Find out what AMD Smart Access Memory is all about, and how to turn it on for a FREE BOOST in performance!
Smart Access Memory : PCIe Resizable BAR for AMD!
Smart Access Memory is AMD’s marketing term for their implementation of the PCI Express Resizable BAR (Base Address Registers) capability.
What does that mean exactly?
CPUs are traditionally limited to a 256 MB I/O memory address region for the GPU frame buffer. This of it as an “data dump” for stuff like textures, shaders and geometry.
Since this “data dump” is limited to 256 MB, the CPU can only send texture, shader and geometry data as and when the GPU requires them.
This introduces some latency – delay from when the GPU requires the data, and the CPU send them.
Turning on Resizable BAR or Smart Access Memory greatly expands the size of that data dump, letting the CPU directly access the GPU’s entire frame buffer memory.
Instead of transferring data when requested by the GPU, the CPU processes and stores the data directly in the graphics memory.
Graphics assets can be transferred to graphics memory in full, instead of in pieces. In addition, multiple transfers can occur simultaneously, instead of being queued up.
While this AMD graphic above suggests that Smart Access Memory will widen the memory path (and thus memory bandwidth) between the CPU and GPU, that is not true.
Smart Access Memory / Resizable BAR will not increase memory bandwidth.
What it does is let the CPU directly access the entire GPU frame buffer memory, instead of using the usual 256 MB “dump”. That reduces latency because the graphics assets are now accessible by the GPU at all times.
AMD Smart Access Memory : Performance Gains
According to AMD, enabling Smart Access Memory will give you a small but free boost of 5% to 11% in gaming performance.
You can expect up to 16% better performance in some games, but no effect in certain games. But overall, you get a free boost in performance. There is simply no reason not to enable Smart Access Memory.
1080p Resolution (1920 x 1080)
1440p Resolution (2560 x 1440)
2160p Resolution (3840 x 2160)
AMD Smart Access Memory : Requirements
Since Smart Access Memory is just an AMD implementation of PCI Express Resizable BAR. Therefore, it can be be implemented for all PCI Express 3.0 and PCI Express 4.0 graphics cards and motherboards.
If you have all of those supported components above, and updated your motherboard BIOS, you need to manually enable Smart Access Memory.
Now, the method will vary from motherboard to motherboard, and it probably won’t even be called Smart Access Memory.
Instead, look for variations of Above 4G Decoding, or Resizing BAR, or Resizable BAR, or Re-Size BAR Support.
AMD Generic Method
AMD has provided these generic steps to enable Smart Access Memory :
Enter the System BIOS by press <DEL> or <F12> during the system startup.
Navigate to the Advanced Settings or Advanced menu.
Enable “Above 4G Decoding” and “Re-Size BAR Support“.
Save the changes and restart the computer.
Step-by-Step Method For ASUS Crosshair VIII Hero
In our guide, we are using the ASUS CROSSHAIR VIII Hero (AMD X570) motherboard, as an example :
First you will need to turn off CSM (Compatibility Support Module), or make sure it’s disabled.Go to the Boot menu and look for a CSM / Compatibility Support Module option.
Set CSM (Compatibility Support Module) to Disabled.
Go to the Advanced menu and look for the PCI Subsystem. In other motherboards, look for PCIe / PCI Express configuration options.
Enable Above 4G Decoding.
This will give you access to the Re-Size BAR Support option. Set it to Auto.
Now go to the Exit menu, and select Save Changes & Reset.
It will ask you to confirm the changes. Just verify both, and click OK.
CSM is disabled by default for the ASUS, ASRock and MSI motherboards. However, it is enabled by default in the GIGABYTE AORUS X570 Master.
If you installed Windows without first turning CSM off, it will be configured as non-UEFI. It will NOT boot if you enable Resizable BAR Support (Smart Access Memory).
You will need to reinstall Windows with CSM support disabled.
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The AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT launched with a TGP of 150 watts, a 1375 MHz game clock, a 1560 MHz boost clock and 12 Gbps GDDR6 memory.
But less than a week before it was made available for sale, AMD gave it a big boost in these aspects :
Up to 20.7% higher game clock
Up to 12% higher boost clock
Up to 16.7% higher memory clock
Up to 10W higher TGP
All that overclocking makes the Radeon RX 5600 XT quite a different beast from what was initially announced, and better positions it against the discounted NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 cards.
But please note that AMD is leaving it up to their AIB partners to determine the final clock speeds, so your card may not see such high boosts.
AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT BIOS Updates : Where To Get Them?
To enjoy the free Radeon RX 5600 XT power-up, you will need to download and install the new BIOS updates from your card manufacturer. But you need to make sure you are downloading the right one.
Note : All links and information were sourced from the respective card manufacturers. Please check with them if you face any issues. We can offer no guarantee regarding their accuracy or reliability.
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Unlike the Radeon RX 5700 and RX 5700 XT cards, the new AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT does not have a reference design – it is available only as custom-designed cards from AMD’s partners.
Here is a quick primer on the first slew of Radeon RX 5500 XT cards from ASRock, ASUS, GIGABYTE, MSI, PowerColor, Sapphire and XFX!
AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT : The First Cards
If you want to skip ahead to the first twenty two RX 5500 XT cards, click on these links.
The AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT is basically the desktop version of the Radeon RX 5500M, using the same GPU with 6.4 billion transistors fabricated on the 7 nm process technology.
This Navi GPU has 22 Compute Units with 1408 stream processors and a 128-bit memory interface. The only difference is the Radeon RX 5500 XT has higher clock speeds and TDP, with up to 8 GB of GDDR6 memory.
The AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT designed to deliver 1080p gaming at 60+ fps for AAA titles, and 90+ fps for esport games.
To reduce costs, AMD opted to use a PCI Express 4.0 x8 interface, instead of the PCIe 4.0 x16 interface. But if paired with a PCIe 4.0 chipset, it will deliver the same bandwidth as PCIe 3.0 x16.
In this table, we compare its reference specifications against its more powerful brethren – the RX 5700 and RX 5700 XT.
Again, please note that the RX 5500 XT is only available from AMD partners as custom cards, and could have different specifications.
Specifications
Radeon RX
5700 XT
Radeon RX
5700
Radeon RX
5500 XT
Transistors
10.3 billion
10.3 billion
6.4 billion
Fab Process
7 nm
7 nm
7 nm
Die Size
251 mm²
251 mm²
158 mm²
Total Graphics Power
225 W
185 W
130 W
Stream Processors
2560
2340
1408
Base Clock
1605 MHz
1465 MHz
1607 MHz
Game Clock
1755 MHz
1625 MHz
1717 MHz
Boost Clock
1905 MHz
1725 MHz
1845 MHz
TMUs
160
144
88
Max. Texture Rate
304.8 GT/s
248.4 GT/s
162.4 GT/s
ROPs
64
64
32
Max. Pixel Rate
121.9 GP/s
110.4 GP/s
59.0 GP/s
Memory Size
8 GB
8 GB
4 GB / 8 GB
Memory Type
GDDR6
GDDR6
GDDR6
Bus Width
256-bit
256-bit
128-bit
Bandwidth
448 GB/s
448 GB/s
224 GB/s
PCIe Interface
PCIe 4.0 x16
PCIe 4.0 x16
PCIe 4.0 x8
ASRock RX 5500 XT Challenger D 4G OC
This is an overclocked 4 GB variant with a dual fan cooler, a 78 MHz higher base clock and a 20 MHz higher game clock :
Base Clock : 1685 MHz
Game Clock : 1737 MHz
Boost Clock : 1845 MHz
GDDR6 Memory Clock : 1750 MHz (14 Gbps)
Display Ports : 3 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0b
Polychrome SYNC
Dual Fan Design + Stylish Metal Backplate
0dB Silent Cooling
ASRock Tweak
ASRock RX 5500 XT Phantom Gaming D 8G OC
This is the 8 GB version of the Challenger card above, and comes with the same dual fan cooler, a 78 MHz higher base clock and a 20 MHz higher game clock :
Base Clock : 1685 MHz
Game Clock : 1737 MHz
Boost Clock : 1845 MHz
GDDR6 Memory Clock : 1750 MHz (14 Gbps)
Display Ports : 3 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0b
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ASUS ROG Strix Radeon RX 5500 XT
This is an overclocked 8 GB variant with a dual-fan cooler, and 20 MHz higher game and boost clocks.
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MSI Radeon RX 5500 XT Mech 4G
This is a stock 4 GB variant, with a dual-fan cooler, and reference clock speeds
TORX Fan 3.0 with Dispersion Fan Blades
RGB Mystic Light + Afterburner OC Utility
Boost Clock : up to 1845 MHz
Game Clock : 1717 MHz
Base Clock : 1607 MHz
GDDR6 Memory Clock : 1750 MHz (14 Gbps)
Display Ports : 3 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0b
MSI Radeon RX 5500 XT Mech 8G
This is a stock 8 GB variant, with a dual-fan cooler, and reference clock speeds
TORX Fan 3.0 with Dispersion Fan Blades
RGB Mystic Light + Afterburner OC Utility
Boost Clock : up to 1845 MHz
Game Clock : 1717 MHz
Base Clock : 1607 MHz
GDDR6 Memory Clock : 1750 MHz (14 Gbps)
Display Ports : 3 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0b
MSI Radeon RX 5500 XT Mech 4G OC
This is an overclocked 4 GB variant, with a dual-fan cooler, 40 MHz higher base clock and 16 MHz higher game clock.
TORX Fan 3.0 with Dispersion Fan Blades
RGB Mystic Light + Afterburner OC Utility
Boost Clock : up to 1845 MHz
Game Clock : 1733 MHz (Reference card is 1717 MHz)
Base Clock : 1647 MHz (Reference card is 1607 MHz)
GDDR6 Memory Clock : 1750 MHz (14 Gbps)
Display Ports : 3 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0b
MSI Radeon RX 5500 XT Mech 8G OC
This is an overclocked 8 GB variant, with a dual-fan cooler, 40 MHz higher base clock and 16 MHz higher game clock.
