Intel chipsets comparison. Integrated sound card

Chipset motherboard - these are blocks of microcircuits (literally, a chip set, that is, a set of chips) that are responsible for the operation of all other computer components. The performance and speed of your PC also depends on it.

As you understand, in addition, close attention should be paid to the chipset placed on it, especially if we're talking about about modern powerful home or gaming computers.

They are easy to identify visually on the motherboard - these are large black microcircuits, which are sometimes covered with cooling radiators.

In the already outdated design of the motherboard, the chipset chips were divided into two blocks - the north and south bridge according to their location on the diagram.

Functions north bridge— ensuring the operation of the processor with RAM (RAM controller) and video card (PCI-E x16 controller). The southern one is responsible for connecting the processor with other computer devices - hard drives, optical drives, expansion cards, etc. via SATA, IDE, PCI-E x1, PCI, USB, sound controllers.

The main performance characteristic of the chipset in this architecture is the data bus (System Bus), designed to exchange information between the various parts that make up the computer. All components work with the chipset through buses, each at its own speed. This is clearly visible in the chipset diagram.

The performance of the entire PC depends precisely on the speed of the bus that connects it to the chipset itself. In Intel chipset terminology, this bus is referred to as FSB (Front Side Bus).

In the description of the motherboard, this is referred to as “bus frequency” or “bus bandwidth”.
Let's take a closer look at these characteristics of the data bus. It is determined by two indicators - frequency and width.

• Frequency is the data transfer rate, which is measured in megahertz (MHz, MHz) or gigahertz (GHz, GHz). The higher this indicator, the higher the performance of the entire system as a whole (for example, 3 GHz).
• Width- the number of bytes that the bus has the ability to transfer at a time in bytes (for example, 2 Bt). The greater the width, the more information the bus can transmit in a certain period of time.

When we multiply these two values, we get a third, which is precisely indicated on the diagrams - throughput, which is measured in gigabytes per second (Gb/s, Gb/s). From our example, we multiply 3 GHz by 2 Bytes and get 6 Gb/s.

In the picture below, the bus bandwidth is 8.5 gigabytes per second.

The north bridge communicates with the RAM using a built-in two-channel controller via the RAM Bus, which has 128 contacts (x128). When working with memory in single-channel mode, only 64 tracks are used, so for maximum performance it is recommended to use 2 memory modules connected to different channels.

Architecture without northbridge

In the latest generation processors, the north bridge is already built into the processor chip itself, which significantly increases its performance. Therefore, on new motherboards it is completely absent - only the south bridge remains.

In the example below, the chipset does not have a north bridge, since its function is taken over by a processor with a built-in video core, but from it we also see the designation of the data bus speed.

Modern processors use the QPI (QuickPath Interconnect) bus, as well as the PCI-e x16 graphics controller, which used to be in the northbridge and is now built into the processor. As a result of them becoming embedded, the main data bus characteristics are not as important as they were in the previous generation dual-bridge architecture.

In modern chipsets on new boards, there is another bus operation parameter - transfers per second, which indicates the number of data transfer operations per second. For example, 3200 MT/s (megatransfers per second) or 3.2 GT/s (gigatransfers).

The same characteristic is indicated in the descriptions of processors. Moreover, if the chipset has a bus speed of 3.2 GT/s, and the processor, for example, has 2 GT/s, then this combination will operate at a lower value.

Chipset manufacturers

The main players in the market of chipset manufacturers are the companies already familiar to us from Intel and AMD, as well as NVidea, which is better known to users for its video cards, and Asus.

Since the main manufacturers today are the first two, let's take a look at modern and already outdated models.

Intel chipsets

Modern- 8x, 7x and 6x series.
Outdated- 5x, 4x and 3x, as well as NVidea.

Marking a chipset with a letter before a number indicates the power of the chipset within one line.

• X- maximum performance for gaming computers
• R- high performance for powerful computers mass application
• G- for a regular home or office computer
• B, Q- for business. The characteristics are the same as “G”, but have additional functions, such as remote maintenance and access monitoring for administrators of large offices and enterprises.

