One of the key ways ASUS and ROG have boosted overclocking performance for CPU and memory on its X99 motherboards, is by enhancing the CPU socket! X99 motherboards use the LGA2011-3 socket (with 2011 pins), however with its patent-pending OC Socket, ASUS and ROG have added even more pins to provide more performance!

For reference, here's the comparison of last-gen X79 to this-gen X99 features:

What is OC Socket?

Haswell-E (Intel Core i7-5960X, 5930X and 5280K) processors actually have more pads than the reference LGA2011-3 socket design, so ASUS added extra socket pins to tap this resource. OC Socket is an enhancement based on the reference LGA2011-3 design, so for users not overclocking or tweaking voltages in the BIOS, OC Socket does not activate. However for those that do overclock and tune performance, there's significant benefits.

Here is the reverse side of the socket (which affixes to the motherboard PCB), which clearly shows the difference between the two sockets in the six highlighted areas:

A Haswell-E CPU has more pads than the reference LGA2011-3 connects to, so if you look closer at the CPU pads, the OC Socket matches up almost exactly.

There's more changes under the hood...

OC Socket is just one part of a wider system though. To actually make use of the extra pins and maximize its potential, the OC Socket needs to work together with PCB design innovations, a bespoke VRM power design (Extreme Engine DIGI+ IV) and UEFI BIOS enhancements (which in turn have to co-work with other custom designed hardware like ROG's overclocking IC's across the motherboard). It's not just a simple swap-in!

This diagram gives an idea of the motherboard area OC Socket directly benefits and works with (not including PCI-Express/X99 IO), however please note it is not an actual representation of underlying trace layout. Key: Green = DIGI+ VRM controllers, Blue = CPU VRM system (Extreme Engine DIGI+ IV here), Yellow = DDR4 memory interface.

As with all its customization, the OC Socket, (PCB design, VRM design, UEFI etc) is validated by ASUS to the highest degree of stability and reliability. Backed by years of experience between ROG and ASUS engineers, it's already dominating the overclocking scene from day 1. The OC Socket generates better signal quality and handles any additional voltage/grounding more efficiently.

Even in the most extreme scenarios, there is virtually no voltage drop (termed 'vDrop') on a fully loaded CPU. More stable voltage = higher attainable stable overclock!

Combined with ROG's extensive UEFI BIOS development, it allows things like fine tuning of each individual CPU core:

For DDR4 performance, higher frequencies are attainable at lower voltages: maximizing your (expensive) DDR4 purchase. The lower voltage has two benefits: firstly it allows more stable high frequency memory, even when fully loaded with 8 DIMMs. This is because there is less signal crosstalk and copper trace capacitance, so less chance of memory data error. Secondly, it helps prevent damage and prolongs the life of memory DIMMs.

Is OC Socket compatible with LGA2011-3 CPUs?

Yes! ASUS assures OC Socket is 100% compatible with all Intel LGA2011-3 processors. ASUS' extensive validation process tests every motherboard innovation, including OC Socket, to assure compatibility, reliability and optimum performance.

Can I turn it off if I don't overclock?

OC Socket is an enhancement based on the reference LGA2011-3 design, so for users not overclocking or tweaking voltages in the BIOS, OC Socket does not activate.

Which X99 models feature OC Socket?

• ROG Rampage V Extreme
• ASUS X99-Deluxe
• ASUS X99-Pro
• ASUS X99-A

Extreme Engine DIGI+ IV

More Power Phases Doesn't Make For a Better VRM - Design is Everything!

It is important to keep in mind that a single component is just one stage within a complex system. Every Extreme Engine iteration is a power solution that combines hardware and software, together as a whole. This generation there have been changes throughout in response to the way Haswell-E LGA2011-3 processors with FIVR (fully integrated voltage regulation) work. ROG uses a high-performance 8+2+2 phase design (CPU and both memory banks) because at a certain point adding more phases offer limited benefit in respect to the FIVR, which requires a different approach to power provision on the motherboard side.

The 4th generation Extreme Engine comprises of ASUS' custom DIGI+ power controller, PowIRstage MOSFETS and MicroFine Alloy Chokes. The PowIRstage combines driver and MOSFETs into a single component, reducing size, improving efficiency and reducing operating temperature. Combined with the MicroFine chokes and 10K Black Metallic caps, each phase pumps up to 60 Amps each.

ROG approaches and invests in every generation of products with a bespoke power design, as it's the only way to guarantee the best results.

RDS On Sense

The PowIRstage MOSFETs allow for even further fine-grained current sensing thanks to its internal Current Sense Amplifier. This gives a 13% improvement in tolerance versus competitive designs, and overall reduction in component number and motherboard space used.

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MicroFine Alloy Chokes

The MicroFine Alloy used in the Extreme Engine choke is detailed below. The small, uniform granules pack more densely into the given space and with a greater permeability they store more potential energy (through the electrical-magnetized-electrical mechanism). The end result is a choke design that's best suited for this environment, by a large margin. 

