LGA1151 | KitGuru https://www.kitguru.net KitGuru.net - Tech News | Hardware News | Hardware Reviews | IOS | Mobile | Gaming | Graphics Cards Thu, 03 Aug 2017 13:37:46 +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 LGA1151 | KitGuru https://www.kitguru.net 32 32 Intel’s upcoming Coffee Lake CPUs won’t support Z270 motherboards according to ASRock https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/matthew-wilson/intels-upcoming-coffee-lake-cpus-wont-support-z270-motherboards-according-to-asrock/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/matthew-wilson/intels-upcoming-coffee-lake-cpus-wont-support-z270-motherboards-according-to-asrock/#comments Thu, 03 Aug 2017 13:37:46 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=342658 We have been hearing bits of information regarding Intel’s next micro-architecture update for a while now. We are expecting the first ‘Coffee Lake’ CPUs to hit the DIY desktop market in 2018 but it seems those hoping to upgrade and keep their current motherboard may be out of luck. According to ASRock, Intel’s upcoming Coffee …

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We have been hearing bits of information regarding Intel’s next micro-architecture update for a while now. We are expecting the first ‘Coffee Lake’ CPUs to hit the DIY desktop market in 2018 but it seems those hoping to upgrade and keep their current motherboard may be out of luck. According to ASRock, Intel’s upcoming Coffee Lake chips won’t support 200 series motherboards.

Intel introduced socket LGA1151 around two years ago with Skylake. This socket carried over from Z170 to Z270 and with Coffee Lake being another 14nm increment, it was assumed that the socket would carry over once again. If what ASRock is saying is correct, then that won’t be the case.

Over on Twitter, someone asked ASRock directly if the Z270 Supercarrier motherboard will get support for upcoming Coffee Lake CPUs, to which the company replied: “No, Coffee Lake CPU is not compatible with 200 series motherboards”. That tweet is now deleted but there is a screenshot of it above.

We already know a fair bit about Intel’s Coffee Lake plans. Back at Computex, Intel promised a 30 percent performance boost with its 8th generation processors. Aside from that, we have also heard rumours that these new chips will bring more cores to mainstream offerings, with new Core i5s and Core i7s jumping to six-core designs with a 95W TDP.

Anyone looking to make the jump though may want to budget for a new motherboard too. There is the possibility that whoever is in charge of ASRock’s Twitter account got the wrong information but switching to a new socket wouldn’t exactly be out of the ordinary given Intel’s track record.

KitGuru Says: Most people buy a CPU/Mobo/RAM combination and stick to it for years. However, if you are the type of person that likes to swap to a newer CPU more regularly, then I imagine also having to budget for a new motherboard can be frustrating.

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Biostar Racing Z170 GT7 Motherboard Review https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/ryan-martin/biostar-racing-z170-gt7-motherboard-review/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/ryan-martin/biostar-racing-z170-gt7-motherboard-review/#respond Tue, 27 Dec 2016 10:41:58 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=315349 Biostar isn't the first brand that comes to mind for a mid-range gaming motherboard as the big four, ASRock, ASUS, Gigabyte and MSI, dominate this segment. However, with the Racing Z170 GT7 motherboard Biostar is throwing its hat into the ring. Biostar's Racing Z170 GT7 isn't just another mid-range gaming motherboard with a predictable array …

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Biostar isn't the first brand that comes to mind for a mid-range gaming motherboard as the big four, ASRock, ASUS, Gigabyte and MSI, dominate this segment. However, with the Racing Z170 GT7 motherboard Biostar is throwing its hat into the ring.

biostar_racing_z170_gt7-18

Biostar's Racing Z170 GT7 isn't just another mid-range gaming motherboard with a predictable array of features and onboard hardware. Biostar has differentiated itself in a fairly unique way: an onboard RGB lighting strip, RGB lighting built into the heatsinks and support for LED strips – a full complement of RGB-enabling features. For a motherboard that retails for around $165/£150 this alone is enough to catch the attention of prospective Z170 buyers.

The Racing Z170 GT7 doesn't skimp on connectivity either with the usual interfaces consumers have come to expect from Z170 – M.2 NVMe, USB 3.1 Type C and SATA Express as well as USB 3.0, Gigabit LAN and SATA III 6 Gbps. PCIe lanes are arranged to support 2-Way SLI or 3-Way CrossFireX with dual-slot spacing. Two of the 16X lanes run at 4X and are provided through the chipset (South Bridge), not by the CPU, so 3-Way and 4-Way SLI is not an option, neither is 4-Way CrossFireX.

Biostar's Racing branding is evident in the products design with a black and white chequered racing flag printed onto the PCB and rear I/O cover as well as an R emblem over the chipset heatsink and similar branding on the audio codec's shielding. Despite Biostar's best efforts styling still appears visibly “low-cost”, lacking some of the design and styling finesse of motherboards from the more reputable vendors.

Biostar Racing Z170 GT7  
 CPU Socket  LGA 1151,  6+2 phase VRM
 Chipset  Z170 Express
 Memory  DDR4, 4 DIMMs, up to 64GB and 3200MHz+ with OC
 Onboard Graphics  Intel HD Graphics (supported CPUs)
 Discrete Graphics  Up to 2-Way SLI, 3-Way CrossFireX, Quad-SLI or Quad-CrossFireX
 Expansion Slots 2 x PCIe 3.0 16X (16X/0X, 8X/8X)
2 x PCIe 3.0 16X (4X/4X)
3 x PCIe 3.0 X1*
*Shared bandwidth with a PCIe 16X 4X electrical slot
 Storage 6 x SATA III 6Gbps
3 x SATA Express
1 x M.2 32Gbps (PCIe or SATA)
 USB 7  x USB 3.0 via Intel Z170 (2 Front, 5 Rear)
4 x USB 2.0 via Intel Z170 (4 Front)
1 x USB 3.1 Type-C  via ASMedia (1 Rear)
 Networking  1 x Intel I219V Gigabit Ethernet
 Audio  Realtek ALC898 8 Channel Audio
 Fan Headers  2 CPU, 3 SYS_FAN, all support 3/4 pin fans
 Rear I/O  1 x PS/2
1 x USB 3.1 Type-C Port
5 x USB 3.0 Port
2 x HDMI Connector
1 x DVI-D Connector
1 x VGA Port
6 x Audio Connector
 UEFI  UEFI dual-BIOS with switch

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ASUS Z170 Pro Gaming AURA Motherboard Review https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/ryan-martin/asus-z170-pro-gaming-aura-motherboard-review/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/ryan-martin/asus-z170-pro-gaming-aura-motherboard-review/#comments Mon, 05 Sep 2016 08:45:46 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=304341 Intel's next-gen CPU architecture, Kaby Lake, is expected at some point in the coming months but for now Skylake remains the prominent choice for PC builders.  Z170 continues to be the flagship chipset for Intel's mainstream CPUs until it is replaced by Intel's 200-Series chipset with Kaby Lake. It is rumoured that Kaby Lake CPUs …

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Intel's next-gen CPU architecture, Kaby Lake, is expected at some point in the coming months but for now Skylake remains the prominent choice for PC builders.  Z170 continues to be the flagship chipset for Intel's mainstream CPUs until it is replaced by Intel's 200-Series chipset with Kaby Lake.

ASUS_Z170_PRO_GAMING_AURA_650px1

It is rumoured that Kaby Lake CPUs will retain backwards compatibility with Z170 motherboards and thus a motherboard purchased now isn't likely to be immediately obsolete. ASUS certainly feels it is still worth investing in the Z170 platform as it has refreshed the Z170 Pro Gaming with the Z170 Pro Gaming AURA.

As the name would suggest it's largely the inclusion of the ASUS AURA RGB feature which differentiates this motherboard from its predecessor, though there are other subtle differences between the two models. One of the changes comes with the removal of SATA Express, something MSI has toyed with on a number of its gaming motherboards in recent times. SATA Express is, for all intents and purposes, a faltering interface that has supported nothing more than a few case accessories in recent years.

A new inclusion is the Safeslot PCI Express lane protector, something that debuted with the ROG STRIX X99 Gaming, which is designed to provide extra strength and rigidity against heavy graphics cards. Perhaps the most novel and unique feature for the Z170 Pro Gaming AURA is support for some 3D Printing and customisation options.

ASUS claims the Z170 Pro Gaming AURA is ‘the world's first motherboard with 3D Printing friendly design'. This is delivered by mounting holes and blueprints for 3D Printed accessories to fit in an area towards the lower portion of the motherboard. At present ASUS is providing some preliminary CAD files in .stp and .stl formats on an ROG forum thread but it anticipates that these files will be available on the download pages for relevant products in the near future as 3D Printing expands to more products.

ASUS Z170 Pro Gaming AURA
 CPU Socket
 LGA 1151, 10-phase VRM
 Chipset  Z170 Express
 Memory DDR4, 4 DIMMs, up to 3466+ MHz with OC
 Onboard Graphics
Intel HD Graphics, up to 1024MB shared memory
 Discrete Graphics Nvidia 2-Way or Quad SLI, AMD 3-Way or Quad CrossFireX
 Expansion Slots 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x16/0x or x8/x8)
1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4 electrical)
3 x PCIe 3.0 x1
 Storage 6 x SATA III
1 x M.2 (SATA and PCIe)
 USB 2 x USB 3.1 (Type A + C) via ASMedia (2 Rear)
6 x USB 3.0 via Intel Z170 (4 Rear 2 Front)
8 x USB 2.0 via Intel Z170 (2 Rear 6 Front)
 Networking Intel I219V Gigabit
 Audio  Realtek ALC1150 (Supreme FX)
  Fan Headers 5
 Rear I/O 1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port(s)
1 x DVI
1 x D-Sub
1 x DisplayPort
1 x HDMI
1 x LAN (RJ45) port(s)
1 x USB 3.1 (red)Type-A
1 x USB 3.1 Type-C
4 x USB 3.0
2 x USB 2.0
1 x Optical S/PDIF out
5 x Audio jack(s)
 UEFI UEFI AMI BIOS with 128Mb Flash ROM

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MSI Z170A Tomahawk Motherboard Review https://www.kitguru.net/components/ryan-martin/msi-z170a-tomahawk-motherboard-review/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/ryan-martin/msi-z170a-tomahawk-motherboard-review/#respond Thu, 05 May 2016 10:15:32 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=291303 MSI has delivered a bold and uniquely styled range of gaming motherboards for the Z170 platform since it's launch, the XPower Gaming Titanium and Gaming M7 are two excellent examples that we've tested here at KitGuru. Yet those motherboards are relatively expensive for any buyer looking for an affordable entry into the Skylake platform – …

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MSI has delivered a bold and uniquely styled range of gaming motherboards for the Z170 platform since it's launch, the XPower Gaming Titanium and Gaming M7 are two excellent examples that we've tested here at KitGuru. Yet those motherboards are relatively expensive for any buyer looking for an affordable entry into the Skylake platform – that's where MSI's Z170A Tomahawk comes into play with a more affordable price of around £100.

