Key Features of Z97 Motherboards:
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Processor Support:Z97 chipsets are compatible with a range of Intel LGA1150 socket processors, including 4th, New 4th, and 5th generation Core i7, i5, i3, Pentium, and Celeron processors.
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Chipset:The Z97 chipset itself offers features like improved bandwidth and stability through serial point-to-point links, and supports features like Intel Quick Sync Video and Turbo Boost.
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Memory:Z97 motherboards typically feature four DIMM slots, supporting up to 32GB of dual-channel DDR3 memory (8GB per module).
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Expansion Slots:Expect multiple PCIe slots (e.g., PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16, PCIe 2.0 x1, PCI slots) for graphics cards, expansion cards, and other peripherals.
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Storage:Z97 boards offer SATA III 6 Gb/s connectors and SATA Express connectors for high-speed storage, along with support for RAID configurations.
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Other Features:Many Z97 motherboards also include features like M.2 slots for SSDs, improved audio solutions (e.g., Crystal Sound 2), and Gigabit Ethernet with internet accelerators.
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Overclocking:Some Z97 motherboards, like the Z97-AR, offer features like 5-Way Optimization and DIGI+ Power Control to aid in overclocking and system stability, according to ASUS.