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DirectCU VRM Heatsink

Just like the DirectCU on ASUS graphics card's, the Rampage V Extreme has a copper heatpipe that connects directly to the heat source, which in this case is the MOSFETs of its Extreme Engine DIGI+ IV. The nickel plating is removed and the copper heatpipe is flattened to affix with maximum surface area. The large aluminum rear IO cover provides a huge thermal mass for the heat to travel into (as thermodynamics causes temperature to attempt to equalize over the entire heatsink), providing great performance with the addition of obvious great looks (just like the Rampage IV Black Edition).

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X-Socket II

Both the LGA2011 (X79) and LGA2011-3 (X99) have socket holes with metal screw-threads pre-fitted, into which air or LCLC coolers can screw directly. The X-Socket II is specifically designed for ASUS’ exclusive X99 OC Socket, replacing the default backplate with one that removes the pre-fitted screw-threads, leaving the holes free so heatsinks, LN2/dry ice pots can bolt on the motherboard directly.  

OC Zone

There are a couple of new buttons in the OC Zone: Safe Boot and ReTry.

Safe Boot

When the OC settings are pushed too far and the system doesn’t boot (and the BIOS settings haven’t been saved to an OC Profile to easily recall them), the Safe Boot button resets the system, enabling it to boot at stock settings. Then, when you go into the BIOS it re-applies the last known settings for you to simply adjust and try again without having to remember every detail. 

It’s great for quickly finding the upper limits of where a system will POST, without having to key in every setting again, every time it fails.

ReTry

Sometimes a ‘hard’ shutdown is required to force the system to boot normally. Holding down the power button and/or turning off the PSU at its rear switch takes a long time, so the ReTry button easily and quickly forces a 'hard reset', allowing the system to POST normally.

M.2 - 32Gbit/s PCIE Gen3 x4

The M.2 slot is cunningly placed along the right-hand side of the board, with a max bandwidth of up to 32Gbit/s thanks to the PCIE Gen3 x4 link, with extra long '22110' (110mm) devices supported as well. For those who want to use multiple M.2 devices, the ASUS Hyper M.2 X4 PCIE add-in card will drop into any PCIE x4 or longer slot.  

SATA Express - Two 10Gbit/s ports

The Rampage V Extreme features two 10Gbps SATA Express ports in addition to the SATA 6Gbps ports. The two SATA-E ports are backward compatible to provide an extra four SATA III ports, and are a combination powered by Intel X99 and ASMedia ASM106SE. Given our extensive SATA-E experience and the fact we have worked closely with both ASMedia and Intel, we have tuned the performance to be equal across them both, so you will always get the best SATA-E results.  

SupremeFX 2014 Sound

This generation we've equipped the Extreme with SupremeFX 2014 – the same high quality audio featured in the Maximus VII Ranger, Hero and Gene motherboards. This has all the hardware advantages of EMI shielding and redline PCB isolation, ELNA capacitors, headphone AMPing and the full 2014 Sonic software suite as well.  

WiFi - AC 1300 3T3R

Bundled into the rear IO is the fastest onboard WiFi to date. With 3x3 antennas (3T3R) the wireless reception potential is greater and performance is up to 1300Mbit/s with a compatible 802.11ac router (RT-AC66, RT-AC68, RT-AC87 or RT-AC3200 for example).  

The best Gigabit Ethernet: Intel i218v + ROG GameFirst III + ROG LANGuard

Just like the Maximus VII series motherboards, the Rampage V Extreme gets the full complement of Gigabit Ethernet hardware, with the latest Intel i218v chipset, LANGuard socket and GameFirst III software that prioritizes game or app data, at your command. See our previous tests that articulate the proven benefit of Intel Gigabit Ethernet and LANGuard.

The ASUS Rampage V Extreme had a hell of a weekend, with 28 world records on the first day! We want to a give huge shout-out to people who already had time overclocking it! Obviously we think the ASUS Rampage V Extreme is one hell of a motherboard, but what do reviewers say? Here’s the first batch of reviews to hit the net! 

ASUS Rampage V Extreme Review @ Overclockers3D

“… it’s refreshing to see one reserving a particular model for only the very biggest changes. It must have been tempting to dust off the Rampage brand for the Z97s, but ASUS held off and so, after three years, we finally get a new flagship in the form of the Rampage V Extreme, and boy was it worth the wait.”

Link: Overclockers3D

“The King is dead, long live the King, and he gets crowned with our OC3D Gold Award.”

ASUS Rampage V Extreme Review @ Guru3D

“The Rampage Extreme series is a classic line from ASUS, much like the X79 version we must admit this X99 SKU is downright terrific.”

Link: Guru3D 

“Highly recommended and we’ll grant it our most hard to get Top Pick award.”

[Video] ASUS OC Socket (X99-Deluxe & Rampage V Extreme) @ RushKit

Watch the review here.      

[Video] Rampage V Extreme overview @ RushKit

Watch the overview here.     

[Video] Asus ROG Rampage V Extreme X99 Review 5960X DDR4 3000MHz @ OC3D TV

Watch the review here.      

[Video] ASUS Rampage V Extreme – X99 ROG Motherboard Overview With JJ @ Tek Syndicate

Watch the overview here.

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ Bit-Tech

“Asus’ Rampage has been one of the ultimate premium motherboards for four generations now and the fifth looks set to continue that trend. The Rampage V Extreme is an absolute monster with pretty much every feature you could possibly want except for built-in waterblocks like its cheaper LGA1150 sibling the Maximus VII Formula.”

