Review of the motherboard Asus P8Z77 VPRO. Overview of the ASUS P8Z77-V Pro motherboard for Intel Ivy Bridge processors. Configuration of the test system

In the model ranges of most manufacturers of motherboards, there are always products with extended functionality. As opposed to fees, bypassing the minimum number of additional controllers and using exclusively the ability to expand the system logic set, such models offer support for the maximum number of modern interfaces, which is called "for all occasions." Owners of such system boards are always ready for the future upgrade and connect the latest periphery. Often the design of such products has a significant margin of strength, which makes it possible to count on significant overclocking potential. It is to such a category "motherboards" there is a heroine of today's review - ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt.

This motherboard designed to work with Intel LGA1155 processors has the richest expansion opportunities, including the ability to work with wireless networks. The model's highlight is compatible with the latest high-speed ThunderBolt interface, which provides simultaneous image output and two-channel duplex data transmission at a speed of 10 Gb / s. The remaining technical characteristics of P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt look no less interesting, we suggest familiarizing yourself with them from the corresponding table:

Model
Chipset	Intel Z77 Express
Processor connector	Socket LGA1155
Processors	Core i7, Core i5, Core i3, Pentium G, Celeron G (Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge)
Memory	4 DIMM DDR3 SDRAM 1066/1333/1600/1866/2133/2200 * / 2400 * / 2600 * (* O.C. for Ivy Bridge), maximum 32 GB
Slots PCI-E	3 PCI Express 3.0 / 2.0 x16 1 PCI Express 3.0 / 2.0 [Email Protected] 1 PCI Express 3.0 [Email Protected] 2 PCI Express 2.0 x1
Slots PCI	2 (Asmedia ASM1083)
Number of plug-in fans	5 x 4pin.
PS / 2 ports	1 (combined)
USB ports	10 x 2.0 (Intel Z77) 4 x 3.0 (2 connectors on the rear panel, Intel Z77) 2 x 3.0 (2 connectors on the back panel, asmedia asm1042)
ATA-133.	-
Serial ATA	2 channel SATA 6 Gb / s (Intel Z77) 4 channel SATA 3 Gb / s (Intel Z77) 2 channel SATA 6 Gbps (Asmedia ASM1061)
esata.	-
RAID	0, 1, 5, 10 (Intel Z77)
Built-in sound	REALTEK ALC892 (7.1, HDA)
S / PDIF.	Optic
Built-in network	Intel 82579V (Gigabit Ethernet) Qualcomm ATHEROS AR9485 (Wi-Fi 802.11b / g / n)
Firewire.	-
Com.	-
LPT.	-
BIOS / UEFI	Ami UEFI
Form factor	ATX
Dimensions, mm.	305 x 244.
Additional features	AMD Crossfirex, Memok!, Nvidia SLI, Smart Digi + Thunderbolt, USB BIOS Flashback, WiFi Go!

Contents of delivery

In store shelves, ASUS products stand out thanks to the strict and memorable packaging design. The P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt fee comes in a standard-dimensional cardboard box, decorated in a single corporate style, on the front side of which the model name is applied, as well as logos of numerous branded solutions and technologies.

The reverse surface of the box, in addition to the schematic image of the motherboard and the short specification, contains information about the support of the new Thunderbolt high-speed interface. With it, you can consistently connect up to six different devices, while the possibility of high-speed data exchange with simultaneous image output to the digital monitor.

One of the key features of ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt is the use of the SMART Digi + power subsystem with DUAL Intelligent Processor 3 digital control, which includes two separate controllers: EPU and TPU. EPU chip (Energy Processing Unit) is responsible for the energy saving features, and TPU (Turbov Processing Unit) provides advanced overclocking capabilities. In this case, the digital Digi + power system complies with the Intel VRD 12.5 standard and offers flexible power management capabilities. The Fan Xpert 2 feature offers intelligent fan control for maximum cooling efficiency of the system unit components. Interesting features offers Wi-Fi Go!, Which turns a personal computer into a full-fledged access point or DLNA-hub. Also Wi-Fi Go! Allows you to use a smartphone or tablet as a remote control. On this feature, P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt is not exhausted, all of them will be discussed in detail during the review process, but for now, go to the set of additional accessories.

The new accessories set includes:

plug on the rear panel I / O Shield;
four SATA 6 Gb / s cables;
set of Q-Connectors Connectors;
nVIDIA SLI bridge:
bar for output to the rear panel of two ports USB 3.0 and one ESATA;
module Wireless Wi-Fi Go!
wi-Fi antenna;
DVD drives with drivers and software;
user's manual;
instructions for Wi-Fi Go!
brochure with a description of the company software.

In addition to the familiar accessories, such as SATA interface cables or NVIDIA SLI bridge, you should note the presence of a wireless network adapter together with an external antenna, as well as a plank for output to the rear panel of additional ports. Next, you will see that the last accessory will not be superfluous.

Design

The ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt motherboard can be attributed to models with exceptional expansion capabilities. Because of this, the installation of components is very dense, free spaces on the RSV, the dimensions of which are 305x244 mm, are practically absent. However, the location of all nodes is quite convenient not to cause problems during self-assembly of the system unit. First of all, massive radiators of the VRM cooling system are thrown into the eyes.

The P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt is based on the Intel Z77 Express system logic, which provides support for any Intel processors performed by LGA1155, including overclocker models from the "K" series. However, some functions will be available only when installing 22-nm "stones". In terms of supporting RAM support, the motherboard boasts four DIMM DDR3 SDRAM slots, which are able to ensure the operation of RAM modules at a frequency up to 2600 MHz in overclocking mode. The total amount of RAM can reach 32 GB. As for the organization of the video subsystem, the enthusiasts planning a multiple video card in the AMD CrossFirex or NVIDIA SLI configuration can use two PCI Express 2.0 / 3.0 x16 slots, which automatically switch to mode [Email Protected] In the case of installing two graphic adapters. To the third PCI Express 3.0 x16 connector, only four lines were summed up, but its work is possible only when using Intel Ivy Bridge processors, and the second PCI Express 2.0 / 3.0 x16 connector switches to mode [Email Protected] Thus, in the AMD CRSSFIREX bundle, the user can combine three graphic accelerators according to the x8 + x4 + x4 schema, or use the bottom connector to install the extension boards, demanding interface bandwidth. Holders of 32-nm processors are devoid of such a possibility, they will have to limit the first two PCI Express 2.0 / 3.0 x16 slots. To expand functionality, the motherboard has two PCI EXPRESS 2.0 X1 connectors and two PCIs, the ASMEDIA ASM 1083 controller is responsible.

To connect the periphery of ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt offers six USB 3.0 ports and ten USB 2.0. It is noteworthy that the latter are solely in the form of internal connectors located on the printed circuit board, and only four USB 3.0 ports are displayed on the rear panel. The pair of connectors are connected to the ASMEDIA ASM1042 chip, and the two others to the system logic of Intel Z77 Express. Two more devices with support for the audit of the universal serial tire can be connected to the internal connectors. Note that for ports connected to ASMEDIA ASM1042, you can activate the UASP (USB ATTACHED SCSI Protocol) mode, which in some cases can provide a significant increase in bandwidth, but only if such a mode is supported by the peripheral device.

The Disk Motherboard Subsystem is based on the capabilities of the Intel Z77 Express chipset, which provides the operation of two SATA 6 Gb / s channels and four SATA 3 Gb / s. Of the additional features, it should be noted the association of drives in RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 arrays, as well as supporting branded technologies intel Smart Response and Intel Rapid Start, which are only available to SSD owners. Those users who have chipset ports will not seem enough, can connect two more devices to SATA 6 Gb / s connectors, which are connected to the ASMEDIA ASM1061 chip. One of the channels of this controller can be used to output ESATA 6 Gbps port on the rear panel of the system unit using a plank supplied in the kit.

As a sound subsystem P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt, a widespread 7.1-channel HD-audio codec Realtek ALC892 is used, which also ensures the operation of the optical S / PDIF output to connect to digital receiver. The Intel 82579V controller is responsible for the operation of the local network, which, thanks to the special Network iControl software, supports the bandwidth priorities of various types of network traffic. In addition, the "motherboard" has support for wireless networks of IEEE 802.11b / g / n standards, which is provided by the miniature WiFi GO!, Mounted in a special connector on the rear panel. The AzureWave NE186H adapter is hiding under the metal casing, based on the Qualcomm ATHEROS AR9485 chipset.

One of the main competitive advantages of the novelties is the support of the high-speed ThunderBolt interface - is implemented using the Intel Z208T008F chip. For normal operation, this controller for connecting to the chipset requires four PCI-E 2.0 lines. However, this mode is reached only if there is a refusal of the use of additional SATA 6 Gbps and USB 3.0 controllers, as well as the second PCI-E 2.0 x1 slot. Alas, it will have to come to terms with the limited possibilities of system logic.

On the rear panel of ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt can be found:

one combined PS / 2 connector;
four USB 3.0 ports;
video outputs D-sub, DVI-D and HDMI;
optical output S / PDIF;
rJ-45 connector;
six analog audio outputs;
one Thunderbolt interface.

On the rear panel there is a complete set of connectors for displaying the image from the video card built into processors, and the holders of 22-nm models can enjoy the simultaneous connection of three monitors. In addition, system logic allows you to flexibly use the resources of the integrated video card and the discrete graphics accelerator using the LUCIDU Virtu MVP technology. Thus, the configuration of the rear panel allows you to almost completely disclose the possibilities of expanding the novelty. However, it is impossible not to mark a small number of USB ports and the absence of the ESATA port. Fortunately, the motherboard package includes a plank, outputting the corresponding interfaces on the rear panel of the system unit.

P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt's power subsystem deserves a separate mention. This node is designed with such a margin of strength that they will envy other "overclocker" models of competitors. Judge yourself: additional power is supplied via an eight-contact EPS12V connector, and the voltage converter of the central processor is built on a 12-channel circuit. At the same time, eight phases nourish the computing kernels, and the remaining four form voltages for an integrated video card and a built-in northern bridge. The node is controlled by a pair of digital PWM controllers: ASP1101 and ASP1000C. Alas, the marking does not allow you to accurately install their models and characteristics, however, it is known that the voltage converter node supports control of the switching frequency of power elements, compensating for the voltage drop Loadline Calibration and overheat protection, and in the moments of downtime, part of the VRM channels can be disconnected to increase Efficiency.

The complexity of the design forced the developers to transfer part of field transistors to the opposite direction of the printed circuit board.

A pair of massive radiators is responsible for cooling the power elements of the voltage converter. Due to their significant surface of heat scattering for the temperature of the power subsystem, you can not worry. Nevertheless, we recommend organizing the movement of air flows inside the system unit, especially when overclocking the central processor.

Radiators have reliable screw mountings, and the amplifying plates together provide removal heat removal from semiconductor devices located on the back of the printed circuit board.

The system logic microcircuit is cooled quite large, but a flat radiator. In any mode and at any load, such a design perfectly copes with heat removal.

Of course, the effective work of any, even the best radiators directly depends on good ventilation inside the system unit. For these purposes, ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt offers as many as five connectors for connecting fans, and they all allow you to control the rotation speed by PWM.

Among the original design solutions, the novelty should not not be noted the presence of EPU and TPU hardware switches, with which the power saving and automatic acceleration modes are activated. Next to them, you can see the BIOS_FLBK button, which is responsible for including the ASUS BIOS FlashDack firmware update technology. To firmware a control microcode, it suffices to connect the drive into a free USB port and press the appropriate button, and, for the operation of the update function, the presence of a central processor and the RAM modules are not required.