650px2

Although aesthetics are undoubtedly subjective, we think the MSI Z170A Tomahawk is one of the nicest looking Z170 gaming motherboards at the £100 price point. MSI is the only vendor to use a sleek matte-black PCB, no dark-brown in sight, and further boosts the unique design with white highlighted memory tracers.

The Z170A Tomahawk certainly impresses on first inspection in the style department, but how does the hardware and feature-set on offer stack up relative to the competition?

Surprisingly well, actually, though it's definitely a balancing act in how MSI have managed to achieve this price point. On the one hand all the basics are covered – 32Gb/s M.2, USB 3.1 10Gb/s, a quality 8 phase CPU VRM and MSI have even gone that extra mile with debug LEDs and a clear CMOS button . Yet, there are some obvious cost-saving measures including Realtek ALC892 audio and Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit LAN, that compares unfavourably to Realtek ALC1150 audio and Intel or Killer LAN on most other gaming motherboards.

Features:

  • Supports 6th Gen Intel® Core™ / Pentium® / Celeron® processors for LGA 1151 socket.
  • Supports DDR4-3600(0C).
  • DDR4 Boost: Give your DDR4 memory a performance boost.
  • GAMING LAN: The best online gaming experience with lowest latency.
  • GAMING DNA: LED ambient lights are added to give it an awesome look & feel, ready for battle.
  • Audio Boost: Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality.
  • Military Class 4: Top Quality & Stability.
  • Guard-Pro: Improved Protection and Power Efficiency.
  • MULTI-GPU with VGA Armor: VGA Armor PCI-E slots. Supports AMD Crossfire™.
  • Click BIOS5: Secure and Reliable UEFI BIOS solution.
  • EZ Debug LED: Easiest way to troubleshoot.
  • Overvoltage Protection:Prevent Unforeseen Damage.
  • 4K UHD Support: Ultra-high Definition Visual Experience.
  • GAMING CERTIFIED: 24-hour on- and offline game testing by eSports players for the best gaming experience.
  • WHQL CERTIFIED.WINDOWS 10 READY.
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£150 Gaming CPU: AMD FX 8370 (w/ Wraith) vs Intel Core i5-6400 https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/luke-hill/150-gaming-cpu-amd-fx-8370-w-wraith-vs-intel-core-i5-6400/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/luke-hill/150-gaming-cpu-amd-fx-8370-w-wraith-vs-intel-core-i5-6400/#comments Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:17:02 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=283867 There is little doubt that the two components most integral to a gaming system are its GPU and CPU. In an ideal world, everybody would be able to opt for the fastest of both and worry not about having to optimise game settings in search of smooth frame rates. But in reality, striking a balance …

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There is little doubt that the two components most integral to a gaming system are its GPU and CPU. In an ideal world, everybody would be able to opt for the fastest of both and worry not about having to optimise game settings in search of smooth frame rates. But in reality, striking a balance between GPU and CPU performance can be a tricky task, especially when the pair draw from the same cash pool.

It is no secret that Intel's latest Core i7 processors generally rule the roost when it comes to gaming performance on the CPU side. But they also demand a significant price premium over the lower-performance Intel and AMD chips that are commonly referred to as ‘good enough' for gaming requirements. It may be smarter to invest that £100+ section of budget into a faster graphics card rather than a flagship, Core i7-level CPU. And that's where today's ~£150 processors hit the limelight.

CPUs-650-2

Looking at the ~£150 CPU market reveals somewhat of a sweet-spot for gaming buyers. From AMD you get access to one of the higher-clocked FX-8xxx series 8-core ‘Vishera' CPUs. And at this price point, Intel gives desktop users the first taste of a true quad-core ‘Skylake' chip in the Core i5-6400.

Honing in on Intel's Core i5-6400 and AMD's FX 8370 CPU, which has been given a fresh lease of life thanks to an upgraded bundled CPU cooler known as ‘Wraith‘, it is clear to see the different competition approaches taken by each manufacturer at this point in the platforms' life-cycles.

AMD opts for a large number of cores operating at an equally high frequency, albeit with sharing of certain under-the-hood resources, to overcome the shackles attached by an aging architecture and transistor process node. Conversely, Intel is counting on greater Instructions Per Cycle (IPC) brought about by its newer CPU architecture to offset the i5-6400's low operating frequency on the chip's four non-Hyper-Threading cores.

But as the saying goes, “there is more than one way to skin a cat“. The same logic holds true for pushing pixels in modern gaming titles. Let's head over to the next few pages for a more in-depth CPU and platform comparison.

Processor Specifications:

CPU
AMD FX 8370 ‘Vishera'
Intel Core i5-6400 ‘Skylake'
Base Speed
4.0GHz
2.7GHz
Max Turbo Speed
4.3GHz
3.3GHz
Overclocking Support Multiplier and Bus Speed adjustment Potential BCLK adjustment
(using unofficial BIOS)
CPU Cores & Threads
8 Cores (8 Threads)
4 Cores (4 Threads)
Cache 8MB L3 + 4x2MB L2 6MB L3 + 4x256KB L2
Process (nm) 32 14
Memory Support
DDR3-1866MHz
DDR4-2133MHz / DDR3L-1600MHz
Integrated GPU Depends on motherboard chipset Intel HD 530 @ up to 950MHz
(disabled with Non-K OCing BIOS)
CPU Socket
AM3+
LGA1151
TDP (W)
125W
65W
Current Pricing
~£155
~£155
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Intel alters design of ‘Skylake’ processors to enhance security https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-alters-design-of-skylake-processors-to-enable-sgx-extensions/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-alters-design-of-skylake-processors-to-enable-sgx-extensions/#comments Sat, 03 Oct 2015 11:04:05 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=270469 Intel Corp. has announced that starting from late October it will ship new processors based on the “Skylake” micro-architecture with enabled Intel Software Guard Extensions (SGX) technology. The new central processing units will feature new S-Spec and MM numbers, but will continue to use  the same physical dies as existing CPUs. It is unclear why the …

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Intel Corp. has announced that starting from late October it will ship new processors based on the “Skylake” micro-architecture with enabled Intel Software Guard Extensions (SGX) technology. The new central processing units will feature new S-Spec and MM numbers, but will continue to use  the same physical dies as existing CPUs. It is unclear why the initial “Skylake” central processing units do not support SGX.

Intel Software Guard Extensions (Intel SGX) is a set of x86 extension designed to increase the security of software through an “inverse sandbox” mechanism. In this approach, instead of trying to identify and isolate all the malware on the platform, legitimate sensitive code and data can be sealed inside an enclave and protected from attack by the malware, irrespective of the privilege level of the latter. Intel SGX needs to be supported by processors, operating systems and applications to actually work. The SGX is not something that works automatically once a chip is installed.

intel_sgx_1

Intel’s new Core i7, Core i5 and Xeon E3 1200 v5 processors with new S-Spec and MM numbers will feature “a minor manufacturing configuration change to allow customers to enable Intel SGX” when using these chips. The stepping/revision of the central processing units will not change: the chips will feature “Skylake” silicon step R0. The CPUID signature will also remain the same as with the current chips – 0x506E3 Die size and package will not change for these processors. Intel will begin to ship new processors starting from the 26th of October, 2015.

intel_sgx_2 intel_sgx_3

Since the new chips are essentially the same as the contemporary CPUs and even do not need updated BIOS, Intel does not expect any re-qualification and/or validation for these microprocessors.

It is completely unclear why the first wave of Intel Core i7, Core i5 and Xeon E3 1200 v5 “Skylake” processors do not support SGX, which was first introduced back in 2013. As it turns out, “a minor manufacturing configuration change” can easily enable the technology, which is pretty useful if supported by applications.

The list of Intel Core and Xeon “Skylake” processors with and without SGX can be found HERE.

intel_skylake_slim

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Considering how minor the changes to the upcoming processors are, it is pretty clear that Intel had to speed up introduction of “Skylake” processors versus its original schedule by a couple of months. Perhaps, since the SGX technology was not extensively tested on “Skylake”, the chipmaker decided to block it on the S-Spec level. Anyway, if you use applications that actually take advantage of Intel’s SGX, wait for the new chips to arrive. S-Spec numbers of the new chips are listed in Intel’s document.

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Intel Pentium ‘Skylake’ processors make it to retail https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-pentium-skylake-processors-make-it-to-retail/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-pentium-skylake-processors-make-it-to-retail/#comments Wed, 30 Sep 2015 02:00:00 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=269993 The most affordable microprocessors based on the “Skylake” micro-architecture have finally managed to reach the market. The new Intel Pentium G4500T is now sold in select stores in Tokyo, Japan, and is expected to become available in other parts of the world, making low-cost PCs featuring the latest micro-architecture from Intel Corp. a reality. The Intel …

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The most affordable microprocessors based on the “Skylake” micro-architecture have finally managed to reach the market. The new Intel Pentium G4500T is now sold in select stores in Tokyo, Japan, and is expected to become available in other parts of the world, making low-cost PCs featuring the latest micro-architecture from Intel Corp. a reality.

