What is the difference between motherboard chipsets. Motherboards for gaming computers. Integrated network card

All other components are connected to the motherboard; the service life and stability of the entire computer depend on it. In addition, it should allow you to connect all the necessary devices and provide the opportunity to improve your computer in the future.

Some of the best motherboards are made by ASUS, but they are also the most expensive. Today, MSI motherboards are the best in terms of price/quality ratio, and I will recommend them first. As more budget option You can consider motherboards from ASRock and Gigabyte, they also have successful models. Gaming motherboards have better sound and a network card.

For Intel processors on socket 1151 v2

Best option:
MSI B360M MORTAR motherboard

Or a gaming motherboard: MSI B360 GAMING PRO CARBON
MSI B360 GAMING PRO CARBON motherboard

Or an analogue: MSI Z370 KRAIT GAMING
MSI Z370 KRAIT GAMING motherboard

For AMD processors on socket AM4

Best option: Gigabyte B450 AORUS M
Gigabyte B450 AORUS M motherboard

Or full size: Gigabyte B450 AORUS PRO
Gigabyte B450 AORUS PRO motherboard

2. Basics of choosing the right motherboard

You should not install a powerful processor on the cheapest motherboard, as the motherboard will not withstand heavy load for a long time. And vice versa, the weakest processor does not need an expensive motherboard, since it is money thrown away.

The motherboard must be selected after all the others have been selected, since it determines what class the motherboard should be and what connectors it should have for connecting the selected components.

Each motherboard has its own processor that controls all the devices connected to it and is called a chipset. The functionality of the motherboard depends on the chipset and is selected depending on the purpose of the computer.

3.1. Chipset developers

Chipsets for modern motherboards are developed by two companies: Intel and AMD.

If you chose an Intel processor, then the motherboard must be on an Intel chipset, if AMD - on an AMD chipset.

3.2. Intel chipsets

The main modern Intel chipsets include the following:

• B250/H270 – for office, multimedia and gaming PCs
• Q270 – for the corporate sector
• Z270 – for powerful gaming and professional PCs
• X99/X299 – for very powerful professional PCs

They are being replaced by promising chipsets with support for 8th generation processors:

• H310 – for office PCs
• B360/H370 – for multimedia and gaming PCs
• Q370 – for the corporate sector
• Z370 – for powerful gaming and professional PCs

For most computers, motherboards with B250/H270 and B360/H370 chipsets are suitable. H chipsets have more PCI-E lanes than B chipsets, which is only important when installing more than two video cards or several ultra-fast PCI-E SSDs. So for the average user there is no difference between them. Chipsets Q differ from B only in support special functions security and remote control, which is used only in the corporate sector.

Z chipsets have even more PCI-E lanes than H chipsets, allow overclocking of processors with the “K” index, support memory with frequencies above 2400 MHz and combining from 2 to 5 disks in RAID array, which is not available on other chipsets. They are more suitable for powerful gaming and professional PCs.

Motherboards based on X99/X299 chipsets are needed only for heavy-duty and expensive professional PCs with processors on sockets 2011-3/2066, respectively (we'll talk about this below).

3.3. AMD chipsets

The main modern AMD chipsets include the following.

• A320 – for office and multimedia PCs
• B350 – for gaming and professional PCs
• X370 – for enthusiasts
• X399 – for very powerful professional PCs

The A320 chipset does not have the ability to overclock the processor, while the B350 has such functionality. The X370 is also equipped with a large number of PCI-E lanes for installing multiple video cards. Well, X399 is designed for professional processors on the TR4 socket.

3.4. How do chipsets differ?

Chipsets have a lot of differences, but we are only interested in their conditional division by purpose in order to select a motherboard that matches the purpose of the computer.

We are not interested in the remaining parameters of the chipsets, since we will focus on the parameters of a specific motherboard. After choosing a chipset to suit your needs, you can start choosing a motherboard based on its characteristics and connectors.

4. Motherboard manufacturers

Best motherboards in price range above average are produced by ASUS, but they are also the most expensive. Motherboards entry level this company pays less attention and in this case it is not worth overpaying for the brand.

MSI motherboards across the entire price range have a good price/quality ratio.

As a more economical option, you can consider motherboards from Gigabyte and ASRock (a subsidiary of ASUS); they have a more loyal pricing policy and they also have successful models.

It is also worth noting that Intel itself produces motherboards based on its chipsets. These motherboards have consistent quality, but low functionality and a higher price. They are in demand mainly in the corporate sector.

motherboards other manufacturers are not so popular and have more limited the lineup and I don’t think it’s advisable to purchase them.

5. Motherboard form factor

The form factor is the physical size of the motherboard. The main form factors of motherboards are: ATX, MicroATX (mATX) and Mini-ITX.

ATX(305×244 mm) – full-size format of the motherboard, is optimal for a desktop computer, has the most large quantity slots, installed in ATX cases.

MicroATX(244x244 mm) – a smaller motherboard format, has fewer slots, can be installed in both full-size (ATX) cases and more compact cases (mATX).

Mini-ITX(170x170 mm) – ultra-compact motherboards for assembling very small PCs in appropriate cases. It should be taken into account that such systems have a number of restrictions on the size of components and cooling.

There are other less common motherboard form factors.

Processor socket is a connector for connecting the processor to motherboard. The motherboard must have the same socket as the processor.

Processor sockets are constantly undergoing changes and new modifications appear from year to year. I recommend purchasing a processor and motherboard with the most modern socket. This will ensure that both the processor and motherboard can be replaced in the next few years.

6.1. Intel processor sockets

• Obsolete: 478, 775, 1155, 1156, 2011
• Obsolete: 1150, 2011-3
• The most modern: 1151, 1151-v2, 2066

6.2. AMD processor sockets

• Obsolete: AM1, AM2, AM3, FM1, FM2
• Obsolete: AM3+, FM2+
• The most modern: AM4, TR4

Compact motherboards often have 2 slots for installing memory modules. Large ATX boards are usually equipped with 4 memory slots. Free slots may be needed if you plan to add memory in the future.

8. Memory type and frequency supported

Modern motherboards support DDR4 memory. Inexpensive motherboards are designed for a lower maximum memory frequency (2400, 2666 MHz). Mid-range and high-end motherboards can support higher frequency memory (3400-3600 MHz).

However, memory with a frequency of 3000 MHz and higher is significantly more expensive, but does not provide a noticeable performance increase (especially in games). In addition, there are more problems with such memory; the processor may work with it less stably. Therefore, it is advisable to overpay for a motherboard and high-frequency memory only when assembling a very powerful professional PC.

Today, the most optimal price/performance ratio is DDR4 memory with a frequency of 2400 MHz, which is supported by modern motherboards.

9. Connectors for installing video cards

Modern motherboards have a connector PCI Express(PCI-E x16) latest version 3.0 for installing video cards.

If your motherboard has several of these connectors, you can install multiple video cards to improve gaming performance. But in most cases, installing one more powerful video card is a better solution.

Also, free PCI-E x16 slots can be used to install other expansion cards with a PCI-E x4 or x1 slot (for example, a fast SSD or sound card).

10. Slots for expansion cards

Slots for expansion cards are special connectors for connecting various additional devices, such as: TV tuner, Wi-Fi adapter and etc.

Older motherboards used PCI slots to accommodate expansion cards. This connector may be needed if you have such cards, for example, a professional sound card or TV tuner.

Modern motherboards use PCI-E x1 slots or extra PCI-E x16 slots to install expansion cards. It is desirable that the motherboard have at least 1-2 such connectors that are not overlapped by the video card.

IN modern computer PCI connectors of the old type are not necessary, since you can already purchase any device with a new PCI-E connector.

The motherboard has many internal connectors for connection various devices inside the case.

11.1. SATA connectors

Modern motherboards have universal SATA 3 connectors, which are perfect for connecting hard drives, solid state drives (SSD) and optical drives.

Several of these connectors can be placed in a separate block, forming a combined SATA Express connector.

This connector was previously used to connect fast SSDs, but you can also connect any SATA drives to it.

11.2. M.2 connector

Also, many modern motherboards are equipped with an M.2 connector, which is used primarily for ultra-fast SSDs.

This connector has mounting brackets for installing boards various sizes what needs to be taken into account when choosing an SSD. But now only the most common size 2280 is usually used.

It would also be good if the M.2 connector supports both SATA and PCI-E modes, as well as the NVMe specification for fast SSDs.

11.3. Motherboard power connector

Modern motherboards have a 24-pin power connector.

All power supplies are equipped with a similar connector.

11.4. CPU power connector

The motherboard may have a 4 or 8 pin processor power connector.

If the connector is 8-pin, then it is desirable that the power supply has two 4-pin connectors, which are inserted into it. If the processor is not very powerful, then it can be powered by one 4-pin connector and everything will work, but the voltage drops on it will be higher, especially during overclocking.

11.5. Location of internal connectors

The picture below shows the main internal motherboard connectors that we talked about.

12. Integrated devices

In addition to the chipset and various connectors for connecting components, the motherboard has various integrated devices.

12.1. Integrated graphics card

If you decide that the computer will not be used for games and do not purchase a separate video card, then the motherboard must support processors with a video core and have the appropriate connectors. Motherboards designed for processors with a video core may have VGA, DVI, DisplayPort and HDMI connectors.

It is desirable to have a DVI connector on the motherboard for connecting modern monitors. To connect your TV to your computer, you need an HDMI connector. Please also note that some budget monitors only have a VGA connector, which in this case should also be on the motherboard.

12.2. Integrated sound card

All modern motherboards have an HDA (High Definition Audio) class audio codec. Budget models are equipped with the appropriate audio codecs (ALC8xx, ALC9xx), which, in principle, are sufficient for most users. More expensive gaming motherboards have better codecs (ALC1150, ALC1220) and a headphone amplifier that provide higher sound quality.

Motherboards usually have 3, 5 or 6 3.5mm jacks for connecting audio devices. Optical and sometimes coaxial may also be present digital audio exit.

For connecting speakers of a 2.0 or 2.1 system. 3 audio outputs are quite enough.
If you plan to connect multi-channel speakers, then it is advisable that the motherboard have 5-6 audio connectors. An optical audio output may be required to connect a high-quality audio system.

12.3. Integrated network card

All modern motherboards have a built-in network card with a data transfer rate of 1000 Mbit/s (1 Gb/s) and an RJ-45 connector for connecting to the Internet.

Budget motherboards are equipped with appropriate network cards manufactured by Realtek. More expensive gaming motherboards may have better Intel, Killer network cards, which has a positive effect on ping in online games Oh. But often the operation of online games depends more on the quality of the Internet than on the network card.

It is highly advisable to connect to the Internet through, which will repel network attacks and increase the motherboard’s protection from electrical breakdowns on the part of the provider.

12.4. Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Some motherboards may have built-in Wi-Fi and bluetooth adapter. Such motherboards are more expensive and are used mainly for assembling compact media centers. If you don’t need this functionality now, you can purchase the necessary adapter later if the need arises.

13. External motherboard connectors

Depending on the number of integrated devices and the class of the motherboard, it may have different connectors on the rear panel for connecting external devices.