We draw your attention to the OV_CPU / DRAM jumper, located in the lower left corner of the printed circuit board, which raises the limit to increase the voltage on the central processor and the RAM modules. This feature will be useful to enthusiasts using powerful cooling systems, and for owners of air coolers, it is not recommended to experiment with jumper to avoid failure of expensive equipment. At the same time, unlike most models developed for enthusiasts, P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt is devoid of hardware buttons for turning on and overload, as well as the POST code indicator. The lack of the latter will partly compensate for the presence of LED indicators that allow you to monitor the initialization process of the main subsystems of the motherboard during the download.

In general, familiarity with the design of the motherboard left the most pleasant impressions. The design of ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt looks thoughtful, and the quality of manufacture is at the highest level. We especially liked the implementation of the central processor voltage converter and the structure of the cooling system. The solid stock of the strength of these nodes allows you to count on a good overclocking potential. With regard to the possibilities of expansion, the support of wireless networks and the newest interface of Thunderbolt can be attributed to the undoubted benefits of the product. However, four USB ports, even if the third revision, it seemed clearly not enough. Partially this deficiency can be compensated using a complete plank, which displays two additional USB 3.0 connector to the rear panel.
UEFI SETUP.

The ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt firmware is based on the AMI microcode, as in most modern models, instead of the obsolete BIOS, UEFI is used. A distinctive feature of the Asus motherboard user interface is the presence of the EZ mode mode, which allows you to control the basic parameters of the system and manage the basic firmware capabilities. So, in the main EZ Mode window, the current date and time, brief information about the firmware version, the parameters of the central processor and memory modules are displayed. Here are the readings of the system monitoring sensors, the controls of the power saving mode and the initialization of loading devices are displayed.

For the convenience of the user on the hot key F3, a transition is assigned to the shortcut menu, which provide quick access to the thin settings of the system board, and pressing the F8 button calls the loading device selection menu. Undoubtedly, the EZ Mode mode can be useful for visual control of the system status, but for full-fledged management users will be forced to use Advanced Mode.

Advanced Mode mode offers all possible motherboard settings. For example, the Main tab allows you to set the date and time, as well as set the menu display language, and the list available is Russian localization.

The overwhelming majority of options associated with the acceleration of P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt are located in the firmware section called Ai Tweaker. The user is available to control the BCLK frequency, multipliers of computing nuclei and all possible settings of the RAM subsystem.

We draw your attention to the ASUS MULTICORE ENHANCEMENT parameter, which, after activating the X.M.P. profile. For RAM modules, the algorithm of the Intel Turbo Boost technology changes slightly increasing the system performance. During tests, this option was disabled in order to ensure the correct result.

UEFI SETUP The participants of today's review has developed capabilities for the management of feeding voltages on all major nodes of the system board. For a central processor, two methods of installing Vcore are available: dynamic when the user sets the growth to a standard voltage, as well as fixed when the value is indicated explicitly. Note that only in the first case there is a full-fledged work of energy saving technologies.

We remind you that with the help of Jumper OV_CPU / DRAM, you can significantly increase the limits of changing the voltages on the central processor and modules of RAM, however, we give ranges and a step of changing parameters for a normal mode:

Parameter	Voltage range, in	Step, B.
CPU Core Voltage (Manual)	0,8—1,92	0,005
CPU Core Voltage (Offset)	0,005—0,635	0,005
Dram Voltage.	1,2—1,92	0,005
Vccsa Voltage.	0,8—1,7	0,00625
CPU Pll Voltage.	1,2—2,2	0,00625
PCH Voltage.	0,8—1,7	0,00625
Vttdrr Voltage.	0,625—1,1	0,00625
DRAM DATA REF Voltage On Cha	0.395x-0,6300x	0.005x
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage On Cha	0.395x-0,6300x	0.005x
DRAM DATA REF Voltage On CHB	0.395x-0,6300x	0.005x
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage On CHB	0.395x-0,6300x	0.005x

Thin settings of the RAM subsystem are located in the DRAM TIMING CONTROL submenu. According to the possibilities of optimizing the speed of operational memory ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt, nothing is inferior to the best overclocking models. The user can manage basic delays, as well as a multitude of secondary settings.

Managing Intel Turbo Boost functions and the power saving of the CPU Power Management can be performed in the CPU Power Management subsection.

Finally, all additional parameters of the digital power subsystem are focused on the Digi + Power Control submenu. It is here that the Load Line Calibration function is managed, which is responsible for countering voltage drop in the load, the frequency of switching the VRM power elements and the algorithm for disconnecting unused voltage converter channels to the moments of downtime. And in this submenu, you can enlarge the current protection limits (CPU CPUBILITY) and even manage the Power Response Control CPU parameter that controls the switching time between different states of P-STATES.

From the section of the acceleration firmware, go to the Advanced tab, which allows you to manage all the capabilities of the system board expansion. It is here that the specific functions of the central processor, system logic and additional controllers are included.

The CPU Configuration submenu, as follows from the name, is responsible for the subtle configuration of such processor functions as virtualization, hardware protection against viruses. Among other things, the user can control the number of active computing nuclei.

The PCH Configuration tab allows you to activate specific features such as Intel Rapid Start and Intel Smart Connect. Recall that the first offers a decrease in the readiness time of the system after switching on, and the second allows you to receive updates from social networks even after turning off the operating system.

The control of the disk subsystem is in the SATA Configuration subsection, and the System Agent Configuration submenu contains the settings of the Northern Bridge integrated to the central processor, as well as the built-in video card.

The ThunderBolt interface is dedicated to a separate submenu, which is called - Intel (R) Thunderbolt.

A USB Configuration tab is responsible for configuring USB ports, and the control and most of the optional controller parameters are in the Onboard Device Configuration subsection.

The P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt firmware has advanced hardware monitoring features. In the monitor menu of the menu, the user can control two temperatures and four voltages, as well as monitor the readings and control the speeds of all connected fans.

The impeller rotation frequency can be tied to changing the temperature of the central processor, and the user can choose one of the preset profiles, or set the work algorithm at its discretion.

The BOOT tab focuses options responsible for the download process, and in the Tools menu, the user is available to the firmware update features using the EZ Flash utility. In addition, the UEFI SETUP system board allows you to save up to eight profiles with user settings, and an external USB drive can be used to store files.

As a result, the ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt motherboard settings menu possesses all the necessary functions for successful overclocking, so that the "Hardvarian" experiments will not refuse themselves in the pleasure of a multi-hour study of all the subtleties of UEFI SETUP. At the same time, the firmware has a simple and logical structure, so even newcomers will easily configure all the necessary basic parameters. However, in high quality and convenience of the control microcode of the ASUS system board, we no doubt.

Complete PO

Recently, manufacturers of system boards pay more and more attention to the software component of their products. This is not surprising, since many users prefer to perform most acceleration operations and fine-tuning performance directly from the operating system. It is for such a category that the ASUS AI Suite II program is intended, consisting of independent modules united by a single user interface.

To control frequencies, voltages and coefficients of multiplication of computing cores, "Softinka" TURBOV EVO serves. It is also responsible for activating the function of automatic overclocking. Despite the good opportunities, the program is not deprived of a serious shortage - the user cannot control the frequency and delays of RAM modules.

For numerous digital power subsystem parameters, the Digi + Power Control module corresponds to the DIGI + POWER CONTROL module, which allows you to configure the operation of the Load Lone Calibration function, adjust the switching frequency of the power elements, set the algorithm for disconnecting unused voltage converter channels and much more.

The settings of the motherboard energy saving features are collected in the EPU program, which not only allows you to set a performance profile, but also displays the current power consumed by the central processor and even shows a decrease in CO2 greenhouse gas emissions obtained due to electricity saving.

To configure fan operation as part of ASUS AI Suite II, there is a Fan Xpert module 2. At first, the user is invited to identify and calibrate all the "Carlsons" installed. After that, you can choose one of the three pre-installed performance profiles or manually set the control algorithm depending on the temperature of the components.

The PROBE II utility is designed to monitor monitoring and alerts to achieve their critical values.

This module also allows you to keep statistics of hardware monitoring sensors with the ability to build graphs in real time.

The USB Charger + function optimizes the process of charge of mobile devices, and, for the most common gadgets, there are profiles that ensure the highest possible charge of the battery recovery process.

To activate the acceleration technologies of the universal serial tire, the USB 3.0 Boost utility is used, which allows you to use UASP mode, providing up to 170% speed gains in comparison with the standard mode. Alas, in the test laboratory there are no devices supporting USB Attached SCSI Protocol, so we could not check the effectiveness of this function.

Finally, the ASUS AI Suite II includes the Network IControl module that is responsible for managing the network connections. In addition to the counter transmitted and received data, as well as the task of bandwidth priorities, depending on the type of network traffic, this program allows you to enable TSR mode without delay, which allows you to reduce lags that prevent the gameplay in network battles, and also automatically support the connection PPPoe and much more.

In addition, the ASUS AI Suite II has the function of automatically updating the motherboard firmware and displaying detailed information about the main components of the system. Thus, the complete software supplied with the ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt allows you to solve a wide range of tasks for setting up the system board. However, Turbov EVO acceleration control module lacks RAM parameter control functions.
Acid potential

As we assumed, with the acceleration of the Intel Core i5-2500K test processor, the ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt system fee did not have any problems. First of all, we decided to assess the safety margin of the increase in the basic frequency. When using new items, we managed to increase the value of BCLK to 107 MHz. In practice, this means the possibility of additional 7% of the speed of performance for the owners of the CPU, in which the multiplication coefficient is locked.

The ability of the heroine of today's review in terms of overclocking modules of RAM also turned out to be quite good. For the Silicon Power SP004GBLYU160S2B test kit, the board provided normal operation at a frequency of 2133 MHz with delays 9-10-9-28-2T, which is only slightly less than the best results achieved.

As for the maximum acceleration of the laboratory Intel Core i5-2500K, after a short selection of parameters in the P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt firmware, we also saw the coveted 4800 MHz. To achieve this result, the base frequency was recorded at 100 MHz, the multiplication coefficient of computing kernels was increased to 48, and 0.125 V. The Load Load Calibration parameter is added to the VCORE voltage, which is responsible for compensating for the voltage drop in the load, was set to medium.

With such settings, the system retained absolute stability even during testing in the LINX program, and the voltage on the processor kernels was kept at the level of 1.43 V. We note that at the moments of downtime, the energy saving technologies performed perfectly correctly performed their work, synchronously reducing the frequency and voltage on the central processor.

Finally, we checked the correctness of the automatic acceleration function, which can be activated by the TPU microswitch, from the AI \u200b\u200bSuite II program interface or with the appropriate option in the motherboard firmware. Regardless of the method, the result remained unchanged: the frequency of the processor was 4240 MHz at a voltage of Vcore 1.352 V. At the same time, the operational memory worked in 1346 MHz with timings of 9-9-9-24-1t.

Of course, the result of the operation of the automatic acceleration is far from the one that can be achieved as a result of a manual selection of parameters. However, this method can be at first used by newbies, which only comprehend the "Asees" of overclocking, or by users who are not at all wishing to understand the overclocking of overclocking.

As you can see, ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt has demonstrated a great safety margin, confidently coping both with an increase in the base frequency and with the acceleration of RAM and the central processor modules. The key to success, in our opinion, became the well-thought-out structure of the power subsystem and the rich capabilities of the control microcode. At the same time, we perfectly understand that for an objective assessment of the reserve of the "Mother's" strength based on the system logic of Intel Z77 Express, more appropriate to use the latest Intel Ivy Bridge, which are still in an increasing deficit in our laboratory.