The Intel Pentium G4500T is a dual-core processor without Hyper-Threading technology that runs at 3.00GHz, integrates 3MB last level cache, a dual-channel DDR3L/DDR4 memory controller as well as Intel HD Graphics 530 graphics adapter. The CPU is made using 14nm process technology, it has 35W thermal design power and comes in LGA1151 packaging. The chip officially costs $75 in 1000-unit quantities

The new Pentium G4500T is available in select stores in the famous Akihabara shopping district for ¥10300 ($86, £56.7), reports Akiba PC Hotline.

intel_pentium_g4500t

The new Intel Pentium processors based on the “Skylake” microarchitecture come with locked multiplier, which means that they cannot be easily overclocked unlike the “anniversary edition” Pentium chips featuring “Haswell” architecture. On the other hand, performance of a dual-core “Skylake” processor at 3.0GHz should be enough for mainstream tasks.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: If you intend to build an LGA1151 system, but have budget constraints, it may make sense to pick a high-quality mainboard and an Intel Pentium G4500T chip. Eventually, it will be possible to upgrade it and enjoy the benefits of advanced Intel Z170 platform.

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HP unveils entry-level workstation with Xeon Skylake, DDR4, fast SSDs https://www.kitguru.net/desktop-pc/anton-shilov/hp-unveils-entry-level-workstation-with-intel-xeon-skylake-ddr4-high-end-ssds/ https://www.kitguru.net/desktop-pc/anton-shilov/hp-unveils-entry-level-workstation-with-intel-xeon-skylake-ddr4-high-end-ssds/#comments Wed, 30 Sep 2015 00:20:54 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=269985 Hewlett-Packard has introduced its new-generation entry-level Z-series workstations that use a variety of new technologies, including Intel Corp.’s latest microprocessors. The new machines can run serious tasks, yet they feature compact sizes and relatively affordable price-points. The HP Z240 Tower and Z240 SFF [small form-factor] workstations are based on Intel’s Core i7/i5 or Xeon E3-1200 …

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Hewlett-Packard has introduced its new-generation entry-level Z-series workstations that use a variety of new technologies, including Intel Corp.’s latest microprocessors. The new machines can run serious tasks, yet they feature compact sizes and relatively affordable price-points.

The HP Z240 Tower and Z240 SFF [small form-factor] workstations are based on Intel’s Core i7/i5 or Xeon E3-1200 v5-series “Skylake” microprocessors in LGA1151 form-factor and the Intel C236 core-logic. The machines support up to 64GB PC4-17000 DDR4 memory and can be equipped with an HP Z Turbo Drive 2 solid-state drive (rebranded Samsung SM951 with PCIe 3.0 x4 interface), up to four Serial ATA-6Gb/s SSDs or hard disk drives, a professional graphics card from AMD or Nvidia and other hardware.

hp_z_workstation_xeon_skylake

The new HP Z240-series workstations are designed for video editing, MCAD/AEC, education, public sector and image viewing industries. The new microprocessors from Intel as well as a high-end solid-state drive should greatly help video editors to do their jobs.

“In anticipation of a customer demand for smaller yet powerful workstations, HP created the world's first small form factor workstation, the HP Z200 SFF,” said Jim Zafarana, vice president and general manager of workstations and thin clients at HP. “The latest in that line, the HP Z240, not only continues to provide customers a compact, affordable solution packed with the power of a traditional workstation, but it ups the ante for entry-level workstations with increased performance and new innovations.”

hp_z240_gallery_img1_tcm_245_2083275

The HP Z240 SFF and HP Z240 are expected to be available in November. Estimated U.S. pricing starts at $879 for either workstation.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While it is great to see HP announcing Intel Xeon “Skylake”-based workstations, it is quite surprising to see that the machines do not feature Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.1 or truly fast SSDs. While these are entry-level models, implementation of Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.1 is not expensive as well…

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Intel: Usage of DDR3 at default voltages can damage “Skylake” https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/intel-prolonged-usage-of-ddr3-memory-at-default-voltages-can-damage-skylake/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/intel-prolonged-usage-of-ddr3-memory-at-default-voltages-can-damage-skylake/#comments Mon, 28 Sep 2015 23:03:39 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=269764 Intel Corp.’s latest “Skylake” processors officially support only DDR3L and DDR4 memory, but there are motherboards for the new chips that can also use DDR3. While the chips can work with previous-gen memory, prolonged usage of such dynamic random access memory (DRAM) can damage microprocessors, according to Intel. DDR4 memory has default voltage of 1.2V, …

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Intel Corp.’s latest “Skylake” processors officially support only DDR3L and DDR4 memory, but there are motherboards for the new chips that can also use DDR3. While the chips can work with previous-gen memory, prolonged usage of such dynamic random access memory (DRAM) can damage microprocessors, according to Intel.

DDR4 memory has default voltage of 1.2V, whereas DDR3L memory has 1.35V supply voltage. By contrast, default voltage of DDR3 is 1.5V. Moreover, some enthusiast-class DDR3 have 1.65V supply voltage. DDR3 and DDR3L are compatible and DDR3 modules will work with Intel “Skylake” processors, however, 1.5V memory voltage can damage integrated memory controller of the central processing unit, according to Intel.

intel_skylake_chip

Even if DDR3 works initially on an appropriate LGA1151 motherboard, there is no guarantee that under stress the memory controller will not break down over time, reports Tom’s Hardware.

It should be noted that there are DDR3 memory modules with 1.35V default voltage. There are also DDR3L modules available from companies like Kingston.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: It looks like if you plan to use Intel “Skylake” processors, you should upgrade to DDR4 and not stick to your current modules…

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Asrock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming-ITX: Tiny mobo with 8-phase CPU VRM https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-fatal1ty-z170-gaming-itxac-tiny-gaming-platform-with-8-phase-cpu-vrm/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-fatal1ty-z170-gaming-itxac-tiny-gaming-platform-with-8-phase-cpu-vrm/#comments Sat, 26 Sep 2015 14:29:19 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=269617 Asrock has introduced its new Fatal1ty-branded mini-ITX high-end motherboard for gaming PCs. The new system board is designed for Intel “Skylake” processors and sports numerous advanced features that modern PC platforms can offer. Among the highlights are unique voltage regulator module, extreme overclocking capabilities, HDMI 2.0 connector that supports 4K output at 60Hz, USB 3.1 …

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Asrock has introduced its new Fatal1ty-branded mini-ITX high-end motherboard for gaming PCs. The new system board is designed for Intel “Skylake” processors and sports numerous advanced features that modern PC platforms can offer. Among the highlights are unique voltage regulator module, extreme overclocking capabilities, HDMI 2.0 connector that supports 4K output at 60Hz, USB 3.1 type-A and type-C ports as well as 802.11ac Wi-Fi.

The Asrock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming-ITX/ac is powered by the Intel Z170 core-logic and supports the latest central processing units in LGA1151 form-factor. The motherboard is built on a matte black glass-fabric eight-layer printed circuit board and uses various high-quality components, including solid-state Nichicon “12K platinum” capacitors with lifespans of at least 12000 hours, Elna audio capacitors and so on. One of the unique features of the Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming-ITX/ac is eight-phase digital voltage regulator module (VRM) that supports 60A current and consists of solid-state inductors and dual-stack MOSFETs.

asrock_fatality_z170_mini_itx

The advanced VRM should enable high overclocking potential for Intel’s latest processors, such as the Core i7-6700K or the Core i5-6600K. Moreover, Asrock claims that thanks to well-thought memory signal circuitry and high-quality power supply, the motherboard will be able to run two DDR4 memory modules at clock-rates beyond 4GHz (providing CPUs over 64GB/s of bandwidth).

Another unique feature of the Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming-ITX/ac is HDMI 2.0 output, which is enabled by a special controller chip. The IC fully supports output in 4K resolutions (3840*2160, 4096*2160, etc.) with 60Hz refresh rate as well as HDCP 2.2, which is required to playback Ultra HD Blu-ray movies. The HDMI 2.0 connector only works with Intel integrated graphics, which is a pity, as Intel’s “Skylake” processors in LGA1151 packaging do not feature high-performance integrated graphics cores.

asrock_fatality_z170_mini_itx_1

The Asrock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming-ITX/ac sports two DDR4 memory slots, one PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot for graphics adapters, one high-performance M.2 connector (with PCI Express 3.0 x4 interface) for high-end solid-state drives in 2260/2280 form-factors, one SATA Express connector, four Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports, 7.1-channel audio, one USB 3.1 type-A and one USB type-C (up to 3A current supported) port, six USB 3.0 connectors, and so on.

Like competing high-end mini-ITX motherboards, the Asrock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming-ITX/ac features one Intel’s Gigabit Ethernet (I219-V) controller as well as a 2×2 (2T2R) dual-band 2.4/5GHz 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi mini-PCIe module with up to 867Mb/s transfer rate and Bluetooth v4.0 technology.

asrock_fatality_z170_mini_itx_2_sq

The Asrock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming-ITX/ac motherboard is a yet another premium platform for small form-factor PCs with incredible performance. Bearing in mind the unique feature-set, high-quality components, overclocking potential and support for high-end hardware, do not expect this mainboard to be affordable. Exact pricing is unknown, but it will cost above average mini-ITX system boards.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: It looks like mini-ITX is a new major trend in the world of gaming PCs. When makers of motherboards openly advertise overclocking on such platforms, it means a lot of gamers are actually interested in building small form-factor PCs, but want to sustain overclocking features. Now, companies like AMD and Nvidia have to find a way to enable multi-GPU in such systems.

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Gigabyte Z170X-SOC Force LN2 for extreme overclockers is closing in https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/gigabytes-z170x-soc-force-ln2-mainboard-for-extreme-overclockers-is-getting-closer/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/gigabytes-z170x-soc-force-ln2-mainboard-for-extreme-overclockers-is-getting-closer/#respond Thu, 24 Sep 2015 23:37:37 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=269229 Earlier this year it transpired that Gigabyte Technology was working on a new ‘Super Overclock’ motherboard designed for extreme overclocking and setting records in benchmarks. As it appears, the release of the platform is getting closer. The Gigabyte Z170X-SOC Force LN2-CF platform was designed from the ground up to offer incredible overclocking potential as well …

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Earlier this year it transpired that Gigabyte Technology was working on a new ‘Super Overclock’ motherboard designed for extreme overclocking and setting records in benchmarks. As it appears, the release of the platform is getting closer.

