The motherboard for assembling a mid-range and premium PC within the AM2/AM2+/AM3 computer platform is completely true for the GA-M52L-S3. Although this solution was released a long time ago, but the system units based on it have sufficient speed and allow you to solve most problems. It is this computer component from a well-known manufacturer that will be discussed later.

Motherboard positioning

As noted earlier, the motherboard model Gigabyte GA-M52L-S3 is great for creating system block based on the AM2/AM2+ computing platform of medium and premium levels. This positioning is indicated by the support of the most productive chips of the Phenom X3 series. Also, the presence of SATA III ports for connecting drives indicates this belonging to it. Most optimally, this board is suitable for assembling gaming systems, servers entry level, graphics or workstations, print servers.

Equipment

The GA-M52L-S3 delivery list includes the following:

• This model motherboard.
• Metal plate-stub for mounting the board in the rear panel of the system unit.
• User manual with branded warranty card.
• A set of cables for connection.
• CD with electronic documentation and a set of drivers.

Chipset and socket

The nForce 520 LE chipset underlies the GA-M52L-S3. Its characteristics indicate that only one microcircuit is included in the composition. It simultaneously performs the functions of both the north bridge and the south. The processor socket in this motherboard is universal, and both AM2 and AM2+ chips can be installed in it. The use of the latter as part of such a computing system is preferable.

Processors

The GA-M52L-S3 boasts a fairly large list of supported CPU models. Supported processors may belong to computing platforms and even AM3. In the latter case, it will be necessary to perform the BIOS update operation to latest version. Otherwise, this motherboard could work in combination with the following CPU models:

As part of the AM2 computer platform, it was possible to install the following processors:

Among the CPU models of the AM2 + family, it was possible to install the following:

List of compatible AM3 chips with this system board consists of the following models of processor solutions:

An acceptable level of performance today is only provided only by latest models chips that have 4 or even 6 computing modules. That is, Athlon IIX4, Phenom IIX4 and Phenom IIX6 belong to this list. The first two families are equipped with 4 cores, and the last with six. Phenom II series chips can boast of higher performance due to the fact that they have 3 levels of cache memory. But the Athlon II fast memory only 2 levels, and this circumstance has an extremely negative effect on their performance. All other processor solutions within this platform are outdated and are suitable for solving the simplest tasks, which include office packages, playing various media files, or surfing the Internet.

Organization of the RAM subsystem

The motherboard from "Gigabyte" model GA-M52L-S3 is equipped with a 2-channel DDR2 RAM controller. Therefore, it is more optimal to install more modules with less memory than one with a larger size. For example, the performance of such a PC will increase significantly if, instead of 2 4 GB sticks, install 4 2 GB modules. This will allow you to get a speed increase of 10-15 percent in a number of tasks. The number of RAM slots for installing models is limited to 4. The largest amount of addressable RAM is set by the manufacturer at 16 GB. That is, in this case, you can install 4 modules of 4 GB each. It is most optimal to install modules with a nominal frequency of 800 MHz on such a motherboard. In all other cases, the performance of the computing system will be reduced.

Expansion slots and communication ports

Gigabyte GA-M52L-S3 boasts the presence of such expansion slots:

• The discrete graphics adapter in this case can be installed in PCI-E version 16.X.
• To install new modifications of internal expansion controller boards, there are 2 PCI E slots of version 1X.
• Legacy expansion controller models can be installed in PCI slots. There are 4 in this case.

Also included in this motherboard are the following communication ports:

• 2 PS/2 sockets.
• 1 LPT.
• 4 universal USB serial ports.
• 1 game port.
• 6 audio jacks for various purposes 3.5mm format.
• 1 RJ-45 network connector.

It is unlikely that today you can meet a person who has not heard about the leader in the production of computer components - Gigabyte. This Taiwanese manufacturer was one of the first to enter the Russian computer market and still does not give up its leading position. Under the Gigabyte brand, you can find video adapters, power supplies, cases, laptops, smartphones, tablets and peripherals. However, the largest share of sales belongs to motherboards. Occupying all positions in different price classes, this is practically the only brand that is able to satisfy the needs of users. According to statistics, every fifth personal computer installed Gigabyte motherboard. I would like to understand why the boards of this manufacturer are so valuable. To do this, you need to study the characteristics of devices, ease of setup and connection, as well as research reviews about the manufacturer.

