ASUS P8Z77-M Pro– motherboard for the LGA1155 platform, based on the chipset Intel Z77 and made in the form factor mATX. Compact, functional and relatively inexpensive device with the ability fine tuning parameters. These are precisely the criteria that users are increasingly paying attention to when choosing a basis for new system. Let's see if, based on the testing results, we can emphasize all of the listed points, and not just some of them.
The mATX form factor board is made in characteristic colors for devices of the ASUS P8 line, and the device turned out to be quite colorful. It would seem that the usual combination of black, blue and white colors is used, but on a small piece of PCB the color palette of elements changes quite actively, and you notice this already at the first glance at the device.
The power subsystem has eight phases (6+2). To adjust the parameters of the power stabilizer, the DIGI+VRM controller (ASP1105) is used. In this case, to speed up heat dissipation, the VRM elements are equipped with radiators. The low-profile coolers are painted blue, with one segment in the center section being a natural aluminum color for visual contrast. The chipset chip is also covered with a compact blue radiator.
To supply additional power, an 8-pin EATX12V connector is used, traditionally located at the top edge closer to the interface panel.
ASUS P8Z77-M Pro is equipped with four slots for memory modules, the total volume of which can be increased up to 32 GB. The speed performance of the DDR3 used largely depends on the capabilities of the processor used. In the case of the mATX form factor, memory module connectors with one-way locks are a great help. According to the layout, the video card in the upper PCI-E x16 slot will not interfere with the installation of RAM strips.
In general, the layout of the ASUS P8Z77-M Pro is very successful. Questions may arise only when installing large processor coolers. After installing Thermalright Archon Rev.A the first PCI-E slot x16 turns out to be unavailable - the dimensions of the radiator block do not allow installing a video card in the top slot. However, this cooler model is one of the largest in its class, the span of its radiator “wings” reaches 155 mm. Its trouble-free installation is not possible on every full-size model, but what can we say when it comes to compact mATX, where the first slot is already allocated for PCI-E x16, and not PCI-E x1. One way or another, this nuance is worth paying attention to.
The set of expansion slots cannot be called academic. The manufacturer abandoned obsolete PCI in favor of faster PCI Express. The PCB contains four slots: three full-length PCI-E x16, as well as one miniature PCI-E x1. The top slot, colored blue, is preferred when using a single video card. In this case, it receives all 16 bus lines and operates in the maximum speed mode. If graphics adapters pair, the second slot (white) is also used, and the link configuration looks like x8+x8. When using a processor family Ivy Bridge, both slots can operate in PCI Express 3.0 mode. The latest black “long-length” in any case complies with the PCI Express 2.0 specification and receives 4 dedicated bus lines.
The manufacturer focuses on the board's ability to work in multi-adapter configurations. This is opaquely hinted at even by the presence of an SLI bridge in the kit, which is not supplied with all models that support combinations with two video cards on chips from NVIDIA. CrossFireX configurations are also allowed, but the adapters required for such systems are usually supplied with the graphics adapters.
The location of the slots also suggests that the developers wanted to make life easier for those brave and enthusiastic people who will use a pair of video cards. They are arranged in such a sequence that two adapters with dual-slot coolers will be installed without problems. Of course, in this case set additional cards expansion will no longer be possible, but access to the elements at the bottom edge of the PCB will remain open.
The main controls, as well as functional connectors, are concentrated on the bottom edge of the board. There is a connector for outputting audio connectors to the front wall of the case, as well as toggle switches for activating proprietary TPU and EPU technologies. There is also a large LED indicator, the “warm lamp light” of which can be observed for many years on ASUS boards when the standby voltage is supplied from the power supply. Also nearby are three internal connectors for six USB 2.0 ports, a system panel for connecting control keys and indicators, as well as a jumper for resetting CMOS memory settings. There is also an activation button at the bottom edge. USB BIOS FlashBack– technology for flashing a flash chip from a USB drive, which is implemented at the hardware level. Another additional level of protection is the use of a replaceable panel for the flash chip, allowing it to be replaced if necessary.
Among the interesting nuances of the layout, we note the placement of the COM port connector in the corner of the printed circuit board, next to the memory slots. At the right edge, not far from the main power connector, there is a connector for connecting a TPM module. You can feel your pro-roots, you need to conform.