The Gigabyte Z170X-SOC Force LN2-CF platform was designed from the ground up to offer incredible overclocking potential as well as sophisticated tweaking capabilities. The motherboard features a unique 22-phase voltage regulator module for CPU and memory that is based on solid-state inductors and high-end capacitors. Gigabyte hopes that the Z170X-SOC Force LN2 will be the best mainboard for overclocking of Intel Corp.’s “Skylake” microprocessors and DDR4 memory.

gigabyte_z170c_soc_force
Gigabyte Z170X-SOC Force. Image by Zolkorn.com

Earlier this year the Z170X-SOC Force LN2 already demonstrated a great DDR4 overclocking potential, but as the platform nears its launch, it is getting better reports HWbot. HiCookie, a renowned professional overclocker, has managed to push two upcoming DDR4 4400MHz modules from G.Skill to 4544MHz in dual-channel mode using the mainboard and an engineering sample of Intel’s Core i7-6700K microprocessor. The 4544MHz is not a record for dual-channel DDR4 memory sub-systems, but it is very close. Moreover, the memory functioned at 4.54GHz with 1.35V voltage and even passed the MemTest.

The Z170X-SOC Force LN2 from Gigabyte comes in E-ATX form-factor and is not compatible with mainstream PC cases. The platform features four PCI Express x16 slots for graphics cards or solid-state drives, three high-performance M.2 connectors (with PCIe 3.0 x4 interface), four SATA Express connectors, advanced 7.1-channel audio and so on. The motherboard can be used for setting benchmark records or to build ultimate gaming machines with multiple graphics cards and solid-state drives.

gigabyte_z170_soc_ln2_hicookie-link

The Z170X-SOC Force LN2 platform is still not available, but it looks like it is on the finish line. The motherboard will be made in limited quantities and will be very expensive.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: It will be very interesting to see whether the Gigabyte Z170X-SOC Force LN2 will help to push Intel Core i7-6700K and DDR4 to new heights. Will the chip hit 7GHz and memory conquer 5GHz frequency? We will find out soon enough!

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G.Skill readies Trident Z DDR4 modules with 4.40GHz clock-rate https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/g-skill-readies-trident-z-ddr4-modules-with-4-40ghz-clock-rate/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/memory/anton-shilov/g-skill-readies-trident-z-ddr4-modules-with-4-40ghz-clock-rate/#respond Thu, 24 Sep 2015 10:16:57 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=269142 G.Skill is working on new Trident Z memory modules, which will hit unbelievable 4.40GHz frequency. The modules are designed for extreme enthusiasts and will be compatible with select Intel Z170-based platforms for overclockers. G.Skill’s Trident Z DDR4-4400 (PC4-35200) memory modules will feature 4GB capacity and will be based on hand-selected Samsung memory chips as well …

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G.Skill is working on new Trident Z memory modules, which will hit unbelievable 4.40GHz frequency. The modules are designed for extreme enthusiasts and will be compatible with select Intel Z170-based platforms for overclockers.

G.Skill’s Trident Z DDR4-4400 (PC4-35200) memory modules will feature 4GB capacity and will be based on hand-selected Samsung memory chips as well as specially designed printed-circuit boards. The modules will run at 4400MHz with CL19 latencies and up to 1.40V voltage. The devices will support Intel’s extreme memory profiles (XMP 2.0) for DDR4 memory and will be able to set extreme clock-rates on compatible mainboards automatically.

gskill_trident_z_ddr4_system

At present, G.Skill is testing its 4400MHz DDR4 memory modules with makers of mainboards and professional overclockers. It is highly likely that “officially” such devices will be compatible with select enthusiast-class motherboards for Intel Corp.'s “Skylake” processors powered by the Z170 chipset. Keeping in mind extreme frequency of the upcoming Trident Z modules, mainboards that will work with them will have to feature not only high-quality DDR4 circuitry and power supply, but also appropriate XMP 2.0 profile in BIOS.

The DDR4 memory modules from G.Skill capable of operating at 4.40GHz will be available in 8GB dual-channel kits. Exact pricing is unknown, but given the fact that the modules are unique, they are going be expensive.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The DDR4 SDRAM memory standard officially supports clock-rates up to 4.26GHz. Therefore, producers of dynamic random access memory will try to hit that clock-rate “officially” in the coming years. The fastest DDR4 chips produced using 20nm/21nm process technology by companies like Samsung Electronics or SK Hynix are rated to run at 2.40GHz – 2.66GHz. Their high overclocking potential and selection process at companies like G.Skill allow building memory modules capable of running at 4.40GHz. Imagine what producers of modules will do with ICs officially capable of running at 4.26GHz…

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Asustek unveils ultimate mini-ITX mainboard for ‘Skylake’ CPUs https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asustek-unveils-ultimate-mini-itx-mainboard-for-skylake-cpus/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asustek-unveils-ultimate-mini-itx-mainboard-for-skylake-cpus/#comments Thu, 24 Sep 2015 07:30:13 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=269102 Asustek Computer this week introduced its Z170I Pro Gaming mainboard, which is desinged for Intel Corp.’s latest microprocessors code-named “Skylake” and provides ultimate feature-set. The platform not only uses high-quality/high-performance components and has rich expansion capabilities, but even features advanced overclocking functionality. The Asus Z170I Pro Gaming is based on the Intel Z170 core-logic set and  supports …

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Asustek Computer this week introduced its Z170I Pro Gaming mainboard, which is desinged for Intel Corp.’s latest microprocessors code-named “Skylake” and provides ultimate feature-set. The platform not only uses high-quality/high-performance components and has rich expansion capabilities, but even features advanced overclocking functionality.

The Asus Z170I Pro Gaming is based on the Intel Z170 core-logic set and  supports all modern LGA1151 microprocessors, including the top-of-the-range Intel Core i7-6700K. It features four-phase digital voltage regulator module consisting of high-quality solid-state inductors and capacitors. The manufacturer claims that the mainboard fully supports advanced overclocking capabilities, including overclocking of CPU base-clock, voltage increases and so on. The motherboard can even run DDR4 memory at frequencies of 4000MHz (4GHz), thus providing processors up to 64GB/s of bandwidth.

asus_z170i_pro_gaming_1

Asustek’s Z170I Pro Gaming mainboard comes with two DDR4 memory slots, one PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot for graphics cards, one high-performance M.2 connector (with PCI Express 3.0 x4 interface) for advanced solid-state drives in 2242/2260/2280 form-factors, one SATA Express connector, two Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports, 7.1-channel Supreme FX audio with headphone amplifier and 115db sound-to-noise ratio stereo output, two USB 3.1 type-A ports, six USB 3.0 ports, and so on.

Networking capabilities of the Asus Z170I Pro Gaming are top-notch. The motherboard features Intel’s Gigabit Ethernet (I219-V) controller with Asus LANGuard and GameFirst technology, which prioritizes gaming traffic and minimizes latencies. The mainboard also comes with dual-band 2.4/5GHz 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi module with MU-MIMO support as well as Bluetooth v4.1 technology. Maximum transfer-rate supported by the Wi-Fi module is up to 867Mb/s.

asus_z170i_pro_gaming

The combination of rich feature-set, high-quality components and overclocking functionality clearly position the Asus Z170I Pro Gaming as a high-end platform for mini-PCs. Exact pricing of Asustek’s Z170I Pro Gaming is unknown, but typically such mainboards are not affordable.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Just several years ago mini-ITX mainboards for gamers were full of compromises. Today, mini-ITX systems can easily rival full-size desktops in terms of performance, functionality and even overclocking potential. It remains to be seen when companies like Asustek Computer find a way to squeeze two graphics cards into those tiny boxes. While it is not easy to do, technically it is possible…

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Intel drained PC channel inventory to speed up transition to ‘Skylake’, Windows 10 https://www.kitguru.net/desktop-pc/anton-shilov/intel-helped-to-drain-pc-channel-inventory-to-speed-up-transition-to-skylake-windows-10/ https://www.kitguru.net/desktop-pc/anton-shilov/intel-helped-to-drain-pc-channel-inventory-to-speed-up-transition-to-skylake-windows-10/#comments Wed, 23 Sep 2015 21:07:47 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=268987 Sales of personal computers have been sluggish in the recent quarters, which decreased revenue of PC makers and PC hardware manufacturers. Apparently, Intel Corp. has prepared for slow demand for PCs and significantly reduced shipments of its central processing units in the first half of the year, draining inventory at PC makers. As a result, …

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Sales of personal computers have been sluggish in the recent quarters, which decreased revenue of PC makers and PC hardware manufacturers. Apparently, Intel Corp. has prepared for slow demand for PCs and significantly reduced shipments of its central processing units in the first half of the year, draining inventory at PC makers. As a result, the company can now sell more “Skylake” processors.

Traditionally, Intel Corp. ships more central processing units in the first half of the year to prepare for increased demand for personal computers in the second half. In fact, the chip giant ships more CPUs in the first half than PC makers and other partners can sell. The tactics allows manufacturers of computers to assemble enough systems for the back half of the year. However, this year new processors from Intel and new operating system from Microsoft were released in the second half of the year, which means that demand for PCs was expected to be low in the 1H 2015. As a result, Intel changed its traditional tactics this year.

intel_presentation_skylake

“Our analysis suggests the company has in fact been draining channel inventory in the first half of the year, in stark contrast to their typical pattern (namely, first half channel builds, followed by second half channel drains), in a market where PC vendors themselves are also flushing inventory, and suggesting the idea of a 2H fill on the back of Windows 10 and Skylake may not be entirely crazy,” wrote Stacy Rasgon, an analyst with Bernstein Research, reports Tech Trader Daily. “In 1H 2015 Intel seems to have under-shipped the PC market by ~three million units, versus their normal behavior to over-ship by ~eight million, suggesting ~two weeks of inventory out of the channel vs where they would normally be positioned.”

Since PC makers may not have enough microprocessors in stock right now, they will need to buy Intel’s new chips, thus increasing revenue of the chip giant. Such situation also helps Intel to maintain its prices despite of slow demand for PCs. In addition, it helps to transit to newer “Skylake” platforms faster, which is a good news for the industry in general.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Keeping in mind slow demand for PCs, it made a great sense for Intel to drain inventories of old chips in the first half of the year. This greatly helps Intel and the industry to transit to “Skylake” processors, DDR4 memory, Windows 10 operating system and new PC platforms faster. On the other hand, this increases pressure on smaller PC makers as well as Advanced Micro Devices.