Gathering information before buying

All professionals in the field of IT technology recommend that before buying any product, go to the official website of the manufacturer in order to make sure that you are buying not only hardware, but the whole range of services, from drivers and full instructions to utilities and timely technical updates BIOS. After making sure that the drivers for the Gigabyte motherboard on the official website are present for all models released for different markets over the past ten years and finding the latest ones, we can conclude that the manufacturer constantly monitors the update of its resource and first of all thinks about users. Judging by the numerous reviews on specialized forums, Gigabyte company from the first day of its appearance on the market, this is what attracted attention. After all, as you know, at first computer components were purchased second hand, and with the search for drivers under old Windows there have always been problems. Without software from the official site or installation disk, the system refused to work.

Keep up with the times

Gigabyte is involved in the development latest systems IT industry. She has signed contracts with many computer parts manufacturers in the world. Therefore, any presentation of the latest chipset at exhibitions and in the media is accompanied by a finished Gigabyte product. An example is the Gigabyte GA-Z170X Gaming G1 motherboard, the existence of which was discovered on the opening day of the Computex 2015 exhibition, dedicated to transmitting 4K Ultra HD images to the screen in games. Oddly enough, but it is the presented product from Gigabyte that copes with the task without any problems. All this suggests that the manufacturer keeps up with the times and does not allow itself to use old technologies in production, providing the end user with maximum opportunities.

First meeting

The first thing that catches the eye of a happy buyer is the Gigabyte motherboard manual. This manual is aimed at a user who is far from IT technologies. Everything is written so conveniently and clearly that it will not be difficult for the owner to install the board into the case and fully connect all devices, including control buttons, connecting the front panel and indication, which is sometimes very difficult to do even for a specialist in the absence of instructions.

When reading reviews about the manufacturer Gigabyte, especially about its motherboards, one can come across many questions about the purpose of the available note fields in the manual. The answer is simple: the manufacturer offers the user to keep independent records of the installation sequence of the device, for memory. However, this is not necessary, since the instruction does not need to be supplemented.

First start

Before connecting the Gigabyte motherboard to the power supply, before the first start, it is imperative to check correct connection hard drives, if there are several of them in the system. Integrated in the BIOS, an intelligent detection and tuning system optimizes not only system startup time, but also power and cooling management for hard media performance. In case one of hard drives was connected incorrectly, the next time the user turns it on, it will take a lot of time to reset the settings and re-optimize, which can improve the performance of the entire system. Automatic setting when connected, judging by the reviews on many IT forums, it will be of interest only to novice users, and professionals prefer to customize the system for themselves, starting with an increase in the frequency of work CPU and ending with the shutdown of the temperature monitoring system, the sensors of which are stuffed with the entire Gigabyte motherboard.

Decent work with any operating system

Connecting a Gigabyte motherboard with an intelligent system is not the only positive moment from the manufacturer. A valuable factor is the complete compatibility of the hardware with any existing operating system, which can, without installing drivers, have full access to all technologies on the motherboard. It is clear that the manufacturer's recommendations should be taken into account and in order to improve all kinds of characteristics in the operation of the system, it is necessary to install the system drivers that come with the device. Apart from drivers that are only for operating systems Windows families, on the disk you can find a digital version of the instructions and all kinds of proprietary utilities. Judging by the feedback from the owners of motherboards from the Gigabyte family, they would like to see branded utilities for others such as MacOS and Linux, because from year to year these platforms attract more and more attention from users.

Game on two fronts

It cannot be said that the basic characteristic of the Gigabyte motherboard is the chipset. In one hundred percent of cases, this is the totality of all the latest technologies in one device, providing the end user with a full range of opportunities for work and play. Gigabyte, as they say in IT circles, works on two fronts. More precisely, it creates platforms for both Intel and AMD. Recently, "playing on two fronts" has been practiced by all motherboard manufacturers, with the possible exception of Intel itself. In terms of compatibility of motherboards and video adapters on different chipsets, Gigabyte has never had problems. You can easily install a video card from nVidia on a board designed to install AMD processors and vice versa. Such interchangeability is only welcomed by users, judging by their numerous reviews.