Test stand

To assess the acceleration potential and the level of speed of the novelty, the test stand of the next configuration was collected:

processor: Intel Core i5-2500K (3.3 GHz);
cooler: Zalman CNPS10X Flex (120 mm fan, 1800 rpm);
memory: Silicon Power SP004GBLYU160S2B (2x2GB, PC3-12800, CL9-9-9-24);
video card: MSI N480GTX LIGHTNING (GeForce GTX 480);
hard disk: samsung HD502HJ (500 GB, 7200 rpm, 16 MB);
power supply: SEASONIC X-650 (650 W).

ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt made up three excellent fees that tested us earlier: ASRock Z77 Extreme6, Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD5H and MSI Z77A-GD80. Before testing, we updated firmware on all "motherlings" to the following versions:

ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt UEFI SETUP 1406 dated 07/31/2012;
ASRock Z77 Extreme6 UEFI 1.70 dated 06/11/2012;
Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD5H UEFI SETUP F8 31.05.2012;
MSI Z77A-GD80 UEFI SETUP 1.1 dated 12.06.2012.

RAM worked at a frequency of 1600 MHz with delays 9-9-9-24-1t at a voltage of 1.6 V. Processor energy saving technologies and Intel Turbo Boost were activated. Perhaps it makes some distortion in the final results, but, such a mode is most closely close to everyday use.

As usual, the test "hardware" worked by the Microsoft Windows 7 Enterprise 64 Bit operating system control (90-day introductory version), which was updated to SP1 through the Windows Update service. For the video card, NVIDIA GeForce 285.62 drivers were installed, and for system logic and Central processor Intel Info Update Utility 9.3.0.1019 from 03.05.2012 and Intel Management Engine 8.0.10.1464 dated 21.05.2012, respectively. The paging file and UAC were disabled, no more modernization was carried out.

As for the measurement methodology, we still repeat each test at least three times, after which we calculate the average arithmetic value. If any of the result differs significantly from the other two, we repeat the measurements before getting a normal value. A set of test programs such:

AIDA64 2.00.1700 (Cache & Memory Benchmark);
Futuremark PCMark 7;
Futuremark 3DMark 11;
Farcry 2;
COLIN MCRAE: DIRT 3.

Test results

The standard set of test applications includes Cache & Memory Benchmark from the composition of the AIDA64 informational and diagnostic package, with which it is convenient to measure low-level performance of the motherboard RAM subsystem. This allows you to evaluate the speed in real applications demanding to the speed of operation with the RAM.

Investigation of productivity in the complex test programmatic package Futuremark PCMark 7 gives an idea of \u200b\u200bthe speed of motherboard when performing everyday tasks, such as resource-intensive 3D games, processing multimedia content, work in office applications and Internet.

In the overall standings, the results of ASRock Z77 Extreme6 are allocated, which with a minimal advantage is ahead of the rivers. The Motherboard ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt ranks third from four. Nevertheless, the difference between the participants is so small that it is easy to write off on the measurement error.

In all test scenarios, the components of the integral performance indicator, only the results of the subtestation of Creativity are allocated, in which the minimum variety is observed. In all other groups of tests, the rivals demonstrate the same productivity.

The synthetic test application Futuremark 3DMark 11 is designed to estimate the speed of the personal computer in modern resource-intensive 3D games using API DirectX 11 and accelerate the calculations of a realistic physical model. To reduce the effect of the performance of the graphics accelerator on the overall score, we traditionally use the Performance settings profile.

Thanks to the confident passage of all scenarios, the novelty won a well-deserved victory in this difficult synthetic test application. Of course, in real gaming applications, it can provide a victory in competitions, where everyone's "parrot" is important.

In addition to synthetic applications, we spent tests in two 3D Games: Farcry 2 Shooter and Colin Mcrae Round Simulator: DIRT 3. To reduce the frequency of frame change frequency against video card productivity, we set 1680x1050 resolution and high, but not maximum image quality settings without Activation of full-screen smoothing.

In both games, all testing participants showed the same results, and the difference of 2-3 frames per second can be written off to the inaccuracy of measurement. However, any of the models can provide comfortable gameplay.

At first glance, we fully fulfilled the tests program, which are quite enough for an objective assessment of the performance of the novelty. However, at the end of today's review, we decided to check the ThunderBolt interface speed on the ASUS motherboard and compare the results with the data obtained during the acquaintance with MSI Z77A-GD80. Since at our disposal was again the external data warehouse of Western Digital My Book Thunderbolt Duo, we used the same testing technique. Using the built-in Windows 7, WD20EURS physical disks were combined into an RAID 0 array, after which the Intel Nas PerfPmance Tollkit 1.7.1 software product was measured by the speed of operations characteristic of the external drive.

When copying the data array, the drive, regardless of the motherboard used, demonstrates the same good results. In this case, ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt provides a slightly large speed in reading files from external storage.

conclusions

Surely, many of you are familiar with the tourist service on the ALL Inclusive system, when from the whole list of services every rest chooses exactly what the most meets its needs. At the same time, the cost of the service is paid in advance, but no one returns money for unused services. Such associations have arisen during the consideration of P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt. This board has a full-spectrum of all necessary interfaces, including support for the latest high-speed Thunderbolt and wireless networks, has a good level of speed and excellent acceleration potential. The UEFI Setup of the novelty has a user-friendly interface and rich functionality, and the set of complete software perfectly complements the capabilities of the system board control from the MS Windows OS environment. In our opinion, ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt is perfect for both the use of a powerful game PC and to build a productive workstation or a test bench for acceleration experiments. Against this background, not the most democratic cost, which at the time of writing the article was about 245 US dollars, does not look overestimated.

SYNTEX - SEASONIC X-650 Power Supply.

As a rule, the ASUS motherboards, denoted by the Litera Pro, are intermediate solutions between the middle class and older products, it also happened in the battery line based on the Intel Z77 Express system logic. On the one hand, there is a cheaper P8Z77-V, on the other - more expensive P8Z77-V Deluxe, and P8Z77-V Pro is somewhere in the middle. In the framework of the laboratory, P8Z77-V Deluxe and Sabertooth Z77 were tested (the design of which is almost a copy of P8Z77-V), so that the product "above average" will compare with.

Let's start the review as usual with packaging and delivery set.

Packaging and equipment

ASUS P8Z77-V Pro comes in a medium-sized cardboard box. The packaging design is typically for most modern ASUS system boards: dark tones prevail, in stock Contrast text with the product name and promotional logos describing the main features of the model.

On the reverse side, the fee is shown and its main characteristics are listed. Nowhere else and the continuation of the advertising description of branded technologies: most of the rear ranked exactly the advertisement of various kinds.

When opening the box, the first thing appears directly p8z77-V pro, laid in an anti-static package on a separate cardboard pallet:

After his removal, along with the motherboard at the bottom of the box, you can detect the package:

It includes:

Stub on the rear panel;
Four SATA cables, two of which are declared as SATA 6 Gb / s, and two more - like SATA 3 Gb / s. All four plume corners;
Brief instructions for installing fees in several languages, including Russian;
Detailed user manual in English;
Instructions for setting up Wi-Fi module;
Wi-Fi module, as well as an antenna to it;
Flexible SLI Bridge;
K-Connector adapter set;
Body plug with two USB 2.0 ports and one ESATA port;
Disk with software.

The delivery kit cannot be called a meager: there are typical Q-connector adapters for ASUS, in stock Wi-Fi module, and the plug on the rear panel is equipped with a soft gasket. But you can find fault: for the product cost ~ 6700-6800 rubles I would like to see more SATA loops, not to mention a stubble with USB 3.0 enclosures (instead of USB 2.0). You can note the standard ignoring bridges for Crossfirex.

Design and Features of the Board

ASUS P8Z77-V Pro is performed in the sizes of the ATX form factor (305x244 mm).

The fact that the model is not elder in the lineup can be seen with a naked eye: there are naked pads with non-walled controllers, the radiators of the cooling system are not connected by the heat pipe, there is no button on / rebooting the system. Externally, the motherboard is still more like P8Z77-V than on P8Z77-V Deluxe, it is especially noticeable to configure the expansion slots. In comparison with P8Z77-V, you can detect a larger number of USB 3.0 ports and a reinforced processor power converter.

While the front side of the board is noticeable, it is noticeable that the screw mounting of the VRM cooling radiators is used, and the opposite photo becomes clear why the screws were visible there: the radiators are attached through the clamping plate, and the screws are screwed to it, creating a kind of "sandwich" . Screw mount was used for the chipset radiator, but there it is already more familiar. Thanks to the last photo, you can find out the manufacturer of the processor connector - this is Foxconn.

Location of elements:

1.	ATX POWER CONNECTORS (24-PIN EATXPWR, 8-PIN EATX12V)
2.	LGA1155 CPU Socket.
3.	CPU and Chassis Fan Connectors (4-Pin CPU_FAN, 4-PIN CPU_OPT, 4-PIN CHA_FAN 1-4)
4.	DDR3 Dimm Slots.
5.	Memok! Switch
6.	Intel Z77 USB 3.0 Connector
7.	Asmedia Serial ATA 6.0 GB / S Connectors (7-Pin SATA6G_E1 / E2)
8.	Intel Z77 Serial ATA 6.0 GB / S Connectors (7-Pin SATA6G_1 / 2)
9.	Intel Z77 Serial ATA 3.0 GB / S Connectors (7-Pin SATA3G_3-6)
10.	ONBOARD LED
11.	Epu Switch
12.	TPU SWITCH
13.	Clear Cmos.
14.	System Panel Connector (20-8 Pin Panel)
15.	USB 2.0 Connectors (10-1 Pin USB78, USB910, USB1112, USB1314)
16.	USB BIOS FlashBack Button
17.	Front Panel Audio Connector (10-1 Pin AAFP)
18.	Digital Audio Connector (4-1 PIN SPDIF_OUT)

On the image of the ASUS P8Z77-V Pro elements scheme, you can detect the System Start LED LEDs (CPU_LED, DRAM_LED, VGA_LED and BOOT_DEVICE_LED), which are consistently light up during POST passage and in some ways may be a substitute for the POST code indicator.

Under DDR3, the memory is splashing four slots that are equipped with latches only from above:

Since the graphic PCI-E x16 is located at the height of the second extension connector (the top / first is PCI-E X1), the use of latches only on one side looks unjustified. If you have latches on both sides, access to the RAM slots would be preserved with a video card installed in the system, but the memory modules would be fixed more tightly, and in general the double-sided latch is more convenient.

The manufacturer stated modes of operation DDR3 1066 / 1333/1600 / 1866 (acceleration) / 2133 (acceleration) / 2200 (acceleration) / 2400 (acceleration) of MHz. The list of the modes is not complete (if we talk about the Ivy Bridge processors), but in fact there are all the factors available to the processor for the frequency of memory. The maximum amount of 32 GB indicates the support of the 8 GB DDR3 module board.

To activate the Dual Channel mode, you need to install the planks in the slots of the same color, that is, either in 1/3 or in 2/4. To ensure the greatest compatibility of modules and stability in acceleration, the manufacturer is recommended primarily to use blue connectors, that is, 2/4.

The role of the system logic set is assigned to one microcircuit - Intel Z77 Express:

At the moment it is a senior chipset for the LGA 1155 platform.

