Sapphire unveils a new budget graphics card for golfers and a graphics processor based on AMD Radeon HD7770 the GHz OC Edition. And the specialist graphics solutions AMD gives a boost to the HD7770 GPU by offering a frequency of 1100 MHz with a factory overclocking.

The HD7770 is part of the family of graphics processors "Southern Island" like the Radeon 7900 and 7800. But this time it is a new GPU called "Cape Verde" keeping common characteristic burning twenty-eight nanometers, support for the PCI Express 3.0 technology AMD Core Zero Power and AMD Eyefinity. Onboard memory on the HP G6  HD7770 OC Edition GHz has a capacity of 1GB clocked at 1250MHz frequency is 100MHz higher than the frequency recommended by the foundry. The cooling system of the HD7770 OC Edition GHz is a model exclusive to the brand and should be quieter while being more efficient. So for a hundred euros, HD7770 OC Edition GHz she is able to provide sufficient performance to provide a comfortable level of play?

Presentation
Southern Island

Begin with take the entire range offered by AMD GPU. The high-end models for 7900. They are recommended for players who do not wish any concession on quality graphics and fluidity of the most demanding titles. The 7800 also declined in 7850 and 7870 versions are part of the Latitude E5520 range performance. It retains enough power to play all the latest titles in high resolution but their limitations will be felt on screen or multi WQHD resolutions. Finally, the 7700 GPUs are the most accessible due to lowered specifications.

GHz HD7770 Edition

With 1.5 billion transistors for the HD7770 is almost two times less than the HD7800 and is therefore 640 units of calculation are mbedded is also half the hd7870. The number of ROPS is halved compared to other Radeon 7000 because it is equal to 16. As limited memory to 1024MB, sufficient capacity to view the characteristics of the chip. The last amputation for the memory bus from 256 bits to 128 bits.

Sapphire HD7770 OC Edition GHz

Sapphire, one wants above all offer a range of map as complete as possible in order to meet the exact needs of users while on the other hand, the confusion may reign among the general public. Just for the HD7770, the brand has in its catalog six references are distinguished by their specificities but also their cooling systems or video outputs. Both Dell Latitude E6320 models are based on short PCB more suited to small enclosures while the other four keep a long PCB can accommodate a cooler more imposing. The map is the most advanced Vapor-X and even if it does not have the right to higher frequencies but the cooling system is by far the most luxurious. If the version GHz HD7770 is clocked at 1000MHz, Sapphire dope his card with 100MHz for the GPU more like passing memory 1250MHz instead of 1150MHz recommended by AMD. We can install the HD7770 OC Edition GHz on motherboards supporting PCI Express 3.0 backwards compatibility though is assured. We may also use the 3D gaming thanks to AMD Eyefinity. The three video outputs allow managing multiple screens and Radeon HD7770 can enjoy the latest technology DirectX 11.1. All these features are coupled with AMD PowerTune, a device allowing the HD7770 OC Edition GHz to achieve a power consumption level of the lowest office use.

With a little more than 18 cm long, the HD7770 OC Edition GHz will have no difficulty integrating into the case more compact and even some mini-ITX configurations are possible. It occupies two PCI slots in shell height and black plastic finishes gives a very satisfactory futuristic tone enhanced by simulating the carbon stickers. Fan with a diameter of 80mm at the center of the seat HD7770 OC Edition GHz. While the shell is matte, the  Latitude E6420 batteries blades are shiny black. A clever mix of leading to a more convincing look. Side bracket, four video outputs share first slot and the second has improved dissipation vents air. Outputs are DVI, HDMI and two mini DisplayPort. At the rear of the HD7770 OC Edition GHz, a power connector pins six auxiliary takes place on a completely bare PCB other components.

Behind the blue PCB, no memory chipset.

In the cooler, we realize how difficult it is to justify such a length. Three power stages are between the GPU and the video outputs. Four memory chips surrounding the HD7770. As always with Sapphire, the manufacturing quality is significantly appointment. The cooling system is classic. A base connected to two copper heatpipes, all traversed by aluminum fins. While the Radeon HD 7770 is not willing to generated high heat dissipation, the cooler is most convincing for a map of its kind. The nine fan blades have a 80mm design known to be effective both in terms of Latitude E6420 ATG performance on silence. More he enjoys PWM technology allows precise control of the speed according to the GPU temperature.

Bundle

Quite rare to be specified, Sapphire generously by including in its bundle in addition to VGA adapter, molex converter, flexible CrossFireX bridge an HDMI cable and an adapter DiplayPort mni DisplayPort.

High quality graphics

On low quality, we systematically disabled all options available. The anti aliasing as tessellation are configured minimum or disabled.
Details of any other filters and textures were also disabled. Medium quality, we set anti aliasing to 4X, and texture filtering in general 8. We did the same about tessellation. Finally, in high quality, we pushed all the options possible. We begin our series of benchmarks with the most popular of them: Futuremark 3DMark 2011 to obtain an excellent indicator for the Latitude E6520 performance of our graphics cards.

