memory kit that is rated to run at 3.0GHz. The kit is designed for high-end workstations based on Intel Corp.’s Core i7-5960X central processing unit. The kit consists of eight 16GB HyperX Predator modules that can run at 3000MHz with ultra-tight CL16 16-16-36 timings and …

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Kingston Memory has introduced the world’s fastest 128GB DDR4 quad-channel memory kit that is rated to run at 3.0GHz. The kit is designed for high-end workstations based on Intel Corp.’s Core i7-5960X central processing unit.

The kit consists of eight 16GB HyperX Predator modules that can run at 3000MHz with ultra-tight CL16 16-16-36 timings and standard voltages. It is highly likely that the new modules are based on Samsung Electronics 8Gb memory chips that power 16GB modules from other manufacturers.

Kingston’s high-performance quad-channel 128GB DDR4 kits are designed for Intel X99 platform and Core i7 5800/5900-series “Haswell-E” microprocessors. Thanks to 3GHz clock-rate, the new modules provide memory bandwidth of up to whopping 96GB/s. The modules fully support Intel’s XMP 2.0 technology and can set their clock-rates – which exceed standard JEDEC-approved DDR4 frequencies – automatically.

kingston_hyperx_predator_ddr4_dram

The 128GB kit weds server-class capacity with high-end desktop performance. Gamers and professionals who need a lot of fast memory will benefit from the quad-channel DDR4 solution.

Kingston did not reveal pricing of the new memory kit. Given its performance, it is highly likely that the price of the multi-module quad-channel memory solution will easily exceed £1000/$1400/€1400.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While 128GB of ultra-fast memory sounds “cool”, desktop computers do not need such extreme amount of memory, whereas workstations and servers are not designed for factory-overclocked modules. Therefore, it is unlikely that Kingston will sell a lot of such kits…

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Asrock unveils ultimate mini-ITX: Intel X99, O.C. socket, USB 3.1, 802.11ac, M.2 https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-unveils-ultimate-mini-itx-intel-x99-o-c-socket-usb-3-1-802-11ac-m-2/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-unveils-ultimate-mini-itx-intel-x99-o-c-socket-usb-3-1-802-11ac-m-2/#comments Sat, 14 Mar 2015 11:21:46 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=240012 Asrock, one of the world’s largest makers of mainboards, this week announced an ultimate mini-ITX mainboard that can not only enable small form-factor desktops with performance on par with full-size workstations, but also leading-edge functionality not found on many high-end PCs nowadays. The Asrock X99E-ITX/ac is the industry’s first mainboard in mini-ITX form-factor designed for …

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Asrock, one of the world’s largest makers of mainboards, this week announced an ultimate mini-ITX mainboard that can not only enable small form-factor desktops with performance on par with full-size workstations, but also leading-edge functionality not found on many high-end PCs nowadays.

The Asrock X99E-ITX/ac is the industry’s first mainboard in mini-ITX form-factor designed for Intel Core i7 “Haswell-E” microprocessors for high-end desktops (HEDTs). Thanks to the power provided by up to eight x86 cores, small-form-factor (SFF) systems built using the X99E-ITX/ac will offer tremendous performance in games and professional applications. Unfortunately, due to SFF constraints, there is a nasty sacrifice that Asrock had to make.

The new Asrock X99E-ITX/ac motherboard is equipped with modified LGA2011-3 socket with additional pins (also known as the O.C. socket) that supports Intel’s latest HEDT chips and allows to significantly increase their core voltages (Vcore) for maximum overclocking potential. The socket is narrower than desktop LGA2011-3 sockets, hence, it may not be compatible with all retail PC coolers. Since the mainboard is very tightly integrated, Asrock only could mount two 288-pin DDR4 DIMM slots for memory, thus, sacrificing quad-channel memory mode that Intel Core i7 Extreme processors support. While dual-channel DDR4 memory sub-system at 2133MHz provides up to 34GB/s of bandwidth, many heavily-threaded and bandwidth-hungry applications will clearly not be able to use the whole potential of Intel’s “Haswell-E” central processing units.

asrock_X99E-ITX_ac_Box-2

But while a compromise had to be made with memory configuration, Asrock made no compromises when it comes to functionality of the motherboard. The X99E-ITX/ac features one PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot for graphics cards, one enhanced M.2 slot that uses PCIe 3.0 x4 interconnection and provides up to 4GB/s of bandwidth for high-end solid-state drives, one SATA Express connector, four Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports, two USB 3.1 ports (powered by the Asmedia ASM1352R controller), six USB 3.0 ports, two Intel Gigabit Ethernet controllers, Wi-Fi 802.11ac wireless network controller, 7.1-channel audio and so on. The mainboard is built on an advanced printed circuit board and uses high-quality components for maximum reliability and durability. Asrock also bundles a special mini-ITX case-compatible CPU cooler with its platform.

Asrock will showcase its X99E-ITX/ac at the upcoming CeBIT 2015 trade-show in Hannover, Germany, next week. Pricing of the new motherboard is unknown, but since it is currently the world’s only LGA2011-3 mainboard in mini-ITX form-factor with plenty of features, we are talking about the price north from £200/$250.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The Asrock X99E-ITX/ac is, without any doubts, the most advanced mini-ITX mainboard announced so far. It is clearly not ideal: it does not support quad-channel DDR4 memory or multi-GPU configurations, it uses a custom server LGA2011-3 socket and therefore is not compatible with loads of PC coolers, it lacks USB 3.1 type-C ports. Moreover, while the usage of O.C. socket on a mini-ITX mainboard is a nice marketing move, it is unlikely that its capabilities will ever be used on this particular model. People who buy mini-ITX platforms want to build small form-factor systems, whereas increasing Vcore north from 1.2V – 1.3V requires rather extreme (and large) cooling solution. But even keeping in mind all the potential weaknesses the X99E-ITX/ac has (there are not a lot of them, though), if you need a high-performance SFF system, this is the motherboard to buy.

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Asrock to use O.C. socket on its Intel X99 mainboards https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-to-use-o-c-socket-on-its-intel-x99-mainboards/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-to-use-o-c-socket-on-its-intel-x99-mainboards/#comments Sat, 07 Mar 2015 10:11:58 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=239058 Just several months ago Asustek Computer started to use a special LGA2011-3 socket on its mainboards based on the Intel X99 core-logic in a bid to enhance overclocking potential of Intel Core i7 “Haswell-E” processors. Earlier this year Gigabyte Technology also started to equip its X99 “Champion” mainboards with custom sockets. Now, Asrock is following its …

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Just several months ago Asustek Computer started to use a special LGA2011-3 socket on its mainboards based on the Intel X99 core-logic in a bid to enhance overclocking potential of Intel Core i7 “Haswell-E” processors. Earlier this year Gigabyte Technology also started to equip its X99 “Champion” mainboards with custom sockets. Now, Asrock is following its competitors.

Asrock, one of the world’s largest makers of mainboards, will equip its motherboards with a special LGA2011-3 socket with additional pins that improve overclocking capabilities of Intel’s latest high-end desktop microprocessors, reports ComputerBase.de. The so-called O.C. socket utilizes pins only used during development as well as various testing procedure by Intel itself. The pins are not active on commercial products.