Common user mistakes

Judging by the statistics, every third user, trying to improve the characteristics of their equipment, downloads drivers for all their devices from open file exchangers, completely ignoring the official websites of manufacturers. As a result, infection is widespread. operating system all kinds of viruses and programs remote access to personal information. All owners are strongly advised to download utilities and drivers for the Gigabyte motherboard only from the official website of the manufacturer. The problem is that most utilities and drivers work directly with the board's electronics, and tampering with the hardware can cause physical damage to the device's hardware. For example, a banal shutdown and an increase in voltage on all buses can, in the literal sense, burn all installed devices.

New Device Features

It's no secret that they are constantly looking for opportunities to improve the technical characteristics of already sold devices. Upgrading the version may fix compatibility issues with some devices, add support for new processors, or change the control menu. Before updating a Gigabyte motherboard, you need to visit the official website of the developer, find your device using the search engine and make sure that a new one is available. BIOS updates. If we turn to the numerous reviews of the owners, we can conclude that in the absence of any problems in the operation of the motherboard, it is highly not recommended to update the device. There is no point in improving something that already works perfectly.

The world's best cooling system

Each manufacturer of motherboards can boast of proprietary technologies, the presence of various connectors and interfaces. But any Gigabyte motherboard, unlike its competitors, has effective system cooling components and chips. All microcircuits, connectors and capacitors are placed so as not to interfere with air circulation inside the system unit. This is a truly unique architecture that actually works, and is not just described in the instructions. Good cooling is known to improve the performance of the entire system.

Finally

Don't let the appearance of most Gigabyte motherboards confuse a potential owner. The lack of colorful stickers and aggressive coloring will never help you quickly connect and configure the device. Accordingly, beauty has nothing to do with cooling the system. The Gigabyte motherboard focuses on user experience during assembly. The absence of unnecessary components only facilitates the installation of components and provides conditions for maximum cooling of all devices. The manufacturer's warranty period of 36 months is a pretty serious indicator that Gigabyte supplies worthy devices to the market.

Company GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co., Ltd, a leading manufacturer of motherboards, 3D graphics accelerators and other key components for the desktop PC, announces a new line of Intel X79 Express motherboards for enthusiasts. Providing support for a new family Intel processors® Core™ i7 2nd generation for high performance PCs, boards based on the Intel X79 Express chipset deliver unrivaled performance desktop computers performance and a new level of scaling and resource management. GIGABYTE 3D Power™ Utility and 3-Way Digital Power Engine allow you to control your PC's power, while GIGABYTE 3D BIOS™ provides access to an intuitive UEFI BIOS GUI.

“The new GIGABYTE X79-series board family provides enthusiasts and professionals with unprecedented control over their PC hardware,” commented Tim Handley, Associate Director of Marketing, GIGABYTE Motherboards. “In turn, the GIGABYTE 3D Power and 3D BIOS utilities provide avid gamers, extreme overclockers and digital content developers with excellent prospects for absolute dominance over key PC subsystems.”

GIGABYTE 3D Power™ Utility (patent pending)

Owners of GIGABYTE X79-series motherboards can take full advantage of GIGABYTE's exclusive 3D Power utility (powered by proprietary 3-Way Digital Power Engine for PWM and RAM), which provides proper comprehensive power control. Thanks to the new digital PWM controller (the GIGABYTE 3D Power complex includes three controllers serving RAM modules, VTT and VSA), regulation and control of parameters is carried out in real time. GIGABYTE 3D Power™ signature feature through proprietary GUI allows you to control and perform real-time calibration and surge protection of the CPU power supply, VTT, IMC and 4-channel memory subsystem.

More information about 3D Power™ can be found at:

GIGABYTE 3D BIOS™ Utility (Patent Pending)

With UEFI DualBIOS™ technology, GIGABYTE's exclusive 3D BIOS™, which revolutionizes the traditional BIOS, features a highly visual 3D interface that even novice users can understand. In addition, along with the 3D graphics mode, the utility can operate in advanced mode for users who prefer to independently understand the settings inherited from the “old” BIOS. This makes it possible to evaluate the impact various settings BIOS on the performance of key PC subsystems.