We use a resolution three levels of detail:

Bottom: MSAA 1, 1 and the anisotropy tesselation 1.
Intermediate: MSAA to 4, 5 and the anisotropy tessellation to 10
High: MSAA to 8, 16 and anisotropy tessellation to 15

We compare the results of the HD7770 OC Edition GHz GTX 650 Ti with and even if it achieved better results in this test, we find that our Saphhire card is capable of exceeding 1000 points in high resolution and high detail . Heaven is speaking and we note that the significant differences in 3DMark do not occur here because the cards are very similar. The high level of detail is very expensive to HD7770 OC Edition GHz and his favorite is the intermediate level. Otherwise it will fall to reach a resolution fluid framerate. AvP is as undemanding and HD7770 OC Edition GHz embarks enough power to run this as a high resolution in high detail. Again, the two cards are neck and neck. Our favorite test always gives the advantage to the competitor Nvidia. As in Heaven, the  HP Pavilion DV4 results are a little tight in high detail except in low resolution. By cons in the intermediate level, HD7770 OC Edition GHz is doing well. Hard Reset AvP joined undemanding and is perfect for players who can count on the HD7770 OC Edition GHz to display excellent fluidity even at high resolution and high detail. Sniper Elite V2 is part of our testing the most advanced and even intermediate level of detail, only the lowest resolution available is still lack of anti-aliasing filtering too demanding.

Overclocking

Overclocking

Good news! Tools dedicated to overclocking video cards provide the ability to increase by 50% the "Power Limit" or authorization to exceed the maximum TDP. Bad news, the voltage of the HD7770 OC Edition GHz can not be changed and suddenly not on our test model to win over 40MHz. This is understandable because finally enjoying a factory overclocking the card more rapidly approach its limits. For memory, it easily reaches 1400MHz 100MHz while already gained through setting operated by Sapphire. This rise does not result generally increases performance important but they can potentially give a small boost in specific cases where there is a fair bit. Gains are only 3.5% of the GPU and 12% of the RAM. 3DMark, you win between 25 and 100 points. Remember, the Latitude E6510 cards in this category are not designed for this type of practice. Under Metro, the situation is far more interesting because in intermediate level, more than 50 FPS with our overclocking.

Temperatures, noise and consumption

The temperatures of the HD7770 OC Edition GHz are perfectly mastered with less than 65 ° C maximum. At rest, it stagnates at 30 ° C. Overclocked or not, the fan speed remains close to 40% resulting in a low rotational speed. At rest, the speed is high enough as it is hovering around 1200 RPM. In operation, the Dell Studio 1555 HD7770 OC Edition GHz reaches 1700 RPM. Silence will he go to? At 50% it is still at a level 39dB audible content but the absence of a fairly high speed. By resting against 35.6dB with the card is completely silent. The power consumption is very low with a maximum of 150 watts for all of our test platform.

Conclusion

A hundred and fifteen euros, Sapphire HD7770 presents a convincing GHz OC Edition capable of standing up to the GTX 650 Ti in many cases when it is fifteen euros more expensive. But AMD is currently licensed for the excellent Far Cry 3 which makes an excellent case representing a saving of forty five euros. And if that was not enough to convince, then we can get 20% discount on Medal of Honor Warfighter.

We always appreciate the Pavilion DV7 quality of manufacturing high Sapphire and design both simple and elegant allowing it to fit into any PC without the risk of clash with the colors too garish. Our many measures have clearly shown that the HD7770 OC Edition GHz is capable of playing comfort in many recent titles in DirectX 11 provided they do not push the filtering options to their maximum.

A concession perfectly acceptable because the rate of HD7770 OC Edition GHz. If this new Sapphire card remains efficient in terms of consumption, the cooling system is very quiet at idle but still audible operating temperatures to keep completely safe. In order to gain quiet operation, you can appeal to the excellent application proposed by the brand: Trixx allows to intervene on the fan speed. And even if overclocking the Radeon HD7770 did not want to break records, we do him absolutely will not mind because the cards in this category are not designed for this Dell Vostro 1520 type of practice. We therefore recommend the Sapphire HD7770 OC Edition GHz all golfers accepting some concessions on the anti-aliasing filter.

Tags: Latitude E5500 batteries, HP Pavilion DV6 , Pavilion dv6000

Assembled with love by Asus for fans of the Republic of Gamers line, the Tytan CG8890 is no doubt a Toshiba PA3534U-1BRS PC exception, whether in terms of configuration effort or aesthetic, with its system overclocking hot well staged. Delirium but the manufacturer is really a perfect product? Is it worth the € 5,000 required? See this in more detail ...

The first face to face with the Asus ROG Tytan of intimidating, and actually quite annoying. Indeed, there are few really heavy boxes to be delivered to us, those that require you to seek the help of a colleague to bring the monster to the lab. Colleague who will not hesitate to ask you how often you use your membership card to the nearby gym ... And muscles must once again put to good use to succeed in the Tytan out of the box and manipulate the photo shoot rigor. Casually, near 2000W lighting was quickly off his sweater.

"I saw a big beast ..."