Exact capabilities of Asrock’s O.C. socket are unknown, but given the fact that the number of unused pins is limited and their designation is known to mainboard manufacturers, it should be pretty similar to the one used by Asustek. The latter’s LGA2011-3 O.C. sockets feature extra pins that allow to increase core voltage (Vcore) to 2.1V – 2.2V, up from 1.2V. The tangible increase of Vcore enables overclockers to boost frequencies of Intel Core i7-5800-/5900-series “Haswell-E” central processing units more significantly than on motherboards with regular sockets.

asus_oc_socket

Keeping in mind that Asrock once was a subsidiary of Asustek, it is possible that it licensed the O.C. socket from the world’s largest maker of mainboards.

Since at present three out of five makers of mainboards for enthusiasts use custom LGA2011-3 sockets, it is highly likely that the remaining two – EVGA and MicroStar International (MSI) – will follow them soon with their own O.C. sockets.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While it is cool to have a feature like O.C. socket on your motherboard, it should be noted that very few people will actually increase voltages of Intel Core i7 Extreme microprocessors to 2V or higher since chances to damage chips increase dramatically. As a result, extreme overclocking capabilities on “regular” mainboards seem to be a marketing gimmick rather than a useful feature.

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Corsair’s Dominator Platinum Orange guaranteed to run at 3.4GHz at ambient room temperature https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/corsairs-dominator-platinum-orange-guaranteed-to-run-at-3400mhz-at-ambient-room-temperature/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/corsairs-dominator-platinum-orange-guaranteed-to-run-at-3400mhz-at-ambient-room-temperature/#comments Fri, 20 Feb 2015 23:59:32 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=236833 Corsair, a major maker of enthusiast-class memory modules, has introduced its new limited edition 16GB DDR4 memory kit designed for high-end desktop (HEDT) systems featuring Intel Core i7 “Haswell-E” processors and Gigabyte X99-SOC Champion mainboards. The memory will run at maximum DDR4 clock-rate possible today, 3.40GHz, and will provide further overclocking capabilities. Corsair Dominator Platinum …

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Corsair, a major maker of enthusiast-class memory modules, has introduced its new limited edition 16GB DDR4 memory kit designed for high-end desktop (HEDT) systems featuring Intel Core i7 “Haswell-E” processors and Gigabyte X99-SOC Champion mainboards. The memory will run at maximum DDR4 clock-rate possible today, 3.40GHz, and will provide further overclocking capabilities.

Corsair Dominator Platinum DDR4 memory modules are the industry’s most sophisticated DRAM devices, which features loads of exclusive technologies aimed to improve their overclocking potential. The Dominator Platinum memory sticks are built on specially-designed multi-layer printed circuit boards that not only feature a special layer that works as a heat spreader and transfers heat to the main heat sink, but also feature integrated sensors to monitor temperature and voltages of memory chips. The modules sport large DHX radiators that can dissipate a lot of heat and improve overclocking. Besides, the Dominator Platinum family also features configurable and upgradeable top bars and light pipes to make the modules look good inside modded systems.

corsair_dominator_orange_3

The new Dominator Platinum DDR4 modules custom designed for the Gigabyte X99-SOC Champion mainboard feature orange top bars that match the motherboards’s orange colour theme. It is unknown whether the modules also feature certain SPD-based optimizations for the specific mainboard from Gigabyte.

corsair_dominator_orange_exp

The Corsair Dominator Platinum Series Limited Edition Orange 16GB (4*4GB) DDR4 memory kit (CMD16GX4M4B3400C16) is rated to run at 3400MHz (3.40GHz) with CL16 18-18-40 latency settings and 1.35V voltage. The modules fully support XMP 2.0 profiles and can clock themselves at optimal frequency when installed. Corsair guarantees that the modules will hit their clock-rate of 3400MHz at ambient room temperature without additional cooling methods. Obviously, all the improvements that are made to the modules’ PCBs and hand-picked memory chips should help enthusiasts to further overclock the devices beyond 3.40GHz.

corsair_dominator_orange_2

The Dominator Platinum series memory modules from Corsair is clearly very impressive in general. But performance and incredible technology come at a price. The Corsair Dominator Platinum Series Limited Edition Orange 16GB kit costs whopping $999.99.

The Gigabyte X99 SOC Champion motherboard features a special LGA2011-3 socket, akin to Asustek Computer’s patent-pending OC Socket, which activates pins that Intel uses only internally and which are not enabled on commercial products. The additional pins let overclockers to better tweak of voltages in BIOS, which should help those, who plan to use extreme cooling methods (liquid nitrogen or liquid helium) and set various benchmark records. Unlike other Intel X99 mainboard, the X99 SOC Champion features only four DDR4 DIMM memory slots in a bid to further improve overclocking potential. The slots are SMT mounted for improved signal quality and located closer to the CPU socket. The DIMM’s shorter trace path enables the DDR4 memory to communicate faster with the CPU, enabling the overclocker to reach record DDR4 memory frequencies.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: At the price of 16GB of premium DDR4 memory one could get a rather fine gaming PC with a decent graphics card and 16GB of mainstream DDR3… But top-notch performance requires significant investments and people who use LGA2011-3 platforms clearly know it.

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Asrock to add USB 3.1 to mainboards using add-in-cards https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-to-add-usb-3-1-to-mainboards-using-add-in-cards/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-to-add-usb-3-1-to-mainboards-using-add-in-cards/#comments Wed, 18 Feb 2015 02:45:46 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=236220 Asrock has announced two mainboards with USB 3.1 interconnection technologies. The motherboards will support Intel Corp.’s processors and will add USB 3.1 connectors using add-in-cards. It is unclear whether the boards will be sold separately to add USB 3.1 support to older systems. The family of Asrock’s mainboards with USB 3.1 includes two models: the …

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Asrock has announced two mainboards with USB 3.1 interconnection technologies. The motherboards will support Intel Corp.’s processors and will add USB 3.1 connectors using add-in-cards. It is unclear whether the boards will be sold separately to add USB 3.1 support to older systems.

The family of Asrock’s mainboards with USB 3.1 includes two models: the Z97 Extreme6/3.1 and the X99 Extreme 6/3.1, which support Intel processors in LGA1150 and LGA2011-3 form-factors, respectively. Both motherboards feature sophisticated voltage regulation modules to provide advanced overclocking capabilities, they also support for multi-GPU configurations as well as offer rich input/output capabilities.

asrock_usb31_image004

The add-in USB 3.1 card for the Asrock Z97 Extreme6/3.1 supports 10Gb/s transfer rates and requires a PCI Express 2.0 x4 slot and a power connector to operate. The card features one type-A (regular) and one type-C (reversible) connectors to ensure compatibility with all USB 3.1 implementations.

The USB 3.1 card for the Asrock X99 Extreme6/3.1 has the same features and requirements, but has two type-A connectors. The motherboard itself supports one USB 3.1 type-C connector.

asrock_usb31_image005

It is believed that both add-in-cards use an Asmedia USB 3.1 controller.