IN Lately Several new series have been introduced for the new LGA 1155 chipset:

• N- for ordinary users
• R 67— for enthusiasts who are planning further upgrades and overclocking of the system
• Z— a universal option, combines the characteristics of the two previous ones

From the chipset diagram you can easily understand what built-in and external functions it supports. For example, let's look at the diagram of the modern high-performance Intel Z77 chipset.

The first thing that attracts attention is the absence of a north bridge. As we can see, this chipset works with processors with integrated graphics core (Processor Graphics) of the Intel Core series. For a home computer, the built-in core will be enough to work with documents and watch videos. However, if greater performance is required, for example when installing modern games, then the chipset supports the installation of several video cards in the PCI Express 3 slot. Moreover, when installing 1 video card, it will use 16 lines, two - each with 8 lines, or one 8, the other 4 , and the remaining 4 lines will be used to work with devices using Thunderbolt technology.

The chipset is also ready for further upgrades and system overclocking (Intel Extreme Tuning Support).

For comparison, let's look at another chipset - Intel P67, which is shown below. Its main difference from the Z77 is that it does not support working with the processor’s built-in video core.

This means that a motherboard equipped with a P67 will not be able to work with the integrated graphics core of the processor and you will definitely have to buy a discrete (separate) video card for it.

AMD chipsets

Modern— Axx series (for processors with a built-in video core), 9xx and 8xx.
Outdated— 7хх, nForce and GeForce, with the exception of some models.

The weakest in terms of performance are those models whose names contain only numbers.

• Letters G or V in the model name indicates the presence of a built-in video card in the chipset.
• X or GX— support for two separate (discrete) video cards, but not at full capacity (8 lines each).
• FX are the most powerful chipsets that fully support multiple graphics cards.

The bus that connects the processor and the chipset is called Hyper Transport (HT) by AMD. In modern chipsets working with sockets AM2+, AM3, AM3+ it is version 3.0, in AM2 it is 2.0.

• HT 2.0: max frequency - 1400 MHz, width 4 bytes, bandwidth 2.8 GT/s
• HT 3.0: max frequency 2600 MHz, width 4 bytes, bandwidth 5.3 GT/s

Let's look at an example of a motherboard description on the website and determine which chipset is installed on it.

In this picture we have the MSI Z77A-G43 model - from the name itself it is clear that it is equipped with an Intel Z77 chipset, which is also confirmed in the detailed description.

And here is the ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX R2.0 board with a powerful chipset from AMD 990FX, which is also evident both from the name and from the detailed description.

What is the best motherboard chipset?

Let's summarize - which chipset is better to choose for your computer?

It all depends on what purpose you are building your PC for. If this is an office or home computer on which you do not plan to install games, then it is advisable to choose a chipset that works with processors with an integrated graphics core. By purchasing such a board and, accordingly, a processor with built-in video, you will receive a kit that is quite suitable for working with documents and even watching videos in good quality.

If more advanced graphics work is required, for example for medium-sized video games or graphic applications, then you will use a separate video card, which means there is no point in overpaying for a graphics chipset that supports working with the built-in video processor - it is better if it ensures the maximum performance of the video card.

For the most powerful gaming computers and to a lesser extent for those that will work with graphics-intensive professional programs choose the most productive models that fully support working with multiple video cards.

I hope this article has opened the curtain a little for you on the mystery of motherboard chipsets and now you can more correctly choose these components for your computer! Well, to consolidate your knowledge, watch the video tutorial posted at the beginning of the article.

Comparing Intel chipsets is an incredibly entertaining activity, so today we will discuss the most noteworthy solutions from this manufacturer. We will also give some recommendations regarding choosing the best option when assembling a computer system.

Definition

So, today we are talking about Intel products. Chipsets from this manufacturer, like any other, are essentially a set of chips. This element is installed on the motherboard. This device connects together individual components in a computer system. In addition, Intel motherboard chipsets are responsible for the system logic. Most often, such elements are tied to a specific socket, in other words, we are talking about a processor socket. We'll talk more about these elements below.