Link: Bit-Tech     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ tbreak

“ASUS Republic of Gamers has announced its X99 based Rampage V Extreme motherboards, exclusively designed for overclocking the Haswell-E processors and DDR4 RAM modules to their limits.”

Link: tbreak     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ Hexus

“ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced Rampage V Extreme, an Intel® X99 chipset-based gaming/overclocking motherboard engineered to take the latest LGA 2011-v3-socket Intel CoreTM i7 (‘Haswell-E’) processors and DDR4 memory  to their limits.”

Link: Hexus     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ TechPowerUp

“Every company has a flagship product or service. ASUS, which started out as a motherboard brand, has its newest, the ROG Rampage V Extreme. Based on the Intel X99 Express chipset, the board drives Core i7-5000 “Haswell-E” HEDT processors. It begins with a high-current 8-phase CPU VRM that draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS, and 4-pin ATX connectors. The CPU socket is wired to eight DDR4 DIMM slots, and five PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots (one of which features a lane bypass). “

Link: TechPowerUp     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ OCcaholic

“Based on the same Intel X99 Express chipset and featuring support for Intel’s Core i7-5000 series Haswell-E HEDT processors, the Rampage V Extreme will be a part of ASUS’ well known Republic of Gamers brand, which means that it will feature some gamer-oriented features.”

Link: OCAHOLIC     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ PC Perspective

“ASUS today announced the X99-Deluxe, X99-Pro and X99-A, three new ATX motherboards based on the new Intel X99 chipset. Packed with exclusive technologies, including OC Socket and 5-Way Optimization, ASUS’ X99 motherboards ensure ultimate performance from the latest LGA 2011-v3 Intel Core i7 processors.”

Link: PC Perspective     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ Anandtech

“Also on the cards for launch day is the highly anticipated ASUS ROG Rampage V Extreme motherboard. Users who follow the industry will know that Z97 never received a Maximus VII Extreme model, and the Rampage V Extreme is the reason why: because ASUS sees the Extreme line as the top of the top, when a major socket release comes around it requires extra time and effort to ensure day one satisfaction.”

Link: ANANDTECH     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ TweakTown

“ASUS is featuring only three models on launch, and only two are available at this time. They are very high-end motherboards, which are feature packed. Surprisingly, the ROG flagship, the Rampage V Extreme, is front and center, and like always, takes center stage. ASUS has packed all three models to the brim with connectivity and exclusive features.”

Link: TweakTown     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ Tom’s Hardware

“Asus has four X99 motherboards to announce, and for now just three will be available immediately. All four motherboards feature the LGA2011-3 socket, and all of them have support for the new Haswell-E processors. The three productivity-oriented boards are the X99-Deluxe, the X99-Pro, and the X99-A, while the gaming- and overclocking-oriented board is the ROG Rampage V Extreme. No other boards were revealed at this time, although there will surely be more on the way.”

Link: tom’s HARDWARE     

ASUS Rampage V Extreme (Preview) @ HardOCP

“The Rampage V Extreme supports quad-channel DDR4 memory and is equipped with exclusive technologies to aid overclockers that include the patent-pending OC Socket, OC Panel, Safe Boot and ReTry buttons. Thanks to its specialized design and features, the ROG team has already broken 28 performance records with the Rampage V Extreme.”

Link: Hard OCP

Related articles:

1. ASUS, TUF And ROG Z97 Review Roundup, Part 2!
2. G750JZ Review Roundup
3. ASUS Z97 Motherboard Review And News Roundup

When you do an epic fail, we make it less painful.  Sooner or later, there comes a time when you push things too far and need to reset the BIOS back to default. In our pursuit of performance it is not a question of if but when, meaning you have to go back into the BIOS to re-enter all the settings. And, even then, sometimes hitting the reset button doesn’t work, meaning you may have to reach around to cycle the power via power supply.

We need to make it better, right?

In times like that, don’t you wish you had a magical button to simply press and fix it? Well, ROG engineers have worked some magic; the ReTry button on the Rampage V Extreme will force a hard reboot, and Safe Boot will power up the system in a safe mode where previous overclocking settings are safely kept for you to try again. Check the video below for more details.

[Video] ASUS ROG Rampage V Extreme: Safe Boot and Retry buttons

Related articles:

1. Overview: Rampage V Extreme Features – Keeping The Advantage
2. Press Release: ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces Rampage V Extreme
3. Video: Extreme Gaming PC: Rampage IV Black Edition And MARS 760 Quad SLI Build

The New Performance King: 15% faster performance than GTX Titan Z

     This is the ROG ARES III. A limited edition, world’s fastest gaming graphics card, powered by a pair of Radeon™ Hawaii XT R9 290X GPUs. Inside these GPUs pack AMD TrueAudio technology and can take advantage of Mantle-enhanced games.

In raw numbers it has 11.5 teraflops of processing power over 5632 stream processors. It's factory-overclocked to 1030 MHz, and is supported by 8GB of 5GHz (effective) GDDR5 memory. While the GTX Titan-Z is undoubtedly a monster graphics card also, now lets trump it.. convincingly; in the 3DMark Fire Strike Extreme benchmark, this monster card performs 15% faster, runs Battlefield 4 at frame rates 33% greater, and Metro Last Light at 30% faster: all in 4K UHD (3840×2160) glory.