It is unknown when the new mainboards hit the market, but expect them to arrive shortly. Since currently implementation of the USB 3.1 requires additional chips, expect platforms with the new interconnection to cost noticeably more than regular motherboards without the SuperSpeed+ USB 3.1.

Check out KitGuru’s hands-on preview of the USB 3.1 in MSI’s implementation HERE.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The implementation of USB 3.1 using add-on cards does not seem to be very optimal, but at present it is the easiest and the most affordable way of adding the USB 3.1. Therefore, expect mainboard makers and some PC suppliers to adopt it.

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MSI offers cashback with purchase of mainboards and graphics cards https://www.kitguru.net/components/graphic-cards/anton-shilov/msi-offers-cashback-with-purchase-of-selected-mainboards-and-graphics-cards/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/graphic-cards/anton-shilov/msi-offers-cashback-with-purchase-of-selected-mainboards-and-graphics-cards/#respond Tue, 17 Feb 2015 03:25:48 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=235951 In a bid to strengthen its positions on the market of mainboards and graphics cards, MicroStar International initiated a new cashback promo campaign. Those, who purchase a combination of MSI mainboards with graphics cards will be eligible to get part of their money back from the manufacturer. From now on and until the 13th of …

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In a bid to strengthen its positions on the market of mainboards and graphics cards, MicroStar International initiated a new cashback promo campaign. Those, who purchase a combination of MSI mainboards with graphics cards will be eligible to get part of their money back from the manufacturer.

From now on and until the 13th of March, 2015, MSI proposes cashback to end-users who buy a selected MSI mainboard combined with a MSI graphics card at official MSI resellers. Some of the eligible products are MSI’s mainboards based on the Intel X99 core-logic, the MSI Z97 Gaming family, the Z97S SLI Krait Edition and selected H97 models. Combined with a purchase of one of MSI’s GeForce GTX 960 or GTX 970 graphics cards, or MSI’s high performance Radeon R9 290 or R9 270X cards, end users can receive cashback adding up to more than €40.

msi_promotion_cashback

The promotion is effective in 20 countries in Europe, including France, Belgium, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, UK, Germany, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, Austria, Russia, Ukraine, Turkey.

Numerous resellers in the U.K. are promoting MSI’s offer, including Box, CCL, Dabs, eBuyer, Novatech, OCUK, Scan & YOYOTech.

More details about the program are available at a special web-site.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: It makes a great sense for MSI to sell bundles consisting of mainboards and graphics cards. Many people upgrade mainboards, CPUs and graphics cards at once, therefore, selling a bundle maximizes MSI’s revenue per customer, an important metric these days.

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Asustek to release mainboards with USB 3.1 later this month https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asustek-to-release-mainboards-with-usb-3-1-later-this-month/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asustek-to-release-mainboards-with-usb-3-1-later-this-month/#comments Fri, 13 Feb 2015 23:56:05 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=235659 Although the USB 3.1 standard with a new reversible plug, higher performance and other improvements have been around for about a year now, no commercial PCs so far have adopted it. However, things are going to change soon, when Asustek Computer launches its motherboards with the new interconnection technology. The world’s largest maker of motherboards …

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Although the USB 3.1 standard with a new reversible plug, higher performance and other improvements have been around for about a year now, no commercial PCs so far have adopted it. However, things are going to change soon, when Asustek Computer launches its motherboards with the new interconnection technology.

The world’s largest maker of motherboards plans to release mainboards with USB 3.1 support as early as in the coming weeks, late in February. DigiTimes reports that Asus plans to use Asmedia’s ASM1142 host controller for its USB 3.1 implementation. The chip takes two PCIe 2.0 lanes from the core logic and converts them into USB 3.1 ports, which means that the solution will hardly achieve full 10Gb/s bandwidth, but will offer something like 8Gb/s.

At present it is unclear how many mainboards featuring USB 3.1 Asus plans to release, but it is logical to expect the company’s flagship models based on the Intel Z97 and the Intel X99 core-logic sets to get the new interconnection. It is also likely that the USB 3.1 will be implemented using both type-A (regular) and type-C (reversible) connectors.

asus_mainboard

MicroStar International also plans to launch two motherboards with USB 3.1 in the coming months. Check out KitGuru’s hands-on preview of the USB 3.1 in MSI’s implementation HERE. By contrast, Gigabyte Technology will only offer platforms with USB 3.1 in the second half of the year.

It is interesting to note that at present there are no USB 3.1 host controllers certified by the USB Implementers Forum.

Asustek did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While it will be good to finally have USB 3.1-supporting mainboards on the market, it is necessary to note that their owners will not benefit from the technology just yet. There are no peripherals that support USB 3.1’s 10Gb/s transfer rate or feature the type-C connector today. On the other hand, someone should start making USB 3.1-supporting hardware first…

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Supermicro unveils X99 mainboard with optional USB 3.1 10Gb/s ports https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/supermicro-unveils-intel-x99-mainboard-with-optional-usb-3-1-10gbs-ports/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/supermicro-unveils-intel-x99-mainboard-with-optional-usb-3-1-10gbs-ports/#comments Thu, 05 Feb 2015 04:53:50 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=234122 Supermicro, a leading manufacturer of high-end mainboards for workstations and servers, has revealed its first motherboard based on Intel Corp.’s X99 core-logic. The new platform not only supports Intel’s latest Core i7 Extreme and Xeon processors and overclocking capabilities, but can be equipped with USB 3.1 ports with 10Gb/s bandwidth. The Supermicro C7X99-OCE-F mainboard (in …

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Supermicro, a leading manufacturer of high-end mainboards for workstations and servers, has revealed its first motherboard based on Intel Corp.’s X99 core-logic. The new platform not only supports Intel’s latest Core i7 Extreme and Xeon processors and overclocking capabilities, but can be equipped with USB 3.1 ports with 10Gb/s bandwidth.

The Supermicro C7X99-OCE-F mainboard (in ATX form-factor) supports all modern LGA2011 v3 (socket R) microprocessors, including Core i7, Xeon E5-2600 v3 and E5-1600 v3 along with automatic overclocking. The motherboard features eight 288-pin DDR4 DIMM slots for up to 64GB of DDR4 memory at up to 3.30GHz frequency, four PCI Express x16 slots (run at 16/16/0/8 or 16/8/8/8), ten Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports, Intel i210-AT dual port Gigabit Ethernet, Realtek ALC1150 8-channel audio, TPM module, eight USB 3.0 ports, Aspeed AST2400 BMC (for IPMI only) graphics adapter and so on.

One of the key selling points of the Supermicro C7X99-OCE-F (in addition to very high build quality and reliability) is upgradeability of four USB 3.0 ports to USB 3.1 ports with 10Gb/s bandwidth using special host controllers. At present this is a BOM option for OEMs, but in a couple of months’ time Supermicro may release a new version of the mainboard with USB 3.1 type-C connectors for the channel market.

supermicro_x99_intel_lga2011_mainboard

Unlike the majority of Intel X99 motherboards from other manufacturers, the Supermicro C7X99-OCE-F does not feature extreme overclocking capabilities since it is aimed at desktop, server and workstation markets. Still, it can overclock microprocessors in both automatic and manual modes.