Configuration of expansion slots:

Slots from top to bottom:

PCI-E 2.0 x1;
PCI-E 3.0 x16;
PCI-E 2.0 x1
PCI-E 3.0 x8;
PCI-E 2.0 x4.

On the motherboard there was a place for seven expansion slots, which is the maximum amount for ATX form factor.

The configuration of the expansion connectors is well thought out, coinciding on the P8Z77-V. One of the PCI-E X1 is located above the top graphic slot, which allows it to use independently of the size and number of video cards. Two graphic connectors are spaced for a sufficient distance, allowing the installation of tandem from large-sized cards.

ASMEDIA ASM1480 is located above the top graphic port:

They share sixteen PCI-E lines coming from the processor between two graphic slots, allowing them to work according to formula or 16/0, or 8/8. Chip data support the version of the PCI-E 3.0 interface, although it is only available if Ivy Bridge processors are used.

Also on the board are two microcircuits of the ASMEDIA ASM1440:

One microcircuit is located above the southern bridge, the second is under the top graphic slot.

They are responsible for dividing PCI-E lines coming from a set of system logic. Four lines are divided between the lower port PCI-E X4, two PCI-E X1 ports, as well as between the additional USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gbps controllers. Three modes of operation are available: AUTO, X4 MODE and X1 MODE. In AUTO mode, the PCI-E X4 slot is limited to one line, both PCI-E X1 slots are turned off, additional USB 3.0 controllers (USB3_E34 ports) and SATA 6 Gb / s (SATA6G_E12 ports) are available. In the X4 MODE mode, the PCI-E X4 slot receives four lines, additional controllers and PCI-E X1 ports are disconnected. In the X1 MODE mode, the PCI-E x4 slot is limited to one line, both PCI-E X1 are active, USB 3.0 controller is available, while additional SATA ports remain inactive.

Such a confusing scheme in fact is a consequence of the abundance of third-party controllers and a limited number of PCI-Express lines. It may be wiserfully to implement a scheme used on Gigabyte GA-Z77x-UD5H, when all three full-size PCI-E slots originate from the processor and can work according to the 8 + 4 + 4 scheme. Then the lines from Intel Z77 Express would have enough for other "strapping".

In the IT industry there has been a remarkable trend: the name of the manufacturer make exclusive, often top products, while positions on the market are determined by the level of sales of mass solutions, sometimes do not have anything common with Hi-End. How appropriate to this representation "Basic" ASUS P8Z77-VBased on the Intel Z77 Express chipset (LGA1155), we will try to figure it out in this material.

To begin with - a few words about segmentation. The line of motherboard companies ASUS is represented by several series: Maximus. - top cards with maximum functionality and explicit orientation on advanced users, gamers, overclockers; Single models Sabertooth "Military reliable" and have a very extraordinary design; M.-Seria is solutions in the Micro-ATX form factor; V. - the most massive and diverse; WS. (Workstation) - products for creating highly productive workstations; Recently appeared I.- payments whose characteristic feature is ultra-compact dimensions (Mini-ITX). The P8Z77-V model is the base in the "folk" segment. At the same time, it is quite functional to satisfy the requests of even demanding users.

Set, design and features of layout

Motherboard ASUS P8Z77-V Comes in the packaging characteristic of this manufacturer.

Delivery set In addition to the traditional set of cables, plugs on the rear panel and operating manuals include SLI-bridge (by the way, very rare lately), a wireless communication module and a Wi-Fi antenna.

The board itself is made in the usual blue-black tones.

The line of models on the basis of the Z77 chipset was freshed by changing the design of radiators - direct angles perfectly emphasize the product status. The power subsystem is closed by two separate coolers (bang, finally cost without "marketing" heat pipes!), On the reverse side of the MOSFET assembly is contacted with heat dissipation plates.

On the board itself there was a place with three slots PCI-E x16 (two lower ones can only be used at half speed and below, depending on the configuration), two PCI-E X1 and, which is very noteworthy, two PCIs.

The back panel is ascetic, although in reality contains a set of connectors with modern standards: PS / 2, two USB 2.0, four USB 3.0, RJ45, S / PDIF, a full range of video outputs and connectors for connecting an eight-channel audio system. A contact group for installing a wireless communication module is well noted. By the way about video outputs - the presence of DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort will allow you to very flexibly configure the image output to the monitor and, if necessary, do without a discrete video card.

On the board there was a place for eight SATA ports (half of them have declared data transfer rate of 6 GB / s).

Near the 24-pin power connector is displaced, the Memok button (allows you to load secure DRAM settings), located there, the LED reflects the passage of the initialization procedure of the modules, if necessary, signaling problems in the operation of RAM.

Note, in contrast to more sophisticated models, ASUS P8Z77-V is content with only one eight-type CPU power connector (however, it is sufficient even with intensive processor acceleration).

Near the pads to connect the front panel buttons are two microswitch - TPU and EPU, activating the corresponding technologies when working board.

In work

To check the capabilities of the ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard, we conducted a series of tests aimed at finding out the capabilities of the system settings and the ability to work in forced mode.

Before starting to test, briefly stop at the UEFI.

Briefly because the cardinal differences of the firmware of the model under consideration from the ASUS used in other solutions is not observed.

It was pleasant to surprise the limits of adjusting the supply voltages and the settings that are responsible for the speed of the memory subsystem - they are similar to it, previously considered by us and received very flattering reviews.

Traditionally, we are welcoming a welcome screen saver containing only the basic settings - beginners and ordinary users will see what to see and in minor limits change the parameters of the CPU operation, the speed of rotation of the fan, etc. The road to more accurate system setup opens the F7 key - followed by the output of the classic BIOS menu based on the AMI microcode.

Many users will surely be interested in the nuances of the installation of large supercouplers on this fee. In this regard, ASUS engineers have tried: the elements of the power subsystem are at a sufficient distance from the processor connector, and the radiators despite the massiveness are quite low to somehow prevent the computer assembly process. Perhaps the memory module mounted in the near socket slot will be written the fan of a huge "tower", but this is already a constructive feature of CO.

A quick comparison of the speed of the PC collected on the basis of the board under consideration and the Maximus V Gene model, the differences showed no 2D, nor in 3D tests. However, it is quite natural, given that both fees use the same chipset - Intel Z77.

Penetrating an informative UEFI and a gorgeous range of adjusting the basic parameters responsible for the speed, the first thing we began to accelerate the RAM. Unfortunately, attempts were not crowned with special success - the DDR3-2400 divider turned out to be inoperable, in the DDR3-2133 mode, the board did not always start, the OS was loaded each time. Installation of a lower memory multiplier and overclocking for a base frequency was able to overcome the mark of 2000 MHz (8-11-8-24-1T), but the rewarded overclockers should wait for an ASUS P8Z77-V firmware update that eliminates this defects. However, it is possible that in the product under consideration there is a place to be an artificial restriction of overclocking potential (it is necessary to somehow diversify top products, however?).

At the same time, acceleration on BCLK pleased - we could easily submit 109.6 MHz.

In the process of multiple overloads and changes to the UEFI setting, there is extremely enough POST indicator, which was found only in more expensive and aggressive products. On the initialization of CPU and RAM indicate only LEDs located near the slots for RAM. Despite the use of Memok and BIOS flashback buttons (It is not difficult to guess what they answer), an archaic jumper is used to reset the firmware settings, and not duplicating on the rear panel. Therefore, to overclock the PC based on ASUS P8Z77-V is best in the housing with a side wall shot. We are no longer quenched for the lack of buttons POWER and RESET, although they are located on the boards of competitors even in a much more budget segment.

RESULTS

The basic model of mass class of motherboards ASUS has shown very well. It has everything and even more - the presence of a complete Wi-Fi module has become a pleasant surprise for us. In this context, the manufacturer should work on the labeling system of its own products - in the names of many boards equipped with a wireless module, the appropriate suffix is \u200b\u200bused, and the simple "P8Z77-V" does not say anything to the ordinary user until it comes to acquaintance with the characteristics and reviews.

What would I like to improve in this product? The first is the control buttons and the POST indicator, which are so asked for the RSV. And if without the latter, you can still do, then the first (at least the BIOS settings reset key instead of the outdated switch) is a must. The second, which lacks the P8Z77-V board on the way to ideal - overclocker abilities. Being very strong in the acceleration on BCLK and the capabilities of the system setup, the model under consideration is not impressive at all during the forcing RAM. However, listen to ASUS engineers to our wishes - what would the P8Z77-V differ fundamentally from Maximus V Gene and Maximus V Extreme? You are right - nothing (specific accessories, coming with the "maximum" fees, do not take into account - for most users, their presence is not critical). And so, so there is where to develop!

Anyway, ASUS P8Z77-V Exceed our expectations - the fee that should be a "workshop", marks in the category of "thoroughbred horses". In the cost of the model under consideration of the model at $ 190, its purchase seems to be quite profitable investment - it is unlikely that this money will be able to find a more functional solution.

Liked

Good functionality

Full spectrum of video outputs on the rear panel

Powerful power subsystem

Wide ability to overclocking and fine system settings

Results of overclocking PC

Wi-Fi module included

Did not like

- There are no control buttons and reset CMOS

- Moderate memory overclocking

The device is provided by ASUS, www.asus.ua

Test Stand Configuration

	ASUS P8Z77-V Notify about the appearance on sale
CPU connector	Socket 1155.
Chipset	Intel Z77
Chipset cooling	Radiator
Cooling VRM.	Radiator
Built-in video	Intel HD Graphics (integrated into the processor)
PCI	2
PCI Express X4.	—
PCI Express X1.	2
Schedule. interface	2xpci-E x16 3.0 (x16, x8 + x8) + 1xpci-E x16 2.0 (x4)
Dimm.	4xddr3
IDE (Parallel ATA) (chipset / add. Controller)	—
Serial ATA (chipset / add. Controller)	4/-
SATA Revision 3.0 (chipset / add. Controller)	2/2
Main power connectors	24+8
Additional food	—
Fan.	5
S / PDIF.	+ (output)
Wizobodek	REALTEK ALC892 (7.1)
Ethernet	Intel 82579V PHY (GBE)
SATA.	—
SATA Revision 3.0	ASMEDIA ASM1061.
PATA	—
IEEE 1394 (FireWire)	—
USB 3.0.	ASMEDIA ASM1042.
Lan.	1
esata Rev. 2.0	—
esata Rev. 3.0	—
Audio.	6
S / PDIF-OUT (COAXIAL / OPTICAL)	-/+
Thunderbolt.	—
Outputs for monitor	1xdvi-d, 1xdisplayPort, 1xHDMI and 1XD-SUB
USB 1.1 / 2.0	2/4 (8 ports) / -
USB 3.0.	4/1 (2 ports) / -
IEEE 1394 (FireWire)	—
Com.	-/1/-
Game / Midi.	—
LPT.	—
IDE	—
SATA interface / nutrition, devices	4/-
Form factor	ATX, 305х244 mm
Support for two or more video cards	AMD Crossfirex, Nvidia SLI and LucidLogix Virtu MVP
RAID support	Raid 0, 1, 5, 10 and Intel Smart Response Technology, Intel Rapid Start Technology, Intel Smart Connect Technology
Wi-Fi adapter	built-in Wi-Fi GO Wireless Module! (802.11 b / g / n, support for DLNA-compatible home devices)
UEFI support	yes
miscellanea	Intelligent third-generation chips with Smart Digi + power system; USB 3.0 with UASP protocol; One PS / 2 port for keyboard or mouse; Digital Digi + power system complies with Intel VRD 12.5; used solid-state capacitors; Power supply diagram 12 Phase Power Design (8 -phase for CPU, 4-Phase for IGPU); TPM connector module; Included SLI Bridge and Wi-Fi Antenna

Despite all the tricks used by manufacturers of motherboards to attract potential buyers, most users pay attention, first of all, on the retail price of products. This is obvious, after all, besides the motherboard for assembling a personal computer, you need to buy a quick processor, the maximum RAM volume, a capacious hard disk, a productive video card, a housing with a power supply, as well as some accessories that expand functionality and enhancing usability. Ultimately, it turns out a very ratable amount, often exceeding the scheduled budget. And as a result, the user is forced to search for a compromise between its desires and material capabilities, often refusing to you in a particular purchase. Fortunately, some far-sighted vendors supply their system fees with additional features that allow you to abandon the purchase of some additional accessories. Today we will not just consider a fairly interesting "motherboard" ASUS P8Z77-V, designed to work with Intel processors performed by the LGA1155, but also try to evaluate how this fee can help save money when assembling a personal medium-level computer.