For more information about the 3D BIOS™, please visit:

Key features Intel platforms X79

GIGABYTE's X79-series motherboards are designed to unlock the full potential of the new generation of Intel® Core™ i7 processors based on an updated microarchitecture (LGA2011 socket). Among the key advantages of the new CPUs, first of all, we should note the new functionality six cores, a massive 15MB L3 cache, and four channels of DDR3 RAM.

With a full 40 PCI Express lanes, enthusiasts computer games enjoy maximum video performance in SLI™ and CrossFireX™ ​​modes.

GIGABYTE G1.Assassin 2

Designed as the ultimate gaming PC foundation, the GIGABYTE G1.Assassin 2 motherboard combines the unrivaled performance of the new X79 platform with the exclusive design philosophy of the award-winning G1.Killer series. G1.Assassin 2 features a first-class SoundBlaster Digital Audio (20K2) processor, advanced sound presentation technologies X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity® and EAX® Advanced HD™ 5.0 from Creative, and the Bigfoot Networks Killer™ E2100 progressive network gaming platform (enables network traffic optimization and management for the best online gaming experience). As for the video subsystem, full support 3-Way SLI™ and CrossFireX™ ​​modes will remove all performance limits even in the most resource-intensive 3D games.

GIGABYTE X79-UD7

Motherboard GA-X79-UD7 provides CPU performance worthy of a champion, and is equipped with proprietary technologies typical for extreme overclocking configurations. Implemented on board GA-X79-UD7 digital PWM controllers, serving four full-sized PCIe slots, which provide the ability to configure the video subsystem in 4-Way GPU mode, and a set of extremely useful overclocking features will not let overclockers get bored in the process fine tuning next generation Intel® Core™ i7 CPU settings. Thanks to the exclusive design of the OC VRM module, high-quality component base (in particular, highly reliable POS capacitors) and OC-Touch function, users have access to real-time control of various CPU parameters. The OC-PEG feature provides additional power to the graphics card array through two standard SATA ports, ensuring stable video performance in 4-Way SLI™ and CrossfireX™ ​​modes.

GIGABYTE X79-UD5

GIGABYTE motherboard GA-X79-UD5 is a full-fledged, modern media center. Designers and digital content creators working in CAD programs and professional multimedia applications will appreciate the 8 DIMM slots for DDR3 RAM and the unique GIGABYTE 3D Power utility. The platform, equipped to the maximum, is able to easily cope with any resource-intensive applications that place high demands on the processor and memory subsystem. On the back of the product, owners of the GA-X79-UD5 will find an OC button that provides instant performance boosts when needed.

GIGABYTE Exclusive Bluetooth 4.0 Module / Wi-Fi Expansion Card*

GIGABYTE X79-series motherboards come with an exclusive PCIe expansion card that is compatible with the latest standards wireless communication Bluetooth 4.0 and IEEE 802.11 b/g/n. Progressive bluetooth standard 4.0 disposes smart technology Ready, which first debuted on mobile devices, including the new Apple® iPhone®4s. From now on, transferring important content from your smartphone or tablet to your PC will be easier and much faster than ever.

*Availability of bundled module varies by region.

GIGABYTE X79-Series Motherboard Models

Detailed information about motherboards GIGABYTE X79-Series is located at:

http://www.gigabyte.com/MicroSite/304/x79.html

GIGABYTE AORUS Ultra Gaming motherboards for advanced gamers and enthusiasts. Bright aggressive design will decorate the most stylish gaming case. At the same time, the proprietary RGB Fusion function will allow you to create individual lighting patterns, corporate identities and illumination shows. With GIGABYTE AMP-UP Audio, this series of motherboards delivers high-end gaming sound for a more realistic gaming experience. An important feature of these boards is the presence of Smart Fan 5, which provides the most favorable temperature conditions for PC operation without compromising performance, as well as reliable protection against electrostatics and breakdowns. Durable Black solid capacitors used in motherboards of this series have a long service life, which ensures stable operation of the system in any mode, including extreme settings.