Sandy Bridge

The earliest chipsets currently produced by Intel are the sixth series chipsets. They can still be purchased. The announcement of these solutions took place in 2011. They can install any central processor belonging to the Sandy or Ivy Bridge series.

There is one feature of such Intel products. Chipsets may refuse to interact with Evie Bridge without first updating the BIOS. The above computing solutions can most often be found with socket 1155. In addition, they are usually equipped with an integrated graphics processor. The characteristics of Intel sixth series chipsets have one important feature - these solutions include only one chip - the “south bridge”. The second is integrated into the processor. We are talking about the “northbridge”.

The most affordable solution in this series is the Intel H61 chipset. Based on it, you can create inexpensive office systems. Also, such computers can be suitable for educational purposes. A high-performance processor in a MiniATX motherboard that has minimal functionality looks out of place. This chipset allows you to install 2 RAM modules. There is one PCI-Express slot. The latter allows you to install an external graphics accelerator. There are 10 USB version 3.0 ports. Has four SATA to interface with hard drives or CD drive. The middle segment includes chipsets Q67, B65, Q65. If you compare them with the H61, the difference comes down to the number of RAM slots. In this case there are four of them. There are also more ports for connecting storage devices - as many as 5.

Evie Bridge

2012 gave the world another technical solution. They became the Ivy Bridge central processors. The device did not receive any fundamental differences compared to the one described above.

However, the technological process has changed. A transition was made from 32 nm to 22 nm. These chips have the same socket - 1155. Systems entry level were created based on the H61 chipset. For more productive options, H77, Q77, Q75 and B75 are used. These systems have one video card connector, as well as four video card slots. The B75 has the most modest parameters. We are talking about 4 USB 3.0 and 8 ports - standard 2.0, the only one SATA 3.0 and 5 - version 2.0. The disk subsystem is organized on the basis of the latter.

Haswell

In 2013, socket 1150 appeared. This solution did not bring revolutionary changes. However, the power consumption of the chips has changed. Significant transformations made it possible to achieve a reduction in the thermal package of the crystals without making changes to the technological process. Sets were released specifically for this socket system logic. Their parameters have a number of similarities with the previous generation of the seventh series.

In total, the described group includes 6 chipsets: Z87, P87, Q87, Q85, B85 and H81. The last solution in the given series has the most modest parameters. It received a couple of slots for RAM, two SATA 3.0 ports and the same number of version 2.0. There is also one compartment for a video card. As for USB ports, there are 8 and 2, respectively, 2.0 and 3.0. Motherboards based on the specified set of system logic most often install Pentium and Celeron chips. The B85 chipset has more RAM slots compared to the H81. There are 4 of them here. There are 4 SATA and USB ports each. The Q85 has 10 universal ports.

The solutions described above can often be found paired with Cor I3 computing chips. The characteristics of the Z87, P87, Q87 solutions are identical. They have six SATA 3.0, the same number of USB 3.0 (8 - 2.0), as well as 4 RAM slots.

Now let's take a closer look at these developments from Intel. Chipsets P87 and Q87. It should be noted that they are suitable for Cor Ai7. As for the Z87 solution, it is aimed at chips that have received the “K” index. Based on this solution you can create computer system with the ability to overclock the central processor.

Broadwell

These solutions appeared in 2014. They are manufactured using a 14 nm process technology. Few such processors have been produced. Thus, a large-scale update of chipsets was not noted.

The series includes two models - Z97 and H97. The second of these solutions is designed to work with a central processor that has a locked multiplier. It repeats the parameters of P87. The Z97 is a copy of the Z87, which also supports fifth-generation Kor processors.

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

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

For Intel processors on socket 1151 v2

Best option:
Maternal MSI board B360M MORTAR

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

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

For AMD processors on socket AM4

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

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

2. Basics of choosing the right motherboard

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

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

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

3.1. Chipset developers

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

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

3.2. Intel chipsets

The main modern Intel chipsets include the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.3. AMD chipsets

The main modern AMD chipsets include the following.

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

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

3.4. How do chipsets differ?

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

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

4. Motherboard manufacturers

The best motherboards in the above-average price range are made by ASUS, but they are also the most expensive. This company pays less attention to entry-level motherboards and in this case it is not worth overpaying for the brand.

