Intel DP55KG Extreme Series Desktop Motherboard (P55 ATX Core i7 Core i5 LGA1156)
Compatible with Intel's Core i7-800 and i5-700 series processors, the Extreme Series Desktop Board DP55KG is an ideal motherboard for enthusiasts looking to build a cutting-edge PC without breaking the bank. Based on the P55 chipset, the DP55KG supports all processors with LGA1156 sockets, and fully supports ATI CrossFire and NVIDIA SLI technology. The DP55KG is an ATX form factor board and measures 12 by 9.6 inches. It is packed with enough PCI connectors, DDR3 memory sockets, and peripheral ports to satisfy the most demanding users.Desktop Board DP55KGForm Factor: ATXCompatible Processors: Core i7-870, Core i7-860, Core i5-750Memory: Four 240-pin DDR3 SDRAM DIMM sockets (support for DDR3 1600/1333/1066 MHz DIMMs)The DP55KG supports processors with LGA1156 sockets.View detailed schematic.Unleash the power of Intel Core i7-800 and Core i5-700 series processors with the DP55KG.View larger.Unleash the Power of Intel Core i7 and Core i5 Series ProcessorsWith the Intel Core i7-800 and i5-700 processors, Intel engineers introduced a revolutionary new style of micro-architecture. They removed the front side bus -- a longtime staple of processor design -- and replaced it with a new interconnect technology known as Direct Media Interface (DMI). As a result of these changes, only motherboards with the new LGA1156 socket can support Core i7 processors.The DP55KG features the LGA1156 socket and is specifically designed to make the most of the Intel Core i7 processor's power. It incorporates special over-clocking hardware, which allows users to push their computer's performance to its limit. However, please note that the LGA1156 socket is only compatible with Core i7-800 and Core i5-700 series processors. Those with the Core i7-900 series processors should instead purchase a motherboard that features the LGA1366 socket (such as theIntel DX58SO).Optimize Performance with Intel Desktop Control CenterThe Intel Desktop Control Center makes it easy for you to do more with your desktop board than ever before. With just one click of a button, this tool automatically tunes the processor, memory, and bus speed for maximum stability and performance. The Desktop Control Center also lets you monitor your system temperature while giving you control over voltages and fan speeds.Multi-GPU Support for Ultimate Graphical PerformanceThe DP55KG fully supports NVIDIA SLI and ATI CrossFire technologies, which allow users to utilize two graphics cards and increase the GPU output. This added graphical power eliminates frame-rate hiccups and slowdowns, delivering the smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience users have always wanted.Loaded with Memory, PCI, and Peripheral SupportWith dozens of ports and connectors, the DP55KG gives computer enthusiasts the flexibility they need to build their dream machine. It offers support for 1600 MHz, 1333 MHz, and 1066 MHz variants of DDR3 memory. With four DDR3 SDRAM DIMM sockets, the DP55KG can accommodate up to 16 GB of system memory -- an invaluable resource for heavy multitaskers.The DP55KG also features enough ports to interface with all of your computer accessories and gadgetry. It has 13 USB 2.0 ports (8 external ports, 1 onboard, 2 internal headers), and eight serial ATA 3.0 Gbit/s ports including two eSATA ports with RAID support. With two IEEE-1394a ports, the DP55KG is equipped to handle all of your audio/video transfer needs. A Consumer IR receiver and emitter are also included, along with a Bluetooth module for all your wireless needs.For more advanced computer expansion, the DP55KG also features seven PCI connectors, including two PCIe 2.0 x16 bus add-in card connectors for graphics cards, two PCI conventional connectors, two PCIe 2.0 x1 connectors, and one PCIe 2.0 x4 connector.Integrated High-Definition Audio and High-Speed EthernetWhether  playing MP3s or immersing yourself in game sound effects (SFX), you can expect crisp sound from the DP55KG. It features a 10-Channel Dolby 7.1 audio subsystem, which means you won't have to spend extra money on a dedicated sound card for top-quality audio playback. The motherboard also includes five analog audio outputs and two S/PDIF digital audio outputs (coaxial and optical) with Realtek ALC889, so you can  use your favorite speakers.A Gigabit (10/100/1000 Mbps) Ethernet connection is also included for high-speed connections to the Internet.The Intel Desktop Control Center easily lets you optimize your system for maximum performance.