Description of connectors from top to bottom

• USB 3.0– a connector for connecting fast flash drives and external drives, it is desirable to have at least 4 such connectors.
• PS/2– the old connector for connecting a mouse and keyboard, which is no longer available on all motherboards, is optional, since modern mice and keyboards are connected via USB.
• DVI– connector for connecting a monitor on motherboards with built-in video.
• Wi-Fi antenna connectors– available only on some expensive boards with a Wi-Fi adapter.
• HDMI– connector for connecting a TV on motherboards with built-in video.
• DisplayPort– connector for connecting some monitors.
• BIOS reset button– optional, used when the computer freezes during overclocking.
• eSATA– used for external drives with a similar connector, optional.
• USB 2.0– a connector for connecting a keyboard, mouse, printer and many other devices, 2 such connectors are enough (or USB connectors 3.0). Also, modern motherboards may have USB 3.1 connectors (Type-A, Type-C), which are faster, but still rarely used.
• RJ-45– a connector for connecting to a local network or the Internet is required.
• Optical audio output– for connecting high-quality acoustics (speakers).
• Audio outputs– for connecting audio speakers (2.0-5.1 system).
• Microphone– connection of a microphone or headset is always available.

14. Electronic components

Cheap motherboards use the lowest quality electronic components: transistors, capacitors, chokes, etc. Accordingly, the reliability and service life of such motherboards are the lowest. For example, electrolytic capacitors can swell after 2-3 years of computer operation, which leads to malfunctions and the need for repairs.

Mid- and high-end motherboards can use electronic components that are more High Quality(for example, Japanese solid capacitors). Manufacturers often emphasize this with some slogan: Solid Caps (solid-state capacitors), Military Standard (military standard), Super Alloy Power (reliable power system). These motherboards are more reliable and can last longer.

15. Processor power supply circuit

The power supply circuit of the processor determines how powerful a processor can be installed on a specific motherboard without the risk of overheating and premature failure, as well as power loss when overclocking the processor.

A mid-range motherboard with a 10-phase power supply can handle non-extreme overclocking of a processor with a TDP of up to 120 W. For more voracious stones, it is better to take a motherboard with a 12-16 phase power system.

16. Cooling system

Cheap motherboards either have no heatsinks at all, or have a small heatsink on the chipset and sometimes on the mosfets (transistors) near the processor socket. In principle, if you use such boards for their intended purpose and install the same weak processors on them, then they should not overheat.

On mid- and high-end motherboards, which are equipped with more powerful processors, it is desirable that the radiators were larger.

17. Motherboard firmware

Firmware is the built-in firmware that controls all functions of the motherboard. Many motherboards have already switched from BIOS firmware with a classic text menu to a more modern UEFI with a convenient graphical interface.

In addition, gaming motherboards have a number of advanced features, which distinguishes them from more budget solutions.

18. Equipment

Typically, the motherboard comes with: a user manual, a disk with drivers, a plug for the rear panel of the case and several SATA cables. The complete set of the motherboard can be found on the website of the seller or manufacturer. If you are assembling a new computer, then calculate in advance how many and what kind of cables you need, so that if necessary, you can order them immediately.

Some motherboard models have an extended configuration, which may include many different cables and brackets with connectors. For example, such motherboards from ASUS used to have the word Deluxe in their names, but now they may be some Pro versions. They cost more, but usually all these add-ons remain unclaimed, so it makes more sense to buy a better motherboard for the same money.

19. How to find out the characteristics of the motherboard

All characteristics of the motherboard, such as supported processors and memory, types and number of internal and external connectors, etc. Check the manufacturer's website for the exact model number. There you can also see images of the motherboard, from which you can easily determine the location of the connectors, the quality of the power supply and cooling system. It would also be a good idea to look for reviews of a specific motherboard on the Internet before purchasing.

20. Optimal motherboard

Now you know everything you need about motherboards and can choose the right model yourself. But I will still give you some recommendations.

For office, multimedia or gaming computer mid-class (Core i5 + GTX 1060) an inexpensive motherboard on socket 1151 with an Intel B250/H270 or B360/H370 chipset (for 8th generation processors) is suitable.

For a powerful gaming computer (Core i7 + GTX 1070/1080), it is better to take a motherboard on socket 1151 with a powerful processor power supply based on the Intel B250/H270 or Z270 chipset (for overclocking). For 8th generation processors, you respectively need a motherboard with an Intel B360/H370 or Z370 chipset (for overclocking). If you want to better sound, network card and funds allow, then take a motherboard from the gaming series (Gaming, etc.).

For professional tasks, such as video rendering and other heavy applications, it is better to take a motherboard on socket AM4 for multi-threaded AMD Ryzen processors on the B350/X370 chipset.

Select the format (ATX, mATX), types and number of connectors as needed. Manufacturer - any popular one (ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, ASRock) or based on our recommendations (this is more a matter of taste or budget).

21. Setting up filters in the online store

Thus, you will receive a motherboard with the optimal price/quality/functionality ratio that meets your requirements at the lowest possible cost.

22. Links

MSI H370 GAMING PRO CARBON motherboard
Asus ROG Strix B360-F GAMING motherboard
Gigabyte H370 AORUS GAMING 3 WIFI motherboard

The motherboard is the main link within the system unit computer.

That is why it is very important when purchasing to be able to select from a large assortment of motherboards exactly the one that suits your tasks and satisfies all your requirements. In this article, we will generally look at the main points that you should pay attention to when choosing a motherboard.

For convenience and quick transition, a brief summary is provided:

Motherboard and its main components

In order to better navigate the main components and further visualize for ourselves what we will choose, I suggest that you familiarize yourself with the layout of the motherboard elements using a specific example. For our sample, we took a very original Sapphire Pure Z77K motherboard (original, because Sapphire), which is also aimed at the overclocking market. In fact, for the task of visually examining the main elements of the motherboard, neither the model nor the positioning matters at all. Therefore, let's move on to considering this motherboard:

Click on the picture to enlarge

Here the main components are highlighted with numbers, but some rather specific elements inherent only to overclocking motherboards are also touched upon.

(1) CPU socket- one of the main elements of the motherboard. The processor is installed in the socket and it is very important that CPU socket which it was targeting was compatible with the socket on the motherboard.

Under the number (0) "double" was specified radiator, which is responsible for cooling the elements of the processor power converters, the integrated graphics core and the CPU VTT. Such heatsinks are often found only in motherboards for overclocking. Regular motherboards come without this cooling element.

(2) PCI-Express slots . On printed circuit board This motherboard has 3 PCI-Express X16 version 3.0 slots, these connectors are designed for installing video cards (either one or several in SLI and Cross Fire modes). This also includes the number (3) - it's the same PCI-Express x16 slot, but already more old version 2.0. Between PCI-E X16 slots, numbered (14) posted PCI-E X1 slots. These expansion connectors are designed for installing devices that do not require large bus bandwidth; One X1 line is enough for them. Such devices include TV tuners, audio and network cards, various controllers and many others.

Under the number (4) we have indicated chipset(in this case Intel Z77), which is hidden under the radiator that cools it. The system logic set contains various controllers and is the connecting link between the control of some components and the processor.

(5) Connectors for installation random access memory DDR3. These connectors are painted black and blue for installing memory modules in dual-channel operating mode, which allows them to slightly increase their operating efficiency.

(6) CMOS memory battery. This battery powers the microcircuit CMOS BIOS memory so that it does not lose its settings after turning off the computer.

(8) , (12) 24-pin and 8-pin connectors respectively. 24-pin is the main 24-pin power connector through which most components of the motherboard are powered.

Under the number (9) And (10) connectors are indicated SATA 3 (6 Gb/s) and SATA 2 respectively. They are located on the edge of the motherboard and are made in the style of motherboard connectors for overclocking (connecting devices on the side for open stands). SATA interface used to connect hard drives, SSD drives and drives. In conventional motherboards, they are deployed frontally and shifted closer to the center, which allows them to be conveniently used within the system unit of “non-overclocking” systems.

Under the number (11) a rather specific element was designated, which is found only in motherboards for enthusiasts - this POST code indicator. It also displays the processor temperature, but likes to lie a little.

(13) Back panel motherboard with external connectors. A variety of peripheral devices such as a mouse, keyboard, speakers, headphones, and many others are connected to the connectors on this panel.
Now that we have gone through the layout of the components on the motherboard, we can move on to considering the individual blocks and parameters for choosing a motherboard. Since this article is introductory, everything will be described briefly and discussed much more deeply in separate articles. So, let's go.

Choosing a motherboard manufacturer

The motherboard manufacturer is not a very important factor when choosing. The situation here is absolutely identical as with manufacturer's choice for video card- everyone is good and the question here is rather “religious” - who believes in what. Therefore, you can safely choose from all the “no name” manufacturers such as Asus, Biostar, ASRock, Gigabyte, Intel and MSI. Even the motherboard from the unknown in the motherboard market, Sapphire, which we took to review the main components, is a good example. Perhaps some boards have a not very convenient layout, perhaps some manufacturer’s package is not very extensive, and some may have a box that is not as bright as we would like - but still, all this does not give us the right to single out someone. then one, as an impeccable leader and answer the question: which motherboard is better within the framework of the manufacturer’s assessment.

All motherboards will eventually come with the same chipsets from AMD and Intel, and will be functionally similar. The only thing is that before purchasing, I advise you to review reviews of motherboards and user reviews, so as not to run into a model with unsuccessful cooling or something else. We will not dwell on the choice of motherboard manufacturers for long, but rather move on.

Choosing the right form factor

Initially right choice form factor will save you from many problems in the future. On this moment The most popular form factors of motherboards are ATX and its stripped-down version – Micro-ATX.

The fact that the form factor determines the further expandability of the system is very important. The Micro-ATX form factor usually has fewer PCI and PCI-E expansion slots for video cards and additional devices. Also, often, such motherboards have only two slots for installing memory modules, which significantly limits the expansion of RAM, both quantitatively and in terms of convenience issues. But the main advantage of Micro-ATX lies in the price. Based on the description of these two standards, it can be argued that Micro-ATX is positioned as budget solution for compact office and home systems.

Size is also important, as it follows from the form factor. ATX boards are much larger than their “Micro” brothers, so you should take into account the size of the case in relation to the size of the motherboard.

The form factors and their features will be described in more detail in a separate article.

Choosing a motherboard socket

Once you have decided on the processor, the selection of the motherboard begins. And the first factor of choice should be the socket, which ensures compatibility between the processor and motherboard. That is, if an Intel processor with an LGA 1155 socket was selected, then the motherboard must also have an LGA 1155 socket. A list of supported sockets and processors can be found on the motherboard manufacturer’s website.

You can find out more about modern processor sockets in the article: CPU socket .

Choosing a motherboard chipset

The chipset is the connecting link between the entire system. It is the chipset that largely determines the capabilities of the motherboard. Chipset- this is initially a “set of chips” of system logic, which consists of a north and south bridge, but now this is not so simple.

Today, the latest 7-series chipsets from Intel and the 900-series from AMD are popular, and Nvidia is also joining them, but the range of chipsets there is quite small.