We didn't expect to see any abundance of specialized overclocking tools on the board, and in this regard, the ASUS P8Z77-M Pro was not a revelation. With some stretch, one can include the key MemOK!, which may be useful if you encounter difficulties with the initial start after installing a new set of memory. The function allows you to go through rough “grinding in” using timings with which the slats are guaranteed to work.
The technological feature of the device is four independent channels for adjusting fan speed. One for the processor and three more for the case. All connectors are four-pin, allowing you to change the speed using PWM, and all have support Q-Fan Control with specified profiles and the ability to fine-tune the algorithm.
The disk subsystem is implemented by Intel chipset Z77 – a pair of SATA 6 Gb/s channels and four SATA 3 Gb/s channels. The interface connectors are oriented parallel to the plane of the printed circuit board, so a long video card, although it will cause some difficulties when connecting cables in a compact case, will still make such a configuration quite possible.
An additional controller expands the possibilities for connecting drives ASMedia ASM1061, thanks to which a pair of eSATA connectors with a bandwidth of 6 Gb/s are implemented on the rear panel of the board. For a number of tasks, this interface is indispensable, despite the fact that after the widespread use of USB 3.0, the range of drives with eSATA has become rather scarce.
As for USB 3.0 itself, on the ASUS P8Z77-M Pro, in addition to the four ports provided by the Intel Z77, the controller adds a couple more ASMedia ASM1042. Note that the chipset ports are located in pairs on the interface panel and on the PCB (one internal connector for two ports). Two additional ones are located on the interface panel.
The audio subsystem is based on the Realtek ALC892 HDA codec. A proven eight-channel solution with the sound quality you expect. The network controller also uses a common solution - Realtek 8111F.
The interface panel is equipped very well. Universal PS/2, USB 2.0 pair, four USB port 3.0 and Ethernet socket. The interface set is complemented by a pair of eSATA, which can be useful if you have fast external storage. To connect display devices, analog VGA is provided, as well as a pair of digital video outputs - DVI-D and HDMI.
Connections speaker system any configuration is simplified by a panel with six audio connectors. In addition, for connecting acoustics digitally, an optical S/PDIF output is provided.
Contents of delivery
The delivery set includes a user manual, several brochures describing the nuances of the operation of a number of proprietary technologies, 4 SATA cables, a flexible SLI bridge and a plug for the rear wall of the case. Q-Connector sockets will greatly facilitate the connection of power buttons, speakers and status indicators.
UEFI
We have already talked about UEFI from ASUS several times. The shell is easy to use, logically structured, and has useful configuration tips various parameters. ASUS P8Z77-M Pro fully inherits the advantages of the proprietary shell.
The processor supply voltage can be increased “only” to 1.92 V (strongly not recommended without a glass of liquid nitrogen). The voltage on memory modules is also limited to the same limit. The proposed features are unlikely to set overclocking records, but the available funds are more than enough to boost the system well.
To configure a number of parameters, ASUS offers the use of a software kit AI Suite II, which includes several useful applications.
Overclocking
Following the path of least resistance, we began accelerating the system with the TurboV EVO feature. In the basic version ("Fast overclocking" mode) after rebooting the PC test processor Core i7-3770K accelerated to 4223 MHz (41x103 MHz). A 20% increase in frequency is a good start.
Once you start to get ahead, it is sometimes difficult to stop, especially when the button labeled “Extreme overclocking” is located several tens of desktop pixels from the basic acceleration key. Giving in to temptation, we got 4635 MHz (45x103 MHz).
Note that the auto-overclocking function actively takes advantage of the chip with an unlocked multiplier. Such a spurt would not have been possible without increasing the processor supply voltage, which was automatically increased to 1.245 V. In such a mode, it would definitely not be possible to do without an effective air cooler.
In manual control mode, after increasing the CPU supply voltage to 1.25 V, the processor clock frequency was increased to 4.8 GHz. If we talk about overclocking the system bus, the board made it possible to increase it to 108.5 MHz. The test set of DDR3-2133 memory modules worked without any particular difficulties and ran at 2200 MHz.
In the conditions of an open bench and a tower-type processor cooler, radiators mounted on MOSFET elements warmed up to 52–54 degrees under load. The temperature of the chipset cooler after prolonged operation increased to 46–48 C.
Results
ASUS P8Z77-M Pro interesting for those who are not ready to settle for a budget “runabout” car. The board is well made, has a good power reserve and a decent technological arsenal. This is exactly what you would expect from a device with a $145 price tag.