But, before proceeding with a direct acquaintance with a novelty, we propose to study its specifications shown in the following table:

Model
Chipset	Intel Z77 Express
Processor connector	Socket LGA1155
Processors	Core i7, Core i5, Pentium, Celeron (Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge)
Memory	4 Dimm DDR3 SDRAM 1066/1333/1600/1800 * / 1866 * / 2000 * / 2133 * / 2200 * / 2400 * / 2600 * (* - OC), maximum 32 GB
Slots PCI-E	2 PCI Express 2.0 / 3.0 x16 (x16 + x0, x8 + x8) 1 PCI Express 2.0 [Email Protected] 2 PCI Express 2.0 x1
Slots PCI	2 (Asmedia ASM1083)
Built-in video	Intel HD Graphics.
Video invoices	D-sub, DVI-D, DisplayPort, HDMI,
Number of plug-in fans	5 x 4pin.
PS / 2 ports	1 (combined)
USB ports	10 x 2.0 (2 connector on the rear panel) 4 x 3.0 (2 connectors on the rear panel, Intel Z77) 2 x 3.0 (Asmedia ASM1042)
ATA-133.	-
Serial ATA	2 channel SATA 6 Gb / s (Intel Z77) 4 channel SATA 3 Gb / s (Intel Z77) 2 channel SATA 6 Gbps (Asmedia ASM1061)
esata.	-
RAID	0, 1, 5, 10 (Intel Z77)
Built-in sound	REALTEK ALC892 (7.1, HDA)
S / PDIF.	Optic
Built-in network	Intel® 82579V (Gigabit Ethernet)
Firewire.	-
Com.	+ (on the board)
LPT.	-
BIOS / UEFI	Ami UEFI
Form factor	ATX
Dimensions, mm.	305 x 224.
Additional features	Fan Xpert 2, Memok!, Nvidia SLI, Smart Digi +, USB BIOS FlashBack, WiFi Go!

Contents of delivery

As a rule, ASUS products are easy to know thanks to a single proprietary style of packaging, and the participant of today's review has not exceeded this kind of rule. In the design of the front surface of the P8Z77-V box, the SMART Digi + logo is occupied, which means the presence of a digital power subsystem. It employs two control chips: TPU (Turbov Processing Unit) responsible for overclocking, and EPU (Energy Processing Unit), providing support for advanced energy-saving technologies. In addition, the motherboard has a Wi-Fi Go! Compatibility with the UASP Protocol (USB ATTACHED SCSI Protocol) and allows you to control the network connection bandwidth using Network ICONTROL software. Also note the support of the BIOS Flashback technology that optimizes the firmware update process.

On the reverse side of the package, you can see the image board image, a short list of its specifications, as well as a detailed description of branded technologies. For example, Wi-Fi Go! Allows you to turn a personal computer into a multifunctional access point with DLNA. The FAN Xpert 2 feature allows you to control the frequency of rotation of all installed fans in automatic mode or manually set the speed of work "Carlsons", in fact, replacing itself inexpensive refobas.

In the set of supply ASUS P8Z77-V found:

plug to the rear panel I / O Shield;
four SATA 6 Gb / s cables;
set of Q-Connectors Connectors;
nVIDIA SLI bridge:
wi-Fi GO Wireless Wireless Adapter!
wi-Fi antenna;
DVD drives with drivers and software;
user's manual;
wi-Fi GO!
brochure with a description of the corporate on ASUS.

The accessory kit is not distinguished by a special diversity, however, it is nice to see among the accessories and SLI bridge, and a set of Q-Connectors connectors, which significantly facilitate the assembly in close buildings. It is impossible not to note the presence of a separate wireless network adapter and an external antenna.

Design

The design of the novelties strongly reminds such for ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt, with which we met during one of the previous tests. In fact, the heroine of today's review can be viewed as a simplified version of the older model, which has changed the configuration of the PCI-E 2.0 / 3.0 x16 slots and there is no support for the high-speed Thunderbolt interface. The "motherboard" P8Z77-V is carried out in the standard for form factor ATH dimensions of 305x244 mm, so that, despite the tight installation and lack of a free space on the RSV, all major nodes are located at convenient locations.

The system board is based on the Z77 Express chipset, which gives this model compatibility with any Intel processors performed by LGA1155, overclocking support by changing the multiplication coefficient and maximum expansion capabilities. P8Z77-V has four DIMM DDR3 slots in which modules can be installed with a total of 32 GB. As for the clock frequency of RAM, the maximum freedom will receive the owners of 22-nm Intel Ivy Bridge processors, which can use modes up to 2800 MHz inclusive.

The motherboard is equipped with two PCI Express 2.0 / 3.0 x16 slots, which allow you to build AMD CROSSFIREX and NVIDIA SLI configurations. In the case of using a single video screen, the first connector runs at maximum speed, and after adding a second video card, both PCI Express X16 connectors will function according to the X8 + X8 scheme. Recall that for the work of graphic accelerators in PCI EXPRESS 3.0 mode, 22-nm Intel Core i5 / I7 processor is required.

In addition, ASUS P8Z77-V has one PCI Express 2.0 x Slot [Email Protected]which is connected to system logic. To install standard extension boards, the motherboard offers two PCI Express 2.0 X1 connections and a pair of PCI, which is responsible for the ASMEDIA ASM1083 controller.

Motherboard storage subsystem allows you to connect up to eight disk drives. Intel Z77 Express's system logic The controller is responsible for the operation of the SATA 6 Gb / s interfaces and four SATA 3 Gb / s. A combination of hard drives is supported in RAID RAID arrays 0, 1, 5 and 10, as well as activation of Intel Smart Response branded technologies and Rapid Start. The novelty has two additional SATA ports 6 Gb / s, which are connected to the ASMEDIA ASM1061 chip. The system board design does not allow simultaneous use of an additional SATA controller and the second PCI Express 2.0 X1 slot. But, all connectors have a horizontal orientation, so that interface cables will not interfere with the use of the largest video cards.

Connecting to the Gigabit Ethernet local network is implemented on the basis of the Intel 82579V controller, and the WiFi Go!, Inside the AzureWave NE186H adapter, is responsible for supporting the wireless network. It is based on the Qualcomm ATHEROS AR9485 chip, which provides compatibility with IEEE 802.11b / g / n standards.

At the heart of the P8Z77-V audio subsystem, high-quality HD-audio codes REALTEK ALC892 is used, to output sound to digital receivers there is an Optical output of S / PDIF. The connection of the periphery provides ten USB 2.0 ports, two of which are displayed on the rear panel, and six USB 3.0. The four channels of the universal high-speed tire of the third revision are serviced by the system logic of Intel Z77 Express, and the two remaining are an additional ASMEDIA ASM1042 controller.

Thus, on the back panel of the motherboard are:

combined PS / 2 port;
a pair of USB 2.0 connectors and four USB 3.0;
optical output S / PDIF;
video outputs D-sub, DVI-D, DisplayPort and HDMI;
network port RJ-45;
six audio outputs.

The ASUS P8Z77-V interface set allows you to fully implement the extension capabilities laid in the system board. Please note that the novelty provides a connection to three monitors at the same time, however, this feature is available only to the owners of 22-nm Intel processors. Recall that the board supports LUCIDLOGIX Virtu MVP technology, thanks to which you can combine the resources of the built-in and discrete video cards.

The left lower edge of the motherboard is interesting for the presence of several additional controls. There you can detect the microswitches EPU and TPU, as well as the BIOS_FLBK button.

The EPU switch activates the corporate energy saving technologies, and TPU is an automatic overclocking mode, which allows to achieve speed gain without interference in the firmware settings. The BIOS_FLBK button controls the USB Flashback function, which provides an update of the control microcode from the interchangeable drive. It is noteworthy that the installation of the central processor and RAM modules is not required. Also note the presence of Q-LED diagnostic LEDs on the printing board displaying the system board loading process, which helps determine the problems when initializing various subsystems.

The P8Z77-V motherboard is equipped with an efficient cooling system. Excessive heat from the power elements of the voltage converter are removed by a pair of massive radiators.

The fastening system on spring-loaded bolts provides a reliable clamp, and the amplifying plates help the cooling of electronic components located on the reverse side of the printed circuit board.

For the heat of heat from the system logic chip corresponds to a flat radiator of impressive sizes, so that the overheating of the chipset can not worry in any mode of operation.

The converter The ASUS P8Z77 17-V voltage is constructed by a twelve-nylon scheme, where eight phases feed the computing kernels, and four more - form a voltage for the built-in graphics adapter. Traditional MOSFET is used as the power elements, the VRM control of the central processor is instructed by the ASP1101 and ASP1000C controllers, determine the original manufacturer and the characteristics of which interferes with the changed marking. However, it is known that these controllers support the control of the switching frequency of power elements, protection against overheating and excess current, the function Loadline Calibration, as well as the disconnection of a part of the unused phases at the moments of low load on the processor.

A part of the electronic components of the VRM of the central processor is located on the reverse side of the printed circuit board, however, as we have already spoken, the reinforcement plates of radiators cooling transistors helps to remove excess heat.

It remains only to add that the power supply to the voltage converter is supplied using an eight-contact EPS12V connector. In principle, the power supply node of the heroine of today is no different from the older P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt model, so buyers have the right to count on a comparable overclocking level.

As a result, we did not find any deficiencies in the design of the ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard, but positive moments, on the contrary - mass! The latter include high quality manufacturing, and rich functionality (including Wi-Fi support), and a powerful voltage converter, and a thoughtful design of the cooling system. The lack of ESATA and FireWire support can hardly be considered a serious problem, and otherwise the possibilities of expansion will arrange any, even the most demanding, user. UEFI SETUP.

As a firmware, the P8Z77-V system board uses the AMI UEFI SETUP, for which the ASUS programmers have developed an original graphical interface and a number of additional features. Features and capabilities of control microcodes "Materials" ASUS are well acquainted. For example, UEFI SETUP was considered in detail in the review all the same ASUS P8Z77-V Pro / Thunderbolt, therefore, when considering the novelty settings menu, we will only dwell on the main points, and also pay attention to the quality of the Russian-speaking localization of the interface.

We are already used to that the ASUS system board settings menu has two modes: EZ MODE, which displays the main parameters of the system and allows you to perform only the basic settings, and Advanced Mode, which gives full control over all the options "Mother". Since the second regime is most interesting to lovers of overclocking - we will start with it.