Chipsets of the seventh series of Intel such as Z77, H77, B75 and others have slightly distorted the concept of “chipset”, because they do not consist of several chips, but only of a north bridge. This in no way reduces the functionality of the motherboard, because some of the controllers were simply transferred to the processor. Such controllers include a PCI-Express 3.0 bus controller and a DDR3 memory controller. The North Bridge was given control of USB, SATA, PCI-Express, etc. What is connected to what and on what buses is clearly visible in the block diagram of the Z77 chipset:

Indices Z, H, B - mean the positioning of a particular chipset for different market segments. Z77 was classified as a chipset for overclocking enthusiasts. H77 is a regular mainstream chipset with advanced functionality. B75 is a slightly trimmed H77 in terms of capabilities, but for budget and office systems. There are other letter indices, but we will not dwell on them in detail.

Chipsets from AMD continue the tradition of dual-chip chipsets and the latest 900 series is no exception. Motherboards with this set of system logic are equipped with 990FX, 990X 970 north bridges, as well as SB950 south bridge.

When choosing a northbridge for the motherboard AMD boards one should also build on its capabilities.

The 990FX is a northbridge designed for the enthusiast market. The main feature of the chipset with this northbridge is its support for 42 PCI-Express lanes. Therefore, on the 32 lines allocated for video adapters, you can connect up to 4 video cards in a Cross Fire combination. From this we conclude that only a few users need such capabilities, so the functionality of motherboards with this chipset will be redundant for most users.

990X and 970 are versions with slightly reduced capabilities. The main difference, again, is in the PCI-Express lines. Both of these north bridges support 26 lines, but this is unlikely to be a problem for anyone. It is worth noting that the 970 does not have support for SLI and Cross Fire, as a result of which it will not be of interest to users who plan to combine more than one video card in the system, but due to its reasonable price, the 970 will look very tasty for a wide audience of users limited to one video card.

The capabilities of AMD and Intel chipsets will be discussed in more detail in a separate article.

Memory slots and PCI-Express

The number of connectors for installing memory and PCI-Express expansion slots is an important factor when choosing a motherboard. As we said above, the number of these same connectors is often determined by the form factor. Therefore, if you are counting on seriously and conveniently scaling the amount of RAM, then it is better to take a closer look at motherboards with 4 and 6 slots for installing RAM. This also applies PCI slots-Express: It's stupid to buy a Micro-ATX motherboard if you're counting on installation of three video cards in SLI or Cross Fire.

Also, it is very important to pay attention to the type of RAM that the motherboard supports. Nowadays you can still find motherboards with supported DDR2 memory types on sale. When assembling a new system from scratch, it is better not to go back to the past and take a motherboard with DDR3 memory type.

The version of the PCI-Express bus is not an important factor, so you shouldn't be too keen on PCI-Express 3.0 support. For modern video cards, version 2.0 is sufficient. Yes and backwards compatible No one has canceled the various versions of this interface.

External connectors

The presence of certain connectors on the rear panel of the motherboard is quite important. Their number is also important. If we take into account USB ports, then there should be, let’s say, quite a few, since, in most cases, a mouse, keyboard, webcam, printer, scanner and a large variety of other devices are connected there.

You should pay attention to the audio connectors of the integrated sound card: there can be either three or six. Three connectors are enough for a standard circuit: microphone, headphones and subwoofer. If you plan to use multi-channel acoustics, then you need to look towards motherboards with 6 connectors. But even if you are not currently planning to purchase such acoustics, the connectors will not hurt, and they may be very useful in the future. And for office and budget systems, 3 audio connectors are more than enough.

In addition, two LAN connectors may be useful; for this, two network controllers must be soldered on the board. But for most users, one network connector will be enough.

Additional features

Additional features include functionality that is not in demand for the average user, but for some can be very useful:

• ESATA is an interface for connecting removable drives; it is not present in all motherboards and can be a very useful feature for owners of external drives.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module – integrated modules wireless network and data transfer, can significantly improve the functionality of the motherboard.
• Thunderbolt new interface to connect peripheral devices and providing data transfer at speeds of up to 10 Gb/s, which is 20 times faster than the now popular USB 2.0, and 2 times faster than USB 3.0.

A very specific interface that only a few people will need today, but which promises to gain great popularity in the future.

• This also includes special buttons and indicators on motherboards for overclocking. It can also be various branded elements and technologies from the manufacturer.

conclusions

Choosing a motherboard is not such an easy task. It is necessary, based on all the parameters, to select an option that will be satisfactory both in functional terms and in terms of cost. You need to be able to catch that fine line of the price/performance ratio. It should be remembered that everything is very individual and the best motherboard for your friend may be the worst option for your needs.

But if you focus on the basic parameters and approach the issue comprehensively, then the choice will be correct and will fully satisfy all your expectations.

P.S. We will try to answer your questions like “which motherboard should I buy?”, “which motherboard is better?” etc., in the comments to the article or on our forum.

Thank you for your attention. Good luck with your choice!

Long gone are the days when you could choose a PC of almost any configuration on the market for any task. There are now few companies that assemble PCs, and there are practically no companies left that specialize specifically in PC assembly. Moreover, the rest, as a rule, are engaged in exclusive and very expensive PCs, which not everyone can afford. But computers from companies that do not specialize in PC assembly often cause criticism. As a rule, these companies are engaged in the sale of components, and for them the assembly of ready-made configurations is not their main business, which is often just a means of cleaning warehouses. That is, computers are assembled according to the principle “what do we have in our warehouse?” As a result, for many users the motto “If you want it to be good, do it yourself” remains very relevant today.

Of course, you can always order a PC assembly of any configuration from commercially available components. But you will be the “foreman” of such an assembly, and it is you who will have to develop the PC configuration and approve the estimate. And this is by no means a simple matter and requires knowledge of the assortment on the component market, as well as the basic principles of creating PC configurations: in which case it is better to install a more powerful video card, and when you can get by with an integrated graphics core, but you need a powerful processor. We will not consider all aspects of creating a PC configuration, but we will have to remember several important steps.

So, at the first stage when creating a PC configuration, you need to decide on the platform: will it be a computer based on an AMD processor or based on an Intel processor. The answer to the question: “Which is better?” - simply does not exist, and we will not campaign in favor of one or another platform. In this article we’ll just talk about computers based on the Intel platform. At the second stage, after choosing a platform, you should decide on a specific processor model and select a motherboard. Moreover, we consider this choice to be one stage, since one is closely related to the other. You can choose a board for a specific processor, or you can choose a processor for a specific board. In this article we will look at the modern range of motherboards for Intel processors.

Where to begin

The range of modern motherboards for Intel processors, just like the range of Intel processors themselves, can be divided into two large families:

• boards based on the Intel X299 chipset for Intel Core X processors (Skylake-X and Kaby Lake-X)
• boards based on Intel 300 series chipsets for 8th generation Intel Core processors ( Coffee Lake).

These two platforms are completely different and incompatible with each other, and therefore we will consider them in more detail each separately. The remaining boards and processors are no longer relevant, although they can be found on sale.

Intel X299 chipset and Intel Core X family processors

The Intel X299 chipset, along with boards based on it and a family of compatible processors, was presented by Intel at Computex 2017. The platform itself was codenamed Basin Falls.

First of all, boards based on the Intel X299 chipset are only compatible with processors from the Skylake-X and Kaby Lake-X families, which have an LGA 2066 processor socket.

The platform is quite specific and is aimed at the segment of high-performance solutions, which Intel dubbed HEDT (High End DeskTop). Actually, the peculiarity of this platform is determined by the peculiarity of the Skylake-X and Kaby Lake-X processors, which are also called the Core X family.

Kaby Lake-X

Kaby Lake-X processors are 4-core. Today there are only two models of such processors: Core i7-7740X and Core i5-7640X. They are not much different from the “regular” processors of the Kaby Lake family with the LGA 1151 socket, but they are compatible with a completely different platform and, accordingly, have a different socket.

The Core i5-7640X and Core i7-7740X processors have an unlocked multiplier and lack a graphics core - like all models of the Core X family. The Core i7-7740X model supports Hyper-Threading technology (it has 4 cores and 8 threads), and the Core i7-7740X model supports Hyper-Threading technology (it has 4 cores and 8 threads), and the Core i5-7640X - no (4 cores and 4 threads). Both processors have a dual-channel DDR4 memory controller and support up to 64 GB of DDR4-2666 memory. The number of PCIe 3.0 lanes in both processors is 16 (as in regular Kaby Lake).

All processors of the Core X family with six or more cores are based on the Skylake microarchitecture. The range of models here is quite large. There are 6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, 14-, 16- and 18-core models, they are presented in two subfamilies: Core i7 and Core i9. 6- and 8-core models form the Core i7 family, and models with 10 or more cores form the Core i9 family.

Skylake-X

All processors of the Skylake-X family have a four-channel memory controller and, accordingly, the maximum amount of supported memory for them is 128 GB. The L3 cache size for each core is 1.375 MB: for a 6-core processor it is 8.25 MB, for an 8-core processor it is 11 MB, for a 10-core processor it is 13.75 MB, etc. Models of the Core i7 family ( Core i7-7800X and Core i7-7820X) each have 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes, and Core i9 family models have 44 lanes.

Intel X299 chipset

Now let's focus on the Intel X299 chipset, which is the basis of the motherboard and determines 90% (relatively, of course) of its functionality.

Since Core X processors can have either dual-channel (Kaby Lake X) or quad-channel (Skylake-X) DDR4 memory controllers, the Intel X299 chipset supports both memory modes. And boards based on this chipset usually have eight DIMM slots for installing memory modules. It’s just that if a Kaby Lake X processor is used, then only four of the eight memory slots can be used.

The functionality of the chipset is determined by the set of its high-speed input/output ports (High Speed ​​Input/Output, abbreviated to HSIO): USB 3.1/3.0, SATA 6 Gb/s or PCIe 3.0.

The Intel X299 chipset has 30 HSIO ports. The set is as follows: no more than 24 PCIe 3.0 ports, no more than 8 SATA 6 Gbps ports and no more than 10 USB 3.0 ports. But we note once again that in total there should be no more than 30. In addition, there can be no more than 14 USB ports in total, of which up to 10 can be USB 3.0 versions, and the rest can be USB 2.0.

Flexible I/O technology is also used: some HSIO ports can be configured as PCIe or USB 3.0 ports, and some others can be configured as PCIe or SATA 6 Gb/s ports.

Naturally, the Intel X299 chipset supports Intel RST (Rapid Storage Technology), which allows you to configure the SATA controller in RAID controller mode with support for levels 0, 1, 5 and 10. In addition, Intel technology RST is supported not only for SATA ports, but also for drives with a PCIe x4/x2 interface (M.2 and SATA Express connectors).

The distribution diagram of high-speed I/O ports for the Intel X299 chipset is shown in the figure.

Speaking about the Basin Falls platform, one cannot fail to mention such technology as Intel VROC (Virtual RAID on CPU). This is not a feature of the chipset, but of Core X processors, and not all of them, but only the Skylake-X family (Kaby Lake-X has too few PCIe 3.0 lanes).