The manufacturer tried not to make compromises to please different categories of users, but rather intended to maintain a certain balance so that the model would come into the view of buyers who make a rational choice. In such a case, the experience of the developers is very important, otherwise the product can very easily turn out to be “neither fish nor fowl.” ASUS P8Z77-M Pro managed to avoid this fate. The board has its own personality and is an attractive option for those who are assembling a productive system in an mATX case, but the capabilities of a cult in this form factor ASUS Maximus V GENE seem clearly redundant, and there is no great desire to overpay for unused functions.
Liked
Good equipment and functionality
High-quality power subsystem
Wide possibilities for organizing a cooling system
Support SLI modes and CrossFireX
Did not like
- Hardly ever
The testing device was provided by MTI, www.distri.mti.ua
Configuration test bench
| CPU | Intel Core [email protected] GHz | Intel, www.intel.ua |
| Cooler | Thermalright Archon Rev.A | "1-Incom", www.1-incom.com.ua |
| RAM | Team Xtreem TXD38192M2133HC9KDC-L (2x4 GB DDR3-2133) | DC-Link, www.dclink.com.ua |
| Storage device | Intel SSD 520 (SSDSC2CW240A3, 240 GB) | Intel, www.intel.ua |
| power unit | Thermaltake Toughpower Grand TPG-1200M (1200 W) | Thermaltake, www.thermaltakeusa.com |
| Chipset cooling | Radiator | |
| Cooling VRM | Radiator | |
| Embedded video | integrated into Intel processor | |
| PCI | — | |
| PCI Express x4 | — | |
| PCI Express x1 | 1 | |
| Graphic interface | 2xPCI-E x16 3.0(x16, x8+x8) + 1xPCI-E x16 2.0(x4) | |
| DIMM | 4xDDR3 | |
| IDE (Parallel ATA) (chipset/additional controller) | — | |
| Serial ATA (chipset/additional controller) | 4/- | |
| SATA Revision 3.0 (chipset/additional controller) | 2/- | |
| Main power connectors | 24+8 | |
| Additional food | — | |
| FAN | 4 | |
| S/PDIF | +(output) | |
| Audio codec | Realtek ALC892 (7.1) | |
| Ethernet | Realtek 8111F (GbE) | |
| SATA | — | |
| SATA Revision 3.0 | ASMedia ASM1061 | |
| PATA | — | |
| IEEE 1394 (FireWire) | — | |
| USB 3.0 | ASMedia 1042 | |
| LAN | 1 | |
| eSATA Rev. 2.0 | — | |
| eSATA Rev. 3.0 | 2 | |
| Audio | 6 | |
| S/PDIF-Out (Coaxial/Optical) | -/+ | |
| Thunderbolt | — | |
| Monitor Outputs | 1xD-Sub, 1xDVI-D and 1xHDMI | |
| USB 1.1/2.0 | 2/3(6 ports)/- | |
| USB 3.0 | 4/1(2 ports)/- | |
| IEEE 1394 (FireWire) | — | |
| COM | -/1/- | |
| Game/MIDI | — | |
| LPT | — | |
| IDE | — | |
| SATA interface/power supply, devices | 4/- | |
| Form factor | microATX, 244x244 mm | |
| Supports two or more video cards | LucidLogix Virtu MVP, AMD Quad-GPU CrossFireX/3-Way CrossFireX and nVidia Quad-GPU SLI | |
| RAID support | 0, 1, 5, 10, Intel Smart Response Technology, Intel Rapid Start Technology and Intel Smart Connect Technology | |
| Wi-Fi adapter | — | |
| UEFI support | + | |
| Miscellaneous | Second generation intelligent chips with DIGI+ power supply system (6-phase for CPU, 2-phase for iGPU); one PS/2 port for keyboard or mouse; TPM module connector; SLI bridge included |
A motherboard of compact dimensions with a full set of all the functions required today is this. Although this solution is based on a rather outdated platform based on LGA 1155, the capabilities are quite sufficient to create a compact productive computer system.
Who was this product intended for? Technological nuances
This board is perfect for those cases when it is necessary to assemble a system with the maximum level of performance in a compact computer case. At the same time, the reliability of such a PC will not cause any complaints. Although this motherboard is made in a miniature MicroATIx format, it is based on the most functional set of system logic that allows flexible setup parameters.