TORX Fan 3.0 with Dispersion Fan Blades
RGB Mystic Light + Afterburner OC Utility
Boost Clock : up to 1845 MHz
Game Clock : 1733 MHz (Reference card is 1717 MHz)
Base Clock : 1647 MHz (Reference card is 1607 MHz)
GDDR6 Memory Clock : 1750 MHz (14 Gbps)
Display Ports : 3 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0b
Price + Availability (Accurate as of 16 December 2019)
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PowerColor Radeon RX 5500 XT
This is a stock 4 GB variant, with a single-fan cooler, and reference clock speeds
Boost Clock : up to 1845 MHz
Game Clock : 1717 MHz
Base Clock : 1607 MHz
GDDR6 Memory Clock : 1750 MHz (14 Gbps)
Display Ports : 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0b, 1 x SL DVI-D
PowerColor Red Dragon RX 5500 XT
This is an overclocked 8 GB variant, with a dual-fan cooler, a 78 MHz higher base clock and a 20 MHz higher game clock :
Boost Clock : up to 1845 MHz
Game Clock : 1737 MHz (Reference card is 1717 MHz)
Base Clock : 1685 MHz (Reference card is 1607 MHz)
GDDR6 Memory Clock : 1750 MHz (14 Gbps)
Display Ports : 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0b, 1 x SL DVI-D
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Due to overwhelming demand, it can be hard to get good Radeon RX 5700 or Radeon RX 5700 XT deals.
So we went out and found you the cheapest Radeon RX 5700 / RX 5700 XT deals in Malaysia!
AMD Radeon RX 5700 Series Primer
The AMD Radeon RX 5700 series of graphics cards is built around the new AMD Navi GPU that uses the new RDNA architecture and fabricated on the 7 nm process technology.
Its redesigned Compute Units deliver 1.25X higher performance per clock, and up to 1.5X better performance per watt.
The AMD Radeon RX 5700 has 2304 stream processors, with 144 TMUs and 64 ROPs, delivering a peak output of 248 GT/s and 110 GP/s.
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AMD just showed off the Ryzen R1000 APUs, the latest addition to the Ryzen Embedded family. This is the processor that will power by upcoming Atari VCS gaming console!
Here is a quick primer on the new AMD Ryzen R1000 APU!
The AMD Ryzen R1000 APU
Known officially as the AMD Ryzen Embedded R1000, this APU brings multi-threaded performance for the first time to the low-power R-series of processors.
AMD claims it will offer 3X performance improvement per watt over the last generation, and 4X CPU and graphics performance per dollar advantage over its competition!
Its low power and ability to run fanless makes it suitable for applications like digital displays, high-performance edge computing, networking and thin clients… and yes, gaming consoles!
The AMD Ryzen R1000 Will Power The Atari VCS!
AMD quoted a number of Ryzen R1000 customers – Advantech, ASRock Industrial, IBASE, Netronome, Quixant and STRATACACHE. But the biggest name is none other than Atari.
Its ability to deliver multi-threaded processing with an integrated GPU in a fanless package makes it ideal to power the upcoming Atari VCS gaming console.
AMD Ryzen R1000 Availability
The AMD Ryzen R1000 will be available Q2 2019 to ODMs and OEMs worldwide. It supports the Mentor Embedded Linux Flex OS which is already available in the market.
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ASRock just revealed their Phantom Gaming X RX590 graphics card – their latest addition to the Phantom Gaming series, and the last of the Polaris cards. Get the full details on their new Phantom Gaming X Radeon RX 590 8G OC graphics card!
The ASRock Phantom Gaming X RX590 Graphics Card Revealed!
ASRock is introducing their new Phantom Gaming X RX590 graphics card, which is based on the newly-announced AMD Radeon RX 590 GPU with 8GB of 256-bit GDDR5 memory to provide better gaming performance with solid reliability.
The ASRock Phantom Gaming X RX590 card provides two DisplayPort 1.4 connectors, two HDMI 2.0b outputs, a Dual-link DVI-D connector and supports up to 5 monitors. It also sports the Phantom Gaming visual styling; unifying the design with the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming motherboards.
“ASRock is very proud to introduce the Phantom Gaming X Radeon RX590 8G OC graphics card.” said Mr. Chris Lee, ASRock’s Global Marketing Associate Vice President. “It is undoubtedly designed and built for gamers, and we strongly believe that it can provide an outstanding gaming experience.”
ASRock Phantom Gaming X RX590 Key Features
Advanced features for unbeatable performance!
As an OC Certified Edition graphics card, the ASRock Phantom Gaming X RX590 has a 1560 MHz GPU clock, which is higher than AMD’s reference 1545 MHz GPU clock to provide a great gaming performance.
ASRock also applied the Phantom Gaming visual elements everywhere on the card to provide unified styling with ASRock’s Z390 Phantom Gaming motherboards.
The Phantom Gaming X RX590 graphics card is also equipped with several unique features, such as:
3-Phase Motor Fan that provides a 23% higher maximum airflow for better thermal efficiency
Double Ball Bearings improve lifespan by 30% to 40% compared to the traditional fan design.
Stylish Metal Backplate makes your graphics card fancy, solid, and cool.
0dB Silent Cooling technology makes fan stop completely under light workloads for no noise.
Phantom Gaming Tweak gives users instant performance tweaking and smart fan speed control to combine ease-of-use with high performance and flexibility for power users.
Forged for gamers in Mind!
The Phantom Gaming X RX590 graphics card offers gamers a full range of the specifications and features they need: superior performance, attractive visual impact, and solid, reliable construction, plus the same visual design and unified outlook as the entire ASRock Phantom Gaming series of products. This is undoubtedly a high-performance graphics card that is forged for gamers.
ASRock Phantom Gaming X RX590 Promotion
ASRock is currently running a Radeon graphics cards promotion with AMD.
From November 15th 2018 to February 9th 2019, customers who buy the ASRock Phantom Gaming X RX590 graphics cards will be qualified to get three bundled games for free (worth US$180 in total): Tom Clancy’s The Division 2, Resident Evil 2, and Devil May Cry 5.
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AMD officially launched their B450 chipset on 31 July 2018. We had earlier shared with you our previews of the GIGABYTE B450 AORUS PRO WIFI motherboard, as well as the MSI B450 Tomahawk and B450A-Pro motherboards. Today, we will share with you details of the first AMD B450 motherboards to hit the market!
The Official AMD B450 Tech Briefing
For a primer on the AMD B450 chipset, here is the official AMD B450 tech briefing, conducted by Don Woligroski, AMD Business Development and Desktop Processor Marketing.
And here is a diagram showing what features are provided by the AMD B450 chipset, and what are provided by the AMD Ryzen processor itself.
Although these motherboards have all been announced, not all are available for purchase yet. Here are some models that are currently for sale, with their prices :
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ASRock Fatal1ty B450 Gaming K4
The ASRock Fatal1ty B450 Gaming K4 motherboard is an ATX motherboard that supports DDR4-3200, and comes with two PCIe x16 slots, two Ultra M.2 sockets, and six SATA ports.
Here are the ASRock Fatal1ty B450 Gaming K4‘s key features :
2 USB 3.1 Gen2 (Rear Type-A+C) with 6 USB 3.1 Gen1 (2 Front, 4 Rear)
Realtek Gigabit LAN
ASRock Fatal1ty B450 Gaming-ITX/ac
The ASRock Fatal1ty B450 Gaming-ITX/ac motherboard is a mini-ITX motherboard that supports DDR4-3466, and comes with one PCIe x16 slot, one Ultra M.2 socket, and four SATA ports.
Here are the ASRock Fatal1ty B450 Gaming-ITX/ac‘s key features :
Supports DDR4 3466+ (OC)
1 PCIe 3.0 x16
Graphics Output: DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0
7.1 channel HD Audio (Realtek ALC1220 Audio Codec) with Creative Sound Blaster Cinema 5
4 SATA3, 1 Ultra M.2 (PCIe Gen3 x4 & SATA3)
2 USB 3.1 Gen2 (Rear Type-A+C)
4 USB 3.1 Gen1 (2 Front, 2 Rear)
Intel Gigabit LAN with Intel 802.11ac WiFi + BT 4.2
ASRock B450 Pro4
The ASRock B450 Pro4 motherboard is an ATX motherboard that supports DDR4-3200, and comes with two PCIe x16 slots, two M.2 sockets, and six SATA ports.
2 USB 3.1 Gen2 (Rear Type A+C) with 6 USB 3.1 (2 Front, 4 Rear)
Realtek Gigabit LAN
ASRock B450M Pro4
The ASRock B450M Pro4 is the micro-ATX version of the ASRock B450 Pro4 motherboard. It supports DDR4-3200, and comes with two PCIe x16 slots, two M.2 sockets, and four SATA ports.
2 USB 3.1 Gen2 (Rear Type-A+C) with 6 USB 3.1 Gen1 (2 Front, 4 Rear)
Realtek Gigabit LAN
ASRock B450M HDV
The ASRock B450 HDV motherboard is a micro-ATX motherboard that supports DDR4-3200, and comes with one PCIe x16 slot, one M.2 socket, and four SATA ports.
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ASUS ROG STRIX B450-F Gaming
The ASUS ROG Strix B450-F Gaming is an ATX gaming motherboard with DDR4-3200 support, two M.2 sockets, three PCIe x16 slots and six SATA ports.
Here are the ASUS ROG Strix B450-F Gaming‘s key features :
Fast memory and storage : Dual-channel DDR4 3200 MHz (OC) and NVM Express RAID supported.
Aura Sync RGB : Synchronize LED lighting with a vast portfolio of compatible PC gear.
Gaming connectivity : Dual M.2 and USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A connectors.
Gaming networking : Intel Gigabit Ethernet, plus ASUS LANGuard and GameFirst technologies.