VROC technology allows you to create a RAID array from SSD drives with a PCIe 3.0 x4/x2 interface, using PCIe 3.0 processor lines.

Implemented this technology differently. The classic option is to use a container card with a PCIe 3.0 x16 interface, which has four M.2 slots for SSD drives with a PCIe 3.0 x4 interface.

By default, RAID 0 is available for all SSD drives connected to the container card. If you want more, you have to pay. That is, in order for a RAID level 1 or 5 array to become available, you need to separately purchase an Intel VROC key and connect it to a special Intel VROC Upgrade Key connector on the motherboard (this connector is available on all boards with the Intel X299 chipset).

Intel 300 series chipsets and 8th generation Intel Core processors

The Basin Falls platform discussed above is aimed at a very specific market segment that requires multi-core processors. For most home users, computers on such a platform are both expensive and pointless. That's why The vast majority of PCs with Intel processors are computers based on Intel based Core 8th generation, also known under the code name Coffee Lake.

All Coffee Lake family processors have an LGA1151 socket and are only compatible with motherboards based on the Intel 300 series chipset.

Coffee Lake processors are represented by the Core i7, Core i5, Core i3 series, as well as Pentium Gold and Celeron.

Processors of the Core i7, Core i5 series are 6-core, and CPUs of the Core i3 series are 4-core models without support for Turbo Boost technology. The Pentium Gold and Celeron series make up the entry-level 2-core models. Coffee Lake processors of all series have a built-in graphics core.

The Core i7, Core i5 and even Core i3 series each have one processor model with an unlocked multiplier (K-series), that is these processors can (and should) be overclocked. But here you should remember that for overclocking you need not only a K-series processor, but also a board on a chipset that allows overclocking of the processor.

Now about the Intel 300 series chipsets. There's a whole garden of them here. Simultaneously with the Coffee Lake processors, only the Intel Z370 chipset was announced, which represented the entire family for almost a year. But the trick is that this chipset is “not real”. That is, at the time of the announcement of the Coffee Lake processors (October 2017), Intel did not have a new chipset for these processors. Therefore, they took the Intel Z270 chipset, made cosmetic changes and rebranded it as Intel Z370. Essentially, these are the same chipsets, with the only exception that they are aimed at different families of processors.

In April 2018, Intel announced another series of Intel 300 series chipsets - this time truly new ones, with new functionality. In total, the 300 series today includes seven models: Z370, Q370, H370, B360 and H310. Two more chipsets - Z390 and Q360 - will be announced, presumably, in early autumn.

So, All Intel 300 series chipsets are compatible only with Coffee Lake processors with LGA 1151 connector. The Q370 and Q360 models are aimed at the corporate segment of the market and are not of particular interest to users in the sense that motherboard manufacturers do not make consumer solutions for them. But the Z390, Z370, H370, B360 and H310 are just for users.

The Z390, Z370 and Q370 chipsets belong to the top segment, and the rest are obtained by castrating the functionality of the top models. The H370, B360 chipsets are for mass-produced inexpensive motherboards (boards that are called popular), but the H310 is when life begins to crack.

Now let's talk about how the rest get from the top models. It's simple. The top models Z390 and Q370 have exactly 30 numbered HSIO ports (USB 3.1/3.0, SATA 6 Gb/s and PCIe 3.0). Please note that we do not classify the Z370 chipset as a top model, because, as we have already noted, it is “fake” simply because it does not have the features that are inherent in Intel 300 series chipsets, although there are also exactly 30 HSIO ports In particular, the Z370 does not have USB controller 3.1 and there is no CNVi controller, which we will talk about a little later.

So, the Z390 and Q370 chipsets have 30 HSIO ports, of which there can be up to 24 PCIe 3.0 ports, up to 6 SATA 6 Gb/s ports and up to 10 USB 3.0 ports, of which up to 6 ports can be USB 3.1. Moreover, there can be no more than 14 USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 ports in total.

To get a non-top chipset from a top-end chipset, you just need to block some of the HSIO ports. That's all. True, there is one “but” here. The H310 chipset, which is completely castrated, differs from the others not only in that it has some HSIO ports blocked, but also in the fact that the PCIe ports here are only version 2.0, and not 3.0, as is the case with other chipsets. In addition, the USB 3.1 controller is also blocked here - in other words, there are only USB 3.0 ports.

The distribution diagram of high-speed I/O ports for Intel 300 series chipsets is shown in the figure.

If you have already become confused, then the easiest way to understand how the Intel 300 series chipsets for desktop PCs differ from each other is from this table.

	Q370	Z390	Z370	H370	Q360	B360	H310
Total HSIO ports	30	30	30	30	26	24	15
PCIe 3.0 lanes	up to 24	up to 24	up to 24	up to 20	14	12	6 (PCIe 2.0)
SATA 6 Gb/s ports	until 6	until 6	until 6	until 6	until 6	until 6	4
USB 3.1 ports	until 6	until 6	No	up to 4	up to 4	up to 4	No
USB 3.0 ports	to 10	to 10	to 10	up to 8	up to 8	6	4
Total number of USB ports	14	14	14	14	14	12	10
Intel RST for PCIe 3.0 (x4/x2 M.2)	3	3	3	2	1	1	No
Overclocking support	No	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No
PCIe 3.0 processor lane configurations	1x16 2x8 1x8 and 2x4			1x16
Memory support	DDR4	DDR4	DDR4	DDR4	DDR4	DDR4	DDR4
Number of memory channels/ number of modules per channel	2/2	2/2	2/2	2/2	2/2	2/2	2/1
Intel Optane Memory support	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
PCIe Storage support	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
PCIe RAID 0, 1, 5 support	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Support SATA RAID 0, 1, 5, 10	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
CNVi (Intel Wireless-AC) support	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Built-in gigabit network MAC layer controller	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Motherboard Manufacturers

There were times when there were dozens of motherboard manufacturers. But natural selection led to the fact that there were very few of them left - only the strongest survived. And speaking of Russian market, that is, only four motherboard manufacturers: ASRock, Asus, Gigabyte and MSI (do not pay attention to the order - everything is in alphabetical order). There is, however, also a company called Biostar, but you can safely forget about it.

Talking about whose products are of better quality is pointless and incorrect. The factories where boards are produced are the same for all companies in the sense that they use the same equipment. In addition, boards from the same Asus can be produced at Gigabyte factories and vice versa. It all depends on the workload of the factories, and not a single company disdains OEM production. In addition, there are companies such as Foxconn and ECS that are exclusively engaged in OEM and ODM manufacturing, including for ASRock, Asus, Gigabyte and MSI. So the question of where exactly the board was made is not so important. It matters who developed it.

Features of boards based on the Intel X299 chipset

First of all, we note that boards based on the Intel X299 chipset are aimed at expensive PCs. The peculiarity of these boards is that they support processors with different numbers of PCIe 3.0 lanes - 16, 28 and 44 lanes. Based on PCIe 3.0 processor lines, primarily PCI Express 3.0 x16/x8/x4 slots are implemented, as well as sometimes M.2/U.2 connectors. The difficulty in this case is that each type of processor must have its own implementation of slots.

In a simple case (not very expensive boards) the implementation is as follows. The processor version with 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes will have two PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots, one PCI Express 3.0 x8 (in the PCI Express x16 form factor) and one PCI Express 3.0 x4 (again, can be in the PCI Express x16 form factor) ).

In the processor version with 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes, one PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot will become unavailable, that is, there will only be one PCI Express 3.0 x16, one PCI Express 3.0 x8 and one PCI Express 3.0 x4 slot.

In the processor version with 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes (Kaby Lake-X), another PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot is simply blocked and only PCI Express 3.0 x8 and PCI Express 3.0 x4 slots remain.

But it may also be that in the processor version with 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes, two slots will be available: PCI Express 3.0 x16/x8 and PCI Express 3.0 x8 - which operate in x16/- or x8/x8 modes (an additional PCIe 3.0 line switch is required ).

However, such sophisticated circuits are used only in expensive boards. Manufacturers do not pay special attention mode of operation of the board with Kaby Lake-X processors. Moreover, there is even a motherboard based on the Intel X299 chipset, which simply does not support Kaby Lake-X processors.

Actually, this is quite logical and correct. There is no point in using Kaby Lake-X processors in combination with boards based on Intel X299 chipsets - this greatly limits the functionality of the board. First, there will be fewer PCI Express 3.0 x16/x8 slots available for use. Secondly, out of eight slots for memory modules, which are usually found on boards with the Intel X299 chipset, only four will be available. Accordingly, the maximum amount of supported memory will be two times less. Thirdly, Intel VROC technology will also be unavailable. That is, if a board based on the Intel X299 chipset is used with a Kaby Lake-X processor, then you will get an expensive solution that will be inferior in both performance and functionality to solutions based on the Coffee Lake processor. In a word, expensive and pointless.

In our opinion, boards based on the Intel 299 chipset only make sense in combination with Skylake-X processors, and it’s better if these are Core i9 series processors, that is, models with 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes. Only in this case can you take advantage of all the functionality of the Basin Falls platform.

Now about what the Basin Falls platform is needed for.

Most motherboards with Intel X299 chipsets are positioned as gaming ones. The names of the boards either contain the word “Gaming” or they generally refer to the gaming series (for example, Asus ROG). This, of course, does not mean that these boards are somehow different from those boards that are not positioned as gaming ones. It's just easier to sell. Now the word “Gaming” is thrown around everywhere, simply because there is at least some demand for it. But an extra word on the box, of course, does not oblige the manufacturer to anything.

Moreover, we would say that motherboards based on the Intel X299 chipset are least suitable for gaming. That is, you can, of course, build a gaming computer based on them, but it will be expensive and ineffective. Just The main highlight of the Basin Falls platform is multi-core processors, and games do not need this. And using a 10-, 12-, 14-, 16-, or 18-core processor will not provide any advantage in games.

Of course, boards with the Intel X299 chipset have a lot of PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots and, it would seem, you can install several video cards. But this is good just to show off to your neighbors: two video cards can be installed on a system with an Intel Z370 chipset, but three video cards simply do not make sense (however, two either).

But if the Basin Falls platform is not the most suitable option for games, then what is the best way to use it? The answer will disappoint many. The Basin Falls platform is very specific and most home users do not need it at all. It is optimal to use it for working with specific applications that can be well parallelized by more than 20 threads. And if we talk about the applications that home users encounter, there are very few of them. These are video conversion (and editing) programs, 3D rendering programs, as well as specific scientific applications that were originally developed for multi-core processors. In other cases, the Basin Falls platform simply will not provide any advantages over a platform based on Coffee Lake processors, but it will be much more expensive.

But if you still work with applications where 36 threads (18-core Skylake-X processor) would not be superfluous, then the Basin Falls platform is just what you need.