The new mainboard will hit the market shortly. Pricing is unknown, but traditionally SuperMicro motherboard are considerably more expensive than competing solutions due to positioning for servers and workstations.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Systems powered by the C7X99-OCE-F will be among the first PCs on the market with USB 3.1 10Gb/s ports. While you will not be able to buy a version of the C7X99-OCE-F with USB 3.1 type-C connectors just now (still, some of such platforms will probably slip to the channel market), it is very pleasant to see that the new version of USB is making progress in terms of the adoption. If you are looking for a high-quality platform for a workstation or a gaming PC and have no plans for heavy overclock, then the Supermicro C7X99-OCE-F should be considered.

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G.Skill introduces 3.40GHz DDR4 memory modules https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/g-skill-introduces-3-40ghz-ddr4-memory-modules/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/g-skill-introduces-3-40ghz-ddr4-memory-modules/#respond Sat, 17 Jan 2015 23:59:35 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=231147 G.Skill, a leading maker of dynamic random access memory (DRAM) modules for enthusiasts, has unveiled its first 3.40GHz DDR4 memory chips. While the company is not the first to announce 3.40GHz DDR4 solutions, it will be the first to actually ship appropriate DDR4 memory modules in volume. G.Skill’s Ripjaws 4 new DDR4 memory modules are …

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G.Skill, a leading maker of dynamic random access memory (DRAM) modules for enthusiasts, has unveiled its first 3.40GHz DDR4 memory chips. While the company is not the first to announce 3.40GHz DDR4 solutions, it will be the first to actually ship appropriate DDR4 memory modules in volume.

G.Skill’s Ripjaws 4 new DDR4 memory modules are rated to run at 3400MHz with CL16 16-16-36 latency settings and 1.35V voltage. The memory sticks will be available in quad-channel 16GB (4GB*4) memory kits for Intel Core i7 “Haswell-E” high-end desktop platforms (HEDT). The new high-performance memory kits come with awesome Turbulence III memory fans.

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Separately, G.Skill introduced a DDR4 3200MHz memory kit with CL15 timings, which should become popular among those, who believe that latency settings play a good role in memory sub-system's performance nowadays.

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According to G.Skill, the new Ripjaws 4 DDR4 3400MHz 16GB (4GBx4) memory kit is made from hand-picked DRAM devices during  a “highly-selective binning process.” The modules have been tested for compatibility on the Asus Rampage V Extreme and Gigabyte X99-SOC Champion motherboards, the manufacturer said.

G.Skill did not reveal the price of the new modules and memory kits, but given their exclusive specifications, do not expect them to be affordable.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While premium modules that can operate at 3.40GHz will certainly attract attention of enthusiasts of extreme performance, the vast majority of end-users will hardly even notice the announcement of G.Skill. Still, a several quarters from now, when Intel Corp. introduces its unlocked Skylake-K processors for “mainstream” overclockers, 3400MHz DDR4 memory modules will certainly get rather popular.

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Gigabyte unveils X99 SOC Champion with redesigned LGA2011 socket https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/gigabyte-unveils-x99-soc-champion-with-redesigned-lga2011-socket/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/gigabyte-unveils-x99-soc-champion-with-redesigned-lga2011-socket/#respond Mon, 12 Jan 2015 23:59:35 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=230171 Gigabyte Technology has introduced a new Intel X99-based mainboard that is specifically designed for overclockers. The motherboard is not the most feature-rich X99 platform available, but when it comes to overclocking potential, the X99 SOC Champion could offer numerous breakthroughs thanks to redesigned LGA2011 socket with additional pins as well as all-new memory sub-system. The …

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Gigabyte Technology has introduced a new Intel X99-based mainboard that is specifically designed for overclockers. The motherboard is not the most feature-rich X99 platform available, but when it comes to overclocking potential, the X99 SOC Champion could offer numerous breakthroughs thanks to redesigned LGA2011 socket with additional pins as well as all-new memory sub-system.

The Gigabyte X99 SOC Champion motherboard sports a special LGA2011-3 socket, akin to Asustek Computer’s patent-pending OC Socket, which activates pins that Intel uses only internally and which are not enabled on commercial products. The additional pins let overclockers to better tweak of voltages in BIOS, which should help those, who plan to use extreme cooling methods (liquid nitrogen or liquid helium) and set various benchmark records.

gigabyte_x99_soc_champion_3

Unlike other Intel X99 mainboard, the X99 SOC Champion features only four DDR4 DIMM memory slots in a bid to further improve overclocking potential. The slots are SMT mounted for improved signal quality and located closer to the CPU socket. The DIMM’s shorter trace path enables the DDR4 memory to communicate faster with the CPU, enabling the overclocker to reach never achieved before DDR4 memory frequencies.

Like other enthusiast-class mainboards from Gigabyte, the X99-SOC Champion uses high-quality components for CPU voltage regulator module, including International Rectifier PWM controllers and new PowIRstage controllers.

gigabyte_x99_soc_champion_4

The X99 SOC Champion mainboard from Gigabyte also sports four PCI Express x16 slots for 4-way multi-GPU graphics sub-systems, M.2 slot for SSDs with up to 20Gb/s of bandwidth as well as SATA Express port with 10Gb/s bandwidth.

Pricing of the mainboard was not announced, but since it lacks advanced RAID controllers or high-end audio solutions, it is unlikely that the platform will be very expensive.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: If you are in the market for a motherboard that offers great overclocking features, but is not too expensive, the Gigabyte X99 SOC Champion is clearly a platform to consider.

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Gigabyte reveals world’s first mATX Intel X99 mainboard for Core i7 ‘Haswell-E’ chips https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/gigabyte-reveals-worlds-first-matx-intel-x99-mainboard-for-core-i7-haswell-e-chips/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/gigabyte-reveals-worlds-first-matx-intel-x99-mainboard-for-core-i7-haswell-e-chips/#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2014 06:09:33 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=222324 Gigabyte Technology has unveiled the world’s first mATX mainboard based on the Intel X99 core-logic that is designed for Intel Core i7-5800/5900-series “Haswell-E” high-end desktop central processing units. The mainboard features premium capabilities and can enable compact form-factor systems with extreme levels of performance. The Gigabyte X99M-Gaming 5 motherboard is equipped with LGA2011-3 socket that …

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Gigabyte Technology has unveiled the world’s first mATX mainboard based on the Intel X99 core-logic that is designed for Intel Core i7-5800/5900-series “Haswell-E” high-end desktop central processing units. The mainboard features premium capabilities and can enable compact form-factor systems with extreme levels of performance.