5-Way Optimization : Automated system-wide tuning, providing overclocking and cooling profiles that are tailor-made for your rig.
Gaming audio : SupremeFX S1220A teams with Sonic Studio III to create an aural landscape that draws you deeper into the action.
Gamer’s Guardian : Pre-mounted I/O shield, ASUS SafeSlot and premium components for maximum endurance.
Here are some purchase links and prices for the ASUS ROG Strix B450-F Gaming :
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GIGABYTE B450 AORUS PRO WIFI
We showcased the GIGABYTE B450 AORUS PRO WIFI at Computex 2018. It boasts a hybrid digital PWM, with built-in dual-band Intel 802.11ac WiFi and Gigabit LAN capability, as well as dual M.2 sockets.
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MSI B450 Gaming Pro Carbon AC
The MSI B450 Gaming Pro Carbon AC is an ATX motherboard with built-in Intel 802.11ac WiFI capability. It supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz, and comes with two PCIe x16 slots, two M.2 sockets and 6 SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450 Gaming Pro Carbon AC‘s key features :
Supports DDR4-3466+(OC) Memory
Mystic Light and Mystic Light Sync : 16.8 million colors / 17 effects in one click. Synchronize RGB/RAINBOW strips and other RGB solutions for customization.
Lightning Fast Game experience : TURBO M.2 with M.2 Shield, StoreMI, AMD Turbo USB 3.1 GEN2
Audio Boost 4 with Nahimic : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive gaming experience
Set Core Power Free : Core Boost, 8+4 pin CPU power connector, Extended Heatsink Design
Core Boost : With premium layout and digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
DDR4 Boost : Give your DDR4 memory a performance boost with A-XMP
GAMING LAN and Wireless support, powered by Intel: The best online gaming experience with lowest latency and bandwidth management.
BIOS FLASHBACK+ : Simply use a USB key to flash any BIOS within seconds, without installing a CPU, memory or graphics card.
In-Game Weapons : Game Boost, GAMING Hotkey, X-Boost
MSI B450 Gaming Plus
The MSI B450 Gaming Plus is an ATX motherboard that supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz. It comes with two PCIe x16 slots, one M.2 socket and 6 SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450 Gaming Plus‘ key features :
Supports DDR4-3466+(OC) Memory
Lightning Fast Game experience : TURBO M.2, StoreMI, AMD Turbo USB 3.1 GEN2
Audio Boost with Nahimic : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive gaming experience
Core Boost : With premium layout and digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
DDR4 Boost : Give your DDR4 memory a performance boost with A-XMP
The MSI B450M Gaming Plus is the micro-ATX version of the MSI B450 Gaming Plus. It supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz, and comes with one PCIe x16 slot, one M.2 socket and four SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450M Gaming Plus‘s key features :
Supports DDR4-3466+(OC) Memory
Lightning Fast Game experience : TURBO M.2, StoreMI
Audio Boost with Nahimic : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive gaming experience
Core Boost : With premium layout and digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
DDR4 Boost : Give your DDR4 memory a performance boost with A-XMP
VR Ready : Automatically optimizes your system for VR usage, pushing for maximum performance.
BIOS FLASHBACK+ : Simply use a USB key to flash any BIOS within seconds, without installing a CPU, memory or graphics card.
In-Game Weapons : Game Boost, GAMING Hotkey, X-Boost
EZ Debug LED : Easiest way to troubleshoot
Here are some purchase links and prices for the MSI B450M Gaming Plus :
The MSI B450I Gaming Plus AC is a mini-ITX motherboard with built-in Intel 802.11ac WiFi capability. It supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz, and comes with one PCIe x16 slot, one M.2 socket and four SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450I Gaming Plus AC‘s key features :
Supports DDR4-3466+(OC) Memory
Lightning Fast Game experience : TURBO M.2, StoreMI
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive gaming experience
Core Boost : With premium layout and digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
DDR4 Boost : Give your DDR4 memory a performance boost with A-XMP
Intel Wireless support : Uses smart MU-MIMO technology, delivering AC speeds up to 433Mbps with lower CPU loading and better long-term usage.
VR Ready : Automatically optimizes your system for VR usage, pushing for maximum performance.
In-Game Weapons : Game Boost, GAMING Hotkey, X-Boost
EZ Debug LED : Easiest way to troubleshoot
Here are some purchase links and prices for the MSI B450I Gaming Plus AC :
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MSI B450 Tomahawk
The MSI B450 Tomahawk is an ATX motherboard that supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz. It comes with two PCIe x16 slots, one M.2 socket and 6 SATA ports.
The MSI B450 Mortar is a micro-ATX motherboard that supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz. It comes with two PCIe x16 slots, two M.2 sockets and four SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450M Mortar‘s key features :
Supports DDR4 Memory, up to 3466+(OC) MHz
Extended Heatsink Design : MSI extended PWM and enhanced circuit design ensures even high-end processors to run in full speed.
Lightning Fast Game experience : 1x TURBO M.2, AMD Turbo USB 3.1 GEN2, Store MI technology
Core Boost : With premium layout and fully digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
DDR4 Boost : Advanced technology to deliver pure data signals for the best gaming performance and stability.
Mystic Light and Mystic Light Sync : 16.8 million colors / 10 effects in one click. Synchronize RGB strips and other RGB solutions for customization.
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive audio experience
BIOS FLASHBACK+ : Simply use a USB key to flash any BIOS within seconds, without installing a CPU, memory or graphics card.
In-Game Weapons : Game Boost, GAMING Hotkey, X-Boost
EZ Debug LED : Easiest way to troubleshoot.
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MSI B450M Mortar Titanium
The MSI B450 Mortar Titanium is basically the white version of the B450 Mortar motherboard. It supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz, and comes with two PCIe x16 slots, two M.2 sockets and four SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450M Mortar Titanium‘s key features :
Supports DDR4 Memory, up to 3466+(OC) MHz
Extended Heatsink Design : MSI extended PWM and enhanced circuit design ensures even high-end processors to run in full speed.
Lightning Fast Game experience : 1x TURBO M.2, AMD Turbo USB 3.1 GEN2, Store MI technology
Core Boost : With premium layout and fully digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
DDR4 Boost : Advanced technology to deliver pure data signals for the best gaming performance and stability.
Mystic Light and Mystic Light Sync : 16.8 million colors / 10 effects in one click. Synchronize RGB strips and other RGB solutions for customization.
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive audio experience
BIOS FLASHBACK+ : Simply use a USB key to flash any BIOS within seconds, without installing a CPU, memory or graphics card.
In-Game Weapons : Game Boost, GAMING Hotkey, X-Boost
EZ Debug LED : Easiest way to troubleshoot.
MSI B450M Bazooka
The MSI B450M Bazooka is a micro-ATX motherboard that supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz. It comes with one PCIe x16 slots, one M.2 sockets and four SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450M Bazooka‘s key features :
Supports DDR4 Memory, up to 3466+(OC) MHz
Lightning Fast Game experience : 1x TURBO M.2, Store MI technology
Core Boost : With premium layout optimized power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
DDR4 Boost : Advanced technology to deliver pure data signals for the best gaming performance and stability.
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive audio experience
PCI-E Steel Armor : Protecting VGA cards against bending and EMI
X-Boost : Software that auto-detects and allows you to boost the performance of any storage, Optane or USB device
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MSI B450M Bazooka Plus
The MSI B450M Bazooka Plus is a micro-ATX motherboard that supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3333 MHz. It comes with one PCIe x16 slots, one M.2 sockets and four SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450M Bazooka Plus‘ key features :
Supports DDR4 Memory, up to 3333+(OC) MHz. Supports ECC UDIMM memory.
Lightning Fast Game experience : 1x TURBO M.2, Store MI technology
Extended Heatsink Design : MSI extended PWM and enhanced circuit design ensures even high-end processors to run in full speed.
Core Boost : With premium layout and fully digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
DDR4 Boost : Advanced technology to deliver pure data signals for the best gaming performance and stability.
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive audio experience.
Mystic Light and Mystic Light Sync : 16.8 million colors / 10 effects in one click. Synchronize RGB strips and other RGB solutions for customization.
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality for the most immersive audio experience
BIOS FLASHBACK+ : Simply use a USB key to flash any BIOS within seconds, without installing a CPU, memory or graphic cards
PCI-E Steel Armor : Protecting VGA cards against bending and EMI
VR Ready : Best virtual reality game experience without latency, reduces motion sickness
In-Game Weapons : Game Boost, GAMING Hotkey, X-Boost
EZ Debug LED : Easiest way to troubleshoot.
MSI B450-A Pro
The MSI B450A-Pro is an ATX motherboard that supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz. It comes with two PCIe x16 slots, one M.2 socket and six SATA ports.
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality.
DDR4 Boost : Fully isolated, shielded and optimized DDR4 PCB design to give your DDR4 memory a performance boost.
Turbo M.2 : Delivering Speeds Up to 32Gb/s.
EZ Debug LED : Easiest way to troubleshoot.
PCI-E Steel Armour : Protecting VGA cards against bending for better performance, stability and strength.
BIOS FLASHBACK+ : Simply use a USB key to flash any BIOS within seconds, without installing a CPU, memory or graphics card.
X-Boost : Software that auto-detects and allows you to boost the performance of any storage or USB device.
Core Boost : With premium layout and fully digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
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MSI B450M Pro-VDH
The MSI B450M Pro-VDH is a micro-ATX motherboard that supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz. It comes with one PCIe x16 slot, one M.2 socket and four SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450M Pro-VDH‘s key features :
Supports DDR4-3466+(OC) Memory
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality.
DDR4 Boost : Fully isolated, shielded and optimized DDR4 PCB design to give your DDR4 memory a performance boost.
Turbo M.2 : Delivering Speeds Up to 32Gb/s.
EZ Debug LED : Easiest way to troubleshoot.
PCI-E Steel Armor : Protecting VGA cards against bending for better performance, stability and strength.