How to choose a board based on the Intel X299 chipset

So, you need a board on the Intel X299 chipset for Skylake-X processors. But the range of such boards is quite large. Only Asus offers 10 models based on this chipset in four series. Gigabyte has an even larger list of models offered - 12 pieces. Further, 10 models are produced by ASRock and 8 models by MSI. The price range is from 14 to 35 thousand rubles. That is, there is a choice, and it is very wide (for every taste and budget). What is the difference between these boards that they can differ so much (more than twice) in cost? It is clear that we will not describe the features of each of the 40 board models that are on the market, but we will try to highlight the main aspects.

The difference is primarily in functionality, which, in turn, is determined by the set of ports, slots and connectors, as well as various additional features.

If we talk about ports, slots and connectors, these are PCI Express 3.0 x16/x8/x4/x1 slots, USB 3.1/3.0 and SATA ports, as well as M.2 connectors (PCIe 3.0 x4/x2 and SATA). Not so long ago, there were also SATA Express and U.2 connectors on boards (there are such connectors on some models of boards sold), but still, these are already “dead” connectors, and they are no longer used on new models.

PCI Express 3.0 x16/x8 slots are implemented via PCIe 3.0 processor lines. PCI Express 3.0 x4 slots can be implemented via both processor lines and PCIe 3.0 chipset lines. And PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots, if any, are always implemented via PCIe 3.0 chipset lines

Expensive board models use complex switching schemes that allow maximum use of all PCIe 3.0 processor lines in the version of all processor types (with 44, 28 and 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes). Moreover, switching between processor and chipset PCIe 3.0 lines is even possible. That is, for example, when a processor with 28 or 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes is used, some slots with the PCI Express x16 form factor are switched to PCIe 3.0 chipset lines. An example would be a board or. It is clear that such opportunities do not come cheap.

Asus board Prime X299-Deluxe

As we have already said, the Intel X299 chipset has exactly 30 HSIO ports, which are PCIe 3.0, USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gb/s ports. For inexpensive (by the standards of this segment) boards, this is quite enough, that is, everything that is implemented on the board (controllers, slots, ports) can work without being separated from each other. Typically, boards with the Intel X299 chipset have two M.2 connectors (PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA), a gigabit network controller and a Wi-Fi module (or two gigabit controllers), a pair of USB 3.1 controllers, and a PCI Express 3.0 x4 slot. In addition, there are 8 SATA ports and 6-8 3.0 ports.

More expensive models can add more network controllers, USB 3.1 controllers, more USB 3.0 ports, as well as PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots. Moreover, there are also network controllers that meet new standards. For example, the 10-gigabit network controller Aquantia AQC-107, which can connect to the chipset via two or four PCIe 3.0 lanes. There are also Wi-Fi modules of the WiGig standard (802.11ad). For example, the Asus ROG Rampage VI Extreme board has both an Aquantia AQC-107 controller and an 802.11ad Wi-Fi module.

But... you can’t bend it above your head. And the fact that there is a lot of stuff on the board does not mean that all of it can be used at the same time. No one has canceled the chipset limitations, so if there is a lot of everything, then, most likely, something must be separated from something else, unless the board uses an additional PCIe line switch, which allows, in fact, to overcome the limitations on the number of PCIe lanes . An example of a board that uses a switch (albeit PCIe 2.0 lines) would be.

ASRock X299 Taichi board

The presence of such a switch certainly increases the cost of the solution, but the feasibility of such a switch is questionable, since the basic capabilities of the Intel X299 chipset are quite sufficient.

There are also boards where switches are used not for chipset lines, but for PCIe 3.0 processor lines, this allows you to increase the number of PCI Express 3.0 x16/x8 slots. For example, the Asus WS X299 Sage board, which is positioned as a workstation, has seven slots with PCI Express 3.0 x16/x8, which can operate in x16/x8/x8/x8/x8/x8/x8 mode. It is clear that even 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes of Skylake-X processors will not be enough for this. Therefore, the board additionally has a pair of PCIe 3.0 PLX PEX 8747 switches. Each such switch is connected to 16 PCIe 3.0 processor lines and provides 32 PCIe 3.0 lanes at the output. But this, of course, is a specific and expensive solution.

Asus WS X299 Sage board

The range of motherboards based on Intel X299 chipsets also includes quite exotic and expensive solutions. For example, motherboards or Asus ROG Rampage VI Extreme. The first of them is designed for extreme overclocking and has a reduced number of memory slots (one module per memory channel). Asus ROG Rampage VI Extreme is different in that it does not support Kaby Lake-X processors at all. In addition, both boards have proprietary DIMM.2 connectors, which are visually similar to slots for memory modules, but provide a PCIe 3.0 x4 interface and are designed for installing special expansion cards. Each such card allows you to install up to two SSD drives with an M.2 connector.

Asus ROG Rampage VI Apex Board

Asus ROG Rampage VI Extreme board

There is practically no demand for such solutions and it is almost impossible to sell them. But such boards are not made for sale - they are a kind of calling card of the company. Of all the motherboard manufacturers, only Asus can afford to make such boards.

As we have already noted, in addition to the diversity in the set of slots, connectors and ports, boards based on the Intel X299 chipset differ in the set additional features, and, of course, the package.

A new trend is the presence of RGB lighting on the board, as well as separate connectors for connecting LED strips. Moreover, there are even two types of connectors: four-pin and three-pin. A non-addressable RGB strip is connected to the 4-pin connector, in which all the LEDs glow the same color. Naturally, the color can be any and can change, but synchronously for all LEDs.

An addressable strip is connected to the 3-pin connector, in which each LED can have its own color.

The LED lighting on the board is synchronized with the lighting of the connected LED strips.

Why backlighting is needed on boards with the Intel X299 chipset is not very clear. There are all sorts of whistles, tricks and various lights - it's all aimed at pioneers. But when it comes to expensive, high-performance PCs that are designed to run highly specialized applications, LED backlighting hardly makes sense at all. However, it, like the word Gaming, is present on most boards.

So, let's summarize briefly. Boards based on the Intel X299 chipset are aimed at high-performance PCs that are designed to work with well-paralleled applications. It makes sense to use these boards in combination with Skylake-X Core i9 series processors. Only in this case can you take advantage of all the functionality of the boards. Not all home users need computers based on boards with the Intel X299 chipset. First of all, it's expensive. Secondly, it’s not a fact that your super-powerful computer is based on, for example, an 18-core Core processor The i9-7980XE will be faster than a computer with a 6-core Coffee Lake processor. It's just that in some cases it is better to have fewer fast cores than many slow ones.

Therefore, the Basin Falls platform only makes sense if you know for sure that the applications you are working with can be parallelized by more than 20 threads. But if not, then a computer with a Coffee Lake processor will be optimal for you, which, accordingly, will require a board based on the Intel 300 series chipset.

Features of boards based on Intel 300 series chipsets

Of the seven Intel 300 series chipsets, only five models are aimed at motherboards for home users: Intel Z390, Z370, H370, B360 and H310. The Intel Z390 chipset has not yet been announced, so we won’t talk about it yet, but boards based on the other chipsets are already available. The top of the remaining list is the Intel Z370 chipset. Next in terms of price and features are the H370, B360 and H310. Accordingly, boards based on the Z370 chipset are the most expensive. Then, in order of decreasing cost, there are boards based on the H370, B360 and H310 chipsets.

All Intel 300 series chipsets with the exception of the Z370 have built-in CNVi and USB 3.1 controllers (with the exception of the younger Intel H310 model). So why then is the Intel Z370 the top one, and the boards on it the most expensive?

Firstly, of the four (Z370, H370, B360 and H310) chipsets under consideration, only the Intel Z370 allows you to combine 16 PCIe 3.0 processor lines into x16, x8+x8 or x8+x4+x4 ports. All other chipsets only allow grouping into an x16 port. From a user's point of view, this means that only boards with the Intel Z370 chipset can have two graphics card slots based on PCIe 3.0 processor lines. AND Only Intel Z370 based boards can support Nvidia SLI mode. Accordingly, two slots with the PCI Express x16 form factor on boards with the Intel Z370 chipset operate in x16/— (when using one slot) or x8/x8 (when using two slots) modes.

Note that if a board with an Intel Z370 chipset has more than two slots with the PCI Express x16 form factor, then the third slot is a PCI Express 3.0 x4 slot, but in the PCI Express x16 form factor, and it can already be implemented on based on PCIe 3.0 chipset lines. The combination of x8+x4+x4 ports based on PCIe 3.0 processor lines on boards with the Intel Z370 chipset is found only in the most expensive models.

All other variants (H370, B360 and H310 chipsets) can only have one PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot based on 16 PCIe 3.0 processor lanes.

Secondly, of the four chipsets under consideration only Intel Z370 allows overclocking of the processor and memory. You can change both the multiplication factor and the base frequency BCLK. Changing the base frequency is possible for all processors, but changing the multiplier factor is only possible for K-series processors that have this factor unlocked.

As you can see, the Intel Z370 chipset has undeniable advantages above its H370, B360 and H310 siblings. But, if you are not planning to overclock the system, then the advantages of the Intel Z370 chipset are no longer so obvious, since the need for two video cards is rather an exception to the rule. However, one more circumstance must be taken into account. The Intel Z370 chipset is top-end not only because it allows you to overclock the processor and group PCIe 3.0 processor lines into different ports. This chipset does not have blocked HSIO ports, and, accordingly, its functionality is wider. That is, based on the Intel Z370 chipset, most can be implemented.

True, the Intel Z370 chipset does not have a USB 3.1 controller or CNVi. But can this be considered a serious drawback?

As for USB 3.1 ports, on boards with the Intel Z370 chipset they are implemented, as a rule, using a dual-port ASMedia ASM3142 controller. And from the user’s point of view, there is no difference in how exactly USB 3.1 ports are implemented: through a controller built into the chipset, or through a controller external to the chipset. Another thing is more important: what exactly to connect to these ports. And the vast majority of users do not need USB 3.1 ports at all.

Now about the CNVi (Connectivity Integration) controller. It provides work Wi-Fi connections(802.11ac, up to 1.733 Gbps) and Bluetooth 5.0 (new version of the standard). However, the CNVi controller is not a full-fledged network controller, but a MAC controller. For a full-fledged controller, you also need an Intel Wireless-AC 9560 card with an M.2 connector (E-type dongle). Moreover, no other card will do. Only Intel 9560, which supports the CNVi interface.

Again, from the user’s point of view, it makes absolutely no difference how exactly the Wi-Fi network interface is implemented. In this case, the situation is approximately the same as with the Intel i219-V and Intel i211-AT gigabit network controllers. The first of them is a PHY-level controller, which is used in conjunction with a MAC controller built into the chipset, and the second is a full-fledged network controller.

How to choose a board based on the Intel 300 series chipset

So, there is an awareness of the fact that you need a board for a Coffee Lake processor with an LGA1151 socket. The range of such boards is very large. For example, Asus alone has 12 models of boards only on the Intel Z370 chipset, 10 models on the Intel B360 chipset, 6 models on the Intel H370 chipset and 5 models on the Intel H310 chipset. Let's add an assortment here Gigabyte boards, ASRock and MSI, and it will become clear that possible options so many.

Intel H310

In the line of Intel 300 series chipsets, the H310 is the entry-level model or, in other words, in simple language, this chipset is aimed at the cheapest motherboards with minimal capabilities.