All elements installed on the board have only passive cooling. But at the same time, it is possible to install 4 coolers at once in such a computing system. One of them is designed for mounting on a central processing unit, and the other three are for mounting on a chassis. Therefore, there should not be any problems with cooling during overclocking (this is precisely the purpose for which this product was developed) in this situation.
Delivery contents
It is equipped as follows:
- Motherboard.
- Cables for connecting SATA drives.
- An impressive set of documentation (including a warranty card).
- Metal plug for rear panel system unit.
- CD with specialized software and drivers.
All this is quite enough to assemble a PC, and in this case there is no particular need to buy any additional elements.
Arrangement of components on the printed circuit board
244 mm by 244 mm - exactly like that dimensions has A review of the appearance of this component indicates the presence of three systems at once passive cooling based on aluminum radiators. Two of them are used to remove excess heat from the CPU. The third cools the system logic set. The processor socket is located in the center of the upper part of the board.
To the left and above it are the previously mentioned cooling systems for the CPU power supplies. On the right are the slots for installing RAM. Even further in this direction is the power connector. Below the socket are expansion slots for installing additional external graphics adapters and controllers. To the right of the expansion slots are the SATA drive ports. Due to the correct placement of expansion slots and random access memory, as well as SATA drive ports, there should be no problems with installing any such component in this case.
Chipset
As it is not difficult to understand from the name, ASUS P8Z77-M is based on the most advanced set of system logic for the LGA 1155-Z77 computing platform. This product consists of only one chip - south bridge, which provides processing of information from expansion slots and storage ports. which was found in earlier products of this manufacturer, in this case is transferred to CPU. It provides interaction with peripheral devices and RAM.
Socket and semiconductor chips
As noted earlier, the P8Z77-M is equipped with an LGA 1155 socket. This processor socket can accommodate 2nd and, of course, 3rd generation Kor chips. As a result, in this case, you can install “Cor Ai7”, “Cor Ai5”, “Cor Ai3”, “Pentium” and “Celeron” chips, which belong to the previously mentioned generations of semiconductor crystals.
Considering that the system logic set in this case is Z77, it is most optimal to use central processing units with an unlocked multiplier (they have the letter “K” at the end of their designation). This will allow you to maximize the potential of such a computer system.
Interface kit
The ASUS P8Z77-M PRO motherboard has the following ports for connecting external devices:
Expansion slots
We note a solid set of expansion slots in the ASUS P8Z77-M PRO. A review of the technical specifications of this solution only indicates the absence of a PCI connector. But this standard is currently outdated morally and physically. Such boards generally remain only after upgrading an outdated computer system and are automatically transferred to a new PC when upgrading. In such a situation (if you cannot do without such a PCI controller), it is better to purchase a full-size ATIX board with such a connector. But you need to understand that the presence of such a component in a personal computer will reduce its performance. So there is nothing wrong with the absence of such an expansion slot, and in practice such a board can be replaced with a similar USB adapter, for example.
There are 4 slots for RAM on this computer component. All DDR3 standard modules are supported. The maximum size of RAM that this model of motherboard can address is 32 GB (4 modules of 8 GB each). To install an additional internal controller in the PC, there is only one PCI-Express 1X connector. But in this case, three PCI-Express 16X slots are allocated for installing graphics adapters. In this case, you will have to make a choice. If you install an advanced video card in the first slot, then it will no longer be possible to install a controller in the PCI-Express 1X slot. Still miniature sizes this decision In such a situation, certain restrictions are imposed.
"BIOS" and more
The “BIOS” of this computer accessory has an impressive list of parameters, and this allows for flexible configuration of the computer system during CPU overclocking. As a result, you can get a solid performance boost. Also available on this UEFI board. This software component has similar functionality, but unlike BIOS, its interface is Russified.
The motherboard discussed in this review is representative of the mid-price range and is intended for assembling productive and reliable work or home PCs with a wide range of tasks. The motherboard is made in the mATX form factor and is based on the Intel Z77 Express system logic set, thanks to the latter it provides the ability to overclock the processor with an unlocked multiplier. Let's get straight to the review motherboard and carefully its capabilities.
ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard specification:
|
Manufacturer |
|
|
Intel Z77 Express |
|
|
CPU socket |
|
|
Supported processors |
Intel Core i7/Core i5/Core i3 second and third generations |
|
Memory used |
DDR3 2400(O.C.)/2200(O.C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866(O.C.)/1800(O.C.)/1600/1333/1066 MHz |
|
Memory support |
4 x DDR3 DIMM dual channel architecture up to 32 GB |
|
Expansion slots |
1 x PCI Express x16 3.0/2.0 |
|
Disk subsystem |
Intel H77 chipset supports: |
|
Sound subsystem |
Realtek ALC887, 8-channel High-Definition Audio codec with optical output S/PDIF |
|
LAN support |
Realtek 8111F Gigabit Network Controller |
|
24-pin ATX power connector |
|
|
Fan connectors |
1 x for CPU cooler |
|
External I/O ports |
1 x PS/2 |
|
Internal I/O ports |
2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s 1 x COM |
|
64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM 2.0, ACPI v2.0a, SM BIOS 2.5, |
|
|
Proprietary technologies |
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution |
|
Equipment |
Instructions and Guide SATA 6 Gbps cable SATA 3 Gbps cable |
|
Form factor Dimensions, mm |
mATX |
|
Products webpage |
Fresh BIOS version and drivers can be downloaded from the support page |
The packaging of the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard has the usual dark design color scheme. On the front of the package is the name of the motherboard, and the lower part is occupied by icons indicating the technologies used.
The back of the box is more informative. Here you can see a photo of the motherboard and its specifications, as well as a description of the most interesting technologies from the point of view of the marketing department.
The ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard package is sufficient for assembling the system. In box with motherboard can be found:
DVD with software and drivers;
user manual on English language And brief instructions on installation;
two Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables;
ASUS Q-Connector kit;
plug on back panel housings.
The ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is made in the mATX form factor and has dimensions of 244 x 244 mm. The layout is made quite competently, all connectors are in accessible places. The only exception is some crowding of USB 3.0, ATX and SATA connectors. But if you follow a certain connection sequence, then this arrangement of connections will not cause any particular inconvenience. The positive point is that the RAM slots do not have latches on the bottom side; this will make it much easier to replace or add RAM modules when a video adapter is installed. There are 8 mounting holes on the board, but the lower right corner is left without a hole, which is the reason for its “sagging”, so you need to connect to the ports located here more carefully.
The cooling system is passive and includes two stylized radiators: one removes heat from the heating elements of the processor power converter, and the second cools the PCH Intel Z77 Express. During testing, a temperature of 42.2°C was recorded on the radiator, which is a typical indicator among similar boards.
The disk subsystem of the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is implemented exclusively by the Intel Z77 Express system logic set. On the board you can find four SATA 3 Gb/s ports and two SATA 6 Gb/s ports. Support available RAID arrays levels 0, 1, 5 and 10.
In addition to the ports located on the interface panel, the following connection headers are present on the motherboard:
3 x USB 2.0 (up to 6 additional ports);
1 x USB 3.0 (up to 2 additional ports);
In total, the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard has ten USB 2.0 ports and four USB 3.0 ports, which is quite enough to connect various devices.
There are four connectors on the motherboard for installing expansion cards:
1 x PCI Express x16 3.0/2.0;
1 x PCI Express x16 2.0 (x4);
1 x PCI Express x1;
It is possible to install two video adapters in AMD mode CrossFireX, but due to the low bandwidth a second PEG connector, this will not be the most rational solution. Note the presence of a PCI slot, which can still be useful for installing outdated expansion cards.
The motherboard in question has four 240-pin DIMM connectors of dual-channel architecture for working with DDR3 memory. The maximum total memory capacity can reach 32 GB when installing four 8 GB modules. The maximum RAM frequency is 2400 MHz in overclocking mode. To organize memory operation in dual-channel mode, it is necessary to fill the slots of the same color.
As on most ASUS motherboards, there is a “MemOK!” button near the memory slots, which will be useful if there are errors in the system memory.
The processor power supply voltage converter is made according to a 4+1+1 phase scheme. One phase is used to power the “system agent” and the video core, and the remaining four are used to power the processor cores. The ASP1102 chip manufactured by CHiL Semiconductor Corp. is traditionally used as a PWM controller. Cooling of the power supply is improved through the use of a stylized heatsink with fairly large fins. Power is supplied to the processor through an 8-pin EPS12V connector, which is designed to handle more current than a typical 4-pin ATX12V connector.
