NVIDIA nForce 590 SLI for AMD Round Up: GIGABYTE, MSI and ASUS
Specifications and Retail Package - GIGABYTE GA-M59SLI-S5
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Processor
Socket AM2 for AMD Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 X2 Dual-Core / Athlon 64 / Sempron processor
Chipset
Memory
Internal I/O Connectors
Form Factor |
Expansion Slots
Rear Panel I/O
System voltage detection
BIOS
Other Features |
The GIGABYTE GA-M59SLI-S5 has a impressive retail package that comes equipped with some common, and not so common items. The package comes with a relatively clear and detailed user's manual and a comprehensive drivers CD. When inserted, a browser-based auto configuration screen loads that scans what hardware exists and provides easy access to the necessary drivers. For storage solutions, GIGABYTE includes four SATA cables and one Molex to SATA adapter. There was also a single floppy and 80-Pin IDE ribbon cable included as well as a SATA extension cable to be used with GIGABYTES eSATA package, which we'll touch on in a moment. An SLI bridge PCB was included as well as a retention bracket that fits in an empty slot in the case to ensure the SLI bridge is seated securely. Rounding out the bundle is a GIGABYTE case badge and I/O shield for a perfect fit in any case.
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One item that stands out is the eSATA adapter package. This bracket sports two SATA ports and one Molex power connector that gets routed to the rear of the PC. This is an extremely convenient feature making it very easy to connect an eSATA drive externally by supplying both data and power connections. Power to the external drive is adapted using the male Molex to SATA adapter. About the only thing that would make this feature even more convenient would be to offer the flexibility of mounting the bracket either at the rear of the case or in an available 3.5" drive bay at the front of a case. Either way, this was a useful, and clearly thought-out extra that should prove to be quite functional for some users.