In addition, only 15 of the 30 HSIO ports (6 PCIe, 4 SATA, 4 USB 3.0 and one port dedicated to LAN) are not blocked on the Intel H310 chipset; all ports are PCIe version 2.0. There is no USB 3.1 controller here either. It is also important to note that boards with Intel H310 can only have two slots for memory modules, since one module is supported per memory channel.

With such a limitation of the chipset, you won’t be able to get much faster. That's why all boards based on Intel H310 are very similar to each other, and the price range here is not very large. In a typical version, the board has one PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot for a video card (based on PCIe 3.0 processor lines). In addition, a maximum of one M.2 connector (or none at all), a gigabit network controller, four SATA port and a pair of PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots. There are also several (no more than 4) USB 3.0 ports. That's all, actually.

An example of a cheap (4800 rubles) version of a board based on the Intel H310 chipset could be the model. A more expensive option (6500 rubles) is a board.

Conclusion

We reviewed two modern platforms for Intel processors: the Basin Falls platform on the Intel X299 chipset, compatible with processors from the Intel Core-X family (Skylake-X, Kaby Lake-X), and the platform on Intel 300 series chipsets, compatible with processors from the Intel Core-X family of processors. Coffee Lake. We hope our story will help you more confidently navigate the huge range of motherboards and make the right choice for your specific tasks.

In the future, we plan to make a similar article dedicated to motherboards for AMD processors.

This article will examine and describe in detail the chipsets produced by Intel for the latest generations of processors from this manufacturer. Recommendations will also be given regarding the choice of motherboard logic when assembling a new computer system.

What is a "chipset"?

The word “chipset” means a set of chips that is installed on the motherboard. It connects together the various components of a computer system. Its second name is system logic. As a rule, it is tied to a specific socket, that is, the processor socket. This article will discuss the most current solutions from Intel that can still be found on sale.

"Sandy Bridge" and 6-series chipsets

The most “ancient” of those produced that can still be found on sale today belong to the 6th series. They were announced at the beginning of 2011, and any CPU of the Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge families can be installed in them. If you install a second family of CPUs, you may need All of these chips were installed in and were often equipped with an integrated graphics solution. Another important feature of this platform was that it consisted of only one chip - the “south bridge”. But the “north bridge” was integrated into the processor. The most affordable among them was the chipset. It allowed the creation of inexpensive office systems. It could also be used to make a good PC for studying. But the combinations “Kor Ai5” or “Cor Ai7” and “H61” look completely ridiculous. It is stupid to install a high-performance processor into a MiniATX motherboard with minimal functionality. This chipset allowed the installation of only 2 RAM modules, was equipped with one PCI-Express 16x v2.0 slot for installing an external graphics accelerator, and had 10 USB ports version 3.0 and 4 SATA ports for connecting hard drives or an optical drive.

The middle segment was occupied by Q65, B65, Q67 (these chipsets did not support Evie Bridge chips). The difference between them and the H61 was the number of RAM slots (in this case there were 4 instead of 2) and storage ports (5 versus 4). Initially, H67 and P67 were used for the most productive ones. The first of them supported integrated video, but was equipped with only one slot for installing an external graphics accelerator. And the second one was aimed only at use (it had 2 slots for these purposes), but the built-in graphics accelerator did not work on such motherboards. In turn, solutions based on the Z68 combined best sides H67 and P67. This particular chipset can be considered the best for this platform.

"Ivy Bridge" and motherboards for them

The new generation of Ivy Bridge CPUs came in 2012 to replace the Sandy Bridge. There were no fundamental differences between these generations of chips. The only thing that has essentially changed is the technological process. The previous generation of processors was manufactured using 32 nm technology, and the new one is manufactured using a 22 nm process technology. The socket for these chips was the same - 1155. Entry-level systems in this case were also built on the Intel H61 chipset, which perfectly supported both generations of semiconductor crystals. But the middle and premium segments in this case have changed significantly. Although the characteristics of the Intel7 series chipsets indicate that they were practically no different from their predecessors. The mid-level solutions in this case included B75, Q75, Q77 and H77. All of them were equipped with 1 slot for a video card and had 4 slots for installing RAM. The B75 has the most modest parameters: 5 SATA 2.0 ports and 1 SATA 3.0 port for organizing the disk subsystem and 8 USB 2.0 ports and 4 USB 3.0 ports. By the way, all 7 series chipsets could boast exactly the same amount of USB 3.0. The Q75 differed from the B75 only in the number of USB 2.0 ports, of which in this case there were already 10 instead of 8. The H77 and Q77, unlike the Q75 and B75, could boast of having two SATA 3.0 ports. The premium segment in this case was represented by the Z75 and Z77. If the previous four chipsets only allowed overclocking the CPU and graphics accelerator, then these two semiconductor crystals could also increase the RAM frequency. Also in this case, the number of slots for video cards increased. There were 2 of them in solutions based on Z75, and 3 in Z77.

Haswell, Haswell Refresh and its system logics

In 2013, it was replaced by 1150. Its processors did not make any revolutionary changes. The only exception in this regard was the power consumption of the chips, which in this particular family of CPUs was significantly redesigned and this made it possible, without changing the technological process, to significantly reduce the thermal package of semiconductor crystals. New sets of system logic were released for the new socket. Their parameters have much in common with the previous generation of the 7 Series. There were 6 chipsets in total: H81, B85, Q85, Q87, P87 and Z87. The most modest in terms of parameters was the H81. It has only 2 slots for RAM, 2 SATA 3.0 ports, 2 SATA 2.0 ports and 1 video card slot. Also, the number of USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports was 8 and 2, respectively. Celeron and Pentium chips were usually installed in motherboards based on this set of system logic. The Intel B85 chipset differed from the H81 in the increased number of RAM slots (there were already 4), USB 3.0 and SATA 3.0 ports (4 pieces in both cases versus 2). Q85 could, in comparison with B85, boast only 10 USB ports version 2.0. These two chipsets are most often used in conjunction with Cor I3 chips. The characteristics of the Q87, P87 and Z87 are identical. They have 4 RAM slots, 8 USB 2.0 ports, 6 USB 3.0 ports and 6 SATA 3.0 ports. The Q87 and P87 chipsets were perfect for Core I5 ​​and Core I7 with locked multipliers. But the Z87 was focused on chips with the “K” index, that is, they were built on its basis computer systems to overclock the CPU.

Broadwell and chipsets for it

In 2014, the Haswell generation was replaced by new chips codenamed Broadwell. They are manufactured using a new 14 nm process technology and are not fully compatible with 8 series logic sets. Few processors themselves were released and, as a result, there was no specific update of the chipsets. Only 2 of them were produced - H97 and Z97. The first of them was intended for a CPU with a locked multiplier and completely repeated the parameters of the P87. Well, the Intel Z97 chipset was an exact copy of the Z87, but supported 5th generation Kor processors. By the way, the same motherboards can also install 4th generation chips, that is, Haswell.

System logic for Skylike

A total of 5 sets of system logic were presented for the latest generation of CPUs, codenamed “Skylike”: H110, B150, H170, Q170 Z170. A comparison of Intel chipsets of the eighth and hundredth series clearly indicates the positioning of the latter. Wherein technical specifications they are almost identical. The first of them - H110 - is intended for use in budget and office computer systems along with Celerons and Pentiums. B170 and H170 are aimed at “Cor Ai3”, “Cor Ai5” and “Cor Ai7” with locked multipliers. Well, with the “Kor I5” and “Kor I7” multipliers unlocked (that is, a CPU with the index “K”), it is most correct to install it in Z170-based motherboards. There is one important difference in this family of chipsets, which is the support for a new type of RAM - DDR4. But all earlier versions of system logic from this manufacturer supported only DDR3.

What's next?

The life cycle of the 100th series of Intel chipsets is just beginning. These decisions will be relevant for exactly another 2 years. And the replacement process itself will not be so fast in the future. But, in any case, its successors will have a similar division into niches. Even their designations will be similar.

Solutions for enthusiasts

Separately, it is necessary to consider system logic sets for enthusiasts from Intel. The 2011 platform chipsets were different from all previously described ones. The first of them was X79. It allowed the installation of the most productive chips of the Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge families. It was replaced in 2014 by the X99, which was intended for the installation of Haswell solutions. Among other differences, it is necessary to highlight in the latter the support for RAM of the DDR 4 standard, while the X79 could only work with DDR 3. Also, these processors, in comparison with the previously described chips, could boast an improved memory controller (4 channels) and an increased number of computing modules (the most productive solutions included 8 such blocks).

Motherboard chipsets Intel boards clearly distributed among niches. It is recommended to build the least productive solutions on the basis of H81 and H110. The most productive PCs for computer enthusiasts are best built on the Z87, Z97 and Z170. The remaining chipsets are aimed at mid-level computer systems. Their performance will definitely be enough for the next 2-3 years, but at the same time the possibility of overclocking is reduced to a minimum. well and Latest updates BIOS generally indicate that such an option will no longer exist. The chipset manufacturer itself blocks it. From the point of view of novelty, it is better to choose solutions from the hundredth series, which are now just beginning to actively appear on store shelves. But if you save your budget, you will have to purchase more affordable 80 series motherboards.

Results

This article examined in detail the system logic sets released since 2011 by Intel Corporation. This semiconductor giant updates its chipsets almost every year. As a result, each new generation of CPU requires the purchase of an updated motherboard. On the one hand, this increases the cost of the PC, and on the other hand, it allows you to constantly improve its characteristics.

Key Trends and Brief Descriptions of Six Semiconductor Variations on the Same Theme

We have already managed to get acquainted with some motherboards for the new Intel LGA1150 platform, and with new processors too. However, we have not yet looked at the chipsets in detail. What is not entirely correct is that you will have to “live” with them for a long time: at least two generations of processors. Moreover, in the new series, Intel approached the issue of reworking the platform in a rather radical way - if the seventh series was only a small modification of the sixth and existed in parallel with it (the budget H61 did not receive a successor at all) within the framework of one LGA1155 platform, and the sixth most inherited its features from the fifth, the eighth was designed almost from scratch. Not in the sense that it has absolutely nothing in common with previous products - in fact, it is still the same south bridge, in basic functionality comparable to the “peripheral” hub of very old chipsets and interacting with the northern one (which is already in the processor) via DMI 2.0 buses (the same as in 1155/2011) and FDI (the interface debuted in the fifth series of chipsets and serves for connecting displays). But the logic of the work has changed. Yes, and peripheral interfaces too. So it's time to talk about all this in more detail.

Quarter FDI...