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

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

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

Motherboards from other manufacturers are not so popular, they have a more limited range of models and I consider their purchase not advisable.

5. Motherboard form factor

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

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

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

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

There are other less common motherboard form factors.

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

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

6.1. Intel processor sockets

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

6.2. AMD processor sockets

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

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

8. Memory type and frequency supported

Modern motherboards support DDR4 memory. Inexpensive motherboards are designed for a lower maximum memory frequency (2400, 2666 MHz). Medium and high class can support memory with more high frequency(3400-3600 MHz).

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

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

9. Connectors for installing video cards

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

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

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

10. Slots for expansion cards

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

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

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

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

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

11.1. SATA connectors

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

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

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

11.2. M.2 connector

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

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

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

11.3. Motherboard power connector

Modern motherboards have a 24-pin power connector.

All power supplies are equipped with a similar connector.

11.4. CPU power connector

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

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

11.5. Location of internal connectors

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

12. Integrated devices

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

12.1. Integrated graphics card

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

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

12.2. Integrated sound card

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

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

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

12.3. Integrated network card

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

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

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

12.4. Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

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

13. External motherboard connectors

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

Description of connectors from top to bottom

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

14. Electronic components

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

Mid- and high-end motherboards may use higher quality electronic components (such as Japanese solid capacitors). Manufacturers often emphasize this with some kind of slogan: Solid Caps (solid-state capacitors), Military Standard (military standard), Super Alloy Power ( reliable system nutrition). These motherboards are more reliable and can last longer.

15. Processor power supply circuit

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

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

16. Cooling system

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

On mid- and high-end motherboards that are equipped with more powerful processors, it is advisable to have larger radiators.

17. Motherboard firmware

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

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

18. Equipment

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

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

19. How to find out the characteristics of the motherboard

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

20. Optimal motherboard

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

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

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

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

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

21. Setting up filters in the online store

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

22. Links

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

If you are planning to upgrade your computer, or have decided to build a new one, then one of the main components, the choice of which should be taken seriously, is the motherboard. Having answered first of all the fundamental question on what platform the entire PC will be built (AMD or Intel), you need to decide where, in fact, the selected processor will have to be installed. The characteristics of the motherboard are largely determined by which Intel chipset (and today we will talk about the products of this manufacturer) optimal choice. It depends on the purpose for which the computer is being assembled. So let's see what we can't do without, and what we can sacrifice. Today we will look at motherboards designed for installing an Intel processor and having socket 1151.

What is a chipset

A little theory to start with. To remove all the understatements and misunderstandings, let’s briefly look at what a chipset is and what it is needed for.

Those who have been familiar with computers for decades remember that the concept of a “chipset” once included at least two chips, called the “north” and “south” bridges. The first was responsible for connecting the processor with the video card and RAM, the second ensured the operation of SATA devices, served USB controllers, PCI-Express x1, sound chip, etc.

You can easily guess that the load on the north bridge is significantly higher, since exchange with the memory and video card occurs at high speeds. To reduce delays in communication with these devices, as well as simplify the circuit, the functions of the north bridge were taken over by the processor, which contains a memory controller, as well as a PCI-Express x16 bus controller.

Support work, more slow devices(SATA, USB, etc.) is still provided by the southbridge.

What are PCI-Express lines

When we looked at what it is, we talked about the PCI-Express bus and the lines used to connect these drives. To avoid any unclear issues, let’s define what PCI-Express lines are.

In the specifications for the processor there is such a characteristic as “Max. number of PCI Express channels". It shows how many lines (channels) the controller of this bus built into the processor can process. Desktop versions of processors have 16 lines. Processors intended for installation in mobile devices have a smaller number of lines - 14, 12.

What are they needed for? To connect a discrete video card, a PCI-Express x16 connector is used. It's easy to guess from the name that 16 lines of this bus are used. That is, it turns out that all the capabilities of the processor are used, because it is precisely the processor that ensures the processing of so many lines.