GIGABYTE Gaming - motherboards for gaming machines. They provide RGB FUSION and LED tracing of the audio subsystem area, which gives complete freedom for LED modding. This series features LGA1151 and AM4 compatible models, allowing you to build a PC based on the new 8th Gen Intel or AMD Ryzen processors. The exclusive design of the built-in audio subsystem provides high-quality detail and expansion of the sound. And protection against humidity and high temperatures makes the Gaming series boards as reliable as possible. Support for the Smart Quick Boost function allows you to automatically perform the overclocking procedure in cases where a performance boost is needed. While the optional OC Touch panel gives you quick access to on-the-fly overclocking features for key system components.

GIGABYTE Ultra Durable - motherboards with a high-quality element base. Such boards are able to work stably under conditions of increased loads and maintain optimal temperature conditions. They are highly energy efficient and have a long service life, support SIV monitoring and information on the current state of the system, as well as Intel Optane technology, which provides a performance boost for enthusiast platforms. Support for DDR4 memory modules, the ability to scale the video subsystem through CrossFire technology and the availability USB connectors 3.1 Gen1 makes the boards of the Ultra Durable family universal for building systems for any task.

The choice of the motherboard can drive any user into a dead end. The thing is not easy, a lot depends on its characteristics. It is also not easy to understand the models of one segment, even if you have a rough idea of ​​what is at stake. One way or another, at the beginning of a difficult path of choice, you need to decide on the manufacturer. For example, the Gigabyte motherboard performed well at the end of last year. Models are competitive, high-quality, diverse, and most importantly, affordable.

variability

Motherboards can be defined into different categories. Most often there are groups that include models with the most popular processor sockets. You can divide motherboards by chipset models or by options for certain platforms.

Given the latest updated variations, the Gigabyte motherboard based on the Intel Z170 chipset proved to be the best. In this category you can find the largest number of good options that will suit both ordinary user as well as a fan of computer games.

We will consider the three most popular models, which also vary in price. The most powerful of all is the Gigabyte Z170X-Gaming G1 motherboard. There are also Gigabyte Z170X-Ultra Gaming and Gigabyte Z170-HD3. What is their difference, we will consider further.

A budget option

You should start with the cheapest and most affordable option. We are talking about the Gigabyte Z170-HD3. The model is presented on the flagship chipset from Intel, so it is quite popular among buyers. In addition, it supports a new type of DDR3L RAM, which has a voltage of 1.35 V, as well as the ability to connect DDR3 with a voltage of 1.5 V. The cost of this option ranges from $ 120-130.

Equipment

A review of the Gigabyte motherboard should start with the package and delivery. The fact is that each model has its own version of the feed. The box looks presentable. A large branded Ultra Durable logo flaunts on the front, below is the model, memory support and brief information about the chipset.

Behind the box there is a lot of necessary and not very information. Here are different connection diagrams, as well as brief specifications, system requirements, key features and, of course, supported technologies.

Inside the box is the board itself. It comes with instructions for step by step guide. There is a warranty brochure. CD with "firewood" and software. Provided 2 SATA cables, a set for connecting the "motherboard" to the front panel of the computer case. Also inside you can find a branded plug for the interface panel.

Appearance and features

The characteristics of the Gigabyte Z170-HD3 motherboard are very worthy at the present time. The textolite of the board is made in brown color, the format of the board is ATX. The width has become slightly smaller relative to previous versions- only 20 cm. It's hard to say anything about the design. But the board looks neat, restrained and strict. The layout of all elements is successful, so even with self-assembly there should be no problems.

The lower field occupies a huge number of connectors. There is also the possibility of connecting audio connectors, as well as a block for the front panel, a jumper for resetting CMOS. There are generally two blocks of USB 2.0 ports. It is possible to use six ports, four of which are inside, and two are located on the interface panel.

The disk system is also quite widely represented. It is possible to use one M.2 Socket 3 port, three connectors for SATA Express. There are four slots for RAM on the board. As mentioned earlier, you can install not only DDR3, but also DDR3L. The RAM mode is dual-channel. For it to work correctly, you must insert the records into either the odd or even ports. You can also occupy four slots at once.