The first tab is called "Basic", it displays information about the firmware version, parameters of the RAM and the central processor modules. Here you can set the system date, time and menu display language.

The following section of the AI \u200b\u200bTweaker firmware contains all the main options associated with acceleration and control speed parameters. The user can configure the basic frequency, multiplication ratios of the computing nuclei and the operation of Turbo Boost technology. The OC TUNER function activates automatic acceleration, in which the firmware independently selects the optimal performance parameters.

The quality of the interface localization is at the height, not only the names of the options, but also prompts. At the same time, for some menu items, such as ASUS MULTICORE ENHANCEMENT (technology that accelerates work in multi-threaded tasks), or Turbo Ratio, left the original writing, so that novice users will still have to mobilize their knowledge of the English language.

The numerous settings of the RAM subsystem are in the "Management of Temporary DRAM Parameters" submenu. Traditionally, for ASUS models, the P8Z77-V system boards firmware offers the richest possibilities to optimize the speed of the RAM modules.

In the CPU Power Management tab, as follows from the name, contains energy-saving technologies and fine settings of the Turbo Boost function. The quality and technical literacy of the translation of this submenu is also at the height, it can be seen that the developer approached this issue very responsibly.

The Digi + Power Control firmware section allows you to control the parameters of the digital subsystem. The localization of the name of the options is missing, but, all explanations are translated into Russian, which helps with the selection of overclocking parameters. As for functionality, the UEFI SETUP ASUS P8Z77-V allows you to control the Load-Line Calibration parameter, adjust the frequency of switching the power elements VRM, set up protection against current and overheat, and also set the automatic shutdown mode of the unused voltage converter phases.

The ability to firmware on voltage management on the main elements of the system board are wide, and this already allows you to hope for good overclock results.

The stress list, their ranges of change and step are presented in the following table:

Parameter	Voltage range, in	Step, B.
CPU Core Voltage (Manual)	0,8—1,92	0,005
CPU Core Voltage (Offset)	-0,64…+0,635	0,005
Dram Voltage.	1,2—1,92	0,005
Vccsa Voltage.	0,8—1,7	0,00625
CPU Pll Voltage.	1,2—2,2	0,00625
PCH Voltage.	0,8—1,7	0,00625
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage On Cha	0.395x-0,6300x	0.005x
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage On CHB	0.395x-0,6300x	0.005x

Note that the upper boundaries of the values \u200b\u200bare large enough, so care should be taken and be sure to ensure proper cooling during experiments on acceleration.

The "Advanced" section is responsible for the thin settings of the processor, system logic and numerous additional controllers. The title tabs are translated correctly, with the exception of Network Stack, which sets additional parameters for connecting to the local network.

Subsection "Configuration CPU" displays detailed information about the central processor installed in the system and allows you to configure some specific performance functions.

The embedded graphics adapter options are in the "Graphs" submenu, where you can set the volume of video memory, as well as activate the LucidLogix Virtu MVP technology.

Settings for the operation of the disk subsystem are located in the "PCH configuration" tab, and the Intel Rapid Start Start and Smart Response technologies are in the "PCH configuration" submenu. The configuration of embedded devices is responsible for setting up the multiple controllers, the localization of which leaves much to be desired, as only part of the names is translated and only some of the explanatory inscriptions.

The ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard firmware is endowed with powerful fan speed control facilities and the output of hardware monitoring parameters. In the "Monitor" section, the user can control two temperatures, five tachometric sensors and stress testimony on the central processor and tires +3.3 V, +5 V and +12 V.

The possibilities of UEFI Setup are novels allow you to set the speed of rotation of five fans for which several preset profiles are available and fully customizable manual mode. Note that the wings of coolers connected to the CPU FAN and CPU OPT connectors are synchronously controlled.

Among the additional tools that are equipped with the firmware of the heroine of today's review, we note the built-in utility to update the ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility controller and the ability to save up to eight profiles in the ASUS O.C tab Profile.

Like other modern ASUS motherboards, a novelty has an EZ MODE firmware mode, which is useful for controlling the parameters of hardware monitoring and entering small changes.

In the latest UEFI SETUP versions, the programmers were added to the EZ Mode a convenient function of a quick transition, which can be called by pressing the "F3" key. This feature is useful during acceleration experiments when prompt access to certain groups of parameters is required.

As an intermediate result, it is safe to say that the ASUS P8Z77-V firmware allows not only to perform a thin setting of all nodes and subsystems of the motherboard, but also has wide overclocking capabilities, which will certainly appreciate fans of overclocking. The presence of the EZ MODE mode and the built-in microcode update utilities improves the convenience of work, and the Russian-speaking localization, although far and not perfect, will appeal to beginners, only comprehending all overclocking.

Complete PO

Software supplied with the ASUS motherboards is perfectly deservedly considered one of the best among similar products. The ASUS AI Suite II software package includes many independent modules united by a single interface. In our previous reviews, we have repeatedly considered the functionality of a complete ASUS, so, today we will remind its main opportunities.

The Turbov EVO module makes it possible to control the base frequency and the multiplication ratio of the computing kernels, as well as adjust the voltages on the main nodes of the motherboard. Also, from the TURBOV EVO interface, an automatic overclocking feature is activated.

For settings for the digital power supply subsystem of the central processor and the RAM modules, the Digi + Power Control subroutine corresponds to the Digi + Power Control, which focuses on the Load-Line Calibration features, protection against overheating and excess current, as well as the disconnect mode of unused VRM phases.

Electricity saving functions are collected in the EPU subroutine, in which you can choose a power saving profile, as well as calculate the amount of greenhouse gas CO2, saved during the operation of "green" technologies.

Asus AI Suite II, there is a Fan Xpert 2 module that suggests the widest possibilities for managing and configuring automatic fan operation. After starting Fan Xpert 2, it is determined and automatic calibration of all installed in the "Carlson" system, the process itself takes a little more than a minute.

After that, the user gets the opportunity to use one of the three preset profiles, set the mode of operation depending on the temperature sensor readings or manually specify the fixed rotation speed. Note that Fan Xpert 2 works perfectly correctly with fans that do not support revolutions using PWM. The convenience and functionality of the Fan Xpert 2 module allows you to abandon the purchase of the initial level refs.

To display the system monitoring and signaling readings, the PROBE II module is used, and the Sensor Recorder subroutine displays the change in the parameters in real time with the ability to write history to the file.

As already noted, due to the availability of the Wi-Fi GO adapter! The ASUS P8Z77-V system board supports the connection to the IEEE 802.11 B / G / N wireless networks, and the Wi-Fi Engine program allows you to turn a personal computer into a full-fledged access point. The number of settings is not large, only one type of encryption is supported - WPA2, but even this is enough to connect a laptop or tablet to the Internet through a desktop PC.

To optimize the charge process of mobile devices from USB ports, the USB CHARGER + subroutine is served. Using USB 3.0 Boost, you can speed up the exchange of data with portable drives, and for compatible devices - activate UASP mode (USB ATTACHED SCSI Protocol).

In addition to the above capabilities, the ASUS AI Suite II program using a special Network IControl module can control the bandwidth of the connection to the local network. The module allows you to set priority and limit the transmission rate, thereby providing smaller delays and maximum performance, for example, during network battles.

The advantages of ASUS AI Suite II are well known, this software product offers convenient acceleration functions, hardware monitoring and much more. We will not argue that ASUS AI Suite II is ideal, as it is not deprived of certain drawbacks. Among them, for example, the absence of the possibility of controlling the frequency of RAM modules and setting up RAM delays. The last disadvantage can be corrected using a separate utility, such as Mem Tweakit, but with the inability to change the frequency of RAM will have to come to terms. Acid potential

For the beginning, we estimated the abilities of ASUS P8Z77-V in terms of the increase in the base frequency. In this discipline, the novelty showed not the best results, the acceleration of BCLK stopped at 105.5 MHz.

As for the overclocking of RAM, then certain changes were made to the test method. From now on, we use the G.Skill Tridentx F3-2400C10D-8GTX RAM, optimized to work at frequencies up to 2400 MHz. True, this mode is available only after increasing delays to 10-12-12-30-1t with an increase in voltage to 1.75V. Since the 32-nm Intel Core i5-2500K processor is used as part of the test stand, we failed to achieve such high results, even despite the voltage increase VCCSA to 1.125V. The maximum that was able to achieve when using P8Z77-V for a set of RAM G.Skill was the frequency of 2240 MHz.

Next, it was checked by the ability of new items on automatic acceleration, which can be activated in three ways: Enable the OC TUNER option in the setup menu, use the AUTO TINING function in the TURBOV EVO program or move the TPU microswitch located on the left lower edge of the motherboard. We took advantage of the latest method, and after turning on the power, the firmware independently increased the base frequency to 102 MHz, the central processor earned at 4283 MHz with a voltage of 1.336 V, and the RAM modules functioned in 1900 MHz with delays 10-12-12-31-2T. After activating the automatic acceleration, the energy saving function continued its work, lowering the voltage and the frequency of computing nuclei at the absence of a load.

Of course, careful selection of parameters in manual mode gives the best result, but automatic acceleration does not require special knowledge and helps save a lot of time. As a result, users without much difficulty and can be completely free to obtain the performance of senior models of central processors, without fear of reducing stability or reduce the resource of a personal computer.

As for the reserve of strength during the acceleration of the central processor, the ASUS P8Z77-V showed very good results, at the level of the best representatives of the system boards for Intel processors performed by the LGA1155. After increasing the multiplication ratio to 48 and increasing the voltage CPU Core Voltage Offset on 0.1 to our test Core i5-2500K earned with a frequency of 4800 MHz while maintaining the full performance of energy saving technologies. To achieve full stability in the LINX stress test, the CPU Load-Line Calibration option was set to High, and the Long Duration Power Limit and Primary Plane Limit and PRIMARY PLANE LIMIT parameters are set to 200 W and 150 A, respectively.

During our experiments, the P8Z77-V motherboard demonstrated a good margin of strength, ensuring maximum acceleration of the test Intel Core i5-2500K. It is impossible not to note the perfect operation of the automatic speed increase function, which is useful to novice overclockers. Give an assessment of the acceleration of RAM is somewhat more complicated, as this is our first work experience G.skill Tridentx F3-2400C10D-8GTX in a pair with Intel Sandy Bridge. Nevertheless, the achievement of the clock frequency in 2240 MHz can be considered a very good result.

Test stand

Testing performance and assessment of the acceleration potential of the Maternal ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard passed as part of the following configuration:

processor: Intel Core i5-2500K (3.3 GHz);
cooler: Zalman CNPS10X Flex (120 mm fan, 1800 rpm);
memory: G.Skill Tridentx F3-2400C10D-8GTX (2x4 GB, DDR3-2400, CL10-12-12-31);
video card: ASUS HD7950-DC2T-3GD5 (Radeon HD 7950);
hard Drive: Intel SSD 320 Series (300 GB, SATA 3GB / S);
power supply: SEASONIC X-650 (650 W).

As you can see, a serious change occurred as part of a test bench. The location of the MSI N480GTX Lightning graphics accelerator has occupied the modern ASUS HD7950-DC2T-3GD5 video card. In addition, the amount of RAM has been increased from 4 GB to 8 GB, and a solid state drive Intel SSD 320 Series with a capacity of 300 GB is now used as a system disk.