Yes, but you can use 2 (or more) video cards in SLI mode, but what about SSDs, which also need these same lines of the same PCI-Express bus, and how to connect other devices? This is where the need for an auxiliary chip arises, which is the chipset.

Intel chipset. Architecture

Installing a video card that uses 16 lines (channels) of the PCI-Express bus takes away all the resources that the processor can provide. In order not to deprive other components and to provide the ability to connect peripheral devices, the chipset has its own PCI-Express bus controller and has its own number of lines. At the same time, it also controls the distribution of lines provided by the processor. We will talk about the latest generations of chipsets of the 100th and 200th series, as the most relevant at the moment, i.e. as of mid-2017.

How does it all work? To begin with, let's say that the processor and chipset are connected to each other by the DMI bus. This is the only communication channel between these two components. The FDI bus, with the help of which an analog video signal was previously “forwarded” through the chipset, is a thing of the past. This means that the connection connector VGA monitor also no longer used. Its use is only possible by connecting an additional external converter from digital to analog signal.

Depending on the chipset, DMI may be version 2.0 or 3.0. Bandwidth is now measured not in the usual giga (mega) bits per second, but in transfers per second - T/s. For example, DMI 2.0 has a bus speed of 5 GT/s (gigatransfers per second), while DMI 3.0 has a bus speed of 8 GT/s.

Processors have a similar characteristic – “Frequency system bus" For example, the Intel i5-6500 processor has this value equal to 8 GT/s. If you install it in a motherboard with a chipset, communication with which is carried out via the DMI 2.0 bus, then the exchange speed will be 5 GT/s, i.e. all processor power will not be used. Of course, those 16 PCI-Express processor lines to which the video card is connected will work fully, but all other devices will be content with the PCI-Express bus version 2.0. Given the very limited possibilities for using the equipment, these capabilities are most likely sufficient.

Let's look at the main characteristics of the 100 and 200 series chipsets.

Chipset	H110	B150/B250	H170/H270	Z170/Z270
System bus frequency, GT/s	5	8
PCI-Express version	2.0	3.0
	6	8/12	16/20	20/24
PCI Express Configurations	x1, x2, x4
Max. number of DIMMs	2	4
Intel Optane Memory support	—	-/+	-/+
Max. USB quantity	10	12/12	14/14
Max. number of USB 3.0	4	6/6	8/8	10/10
Max. number of USB 2.0	10	12/12	14/14
Max. quantity SATA 3.0	4	6/6
RAID Configuration	—	—	0,1,5,10
	1x16			1×16, 2×8, 1×8+2×4
Overclocking support	—	-/-		+/+
	2	3/3

So, what valuable information can we glean from such a table? We have already talked about the connection between the processor and the chipset, with the exception of H110, this is DMI 3.0.

What all chipsets have in common is that in any version one video card will operate in PCI-Express 3.0 x16 mode. These lines are served directly by the processor. Further, the possibilities vary and depend on the characteristics of the chipset.

The maximum number of lines shows how many devices can be connected. There is a slight subtlety here. In reality, the number of connectors installed on a particular motherboard model may be too optimistic to use them all. Here's an example.

ASUS B150 PRO GAMING motherboard. What immediately catches your eye? Availability of two PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots. Cool? But don’t rush to the store to buy two video cards to set them in SLI or Crossfire mode. Firstly, SLI is not supported, and secondly, although Crossfire can be used, it is only in PCI-Express configurations x16+x4, i.e. the second video card will use only 4 lines provided by the chipset.

Let us remember that there are 8 of them in total. In order to somehow balance the use of the remaining lines, two PCI-Express 3.0 x1 slots are disabled in this case. This means that it will no longer be possible to install any controllers in them. They won't work.

When choosing a motherboard, you should take into account the number of devices you plan to use. If you have any controllers, plan to use an SSD drive in the M.2 slot on the PCI Express bus, or a pair of video cards (even in Crossfire mode), then you should take into account the capabilities of the chipset of the selected video card.

The same applies to the number of connectors for installing memory modules, connecting hard drives, and peripheral devices. The configuration of USB ports and the number of PCI-Express depends on the motherboard developers.