Cooling

Naturally, any Gigabyte motherboard has its own cooling system. This model has two radiators, one of which removes heat from the chipset, and the second one protects the batteries. System testing showed good results: the chipset only reached 33 degrees, the power chokes - up to 42, and the power radiator - up to 37.

During the overclocking of the board, the temperature rose slightly. In the case of the chipset, only by one unit, on the other elements - by 5-10 degrees.

Overclocking

Few people know that the company provides automatic overclocking in BIOS. Gigabyte Z170-HD3 managed to overclock quite well. The processor frequency increased to 4600 MHz, and the memory began to work at 2133 MHz.

In general, this model proved to be the most successful option when switching from LGA1150 Socket to LGA1151. Also, many will be pleased with the presence of support not only for DDR3, but also for DDR3L. The affordability of this board also plays a huge role. The "motherboard" has practically no flaws. She has improved the element base, also added support for some technologies. In the presence of many ports, advanced audio subsystem.

game option

Another good model is the GA-Z170X-Ultra Gaming. This board is a little more expensive than the previous one, by 30-40 dollars. But it is already positioned as a gaming component for the PC. It supports all kinds of processors and also LGA1151.

The box turned out to be really attractive, bright and catchy. The main technologies and features are listed on the front. There is a description on the back. key features, interfaces, ports, specifications, etc.

There is nothing unusual inside. Since the model is on average price segment, you should not expect any special frills in the configuration. Inside there are the necessary cables, a disk with drivers and software, a manual, an SLI bridge and a company label on the player's door.

Specification

Externally, this model differs from the previous one. But the board has an ATX form. Textolite received black color and laconic arrangement of elements. I was surprised by the rear panel, which is not overgrown with a huge number of ports. It has everything you need for two types of USB 3.1 cables, also HDMI connections, DisplayPort, USB 3.0/2.0 and other useful ports.

For RAM, there are four slots and support for DDR4 type. The maximum amount of RAM has increased to 64 GB. In general, it is possible to connect two video cards at once. On the one hand, this option seems rather limited, and on the other hand, it is quite a common solution for the average gamer. After all, if a player needs something more, he will most likely choose a motherboard that is an order of magnitude higher.

In terms of overclocking potential, this Gigabyte motherboard received good reviews. It cannot be said that the improvement has shown unprecedented results, but they are quite satisfactory, especially regarding automatic overclocking.

In general, the GA-Z170X-Ultra Gaming model, which, although not distinguished by special characteristics, still became an excellent option for those who would like to purchase a board with the most advantageous combination of quality and performance. In principle, in order to assemble a gaming PC, this model has everything.

SLI and CrossFireX configurations are supported. It is possible to support simultaneously four slots for RAM with an operating frequency of up to 3866 MHz. Processor contacts received gold plating to increase the service life. There are also a sufficient number of different ports and slots. A nice addition was the presence of a cool red backlight.

Expensive option

And here is the best motherboard on the Z170 chipset at the present time can be considered Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming G1. The option is perfect for those who are going to create a gaming machine for themselves and upgrade the motherboard. Gigabyte, as usual, spent a lot of time appearance, but also did not forget about the good stuffing and quality materials. The only reason that can stop a buyer is a fairly high price.

Peculiarities

This motherboard received the E-ATX format, which fully satisfies all the latest technologies and consumer desires. Since the model is the flagship not only among cheaper models, but also in its price segment, it received all sorts of ports, connectors and slots. It also supports a huge number of useful technologies for gamers.

It runs on the LGA1151 socket, the chipset is the Intel Z170 Express, which additionally works with the PLX PEX8747. RAM DDR4 type is used here. Under it, four slots and support for two channels are allocated. As a result, you can equip your PC with 64 GB of RAM.

In general, all the elements are in the usual places, they are easy to find, connecting the Gigabyte motherboard will not cause difficulties. In addition, in the box, in addition to a huge number of different cables, adapters, there is also an accessible user manual.

The overclocking potential did not show particularly surprising results. Nevertheless, the model has it. In general, the model turned out to be too luxurious. The buyer really will have to fork out well. The Skylake platform often requires large investments, but they are aimed at excellent results.