X-Boost : Software that auto-detects and allows you to boost the performance of any storage or USB device.
Core Boost : With premium layout and fully digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
Here are some purchase links and prices for the MSI B450M Gaming Plus :
The MSI B450M Pro-M2 is a micro-ATX motherboard that supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 3466 MHz. It comes with one PCIe x16 slot, one M.2 socket and four SATA ports.
Here are the MSI B450M Pro-M2‘s key features :
Supports DDR4-3466+(OC) Memory
Audio Boost : Reward your ears with studio grade sound quality.
DDR4 Boost : Fully isolated, shielded and optimized DDR4 PCB design to give your DDR4 memory a performance boost.
Turbo M.2 : Delivering Speeds Up to 32Gb/s.
EZ Debug LED : Easiest way to troubleshoot.
PCI-E Steel Slot : Protecting VGA cards against bending for better performance, stability and strength.
X-Boost : Software that auto-detects and allows you to boost the performance of any storage or USB device.
Core Boost : With premium layout and fully digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
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Cooler Master just announced the MasterAir MA620P CPU cooler that pushes the performance of air cooling beyond AIO liquid cooling. Here are the full details!
The MasterAir MA620P CPU Cooler
The MasterAir MA620P (Price Check) is a supercharged Cooler Master cooler. It is a combination of two built heatsinks with CDC 2.0 technology and two MasterFan MF120R RGB (Price Check) fans that is able to transfer and dissipate heat at extremely efficient levels. The MasterFan MF120R RGB fans are also certified by ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI and ASRock with their motherboard RGB feature.
Supercharged Dual Heatsink Dual ML120R RGB fans
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The MasterAir MA620P (Price Check) supercharges your CPU cooling by combining two heatsinks each accompanied by two MasterFan MF120R RGB to ensure enough air pressure brings out the heat quickly enough to continually remove heat from the CPU. An optional 3rd fan is possible to take you to the next level.
RGB Certified for ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI and ASRock
The MasterAir MA620P (Price Check) comes with two MasterFan MF120R RGB and a RGB controller. You have the option of controlling with a click of a few buttons to set the color, intensity level and effects or use the software from the motherboard manufacturer. Because Cooler Master RGB fans are fully compatible with ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI and ASRock, you are guaranteed that full system sync of RGB is possible.
MasterAir MA620P Price + Availability
The MasterAir MA620P is available with immediate effect. It is priced at RM 189 / ~US$ 47 only. In the United States, you can purchase it at :
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AMD just sent us the AMD Ryzen Gen 2 Reviewer’s Kit. This time, it’s two heavy boxes, instead of just one. Let’s take a look and see what they sent us, and what you should look forward to!
The AMD Ryzen Gen 2 Reviewer’s Kit
Earlier AMD Ryzen Reviewer’s Kits came in the form of a large black box, or a fancy wooden box. Each Reviewer’s Kit contains a complete set of CPU + motherboard + memory kit.
This time, they sent us a gray box, as well as the large black box. Let’s take a look inside the AMD Ryzen Gen 2 Reviewer’s Kit!
.
The AMD Ryzen Gen 2 Reviewer’s Kit contains the following components :
What AMD ships in these kits is important, because it shows us the motherboard and memory kit that AMD had earlier tested and confirmed to work best out of the box with their latest Ryzen processors.
AMD assured us that X470 motherboards that ship on launch date have been thoroughly tested by their partners for compatibility with the 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen processors.
But if you are an early adopter, and want a worry-free experience, it may be helpful to know what AMD has personally tested out and certified for use by reviewers.
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TAIPEI, Taiwan, March 28, 2018 – ASRock just announced that they’re moving into the graphics card market with the Phantom Gaming range – a strong line up of AMD Radeon RX500 series cards, including the Phantom Gaming X Radeon RX580 8G, Radeon RX570 8G, the Phantom Gaming Radeon RX560 4G/2G and Radeon RX550 4G/2G.
“ASRock finally expand into the graphics card field,” said Mr. LL Shiu, ASRock Chief Executive Officer. “We are happy and proud to team up with AMD, our strong and reliable partner, and of course we look forward to bringing out more interesting and competitive products in future.”
The ASRock Phantom Gaming Series
ASRock Phantom Gaming series promises elegant design, flexibility for power users combined with user friendly control, and of course, outstanding performance. ASRock never compromises on product quality and performance, so these new products are packed with amazing features as well as the best components to ensure they meet everyone’s expectations.
Graphics cards from this range offer features such as dual ball-bearing fans and are built around a sophisticated extra-large copper-base aluminum alloy composite heat pipe-equipped heatsink design for optimal cooling. Together, these technologies provide enhanced system performance, higher frame rates and long-term product reliability.
These new cards will be based on the Radeon RX 500 series, which features a powerful combination of exceptional game performance, high clock speeds, and AMD’s refined 2nd generation “Polaris” architecture. The Radeon RX 500 series was designed specifically for system upgrades, catering to gamers who are hindered by outdated technology and aren’t able to enjoy optimal experiences in modern games or the latest display technologies.
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AMD has finally announced the specifications, pricing and availability for the AMD Ryzen Threadripper processor! This follows their AMD Computex 2017 press conference, where they showed off the massive 16-core CPU that is targeted at the ultra-premium desktop market, directly taking on the newly-launched Intel X-Series processor.
Here is EVERYTHING you need to know about the AMD Ryzen Threadripper processors – specifications, performance, and even the special Game Mode feature! Read and SHARE!
Updated @ 2017-09-04 : We updated the availability of the Ryzen Threadripper 1900X processor, and added many links, including a link to The First AMD X399 Threadripper Motherboards. Also cleaned up many parts of the article.
Updated @ 2017-07-31 : We added details of the newly-announced Ryzen Threadripper 1900X processor, and availability of all three models. We also added a new section on the Delidded Threadripper, and the secrets it revealed!
Updated @ 2017-07-18 : We added the official AMD Ryzen Threadripper specifications and prices, confirming many of the earlier leaked details. Don’t forget to check out the official announcement video below!
Updated @ 2017-06-13 : We added new details that were just leaked about the AMD Ryzen Threadripper processor.
Originally posted @ 2017-06-05
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Processor
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper will have up to 16 cores, processing up to 32 simultaneous threads. It will use the new Socket TR4, have quad-channel DDR4 memory support and feature 64 PCI Express lanes. If you were impressed by the 8-coreAMD Ryzen 7 processors (read our AMD Ryzen 7 1800X review), just imagine how powerful the 16-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper processor will be.
In this video, Jim Anderson, Senior Vice-President and General Manager of the AMD Compute and Graphics business group, reveals the key features of the Threadripper CPU and Socket TR4 platform.
Then, AMD President & CEO, Dr. Lisa Su, showed us a demo of Prey running on 4K (on Ultra High settings) using the AMD Ryzen Threadripper, with dual AMD Radeon RX Vega graphics cards. However, she did not reveal the average frame rate of this setup.
In this new video, Dr. Lisa Su and John Taylor (Corporate Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, AMD), reveal the specifications of the two first AMD Ryzen Threadripper processors (as well as the first two Ryzen 3 processors). It also shows both Ryzen Threadripper CPUs delivering higher performance in Cinebench R15 than Intel Core i9-7900X X-Series processor.
Targeted at the high-end desktop (HEDT) market, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper is paired with the X399 chipset and the new Socket TR4, offering quad memory channels and support up to 2TB of DDR4 memory, as well as 64 PCI Express 3.0 lanes!
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Specifications, Prices & Availability
On 13 July 2017, AMD revealed announced the Threadripper 1950X (Lowest Price) and 1920X (Lowest Price) models. A week later, they announced the 8-core Threadripper 1900X (Lowest Price) model. Here are their specifications :
Specifications
Ryzen Threadripper
1950X
Ryzen Threadripper
1920X
Ryzen Threadripper
1900X
Cores / Threads
16 / 32
12 / 24
8 / 16
Core Clock Speed
3.4 GHz
3.5 GHz
3.8 GHz
Boost Clock Speed
4.0 GHz
4.0 GHz
4.0 GHz
XFR Support
Yes
Yes
Yes
L2 Cache Size
8 MB
6 MB
4 MB
L3 Cache Size
32 MB
32 MB
16 MB
Maximum Memory
128 GB
128 GB
128 GB
Max. TDP
180 W
180 W
180 W
Launch Price
US$ 999
US$ 799
US$ 549
Availability
10 August 2017
10 August 2017
1 September 2017
Both the Ryzen Threadripper 1950X (Lowest Price) and 1920X (Lowest Price) processors are available for pre-order starting 30 July 2017, with delivery and general market availability on 10 August 2017.
AMD originally stated that the Ryzen Threadripper 1900X (Lowest Price) would be available on 31 August 2017, but they later shifted it one day later to 1 September 2017.
Here are the prices for South East Asia, with their estimated value in USD.
Countries
Tax
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920X
United States
Not inclusive
USD 999
USD 799
Indonesia
10% VAT
Rp 14,790,000
~USD 1,111
Rp 11,749,000
~USD 882
Malaysia
6% GST
RM 4,799
~USD 1,120
RM 3,899
~USD 938
Philippines
12% VAT
PHP 59,700
~USD 1,179
PHP 47,500
~USD 1,179
Singapore
7% GST
SGD 1,589
~USD 1,166
SGD 1,279
~USD 938
Thailand
7% VAT
฿ 49,900
~USD 1,216
฿ 33,900
~USD 1,008
Vietnam
10% VAT
29,000,000 ₫
~USD 1,272
23,100,000 ₫
~USD 1,013
For your convenience, here are some Amazon purchase links :
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X processor only – $999
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920X processor only – $799
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1900X processor only – $549
After the AMD Computex 2017 press conference, we had the opportunity to mingle with both Dr. Lisa Su and Jim Anderson. We also had the opportunity to take our first ever close-up look at the AMD Ryzen Threadripper and Ryzen Mobile CPUs. Check them out!
