Key Features and Technologies:
- Chipset: The Intel Z77 chipset is a single-chip solution designed to support Intel 2nd and 3rd generation Core processors (LGA 1155 socket).
- CPU Support: Compatible with both 2nd and 3rd generation Intel Core i7/i5/i3/Pentium/Celeron processors.
- Memory: Utilizes DDR3 memory with dual-channel architecture.
- Expansion Slots: Typically includes PCIe 3.0 slots for graphics cards, along with other PCIe and PCI slots for expansion cards.
- Storage: Supports SATA 6Gb/s ports for faster storage devices.
- USB: Features USB 3.0 ports for faster data transfer speeds.
- Multi-GPU Support: Some Z77 motherboards support multi-GPU configurations like CrossFireX and SLI.
- Advanced Features:
- Intel Smart Response Technology: Allows using an SSD as a cache for faster system performance.
- Dual UEFI BIOS: Some motherboards (e.g., Gigabyte’s 3D BIOS) feature dual BIOS for redundancy and ease of use.
- Lucid Virtu MVP: GPU virtualization technology for enhanced graphics performance.
- DIGI+ Power Control: Digital power control for CPU and DRAM.
- Thermal Armor and Thermal Radar: Advanced cooling solutions for improved thermal management (ASUS Sabertooth Z77).
- Onboard mSATA: Some boards include an mSATA slot for SSDs.
- USB 3.0 Boost: Faster USB 3.0 transfer speeds (ASUS Sabertooth Z77).
- Intel Smart Response Technology: Allows using an SSD as a cache for faster system performance.