But despite the efforts, the pleasure of discovery remains present, because there is something impressive during the unpacking. We know the Asus ROG Tytan of, and for good reason, we have tested the model CG8580. Yes, but now it is the Sony VAIO VGN-AR630 , which is equipped with a configuration more balèze with a GeForce GTX 690 and a Core i7-3960X and above which has the famous opening mechanisms motorized walls and cover, hiding many small additional fans to better cool the configuration during periods of extreme stress, in addition of course to add a pinch of geek style 100% to the bike.

This is definitely a machine that does not go unnoticed. Firstly, it is obviously quite impressive size that strikes. Full box weighs approximately 24 Kg, and measures 57 cm high, 36 cm in width and 63 cm deep. These are maximum dimensions identified as the Tytan is far from being a stupid cube. Very angular, sleek design is intended, such as VGP-BPS14 laptops in this range inspired by American stealth fighters, and it fits perfectly with the image that can be overclocked from a configuration-oriented "gamer". The idea of ​​this computer with Asus ROG is clear: to offer lovers of beautiful objects an original configuration and very muscular without requiring them to leave or the screwdriver or the Dremel. And who says PC uncompromising also says need to incorporate components of high-end experience to deliver the highest performance possible, but also justify a high selling price.

A choice of more components "ROG"

As such, the Tytan CG8580 was able to show a bit disappointing, especially for fans of the Asus ROG range. In fact, many did not understand how a computer that has a personable Republic of Gamers logo could for example not be fitted with a ASUS ROG motherboard, motherboard that is yet the market reference Asus , one which is the world leader. Idem, the onboard graphics GeForce GTX 680 was a reference, not a model in the colors of factory overclocked Asus ROG. Brief remarks that the manufacturer has taken into account the time comes to prepare the list of components for Tytan CG8890, as we shall see.

But before plunging his hands into this monster, you must first remove its walls connected by cables to the configuration, via a control card installed to manage the spreading mechanism and automated ventilation. Once the configuration is laid bare, we find the housing base, a gray metal cage much more classic than that suggested the appearance of Tytan. Inside, we see the first presence of a watercooling system for the processor (it would also be interesting for config 'at this price, and given its positioning as other components benefit from this cooling mode ...), installation kit quad-channel RAM (16GB G.Skill DDR3 2133 MHz, as to fully exploit the Core i7-3960X and X79 chipset), mounting a GeForce GTX 690 dual-GPU (this is not ROG, but the GTX 690 is only available in the reference model ...) and the sound card Xonar Phoebus, or the participation of two SanDisk SSD U100 128 Go mounted in RAID 0 for speed storage part, also complemented by a Seagate 2TB Everything plugged into a VGP-BPS13 motherboard high-quality and comprehensive oriented "gaming", the Rampage IV Formula Asus ROG stamped ATX format. The rear panel wants comprehensive (USB 3.0, eSATA, RJ45), with the presence of a PS / 2 port which necessarily interested players (anti-ghosting), or a Clear CMOS button resets the BIOS settings if mishandled.

The side of the processor, in addition to the watercooling system which is mounted above (including the pump operator and a heater installed in the rear topped with a 120mm fan quite noisy at full speed), you can not miss the Turbo Gear overclocking a system of pre-programmed and can not be changed. Indeed, if the Core i7-3960X Intel processor (Sandy Bridge-E with 6 physical cores with HyperThreading) is clocked at 3.3 GHz output box, it is overclocked to 3.8 GHz base in Tytan the CG8890. After first press the button "speed" of the case, it is automatically increased to 4 GHz, while the noisy opening system implements walls from the Tytan in "Transformers." A second press of the button changes the hot processor to 4.2 GHz, the maximum frequency. If the system does not require overclocking to restart his machine is a definite plus, however we regret that the machine's BIOS does not allow the user to define itself the level of overclocking at all levels. Overclocking the VGP-BPS12 Battery  reference does not benefit the other hand, with a GPU clocked at 915 MHz, and climbing on our test configuration at 1019 MHz GPU Boost.

Of course, for all this power, it was mighty power. That of Tytan CG8890 disappoint in appearance (block gray metal, old), but reassures side characteristics. Phew, because the non-TDP CPU overclocked to 130W is indicated, the graphics card is 300W ... Do not worry, the food here is manufactured by AcBel present, displays of power and 900W 80Plus Gold sticker, this which certifies a very decent performance. With maximum 713W from the socket Meter in accordance with our load test CPU overclocked to 4.2 GHz + GPU, it remains quiet even on the supply side based on a yield of only 80%, there is a little leeway given the level of certification.

By analyzing the assembly of these components, we realize that there is so much opportunity in this case to future changes in configuration. Indeed, the sony vgp-bps9 motherboard having beautiful example be compatible 4-Way SLI, the tower only 7 slots for expansion cards, two of which are already occupied by the GTX 690, while a third slot is reserved sound card Xonar Phoebus. At the front, there is already a bit more space even if the 4 x 5.25'', 3 are already used (Blu-ray HDD Rack 3.5'' extractable and control board side panels). As for 3.5'' bays occupied by racks for easy installation of hard drives, they are present in number 5 with three drives already installed. At the assembly itself, it is relatively clean and well put together, it is not integration systems sometimes seen in the sphere of workstations or Apple Mac Pro, almost without visible cables, compartmentalized, etc..