As you can see, this is a MASSIVE processor, with 4094 pins. It makes the AMD Ryzen Mobile APU look absolutely diminutive!
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The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Delidded
German overclocked der8auer delidded a Threadripper processor with AMD’s permission recently, revealing many interesting facts.
It has four Zeppelin dies with 32 cores, but only two dies (16 cores) are functional.
It is functionally the AMD EPYC server processor with half the dies disabled.
The dies are soldered to a gold-plated heat spreader using indium solder.
These were the leaked information we posted earlier :
Although rumoured to be branded as the AMD Ryzen 9 processor (to directly compete against the newly-announced Intel Core i9 processors), AMD will be using the Ryzen Threadripper name instead. We can’t blame them – Threadripper is certainly a better and more memorable name than Ryzen 9![adrotate banner=”4″]
-> Correct! AMD has announced that it will be called AMD Ryzen Threadripper!
AMD will launch two Threadripper processors on 27 July 2017. ->Correct!
The top-of-the-line processor will have 16 cores, capable of handling 32 simultaneous threads. ->Correct! It is the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X!
There will also be a 12-core processor, capable of handling 24 simultaneous threads. ->Correct! It is the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920X!
There will eventually be 14-core and 10-core versions as well.
All AMD Ryzen Threadripper processors will support quad DDR4 memory channels and 64 PCI Express lanes. ->Correct!
They are rumoured to use a solder thermal interface material (TIM), which would make deliding of the processor by enthusiasts difficult, if not impossible. ->Correct!
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The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Box
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper comes in an awesome box. Check it out!
Multithreaded CPU Performance
AMD shared these multithreaded performance results for the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X (Lowest Price) and 1920X (Lowest Price) processors, compared to the Intel Core i9-7900X.
Here is a summary of the results, using the Intel Core i9-7900X as the baseline (100%) :
Benchmark
Intel Core i9-7900X
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920X
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X
POV-Ray 3.7
100%
+ 6.1%
+ 30.8%
Adobe Premiere Pro CC 2017
100%
– 4.9%
+ 16.7%
HandBrake 1.0.7
100%
+ 5.1%
+ 21.0%
7-Zip 16.0.2
100%
+ 3.5%
+ 26.9%
VeraCrypt 1.2.1
100%
+ 18.6%
+ 55.1%
Corona Photorealism 1.3
100%
+ 1.1%
+ 26.8%
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1440p Gaming Performance
And here are 1440p gaming performance results on the two AMD Ryzen Threadripper processors, using the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti.
Here is a quick comparison of the results, using the Threadripper 1920X (Lowest Price) as the baseline (100%) :
Benchmark
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920X
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X
Rise of the Tomb Raider
100%
+ 0.7%
Ashes of the Singularity
100%
+ 5.3%
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided
100%
+ 2.9%
Battlefield 1
100%
+ 1.7%
Hitman
100%
+ 19.2%
The Threadripper Game Mode
Games are mostly optimised for quad-core processors… and rarely make use of octa-core processors. In fact, having even more cores can result in poorer performance due to poor thread scheduling. In some cases, the game may not even run at all.
To avoid those problems, AMD developer the Threadripper Game Mode. You can switch from the default “Creator Mode” to the “Game Mode” in the AMD Ryzen Master utility. Switching to Game Mode changes the Threadripper processor in two ways :
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It temporarily disables half the CPU cores, turning the Threadripper 1950X (Lowest Price) into an 8C 16T processor like the AMD Ryzen 1800X, and the Threadripper1920X (Lowest Price) into an 6C 12T processor like the AMD Ryzen 1600X.
It tells the operating system to use a Local Mode (NUMA) memory, which keeps the game and its memory footprint inside one CPU die and the locally-connected DRAM memory. This minimises several key latency points in the system, which will improve gaming performance.
Once you are done playing your game, you can switch back to Creator Mode to make full use of all of the Threadripper’s cores.
Let’s take a look at the performance difference between the Creator Mode and the Game Mode.
As you can see, the Game Mode improves the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X’s gaming performance by 10% to 38%. It’s likely that disabling half the cores also allow the Threadripper to clock them higher, as there is now a much higher thermal headroom.
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Planning to buy the AMD Ryzen Threadripper? Don’t forget about the motherboard! To help you make your choice, here are the first AMD X399 motherboards you can pair your Threadripper with!
Updated @ 2017-09-03 : Added the ASUS PRIME X399-A motherboard, and purchase links for all AMD X399 motherboards. Other minor updates.
Originally posted @ 2017-08-15
The AMD X399 Chipset
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper is designed specifically to work with the AMD X399 chipset. Together, they offer the following features :
64 PCI Express lanes
Quad-channel DDR4 SDRAM memory
Up to 2 native USB 3.1 Gen2 ports
Up to 14 USB 3.1 Gen1 ports
Up to 6 USB 2.0 ports
Up to 16 SATA ports
As announced in Computex 2017, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper will launch with AMD X399 motherboards from ASRock, ASUS, GIGABYTE and MSI. Here are those motherboards :
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The ASUS PRIME X399-A
The ASUS PRIME X399-A (Lowest Price) boasts the following features :
5-Way Optimization: One-click, system-wide tuning, delivering optimized overclocks and intelligent cooling for CPU or GPU-intensive tasks.
Industry-leading cooling options: Comprehensive controls for fans and water pumps, via Fan Xpert 4 software or the acclaimed ASUS UEFI.
Next-gen connectivity: Onboard U.2, M.2 and front-panel USB 3.1 Gen 2 connector.
M.2 heatsink: Ultra-efficient heatsink reduces M.2 SSD temperatures by up to 20°C for unthrottled transfer speeds and enhanced reliability.
Aura Sync: Controllable onboard RGB lighting easily syncs with an ever-growing portfolio of Aura Sync-capable hardware.
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The GIGABYTE X399 AORUS Gaming 7
The GIGABYTE X399 AORUS Gaming 7 (Lowest Price) boasts the following features :
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The new AMD Ryzen 7 processors will hit the stores on March 2, 2017, with pre-orders open on the Ryzen 7 1800X, the Ryzen 7 1700X and the Ryzen 7 1700 right now. But what about the motherboards? Let’s find out what AMD’s motherboard partners have in store to pair with the AMD Ryzen 7 processors!
More Than 82 Motherboard Models
AMD promised that there will be at least 82 different AMD AM4 motherboards for the AMD Ryzen 7 processors by launch day. They listed their five motherboard partners – ASUS, GIGABYTE, MSI, BIOSTAR and ASRock, but did not mention the actual motherboard models, or their chipsets.
Together with the AMD Ryzen 7 processors, AMD also launched the AMD X370 chipset. This is an enthusiast-class chipset designed for use with the Ryzen 7 processors. However, the Ryzen 7 will work with the AMD B350 and A320 chipsets that were introduced with the earlier AMD 7th Generation APUs (Bristol Ridge) processors. If you have an existing AMD B350 or A320 motherboard, they just require a BIOS update to support the AMD Ryzen 7 processors.
The 34 AMD Ryzen 7 Motherboard Models Currently Available
AMD did not reveal the whole slew of 82 AMD Ryzen 7 motherboards, but we have pictures and some details of the 34 motherboards that will support the AMD Ryzen 7 processors on launch day. Check them out :
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The ASRock Ryzen 7 Motherboards Part 1 / 2
ASRock X370 Taichi
This is the ASRock X370 Taichi motherboard, with the following features :
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The ASRock Ryzen 7 Motherboards Part 2 / 2
ASRock AB350M-HDV
This is the ASRock AB350M-HDV motherboard, with the following features :
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The BIOSTAR Ryzen 7 Motherboards
BIOSTAR B350ET2 (Ver. 6.x)
This is the BIOSTAR B350ET2 motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (2 DIMMs)
1 PCIe 3.0 x16, 2 PCIe 3.0 x1
Graphics Output : DVI-D
Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD Audio
8 x SATA3 ports
4 USB 3.1 ports (Gen 1), 4 USB 2.0 (2 Front, 2 Rear), 2 USB 2.0 (power only)
BIOSTAR RACING B350GT5 (Ver. 5.x)
This is the BIOSTAR RACING B350GT5 motherboard, with the following features :
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The GIGABYTE Ryzen 7 Motherboards Part 1 / 2
GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-HD3
This is the GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-HD3 motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (2 DIMMs)
1 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x1
Graphics Output : HDMI, DVI-D, VGA
Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD Audio
6 x SATA3 ports, 1 x M.2 Socket 3 (M key)
3 USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, 4 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, 6 USB 2.0 (4 Front, 2 Rear)
GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-DS2
This is the GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-DS2 motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (2 DIMMs)
1 PCIe 3.0 x16, 2 PCIe 2.0 x1
Graphics Output : HDMI, DVI-D, VGA
Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD Audio
4 x SATA3 ports
2 USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, 4 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, 6 USB 2.0 (4 Front, 2 Rear)
GIGABYTE GA-AX370-Gaming K7
This is the GIGABYTE GA-AX370-Gaming K7 motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (4 DIMMs)
2 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 3 PCIe 2.0 x1
Graphics Output : HDMI
2 x Realtek ALC1220 codecs, support for Sound Blaster X-Fi MB5
8 x SATA3 ports, 2 x SATA Express, 1 x M.2 Socket 3 (M key)
3 USB 3.1 Gen 2 (1 x Type C, 2 x Type A), 6 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports
1 x Intel Gigabit LAN, 1 x Rivet Killer E2500 LAN controller
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The GIGABYTE Ryzen 7 Motherboards Part 2 / 2
GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-D3H
This is the GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-D3H motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (4 DIMMs)
1 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 1 PCI
Graphics Output : HDMI, DVI-D
Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD Audio
6 x SATA3 ports
2 USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, 6 USB 2.0 (4 Front, 2 Rear)
GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-Gaming 3
This is the GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-Gaming 3 motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (4 DIMMs)
1 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x1
Graphics Output : HDMI, DVI-D, VGA
Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD Audio
6 x SATA3 ports, 1 x M.2 Socket 3 (M key)
2 USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, 6 USB 2.0 (4 Front, 2 Rear)
Realtek Gigabit LAN
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GIGABYTE GA-AB350-Gaming 3
This is the GIGABYTE GA-AB350-Gaming 3 motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (4 DIMMs)
2 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x1
Graphics Output : HDMI, DVI-D, VGA
Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD Audio
4 x SATA3 ports, 1 x M.2 Socket 3 (M key)
2 USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, 6 USB 2.0 (4 Front, 2 Rear)
Realtek Gigabit LAN
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GIGABYTE GA-AB350-Gaming
This is the GIGABYTE GA-AB350-Gaming motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (4 DIMMs)
1 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 2 PCIe 2.0 x1
Graphics Output : HDMI, DVI-D
Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD Audio
4 x SATA3 ports, 1 x M.2 Socket 3 (M key)
2 USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, 6 USB 2.0 (4 Front, 2 Rear)
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The MSI Ryzen 7 Motherboards
MSI B350 Tomahawk
This is the MSI B350 Tomahawk motherboard, with the following features :
Supports DDR4 2667 (4 DIMMs)
2 PCIe 3.0 x16, 2 PCIe 2.0 x1, 2 PCI
Graphics Output : HDMI, DVI-D, VGA
Realtek ALC892 8-Channel HD Audio
4 x SATA3 ports, 1 x M.2 Socket 3 (M key)
8 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports (4 Front, 4 Rear), 6 USB 2.0 (4 Front, 2 Rear)
2 USB 3.1 Gen 2 port (1 x Type A, 1 x Type C), 8 USB 3.1 Gen 1 (4 Front, 4 Rear), 6 USB 2.0 (4 Front, 2 Rear)
Intel I211AT Gigabit LAN controller
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ASRock is a relatively new motherboard manufacturer, and it shows in their designs. They are more willing to come up with edgier designs, with a particular emphasis on marketing-friendly features. Today, we are going to take a look at one of their Fatal1ty-branded motherboards based on the Intel Z170 chipset – the ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4.
