Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P P45 Motherboard Review

Ultra Durable 3 Examined

One of the cornerstones of the EP45-UD3P motherboard is obviously the Ultra Durable 3 technology that was unveiled in Taipei on September 24th, one day ahead of the GIGABYTE Open Overclocking Championship.

Continuing the advancements brought forth by its predecessors, Ultra Durable 3 features lower ESR solid capacitors, lower RDS(on) MOSFETs, and ferrite core chokes. However, in this latest version the quality and longevity of the solid capacitors has been further improved, allowing up to 50,000 hours or approximately 6 years of continuous use. Secondly, in what is claimed to be an industry first for a consumer motherboard design, the Ultra Durable 3 introduces a 2 ounce copper PCB for both the Power and Ground layers. The benefits of this new motherboard design are claimed to be substantially lower system temperatures, superior energy efficiency, and improved overclocking.


Now despite our best attempt at macro mode, attempting to spot the 2 oz copper PCB layers is an exercise in futility. Thankfully, we actually have photographs taken during the official briefing that demonstrate what the copper PCB layers looks like.

Thanks to Dinos22 for the pics!

While it certainly looks cool, what's more important is how it works, and we will attempt to determine whether this new feature has tangible benefits for your average user and overclocker.