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Engineering Craftsmanship in a Limited-Edition Card

These single-slot cards were meticulously-engineered, and carefully crafted with close attention to detail.  They are manufactured in a limited run of individually-numbered units, also making them highly collectible.  ROG ARES III includes premium design elements such as its sleek, EK water block that is hand-carved for a precision fit, running at 25% cooler than the reference R9 295X2 (although results will vary according to the performance of your water cooling kit).

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 DIGI+ VRM with Black Metallic Capacitors and 16-Phase Super Alloy Power

ASUS exclusive DIGI+ voltage-regulator module (VRM) technology delivers 16-phase power and digital voltage regulation, while the Japanese-made 10K black-metallic capacitors, Super Alloy Power chokes and hardened MOSFETs can all withstand much greater stress and heat.  The result is an ultra-stable graphics card that's forged for loads of headroom for overclocking and tuning.

ROG-Themed GPU Tweak and Live Streaming Utility

Included is the ultimate graphics card-tuning utility, offering incredibly precise control over GPU clock frequency, VRM and even fans.  There is also a live streaming utility allowing you to share on-screen action in real-time.  You can add scrolling text, pictures, and webcam images to the streaming window easily.

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What's in the Case

Yes, the ASUS ROG ARES 3 comes in a metal case.  Because you mean business.  Here are all the things you need to get started, and more.

• 3 Power cables
• 1 AMD Radeon Gold Reward game coupon
• 2 G1/4 Threaded fitting
• 1 ROG 8GB USB flash drive
• ASUS utilities and driver
• GPU Tweak

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As if one wasn't fast enough, ROG decided that overkill is merely the minimum requirement and put in dual R9 290X into its latest ARES powerhouse, with a splash of liquid cooling thanks to its custom made, single slot EK water block. If you want the peace of mind that no matter what you run, or if you are a part of the fortunate few who already have 4k Ultra HD monitor, you are not left wanting. This is the bona fide graphics card you've been craving for!

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To let you know ASUS means business, this limited edition powerhouse comes in a real metal case. Since there are only 500 made you better handcuff it to your wrist when you leave the shop, just in case. See below - even the case is carefully detailed. This styling looks more like a case housing hardware for secret missions to space.

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This will definitely be fun to bring through customs at the airport.

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 Meticulously-engineered and carefully-forged in Mount Doom of Mordor... okay maybe not, but it might as well have been looking at the detail, and for this one certainly rules them all.  ARES III beats the monstrous GTX Titan Z by 33% in Battlefield 4 and 15% in the Fire Striker Extreme benchmark, both run at 4K UHD resolution.  The ARES III is armed with dual R9-290Xs on steroids (factory-overclocked to 1,030MHz), 8GB of GDDR5, and is capable of 11.5 teraflops; as much computing power as six PlayStation 4s!

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 Three 8-Pin connectors are needed to juice up this, along with ASUS' DIGI+ VRM technology, 16-phases of Super Alloy Power hardware and Japanese-made 10k black metallic capacitors, there is 30% less power noise, it's 15% more efficient, more stable and very overclockable.

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In order for ARES III to run 25% cooler while being essentially half the size of the reference card, and at the same time improve on performance and overclockability, ASUS worked with EK to develop a custom waterblock, so your ARES III is absolutely silent. Using the bundled barbs, just plug it into a water cooling loop, and game away.

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 Accessories bundled in the case:

• User's Manual.
• Driver / Software Disc.
• Power cables.
• ROG 8GB USB Flash Drive.
• ROG Sticker.
• AMD Radeon Gold Reward game coupon.
• 2 G 1/4 threaded fitting.

What to know more?  Here is the Press Release.

Here is what you've been waiting for; boxed in ROG colors is the new Poseidon Platinum GTX 980!

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We know you won't be patient enough to wait until you get home to peek inside, so the Poseidon is made visible from the outside.

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Tucked away safely underneath the protective foam and sheet of clear plastic, inside of a box in another box, you will find the Poseidon GTX 980. In with it is the User Guide, software disc, power cable, DVI to D-Sub adapter (if you need this adapter then please take a look at the PG278Q - you need an upgrade!) and a beautifully-crafted metal ROG sticker.

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When you take the card out, this weighty beast oozes quality and toughness.  On the exterior, you have the ROG red and matte black combination, with unique heptagonal cutouts in the shroud. Naturally, it looks like it's a component pulled from a top-secret stealth fighter jet. At the core, it is powered by Nvidia's acclaimed 2nd-gen Maxwell architecture (GM204); their most powerful and efficient to date.

The Poseidon incorporates DirectCU H2O to bring you the flexibility of using air-cooling out the box or upgrade to liquid-cooling if you wish to do so.  This is the ultimate in GPU cooling (unless you have an endless supply of LN2), there little need to wait for and buy a water block suitable for the Poseidon.