Neither the 100th nor the 200th family of chipsets independently support USB 3.1. Motherboard manufacturers have to use third-party controllers to add support for these protocols to their products. Expected later this year, the new generation of chipsets, the 300s, will have support for USB 3.1 and WLAN.

In principle, there is not much difference between the 100th and 200th generations. With the same number of supported SATA and USB, the only differences are a slightly larger number of PCI-Express lanes provided, support for Intel Optane, support for Kaby Lake processors “by definition,” and a few more differences that are not significant in a home computer.

Returning to how to decide which set of system logic is needed, let's look at what purposes which chipsets are suitable for, and in what cases buying a motherboard with one or another chipset is not justified.

H110

This is a highly stripped-down chipset suitable for assembly simple computers. Buying a motherboard built on it is justified if you are not planning any serious upgrade in the future. And no one will achieve high productivity. For a gaming PC, this is probably the worst option.

The minimum number of SATA, USB ports, and memory slots will not allow you to connect a large number of devices. There are only 6 PCI-Express lines, and version 2.0 imposes its own restrictions on the installation of various controllers. The power system is limited to using 5-7 phases. Memory with a maximum frequency of 2133 MHz is supported.

Typical Application – office computer, or a budget option for the home, which will be used for surfing the Internet, working with documents, etc. However, it is quite possible to install a full-fledged video card, which will require an appropriate processor.

You can pay attention to this chipset if you need the cheapest possible motherboard, and the amount of connected equipment will be limited to a couple of drives or a flash drive.

One of the cheapest boards based on this chipset is ASRock H110M-DGS, its cost is approximately 3,000 rubles.

B150/B250

The chipset is slightly better than the previous one. Although there is a certain reduction, it can already be considered as a candidate for purchase. Compared to the H110, it supports more SATA and USB devices, more PCI-Express lines, and version 3.0. Memory supported is DDR4-2133 for B150 and DDR4-2400 for B250.

If you do not plan to overclock, and you will not install more than 1 video card, then this is a very good option to consider. At the same time, there are 6 SATA connectors, the number of USB should also be enough in most cases. You cannot use 2 video cards in SLI mode, but Crossfire is available. Moreover, it is possible to have two M.2 ports for installing solid-state drives using the PCI-Express bus. The only limitation may be the small number of available bus lines.

You will get a computer on which you can play and surf the Internet. A sort of all-rounder for all occasions.

The cost of the boards is quite low. The price of the cheapest ASRock B150M-HDS is about 3,600 rubles.

H170/H270

This is perhaps the best choice for a home computer, including a gaming one. Only overclocking capabilities and the use of SLI mode for using video cards were cut. The power system uses 6-10 phases, which allows you to install very productive “stones”.

In all other respects, it’s a full-fledged chipset for very high-speed computer. It is possible to assemble a RAID array. If there is a need to use additional equipment - controllers, discrete sound cards, etc., then the capabilities of the chipset should be sufficient in almost any situation.

The cost of the cheapest Gigabyte GA-H170M-HD3 motherboard, although using DDR3 memory, on this chipset is approximately 4,300 rubles. The cost of boards with DDR4 memory (for example, MSI H270M BAZOOKA) starts at approximately 6,300 rubles.

Z170/Z270

The choice of this chipset is justified if at least one of the following conditions is present:

• It is necessary to install two video cards in SLI.
• There are plans to purchase a processor from the “K” series, with an unlocked multiplier, in order to overclock.

In general, motherboards based on this chipset are for enthusiasts who know what they need and for what purpose. The price range can be quite large, and motherboards may have certain features. For example, if we take the two cheapest motherboards with DDR4 memory, ASUS Z170-P costs approximately 7,200 rubles. and MSI Z170A PC Mate at about the same price, it turns out that the first has only 4 SATA connectors, 3 USB 3.0, and the second has 6 SATA, 6 USB 3.1. The second video card can only operate in PCI-Express 3.0 x4 mode.

More advanced models allow the use of video cards in SLI in PCI-Express 3.0 x8/x8 operating mode. However, we will talk about the intricacies of selecting motherboards another time.