Let's start with the Flexible Display Interface, which, as we have already said, appeared within the framework of LGA1156. But not right away - the P55 chipset did not have this interface: it debuted in the H55 and H57, released simultaneously with processors with a built-in video core, fortunately others did not need it. Both within this and within the subsequent platform, it was the only way to use the integrated GPU. Moreover, Intel also had a P67 chipset with a blocked FDI, which did not allow video outputs to be installed on the boards on it. However, the company later abandoned this approach. What remains difficult is connecting a large number of high-resolution displays. More precisely, as long as we were talking about two digital image sources and resolutions no higher than Full HD, everything was fine. As soon as attempts began to get out of this framework, problems immediately began. In particular, the fact that it is impossible to find a board with support for 4K on HDMI directly hints that it was not the manufacturers who did the trick ;) Yes, Intel is promoting DisplayPort, which does not require licensing fees for use, but it is not available in consumer electronics during the day you'll find it. And the appearance of a third video output in Ivy Bridge actually turned out to be a theoretical advantage of the new line of GPUs: it quickly became clear that it can only be used on boards with at least a couple of DPs. Which actually happened only in the case of expensive models with Thunderbolt support.

What has changed in the eighth generation? FDI has shrunk from eight to two lines, as the title says. This is explained simply - following the example of the AMD APU, all digital outputs (up to three pieces) were transferred directly to the processor, and the chipset is now responsible only for analog VGA. Thus, if the latter is abandoned, the board layout is greatly simplified already at the processor-chipset linking stage. Of course, working around the socket becomes a little more complicated, but not much if you don’t demand records from the board. For example, in the ASUS Gryphon Z87 the manufacturer limited itself to two video outputs, which will be enough for many, since one of them is “standard” DVI, but the second is HDMI 1.4 with a maximum resolution of 4096 x 2160 @24 Hz or 2560 x 1600 @60 Hz. Or you can go for a record - like in Gigabyte G1.Sniper 5, where there are two such outputs plus DisplayPort 1.2 (up to 3840x2160 @60 Hz) was added to them. Moreover, all three can be used simultaneously. Or you can do it not at the same time - for example, connect a pair of high-resolution monitors to HDMI. It is clear that suitable models are all equipped with DP, and HDMI may no longer be found in them, however... see above about previous generations: most motherboards would not be able to handle two high-resolution monitors at all. You could only connect them to your computer using discrete video card, which is not always convenient and sometimes impossible. Systems based on Haswell are forced to resort to discrete graphics only in cases where the needs of mass users go beyond: if necessary maximum performance graphics subsystem (in a gaming computer), or when strictly more than three monitors are needed.

In general, purists who advocate that processors should be processors, and everything else is from the evil one, may once again be indignant at the fact that an increasing number of northbridge functions are being transferred under the CPU cover - let them be. From a practical point of view, what is more important is that previously integrated video did not always have sufficient peripheral capabilities, let’s say. What’s new is in many ways a foundation for the future - it’s clear that now no one will connect three 4K TVs (or at least high-resolution monitors) to a computer, and even if they do, they’re unlikely to use the integrated GPU. However, at least this became possible. And in the future, in terms of video support, the situation will not worsen, but this will already be useful. In addition, this approach of the company, in fact, pushes manufacturers to completely abandon the analog interface. Which “healed” on the market to a large extent precisely because of Intel’s early policy regarding video outputs: back in the fourth series of chipsets it was easier to just limit ourselves to “analog,” but “digital” required additional gestures. Now it’s the other way around, which will obviously affect both motherboards and monitors: their manufacturers will no longer be able to claim that VGA is the most common.

By the way, one of the reasons is why we started with FDI: this change already makes new processors completely incompatible with older platforms, where video outputs were connected specifically to the chipset. This is something that should always be remembered by those who decide to complain about a socket change. It is clear that for the sake of this alone, Intel would hardly have gone for an even overdue, but radical redesign of the platform, however, along with a change in the approach to power supply (integrated VRM and single circuits for both processor and graphics cores, as opposed to separate circuits previous generations) there are enough potential benefits. Actually, all of them lead to the fact that, despite the use of the same DMI 2.0, the platforms have become fundamentally incompatible with each other. But the possibility of using the eighth series PCH in the updated version of the LGA2011 platform (if it is considered necessary) remains: one interface is enough there, and FDI is not used.

...and PCI bye-bye

The PCI bus appeared more than 20 years ago and all these years it has faithfully served computer users, first as a high-speed internal interface, and then as just an interface. We already have a historical aspect, but now we’ll just say that since the publication of this material, PCI has become completely and irrevocably outdated, but is still often used. Another question is that its presence in chipsets has already become an anachronism - the layout of parallel buses is inconvenient, since the number of contacts of a relatively small chip increases sharply. Those. manufacturers motherboards It’s easier to use additional bridges even in boards that support PCI chipsets.

Why did PCIe-PCI bridges appear on the market in the first place? This is due to the fact that Intel gradually began to remove support for the second bus from its products already within the sixth series. More precisely, the PCI controller itself was physically in the chips, but its contacts were brought out only in half of the packaged chips. The main line of the division was the positioning of the latter - in the business series (B65, Q65 and Q67, as well as their successors of the seventh series) and the extreme X79, there was “innate” PCI support, but in those oriented towards the mass desktop segment and intended for mobile computers decisions it was blocked. It seems to us that such a half-hearted decision was made because the company itself could not decide whether to “finish off” PCI or whether it was too early. It turned out that it was just right :) Of course, there were still dissatisfied people, but mostly theoretically dissatisfied. In practice, many did without PCI slots at all, and some were completely satisfied with bridges. In general, the company did not have to make an urgent refresh of the chipset line, returning PCI to its place. Therefore, the eighth series of chipsets does not support this bus either de jure or de facto. Thus, the process of transition from PCI/AGP to PCIe, which began back in 2004, has come to its logical conclusion; ended, to put it simply. This is noted even in the names of the chips: for the first time since the notorious i915P and its relatives, there is no word “Express” - just “Chipset”. What is logical is that it no longer makes sense to emphasize support for the PCIe interface in conditions where only it is available. And very symbolic ;)

Let us emphasize, just in case (especially for the most timid), that PCI support is not in chipsets, not on boards - the latter can provide the user with a couple of PCI in the already familiar way: using a PCIe-PCI bridge. And many manufacturers do this - including Intel itself. So if someone has an expensive scarf lying around as a memory of their youth, it’s still not difficult to find where to stick it. Even when buying a computer on the latest platform.

SATA600 and USB 3.0 - the same and more

Six SATA ports appeared in the ICH9R southbridges as part of the third series chipsets (and formally the “fourth” X48), but the weaker ICH9 was limited to four. Within the fourth family, this injustice was eliminated - ICH10 still did not support RAID, but it was also given six SATA. This scheme migrated to the fifth series without changes, while the sixth brought support for the faster SATA600 to Intel chipsets. But it’s limited - older models received two high-speed ports, the junior “business” B65 was limited to one, and the budget H61 was deprived on all fronts: only four SATA300 ports and nothing more. Nothing changed in the seventh episode. In general, the solution with a limited number of ports was logical: since only solid-state drives, but not hard drives, can get some (and not always big) benefits from SATA600, it is still not needed in budget systems at all. And in low-budget ones, one or two ports are enough, especially since a larger number of high-speed devices will not be able to work fully at the same time, because DMI 2.0 has limited bandwidth, however...

However, AMD not only implemented support for SATA600 almost a year earlier, but also in the number of all six ports. Of course, there was never any talk about their simultaneous operation at full speed either - the bandwidth of the Alink Express III (the bus connecting the north and south bridge of the chipsets AMD series 800 and 900), that UMI (provides communication between FCH and APU on FM1/FM2 platforms), that DMI 2.0 is absolutely the same, since the whole trio is a slightly redesigned electrically PCIe 2.0 x4. But this solution was more convenient - if only because when assembling the system you don’t need to think about where to connect which drive. Moreover, it’s easier to advertise - six ports sounds much better than two. And recently in the A85X there were eight of them.

In general, Intel decided not to put up with this state of affairs and increase the number of ports. True, they approached the issue in their own way: there are two SATA controllers left, as in previous families. But the one that is responsible for SATA600 is now capable of connecting up to six devices out of six possible. Smaller than AMD as before, but still convenient. And the total speed, as mentioned above, remains the same, so quantity can turn into quality no earlier than the inter-hub interface changes. And something tells us that this will not happen soon - until then, SATA Express will probably be tried “to the teeth”, which will make the bandwidth of SATA itself generally insignificant.

As for USB 3.0, initially Intel was generally lukewarm about the new interface. Later, the company came to its senses, and in the seventh series of chipsets an xHCI controller with support for four Super Speed ​​ports appeared. And in the eighth, this part of the chipset was radically redesigned. Firstly, the maximum number of ports has been increased to six - this is more than AMD, so all motherboard manufacturers have already sent out winning press releases on this topic. Many, however, are not satisfied with this, but continue to add discrete controllers or hubs to their products, increasing the number of ports to eight or even ten. To be honest, we see no more practical use in this than in six chipset ports, since a dozen USB devices Not a single user will have 3.0, and for a long time. Those. here are four ports - necessary and sufficient: a couple for back panel, a couple more in the form of a comb to bring it to the “face” of the system unit, but where else? In laptops, there are often three ports in total. So it goes.

But, in general, there are more ports, which is just the tip of the iceberg. Underwater can also be unpleasant - there is only one USB controller in the new chipsets. Why is this bad? Intel - nothing: the chip was simplified. For board manufacturers, nothing either: the wiring is simpler, since, in fact, it doesn’t matter from which legs to pull what. But for users... Firstly, older chipsets had not one, but two independent EHCI controllers, which theoretically could have been more high speed provide “legacy” High Speed ​​peripherals with the simultaneous use of several devices. Secondly, this pair of controllers has not changed for many years, so it was perfectly “understood” by all more or less relevant operating systems without installing additional drivers. Under Windows XP, however, one was needed, but even under this OS all 14 ports worked (or less in lower chipsets, but all physically present) - albeit only as USB 2.0. And for the new controller you need to install a driver (in laptop SoCs, USB ports don’t want to work without it), and it only exists for Windows 7/8 (it can also be “attached” to Vista, but that’s not very interesting) . It is clear that support for Windows XP has long been anathema on the part of Microsoft, so Intel doesn’t really bother with it (it’s not without reason that it’s a full-fledged USB operation 3.0 was not implemented in the seventh series, although some discrete controllers fully work even under Windows 98) and this applies not only to USB, but fans of the “old lady” will not be envied. For Linux fans and users of various LiveCDs based on these systems, it’s easier, although an update will also be required, but for old scheme was not required. In general, on the one hand, it’s better, on the other, some habits will have to be changed.

Simpler - and more compact

So, as we see, the new chipsets have become more primitive in some respects than their predecessors. Support for video outputs has almost completely moved to the processor, there is no PCI controller, instead of three (actually) USB controllers there is only one, etc. However, if we compare consumer characteristics (the same number of high-speed interface ports), we see clear progress. What about the physical parameters of the microcircuits themselves? Everything is fine, since active redesign was also needed to transfer chips to new production standards. The fact is that, with the increasingly active transition of the range of processors to 22 nm, Intel began to release production lines designed for 32 nm, to which it was decided to transfer chipsets. Considering that previously the “standard” was the use of standards as much as 65 nm, the leap is impressive.