 In case you don't intend on utilizing liquid-cooling initially, Poseidon is still 15% cooler than a reference board using just its DirectCU air-cooled heatsink and fans, so it is still very overclockable even without the liquid-cooling upgrade! That makes you think about what would happen if you did use liquid-cooling; the answer is yes, DirectCU H2O gives you extreme heat dissipation; with up to half the temperature in fact (in certain tests/environments)! 

It is quiet - up to three times quieter than reference - as well as being 3.7% faster than reference in 3DMark 11 Extreme, 7% faster in Battlefield 4, and 10% faster in Watch Dogs if you're still working through that one.

Even though it is fast enough already, ROG loves overkill so it comes factory-overclocked at 1,279MHz (4.5% boost from 1,178MHz), with 4GB of GDDR5 operating at 7,012MHz (effective) on its 256bit memory bus. The 2048-core GPU is fed by the DIGI+ VRM with a 10-phase power design, high-quality Super Alloy chokes and MOSFETs, also Japanese-made 10K black metallic capacitors which have 20% better temperature endurance and five times the lifespan of standard solid caps, meanwhile POSCAPs  positioned at the back of the GPU help maximize overclocking headroom.

ASUS has not factory-overclocked too aggressively, so there is still plenty of headroom left for you to play yourself; grab GPU Tweak and there's enough to satisfy even the most extreme enthusiast.

There are five choices of outputs: DVI, HDMI 2.0 and three DisplayPort 1.2 (four of which can be used concurrently).  

Note that if you do wish to take the DirectCU H2O cooling unit off, you will need to unscrew the six screws next to these output ports as well as the screws on the backplate.  The PCB is sandwiched between the brushed-metal backplate, the custom vapor chamber for liquid-cooling, extended cooling fins with three large heat-pipes, and dual dust-proof fans.

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At the rear of the PCB is the brushed-metal ASUS Poseidon branded back-plate, which doesn't only look good but helps spread and dissipate the heat.  On the outside edge you can see two G¼-inch threaded fittings so you have the freedom to choose the barb size you need to match your water cooling.

There is an exclusive real-time GPU load indicator ROG logo that pulsates in ROG red when the card is in use (it is an indicator, please do not mistake it as a warning light; nothing is going to explode!).  This is unique to ROG graphics hardware. 

The dual-slot card measures 11.3 X 5.4 X 1.6 inches in size and there is plenty of power overhead from the 6-pin and an 8-pin power connectors, which have LED indicators on each to signify if each power cable is installed correctly.

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In case you were curious but still wanted to keep your warranty, here we pull the card apart for you to reveal the components inside: everything that needs cooling gets the DirectCU H2O treatment.

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Full reviews of the new Matrix GTX 980 from your favorite websites are due next week, but before we dig into the meaty details, here's an overview of the specs and a couple of pictures to tease!

Matrix GTX 980 Spec Overview

• Nvidia GTX 980 GPU with 1342 MHz GPU Boost Clock
• 4GB, 7010 MHz (effective) GDDR5
• 3 x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI, 1x dual-link DVI-I display outputs
• ROG color-coded load Indicator
• ROG Edition GPU Tweak
• DirectCU II cooler with CoolTech fan, 10mm matt-black heatpipes
• Extreme OC Features: Memory Defroster, Safe Mode,
• DIGI+ VRM power control with 14-phase Super Alloy Power and Black Metallic capacitors.

We teased you last week and here it is - the new Matrix GTX 980! It has already dropped a new 3DMark 11 Performance result of 28,557, setting its status as one of the world's top-performing graphics cards, and we expect there's still much more benching to come once the world's overclockers get a-hold of theirs as well!

Matrix special features include a DirectCU II cooler with CoolTech fan, unique matt-black heatpipes and real-time load reactive ROG LED you can see through your case window. Underneath, the PCB packs a memory defroster for extreme overclockers (that's what the 4-pin Molex on the end is for), and a Safe Mode button that resets everything is things go too far.

There's the usual ASUS DIGI+ VRM hardware that now powered 14 phases, with upgraded Super Alloy Power bits and 10k black-metallic capacitors that work well even when sub-zero. Extreme overclockers who hardware unlock the card have plenty of power overhead to dive into.

The Matrix GTX 980 by the numbers:

• NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 GPU
• Video memory: 4GB GDDR5
• GPU boost clock: 1342MHz
• GPU base clock: 1241MHz
• GDDR5 Memory clock: 7010MHz (effective)
• Memory interface: 256-bit
• DVI output: 1 x Native Dual-link DVI-I
• HDMI output: 1 x Native HDMI 2.0
• DisplayPort: 3 x Native DisplayPort
• Adapters/cables bundled: 1 x Power Cable, 1 x ROG Metal Sticker
• Software bundled: ASUS utilities and driver
• ROG Edition GPU Tweak
• Dimensions: 11.7 x 6 x 1.6in

For the full details hit the PR button below the pics.

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To be or not to be, that is no longer a question.  This is the ROG Matrix Platinum GTX 980 (codename MATRIX-GTX980-P-4GD5)  being all that it can be, with no compromises.  A new hyperbole needs to concocted for something that is actually that good.

Making the decision to invest in such an incredible piece of hardware can sometimes be difficult.  In those times, whatever you do; don't look inside the box.  Because if you come face to face with the ultimate ROG beast, then you'll surely see that the only thing that can satisfy an insatiable hunger for ultimate power lies within, and there's no way you're going to leave the store empty-handed.