Up to 64 GB of non-ECC, unbuffered DDR4 memory
- Four DDR4 DIMM slots with 15 μ gold-plated contacts (dual-channel)
- Supports up to DDR4-3866+ (OC) with a single memory module
- Supports DDR4-3600 (OC) / DDR4-3200 (OC) / DDR4-2933 (OC) / DDR4-2800 (OC) / DDR4-2400 (OC) / DDR4-2133
- Supports ECC UDIMM memory modules (operating in non-ECC mode)
- Supports Intel Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) 2.0
BIOS
Two 128 Mbits AMI UEFI BIOS with multilingual GUI support
- Supports Secure Backup UEFI Technology
- ACPI 5.0 & SMBIOS 2.7 Compliant
- Supports CPU, DRAM, PCH 1.0V, VCCIO, VCCSA voltage adjustments
Processor Graphics Support
- Supports Intel HD Graphics with up to 1792 MB shared memory
- Built-in DVI-D, HDMI and DisplayPort 1.2 output supports triple monitors
- Maximum DVI-D resolution : 1920 x 1200 @ 60 Hz
- Maximum HDMI resolution : 4096 x 2160 @ 24 Hz / 3840 x 2160 @ 30 Hz
- Maximum DisplayPort resolution : 4096 x 2304 @ 60 Hz
Audio Support
ASRock Purity Sound 3
- Realtek ALC1150 7.1-channel HD audio codec
- Nichicon Fine Gold series capacitors, 115 dB SND DAC with two Ti NE5532 amplifiers
2 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots
- x16 (PCIE2) and x4 (PCIE4)
- Supports AMD Quad CrossFireX and CrossFireX
3 x PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots (Flexible PCIe design)
Storage Ports
2 x SATA Express (10 Gb/s) ports with RAID 0/1/5/10 support
- each can be converted into two SATA 3 (6.0 Gb/s) ports
2 x SATA 3 (6 Gb/s) ports
1 x Ultra M.2 socket
- Supports Type 2230 / 2242 / 2260 / 2280 / 22110 M.2 modules
- Supports M.2 PCI Express module up to Gen 3 x4
Connectors
- 1 x COM Port Header
- 1 x TPM Header
- 1 x Power LED and Speaker Header
- 2 x CPU Fan Connectors (4-pin) (Smart Fan Speed Control)
- 4 x Chassis Fan Connectors (4-pin) (Smart Fan Speed Control)
- 1 x 24 pin ATX Power Connector
- 1 x 8 pin 12V Power Connector (Hi-Density Power Connector)
- 1 x Front Panel Audio Connector
- 1 x Thunderbolt™ AIC Connector
- 2 x USB 2.0 Headers (Support 4 USB 2.0 ports) (ASRock Full Spike Protection)
- 1 x USB 3.0 Header (ASRock Full Spike Protection)
Rear Panel I/O
- 1 x PS/2 Mouse/Keyboard Port
- 1 x DVI-D Port
- 1 x HDMI Port
- 1 x Optical SPDIF Out Port
- 1 x USB 2.0 Port (ASRock Full Spike Protection)
- 1 x USB 2.0 Fatal1ty Mouse Port (ASRock Full Spike Protection)
- 5 x USB 3.0 Ports (ASRock Full Spike Protection)
- 1 x USB 3.0 Type C Port (ASRock Full Spike Protection)
- 1 x RJ-45 LAN Port with LED (ACT/LINK LED and SPEED LED)
- HD Audio Jacks: Rear Speaker / Central / Bass / Line in / Front Speaker / Microphone
Hardware Sensors
- CPU & chassis temperature sensors and fan tachometers
- Voltage monitoring for +12V, +5V, +3.3V, CPU Vcore, DRAM, VPPM, PCH 1.0V, VCCIO, VCCSA
Form Factor
Full ATX : 30.5 cm x 21.8 cm / 12.0" x 8.6"
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 / 8 / 8.1 / 7
Certifications
- FCC, CE, WHQL
- ErP/EuP ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required)
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Unboxing The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 comes in a typical motherboard box – a large cardboard box with its key features printed on the underside. Let us show you what’s inside the box in this unboxing video…
Inside, the box is divided into two layers by a simple cardboard insert. Under it is the ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 motherboard in an anti-static bag with a pink polyethylene anti-static sheet wrapped around it.
When you remove everything, you will find the following items :
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
Supports Full Spike Protection, ASRock Live Update & APP Shop, F-Stream, Key Master, XSplit
We also prepared a special video to show you the key design features of the ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 motherboard. Enjoy!
CPU Power & Performance
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 motherboard features a 10-phase power design. This is most likely an 8+2 design, with 8 phases dedicated to the CPU. That ensures a cooler and more efficient power conversion compared to voltage regulator modules (VRM) with fewer phases. Its MOSFETs and inductors are kept cool by large aluminium alloy heatsinks, which helps ensure reliability and longevity of the VRM.
The Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 uses digital pulse-width modulation (PWM) to control its VRM. The PWM is critical in ensuring a stable power supply. Although high quality (and expensive) analog PWM exists, digital PWM allows for more accurate control of the power frequency and modulation.
ASRock also equipped the Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 with Nichicon 12K Platinum capacitors, which not only boasts faster response times and lower voltage noise but also a much longer lifespan (12,000 hours @ 105 °C). In general – this motherboard is designed to last.
To support CPU coolers with two fans, or a DIMM cooler, The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 has two CPU fan headers – one on each end of the four DIMM slots.
PCI Express Slots
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 motherboard has 5 PCI Express slots – 2 full-sized PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots, and 3 much smaller PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots. The upper PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIE2) operates at full x16 speed while the lower PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIE4) only operates at x4 speed.
The three PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots are of the flexible design. That basically means an open-ended slot. This allows you to use any PCI Express card in those x1 slots, even x16 cards. The only downside is that they will only run at x1 speed.
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
DDR4 Memory Slots
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 motherboard has four DDR4 DIMM slots, their contacts gold-plated to protect them against oxidation and corrosion. Even though the Intel Z170 chipset only supports non-ECC memory, these DIMM slots can accept ECC memory modules – with their ECC capability disabled.
The Intel Z170 chipset only supports DDR4 memory up to 2133 MHz in frequency, but the Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 allows for overclocked memory clock speeds of up to 3600 MHz with selected modules. It even supports 3866 MHz, but only if a single memory module is installed.
Ultra M.2 Socket
The Ultra M.2 socket is a unique ASRock feature. The M.2 socket is usually connected to the Z170 chipset using two PCI Express lanes. ASRock has instead connected the M.2 socket directly to the Intel Core processor using four PCI Express lanes. This not only doubles the maximum bandwidth to 32 Gbits/s (4 GB/s), it also reduces the M.2 socket’s latency.
Of course, you will need an M.2 SSD that supports PCIe x4. Even so, PCIe x2 SSDs may benefit slightly from the lower latencies associated with the Ultra M.2 socket being directly connected to the CPU, bypassing the Z170 chipset.
SATA Ports
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 specifications officially quotes 2 SATA Express ports as well as 6 standard SATA 3 ports. However, this is not really the case – it only comes with 2 SATA Express ports and 2 SATA 3 ports.
Of course, each SATA Express port can be “converted” into 2 standard SATA 3 ports. After all, the SATA Express port is really just two SATA 3 ports with a smaller PCI Express port that delivers two PCIe lanes. In other words, it supports up to 2 SATA Express drives and 2 SATA drives, or up to 6 SATA drives.
Depending on how many drives you intend to use in your system, this may or may not be sufficient. But the good news is that they did stack the connectors, like they did in the ASRock Z170 Extreme4. This makes the Z170 Gaming K4’s connectors must easier to access.
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ASRock Purity Sound 3
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 motherboard comes with the ASRock Purity Sound 3 audio solution. This is a combination of the Realtek ALC1150 audio codec with a 115 dB SNR DAC, two Ti NE5532 amplifiers as well as EMI and PCB shielding.