The ASMedia ASM1442 chip is responsible for switching the HDMI and DVI video outputs.
The motherboard's audio subsystem is based on the Realtek ALC887 8-channel audio HDA codec, and for connecting to local network Realtek 8111F gigabit network controller is used. Such controllers are installed by most motherboard manufacturers, which guarantees the absence of any problems with drivers.
Since the Intel Z77 Express chipset does not support PCI buses, then to implement it the manufacturer added a PCI Express to PCI bridge. The ASMedia ASM1083 chip acts as such a bridge.
The Nuvoton NCT67790 chip controls the PS/2 and COM ports, the operation of system fans and provides temperature monitoring.
The interface panel of the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard has the following ports:
1 x PS/2 for mouse or keyboard;
optical S/PDIF;
RJ45 connector for network connections;
three 3.5 mm audio jacks.
Noteworthy is the presence of the most common monitor connectors; there are both analog D-Sub and two types of digital video outputs. But the presence of only three audio connectors can cause some inconvenience when connecting multi-channel speakers.
The ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard has four fan connectors. One four-pin connector is for connecting a processor fan, and the rest are for connecting case fans.
UEFI BIOS
On the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard, as on many other solutions based on the system Intel logic 7x Express, uses UEFI with a graphical interface as a preloader.
Going to the “AI Tweaker” section with settings for overclocking and optimizing the system, you can note a fairly long list of options responsible for the frequency, supply voltage and even the operating mode of the processor power converter, and this despite the fact that the ASUS P8Z77-M is not positioned as solution designed for overclocking.
The settings required for overclocking are summarized in the table:
|
Parameter |
Menu name |
Range |
|
|
Processor technologies |
C1E, Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor, Virtualization Technology, |
||
|
System bus frequency |
BLCK/PCIE Frequency |
80 – 300 MHz |
|
|
RAM frequency |
800, 1067, 1334, 1601, 1868, 2135, 2402 |
||
|
RAM Latency |
DRAM Timing Control |
CAS Latency, RAS to CAS, RAS PRE, RAS ACT, COMMAND Mode, RAS to RAS, REF, Cycle, DRAM Refresh, WRITE Recovery, READ to PRE, FOUR ACT WIN, WRITE to READ, CKE Minimum, CAS Write, RTL ( CHA), RTL (CHB), tWRDR, tRWDR, tRWSR, tRR, tRRSR, tWW(DD), tWW(DR), tWWSR |
|
|
Power limitation during long acceleration |
Long Duration Power Limit |
||
|
Duration of long acceleration |
Long Duration Maintained |
||
|
Power limitation during short-term acceleration |
Short Duration Power Limit |
||
|
Main current limit |
Primary Plane Current Limit |
0.125 – 1023.875 V |
|
|
Secondary current limit |
Secondary Plane Current Limit |
0.125 – 1023.875 V |
|
|
Fixed power circuit frequency |
CPU Fixed Frequency |
200 – 350 kHz |
|
|
CPU supply voltage |
CPU Manual Voltage |
||
|
Voltage on memory modules, V |
1.185 – 2.135 V |
||
|
0.61 – 1.560 V |
|||
|
Northbridge voltage |
0.8 – 1.685 V |
The memory frequency multiplier allows you to set the frequency from 800 MHz to 2400 MHz.
You can also configure timings (delays) and sub-timings (minor delays) of RAM “manually” in the “DRAM TimingControl” section.
There is also a separate monitoring section where you can monitor:
temperature of the motherboard and processor;
rotation speed of processor and case fans;
processor core voltage;
voltage on the power lines +12V, +5V and +3.3V.
The section is very informative, the only thing missing is the RAM supply voltage readings.
In addition, in this section you can enable the automatic control function of the CPU Q-Fan Control processor cooler and case fans, which have different intensity modes.
Separately, we note the ability to select Russian in the language settings.
Utilities
Overclocking the system and changing the supply voltage of various components can be done using the ASUS TurboV EVO utility.
An interesting feature, characteristic mainly of ASUS motherboards, is the ability to configure the operating mode of the processor power regulator.
Overclocking capabilities
Overclocking capabilities were tested using Intel processor Core i5-2500K with unlocked multiplier.
When using the automatic overclocking function, a fairly good result was achieved - 4.3 GHz.