So, let's remember the top-end Z77 Express: a chip measuring 27 x 27 mm with a TDP of up to 6.7 W. It seems to be a little, so it would be possible not to touch it. But the Z87 fits into 23 x 22 mm. It is more clear to compare the areas: 729 and 506 mm 2, i.e. from one wafer you can get 40% more new chips than old ones. And the number of contacts has decreased, which also reduces costs. And the maximum possible heat package decreased even more significantly - to 4.1 W. And if the first is relevant only for Intel itself (while maintaining the same prices for chipsets and without the need to modify their production process, you can earn much more) and a little for other manufacturers, then the second can also be useful for end users. Not for buyers of Z87 boards, of course, where no one will notice these 2.6 W (and manufacturers will be happy to stick an elaborate cooler with a heat pipe on it - don’t go to a fortune teller). But similar changes apply to all chipsets, but in laptops and other compact systems, reducing heat generation will not hurt at least. And a reduction in linear dimensions coupled with simplification of wiring will also not be superfluous: in this segment they often fight for every millimeter. A comparison of the mobile HM77 Express and HM87 is no less indicative: 25 x 25 mm and 4.1 W versus 20 x 20 mm and 2.7 W, i.e. the dimensions were reduced even more than among desktop modifications, and at least something was squeezed out with efficiency (despite the fact that great importance was given to it before). In general, in terms of increasing the consumer attractiveness of the platform as a whole, the chosen course can only be welcomed. Moreover, it is unknown whether it would have been possible to develop an SoC with “full” characteristics without it. For example, something like the Core i7-4500U, where everything that was left uncut during the development of standard component systems was “finished”, but the chip turned out to be less than 1000 mm2 in area and with a full TDP of 15 W. In the very first implementation of the U-series of chips, two were required (and, as I remember, we already focused on the fact that the processor is smaller than the chipset), and they needed more than 20 W per pair. Trifle? It's not a small thing on a tablet. But on the desktop there was no vital need for such improvements - for him they turned out to be a side effect.

Intel Z87

Well, now let’s get acquainted in a little more detail with specific implementations of new ideas - both already supplied and predicted. Let's start, traditionally, with the top model, giving both a typical diagram and a list of the main functionality:

• support for all processors based on the Haswell core (LGA1150) when connected to these processors via the DMI 2.0 bus (with throughput 4 GB/s);
• FDI interface for receiving a fully rendered screen image from the processor and a unit for outputting this image to a display device with an analog interface;
• support for simultaneous and/or switchable operation of the built-in video core and discrete GPU(s);
• increasing the frequency of processor cores, memory and built-in GPU;
• up to 8 PCIe 2.0 x1 ports;
• 6 SATA600 ports with support for AHCI mode and functions such as NCQ, with the ability to be individually disabled, with support for eSATA and port splitters;
• the ability to organize a RAID array of levels 0, 1, 0+1 (10) and 5 with the Matrix RAID function (one set of disks can be used in several RAID modes at once - for example, on two disks you can organize RAID 0 and RAID 1, for each array its own part of the disk will be allocated);
• support for Smart Response, Rapid Start technologies, etc.;
• 14 USB ports (of which up to 6 USB 3.0) with the ability to individually disable;
• MAC controller Gigabit Ethernet and a special interface (LCI/GLCI) for connecting a PHY controller (i82579 for implementing Gigabit Ethernet, i82562 for implementing Fast Ethernet);
• High Definition Audio (7.1);
• harness for low-speed and outdated peripherals, etc.

In general, everything is very similar to the Z77 Express with the exception of some points, most of which were described above. There are only two things left behind the scenes. Firstly, as we can see, the possibility of splitting the PCIe 3.0 “processor” interface into three devices has not gone away, but any mention of Thunderbolt has disappeared - even vice versa: “Graphics” is clearly written on the diagram. Thus, we will not be surprised to encounter boards that implement three “long” slots without any bridges. The second change concerns the approach to overclocking. More precisely, there are two changes. On the LGA1155 platform it was possible to have fun with the multiplier of quad-core processors not related to the K-series - now Limited Unlocked has rested in the Bose. But overclocking on the bus has returned in a form similar to LGA2011: before feeding it to the processor, the reference frequency can be increased by 1.25 or 1.66 times. Unfortunately, our initial optimism about this information has not yet stood up to practical tests - this mechanism does not work with processors other than the K-series. In any case, this is true for the three Z87 boards we have already tested, so we can, of course, continue to hope and believe that these are all shortcomings of the earlier firmware versions, but...

Intel H87

Unlike the sixth and seventh families, there are no intermediate chipsets between the top and mass solutions. And the differences between them have become smaller - in fact, only the splitting of 16 “processor” lines is missing, so there’s nowhere to “shove” an analogue of some Z75 (especially since this chipset has remained largely a virtual product, unclaimed by manufacturers board). Even in terms of attitude to overclocking, the chipsets are close: there are no bus modifiers, but they are basically useless on the Z87, and the multiplier on some Core i7-4770K can be “twisted” on H87 boards as well. Moreover, the latest chipset also has some advantage over its more famous relative, namely support for Small Business Advantage technology, inherited from the seventh series business line. However, it cannot be considered a clear advantage for the “single enthusiast” (if only because these same “enthusiasts” of the SBA do not discuss much), and where it is needed, it is often the business lines of chipsets that have been and are being used . But the fact that its scope of application has expanded is indicative. You'll see, over time we'll inherit something else.

Intel H81

This chipset has not yet been announced, but with a high degree of probability it will appear no later than inexpensive processors under LGA1150. Moreover, after its release it can become quite popular among high-end buyers, since the new budget solution can satisfy about 80% of user requests. At the same time, it is still budget-friendly, which allows us to hope for system boards that cost $50 at retail. Why so cheap? The H61 inherited a bunch of limitations that could drive a real enthusiast into a nervous fit: one memory module per channel (i.e., only two full slots), six (not eight) PCIe x1, four SATA ports without any RAIDs, and others bourgeois excesses, 10 USB ports. On the other hand, this quantity is enough for mass-produced computers, but the quality is higher than in a budget budget LGA1155, since it includes two USB 3.0 and two SATA600. In general, what is so there was not enough H61 Although, we repeat, the chipset has not yet been officially announced, so most of the information about it is rumors and leaks, but they are very plausible.

Business line: B85, Q85 and Q87

Let's look at these models briefly, since most buyers are not interested in them. The B75 was an extremely attractive chipset for LGA1155, but mainly only because the H61 was too mutilated to make it cheaper and was not updated as part of the seventh series. H81, as we see, will support new interfaces (albeit in limited quantities due to positioning), so the B85 has only quantitative advantages over it: +2 USB 3.0, +2 SATA600 and +2 PCIe x1. True, the benefit from increasing the number is not as much as from the very presence of these interfaces, and the price is higher, so you can already go for an H87 board, fortunately there is even more of everything, and there is also SBA support. Again, built-in PCI support was an exclusive feature of the “old” business series, which often turned into a significant advantage, but now there is nothing left of it.

Here is the Q87 - the chipset is traditionally unique, since it is the only one in the entire line that supports VT-d and vPro. Otherwise almost identical to the H87. And the Q85 is a strange thing, occupying an almost intermediate position between the H87 and B85: the main difference is the optional AMT support in the Q85. Why is he so needed - don’t ask. There is a suspicion that Intel is developing the Qx5 line more “just in case,” since there are not too many boards on such models, and not only on the open market. At least not compared to Qx7. And in our area, “business solutions” most often mean not even the B-series, but something on the lowest chipset in the line (formerly G41, later H61, then, apparently, H81 will take this place), which is logical - the same SBA , in principle, could be useful in a small office, but its implementation still requires at least a Core i3, and not the Celeron popular in such offices. In general, for greater beauty and in order to improve general education, we present diagrams of systems based on these three chipsets.

But, we repeat, the likelihood of most of our readers meeting them is close to zero. With the possible exception of Q87, since VT-d is of interest not only in the corporate market, and no other chipset can boast of full support for this technology. In any case, officially - unofficially, some boards on the Z77 supported it, so this is certainly possible with the Z87. True, in the past, sometimes attempts to use such genetic engineering products did not always end successfully, so in order to avoid problems and save time, it’s easier to immediately focus on Qx7 (especially now, when processors with VT-d support still cannot be overclocked, but can tuning K-series did not support I/O virtualization and does not support it).

Total

	Z87	H87	H81	B85	Q85	Q87
Tires
PCIe 3.0 Configurations (CPU)	x16 / x8 + x8 / x8 + x4 + x4	x16	x16	x16	x16	x16
PCIe 2.0 quantity	8	8	6	8	8	8
PCI	No	No	No	No	No	No
Overclocking
CPU	Multiplier/Bus	Factor	No	No	No	No
In memory	Yes	No	No	No	No	No
GPU	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
SATA
Number of ports	6	6	4	6	6	6
Of which SATA600	6	6	2	4	4	6
AHCI	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
RAID	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	Yes
Smart Response	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	Yes
Other
Number of USB ports	14	14	10	12	14	14
Of which USB 3.0	6	6	2	4	6	6
TXT/vPro	No	No	No	No	No	Yes
Intel Standard Management	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes

If we consider LGA1150 processors as an isolated product, then they do not have any significant advantages over their predecessors in terms of consumer characteristics, as we have already written about. As we can see, this applies to chipsets to the same extent: some things have become better, some things have simply become larger, but the implementation of some things was previously more interesting. On the other hand, the separate market for processors and chipsets in the form in which it existed 15-20 years ago has actually long since disappeared: manufacturers are actively and aggressively selling “platforms” in the form of complete (laptops and other portable) and semi-finished solutions ( desktop computers). Accordingly, when developing processors or chipsets, you don’t have to think about any kind of global compatibility, simply “adjusting” one to the other and transferring more and more of the functionality directly to the processor (they still have to be produced according to strict standards, so this is economically justified , and the rejection of “long” lines of high-speed tires also simplifies the creation of the finished product). As a result, we have what we have: FDI and DMI 2.0 continue to be used to connect the processor and the chipset, but neither new processors are combined with old boards, nor vice versa. Theoretically, you can “screw” the same Z87, abandoning video outputs, to LGA1155, but it will still be new board. Well, the reverse procedure makes no sense at all.

In general, if anyone is planning to purchase Core fourth generation- he will definitely have to buy a board based on one of the eighth series chipsets. All freedom of choice is limited only to a specific model. Which one? It seems to us that out of all six chipsets, only half of the models are interesting: Z87 (a top solution for entertainment), Q87 (an equally top-end chipset for work needs) and the expected H81 in the future (cheap, but enough for many). Intermediate models, as practice shows, enjoy much more limited demand from individual buyers, simply because the contribution of the cost of the chipset to the price of the motherboard is noticeable only in budget segment(but that’s where they save every dollar), but quickly disappears in models with a retail price of around a hundred. So maybe more the right approach It would be a good idea for Intel to completely stop portraying the illusion of choice, and release only a couple of models: an expensive one (where everything is available) and a cheap one (where there is only the absolute minimum). On the other hand, with just two chipsets it will not be possible to develop a hundred motherboards in a line (which manufacturers who focus on the retail component market simply adore), so our work on describing all these twists of engineering and marketing thought will be reduced, and users of various computer forums will have to there is nothing to discuss, so let everything remain as it was for now.