One of the Ti NE5532 amplifiers is used as a differential amplifier, which avoids the distortion caused by audio capacitors. The other Ti NE5532 amplifier is dedicated to driving the headphone port, allowing you to use high-impedance headphones without a separate amplifier or sound card.
Dual BIOS
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 was designed with techies in mind. It sports two 128 Mbit BIOS chips, with a physical switch. This allows you to quickly switch to the backup BIOS if you make an unrecoverable mistake in the BIOS setting, or the BIOS is corrupted after a flash failure.
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
Fatal1ty Mouse Port
This is the ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4‘s “killer feature” – the Fatal1ty mouse port. This red-coloured mouse port is supposed to impart Johnathan “Fatal1ty” Wendel‘s skills to the user when a mouse is plugged in. How is that supposed to happen?
With the ASRock F-Stream software installed, the Fatal1ty mouse port is set to use Fatal1ty’s personal preferred mouse polling rate of 500 Hz. The ASRock F-Stream software also allows you to change the mouse polling rate from 125 Hz to 1000 Hz. Of course, the higher polling rates may not be supported by some mice.
Frankly speaking, this is really just marketing fluff. Any gamer who takes gaming even half-seriously would be using a half-decent gaming mouse. And most (if not all) half-decent gaming mice allow you to change the mouse polling rates, amongst other things. There is no need to even use a special mouse port to achieve this.
If you have a good gaming mouse, it will even allow you to change the polling rate or sensor resolution on-the-fly… and yes, it would work with any USB port. So why bother with the Fatal1ty mouse port?
I/O Ports & Armor
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 has a ton of I/O ports at the rear, including a legacy PS/2 port, two USB 2.0 ports (the top port being the Fatal1ty mouse port), a Type C USB 3.0 port (note that this is not the faster USB 3.1 port) as well as 5 standard USB 3.0 ports. In addition to the 5 audio and line-in port, it also sports a single Gigabit LAN port. For display purposes, it offers a DVI-D port and a HDMI port.
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 also features what ASRock calls their I/O Armor. It is ostensibly a protective cover that protects the rear I/O ports from static damage. Frankly speaking, this is only useful if you are using the motherboard outside of a chassis. When installed in a chassis, that job is fulfilled by the I/O shield (also included) that is installed into the chassis.
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Other Accessories
Here is a closer look at the other accessories included in the ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 package – the manual and driver CD. A case sticker can be found inside the driver CD sleeve.
It also comes with four SATA 3 cables and a small plastic bag with a single small screw – this is used to lock the Ultra M.2 SSD in place.
Our Verdict
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 motherboard has all of the hallmarks of a decent gaming motherboard. It boasts a 10-phase power design with a digital PWM and Nichicon 12K Platinum capacitors. The entire power supply is further cooled by large aluminium-alloy heatsinks. A lot of effort has gone into ensuring an efficient power conversion, stable power supply and longer lifespan.
There are decent expansion options with 2 full-sized PCI Express x16 slots and 3 small PCIe x1 slots. The PCIe x1 slots are even the “flexible” type that will accept any PCI Express card. Audiophiles will appreciate the better audio quality courtesy of its Purity Sound 3 module. Their Ultra M.2 socket is also a nice touch although it has minimal effect on your M.2 SSD’s performance unless it supports PCIe x4.
The ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 comes with plenty of USB ports and headers, and even a Type C port. However, we should point out that it does not support the latest USB 3.1 standard. Even the Type C port is a USB 3.0 port. It allows you to attach USB 3.1 devices but it will only transfer data at USB 3.0 speeds, which is roughly half that of USB 3.1. If you must have USB 3.1 support, you need to consider the higher-end ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard.
But the greatest disappointment is the Fatal1ty Mouse Port feature. It is really nothing more than marketing fluff, since it is just a USB 2.0 port. Its ability to adjust the mouse polling rate is through the bundled F-Stream software. This is a standard feature in all gaming mouse software that does not require any special USB port.
If you are looking for a decent gaming motherboard based on the Intel Z170 chipset, the ASRock Fatal1ty Z170 Gaming K4 is worthy of consideration. It has plenty of genuine hardware features that will ensure long lifespan and high reliability. Just don’t expect the Fatal1ty brand or the Fatal1ty Mouse Port to impart any gaming benefit. That’s pure marketing. Focus on the real features and you won’t be disappointed.
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
ASRock is a relatively new motherboard manufacturer, and it shows in their designs. They are more willing to come up with edgier designs, with a particular emphasis on marketing-friendly features. Today, we are going to take a look at one of their Intel Z170-based motherboards – the ASRock Z170 Extreme4.
Updated @ 2016-05-03 :Updated the review with additional information, particularly with regards to its PCI Express and SATA Express ports.
Up to 64 GB of non-ECC, unbuffered DDR4 memory
- Four DDR4 DIMM slots with 15 μ gold-plated contacts (dual-channel)
- Supports up to DDR4-3866+ (OC) with a single memory module
- Supports DDR4-3600 (OC) / DDR4-3200 (OC) / DDR4-2933 (OC) / DDR4-2800 (OC) / DDR4-2400 (OC) / DDR4-2133
- Supports ECC UDIMM memory modules (operating in non-ECC mode)
- Supports Intel Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) 2.0
BIOS
Two 128 Mbits AMI UEFI BIOS with multilingual GUI support
- Supports Secure Backup UEFI Technology
- ACPI 5.0 & SMBIOS 2.7 Compliant
- Supports CPU, DRAM, PCH 1.0V, VCCIO, VCCSA voltage adjustments
Processor Graphics Support
- Supports Intel HD Graphics with up to 1792 MB shared memory
- Built-in DVI-D, HDMI and DisplayPort 1.2 output supports triple monitors
- Maximum DVI-D resolution : 1920 x 1200 @ 60 Hz
- Maximum HDMI resolution : 4096 x 2160 @ 24 Hz / 3840 x 2160 @ 30 Hz
- Maximum DisplayPort resolution : 4096 x 2304 @ 60 Hz
Audio Support
ASRock Purity Sound 3
- Realtek ALC1150 7.1-channel HD audio codec
- Nichicon Fine Gold series capacitors, 115 dB SND DAC with two Ti NE5532 amplifiers
3 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots
- x16 with single card / x8-x8 with two cards / x8-x8-x4 with three cards
- Supports AMD Quad CrossFireX, 3-Way CrossFireX and CrossFireX
- Supports NVIDIA Quad SLI and SLI
3 x PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots (Flexible PCIe design)
Storage Ports
3 x SATA Express (10 Gb/s) ports with RAID 0/1/5/10 support
- each can be converted into two SATA 3 (6.0 Gb/s) ports
1 x Ultra M.2 socket
- Supports Type 2230 / 2242 / 2260 / 2280 / 22110 M.2 modules
- Supports M.2 PCI Express module up to Gen 3 x4
Connectors
- 1 x COM Port Header
- 1 x TPM Header
- 1 x Power LED and Speaker Header
- 2 x CPU Fan Connectors (4-pin) (Smart Fan Speed Control)
- 3 x Chassis Fan Connectors (4-pin) (Smart Fan Speed Control)
- 1 x 24 pin ATX Power Connector
- 1 x 8 pin 12V Power Connector (Hi-Density Power Connector)
- 1 x Front Panel Audio Connector
- 1 x Thunderbolt™ AIC Connector
- 2 x USB 2.0 Headers (Support 4 USB 2.0 ports) (ASRock Full Spike Protection)
- 1 x USB 3.0 Header (ASRock Full Spike Protection)
- 1 x Dr. Debug with LED
- 1 x Power Switch with LED
- 1 x Reset Switch with LED
Rear Panel I/O
- 1 x PS/2 Mouse/Keyboard Port
- 1 x DVI-D Port
- 1 x HDMI Port
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 1 x Optical SPDIF Out Port
- 1 x USB 3.1 Type-A Port (10 Gb/s) (ASMedia ASM1142) (Supports ESD Protection)
- 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C Port (10 Gb/s) (ASMedia ASM1142) (Supports ESD Protection)
- 6 x USB 3.0 Ports (Intel Z170) (Supports ESD Protection)
- 1 x RJ-45 LAN Port with LED (ACT/LINK LED and SPEED LED)
- 1 x Clear CMOS Switch
- HD Audio Jacks: Rear Speaker / Central / Bass / Line in / Front Speaker / Microphone
Hardware Sensors
- CPU & chassis temperature sensors and fan tachometers
- Case Open detection
- Voltage monitoring for +12V, +5V, +3.3V, CPU Vcore, DRAM, VPPM, PCH 1.0V, VCCIO, VCCSA
Form Factor
Full ATX
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 / 8 / 8.1 / 7
Certifications
- FCC, CE, WHQL
- ErP/EuP ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required)
Unboxing The ASRock Z170 Extreme4
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 comes in a typical motherboard box – a large cardboard box with its key features printed on the underside. Let us show you what’s inside the box in this unboxing video…
Inside, the box is divided into two layers by a simple cardboard insert. Under it is the ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard in an anti-static bag with a pink polyethylene anti-static sheet wrapped around it.
When you remove everything, you will find the following items :
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 Motherboard
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 is a full ATX-sized motherboard that boasts the following key features :
2 USB 3.1 (1 Type-C & 1 Type-A), 8 USB 3.0 (2 Front, 6 Rear)
Supports Full Spike Protection, ASRock Live Update & APP Shop
We also prepared a special video to show you the key design features of the ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard. Enjoy!
CPU Power & Performance
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard features a 10-phase power design. This is most likely an 8+2 design, with 8 phases dedicated to the CPU. That ensures a cooler and more efficient power conversion compared to voltage regulator modules (VRM) with fewer phases. Its MOSFETs and inductors are kept cool by large aluminium alloy heatsinks, which helps ensure reliability and longevity of the VRM.