IN manual mode the result was slightly higher and amounted to 4.4 GHz.
As you can see, despite its modest dimensions, the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is quite capable of unleashing the potential of a CPU with an unlocked multiplier.
Testing
The following equipment was used to test the capabilities of motherboards:
|
CPU |
Intel Core i5-2500K (LGA1155, 3.3 GHz, L3 6 MB) |
|
Scythe Kama Angle Rev.B |
|
|
RAM |
2x DDR3-2000 1024 MB Kingston HyperX KHX16000D3T1K3/3GX |
|
Video card |
MSI R4850-2D1G-OC (Radeon HD 4850, 1 GB GDDR3, PCIe 2.0) |
|
HDD |
Seagate Barracuda 7200.12 ST3500418AS, 500 GB, SATA-300, NCQ |
|
Optical drive |
ASUS DRW-1814BLT SATA |
|
power unit |
Seasonic SS-650JT Active PFC (650 W, 120 mm fan) |
|
CODEGEN M603 MidiTower (2x 120 mm in/out fans) |
Test results:
The performance level of the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is the same as that of other solutions, which indicates high level board performance and good BIOS optimization.
Audio path testing based on Realtek codec ALC892
Overall results (RightMark Audio Analyzer)
16-bit, 44.1 kHz
The audio subsystem received average rating"Very good". This means that she will get enough good quality sound without purchasing a discrete sound card.
conclusions
The motherboard is a balanced solution, made in mATX format, which is distinguished by a competent arrangement of elements and high quality manufacturing. We can recommend this board to users who want to get an up-to-date motherboard based on an older set of system logic and equipped with all the connectors necessary for a modern user, which will work for a long time and stably. At the same time, there is a desire to minimize the space occupied by the system unit, as well as experiment with overclocking. As for the cost of the product, at the time of writing the review, it was approximately 100 USD, which is completely justified, and the motherboard deservedly receives a medal for its excellent price/feature ratio.
Alexander KornienkoWe express our gratitude to the companyMTI , official distributor of productsASUS , for the motherboard provided for testing.
We express our gratitude to the companies Intel , Kingston , MSI And SeaSonic for the equipment provided for the test bench.
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ASUS P8Z77-M today is a compact motherboard that has a set of all the necessary functions. This solution is based on a somewhat outdated platform based on the LGA 1155 socket.
However, its capabilities will be quite sufficient to create a compact, productive computer system. Who was this product intended for?
ASUS P8Z77-M: technical features
First of all, it should be noted that this motherboard is perfect for those cases when it is necessary to assemble a system that demonstrates the maximum level of performance in one compact case. The reliability of such a computer will not cause any complaints. The ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is made in a miniature MicroATIx format. However, it is based on the most functional set of system logic. This allows for the most flexible configuration of all parameters. All elements installed on the board have only passive cooling. However, it is possible to install four coolers at once in such a computing system. One of them is intended directly for installation in the central processing unit, and the other three are for installation on the case. For this reason, no problems with cooling during overclocking should arise in this situation.
ASUS P8Z77-M: scope of delivery
The ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is equipped as follows. In the box with the device, the user will be able to find the motherboard itself, cords for connecting SATA drives, a metal plug for the rear panel of the system unit, and a disk with drivers and software. All this should be quite enough for assembly personal computer. In this case, there is no need to purchase any additional elements.
ASUS P8Z77-M: location of components on printed circuit board
ASUS P8Z77-M has overall dimensions of 244 by 244 mm. If we consider appearance of this component, we can conclude that the board contains three passive cooling systems, built on the basis of aluminum radiators. Two of these systems are used to remove excess heat from the central processing unit's power supply. The third cooling system is used to cool the south bridge of the system logic set. The processor socket is located in the center of the upper part of the board. To the left and above it are the previously mentioned cooling systems for the processor power supplies. WITH right side Slots have been provided for installing RAM sticks. Further in this direction is the power supply connector. A little lower above the socket there are expansion slots that can be used to install additional external controllers and graphics adapters. On the right side of the expansion slots there are ports for installing SATA drives. There should be no problems installing any component of this kind, since the expansion and RAM slots are located correctly.
ASUS P8Z77-M: chipset
As you can guess from the name, the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is built on the basis of an advanced system logic set designed for the LGA 1155-Z77 computing platform. This product consists of only one chip, namely the south bridge, which is responsible for processing information from storage ports and expansion slots. In this case, the north bridge, which could be found in earlier products of this company, was transferred to the CPU. The North Bridge provides interaction with RAM and peripheral devices.