Power to spare, and a lot of noise ...

However, what we can not remove the Tytan CG8890 is its firepower. Indeed, various tests and benchmarks which we submitted showed that it was indeed extremely powerful machine. With such a configuration, it is better you tell us. Some history scores grandstanding? One can start with a score of 13,859 points in 3DMark 11 (Performance Preset), a total of 5377 points in hp pavilion dv6  7, or 10.92 points in the CPU benchmark of 14,310 points in CineBench and Fritz Benchmark.

More practical tests also confirmed the very good skills to do everything, not just to play. So while it may take more than 3 minutes of fairly standard configurations to complete our reference made in Photoshop CS5, it took only 50 seconds to Tytan. And in Handbrake, encoding a video in High-Profile which usually takes about 4 minutes was held here in just 1 minute and 20 seconds. With over 86 fps average in Unigine Heaven DirectX 11 everything thoroughly, the  Pavilion DV4 confirms its top-flight performance, and you can be sure you will not a priori framerate problems for a long time on fashion games. And all these figures are those obtained at 3.8 GHz! Only disappointment, SSD Raid 0 on which the system relies. A configuration that allows for storage certainly reach impressive sequential speeds (769 MB / s read in Crystal Disk Mark), but that does not help the treatment of random files, and thereby depress IOPS quite drastically. Which, nevertheless, does not prevent the Tytan CG8890 be swift and responsive machine.

Before looking at the price of this machine exception, you must know that this power dissipation is also pay in a currency other than greenbacks: the noise! Indeed, the Tytan CG8890 offers a sophisticated cooling system and that eyeful, but also shows that noisy. While it is true that the beast absorbs and releases a lot of Watts therefore necessarily a lot of calories, it is very successful in maintaining its main components to acceptable HP 484170-001 operating temperature. Thus, at rest and 3.8 GHz, while it pulls 153W on the outlet, the Tytan CG8890 CPU remains at 41 ° C and GPU at 36 ° C in a room at 22 ° C, while already producing still 41.7 dB (in a room at 35.3 dB PC off). At full load, the turbine audible enough watercooling kit proves even more noisy fan and coupled to the GTX 690 which begins to run harder, you climb to 49.8 dB for consumption of 624W. It blows hard, but GPUs are stabilized at 84 ° C maximum, and the CPU at 72 ° C.

Turbo mode at 4.2 GHz, the topography is almost the same, except that the Tytan is even noisier. Inevitably, its doors are open and the back of the hood is raised to take advantage of the additional eight small fans, they run at low speed, it produces no less for all new noise. Remains that the fans are installed inside the housing which are the noisiest. Result, at rest in this config 'overclocking, the computer consumes 228W, CPU is 46 ° C and the meter back a measure of 46.4 dB. Charge, we fly: 713W, 55.3 dB and 75 ° C for the CPU. Unchanged for GPU temperature. The conclusion is clear: the Tytan CG8890 is properly cooled, fully assumes its various stages of overclocking, but it makes noise, lots of noise when fully pressed. Asus ROG is no magic to this level.

Of course, all this comes at a price, very salty in this case since the Asus ROG CG8890 Tytan displays a label of € 5,000. As often during such test configurations, so let out the calculator and references our price comparison-Street Hardware to see if such a bill is justified, and try to evaluate the overhead required by Asus A3000 for very special benefits this machine. € 950 on average for the processor, € 900 for the graphics card, € 350 for the motherboard, € 170 for food, 270 € for the storage part, 70 € for the watercooling kit, € 70 for the Blu -ray, € 160 for the sound card, 130 € for the whole keyboard / mouse, and € 130 for the system ... we arrive at € 3,200.

If we put aside voluntarily dealer margin and the costs associated with marketing and logistics, there is still Asus ROG is paying a high price its case "Transformers", the assembly of the machine and following softwares installed immediately, the system overclocking hot. It would therefore have been possible, even if done in excess, to opt for a 3-Way SLI GTX 680 (GTX 680 TOP three kind DirectCU II Asus € 500 room ...), the motherboard being compatible 4-Way SLI. But the housing offering only seven slots for girls, and sound cards and WiFi in addition, there was a clear need to make a choice.

Tags: Dell XPS M1210, Inspiron 1300 , Latitude E6500 Battery

Assembled with love by Asus for fans of the Republic of Gamers line, the Tytan CG8890 is no doubt a Toshiba PA3534U-1BRS PC exception, whether in terms of configuration effort or aesthetic, with its system overclocking hot well staged. Delirium but the manufacturer is really a perfect product? Is it worth the € 5,000 required? See this in more detail ...

The first face to face with the Asus ROG Tytan of intimidating, and actually quite annoying. Indeed, there are few really heavy boxes to be delivered to us, those that require you to seek the help of a colleague to bring the monster to the lab. Colleague who will not hesitate to ask you how often you use your membership card to the nearby gym ... And muscles must once again put to good use to succeed in the Tytan out of the box and manipulate the photo shoot rigor. Casually, near 2000W lighting was quickly off his sweater.

"I saw a big beast ..."