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MSI starts to sell its top-of-the-range Z170A Xpower Gaming Titanium https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-finally-starts-to-sell-its-top-of-the-range-z170a-xpower-gaming-titanium-edition/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-finally-starts-to-sell-its-top-of-the-range-z170a-xpower-gaming-titanium-edition/#respond Fri, 18 Sep 2015 13:56:51 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=268421 Although makers of mainboards tend to start selling their high-end products right after developers of microprocessors introduce their new central processing units, some unique products take longer time to develop. MicroStar International on Friday said that its top-of-the-range Z170A Xpower Gaming Titanium Edition mainboard – which features an distinctive silver colour – is finally available in the …

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Although makers of mainboards tend to start selling their high-end products right after developers of microprocessors introduce their new central processing units, some unique products take longer time to develop. MicroStar International on Friday said that its top-of-the-range Z170A Xpower Gaming Titanium Edition mainboard – which features an distinctive silver colour – is finally available in the U.K.

The MSI Z170A Xpower Gaming Titanium Edition is a unique platform for overclockers, which features a matchless 16-phase digital voltage regulator module designed to provide very clean power to Intel Core “Skylake” central processing units. The VRM is comprised of brand new inductors, which MSI calls “titanium chokes”, that promise to withstand higher temperatures, enable better overclocking and endure a longer lifecycle.

msi_z170a_titanium

The Z170A Xpower Gaming Titanium mainboard features four DDR4 DIMM slots, four PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots for graphics cards or solid-state drives, two M.2 slots (with PCIe 3.0 x4 interface) for high-performance SSDs that can be used in RAID 0 mode for extreme performance, two SATA Express set of connectors, advanced AudioBoost3 7.1-channel audio with EMI-shielded circuitry, USB 3.1 and so on.

Since the Z170A Xpower Gaming Titanium Edition is MSI’s top-of-the-range Intel Z170-based solution, it offers all the features and functions found on other platforms from the Z170A Gaming family.

The mainboard has already made itself a name as an extremely good overclocking platform for processors and memory. For example, Toppc, a professional overclocker from Taiwan, has managed to overclock an engineering sample of the Intel Core i7-6700K processor to whopping 6801.63MHz with all four cores and Hyper-Threading Technology active. Toppc has also managed to push two DDR4 memory modules in dual-channel mode all the way to 4605MHz.

msi_titanium_z170

Right now, the MSI Z170A Xpower Gaming Titanium Edition is available from Overclockers UK, Scan and Dabs. In the U.K. the ultimate Intel Z170 mainboard from MicroStar International costs from £227 to £229.99. Next week the mainboard will also become available at Amazon, eBuyer, Novatech and other.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Without any doubts, the Z170A Xpower Gaming Titanium Edition from MSI is an expensive platform. However, keeping in mind overclocking capabilities and overclocking potential of the motherboard as well as its rich expansion capabilities, the price seems to be completely justified.

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MSI unveils Night Elf: Inexpensive Intel B150 mainboard for gamers https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-unveils-night-elf-inexpensive-intel-b150-mainboard-for-gamers/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-unveils-night-elf-inexpensive-intel-b150-mainboard-for-gamers/#comments Fri, 18 Sep 2015 00:58:39 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=268349 MicroStar International has unveiled its new mainboard for Intel Corp.’s latest code-named “Skylake” processors that belongs to its Gaming family of platforms designed for gamers, but which costs significantly less than higher-end solutions. The MSI B150M Night Elf mainboard does not support overclocking or other advanced capabilities of modern motherboards. The MSI B150M Night Elf …

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MicroStar International has unveiled its new mainboard for Intel Corp.’s latest code-named “Skylake” processors that belongs to its Gaming family of platforms designed for gamers, but which costs significantly less than higher-end solutions. The MSI B150M Night Elf mainboard does not support overclocking or other advanced capabilities of modern motherboards.

The MSI B150M Night Elf mainboard for Intel “Skylake” processors in LGA1151 packaging comes in micro-ATX form-factor and features 6-phase voltage regulator module for CPUs, which consists of solid-state inductors and capacitors. The platform is powered by the entry-level Intel B150 core-logic set that only supports eight PCI Express 3.0 lanes and is generally aimed at office PCs.

msi_b150m_night_elf

The new B150M Night Elf mainboard sports four DDR4 memory slots, two PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots for graphics cards (one of which can operate in PCIe 3.0 x4 mode), two PCIe x1 slots for add-in-cards, six Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports, 8-channel audio, six USB 3.0 ports, Gigabit Ethernet (based in Intel I219 controller) and so on. The mainboard only has one DVI output and hence is not compatible with DisplayPort or HDMI monitors unless a discrete graphics adapter is used.

msi_b150m_night_elf_1

While the MSI B150M Night Elf platform formally belongs to the MSI Gaming family, this one does not support contemporary I/O capabilities, such as M.2 slot for solid-state drives, SATA Express connector, USB 3.1 ports and so on. Several things that actually differentiate the Night Elf from inexpensive solutions for office PCs are the red LED illumination, EMI-shielded audio sub-system, MSI Gaming LAN software that automatically prioritizes games above other applications as well as support for DDR4 memory tweaking.

Exact price of the MSI B150M Night Elf is unknown, but it should be pretty low.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Usage if Intel B150 core-logic for a gaming mainboard is a very strange decision. The B150M is not designed for personal computers with high-end standalone graphics adapters or high-performance storage devices. Nonetheless, features like red LED illumination, MSI Gaming LAN software and some other clearly point to the fact that it is indeed a solution for gaming PCs. On the other hand, if you are building a very inexpensive machine, the Night Elf may be a rather good solution: it has high-quality VRMs, four DDR4 memory slots, Gigabit Ethernet, 8-channel audio and so on.

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Intel will begin to sell mainstream ‘Skylake’ CPUs in late September https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-will-begin-to-sell-mainstream-skylake-cpus-for-desktops-in-late-september/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-will-begin-to-sell-mainstream-skylake-cpus-for-desktops-in-late-september/#comments Tue, 15 Sep 2015 23:51:37 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=267953 Even though Intel Corp. has formally introduced code-named “Skylake” microprocessors for desktop computers, many of such central processing units are still not available. Apparently, Intel only intends to start their sales to end-users in late September. It is not a secret that Intel’s latest CPUs for enthusiasts that feature unlocked multiplier – the Core i7-6700K …

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Even though Intel Corp. has formally introduced code-named “Skylake” microprocessors for desktop computers, many of such central processing units are still not available. Apparently, Intel only intends to start their sales to end-users in late September.

It is not a secret that Intel’s latest CPUs for enthusiasts that feature unlocked multiplier – the Core i7-6700K and the Core i5-6600K – are in tight supply and are not available everywhere. According to sources with knowledge of the matter, shortages of “Skylake” microprocessors are conditioned by the fact that Intel had to unveil them earlier than it originally planned, which means that chip giant had to change its internal production schedules for such chips.

The family of mainstream “Skylake” processors for desktops will formally hit the markets in the U.S. and Europe on the 27th of September, reports CPU-World. Availability of such chips should be somewhat better than the current availability of unlocked microprocessors, but given the current shortages and pre-orders at retailers, it will take some time before all “Skylake” chips will be readily available at all times.

intel_skylake_chip

The top makers of mainboards have already introduced their full ranges of desktop motherboards for Intel’s “Skylake” processors in LGA1151 form-factor based on different core-logic sets and available at various price-points. Once Intel begins to sell its latest chips, systems on the new CPUs will become available more or less widely.

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While it is clear that Intel and partners will release mainstream “Skylake” products in late September, what remains to be seen is when the company intends to solve availability problems with the Core i7-6700K and the Core i5-6600K chips.

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Asrock unveils mainboard for ‘Skylake’ with DDR3 and DDR4 memory slots https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-unveils-mainboard-for-skylake-cpus-with-ddr3-and-dd4-memory-slots/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asrock-unveils-mainboard-for-skylake-cpus-with-ddr3-and-dd4-memory-slots/#comments Tue, 15 Sep 2015 00:16:16 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=267754 Asrock has quietly unveiled a unique mainboard for Intel Corp.’s latest processors code-named “Skylake”, which features both DDR3 and DDR4 memory slots. The motherboard is an affordable platform, but it can be used to build rather high-performance personal computers for gaming. The Asrock B150M Combo-G mainboard for Intel “Skylake” processors in LGA1151 packaging is based on …

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Asrock has quietly unveiled a unique mainboard for Intel Corp.’s latest processors code-named “Skylake”, which features both DDR3 and DDR4 memory slots. The motherboard is an affordable platform, but it can be used to build rather high-performance personal computers for gaming.

The Asrock B150M Combo-G mainboard for Intel “Skylake” processors in LGA1151 packaging is based on the Intel B150 core-logic, which features modern functionality, but does not support overclocking of central processing units. The micro-ATX motherboard is built on high-density glass fabric printed circuit board and features six-phase digital voltage regulator module with high-quality solid-state inductors.

asrock_b150_ddr3_ddr_1

The new motherboard from Asrock can work with DDR3/DDR3L and DDR4 memory modules, but not simultaneously. Compatibility with two types of dynamic random access memory is the key feature of the platform.

The B150M Combo-G mainboard is equipped with two PCI Express x16 slots, one PCI Express x1 slot, six Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports, one SATA Express port, six USB 3.0 connectors, Intel Gigabit Ethernet controller, 7.1-channel audio based on the ALC887 audio codec with ELNA capacitors and so on.

asrock_b150_ddr3_ddr4

Exact pricing of the Asrock B150M Combo-G is unknown, but given rather modest functionality, the platform will not be expensive. It is expected that the mainboard will hit the market shortly.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Keeping in mind that DDR4 memory is still more expensive than DDR3, it makes a great sense to use the latter for inexpensive systems running Intel “Skylake” microprocessors. Such PCs can be upgraded with DDR4 memory modules later.