The Z170 Extreme4 uses digital pulse-width modulation (PWM) to control its VRM. The PWM is critical in ensuring a stable power supply. Although high quality (and expensive) analog PWM exists, digital PWM allows for more accurate control of the power frequency and modulation.
ASRock also equipped the Z170 Extreme4 with Nichicon 12K Platinum capacitors, which not only boasts faster response times and lower voltage noise but also a much longer lifespan (12,000 hours @ 105 °C). In general – this motherboard is designed to last.
To support CPU coolers with two fans, or a DIMM cooler, the ASRock Z170 Extreme4 has two CPU fan headers placed at the top of the board, right next to the four DIMM slots. Finally, the Z170 Extreme4 features an external base clock generator, which gives you finer control of the BLCK frequency- in 0.0625 MHz steps. Of course, the utility of such fine control of the BCLK clock is questionable…
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DDR4 Memory Slots
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard has four DDR4 DIMM slots, their contacts gold-plated to protect them against oxidation and corrosion. Even though the Intel Z170 chipset only supports non-ECC memory, these DIMM slots can accept ECC memory modules – with their ECC capability disabled.
The Intel Z170 chipset only supports DDR4 memory up to 2133 MHz in frequency, but the Z170 Extreme4 allows for overclocked memory clock speeds of up to 3600 MHz with selected modules. It even supports 3866 MHz, but only if a single memory module is installed.
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
PCI Express Slots
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard has 6 PCI Express slots – 3 full-sized PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots, and 3 much smaller PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots. The top-most PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIE2) operates at full x16 speed with a single card.
If you have two graphics cards, you will need to install them in PCIE2 and PCIE4 and they will both run at x8 speed. If you install a third graphics cards in the PCIE6 slot, it will only run at x4 speed.
The three PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots are of the flexible design. That basically means an open-ended slot. This allows you to use any PCI Express card in those x1 slots, even x16 cards. The only downside is that they will only run at x1 speed.
Ultra M.2 Socket
The Ultra M.2 socket is a unique ASRock feature. The M.2 socket is usually connected to the Z170 chipset using two PCI Express lanes. ASRock has instead connected the M.2 socket directly to the Intel Core processor using four PCI Express lanes. This not only doubles the maximum bandwidth to 32 Gbits/s (4 GB/s), it also reduces the M.2 socket’s latency.
Of course, you will need an M.2 SSD that supports PCIe x4. Even so, PCIe x2 SSDs may benefit slightly from the lower latencies associated with the Ultra M.2 socket being directly connected to the CPU, bypassing the Z170 chipset.
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SATA Ports
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 specifications officially quotes 3 SATA Express ports as well as 6 standard SATA 3 ports. However, that is not really the case – it only comes with 3 SATA Express ports.
Of course, each SATA Express port can be “converted” into 2 standard SATA 3 ports. After all, the SATA Express port is really just two SATA 3 ports with a smaller PCI Express port that delivers two PCIe lanes. So you can attach up to 3 SATA Express devices, or 6 SATA devices, or any combinations in between.
Depending on how many drives you intend to use in your system, this may or may not be sufficient. The stacked side-facing SATA ports also may prove to be troublesome. In tight cases, you may not be able to access the lower SATA Express port, depriving you of the opportunity to attach a SATA Express device, or two SATA devices.
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
ASRock Purity Sound 3
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard comes with their Purity Sound 3 audio solution. It is a combination of the Realtek ALC1150 audio codec with a 115 dB SNR DAC, two Ti NE5532 amplifiers as well as EMI and PCB shielding.
One of the Ti NE5532 amplifiers is used as a differential amplifier, which avoids the distortion caused by audio capacitors. The other Ti NE5532 amplifier is dedicated to driving the headphone port, allowing you to use high-impedance headphones without a separate amplifier or sound card.
Goodies For Techies
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 was designed with techies in mind. It sports two 128 Mbit BIOS chips, with a physical switch. This allows you to quickly switch to the backup BIOS if you make an unrecoverable mistake in the BIOS setting, or the BIOS is corrupted after a flash failure.
They also include physical Power and Reset buttons on the motherboard, for enthusiasts who prefer to use the Z170 Extreme4 outside of a chassis. There is also a 2-digit Dr. Debug LED display that displays an error code during any failure. Very useful indeed.
I/O Ports & Armor
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 has a ton of I/O ports at the rear, including a legacy PS/2 port, a physical Reset button, two USB 3.1 ports (one Type A, one Type C) as well as 6 standard USB 3.0 ports. In addition to the 5 audio and line-in port, it also sports a single Gigabit LAN port. For display purposes, it boasts a DVI-D port, a HDMI port and a DisplayPort.
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 also features what ASRock calls their I/O Armor. It is ostensibly a protective cover that protects the rear I/O ports from static damage. Frankly speaking, this is only useful if you are using the motherboard outside of a chassis. When installed in a chassis, that job is fulfilled by the I/O shield (also included) that is installed into the chassis.
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Other Accessories
Here is a closer look at the other accessories included in the ASRock Z170 Extreme4 package – the manual and driver CD. A case sticker can be found inside the driver CD sleeve.
It also comes with four SATA 3 cables and an SLI bridge card. There is a small plastic bag with a single small screw – this is used to lock the Ultra M.2 SSD in place.
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
Our Verdict
ASRock has been accused of focusing a bit too much on marketing, at the expense of quality. However, this doesn’t seem to be the case with the ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard.
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 boasts a 10-phase power design with a digital PWM and Nichicon 12K Platinum capacitors. The entire power supply is further cooled by large aluminium-alloy heatsinks. A lot of effort has gone into ensuring an efficient power conversion, stable power supply and longer lifespan.
We also like the fact that they added support for USB 3.1. Not just the more common Type C, they also added the larger Type A port. Their Ultra M.2 socket is also a nice touch although it has minimal effect on your M.2 SSD’s performance unless it supports PCIe x4.
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Audiophiles will appreciate the better audio quality courtesy of its Purity Sound 3 module. Enthusiasts who prefer using the motherboard “in the nude” will love their addition of physical Power and Reset buttons as well as a Dr. Debug LED.
There is plenty of expansion options with 3 full-sized PCI Express x16 slots and 3 small PCIe x1 slots. The PCIe x1 slots are even the “flexible” type that will accept any PCI Express card.
The only downside is the limited number of SATA ports. This will be a problem in tight cases because 4 of them are stacked and bent perpendicularly. Only two of the SATA ports are conveniently located at the lower right corner of the motherboard.
Overall, this is one sweet Intel Z170 motherboard, especially for a hardware enthusiast who prefers not to use a chassis. We think it deserves at least our Reviewers’ Choice Award. Congratulations, ASRock!
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
TAIPEI, Taiwan – Intel® Skylake K series CPUs are on every hardcore overclocker’s wish list, due to the fact that they are the only ones with an unlocked multiplier that allows users to overclock the CPU frequency effortlessly. However, there seems to be a shortage of these ultra high performing processors lately.
Thankfully ASRock has prepared a nice Christmas present for the overclocking community named SKY OC, an alternative for users to overclock any IntelSkylake i7/i5/i3 or even Pentium non-K CPUs on their ASRock Z170 motherboard.
Engineers at ASRock picked up from where they left off last time, and decided that besides DDR4 memory modules, there might be a way to overclock Intel non-K CPUs without tinkering the multiplier. So here you have the game changing SKY OC which is obtainable simply by a BIOS upgrade from ASRock’s official website.
It’s not the same as overclocking an IntelK-series CPU, because it’s mainly changing the BCLK, but it will be an interesting alternative while people are still waiting for their K-series CPUs to come down the chimney. Lab tests show that the once not overclockable Intel Core i5-6400 CPU can now be overclocked up to a 60% frequency boost with SKY OC on ASRock’s Z170 Pro4!
One might wonder, “this is too good to be true, what’s the catch?” Well, if you had to ask, there are two almost unnoticeable limitations. The first one is the onboard Intel graphics will be disabled while ASRock SKY OC is applied, meaning that users are required to install a graphics card. The second limitation is that CPU Turbo Ratio and C-State will also be disabled.
While ASRock SKY OC breathes life into Intel non-K series CPUs, currently it is still exclusive to motherboards with Intel’s Z170 chipset. But have faith in ASRock’s skillful engineers, sooner or later more Christmas gifts from ASRock are going to be delivered.
List of BIOS versions that support ASRock SKY OC:
Model
BIOS
Model
BIOS
Z170 OC Formula
L1.92
Z170M Pro4
L2.23
Z170 Extreme7+
L2.16
Z170M Pro4S
L2.23
Z170 Extreme6+
L1.82
Z170M-ITX/ac
L1.83
Z170 Extreme6
L1.82
Z170A-X1/3.1
L1.31
Z170 Extreme4+
L2.01
Z170 Professional Gaming i7
L1.14
Z170 Extreme4
L2.43
Z170 Gaming K6+
L1.92
Z170 Extreme3
L1.61
Z170 Gaming K6
L1.92
Z170M Extreme4
L1.34
Z170 Gaming K4
L2.23
Z170 Pro4
L2.83
Z170 Gaming K4/D3
L1.51
Z170 Pro4/D3
L1.74
Z170 Gaming-ITX/ac
L1.53
Z170 Pro4S
L2.73
ASRock SKY OC Disclaimer
Intel® iGPU, CPU Turbo Ratio, AVX and C-State function will be disabled when running SKY OC, a discrete VGA card is required.
[adrotate banner=”4″]For Z170M PRO4S / Z170M-ITX/ac / Z170M Pro4 / Z170M Extreme4, the CPU temperature cannot be read when running SKY OC.
The overclocking results may vary between different CPUs and hardware configurations.
Due to future hardware/firmware updates or other reasons, the availability of SKY OC is subject to change without notice in advance.
There are certain risks involved with overclocking, such as damaging the CPU, memory module, power supply unit, or destabilizing the system. It should be done at your own expense. If you are unsure about the risks of overclocking, please seek professional advice.