But despite the efforts, the pleasure of discovery remains present, because there is something impressive during the unpacking. We know the Asus ROG Tytan of, and for good reason, we have tested the model CG8580. Yes, but now it is the Sony VAIO VGN-AR630 , which is equipped with a configuration more balèze with a GeForce GTX 690 and a Core i7-3960X and above which has the famous opening mechanisms motorized walls and cover, hiding many small additional fans to better cool the configuration during periods of extreme stress, in addition of course to add a pinch of geek style 100% to the bike.

This is definitely a machine that does not go unnoticed. Firstly, it is obviously quite impressive size that strikes. Full box weighs approximately 24 Kg, and measures 57 cm high, 36 cm in width and 63 cm deep. These are maximum dimensions identified as the Tytan is far from being a stupid cube. Very angular, sleek design is intended, such as VGP-BPS14 laptops in this range inspired by American stealth fighters, and it fits perfectly with the image that can be overclocked from a configuration-oriented "gamer". The idea of ​​this computer with Asus ROG is clear: to offer lovers of beautiful objects an original configuration and very muscular without requiring them to leave or the screwdriver or the Dremel. And who says PC uncompromising also says need to incorporate components of high-end experience to deliver the highest performance possible, but also justify a high selling price.

A choice of more components "ROG"

As such, the Tytan CG8580 was able to show a bit disappointing, especially for fans of the Asus ROG range. In fact, many did not understand how a computer that has a personable Republic of Gamers logo could for example not be fitted with a ASUS ROG motherboard, motherboard that is yet the market reference Asus , one which is the world leader. Idem, the onboard graphics GeForce GTX 680 was a reference, not a model in the colors of factory overclocked Asus ROG. Brief remarks that the manufacturer has taken into account the time comes to prepare the list of components for Tytan CG8890, as we shall see.

But before plunging his hands into this monster, you must first remove its walls connected by cables to the configuration, via a control card installed to manage the spreading mechanism and automated ventilation. Once the configuration is laid bare, we find the housing base, a gray metal cage much more classic than that suggested the appearance of Tytan. Inside, we see the first presence of a watercooling system for the processor (it would also be interesting for config 'at this price, and given its positioning as other components benefit from this cooling mode ...), installation kit quad-channel RAM (16GB G.Skill DDR3 2133 MHz, as to fully exploit the Core i7-3960X and X79 chipset), mounting a GeForce GTX 690 dual-GPU (this is not ROG, but the GTX 690 is only available in the reference model ...) and the sound card Xonar Phoebus, or the participation of two SanDisk SSD U100 128 Go mounted in RAID 0 for speed storage part, also complemented by a Seagate 2TB Everything plugged into a VGP-BPS13 motherboard high-quality and comprehensive oriented "gaming", the Rampage IV Formula Asus ROG stamped ATX format. The rear panel wants comprehensive (USB 3.0, eSATA, RJ45), with the presence of a PS / 2 port which necessarily interested players (anti-ghosting), or a Clear CMOS button resets the BIOS settings if mishandled.

The side of the processor, in addition to the watercooling system which is mounted above (including the pump operator and a heater installed in the rear topped with a 120mm fan quite noisy at full speed), you can not miss the Turbo Gear overclocking a system of pre-programmed and can not be changed. Indeed, if the Core i7-3960X Intel processor (Sandy Bridge-E with 6 physical cores with HyperThreading) is clocked at 3.3 GHz output box, it is overclocked to 3.8 GHz base in Tytan the CG8890. After first press the button "speed" of the case, it is automatically increased to 4 GHz, while the noisy opening system implements walls from the Tytan in "Transformers." A second press of the button changes the hot processor to 4.2 GHz, the maximum frequency. If the system does not require overclocking to restart his machine is a definite plus, however we regret that the machine's BIOS does not allow the user to define itself the level of overclocking at all levels. Overclocking the VGP-BPS12 Battery  reference does not benefit the other hand, with a GPU clocked at 915 MHz, and climbing on our test configuration at 1019 MHz GPU Boost.

Of course, for all this power, it was mighty power. That of Tytan CG8890 disappoint in appearance (block gray metal, old), but reassures side characteristics. Phew, because the non-TDP CPU overclocked to 130W is indicated, the graphics card is 300W ... Do not worry, the food here is manufactured by AcBel present, displays of power and 900W 80Plus Gold sticker, this which certifies a very decent performance. With maximum 713W from the socket Meter in accordance with our load test CPU overclocked to 4.2 GHz + GPU, it remains quiet even on the supply side based on a yield of only 80%, there is a little leeway given the level of certification.

By analyzing the assembly of these components, we realize that there is so much opportunity in this case to future changes in configuration. Indeed, the sony vgp-bps9 motherboard having beautiful example be compatible 4-Way SLI, the tower only 7 slots for expansion cards, two of which are already occupied by the GTX 690, while a third slot is reserved sound card Xonar Phoebus. At the front, there is already a bit more space even if the 4 x 5.25'', 3 are already used (Blu-ray HDD Rack 3.5'' extractable and control board side panels). As for 3.5'' bays occupied by racks for easy installation of hard drives, they are present in number 5 with three drives already installed. At the assembly itself, it is relatively clean and well put together, it is not integration systems sometimes seen in the sphere of workstations or Apple Mac Pro, almost without visible cables, compartmentalized, etc..