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Gigabyte unveils high-end Intel Z170-based mini-ITX mainboard https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/gigabyte-unveils-high-end-intel-z170-based-mini-itx-mainboard/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/gigabyte-unveils-high-end-intel-z170-based-mini-itx-mainboard/#comments Tue, 01 Sep 2015 23:34:21 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=265855 Gigabyte Technology has introduced its new mini-ITX mainboard for Intel Corp.’s “Skylake” processors with premium features. The new platform supports a number of advanced technologies, including Creative SoundBlaster audio enhancements, USB 3.1 type-C port, 802.11ac Wi-Fi and so on. The Gigabyte GA-Z170N-Gaming 5 mainboard based on the Intel Z170 core-logic with LGA1151 socket is designed for …

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Gigabyte Technology has introduced its new mini-ITX mainboard for Intel Corp.’s “Skylake” processors with premium features. The new platform supports a number of advanced technologies, including Creative SoundBlaster audio enhancements, USB 3.1 type-C port, 802.11ac Wi-Fi and so on.

The Gigabyte GA-Z170N-Gaming 5 mainboard based on the Intel Z170 core-logic with LGA1151 socket is designed for Intel’s latest Core i-series “Skylake” microprocessors and has high-quality five-phase voltage regulator module (VRM). The motherboard features 24-pin ATX main power connector and 8-pin ATX 12V power connector.

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The new GA-Z170N-Gaming 5 mainboard sports two DDR4 memory slots, one reinforced PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot for graphics cards, one high-performance M.2 connector (with PCI Express 3.0 x4 interface) for advanced solid-state drives, two SATA Express connectors, six Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports, 8-channel Realtek ALC1150 audio with Creative SoundBlaster X-Fi MB3 software enhancements, six USB 3.0 ports, one USB 3.1 type-C port powered by an Intel USB 3.1 controller and so on.

The new mini-ITX mainboard features advanced networking connectivity capabilities, such as a Killer E2200 Gigabit Ethernet controller that speeds up gaming traffic and minimizes latency. In addition, the mainboard is equipped with an Intel mini PCI Express card with Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2 support. The Wi-Fi solution has two antennas and supports bandwidth of up to 867Mb/s.

The GA-Z170N-Gaming 5 mainboard uses high-quality components, including solid-state chokes and capacitors to improve durability of the product. Like other Intel Z170-based motherboards, the mini-ITX mainboard from Gigabyte supports basic overclocking capabilities.

gigabyte_z170_mini-ITX_mainboard

Pricing of Gigabyte’s GA-Z170N-Gaming 5 is unknown, but do not expect it to be affordable. The mainboard features a number of high-end technologies and will naturally belong to the list of Gigabyte's premium products.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The Gigabyte GA-Z170N-Gaming 5 will allow to build very high-end systems in a very small form-factor. In fact, the only technology that the mainboard does not seem to support is Thunderbolt 3, which is supported by larger motherboards based on Intel Z170 from Gigabyte.

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Asus TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1: Extreme performance and durability https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asus-unveils-tuf-sabertooth-z170-mark-1-extreme-performance-and-durability/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/asus-unveils-tuf-sabertooth-z170-mark-1-extreme-performance-and-durability/#comments Sat, 29 Aug 2015 10:12:00 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=265453 Asustek Computer has introduced its TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 mainboard for Intel Corp.’s latest “Skylake” processors, which combines excellent expansion capabilities, advanced connectivity, sophisticated overclocking features with ultimate durability and five-year warranty. The platform is designed for those, who not only want high performance, but maximum reliability too. The Asus TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark …

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Asustek Computer has introduced its TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 mainboard for Intel Corp.’s latest “Skylake” processors, which combines excellent expansion capabilities, advanced connectivity, sophisticated overclocking features with ultimate durability and five-year warranty. The platform is designed for those, who not only want high performance, but maximum reliability too.

The Asus TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 mainboard is based on the Intel Z70 core-logic and is designed for various Core i-series, Pentium and Celeron processors in LGA1151 form-factor based on the “Skylake” micro-architecture. The motherboard features four 288-pin DDR4 DIMM slots, three PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots for graphics cards and solid-state drives, three PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x4 slots for add-in-boards, one high-performance M.2 connector for SSDs (PCIe 3.0 x4), two SATA Express connectors and six Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports for various storage devices. The new platform is equipped with Asmedia’s ASM1142 USB 3.1 controller that provides one USB 3.1 type-A and one USB 3.1 type-C ports. The motherboard also features dual Gigabit Ethernet powered by Intel I218-V controller, Realtek ALC1150 8-channel audio, USB 2.0, USB 3.0 ports and so on.

asus_tuf_intel_z170_mainboard_2

The TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 motherboard features the company’s advanced 8+4-phase Digi+ voltage regulator module for microprocessors, which uses high-end solid-state metal alloy inductors manufactured using high-grade anti-oxidization materials and encapsulated into special metallic casing for better cooling, high-quality MOSFETs with extended durability as well as solid-state 10K-Ti capacitors. The VRM of the TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 was designed not only to provide enhanced overclocking potential and endure heavy loads, but to do it for prolonged amounts of time.

asus_tuf_intel_z170_mainboard

Like all Asus TUF-series motherboards, the TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 is built with “military-certified” components, such as Japanese-made 10K black metallic capacitors (with enhanced temperature endurance and longer lifespan), advanced MOSFETs and chokes as well as multi-layer printed circuit board.

Asustek’s new TUF Sabertooth mainboard also features TUF LANGuard technology, which protects the Ethernet ports against lightning strikes and electrostatic discharge; completely reworked ESD Guards 2 technology, which protect all of the rear IO ports against inadvertent electrostatic discharges when connectors are inserted; shielded audio circuits as well as USB over-voltage protection.

asus_tuf_intel_z170_mainboard_1

The new TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 motherboard comes with redesigned TUF Fortifier front- and back-plates, which protect against dust and prevent the mainboard from bowing and bending when heavy cooling systems and graphics adapters are installed. The new platform also features 12 fan connectors as well as TUF ICe onboard processor that monitors onboard temperature sensors and fan speeds for ultra-accurate cooling.

Every TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 motherboard undergoes exhausting burn-in tests, with temperatures of up to 55°C for 48 hours and at humidity levels as high as 90%. Every mainboard is also subjected to a prolonged extreme-temperature test of up to 60°C at 90% humidity, as well as undergoing rigorous thermal-shock tests.

asus_tuf_intel_z170_mainboard_3

The Asus TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 mainboard is set to become available in the coming weeks. Like all TUF platforms, this one is going to be rather expensive due to the fact that it is certified for 24/7 durability and is covered by unprecedented five-year warranty.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: There is a wide range of mainboards from different manufacturers for Intel “Skylake” processors, which provide ultimate overclocking capabilities, are designed to run in overclocked mode and provide great expansion features. Without any doubts, those motherboards are made using high-quality components and will last for a long time. However, just in case a high-quality Intel Z170 mainboard is not enough for you, Asustek’s TUF Sabertooth Z170 Mark 1 motherboard will provide ultimate durability, enthusiast-class features and five-year warranty. By contrast, workstation and server-grade mainboards from renowned manufacturers do not support overclocking capabilities, lack rich connectivity and come with three-year warranties. Ironically, their prices are similar to those of TUF-series motherboards from Asus.

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MSI readies Intel Z170 mini-ITX mainboard with premium features https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-readies-intel-z170-mini-itx-mainboard-with-premium-features/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-readies-intel-z170-mini-itx-mainboard-with-premium-features/#comments Thu, 27 Aug 2015 21:22:15 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=265239 MicroStar International is preparing to release one of the industry’s first premium mainboards for Intel Corp.’s “Skylake” microprocessors in mini-ITX form-factor. The new motherboard will support all features essential for modern high-performance personal computers and will even have overclocking capabilities. The MSI Z170I Gaming Pro AC platform is based on the Intel Z170 core-logic set …

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MicroStar International is preparing to release one of the industry’s first premium mainboards for Intel Corp.’s “Skylake” microprocessors in mini-ITX form-factor. The new motherboard will support all features essential for modern high-performance personal computers and will even have overclocking capabilities.

The MSI Z170I Gaming Pro AC platform is based on the Intel Z170 core-logic set and is designed for Intel’s latest central processing units powered by the “Skylake” micro-architecture in LGA1151 form-factor. The mainboard comes with five-phase voltage regulator module for CPU as well as 24-pin ATX and 8-pin EPS power connectors, reports TechPowerUp.

msi_z170_mini-itx

The new Z170I Gaming Pro AC motherboard features two DDR4 memory slots, one PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot for graphics cards, one high-performance M.2 connector (with PCI Express 3.0 x4 interface) for solid-state drives on the reverse side of the PCB, one SATA Express connector, four Serial ATA-6Gb/s ports, 8-channel audio, six USB 3.0 ports and so on.

The mainboard has rich networking connectivity options, including a Gigabit Ethernet controller as well as a mini PCI Express card with Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.0 support.

The MSI Z170I Gaming Pro AC motherboard belongs to MSI Gaming lineup of products and thus supports basic overclocking capabilities, including DDR4 Boost technology and CPU tuning features.

msi_z170_mini-itx_1

The new mini-ITX mainboard from MSI will be among the first small form-factor platforms for Intel “Skylake” processors. The motherboard will hit the market in the coming weeks. Pricing of the MSI Z170I Gaming Pro AC is unknown, but it is unlikely that it will be too expensive.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Just imagine, a mini-ITX system featuring a quad-core Intel Core i7-6700K processor, an AMD Radeon R9 Nano graphics card, a Samsung SM951 512GB M.2 solid-state drive, 32GB of high-performance DDR4 memory at 3200MHz as well as a 6TB high-performance WD Black hard disk drive. Sounds like a dream PC, isn’t it? This is what the MSI Z170I Gaming Pro AC motherboard allows one to build.

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Deepcool introduces Lucifer K2 high-end CPU cooler https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/deepcool-introduces-lucifer-k2-high-end-cpu-cooler/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/deepcool-introduces-lucifer-k2-high-end-cpu-cooler/#comments Wed, 26 Aug 2015 00:07:19 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=264881 Deepcool, a well-known producer of high-end coolers and computer cases, on Tuesday introduced its new-generation Gamer Storm Lucifer K2 cooler, which supports all microprocessors available today, including the latest Intel Core i7/i5 “Skylake” central processing units in LGA1151 packaging. The Deepcool Gamer Storm Lucifer K2 processor cooler features massive aluminium heatsink (with more than 1,000,000mm² …

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Deepcool, a well-known producer of high-end coolers and computer cases, on Tuesday introduced its new-generation Gamer Storm Lucifer K2 cooler, which supports all microprocessors available today, including the latest Intel Core i7/i5 “Skylake” central processing units in LGA1151 packaging.