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Oh well, sorry.  There's no going back now, I opened it.  

Tucked away snugly beneath the a clear sheet of plastic and protective foam, lies the new Matrix Platinum GTX 980. Inside with it is the User Guide, software disc, two power cables and a beautifully-crafted metal ROG sticker.

After you have taken the card out ever so delicately with both hands, you can hold it up to the heavens and do an reenactment of The Lion King.  You will start to notice this beast of a card was made exactly how you had envisioned it; solidly built and ready for whatever you intend to throw at it (figuratively speaking). On the exterior, you have the traditional ROG red and matte black combination, styled like Spiderman meets Tron.  The only difference being - this is not science fiction.

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The dual-slot card measures 11.3 X 5.4 X 1.6 inches in size.

At the core, it is powered by Nvidia's acclaimed 2nd-gen Maxwell architecture (GM204); their most powerful and efficient architecture to date.  ROG keeps overkill as the minimum settings; it comes factory-overclocked at 1,342MHz (14% boost from 1,178MHz), with 4GB of GDDR5 video memory operating at 7,012MHz (effective) on its 256bit memory bus.

The Matrix is fitted with a DirectCU II heatsink which provides you with 25% greater cooling and three times quieter than reference design. It incorporates a CoolTech fan for multi-directional cooling, making this an exceptional quiet card even when the fans ramp up.  As ROG is obsessed with the details, you might have noticed that even the 10mm heatpipes and heatsink fins are matte-black to match the theme, while on the PCB rear is a brushed-metal, Matrix branded back-plate, which not only looks good but also helps spread and dissipate the heat. 

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On the side, there is a ROG color-coded, real-time load indicator that changes color to show the GPU load level - blue for light load, orange for medium, red for heavy and green for safe mode.  This is unique to ROG graphics hardware!

For those using liquid nitrogen, solder in the VGA Hotwire wires and short the available points to unlock LN2 mode, then plug in a 4-pin molex power cable to use the memory defroster. This keeps the memory from freezing up, avoiding cold bugs and the need for excessive insulation that can get in the way of multi-GPU LN2 setups.

The 2,048-core GPU and memory is fed by the DIGI+ VRM with a 14-phase power design, Super Alloy Power chokes and hardened MOSFETs, also its Japanese-made 10K Nichicon GT-Series black metallic capacitors have 20% better temperature endurance and five times the lifespan of standard solid caps.

 ASUS has not factory-overclocked too aggressively, so there is still plenty of headroom left for you to play around with - which is half the fun! Download and install GPU Tweak and there's enough to satisfy even the most extreme enthusiast. The twin 8-pin power connectors have LED indicators on each to signify if each power cable is installed correctly.

 There are five choices of display outputs: DVI, HDMI 2.0 and three DisplayPort 1.2 (four of which can be used concurrently). Note that if you do wish to take the DirectCU II cooling unit off, you will need to unscrew the six screws on the rear bracket as well.

 In case you were curious about what's underneath but still wanted to keep your warranty, we pulled apart the card for you to see:

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2014 is over already? We hope you've got a great night of celebration ahead (or if you're reading this on 1st, we hope the hang-over is not too bad!) . It's been a big year of 'firsts' for Republic of Gamers (and TUF and Strix), with many new product series launching; Poseidon, Striker, new mini-desktops, new series' of gaming laptops, a monitor, new mice, motherboards with new designs and painted PCBs, and much, much more. As it goes into its ninth year in 2015, ROG has evolved well beyond the motherboards and graphics cards that first made its name as the performance gamer's choice.

We've been through the last 35 pages of archives (!!) to dig out the best bits of 2014 as a reminder what ASUS, Strix, TUF and ROG products arrived, month-by-month. What was your 2014 upgrade and what are you looking forward to in 2015? We've got some great stuff in the pipe and it all starts off with CES next week. And no, my lips (well, fingers) are sealed until then!

January 2014:

• First ROG Poseidon launched, with exclusive Direct H2O hybrid cooling design
• World's first G-Sync monitor arrived, with the limited edition Nvidia VG248Q G-Sync upgrade mod
• ASUS R9 290/290X DirectCU II graphics cards launched
• The bigger ROG Nomad backpack launched

February 2014:

• ASUS GTX Titan Black graphics card launched
• ASUS GTX 750 Ti DirectCU II graphics card launched

March 2014:

• Both ROG Matrix GTX 780 Ti and R9 290X graphics cards double-launch
• ROG G750 series gaming notebooks launched
• ASUS GTX 280 DirectCU II graphics card launched
• ROG G56JR gaming notebook launched

April 2014:

• ASUS R9 295X graphics card launched
• ROG introduces Striker series graphics cards, with Striker GTX 760 Platinum
• 4K revolution continues, with ASUS PB287Q

May 2014:

• ROG introduces Maximus VII series with Hero, Gene and new Ranger
• TUF launches its Z97 series Sabertooth and Gryphon
• ASUS GTX Titan Z launches
• ROG launches the G550JK gaming notebook
• Strix launches its first semi-fanless graphics cards with the R9 280 and GTX 780 series
• Strix Pro gaming headset launches