We have not yet managed to develop statistics on the level of speed of system boards in the composition of a new test stand, therefore, as a rival for the heroine of today's testing, the ASRock Z75 PRO3 model was performed. Despite the use of the Intel Z75 Express chipset and the low retail price, the "motherboard" ASRock has shown a great level of speed. During today's testing, motherboards worked with such versions of control microcodes:

ASUS P8Z77-V UEFI SETUP 1606 dated 08/31/2012;
ASRock Z75 Pro3 UEFI SETUP 1.50 dated 09/21/2012.

RAM functioned at a frequency of 1600 MHz with delays 9-9-9-24-1t, processor energy saving technologies and Intel Turbo Boost were activated. The test booth worked under the control of Microsoft Windows 7 Enterprise 64 Bit (90-day introductory version), updated to SP1 through the Windows Update service. The UAC (User Access Control) and the paging file were disabled, no other operating system optimizations were performed. For system logic, Intel Inf Update Utility drivers 9.3.0.1019 were installed on 03.05.2012 and Intel Management Engine 8.05.1464 dated 21.05.2012, and for a video card - Catalyst Software Suite 12.8 dated 08/15/2012.

The testing technique has not changed any changes: we repeat each measurement three times and calculate the arithmetic average value. In the event that some of the results does not fit into measurement error - iterations are repeated until the normal value is obtained.

To actualization of the gaming test results, we were forced to update the list of test software, which acquired the following type:

AIDA64 2.60.2100 (Cache & Memory Benchmark);
Futuremark PCMark 7;
Futuremark 3DMark 11;
BattleForge;
Crysis 2;
F1 2012.

Test results

Measuring low-level RAM performance in Cache & Memory Benchmark, which is part of the AIDA64 information and diagnostic utility, allows you to judge the speed of motherboards in applications demanding to the bandwidth of the RAM subsystem.

Both test participants showed the same results when reading and writing data, but the ASUS P8Z77-V ASUS P8Z77-V was faster in copy operations, while the Maternity Asrock demonstrated a smaller latency of access to RAM. It is obvious that the low-level performance of the RAM of RAM will not become a factor restraining the speed in real tasks.

Testing in the specialized software product Futuremark PCMark 7 helps with great accuracy to estimate the productivity of motherboards in everyday application tasks, such as processing multimedia files, modern 3D games, work on the Internet and office packages.
In all P8Z77-V subtests, it did not give way to his rival, which indicates the excellent optimization of managing microcodes of motherboards and allows you to count on good performance in application programs.

The results obtained in the half-synthetic benchmark Futuremark 3DMark 11 allow you to judge the productivity of a personal computer in the resource-intensive modern video games. Using the DirectX 11 API loads the work of the graphic subsystem, and the calculation of realistic physical models creates a computing load on the central processor. To reduce the influence of the video card on the test results, we use the Performance settings profile.

There is no point in commenting results, they are completely identical. In this case, the study of performance indicators in separate test scenarios is formal.

As expected, we could not detect the slightest difference in the performance of rivals. Obviously, such a picture is waiting for us when testing in real 3D games.

To assess the speed of system boards in modern game applications, we used the real-time Battleforge strategy, Crysis 2's final shooter and automotive simulator F1 2012. In the case of BattleForge and F1 2012, built-in frame change frequency measurement tools were activated, and Crysis 2 was used for testing. OpenAutomate application. To reduce the dependence of the results from the productivity of the graphics adapter, the resolution of 1680x1050 was used without switching on full-screen smoothing.

The novelty showed excellent performance, no worse than the ASRock Z75 Pro3, which "did not hit the face" in competition with much more expensive competitors.

conclusions

As we have already spoken at the beginning of the review, under certain circumstances, the built-in functions of motherboards allow you to abandon the purchase of additional accessories. In the case of ASUS P8Z77-V, this assumption was fully confirmed. Due to the presence of a complete Wi-Fi GO module! And special on the motherboard allows you to organize a full-fledged access point, and the presence of extended functions for controlling fan speeds makes it possible to refuse to buy a separate rebala. The convenient function of automatic overclocking allows a slight movement to get for the central processor productivity. Obviously, the funds saved in this way can be spent on the purchase of a more productive video card or, for example, to acquire a larger storage. With all its advantages, such as excellent expansion options, convenient and functional firmware, as well as a good stock safety stock and good overclocking results, ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard possessing a quite acceptable price - about $ 190, from which you can safely deduct the cost of the wireless adapter. and a multifunctional panel, adjusting fan rotation speeds. As a result, the price turns out to be at the level of competitors offering much less equipment and expansion opportunities.

Equipment for testing was provided by the following companies:

ASRock - ASRock Z75 Pro3 system board;
ASUS - SUS HD7950-DC2T-3GD5 video card, ASUS P8Z77-V system board;
Eletek - cooler Zalman CNPS10X FLEX;
G.SKILL - G.Skill Tridentx F3-2400C10D-8GTX memory memory;
Intel - Intel SSD 320 Series drive, Intel Core i5-2500K processor;
SYNTEX - SEASONIC X-650 Power Supply.

The decision from ASUS under consideration today refers to the average price range and is intended to build productive and reliable home game and multimedia systems. Positioning by the manufacturer promises the buyer excellent performance in applications and games at an affordable price.

The motherboard in the producer product line is a reduced older model, on the basis of which the manufacturer presented several other modifications. With the main differences between the versions we got acquainted in the review . In fact, among all modifications of this fee ( LX, LK, LE, PRO) The decision under consideration today is one of the most productive, along with.

For a more visual comparison, we give a small description of the board modifications

		P8Z77-V LX	P8Z77-V.LK.	P8Z77-V.Le.	P8Z77-V.Pro.




Video outputs	VGA DVI HDMI DisplayPort.	VGA DVI HDMI	DVI HDMI DisplayPort.	VGA DVI HDMI DisplayPort.	VGA DVI HDMI DisplayPort.



Phase power

Thanks to such a variety of modifications, each user may choose a motherboard according to needs, without overpaying at the same time for not necessary functionality.

We offer to go directly to the motherboard and explore its specifications in more detail:

Manufacturer

	Intel Z77 Express
Processor connector
Supported processors	Intel Core i7 / Core i5 / Core i3 second and third generation
Memory used	2600 (O.C.) / 2400 (O.C.) / 2200 (O.C.) / 2133 (O.C.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1800 (O.C.) / 1600/1333 MHz
Memory support	4 x 1.5V DDR3 DIMM slot with support up to 32 GB of memory
Expansion slots	2 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 (x8 + x8) 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 (x4) 2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 2 x PCI
Disk subsystem	Intel Z77 Express chipset supports: 4 x SATA 3 Gb / from port with support to 4 SATA devices 3 Gb / s The ASMEDIA ASM1061 controller supports: 2 x SATA 6 Gb / from port with up to 2 SATA 6 Gb / s devices
	1 x Gigabit Network Controller Intel 82579V (10/100/1000 Mbps)
Sound subsystem	Codec Realtek Alc892. 2/4 / 5.1 / 7.1-channel sound SPDIF Out.
	24-pin ATX Power Connector 8-pin ATX12V power connector
Cooling	Aluminum radiator of the southern bridge
External ports I / O	1 x HDMI 1 x DVI-D 1 x VGA. 1 x DisplayPort. 1 x LAN (RJ45) 4 x USB 3.0 2 x USB 2.0 1 x WLAN. 1 x Optical S / PDIF OUT 6 x audio ports 1 x PS / 2
Internal ports I / O	1 x USB 3.0 with support for connecting two USB 3.0 (19-PIN) 4 x USB 2.0 each with support for connecting two USB 2.0 4 x SATA port 6 Gb / s 4 x SATA port 3 Gb / s 1 x CPU processor fan connector (4-pin) 4 x Connectors connecting system fans 1 x Sound Output Connector on Front Panel 1 x front panel connectors block 1 x s / pdif out 1 x Jumper for reset CMOS 1 x com 1 x TPM. 1 x Memok! 1 x TPU. 1 x EPU.

Equipment	user's manual brochure with warranty description drivers and utilities disc 4 x SATA cable 1 x SLi Bridge 1 x ASUS Wi-Fi GO Module! 1 x Wi-Fi Antenna 1 x K-Connector set plug interface panel
Form factor dimensions, mm.	ATX 305 x 244.
Products webpage	New BIOS and drivers can be downloaded from the support page.

Packaging and equipment

The ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard packaging is decorated in a strict, characteristic of the manufacturer style. The box is made of dense cardboard with printed printing in black and yellow colors. On the front side of the box, in addition to the board name, logos are located indicating the support of AMD CrossFirex, NVIDIA SLI technologies and LUCIDU Virtu Universal MVP technology, which optimizes the rendering process and display, ensuring an increase in productivity and improve image quality. Also noted the readiness of the board to work with new processors of the Intel Ivy Bridge family, made on the 22-nanometer process. Logos of used technologies are applied here:

Lucid Virtu Universal MVP;

Dual Intelligent Processors and Smart Digi + - the board is equipped with two intelligent chips: energy processor (Energy Processing Unit - EPU) and TURBOV processor (Turbov Processing Unit - TPU). The third generation of these chips works together with the new digital SMART Digi + power system, which differs even greater efficiency and stability in the work, and also offers flexible power consumption settings;

Wi-Fi Go! - Included the ASUS Wi-Fi GO wireless module is supplied!;

USB 3.0 Boost - to speed up the USB 3.0 interface implemented support for the UASP protocol;

UEFI BIOS - BIOS with a graphical interface, supports hard disks with a volume of more than 2.2 terabytes;

USB BIOS FlashBack - BIOS firmware with flash drive;

Network IControl - the utility allows you to set the priorities to use the network connection bandwidth by various applications using a convenient user interface.

On the reverse side of the packaging, the motherboard itself is depicted, its technical characteristics, as well as in more detail the main technologies applied in it are described.

The delivery set, in addition to the standard, as for Mid-sized price segments, SATA and documentation loops, are extended using Wi-Fi module and SLI bridge. Complete with ASUS P8Z77-V comes:

Documentation;
Drive with drivers and utilities;
Four SATA loops;
Wi-Fi module;
Wi-Fi antenna;
SLI bridge;
Set ASUS Q-Connectors for a more convenient connection of the front panel to the motherboard;
Plug interface panel.

Design and Features of the Board

The ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard belongs to the popular ATX Factor Factor, is made on a brown textolite and is characterized by a rational arrangement of the typical elements. The layout of the board is performed almost without flaws. Due to sufficient dimensions, all connectors are placed on optimal places and do not cause inconvenience when assembling a computer even in a compact package. The 24-pin ATX power connector and 8-pin ATX12V are located at convenient locations, on the edges of the board, which will allow, if there is a good management cable system in the system unit, hide the wires behind the motherboard. The only one is not too successful, this is the location of the connectors for connecting system fans next to the 24-pin power connector and the block of connecting external USB ports 3.0, i.e. Fat harness from wires can make it difficult to connect fans.

The reverse side attracts attention except that the reinforcement plate of the socket LGA1155 is made by Foxconn, which should ensure the possibility of installing enough powerful cooling systems that will be needed when the processor is accelerated. You can also pay attention to the amplifying plates to which radiators installed on the power elements of the board are attached - the original solution, which is not very often.

At the bottom of the motherboard, parallel to its surface, there are eight SATA ports. Four SATA 3 Gbit / Blue Ports and Two SATA 6 GBP / S White SATA are implemented by Intel Z77 Express chipset. There is a support for SATA RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 arrays. Two SATA ports 6 Gbit / with dark blue are implemented by the ASMEDIA ASM1061 controller. As already mentioned above, the ports are perpendicular to the board, but despite this, they are sufficiently distinguished from the PCI Express slots, so even the longest extension boards will not be able to make it difficult to connect drives. Nearby are connectors for connecting internal USB ports. In total, the board implemented ten ports USB 2.0: 2 on the interface panel and 8 internal. Near USB 2.0 ports are located the front panel and the front panel audio connectors.