The Deepcool Gamer Storm Lucifer K2 processor cooler features massive aluminium heatsink (with more than 1,000,000mm² total area) with six copper heatpipes, copper base and a high-quality 120mm slim PWM fan. According to the manufacturer, the cooling system can cool-down CPUs with up to 130W thermal design power with 600±150 – 1800±10% revolutions per minute.

Lucifer k2 1

Central processing units with low TDP can be cooled down passively using the Deepcool Gamer Storm Lucifer K2 cooler with the help of good airflow channel inside the case. Usage of a slim fan ensures lack of problems with installation of memory modules.

Lucifer K2 5

The Lucifer K2 cooler is compatible with all modern and outdated microprocessors from Advanced Micro Devices and Intel Corp.

The Lucifer K2 will be available globally on early September 2015. Recommended price of the product is $79.99.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The original Lucifer cooler was a good performer and the Lucifer K2 has all chances to be a nice cooling system as well. Unfortunately, it is not exactly affordable, but good things tend to cost more than ordinary products.

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Intel readies ‘5×5’ upgradeable mini PC form-factor with LGA socket https://www.kitguru.net/desktop-pc/anton-shilov/intel-readies-5x5-upgradeable-mini-pc-platform-with-lga-socket/ https://www.kitguru.net/desktop-pc/anton-shilov/intel-readies-5x5-upgradeable-mini-pc-platform-with-lga-socket/#comments Sat, 22 Aug 2015 13:02:07 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=264564 Intel Corp.’s NUC [next unit of computing] small form-factor PCs offer decent performance and are rather small. Unfortunately, such systems come with limited choice of processors and cannot be upgraded. By contrast, mini-ITX systems support all types of CPUs, can be upgraded, but are considerably larger. In a bid to offer small dimensions and a …

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Intel Corp.’s NUC [next unit of computing] small form-factor PCs offer decent performance and are rather small. Unfortunately, such systems come with limited choice of processors and cannot be upgraded. By contrast, mini-ITX systems support all types of CPUs, can be upgraded, but are considerably larger. In a bid to offer small dimensions and a choice of CPUs, Intel proposes a new mini PC form-factor: 5×5.

Intel’s 5×5 is an all new form-factor for upgradable personal computers that has around 0.85 liters volume and around 39mm height. The core component of the 5×5 platform is a new mainboard with 140mm*147mm (5.5”×5.8”) dimensions, around 30 per cent smaller than mini-ITX, but considerably larger compared to motherboards inside NUCs. The mainboard has an LGA socket, two SO-DIMM slots, an M.2 connector for solid-state drives, a port to plug Wi-Fi/Bluetooth card, a SATA port, two USB 3.0 connectors, two HDMI outputs, Gigabit Ethernet and so on.

intel_5x5

According to Intel, 5×5 mainboards will support all processors with 35W and 65W thermal design power, which gives a broad choice of components to system integrators or end-users. Unfortunately, the Intel 5×5 platform does not support any PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards, unlike mini-ITX, which will prevent gamers from adopting such systems.

The newly-announced Intel 5×5 form-factor will require new PC chassis and new CPU coolers. However, it will provide PC makers and DIY end-users with a lot of flexibility in terms of possible configurations, something that NUC simply does not offer. It is unlikely that a lot of people upgrade SFF PCs in general, but an ability to install different processors is an important feature.

intel_5x5_1

At the Intel Developer Forum 2015 the chip designer demonstrated a prototype of a 5×5 mainboard equipped with an LGA1150 socket for “Haswell” and “Broadwell” processors. Commercial systems will likely feature LGA1151 sockets for higher-performing “Skylake” central processing units. Moreover, Intel might consider adding its “Alpine Ridge” controller to the design in order to enable USB 3.1 type-C and Thunderbolt connectivity. Such port could allow addition of ultra-fast solid-state drives and external graphics solutions, something that gamers and creative professionals will appreciate.

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Intel 5×5 prototype mainboard. Image by hardware.hdblog.it.

Intel does not reveal when the first 5×5 systems are set to hit the market, but it is possible that the first PCs adopting the new form-factor will become available already next year if Intel starts to produce 5×5 mainboards itself or persuades makers of motherboards to make such products.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Intel’s 5×5 form-factor sits between mini-ITX and NUC. It is not as flexible as the former and is not as small as the latter. The only tangible benefit that the 5×5 has over NUCs is a wide choice of microprocessors, which is good, but is it enough for the industry to embrace a new standard? The new 5×5 platform makes a great sense from Intel's business point of view. The amount of Intel's content per one 5×5 box can be extremely high (an expensive LGA CPU with high-performance integrated graphics, an SSD, network and USB controllers [should Intel decide to integrate “Alpine Ridge”], etc.). Furthermore, inability to upgrade graphics sub-system will force consumers who demand better performance in video games to switch the entire box instead of just graphics adapter, which shrinks upgrade cycles. But will the industry bite? Only time will tell.

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Intel Core i7-6700K ‘Skylake’ hits nearly 7GHz https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-core-i7-6700k-skylake-hits-nearly-7ghz/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-core-i7-6700k-skylake-hits-nearly-7ghz/#comments Tue, 18 Aug 2015 13:04:07 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=263870 A professional overclocker has set a new record for Intel Core i7-6700K microprocessor frequency. This time the new code-named “Skylake” processor hit nearly 7GHz, which is among the highest frequencies ever achieved by any Intel Core i-series microprocessors. Chi-Kui Lam, a professional overclocker from Hong Kong-based HKEPC web-site, has managed to overclock an engineering sample …

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A professional overclocker has set a new record for Intel Core i7-6700K microprocessor frequency. This time the new code-named “Skylake” processor hit nearly 7GHz, which is among the highest frequencies ever achieved by any Intel Core i-series microprocessors.

Chi-Kui Lam, a professional overclocker from Hong Kong-based HKEPC web-site, has managed to overclock an engineering sample of the Intel Core i7-6700K “Skylake-S” microprocessor to 6998.88MHz, or by whopping 74.97 per cent compared to its stock frequency. To hit nearly 7GHz, the overclocker had to disable three cores out of four and the Hyper-Threading technology. Voltage of the processor was increased from 1.2V to 1.888V.

overclock_record_mainboard_asrock_ln2_z170_skylake

To set the record, Chi-Kui Lam used a testbed featuring Asrock Z170 OC Formula mainboard, a G.Skill Ripjaws 4 DDR4 memory module as well as a 1300W power supply unit. The processor was cooled-down using liquid nitrogen (LN2).

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The Asrock Z170 OC Formula is a premium platform for overclockers designed by Asrock and Nick Shih. The motherboard features 17-phase voltage regulator module for microprocessor that is based on high-end solid-state chokes and capacitors. The motherboard has sophisticated capabilities for overclocking and expansion. The platform sports four PCI Express 16 slots for graphics cards or solid-state drives, three high-performance M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x4) connectors for SSDs, two SATA Express connectors, USB 3.1 and so on.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: 7GHz clock-rate is clearly achievable by Intel Core i7-6700K “Skylake” processor. What remains to be seen is whether retail versions of chips will actually manage to hit 5GHz clock-rates with commercially available cooling systems and all four cores active. Extreme overclocking shows that the chips do have potential, but the value of a single-core CPU nowadays is negligible…

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Intel rolls-out its most advanced air cooler to date: TS15A for LGA1151 processors https://www.kitguru.net/components/cooling/anton-shilov/intel-rolls-out-its-most-advanced-air-cooler-to-date-ts15a-for-lga1151-processors/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cooling/anton-shilov/intel-rolls-out-its-most-advanced-air-cooler-to-date-ts15a-for-lga1151-processors/#comments Sat, 15 Aug 2015 11:49:04 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=263638 Intel Corp. has decided not to bundle a cooler with its latest Core i7-6700K and Core i5-6600K microprocessors with unlocked multiplier for enthusiasts, but this does not mean that the company decided to quit producing cooling system for its high-end CPUs. In fact, Intel’s new TS15A thermal solution for LGA1151 microprocessors is the most powerful …

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Intel Corp. has decided not to bundle a cooler with its latest Core i7-6700K and Core i5-6600K microprocessors with unlocked multiplier for enthusiasts, but this does not mean that the company decided to quit producing cooling system for its high-end CPUs. In fact, Intel’s new TS15A thermal solution for LGA1151 microprocessors is the most powerful air cooler that Intel has ever made.

A store in Akihabara district in Tokyo, Japan, the world-famous shopping district for video games and computer goods, this week started to sell Intel’s new TS15A (BXTS15A) cooling solution designed specifically for the company’s latest “Skylake” processors in LGA1151 packaging. The cooler costs ¥5162 (£26.5, $41.5, €37.4), reports Akiba PC Hotline. The price is not a bargain for Japan. For ¥5000 – ¥5500 it is possible to get Scythe Mugen Max, Raijintek Ereboss, Zalman Performa CNPS11X or Cryorig H7 in Tokyo.

intel_ts15a_cooler

Intel does not release too many details about its TS15A cooler, except the fact that it uses 4-pin pulse width modulation fan speed control, has three year-limited warranty and is designed for its newest microprocessors in LGA1151 form-factor.

intel_ts15a_cooler_2

The Intel TS15A cooing system is larger than any cooler that Intel has ever produced for its desktop microprocessors. In fact, the TS15A is taller than the TS13A, which Intel supplies with some of its Core i7 Extreme processors for high-end desktops. The thermal solution features a large copper base along with the company’s copper “heat-column” with a heat-pipe inside, which has been used by Intel for some time. For the first time, Intel uses assembled high-density fin design for the heatsink of its coolers to maximize heat dissipation area. Previously the company utilized solid-state heatsinks with curved and bifurcated fins, but it appears that it is now adopting the same construction as leading makers of thermal solutions.

intel_ts15a_cooler_3

Without any doubts, the Intel TS15A looks to be a big step in the right direction for Intel. Based on the design of the product, it should be more advanced than its predecessors. Unfortunately, its relatively small dimensions as well as small fan indicate that it may be less efficient and more noisy than products from cooler makers. The initial price of the TS15A cooling solution is also very high. Nonetheless, the product will look very good if supplied with Intel’s desktop processors for free.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While the TS15A does not look like an enthusiast choice, if Intel bundles it with its mainstream or low-power “Skylake” processors, then many may consider it good enough even for compact systems. As a result, many will not buy coolers from well-known suppliers, which will hurt their business.