The Gigabyte X99M-Gaming 5 motherboard is equipped with LGA2011-3 socket that supports Intel’s latest HEDT chips, four DDR4 DIMM slots, two PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots for graphics cards, one PCI Express x16 slot operating in PCIe 3.0 x8 mode that can be used for the third graphics card or for a high-end PCIe SSD, one PCI Express x1 slot for add-in-cards, one M.2 socket (PCIe 2.0 x2 mode, up to 10Gb/s bandwidth) for SSDs, one SATA Express connector, six Serial ATA-6Gb/s connectors, four USB 3.0 ports, 10 USB 2.0 ports, Gigabit Ethernet (Qualcomm Atheros Killer E2201 chip), 7.1-channel audio (Realtek ALC1150 codec with custom amplifiers) and so on.

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Like other advanced mainboards designed for Core i7 Extreme processors, the Gigabyte X99M-Gaming 5 was developed with overclocking in mind. The motherboard's CPU VRM is based on International Rectifier chips, including fourth-generation digital PWM controller and third-generation PowIRstage controllers. The mainboard utilizes  monolith chokes from Cooper Bussmann, aluminum core capacitors with low equivalent series resistors as well as other high-quality components to ensure maximum reliability even in overclocking conditions.

While the Gigabyte X99M-Gaming 5 will fit into compact cases, it will still allow to build a system with eight-core Core i7-5960X processor, up to three graphics cards, up to 32GB of DDR4 memory and a high-end SATAe or M.2 SSD.

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Pricing of the X99M-Gaming 5 is unknown, but do not expect it to be affordable. At present this is the only mATX mainboard based on Intel X99 chipset for LGA2011 v3 processors.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: If you are in the market for a compact mainboard for a high-end PC, the Gigabyte X99-Gaming 5 is a thing to look at. However, keep in mind that in the coming months rivals of Gigabyte, such as Asustek Computer, will likely offer an alternative compact solution for Intel’s “Haswell-E” chips, which will bring the price of such platforms down a bit.

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Intel and MSI to return up to £110/€140 to owners of latest mainboards and CPUs https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-and-msi-to-return-up-to-110e140-to-owners-of-latest-mainboards-and-processors/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-and-msi-to-return-up-to-110e140-to-owners-of-latest-mainboards-and-processors/#comments Mon, 17 Nov 2014 23:59:41 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=222156 MicroStar International and Intel Corp. on Monday announced a new cashback promotion that will help owners of certain Intel and MSI products to get some cash back. The promotion will work in multiple European countries, including the U.K. From the 16th of November until the 27th of December, 2014, MSI and Intel are offering a …

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MicroStar International and Intel Corp. on Monday announced a new cashback promotion that will help owners of certain Intel and MSI products to get some cash back. The promotion will work in multiple European countries, including the U.K.

From the 16th of November until the 27th of December, 2014, MSI and Intel are offering a cashback deal on MSI X99 and Z97 motherboards with Intel Core i7 and Core i5 processors. Those, who purchased mainboards and central processing units during the promotion dates, should proof their purchase to MSI and Intel on a special web-site and receive up to £110/€140 in cash. Claims will be accepted not earlier than 30 days from the date of purchase.

msi-z97_gaming_9_ack-product_pictures-boxshot-2

For the X99 platform, end users will be able to get cashback for the Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition, Intel Core i7-5930K and Intel Core i7-5820K processors in combination with any of the MSI X99 motherboards, including X99S Gaming 9 ACK, X99S Gaming 9 AC, X99S XPower AC, X99S Gaming 7, X99S MPower and X99S SLI Plus.

For the Z97 platform, the Intel Core i7-4790K and Intel Core i5-4690K are the processors to go for when combined with any of the MSI Z97 mainboards, including Z97 MPower, Z97 Gaming 9 ACK, Z97 Gaming 9 AC, Z97 Gaming 7, Z97 Gaming 5, Z97-GD65 Gaming, Z97-G45 Gaming, Z97 Gaming 3, Z97S SLI Plus, Z97S SLI Krait Edition.

The promotion works in France, Belgium, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, U.K., Germany, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, Austria.

The cashback promotion will help MSI and Intel to attract attention to their products and boost sales ahead of the holiday season. Lucky customers will be able to reduce their spending and get some unexpected money.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Cashback promotions are pretty rare and limited. Still, it is nice to see that at least some people will be able to get some cash back after the purchase.

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MSI X99S MPower: Intel ‘Haswell-E’ platform gets more affordable https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-unleashes-x99s-mpower-intel-x99-platform-for-haswell-e-gets-more-affordable/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-unleashes-x99s-mpower-intel-x99-platform-for-haswell-e-gets-more-affordable/#respond Fri, 31 Oct 2014 09:41:07 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=219528 MicroStar International this week rolled-out its fifth mainboard based on the Intel X99 core-logic set that is designed for Intel Corp.’s latest high-end desktop (HEDT) Core i7 “Haswel-E” central processing units. The new motherboard features premium components, overclocking capabilities and all the advantages the X99 has to offer. However, it lacks certain functions and technologies …

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MicroStar International this week rolled-out its fifth mainboard based on the Intel X99 core-logic set that is designed for Intel Corp.’s latest high-end desktop (HEDT) Core i7 “Haswel-E” central processing units. The new motherboard features premium components, overclocking capabilities and all the advantages the X99 has to offer. However, it lacks certain functions and technologies that are required by select enthusiasts, which makes it a tad more affordable than the rest platforms for the new “extreme” CPUs.

The MSI X99S MPower mainboard features LGA2011-3 socket for Intel Core i7-5800/5900-series “Haswell-E” microprocessors, eight 288-pin DIMM slots for DDR4 memory modules, four PCI Express x16 slots (which can work in x4, x8 or x16 modes) for up to four graphics cards, two PCI Express x1 slots for add-in boards, M.2 slot for solid-state drives that works in PCI Express 3.0 x4 mode (provides 32Gb/s, or 4GB/s of bandwidth), one SATA Express port, integrated 7.1 audio with MSI AudioBoost enhancements, Serial ATA-6Gb/s, USB 3.0, Gigabit Ethernet and so on. The motherboard comes in ATX form-factor, unlike some other members of the X99S lineup that come in E-ATX.

msi_x99s_mpower_1

Like other premium mainboards from MSI, the X99S MPower comes with what the company calls Military Class 4 components, which includes DrMOS II MOSFETs, monolithic super ferrite chokes (SFCs), highly-conductive polymerized capacitors (Hi-C Cap, made of tantalum) as well as aluminum core capacitors with low equivalent series resistors (which MSI calls Dark Caps). MSI’s motherboards designed for overclocking are marked with OC Certified sign, which means that they have passed the test running Prime95 for over 24 hours with a “highly overclocked” CPU without airflow for the mainboard itself.

The MSI X99S MPower motherboard features all the advanced overclocking capabilities that the Intel X99 platform and the rest of the MSI X99S family members have to offer, which includes fine adjustments of BCLK, voltage checkpoints, OC Genie manual overclocking feature and so on. Still, the mainboard lacks USB port on the PCB (which is only needed by extreme overclockers who do not install mainboards into PC cases), manual adjustment of CPU multiplier using OC Genie buttons, additional fan stand, heat-pipe-based cooling system for CPU VRM and the X99 PCH (which is barely needed at all) and some other minor things.

