ASUS Sabertooth Z77 Motherboard

Posted By Rafael Coelho on Oct 25, 2012 in Motherboard

Introduction

The ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77 is a top mid-range socket LGA1155 motherboard targeted to the third-generation Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 processors, codenamed “Ivy bridge,” and also supporting the second-generation Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 processors (“Sandy Bridge”). Let’s see what the ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77 has to offer.

The Intel Z77 is an upgraded version of the Z68 chipset with the same basic features (Intel Smart Response Technology and Virtu video switching technology), plus native support to four USB 3.0 ports. It also has two new technologies: Smart Connect (allowing the computer to receive emails and refresh webpages while it is in sleep mode) and Rapid Start (faster boot times).

In addition, the ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77 supports the Virtu Universal MVP, which allows you to combine the performance of the integrated graphics processor available in the CPU with the performance of any video card installed. This is similar to what occurs with the Hybrid SLI and ATI Hybrid Graphics technologies, with the notable difference of not being limited to GPUs from a specific manufacturer.

ASUS has launched 12 different motherboard models based on the Intel Z77 chipset. In the tables below, we compare their main specifications.

A unique feature of the SABERTOOTH Z77 is the “Thermal Armor,” a plastic shield that covers most of the motherboard area, guiding the airflow provided by two fans and protecting the components at the same time. There are also plastic covers for the expansion and memory slots to protect them from dust. Figure 1 shows you the ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77 motherboard with the plastic protection.

Figure 1: ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77

Figure 2 shows the SABERTOOTH Z77 with its plastic cover removed.

Figure 2: Cover removed

• Contents
• 1. Introduction
• 2. Slots
• 3. Memory Support
• 4. On-Board Peripherals
• 5. Voltage Regulator
• 6. Overclocking Options
• 7. Main Specifications
• 8. Conclusions