MSI has replenished the lines of companies with a few series of motherboards based on a fresh Intel Z97 chipset. MSI Z97 Overclocking series is a peculiar one, ready to marvel by high scores. It is introduced by three hi-end models: MSI Z97 MPower, MSI Z97 XPower AC and MSI Z97 MPower MAX AC. In keeping with the idea, the triple offers high functionality, combined with an unprecedented stability and a striking design.



Being the basis for an overclocking system, these motherboards ensure a long-lasting durability in extreme loading conditions, primarily due to the premium hardware base. Hence, the models are equipped with Military Class 4 components with Guard-Pro core, which provides for the highest protection against high temperatures, humidity, electromagnetic distortions, and electrostatic discharge. Besides, Guard-Pro features MSI ECO Power technology that disables power on idle controllers for a more power-efficient operation.


To continue, it should be noted that all …

Gigabyte adds another mini-PC to its small-sized solutions. This time the company introduces a low-budget Brix GB-Bace-3160 model targeting entry-level users (home/office use). It might be employed to fulfill such routine tasks as file editing, web surfing & multimedia boot. The model boasts a strict all-black design, featuring 114.4x107.6x56.1 mm case dimensions.



Gigabyte Brix GB-Bace-3160 accommodates a 4-core Intel Celeron J3160 CPU (14 nm) that operates at 1.6/2.24 GHz frequency; it is accompanied by an integrated Intel HD Graphics 400 graphics core (320-700 MHz frequency). The PCB houses only a single SO-DIMM slot for the installation of DRR3L-1600 memory.


Storage subsystem is introduced by a single SATA III (6 Gb/sec) port, intended for the incorporation of 2.5-inch SSD/HDD. Audio subsystem is supported by Realtek ALC255 controller. Furthermore, this mini-PC comes with a 4-watt power supply unit.


Network facilities are realized by means of gigabit LAN port …

Gigabyte has developed a video card, based on Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 adapter, which provides for freedom in choosing the liquid cooling system with an open contour. The GeForce GTX 1080 Xtreme Gaming WaterForce WB 8G comes with a pre-installed water block that entirely covers the frontal part, enhancing the cooling effect on the GPU, power elements as well as memory chips. In order to achieve the maximal heat dissipation performance, the user just needs to connect the card to the liquid cooler contour.



Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1080 Xtreme Gaming WaterForce WB 8G takes Nvidia GP104-400 GPU as the basis (Pascal micro-architecture). The GPU consists of 2560 CUDA, 160 TMUs & 64 ROPs. The model is able to operate in two modes: OC and Gaming. In OC mode the core runs at 1784/1936 MHz frequency (basic/dynamic), while in Gaming mode the showings are more modest: 1759/1898 MHz frequency.


To continue, the GPU is accompanied by 8 GB of GDDR5X memory (256-bit interface) which operates at …