June 2014:

• Computex announcements for ARES III, GR8, Crossblade Ranger, Gladius mouse, GX500 gaming notebook, Maximus VII Formula, Impact, G20 and GK2000 keyboard!
• Computex announcements for PA328Q, PB279Q 4K monitors

July 2014:

• ROG launches the Maximus VII Formula motherboard
• ROG Swift PG278Q G-Sync gaming monitor launches
• Strix GTX 750 Ti graphics card launches
• Xonar U5 USB sound card and headphone amp launches
• Strix series expands its gaming credentials with the Strix DSP headset, Strix Claw mouse, Strix Tactic Pro keyboard and Strix Glide mouse mats launch

August 2014:

• ROG Rampage V Extreme motherboard launches
• ROG Crossblade Ranger motherboard launches
• ROG Maximus VII Impact motherboard launches
• ASUS X99 series motherboards launch
• ROG GM50 mouse mat launches

September 2014:

• Strix R9 285 graphics card launches
• ROG launches the Gladius gaming mouse
• ROG launches the ARES III graphics card
• ROG launches the G20 mini gaming desktop
• ROG launches the G551 and G771 series gaming laptops
• Strix GTX 980 and GTX 970 graphics cards launch

October 2014:

• ROG launches the GR8 mini gaming desktop
• ROG launches the G751 series gaming laptops
• ASUS launches the Z97 Pro Gamer motherboard

November 2014:

• ROG Poseidon GTX 980 graphics cards launches
• TUF launches the limited edition Sabertooth Z97 Mark S - white PCB, white Thermal Armor
• Strix 7.1 gaming headset launched

December 2014:

• ASUS GTX 970 DirectCU Mini graphics card launched for mini-ITX PCs
• ASUS PB279Q 4K monitor launches
• ROG Matrix GTX 980 graphics card launches
• Strix 2.0 gaming headset launches
• Xonar U3 Plus USB mini-sound card launches

The Sica is an affordable, ambidextrous gaming mouse (compared to the Gladius), that offers core ROG gaming features like the separate left and right buttons on its body, and swappable Omron switches with the ROG exclusive button socket. On the sides it will have texture imprint pattern to aid grip and ROG fans take note that a backlit red led will breathe just like the Gladius.

The Sica is designed specifically for MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) games like League of Legends and DOTA 2. It's design is smaller for finger grip style (or just for those with smaller hands) and it uses the ROG Armory software.

If you're wondering, what is a 'Sica'?  It's a short sword or large dagger of ancient Illyrians, Thracians and Dacians and Ancient Rome, originating in the Halstatt culture. It was originally depicted as a curved sword, with a blade about 16–18 inches long (40–45 cm).

Like the Spatha and Gladius ROG mice named after Roman hand-weapons, the Sica is also ready for you to wield in online games.

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Here's the new team lined up, from upcoming Spatha, to current Gladius and new Sica.

Following our recently Gladius and soon-to-launch Sica, we are also introducing our fans to the premium Spatha! It's still early days yet with the mouse shown below is still in active design and development, and is not projected for release at earliest until post Q2. We have a mix of images from an engineering & development sample as well as renders of the final mouse.

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The key spec we are announcing at CES 2015 is as follows:

• 12 programmable buttons: designed for MMOs
• Magnetic docking station for storage and charging

• Can be used in wired or wireless mode:

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• ROG exclusive swappable Omron switch sockets (like the Gladius)
• Ergonomic right-handed design for full grip (or larger hands)
• Laser sensor and high-quality ALPS scroll wheel
• Uses ROG Armory software (like Gladius and Sica)

Like the Gladius and Sica, the Spatha is a type of Roman sword. Specifically, a long sword up to 1 meter long and was a used as a standard heavy infantry weapon by the army and in gladiatorial combat. Thus, as your gaming weapon, the naming fits perfectly! 

Connect up your ASUS/ROG/Strix together and finish off your SLI build with an ROG SLI bridge. The ROG team has designed SLI bridges available for 2, 3 and 4-way SLI systems, with varying widths between the cards to match ROG motherboards. It's construction uses high-quality aluminum, with a red backlit ROG logo in the center.

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But why do I need a fancy SLI bridge when I get one free with my motherboard? Well, apart from the fact it's been an oft-requested feature (we do listen out to our fans!), when you're spending the $ on a few graphics cards and possibly a new Rampage X99 rig to match, it's a small but very important upgrade because it often sits right behind a case window and it's the first thing you'll see.

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Only just unveiled at CES 2015 are ROG's soon-to-launch lineup of mice Spatha and Sica, and also the new premium ROG mouse mat Whetstone.  As the mice are named after blades, it is apt to call the best companion to these mice Whetstone - a flat surface used to keep weapons sharp and in optimal shape for battles.  Whetstone is due to be launched in the first quarter of this year, and each country will announce their own respective pricing details at time of launch.  It is the successor to the ROG GM50 launched last year.

Some key features are:

• Canvas bonded to silicone using an 8-stage process that guarantees quality and longevity.
• Silicone is used for the base (instead of rubber) to minimize smell and stains, and provide superior grip.
• Washable design that’s easy to clean, and dries with a simple shake or wipe down.
• Best of both worlds: Firm feel and fast surface like a hard surface much like plastic and glass, yet rollable so it’s easy to throw in your backpack.