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In short, the MSI X99S MPower has everything needed to enjoy Intel’s latest six-core or eight-core Core i7-5800/5900-series “Haswell-E” microprocessors, including versatile overclocking functionality, but lacks certain functions only needed for professional overclockers or extreme enthusiasts.

While the MSI X99S MPower will not be exactly inexpensive, it will be more affordable than many other mainboards for LGA2011 v3 microprocessors available today. The novelty should hit the market shortly.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The MSI X99S MPower will eventually not be the only reasonably priced LGA2011 v3 mainboard on the market. As the Intel X99 platform matures, expect other manufacturers and even MSI itself to offer something even more affordable for those, who do not need advanced overclocking capabilities.

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Intel delays Broadwell-E processor for high-end desktops to 2016 https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-delays-broadwell-e-processor-for-high-end-desktops-to-2016/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-delays-broadwell-e-processor-for-high-end-desktops-to-2016/#comments Tue, 21 Oct 2014 12:09:54 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=217662 Intel Corp. has decided to delay mass production of its next-generation code-named “Broadwell-E” microprocessor to the first quarter of 2016. Exact reasons for the decision are unclear, but probably the issues with the company's 14nm process technology as well as the lack of competition on the market of ultra-high-end desktop platforms are among them. The code-named …

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Intel Corp. has decided to delay mass production of its next-generation code-named “Broadwell-E” microprocessor to the first quarter of 2016. Exact reasons for the decision are unclear, but probably the issues with the company's 14nm process technology as well as the lack of competition on the market of ultra-high-end desktop platforms are among them.

The code-named “Broadwell-E” central processing units for high-end desktops will resemble the existing Core i7-5800-/5900-series “Haswell-E” chips and will even be drop-in compatible with LGA2011 v3 mainboards based on the Intel X99 core-logic. The new HEDT CPUs will feature six or eight cores, up to 20MB of last-level-cache, quad-channel DDR4 memory, PCI Express 3.0 lanes, 140W thermal design power and so on.

Unfortunately, the new enthusiast-class chips from Intel will not see the light of the day till the first quarter of 2016, reports Chinese VR-Zone web-site. The world's largest chipmaker plans to start supplying pre-ES samples of the “Broadwell-E” to partners in the second quarter of 2015, engineering samples (ES) are expected to become available on the 36th week of 2015, whereas the final qualification samples (QS) are expected to ship to Intel’s partners on the 47th week of next year.

intel_broadwell_e

Given the fact that the “Broadwell-E” chips share silicon with the Xeon “Broadwell-EP” microprocessors, it is highly likely that it will also not hit the market in 2015, but will only become available in 2016.

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: On the one hand, Intel does not need “Broadwell-E” any time soon because it has no rivals on the market of high-end desktops. AMD’s FX chips will not become competitive for that segment at least until 2016 when the code-named “Zen” (or “Xen”?) micro-architecture rolls-out. On the other hand, given all the issues with 14nm fabrication process, it is logical for Intel to postpone production of large chips until all the issues with the manufacturing technology are solved. This helps to drive down costs and maximize profits.

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Kingmax reveals 3.20GHz DDR4 modules, projects rapid adoption in 2015 https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/kingmax-reveals-3-20ghz-ddr4-modules-projects-rapid-ddr4-adoption-in-2015/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/kingmax-reveals-3-20ghz-ddr4-modules-projects-rapid-ddr4-adoption-in-2015/#respond Thu, 02 Oct 2014 22:18:11 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=214916 Kingmax, a well-known supplier of premium memory modules, on Thursday introduced its first DDR4 memory solutions with up to 3.20GHz effective clock-rate and also said that the adoption of DDR4 will rise in 2015. The family of Kingmax's DDR4 memory modules includes (or will eventually include) 288-pin DDR4 unbuffered DIMMs, registered DIMMs, ECC unbuffered DIMMs, …

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Kingmax, a well-known supplier of premium memory modules, on Thursday introduced its first DDR4 memory solutions with up to 3.20GHz effective clock-rate and also said that the adoption of DDR4 will rise in 2015.

The family of Kingmax's DDR4 memory modules includes (or will eventually include) 288-pin DDR4 unbuffered DIMMs, registered DIMMs, ECC unbuffered DIMMs, VLP registered DIMMs as well as 260-pin DDR4 unbuffered SO-DIMMs. The lineup of Kingmax’s DDR4 memory modules include 4GB, 8GB and even 16GB versions. The DDR4 memory solutions from Kingmax are rated to work at 1866MHz, 2133MHz, 2400MHz as well as 3200MHz.

kingmax_ddr4_dram_memory_modules_specs

At present DDR4 memory modules are used only by systems running Core i7-5800/5900-series “Haswell-E” high-end desktop microprocessors as well as Intel Xeon E5 v3 “Haswell-EP” server processors. Neither of the chips are expected to have truly high market share given their price, positioning and some other factors. Nonetheless, Kingmax expects the popularity of DDR4 to increase “spectacularly” in 2015.

“With the launch of Intel's Haswell-E processor platform, which supports DDR4, it is believed that computer products with DDR4 will gradually appear in the market, triggering a rapid increase in a spectacular rise in usage of DDR4 in 2015,” a statement by Kingmax published by TechPowerUp reads.

kingmax_ddr4_dram_memory_modules

In order to make DDR4 popular, Intel needs to release mainstream central processing units that support it. The first mainstream product line to support DDR4 will be the code-named Skylake processors for desktops and notebooks due in 2015. Officially, Intel claims that the Skylake products are only due in late 2015, which means that the amount of DDR4-supporting CPUs will be pretty low in 2015. However, there are unofficial reports claiming that the Skylake chips will arrive already in mid-2015. If the unofficial claims are accurate, then Kingmax has reasons to believe that adoption of the DDR4 technology will get significant next year. Unfortunately, it is expected that at least some Intel 100-series (Skylake-based) platforms will support DDR3 memory as well, which lowers chances of DDR4.

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: If Kingmax is right and the Skylake-based platforms will be adopted widely in 2015 (in order to make this happen, Intel will need to launch them at Computex in mid-2015), it means that the Broadwell processors will live a very short life.

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Eight-core Core i7-5960X overclocked to 6GHz+ with all cores active https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/eight-core-core-i7-5960x-overclocked-to-6ghz-with-all-cores-active/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/eight-core-core-i7-5960x-overclocked-to-6ghz-with-all-cores-active/#comments Tue, 23 Sep 2014 22:58:00 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=213005 Although Intel Corp. decided to set pretty moderate default clock-rate for its eight-core desktop chips aimed at performance enthusiasts, the new Core i7-5960X “Haswell-E” central processing units appear to be pretty good overclockers. Recently a German enthusiast managed to boost clock-rate of the new processor by two times from default using LN2 cooling. Der8auer, an …

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Although Intel Corp. decided to set pretty moderate default clock-rate for its eight-core desktop chips aimed at performance enthusiasts, the new Core i7-5960X “Haswell-E” central processing units appear to be pretty good overclockers. Recently a German enthusiast managed to boost clock-rate of the new processor by two times from default using LN2 cooling.