Power to spare, and a lot of noise ...

However, what we can not remove the Tytan CG8890 is its firepower. Indeed, various tests and benchmarks which we submitted showed that it was indeed extremely powerful machine. With such a configuration, it is better you tell us. Some history scores grandstanding? One can start with a score of 13,859 points in 3DMark 11 (Performance Preset), a total of 5377 points in hp pavilion dv6  7, or 10.92 points in the CPU benchmark of 14,310 points in CineBench and Fritz Benchmark.

More practical tests also confirmed the very good skills to do everything, not just to play. So while it may take more than 3 minutes of fairly standard configurations to complete our reference made in Photoshop CS5, it took only 50 seconds to Tytan. And in Handbrake, encoding a video in High-Profile which usually takes about 4 minutes was held here in just 1 minute and 20 seconds. With over 86 fps average in Unigine Heaven DirectX 11 everything thoroughly, the  Pavilion DV4 confirms its top-flight performance, and you can be sure you will not a priori framerate problems for a long time on fashion games. And all these figures are those obtained at 3.8 GHz! Only disappointment, SSD Raid 0 on which the system relies. A configuration that allows for storage certainly reach impressive sequential speeds (769 MB / s read in Crystal Disk Mark), but that does not help the treatment of random files, and thereby depress IOPS quite drastically. Which, nevertheless, does not prevent the Tytan CG8890 be swift and responsive machine.

Before looking at the price of this machine exception, you must know that this power dissipation is also pay in a currency other than greenbacks: the noise! Indeed, the Tytan CG8890 offers a sophisticated cooling system and that eyeful, but also shows that noisy. While it is true that the beast absorbs and releases a lot of Watts therefore necessarily a lot of calories, it is very successful in maintaining its main components to acceptable HP 484170-001 operating temperature. Thus, at rest and 3.8 GHz, while it pulls 153W on the outlet, the Tytan CG8890 CPU remains at 41 ° C and GPU at 36 ° C in a room at 22 ° C, while already producing still 41.7 dB (in a room at 35.3 dB PC off). At full load, the turbine audible enough watercooling kit proves even more noisy fan and coupled to the GTX 690 which begins to run harder, you climb to 49.8 dB for consumption of 624W. It blows hard, but GPUs are stabilized at 84 ° C maximum, and the CPU at 72 ° C.

Turbo mode at 4.2 GHz, the topography is almost the same, except that the Tytan is even noisier. Inevitably, its doors are open and the back of the hood is raised to take advantage of the additional eight small fans, they run at low speed, it produces no less for all new noise. Remains that the fans are installed inside the housing which are the noisiest. Result, at rest in this config 'overclocking, the computer consumes 228W, CPU is 46 ° C and the meter back a measure of 46.4 dB. Charge, we fly: 713W, 55.3 dB and 75 ° C for the CPU. Unchanged for GPU temperature. The conclusion is clear: the Tytan CG8890 is properly cooled, fully assumes its various stages of overclocking, but it makes noise, lots of noise when fully pressed. Asus ROG is no magic to this level.

Of course, all this comes at a price, very salty in this case since the Asus ROG CG8890 Tytan displays a label of € 5,000. As often during such test configurations, so let out the calculator and references our price comparison-Street Hardware to see if such a bill is justified, and try to evaluate the overhead required by Asus A3000 for very special benefits this machine. € 950 on average for the processor, € 900 for the graphics card, € 350 for the motherboard, € 170 for food, 270 € for the storage part, 70 € for the watercooling kit, € 70 for the Blu -ray, € 160 for the sound card, 130 € for the whole keyboard / mouse, and € 130 for the system ... we arrive at € 3,200.

If we put aside voluntarily dealer margin and the costs associated with marketing and logistics, there is still Asus ROG is paying a high price its case "Transformers", the assembly of the machine and following softwares installed immediately, the system overclocking hot. It would therefore have been possible, even if done in excess, to opt for a 3-Way SLI GTX 680 (GTX 680 TOP three kind DirectCU II Asus € 500 room ...), the motherboard being compatible 4-Way SLI. But the housing offering only seven slots for girls, and sound cards and WiFi in addition, there was a clear need to make a choice.

Tags: Dell XPS M1210, Inspiron 1300 , Latitude E6500 Battery

Test: Asus Maximus Formula V

Introduction

It's been almost four months Intel has launched its new platform "mid-range" which replaced the socket LGA 1155 platform based chipsets P67/Z68. In that time, an impressive number of motherboards based on the new chipset Z77 was born, the war between the various manufacturers are well underway. A few months after testing the Maximus Gene V, which proved to be one of the Z77 motherboards fastest, we received the model ATX Asus ROG range, the Maximus Formula V. Tour of ...

ROG, and more ...

Like all motherboards ROG range, the box (barely larger than the motherboard) the "M5F" is composed of two compartments: one containing the  Dell XPS M1530  motherboard itself, and one for all bundle. At the rear of the latter, one can find the innovative features put forward by the manufacturer, such as Thermo Fusion, SupremeFX IV mPCIe Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Combo Dual-band 4.0 and finally GameFirst II. Autand features more or less useful that we will be able to enjoy the benefits.

