MSI Introduces PROJECT ZERO Series: Enhancing PC Aesthetics and User Experience

MSI has just launched their latest innovation in the world of computer assembly with the introduction of the PROJECT ZERO series. This new line of motherboards aims to tackle the complex and troublesome task of cable management, bringing joy to gamers everywhere.

The standout feature of the PROJECT ZERO motherboards is the relocation of most cable connectors to the back of the motherboard. This clever design choice allows cables to be hidden behind the motherboard, resulting in a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing front. But it’s not just about looks – this design also greatly reduces the difficulty of cable management, making the entire assembly process a breeze.

To complement this design philosophy, MSI has also introduced PROJECT ZERO compatible chassis that emphasize simplicity and elegance when used in conjunction with the motherboards. These chassis are designed to enhance the overall look and feel of the assembled computer, creating a cohesive and visually stunning system.

The motherboards themselves feature a sleek silver-white design with an extensive heatsink, exuding a clean and modern appearance. There are several chipset options available in the PROJECT ZERO series, catering to different needs and preferences. The Z790 PROJECT ZERO is an ATX motherboard with a 14+1 Duet Rail Power System, Lightning Gen 5 PCIe slot, 4x M.2 slots, and Wi-Fi 7. The B760M PROJECT ZERO is a Micro-ATX motherboard with a 12+1 Duet Rail Power System, Lightning Gen 5 PCIe slot, 2x M.2 slots, and Wi-Fi 6E. And finally, the B650M PROJECT ZERO features a 10+2 direct out power system, Lightning Gen 4 PCIe slot, 2x M.2 slots, and Wi-Fi 6E.

One of the key innovations of the PROJECT ZERO series is the Back-connect design. Unlike traditional motherboards that have all connectors in the front, this design relocates most connectors to the back. This not only simplifies cable management and connections but also achieves a balance between ease of use and aesthetics by retaining accessible installation points for the CPU, DRAM, and SSD in the front. MSI is not the only brand embracing this Back-Connect design, as it represents a collaborative direction with multiple chassis brands to pursue together.

It’s worth noting that Back-Connect motherboards require a specific Back-Connect compatible chassis. To address this, MSI has launched the MAG PANO M100 PZ series chassis, which supports Micro-ATX motherboards and comes in black and white options. This chassis features a 270-degree tempered glass design and Reverse-blade fans, allowing users to view the clean interior from multiple angles. It also provides ample space for cable management, making it easy for users to build their own unique PCs.

For those looking for even more compatibility options, MSI has also launched the MEG MAESTRO 700L PZ chassis. This chassis is compatible with both the MSI ATX Back-connect motherboard and general EATX motherboards. With its one-piece curved tempered glass and aluminum unibody, this PC case truly stands out as a work of art. The dual chamber design not only benefits thermal management but also provides extra space for cable management. It’s worth noting that the MEG MAESTRO 700L PZ is a limited edition product and will be available soon.

In conclusion, MSI’s PROJECT ZERO series brings a breath of fresh air to the world of computer assembly. With its innovative Back-connect design and compatible chassis options, gamers can now enjoy a simpler and more enjoyable experience when building their dream PCs. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time builder, these products offer a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics.

Background Information

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About MSI: MSI (Micro-Star International) is a globally recognized company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of a wide range of computer products. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1986, MSI has emerged as a key player in the technology industry, consistently delivering innovative solutions that cater to the needs of both casual users and hardcore enthusiasts. The company's product portfolio encompasses a diverse array of products, including motherboards, graphics cards, laptops, desktops, monitors, and various gaming peripherals. MSI's commitment to quality and performance is evident in its dedication to technologies, sleek designs, and rigorous testing standards. for its gaming-focused products under the MSI Gaming brand, the company has earned a reputation for delivering high-performance components that enhance the gaming experience.

  

Technology Explained

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CPU: The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of a computer, responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations. It is the most important component of a computer system, as it is responsible for controlling all other components. CPUs are used in a wide range of applications, from desktop computers to mobile devices, gaming consoles, and even supercomputers. CPUs are used to process data, execute instructions, and control the flow of information within a computer system. They are also used to control the input and output of data, as well as to store and retrieve data from memory. CPUs are essential for the functioning of any computer system, and their applications in the computer industry are vast.

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M.2: M.2, also known as Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a computer expansion card format that is designed to replace the outdated mSATA standard. It is thinner and longer than mSATA, which gives it a much higher data transfer rate. The M.2 format measures 22mm in width and can measure up to 110mm in length. It uses the M-key and B-key connectors to interface with PC host systems, and can connect to both SATA III and PCIe for data transfer. Due to its small size, M.2 is often used for ultra-slim laptops and netbooks, as well as in embedded SSDs for tablets and other mobile devices. It is also becoming increasingly popular in the desktop computer industry, thanks to its compactness and fast transfer speeds. This makes M.2 ideal for gaming PCs, workstations, and other demanding applications that require high levels of data throughput.

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Micro-ATX: Micro-ATX is a form factor of motherboards used in computers. It is a smaller version of the ATX form factor, and is designed to provide a smaller footprint for computer systems. Micro-ATX motherboards are typically used in small form factor computers, such as those used in home theater PCs, small office/home office computers, and other space-constrained applications. They are also used in some gaming PCs, as they offer a good balance between size and performance. Micro-ATX motherboards are typically more affordable than their larger ATX counterparts, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, they are compatible with most standard ATX components, making them a great choice for those looking to upgrade their existing system.

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PCIe: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard for connecting components such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards to a motherboard. It is the most widely used interface in the computer industry today, and is used in both desktop and laptop computers. PCIe is capable of providing up to 16 times the bandwidth of the older PCI standard, allowing for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance. It is also used in a variety of other applications, such as storage, networking, and communications. PCIe is an essential component of modern computing, and its applications are only expected to grow in the future.

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SSD: A Solid State Drive (SSD) is a modern data storage device that employs flash memory technology to store data electronically. Unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), SSDs have no moving parts, resulting in significantly faster read and write speeds. This leads to quicker boot times, faster application loading, and smoother overall system performance. SSDs are known for their durability, shock resistance, and energy efficiency, making them ideal for laptops, ultrabooks, and other portable devices. They come in various form factors, including 2.5-inch, M.2, and PCIe cards, and are favored for their reliability, quiet operation, and reduced heat generation

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Wi-Fi 6E: WiFi 6E is the latest iteration of the WiFi standard, offering faster speeds and improved performance. It is designed to take advantage of the newly available 6GHz frequency band, which is much less congested than the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. This means that WiFi 6E can provide faster speeds and more reliable connections, even in crowded areas. It is also more secure, as it uses the latest encryption standards. In the computer industry, WiFi 6E can be used to provide faster and more reliable connections for laptops, tablets, and other devices. It can also be used to provide better coverage in large buildings, such as offices and universities. Additionally, it can be used to provide better connections for streaming services, such as Netflix and Hulu, as well as for gaming.

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Z790: The Z790 chipset is a motherboard platform from Intel that supports the 12th Gen Core, 13th Gen Core CPUs and 14th Gen Core CPUs. It offers more PCIe Gen 4 lanes and USB 3.2x2 ports than the previous Z690 chipset, which can enable faster storage and connectivity options.