ASUS P8Z77-M: socket and semiconductor chips
As noted earlier, the ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is equipped with an LGA 1155 socket. This processor socket can accommodate 2nd and 3rd generation Core chips. As a result, Core i7, Core i5, Core i3, Celeron and Pentium, which belong to the above generations of semiconductor crystals, can be installed in the socket. Considering that the system logic set in this case is Z77, it would be optimal to use a CPU with an unlocked multiplier. At the end of the designation, such devices have the letter “K”. This will make it possible to maximize the potential of the computer system.
ASUS P8Z77-M: set of interfaces
The ASUS P8Z77-M motherboard is equipped with the following ports for connecting external devices: one PS/2 port for connecting a keyboard and mouse, six USB ports, four of which have the 3.0 specification and two 2.0. Graphics ports on the motherboard include HDMI, DVI and D-Sub ports. When connecting a monitor to these ports, only the graphics adapter integrated into the central processing unit will be used during operation. To connect external drives, the board has two eSATA ports. The ASUS P8Z77-M also has a set of sound card inputs and outputs.
ASUS P8Z77-M: expansion slots
It is worth noting that ASUS P8Z77-M PRO has a fairly large set of expansion slots. In the review of the technical specifications of this extension, you can notice the complete absence of a PCI connector. However this standard today can already be considered obsolete. Such boards today remain mostly only after upgrading an outdated computer system and are transferred to a new PC when upgrading. In this situation, it would still be better to use a full-size ATIx board with this connector. However, it is worth understanding that the presence of this component in a PC can significantly reduce the level of performance. So there is nothing to worry about in the absence of such an expansion slot. In practice, it can be replaced by a similar USB adapter. This computer component has four RAM slots. All DDR3 standard strips are supported. Maximum amount of RAM that can be addressed this model motherboard is 32 GB. The ASUS P8Z77-M PRO motherboard has only one PCI Express 1X connector for installing an additional internal controller in the PC. In this case, three PCI Express 16X slots are allocated for installing graphics adapters. In this case, you can make a choice. If you install an advanced video card in the first slot, then it will no longer be possible to install a controller in the PCI-Express 1X slot. It is worth noting that the miniature dimensions of the motherboard in this case impose certain restrictions.
ASUS P8Z77-M PRO: BIOS
The BIOS of this computer accessory includes many different parameters. This allows flexible configuration of the computer system during overclocking of the central processing unit. Ultimately, this allows for a significant increase in productivity. This board also has UEFI. This is a special software component with similar functionality, but unlike BIOS, its interface is Russified.
ASUS P8Z77-M PRO: reviews
The ASUS P8Z77-M PRO board turned out to be an almost flawless solution. It has truly excellent characteristics and a large set of interfaces. It is also worth noting that the board turned out to be quite miniature. At the same time, the cost for a computer component of this level turned out to be very affordable. There is only one drawback: when installing a powerful graphics accelerator in the PCI-Express 1X slot, it will not be possible to install an additional controller. However, the level of functionality of this motherboard is quite high, so the lack of such an opportunity in this case is not critical.
ASUS P8Z77-M PRO: cost and relevance
In the middle of last year, the ASUS P8Z77-M PRO motherboard could be purchased for $110. Today it is quite problematic to find such motherboards on sale. However, their cost can range from 50 to 100 dollars. Everything will depend on the state of the device. There is little point in buying such a board to create a new one computing system. However, there are also more recent and advanced platforms from this manufacturer, which today are recommended to pay attention to when assembling a new PC.
Our readers could already see from the example of the Gigabyte G1.Sniper M3 motherboard that functionality does not depend much on dimensions. On the contrary, it becomes possible to assemble a system of more compact dimensions, without limiting yourself in anything. This means that the myth that mATX motherboards are always budget solutions for office typewriters. Now almost every manufacturer has one or more small models in their lineup that are in no way inferior to full-format ATX solutions.
Until recently, larger boards had the advantage of supporting multi-graphics technologies such as SLI and CrossFire. The first to blur the line between the two standards (mATX and ATX) in terms of functionality started ASUS company, releasing several gaming-oriented models in a special ROG (Republic Of Gamers) line with the GENE prefix.
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