Chipset for Xeon processors

The presence of Xeon series processors has always interested me in the possibility of using them in home computers. Moreover, in terms of their capabilities and price, they can seriously compete with the top solutions of the i7 series. To prevent this, 100 and 200 series chipsets do not support Xeon processors. There is a special set of chips for them - C232 and C236.

These chipsets appeared at the end of 2015 and have not been updated since then, although the Xeon CPU line is being updated. If you really want to use these processors, then the only solution is to choose a motherboard based on one of these chipsets.

Their main characteristics:

Chipset	C232	C236
PCI-Express version	3.0
Max. number of PCI Express lanes	8	20
PCI Express Configurations	x1, x2, x4
Max. number of DIMMs	4
Max. USB quantity	12	14
Max. number of USB 3.0	6	10
Max. number of USB 2.0	6	4
Max. quantity SATA 3.0	6	8
RAID Configuration	0,1,5,10
Possible configurations of PCI Express processor lines	1×16, 2×8, 1×8+2×4
Overclocking support	—	—
Number of supported displays	3

If you look closely, the characteristics of the C232 chipset are similar to those of the B150, and the C236 is in many ways similar to the Z170. The only difference is in the details. Thus, the C232 has RAID support, unlike the B150. The C236 has 2 more SATA ports than the Z170. At the same time, taking into account the age of the chipsets, the memory used is DDR4-2133. Overclocking is not available. At the same time, it is possible to use memory with ECC, however, only when using Xeon processors.

Conclusion. Intel chipset – which one to choose?

Frankly speaking, there is one more series of chipsets left – Q170/Q270. The number of motherboards on them is very small, and they are not of particular interest. In terms of their capabilities, the chipsets are close to the Z170/Z270, but lack overclocking capabilities and do not allow connecting video cards to SLI mode.

When planning to purchase a new motherboard, you should not neglect the chipset, which will be the best choice in specific conditions. The number of SATA connectors, USB ports, PCI-Express connectors, the presence of M.2 is important, but do not forget that Not right choice The chipset may not allow you to connect all the necessary devices.

We saw this with the H110. You won't be able to connect a large number of devices to it. In general, it should be chosen only for simple configurations, without a planned upgrade and with a minimum of components.

For most applications, it would be better to choose the B150/B250 or H170/H270. At the same time, buying processors with an unlocked multiplier will be an unnecessary waste of money, since it will not be possible to take advantage of the feature of these CPUs (overclock them).

To do this, you will need motherboards based on the Z170/Z270 chipset. You have to pay for the pleasure, but the possibility of overclocking and maximum convenience are worth it. A serious gaming computer without motherboards cannot be built on this set of system logic.

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

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

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

Where to begin

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

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

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

Intel X299 chipset and Intel Core X family processors

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

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

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

Kaby Lake-X

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

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

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

Skylake-X

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

Intel X299 chipset

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This technology is implemented in different ways. The classic option is to use a container card with a PCIe 3.0 x16 interface, which has four M.2 slots for SSD drives with a PCIe 3.0 x4 interface.

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

Intel 300 series chipsets and 8th generation Intel Core processors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Motherboard Manufacturers

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

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

Features of boards based on the Intel X299 chipset

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now about what the Basin Falls platform is needed for.

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

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

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

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

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

How to choose a board based on the Intel X299 chipset

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

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

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

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

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

Asus Prime X299-Deluxe board

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

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

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

ASRock X299 Taichi board

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

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

Asus WS X299 Sage board

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

Asus ROG Rampage VI Apex Board

Asus ROG Rampage VI Extreme board

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Features of boards based on Intel 300 series chipsets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now about the CNVi (Connectivity Integration) controller. It provides Wi-Fi (802.11ac, up to 1,733 Gbps) and Bluetooth 5.0 connections ( a new version standard). However, the CNVi controller is not a full-fledged network controller, but a MAC controller. For a full-fledged controller, you also need an Intel Wireless-AC 9560 card with an M.2 connector (E-type dongle). Moreover, no other card will do. Only Intel 9560, which supports the CNVi interface.

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

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

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

Intel H310

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

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

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