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Intel Core i7-6700K hits 6.8GHz with all cores active on MSI ‘Titanium’ platform https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-core-i7-6700k-hits-6-8ghz-with-all-cores-active-on-msi-titanium-platform/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/intel-core-i7-6700k-hits-6-8ghz-with-all-cores-active-on-msi-titanium-platform/#comments Fri, 07 Aug 2015 20:50:44 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=262838 A professional overclocker this week managed to push Intel Corp.’s latest Core i7-6700K “Skylake-S” microprocessor to whopping 6.80GHz without disabling any cores or Hyper-Threading technology. The record was set on MicroStar International’s flagship MSI Z170A XPower Gaming Titanium mainboard. Toppc, a professional overclocker from Taiwan, this week overclocked an engineering sample of the Intel Core …

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A professional overclocker this week managed to push Intel Corp.’s latest Core i7-6700K “Skylake-S” microprocessor to whopping 6.80GHz without disabling any cores or Hyper-Threading technology. The record was set on MicroStar International’s flagship MSI Z170A XPower Gaming Titanium mainboard.

Toppc, a professional overclocker from Taiwan, this week overclocked an engineering sample of the Intel Core i7-6700K “Skylake-S” microprocessor to whopping 6801.63MHz, or by around 70 per cent compared to its stock clock-rate. All four cores and Hyper-Threading technology were enabled, but DDR4 memory operated at 4268MHz in single-channel mode. At present, 6.8GHz frequency is the highest clock-rate ever achieved by any “Skylake-S” central processing unit.

intel_core_i7_record

To push the processor to an incredibly high frequency, Toppc had to increase core voltage from around 1.2V to astonishing 2.024V. The chip was cooled-down using liquid nitrogen (LN2). 2V is extremely high voltage for a processor made using 14nm process technology.

While 6.8GHz is not the highest clock-rate ever achieved by Intel’s recent microprocessors, it is one of the highest frequencies set by a modern Intel Core i7 chip with four cores and Hyper-Threading activated. Typically, extreme frequencies are hit with only one or two cores turned on. Only Intel Core i7-3770K chips overclocked to 6912MHz and 6810MHz with all engines and HT operational are ahead of the current record.

image_id_1460726

The MSI Z170A XPower Gaming Titanium mainboard is Microstar’s top-of-the-range Intel Z170 platform for Intel “Skylake” processors. The motherboard was designed to deliver exceptional overclocking capabilities with its 16-phase all-digital voltage regulator module (VRM) that uses all-new inductors, which MSI calls “titanium chokes”, that promise to withstand higher temperatures and endure a longer lifecycle. In addition, the mainboard is covered with a special silver substance, which makes it look very stylish and may even make it a little more durable.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Without any doubts, 6.80GHz on Intel Core i7-6800K with four cores and Hyper-Threading is a great achievement. However, 2.024V core voltage will most probably kill or seriously damage the chip over time. All-in-all, it looks like more or less “safe” overclocked frequency for Core i7-6700K “Skylake” will remain in the range between 4.7GHz – 4.8GHz, depending on how lucky the owner is.

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MSI overclocks DDR4 memory to 4605MHz on latest platform https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-overclocks-ddr4-memory-to-4605mhz-on-latest-platform/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/motherboard/anton-shilov/msi-overclocks-ddr4-memory-to-4605mhz-on-latest-platform/#comments Wed, 05 Aug 2015 16:34:44 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=262502 MicroStar International on Wednesday said that an overclocker had managed to set a new clock-speed record for DDR4 memory using the company’s flagship MSI Z170A XPower Gaming Titanium mainboard. The achievement underlines that both the new motherboard and Intel Corp.’s new “Skylake” microprocessors are excellent overclockers when it comes to DRAM. Toppc, a well-known overclocker …

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MicroStar International on Wednesday said that an overclocker had managed to set a new clock-speed record for DDR4 memory using the company’s flagship MSI Z170A XPower Gaming Titanium mainboard. The achievement underlines that both the new motherboard and Intel Corp.’s new “Skylake” microprocessors are excellent overclockers when it comes to DRAM.

Toppc, a well-known overclocker who works with MSI, managed to push clock-rate of two Adata XPG 4GB PC4-17100 (2133MHz) memory modules in dual-channel mode to whopping 4605.8MHz on an MSI Z170A XPower Gaming Titanium platform and an engineering sample of Intel Core i7-6700K processor. To make the system run more or less stably, the overclocker disabled two x86 cores as well as the Hyper-Threading technology and downclocked the CPU to 891.41MHz. The microprocessor voltage was increased to 1.416V and the chip was most likely cooled-down using liquid nitrogen.

msi_titanium_z170

According to MSI, the Z170A XPower Gaming Titanium motherboard features a special DDR4 Boost technology that uses fully isolated circuitry to ensure “memory signals stay pure for maximum performance and stability.”

While it is evident that to overclock memory modules to 4.6GHz it was necessary to downclock the processor to 891MHz, which means that the system became unusable, it is still noteworthy that the chip could run two DDR4 DRAM in dual-channel mode. Typically, records are set in single-channel mode.

msi_ddr4_record

The MSI Z170A XPower Gaming Titanium is available at select retailers.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: 4.60GHz DDR4 dual-channel memory provides 73.6GB/s bandwidth, which is a massive overkill for a contemporary quad-core processor. Nonetheless, the new record shows that Intel’s new CPUs can handle ultra-fast memory, which is a good news for those, who want to have maximum possible performance.

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Prices of Intel “Skylake” processors for desktops revealed https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/prices-of-intel-skylake-processors-for-desktops-revealed/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/prices-of-intel-skylake-processors-for-desktops-revealed/#comments Tue, 04 Aug 2015 00:56:05 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=261932 A web-site has published the finalized prices of Intel Corp.’s “Skylake-S” processors for desktops. The new central processing units will cost about the same amount of money as existing chips, the world’s largest maker of microprocessors will not increase prices of its products. The flagship Intel Core i7-6700K (four cores with Hyper-Threading, 4.0GHz frequency, 4.20GHz …

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A web-site has published the finalized prices of Intel Corp.’s “Skylake-S” processors for desktops. The new central processing units will cost about the same amount of money as existing chips, the world’s largest maker of microprocessors will not increase prices of its products.

The flagship Intel Core i7-6700K (four cores with Hyper-Threading, 4.0GHz frequency, 4.20GHz maximum Turbo Boost clock-rate, 8MB last-level cache, a dual-channel DDR3L/DDR4 memory controller with 1600MHz or 2133MHz support, 95W TDP, Intel HD Graphics integrated graphics core as well as LGA1151 packaging) will cost $316 in 1000-units quantities. The slightly slower Core i5-6600K (four cores, 3.50GHz frequency, 3.90GHz maximum Turbo Boost frequency, 6MB last-level cache, dual-channel DDR3/DDR4 memory controller with 1600MHz or 2133MHz support, 95W TDP, Intel HD Graphics integrated graphics core, LGA1151 packaging) will be priced at $225, reports BenchLife.

intel_skylake_specs

Other quad-core Core i5 and Core i7 central processing units will cost from $170 to $282, depending on specifications and performance.

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Intel traditionally sells its processors at similar price-points as previous-generation offerings. With “Skylake”, the chipmaker will not make any exceptions: the chips will be priced at the same levels as “Haswell” products.

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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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Intel Core “Skylake-S” CPUs to sport advanced power supply circuitry https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/unlocked-intel-core-skylake-s-processors-to-sport-advanced-power-supply-circuitry/ https://www.kitguru.net/components/cpu/anton-shilov/unlocked-intel-core-skylake-s-processors-to-sport-advanced-power-supply-circuitry/#comments Fri, 31 Jul 2015 11:18:47 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=261624 Intel Corp.’s “Devil’s Canyon” processors have demonstrated that it is possible to significantly improve overclocking potential of a central processing unit without re-spinning it by revamping its power supply circuitry. As it appears, Intel’s new “Skylake-S” microprocessors with unlocked multiplier will also feature a very advanced power supply circuitry, which will improve their overclocking potential. …

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Intel Corp.’s “Devil’s Canyon” processors have demonstrated that it is possible to significantly improve overclocking potential of a central processing unit without re-spinning it by revamping its power supply circuitry. As it appears, Intel’s new “Skylake-S” microprocessors with unlocked multiplier will also feature a very advanced power supply circuitry, which will improve their overclocking potential.

Stable and clean power supply is a key to overclocking, which is why high-end mainboards and graphics cards have sophisticated multi-phase voltage regulator modules (VRM). Nonetheless, the final stage of power delivery to a microprocessor silicon is located on the CPU itself. High-quality power supply circuitry found on the bottom of microprocessors gives cleaner and higher volume power delivery to the die, which greatly improves stability and overclockability.

intel_4770vsskylake_01

Adding capacitors to the power supply circuit of the Core i7-4790K “Devil’s Canyon” improved its average overclocking potential compared to the Core i7-4770K “Haswell”, thus one would expect the chip giant to use something similar on other microprocessors. Based on pictures of Intel Core i7-6700K published by Expreview and PCOnline.com.cn, the unlocked “Skylake” comes with power circuit that looks to be even more sophisticated than the one found on the “Devil’s Canyon”.

intel_skylake_power_circuit

The amount of capacitors on the bottom of the Core i7-6700K “Skylake” is extremely high. Moreover, there are different types of capacitors with different capacitance, which means that power supply of Intel’s “Skylake” LGA1151 processors is completely different than power supply of Intel’s “Haswell” and “Devil’s Canyon” CPUs (which is logical, given the fact that the new chip lacks integrated voltage regulator). Moreover, the amount of elements in the circuit indicates that Intel wanted to ensure maximum overclocking potential of its new central processing unit. Still, keeping in mind that internal thermal interface of “Skylake” is similar to that of “Devil's Canyon”, there will be limitations in overclockability of the new chips.

intel_4770vsskylake_02

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

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KitGuru Says: Intel launches Core i7-6700K and Core i5-6600K “Skylake” processors next week. Very soon, overclocking potential of the new CPUs will be revealed by various reviewers.

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