Der8auer, an overclocker from Germany, on Monday overclocked his Core i7-5960X microprocessor from 3.0GHz to 6065MHz, based on his submissions on Hwbot.org, a web-site that overclockers use to share their overclocking results. It is especially noteworthy that all eight cores and the Hyper-Threading technology remained active, as a result, the chip could demonstrate record performance in various applications.

To overclock the eight-core CPU, Der8auer used Gigabyte X99-SOC Force LN2 mainboard based on Intel X99 core-logic set as well as liquid nitrogen (LN2) cooling. The core voltage of the chip was increased to 1.657V, which is not too high.

intel_haswell_e_6ghz_cpuz

The record overclocking allowed Deb8auer to set three world’s records for eight-core microprocessors:

  • HWBot Prime – 9698.75 points at 6065MHz;
  • wPrime 1024M – 58.380 seconds at 6065MHz;
  • Cinebench R15 – 2342 points at 5875MHz.

While 6GHz is extremely high clock-rate, it is not the record frequency ever set by the Core i7-5960X chip. Recently Nick Shih, a well-known professional overclocker that works with Asrock, managed to overclock his Intel Core i7-5960X processor to 6594MHz with LN2 cooling on Asrock X99 OC Formula mainboard. He had to increase core voltage to 1.818V and disable seven cores out of eight.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The new enthusiast-class processors from Intel overclock very well with LN2 cooling. Unfortunately, far not all of such chips can operate at 4.5GHz+ with proper air or liquid cooling.

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Asustek plans to sue its rivals for patent infringement https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asustek-plans-to-sue-its-rivals-for-patent-infringement/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asustek-plans-to-sue-its-rivals-for-patent-infringement/#comments Wed, 17 Sep 2014 22:54:29 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=212154 Unlike chip designers, makers of mainboards tend not to sue each other for patent infringements. They quietly follow each other with certain innovations. According to a new media report, Asustek Computer plans to break this tradition and sue some of its competitors for using its intellectual property. Several weeks ago Asus, along with other manufacturers …

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Unlike chip designers, makers of mainboards tend not to sue each other for patent infringements. They quietly follow each other with certain innovations. According to a new media report, Asustek Computer plans to break this tradition and sue some of its competitors for using its intellectual property.

Several weeks ago Asus, along with other manufacturers of motherboards, released new platforms based the Intel X99 core-logic set designed for high-end desktop (HEDT) systems. Unlike its competitors, Asustek decided to use a special design of the LGA2011-3 socket in order to maximize overclocking potential of Intel Corp.’s new Core i7-5800-/5900-series microprocessors by boosting their Vcore significantly. The Asus O.C. socket features pins that Intel only uses for testing of microprocessors and which are not supposed to be used on commercial products.

While at present other makers of mainboards utilize “normal” sockets LGA2011-3, they plan to follow Asus with special sockets with enhanced overclockability, claims DigiTimes. Asustek reportedly wants to sue its rivals for infringements of its patents.

X99-DLX

Asustek suspects that supply chain members have leaked details of the OC socket to competitors, which is why they are projected to be ready with competing solutions shortly from now.

Asustek is one of the world’s largest suppliers of mainboards. The company competes against all other players in various market segments. The OC sockets give Asus a unique advantage in the segment of ultra-high-end solutions for enthusiasts. Such platforms are usually sold with significant profit margin, therefore, it is crucial to maintain leadership among competitors.

Asustek did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Since LGA2011-3 socket was originally designed by Intel, it is unlikely that Asus holds any patents covering the OC socket at the moment. Still, since Asus has found a way to use the unused pins, it could probably patent certain circuitry that enables the O.C. socket on commercial motherboards. That innovation is probably patent-pending now. All-in-all, it will be interesting to see of what Asustek plans to accuse its rivals. In fact, it is more logical to sue those, who leaked the data to Asus’ competitors for a breach of possible non-disclosure agreements.

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Asus clarifies situation with OC sockets: CPUs have warranty https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/asus-clarifies-situation-with-oc-sockets-cpus-are-covered-with-warranty/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/asus-clarifies-situation-with-oc-sockets-cpus-are-covered-with-warranty/#respond Wed, 03 Sep 2014 14:54:37 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=210191 Asustek Computer on Wednesday clarified the situation with its custom LGA2011-3 O.C. sockets as well as warranty that covers Intel Corp.’s processors. The mainboard maker denied that Intel’s warranty does not cover chips used with O.C. sockets and stated that the sockets are absolutely safe to use. A new statement by Intel confirms Asus’ claims. …

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Asustek Computer on Wednesday clarified the situation with its custom LGA2011-3 O.C. sockets as well as warranty that covers Intel Corp.’s processors. The mainboard maker denied that Intel’s warranty does not cover chips used with O.C. sockets and stated that the sockets are absolutely safe to use. A new statement by Intel confirms Asus’ claims.

As reported, Asustek’s LGA2011-3 O.C. sockets feature pins which Intel uses only for testing of chips, but does not utilise on commercial products. The additional pins allow to increase core voltage (Vcore) of Intel Core i7-5800-/5900-series “Haswell-E” microprocessors to 2.1V – 2.2V, up from 1.2V. The increase of CPU Vcore enables overclockers to reach higher clock-rates  than on motherboards made by other makers.

According to Gareth Ogden, a marketing manager at Asus U.K., Intel does not validate any third-party mainboards, but only its reference sockets and designs. The chipmaker does not authenticate third party’s custom VRM solutions, BIOS tuning, or PCB layout and memory topology designs. This does not affect its warranties.

X99-Deluxe-3

“Intel tested and validated its new Core i7 Extreme desktop processors with the Intel socket 2011-v3 only to bring the best performance and experience possible to the end user,” a statement by Intel reads. “Support for other socket designs is beyond the scope of Intel's validation effort on the HSW-E platform.”

Asustek Computer validates its own enhancements, such as the OC socket, in a bid to assure full compatibility. The company can guarantee that its mainboards based on the Intel X99 core-logic set are safe for microprocessors and other components.

“So the short-short version is that Intel never stated OC Socket voids the warranty,” said Mr. Ogden. “Intel’s warranty remains the same as it always has been – same for us, same for everyone else. Same as it has been for many previous generations of boards too – all of which were custom designs too of course.”

To sum up, Intel’s warranty continues to cover microprocessors used on all mainboards under normal conditions. At the same time, the warranty does not cover central processing units damaged as a result of overclocking.

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KitGuru Says: All-in-all, Asustek’s OC sockets are perfectly safe to use, microprocessors from Intel are covered with warranties no matter in which sockets are installed. Looks like there was a huge misunderstanding with an earlier report on the matter.

