Page 44 - Computer Power User - February 2017

support for multiple GPUs in a variety
of configurations, a crazy amount of
high-speed I/O devices, and a top-rate
LED lighting system that lets you decide
whether to keep things low-key or go
full-on Pink Floyd Laser Light Show. In
GIGABYTE’s own words, “we set out
to create a premium board that gave
our customers the ability to adapt and
customize every aspect of its operation.
From RGB Fusion software, to Smart Fan
5, headers galore, and a robust I/O, we
feel that anyone looking to build a system
that is uniquely their own will want
to give the AORUS Gaming 9 serious
consideration.” We couldn’t agree more. LED lighting on the AORUS Gaming 9 is only as bright and colorful as you want it to be.

Advanced Tech Comes Standard
This motherboard is built to support
6th and 7th Generation LGA 1151 Intel with Isense technology. This portion overclocking results, and cooler running
Core Processors, better known as Skylake of the motherboard is responsible for temperatures.
and Kaby Lake. When you opt for an precise current sensing and thermal load
enthusiast motherboard, the complexity regulation and distribution. According Cool Under The Collar
and capabilities of the VRM usually get to GIGABYTE, “Clean efficient power When your processor is under load,
a significant upgrade, and the AORUS delivery is important in any high-end the VRM will heat up, which is why
GA-Z270X-Gaming 9 is no exception. system. Voltage is dynamic, spikes GIGABYTE enlisted the expertise of
The VRM hugging the top and left or drops can cause serious problems at one of the world’s foremost experts in
side of this motherboard’s CPU socket worst or puzzling and/or annoying issues liquid cooling, EKWB, to help design
consists of an incredibly deep 22-phase at best.” But beyond preventing power a solution that can dissipate that heat
power delivery system, comprising 4th delivery issues, such a hearty VRM helps in the most efficient way possible. The
generation IR digital power controllers contribute to a longer motherboard result is the G-Frost Hybrid waterblock,
and 3rd generation PowIRstage ICs, lifespan, consistent reliability, more stable which is built on top of a C-shaped block
of aluminum straddling the processor
socket. If you choose to forego liquid
cooling, the low-density lightweight
heatsink base with a copper core will
adequately keep your VRM well within
safe operating temperatures. But that
copper core is actually a precision-
milled liquid channel topped with a
smoked black translucent acrylic cover
and sealed with a custom-fitted O-ring.
The G-Frost Hybrid features a pair of
G1/4-inch threaded fittings, making it
easy to incorporate the unique heatsink/
waterblock into your custom loop. If
you do opt to go that route, you’ll get
significantly better cooling performance
and in turn decrease the chances that even
a stout overclock will result in scenarios
where thermal throttling occurs. Keeping
Yes, this motherboard comes with a waterblock. Yes, the water block helps lower your system temps
this portion of your board cool can also
even if you opt to go the air-cooling route.
ensure your processor lives a long full

44 February2017 / www.computerpoweruser.com