The Maximus Formula V adopts a black PCB and components red or black, with a sports car look. It incorporates a socket LGA-1155 and operates the Intel Z77 (that you'll understand). This XPS M1330 motherboard standards eATX (extended ATX) and therefore measures 30.5 x 25.7 cm.

Map all angles

We can distinguish the LGA 1155. The older generation processors Sandy Bridge (i5 2400, 2500, 2500K, i7 2600K, 2700K ...) are, as explained above, 100% compatible with this chipset that is the basis for the Ivy Bridge processors. Cooling systems are of course identical to those found for P67 motherboards (LGA 1155) or even P55 (1156). Food processor, integrated graphics processor and memory is completely controlled by the new functionality Extreme Engine Digi + II. Just like its sister the Maximus Gene V, it includes 12 power phases for the CPU and graphics.

The card has four ports DIMM supporting DDR3 dual-channel 2800MHz up (or 3000 MHz speed only works on some processors). These ports are powered by two phases. Asus uses its mounting strips with clips without pin mechanism on one side, as on all its latest motherboards. This Dell Latitude E5500 mounting system facilitates retrieval of memory modules when you have big fingers and it does not use excessive force on the graphics card!

On the Z77 there are also LED display system diagnostics. And like all models ROG. Was entitled to Start and Reset buttons. Practice when the card is installed on a test bench. In addition to the 24-pin power connector, there is a connector that allows us to activate or deactivate the LN2 (liquid nitrogen) using a jumper. This enables better control of the extreme overclocking motherboard and enables additional functions hidden in the Bios. As Ivy Bridge processors like the cold ... this feature is extremely useful when overclocking pushed under liquid nitrogen.

Like other motherboards from Asus, the M5F is also provided with the small button GO ensures better compatibility with different types of DDR3 can be found on the market. Close DIMM slots, you can easily get Latitude E6400 different voltages of the card using a multimeter without having to search the different measurement points of tension around the map. We have the right to these different measuring point 2 land VPLL, vCCSA, vCCIO, vDRAM, in vIGPU finally vCore.

Intel Z77 chipset is cooled by a small black radiator not too high so as not to interfere with different graphics cards. Intel Z77 chipset does not much heating, a larger radiator would not be necessary. Compared to the Extreme version the card has a single removable Bios function but has however USB bios flashback which I invite you to read the tutorial here on the forum Asus ROG France. It allows to update the BIOS of the motherboard without a processor, without memory, etc.. Simply plug the ATX power cable and have a USB drive containing the BIOS on your motherboard. Practice!

Thermo Fusion to "watercooler" its power stage ...

In the picture above we can distinguish one of tips watercooling system used by Asus to cool the power stage of the processor. This watercooling system is called "Thermo Fusion" and according to Asus much more effective than single radiator cooled only by the flow of air in our boxes. For those who do not have watercooling circuit, the cooling system can also be used as a simple radiator, obviously.

Level of expansion slots, Asus has opted for three PCI Express 3.0 16X (16X a map, two maps 8X-8X, three cards 8X-4X-4X), a PCIe 4X, three PCIe 2.0 1X and a PCIe mini port 2.0 1X on the module mPCIe Combo. The card has no PCI slots. Note that the card is compatible with AMD CrossfireX technology, Nvidia SLI and Virtu LucidLogix MVP.

On the rear panel of the card, there is an extensive connection. It therefore has the right to a Clear CMOS button, a button ROG Connect on / off, four USB 2.0 ports (one port can be used ROG Connect port), four USB 3.0 ports, an eSATA port and a gigabit LAN RJ45. We also find the audio outputs 8 channels IV and Supreme FX audio ports S / PDIF In / Out Optical. Outputs on the card is equipped with an HDMI port and a DisplayPort.

On this map, Asus offers us ten SATA ports, two SATA 3.0 Gb / s (black) and six SATA 6.0 Gb / s (red). The last two ports are present on the rear panel of the card, it is an eSATA 3.0 Gb / s and mSATA port 3GB / s on the module mPCIe Combo. Asmedia ASM1042 controller and the Intel Z77 are responsible for managing the six USB 3.0 ports. The Latitude E6500 four ports located on the rear panel and two additional ports can be used by the USB 3.0 connector on the front panel of the case.

The card has a power connector IDE named EZ-PLUG to bring more power to the graphics card in a multi-card configuration. Close controller Supreme FX IV, one can distinguish the system by LED backlight is already on the Maximus IV Formula. When the card is turned on, the left side will illuminate red for a guaranteed effect tuning ...

Tags:  Dell Studio 1555, Dell Studio 1558, Inspiron 1300 Battery

Test: Asus Maximus Formula V

Introduction

It's been almost four months Intel has launched its new platform "mid-range" which replaced the socket LGA 1155 platform based chipsets P67/Z68. In that time, an impressive number of motherboards based on the new chipset Z77 was born, the war between the various manufacturers are well underway. A few months after testing the Maximus Gene V, which proved to be one of the Z77 motherboards fastest, we received the model ATX Asus ROG range, the Maximus Formula V. Tour of ...