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Asus: CPUs used with LGA2011-3 O.C. sockets should be covered with warranty https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/asus-cpus-used-with-lga2011-3-o-c-sockets-should-be-covered-with-warranty/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/asus-cpus-used-with-lga2011-3-o-c-sockets-should-be-covered-with-warranty/#comments Tue, 02 Sep 2014 22:46:44 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=210042 UPDATE: Asus clarifies situation with OC sockets: CPUs are covered with warranty As reported, Asustek Computer’s mainboards based on Intel Corp.’s X99 platform are equipped with special sockets that feature additional contacts not used on commercial mainboards by other makers. The contacts allow to better overclock Intel’s Core i7-5800-/5900-series “Haswell-E” microprocessors, but Intel claims that usage …

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UPDATE: Asus clarifies situation with OC sockets: CPUs are covered with warranty

As reported, Asustek Computer’s mainboards based on Intel Corp.’s X99 platform are equipped with special sockets that feature additional contacts not used on commercial mainboards by other makers. The contacts allow to better overclock Intel’s Core i7-5800-/5900-series “Haswell-E” microprocessors, but Intel claims that usage of such sockets voids warranty. Asus argues that the warranty should not be voided.

Asustek’s LGA2011-3 O.C. sockets feature pins which Intel uses only for testing of chips, but does not allow their usage on commercial products. The additional pins allow to increase core voltage (Vcore) to 2.1V – 2.2V, up from 1.2V. The significant increase of Vcore enables overclockers to boost clock-rates of Intel Core i7-5800-/5900-series “Haswell-E” microprocessors more significantly than on other motherboards. However, the chip giant has warned that usage of the O.C. sockets and additional pins voids warranty, reports ComputerBase.de.

asus_oc_socket

Intel claims that usage of the O.C. sockets have not been validated for commercial systems. Asustek argues that the design of the socket is akin to design of non-reference voltage regulating module (VRM) or covering LGA pins with gold. Therefore, the warranty should not be voided.

The result of the dispute between the chipmaker and the manufacturer of motherboards remains to be seen. Typically, Intel allows its close partners, such as Asus, to re-engineer its platforms quite significantly. Nonetheless, all the situations are individual.

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KitGuru Says: Damaging microprocessors as a result of overclocking always voids warranty. Therefore, the reasons why Intel is so unhappy because of the OC socket are not completely clear.

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G.Skill’s Ripjaws DDR4 memory modules overclocked to 4GHz https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/g-skills-ripjaws-ddr4-memory-modules-overclocked-to-4ghz/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/g-skills-ripjaws-ddr4-memory-modules-overclocked-to-4ghz/#respond Fri, 29 Aug 2014 22:45:16 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=209643 G.Skill said on Friday that its specialists have managed to overclock the company's Ripjaws 4-series DDR4 memory modules to rather whopping 4GHz effective data-rate. While 4004MHz this is not particularly the world’s record memory frequency, the achievement shows that the first-generation DDR4 memory modules are rather good for overclocking. To push a 4GB Ripjaws 4 DDR4 …

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G.Skill said on Friday that its specialists have managed to overclock the company's Ripjaws 4-series DDR4 memory modules to rather whopping 4GHz effective data-rate. While 4004MHz this is not particularly the world’s record memory frequency, the achievement shows that the first-generation DDR4 memory modules are rather good for overclocking.

To push a 4GB Ripjaws 4 DDR4 memory module to 4.0GHz, overclockers from G.Skill used a testbed powered by Asus ROG X99 Rampage V Extreme mainboard as well as Intel Core i7-5930K processor cooled by liquid-nitrogen. The frequency of the microprocessor was lowered to 2184.24MHz in order to maximize overclocking potential of its memory controller. The final frequency of the module was 4004.4MHz.

gskill_ddr4_overclock

While the overclocking memory in single-channel mode does not have any practical meaning since today’s memory sub-systems are dual- or quad-channel, the 4GHz clock-rate demonstrate the potential of the DDR4 in general.

If the very first commercial DDR4 modules can hit 4GHz, imagine what can be expected a couple of years down the road when DRAM makers learn how to make high-speed DDR4 chips, module and mainboard manufacturers develop sophisticated PCB designs for DDR4 and memory controller developers (e.g., Intel, AMD, etc.) realize how to develop advanced controllers.

It is interesting to note that 4266MHz is officially the highest effective data-rate for the DDR4 standard in general. Given the current overclocking result, it is likely that JEDEC, an organization that develops DRAM-related standards, will have to increase the DDR4 goals and extend the the DDR4 roadmap to include higher frequencies.

gskill_ripjaws4_official

The world’s highest computer memory frequency that has ever been reached is 4.62GHz (4620MHz), according to CPU-Z. DDR4 yet has to hit such clock-rates, but it will clearly do it in the foreseeable future.

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KitGuru Says: It is tremendously interesting to learn what the world’s top overclockers will manage to achieve with DDR4 memory in the coming weeks and months…

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Intel Core i7-5960X ‘Haswell-E’ overclocked to 6253MHz https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-core-i7-5960x-haswell-e-overclocked-to-6253mhz/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-core-i7-5960x-haswell-e-overclocked-to-6253mhz/#comments Thu, 28 Aug 2014 14:58:59 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=209362 A well-known enthusiast has managed to overclock an engineering sample of the yet-unreleased Intel Core i7-5960X microprocessor code-named “Haswell-E” to rather whopping 6.25GHz. While it is hard to make conclusions regarding overclockability of Intel’s upcoming top-of-the-range chip, the early result still seems to be interesting. TaPaKaH, a well-known overclocker from Russia, has managed to push …

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A well-known enthusiast has managed to overclock an engineering sample of the yet-unreleased Intel Core i7-5960X microprocessor code-named “Haswell-E” to rather whopping 6.25GHz. While it is hard to make conclusions regarding overclockability of Intel’s upcoming top-of-the-range chip, the early result still seems to be interesting.

TaPaKaH, a well-known overclocker from Russia, has managed to push an engineering sample of the Intel Core i7-5960X processor to 6253.16MHz (up from 3.0/3.50GHz default frequencies), according to a listing at CPU-Z. The result was achieved on a system featuring MicroStar International’s MSI X99 SLI Plus (MS-7885) mainboard and quad-channel DDR4 memory kit. For some reason, the overclocker used a 32-bit Windows XP SP3 operating system, hence, naturally, there were issues with correct recognition of DDR4 memory modules.

In order to boost clock-speed of the Core i7-5960X “Haswell-E” microprocessor to whopping 6.25GHz, the overclocker had to disable six out of eight cores (as well as the Hyper-Threading technology), increase the core voltage (Vcore) to 1.753V and also (presumably) use liquid nitrogen (LN2) cooling.

intel_haswell_e_overclock_cpu_z

Even though 6.25GHz clock-rate is a nice result that shows good overclocking potential of the “Haswell-E” in general, it has little practical meaning since only two cores were enabled.

Meanwhile, a member of Coolaler forums has managed to overclock the Core i7-5960X “Haswell-E” microprocessor with all eight cores with HT activated to 4.0GHz with 1.046V Vcore. The overclock was not only validated by CPU-Z, but the chip managed to complete the SuperPi 1M benchmark in 14.555s. Most probably the “Haswell-E” could do even better than that with higher voltage and better cooling

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: It is only one day left before reviews of the Intel Core i7-5960X “Haswell-E” microprocessors are set to hit the web. What we do know already is that the new chips should not only offer rather high performance out-of-the-box (which is expected), but also great overclockability.

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