On the right side of the motherboard, except SATA ports, a block of connecting a remote panel with two USB 3.0 ports is located (not supplied). It can be noted a very convenient location, when connected you do not have to stretch the wires throughout the system unit. A total of six USB 3.0 ports are implemented on the board on the interface panel and 2 internal.

SATA ports are slightly lower than the TPU and EPU switches, as well as the COM port.

The ASUS P8Z77-V system board is equipped with four DIMM slots for installing DDR3 RAM MODUries, which are equipped with latches only from one side. RAM can work in two-channel mode, for its implementation, the memory modules must be installed either in two black or two blue slots. Modules operating at the frequencies 1600/1333 MHz are supported in nominal mode and 2400/2200/2133/2000/1866/1800 MHz in acceleration. The maximum amount of memory can be 32 GB, which should be sufficient in most cases.

The cooling system of the circuit in question consists of three aluminum radiators: one carries out heat removal from the Intel Z77 Express chipset, the two others cover the MOSFET chips, which will definitely not be superimposed with acceleration experiments. All radiators are attached with reliable screws.

In the process of testing, the temperature of the radiators did not exceed 41 ° C, which is the standard result for the new generation chipsets.

The features of the board can be attributed to the MEMOK button! and EPU and TPU switches: the first is responsible for the inclusion of the power saving mode, and the second for the automatic acceleration of the system with the help of branded technology.

The location of Socket LGA1155 and the support plate is standard. Power processor is carried out by 8 + 4-phase diagram for computing nuclei and additional nodes. The converter itself is based on a PWM controller with a built-in SMART DIGI + power management system. All components from which the processor power supply assembly are distinguished by a high degree of reliability - the capacitors are used solid, and chokes with a ferrite core. To power the ASUS P8Z77-V, standard for the device of this class of the main 24 and additional 8-pin connectors are designed.

The possibilities of expanding the functionality of the ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard will be quite sufficient for everyday use, the benefit of us is a full-size printed circuit board and problems with the place to accommodate the expansion slots of a priori does not occur. In stock Two slots for installing graphic adapters - PCI-EXPRESS 3.0 x16 (x8 + x8) and one PCI-Express 2.0 x16 (x4). On the board there is support for NVIDIA SLI and ATI CrossFirex technologies. If you have one graphic adapter, it must be installed in the first slot, which will function in X16 mode. Since the Intel Z77 Express chipset features allow display an image from the video engineer built into the processor, the PCI-Express 3.0 slots can also be used to set other expansion cards. Also, the expansion of the motherboard functionality is possible due to the two PCI-Express X1 slots and two PCIs. Since modern Intel chipsets, including Intel Z77 Express, do not support the outdated PCI bus, the functioning of the pair of slots located on the motherboard is implemented due to the PCIE-PCI bridge based on the ASMEDIA ASM1083 controller.

Separately, it is worth noting that the operation of the PCI-Express slots according to the 3.0 specification will be possible only in the presence of the Intel Ivy Bridge family processor.

Intel 82579V gigabit LAN controller is used to support network connections.

Multi I / O capabilities are provided by the NuVoton NCT6779D chip, which controls PS / 2 ports, the operation of system fans and provides monitoring.

The sound subsystem of the motherboard under consideration is based on the 8-channel audio of the REALTEK ALC892, which supports the 2/4 / 5.1 / 7.1 audio systems.

Switching between video outputs implemented by two ASMEDIA ASM1442 controllers.

The operation of two additional USB ports 3.0 is implemented by the ASMEDIA ASM1042 controller.

The following ports are displayed on the ASUS P8Z77-V motherboard interface panel:

1 x DisplayPort;
1 x DVI-D;
1 x VGA;
1 x HDMI;
1 x LAN (RJ45);
4 x USB 3.0;
2 x USB 2.0;
1 x Optical S / PDIF OUT;
6 x audio ports;
1 x Connector for Wi-Fi module;
1 x PS / 2 (mouse / keyboard).

As you can see, the configuration of external ports is sufficient for a comfortable use of the system. For unpleasant features, perhaps, only the absence of the ESATA port can be attributed.

The Motherboard ASUS P8Z77-V is equipped with a sufficient number of connectors for connecting fans. In addition to the four-pin connector for the processor cooler, there are four more for system fans.

UEFI BIOS.

In the motherboard under consideration, UEFI is used as a preloader, in which the selection of settings can be made using one mouse alone, in addition, the proprietary technology from ASUS, which provides support for the drives of over 2.2 tB. Separately, it is worth noting the support of the Russian language.

The options needed for fine system settings are grouped in the section "AI TWEAKER".

The settings necessary for overclocking are tabulated:

Parameter	Menu name	Range
Processor technologies	C1E, EIST, Virtualization Technology, Multi-Threading, Intel TURBO Boost Mode
System Tire Frequency	Blck / Peg. Frequency
Frequency factor	Core Ratio Limit.
Divider for memory	Memory Frequency	800, 1066, 1333, 1600, 1866, 2133, 2400
Maximum graphics core frequency		1100 - 3000 MHz
Delay RAM	DRAM TIMING CONTROL	Cas Latency, Ras to Cas, Ras Pre, Ras Act, Command Mode, Ras to Ras, Ref, Cycle, Dram Refresh, Write Recovery, Read to Pre, Four Act Win, Write to Read, Cke Minimum, Cas Write, RTL ( CHA), RTL (CHB), TWRDR, TRWDR, TRWSR, TRR, TRRSR, TWW (DD), TWW (DR), TWWSR
Processor multiplier
Power limit with long acceleration	Long Duration Power Limit
Duration of long acceleration	Long Duration Maintained.
Power limit with short-term acceleration	Short Duration Power Limit
The maximum value of the additional CPU supply voltage during turboboost acceleration	ADDITIONAL TURBO VOLTAGE
The main current	PRIMARY PLANE CURRENT LIMIT	0.125 - 1023,875 in
Secondary current limit	SECONDARY PLANE CURRENT LIMIT	0.125 - 1023,875 in
Fixed Power Scheme Frequency	DRAM FIXED FREQUENCY MODE	300 - 500 kHz
Additional voltage on the processor, in	CPU Offset Voltage.	0.005 - 0.635 V
	CPU MANUAL Voltage.
Voltage on the graphics core, in	igPumanual Voltage.
Voltage on memory modules, in		1,185 - 2,135 V


Voltage on chipseet		0.735 - 1.685 V

Since the frequency of the SATA and PCIE tire frequencies are tied to the frequency of the SATA and PCIE, an increase in the BCLK frequency will very quickly lead to the loss of the system's work stability, respectively, the acceleration of the processor on the motherboard with the Intel Z77 chipset, as well as on Intel Z68, is supposed to be performed using multipliers.

The frequency multiplier allows you to set the frequency from 800 MHz to 2400 MHz.

If necessary, in the DRAM TIMING CONTROL subsection, you can access the memory delay adjustments.

In the Digi + VRM section, you can access the advanced component performance settings. The higher the value is selected in percent, the higher the possible range of frequency change and more maximum possible voltage.

The UEFI also did not cost without a separate monitoring section where you can follow:

motherboard temperature and processor;

speed of rotation of the processor cooler and four cabinet fans;

voltage on the core of the processor;

voltage on the power lines + 12V, + 5V and + 3.3V.

The only thing that does not take out in the monitoring section is the testimony of the power supply voltage.

In addition, in this section, you can enable the automatic control function of the CPU Q-FAN CONTROL processor cooler and body fans that have different intensity modes.

Separately, it is worth noting the possibility of removing the "screenshots" in the BIOS.

Utilities

ASUS TURBOV EVO. allows you to implement the system, changing the supply voltage of various system components directly from the operating system environment. Also, this utility allows you to save settings into profiles, and switch between them depending on the current tasks.

Opportunities

The acceleration of the processor in manual mode is performed simply, with a multiplier change, and a small increase in voltage. The fee allowed to achieve the standard frequency limit of the laboratory processor, which indicates its normal overclocker potential.

Testing

The following equipment was used to verify the maternal capabilities of the motherboard:

CPU	Intel Core i5-2500K (LGA1155, 3.3 GHz, L3 6 MB) TURBO BOOST: Enable C1E: Enable
	Scythe Kama Angle Rev.B
RAM	2x DDR3-2000 1024 MB Kingston Hyperx KHX16000D3T1K3 / 3GX
Video card	MSI R4850-2D1G-OC (Radeon HD 4850, 1 GB GDDR3, PCIE 2.0)
HDD	Seagate Barracuda 7200.12 ST3500418AS, 500 GB, SATA-300, NCQ
Optical drive	ASUS DRW-1814BLT SATA
Power Supply	SEASONIC SS-650JT Active PFC (650 W, 120 mm Fan)
	Codegen M603 Miditower (2 x 120 mm fan on blow / blowing)

Test results:

During the testing process, ASUS P8Z77-V has shown performance at the level of models of other manufacturers on the Intel Z77 Express chipset, in this connection, it can be concluded about the quality level of the board and good BIOS optimization.

Testing of the sound path based on the codec REALTEK ALC892

Testing Report in Rightmark Audio Analyzer

16-bit, 44,1 KHz


Noise level, dB (a)
Dynamic range, dB (a)
Harmonic distortion,%


		Very good
Intermodulation by 10 kHz,%
Total assessment		Very good

Mode of operation 24-bit, 192 KHz

Non-uniformity frequency response (in the range of 40 Hz - 15 kHz), dB		Very good
Noise level, dB (a)
Dynamic range, dB (a)
Harmonic distortion,%		Very good
Harmonic distortion + noise, dB (a)
Intermodulation distortion + noise,%		Very good
Channel interpenetration, dB		Very good
Intermodulation by 10 kHz,%		Very good
Total assessment		Very good

Sound codec Realtek ALC892The average rating "Very good". This means that you can get sufficient sound quality, which will satisfy most potential buyers without acquiring a discrete sound card.

conclusions

The Asus P8Z77-V motherboard, based on the new productive Intel Z77 Express chipset, is one of the optimal solutions for assembling a computer for games and multimedia. This motherboard is a balanced modern solution of ATX format for Socket LGA1155 and is positioned as a productive model without excesses with an excellent component base, high-quality nutrition node and almost all necessary ports. Separately, it is worth noting that the ASUS P8Z77-V is distinguished by the relative availability of the price (on average 150 US dollars) as for the product of a similar class. The main thing is to take into account when assembling the system, that the main advantages you will receive only using ASUS P8Z77-V in a set with 22 nm processors from Intel.

From the main advantages of the board, we note a high-quality element base, thoughtful design and location of the typesetting elements, a digital power system, which is based on a PWM controller with a built-in SMART DIGI + power management system and the ability to use two discrete video adapters according to the X8 / X8 scheme.

A large number of SATA and USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports can be attributed to the distinctive features of the motherboard and USB 2.0 and 3.0, as well as the presence of all the necessary video outputs and the presence in the delivery of the Wi-Fi module, which is rare for the solutions of the average price range.

The flaws of the pillath, as such, but no, however, it is worth considering the lack of supporting outdated ports (in addition to the COM port) and a somewhat inconvenient connection of two system fans.

We are grateful to companies Intel, Kingston, MSI, SEASONIC andZOTAC for the equipment provided for test stand.

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