A socket AM3+ motherboard made it’s way to goldfries.com HQ ………. 😀
The Board
Standard ATX motherboard layout.
4x forward facing SATA 6Gb/s ports.
The 12V CPU Connector socket is too close to the heatsink for my preference.
CrossfireX support.
Various other ports, I like it that they’re covered. Makes it easier to align the wire during assembly.
A wealth of other output at the back, particularly the wealth of USB ports (including USB 3.0) and E-SATA ports.
Full details of the board at the official product page.
Software
The Asus AI Suite II is a very nice software, I must admit I never liked Asus’ software so far and this is the first time I’m impressed with one.
Auto-Tuning got my unit to 3.9ghz in far less time that I would do the usual BIOS-based tuning. For further overclocking, it’s just a matter of how I fine-tune from there.
Fine-tune doesn’t mean I have to visit the BIOS either, the software allows me to fine-tune via the GUI.
There’s also the EPU that looks like a simplified way of choosing how I want the computer to be (looks like some RPG character setting)
Then there’s the Digi+ VRM which I have absolutely no idea how to make use of since I’m NOT THAT technical.
Lastly, fan control. 😀 For someone picky on noise, it’s a plus point for me.
Conclusion
Good board with good software. Brings more value (and heat, and in some cases…….noise) to my system by overclocking the processor.
I was impressed not only by that 3.3ghz to 3.9ghz jump, I’m also impressed that it’s not a LOUSY overclock. The overclocked state of the processor not only managed to work flawlessly on folding@home but it even passed wPrime v1.55 1024M stability test!
Admittedly, I’m probably more impressed by the software but logically speaking, the software works with the hardware. 😀 Good stuff for a board that retails at around RM 465 in the market.
There is a non-EVO version, bear in mind the EVO version has more USB ports, Firewire port, E-SATA, better audio chip and more features, like the Digi+ VRM. 🙂
is it available in local market already?? cant find anyone selling in lyn garage sale..
Should be coming in soon, after all this board is from ASUS Malaysia. 🙂
Hey goldfreis, im from LYN, bumped upon your website at ur siggy hehe
Im thinking to buy the M5A99X EVO from a forumer in LYN, u think its a good buy? Currently im using a 3.5year old M4A77TD PRO Motherboard.. And im interested in overclocking.