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| by MAC | January 24, 2010 | ||
| Package & Accessories Package & AccessoriesNow that we have taken a quick look at some the X58A-UD7's unique features, it is time to take a look at the packaging and the included accessories. At $360CDN+ this is a high-end motherboard, so we expect to be impressed by the presentation and included goodies. Let's check it out:     Click on image to enlarge Here we have the unmistakably Gigabyte packaging. Although the Ultra Durable 3 logo has dominated all recent Gigabyte motherboard boxes, one of the X58A-UD7's main marketing points is obviously the new 24-phase power design, and this is quite evident on the box. Nevertheless, we are glad that they kept the novelty cutout in the lower right corner, simulating the 2 oz copper inner layer that is the distinguishing feature of the Ultra Durable 3 design. It is hard to tell by the photos, but this is a sizeable package, measuring a full 12.5 inches tall, 14.5 inches wide, and a 5.5 inches thick.    Click on image to enlarge Once you open the packaging you are greeted with an inner box with a handle, which itself contains two seperate section. The top half contains the motherboard which is battle-clad in a protective plastic enclosure, so you definitely don’t have to worry about this motherboard getting damaged while in transit.    Click on image to enlarge The bottom box contains the accessories, the numerous instruction manuals, and the installation CD. Here is a break down of the included items:
      Click on image to enlarge As we have come to expect from Gigabyte, the bundled cables are of a high quality. In particular, we like the fact that two of the cables come with handy 90 degree connectors, and all the connectors have a clip that ensures that they remain securely fastened to your hardware. We do think that it is time for Gigabyte to ditch the yellow though, it's time to adopt blue cables! The eSATA bracket further enhances this motherboard's already impressive connectivity options, and comes with a very handy external molex connection, which could be used to power external radiator fans for a water cooling system or simply a hard drive. Gigabyte have included a 2-way SLI and 3-Way SLI bridge connector, as well a retention bracket to hold the bridges in place.     Click on image to enlarge Last but not least is the Hybrid Silent-Pipe module. This is an additional heatsink unit that attaches to the water-block northbridge cooler in order to maximize air cooling. You obviously aren't obligated to install it though, since the stock cooling system is more capable of dissipating the X58's heat output with a little secondary airflow. | ||
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