ROG, and more ...

Like all motherboards ROG range, the box (barely larger than the motherboard) the "M5F" is composed of two compartments: one containing the  Dell XPS M1530  motherboard itself, and one for all bundle. At the rear of the latter, one can find the innovative features put forward by the manufacturer, such as Thermo Fusion, SupremeFX IV mPCIe Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Combo Dual-band 4.0 and finally GameFirst II. Autand features more or less useful that we will be able to enjoy the benefits.

The Maximus Formula V adopts a black PCB and components red or black, with a sports car look. It incorporates a socket LGA-1155 and operates the Intel Z77 (that you'll understand). This XPS M1330 motherboard standards eATX (extended ATX) and therefore measures 30.5 x 25.7 cm.

Map all angles

We can distinguish the LGA 1155. The older generation processors Sandy Bridge (i5 2400, 2500, 2500K, i7 2600K, 2700K ...) are, as explained above, 100% compatible with this chipset that is the basis for the Ivy Bridge processors. Cooling systems are of course identical to those found for P67 motherboards (LGA 1155) or even P55 (1156). Food processor, integrated graphics processor and memory is completely controlled by the new functionality Extreme Engine Digi + II. Just like its sister the Maximus Gene V, it includes 12 power phases for the CPU and graphics.

The card has four ports DIMM supporting DDR3 dual-channel 2800MHz up (or 3000 MHz speed only works on some processors). These ports are powered by two phases. Asus uses its mounting strips with clips without pin mechanism on one side, as on all its latest motherboards. This Dell Latitude E5500 mounting system facilitates retrieval of memory modules when you have big fingers and it does not use excessive force on the graphics card!

On the Z77 there are also LED display system diagnostics. And like all models ROG. Was entitled to Start and Reset buttons. Practice when the card is installed on a test bench. In addition to the 24-pin power connector, there is a connector that allows us to activate or deactivate the LN2 (liquid nitrogen) using a jumper. This enables better control of the extreme overclocking motherboard and enables additional functions hidden in the Bios. As Ivy Bridge processors like the cold ... this feature is extremely useful when overclocking pushed under liquid nitrogen.

Like other motherboards from Asus, the M5F is also provided with the small button GO ensures better compatibility with different types of DDR3 can be found on the market. Close DIMM slots, you can easily get Latitude E6400 different voltages of the card using a multimeter without having to search the different measurement points of tension around the map. We have the right to these different measuring point 2 land VPLL, vCCSA, vCCIO, vDRAM, in vIGPU finally vCore.

Intel Z77 chipset is cooled by a small black radiator not too high so as not to interfere with different graphics cards. Intel Z77 chipset does not much heating, a larger radiator would not be necessary. Compared to the Extreme version the card has a single removable Bios function but has however USB bios flashback which I invite you to read the tutorial here on the forum Asus ROG France. It allows to update the BIOS of the motherboard without a processor, without memory, etc.. Simply plug the ATX power cable and have a USB drive containing the BIOS on your motherboard. Practice!

Thermo Fusion to "watercooler" its power stage ...

In the picture above we can distinguish one of tips watercooling system used by Asus to cool the power stage of the processor. This watercooling system is called "Thermo Fusion" and according to Asus much more effective than single radiator cooled only by the flow of air in our boxes. For those who do not have watercooling circuit, the cooling system can also be used as a simple radiator, obviously.

Level of expansion slots, Asus has opted for three PCI Express 3.0 16X (16X a map, two maps 8X-8X, three cards 8X-4X-4X), a PCIe 4X, three PCIe 2.0 1X and a PCIe mini port 2.0 1X on the module mPCIe Combo. The card has no PCI slots. Note that the card is compatible with AMD CrossfireX technology, Nvidia SLI and Virtu LucidLogix MVP.

On the rear panel of the card, there is an extensive connection. It therefore has the right to a Clear CMOS button, a button ROG Connect on / off, four USB 2.0 ports (one port can be used ROG Connect port), four USB 3.0 ports, an eSATA port and a gigabit LAN RJ45. We also find the audio outputs 8 channels IV and Supreme FX audio ports S / PDIF In / Out Optical. Outputs on the card is equipped with an HDMI port and a DisplayPort.

On this map, Asus offers us ten SATA ports, two SATA 3.0 Gb / s (black) and six SATA 6.0 Gb / s (red). The last two ports are present on the rear panel of the card, it is an eSATA 3.0 Gb / s and mSATA port 3GB / s on the module mPCIe Combo. Asmedia ASM1042 controller and the Intel Z77 are responsible for managing the six USB 3.0 ports. The Latitude E6500 four ports located on the rear panel and two additional ports can be used by the USB 3.0 connector on the front panel of the case.

The card has a power connector IDE named EZ-PLUG to bring more power to the graphics card in a multi-card configuration. Close controller Supreme FX IV, one can distinguish the system by LED backlight is already on the Maximus IV Formula. When the card is turned on, the left side will illuminate red for a guaranteed effect tuning ...

Tags:  Dell Studio 1555, Dell Studio 1558, Inspiron 1300 Battery