Whetstone was constructed using an 8-stage process that bonds the non-slip ROG-red silicone base to its Mayan patterned cover. The ROG logo is laser cut into the surface, revealing the silicone color that is underneath. It’s designed to have a faster surface than the canvas GM50, yet still rollable, thus portable.

ROG engineers specifically tailored it to match Spatha, Gladius and Sica, all using the Mayan patterned grip.  The engineers also co-worked with a leading eSports team Taipei Assassins, to fine-tune the materials, feel of the surface and speed.

Here's a hands-on video showing the Whetstone from CES 2015:

[video]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqhOwxIxfMA[/video]

We're giving away 15 ROG Enthusiast SLI Bridge's for owners of ROG systems with either 2-way, 3-way or 4-way SLI graphics cards in their systems.

Simply follow the four steps on the competition page and you'll be in with a chance to win one! We look forward to seeing your gaming rigs!

Starting on January 30^th at 12pm GMT, ASUS ROG launches its OC Showdown 2015 overclocking competition!

The aim of OC Showdown 2015 is to engage and support the entire OC community; whether you're the very top of the game or just enthusiastic about joining in for some benchmarking fun. A total of six online competitions are planned for 2015 on the HWBOT (oc-esports.io) website, with three rounds per series, through to the third quarter this year. Those who join throughout the three events will be able to accumulate points for the entire series!

The competition is separated in two series, supporting all levels of overclocking enthusiasts:

• Extreme Series for extreme cooling overclockers (sub-zero ºC; suitable for HWBot Elite and Extreme leagues)
• Formula Series for air and water cooling overclockers (above 20ºC; suitable for HWBot Rookie, Novice and Enthusiast leagues)

The first event of the Extreme series starts today through to March 2nd with the Formula series kicking off on March 6th.

ROG OC Showdown 2015 would like to thank several key partners that are providing prizes for each round. Prize partners for the Extreme series are Intel, G.Skill, Enermax and 8ECC and for the upcoming Formula series prize partners are Intel, HyperX and Enermax.

See the press release below for more details on the OC Showdown launch, and for competition rules and benchmark details, see each series page above.

We've read your forum posts, your Facebook comments and emails; as one of our most popular articles ever we know you loved the GX500 when we showed it at Computex last year. Yet, as perfectionists, ROG engineers decided to continue to improve areas of the design. The result is the new G501, which is an evolution of the earlier '500. Where the GX500 wow'd at Computex by breaking boundaries on thinness, weight and performance, the G501 has these and more; we've made it even cooler, quieter and we've refreshed the hardware inside too. 

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The G501 cooler features twin, high-quality Sunnon fans with independent fan control for GPU and CPU.

While we're saving the fine details for later, key specs continue to include the option of 4K (3840 x 2160) IPS or Full HD displays with 100% sRGB, and dual storage with the option of a PCI-Express x4-based SSD that gives incredible performance, without suffering the risks of RAID. On the gaming front it still stands up it, packing up to an Intel quad-core CPU an upcoming Nvidia 900-series GPU.

Brand new is the G501's upgraded Hyper Cool technology, which keeps it cool and silent with an intelligent, yet, super-slim dual-fan cooling system. It's now the coolest and quietest thin and light gaming notebook on the market!

For the Twitch and streaming generation of MOBA, MMO or Minecraft gamers that play games windowed, while simultaneously controlling the audio and visual feed - the 4K display means you can still game and record at Full HD with three other Full HD spaces are available for other apps, and its powerful, yet highly efficient Nvidia GPU is ideal.

However, the G501 isn't all gaming; the brushed, black aluminum has serious business acumen. Show up to meetings with a discreet, stylish and cutting-edge performance notebook, rather than choose between 'gaming bling' or less powerful alternatives. The multi-tasking benefits of the high PPI display, super-fast PCIE SSD and silent running are great for when you're limited to a single screen on the go and being super slim and light it's also extremely portable as well; slipping easily into most bags and giving you that extra kilo when flying. Meanwhile, creative professionals also benefit from the fact the IPS display is 100% sRGB, it can house plenty of memory and its fast, Nvidia GPU is perfect for Adobe's Creative Suite of apps (or equivalent).

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ASUS ROG will this week launch its ROG OC Showdown: Formula Series; the first to accommodate exclusively for overclockers who are air and water cooling on either of the ASUS Z87 and Z97 platforms.

Note that Extreme Series participants are not eligible to enter the Formula Series, so ASUS expects more open playing field for those without access to extreme cooling techniques such as liquid nitrogen. Extreme (Subzero) overclockers; get ready for the OC Showdown 2015 Extreme series, Round Two, which will kick off soon!  The Extreme Series targets overclockers with Z97 or X99 motherboards from ASUS, ASUS ROG or ASUS TUF, further details and competition schedule are available here.

The Formula Series, Round One, starts on March 6th. If you want to join in here are more details regarding making entries, T&Cs and eligibility.

Besides the bragging-rights to overclocking domination, ASUS is also packing in the prizes with top-end Strix graphics, Maximus VII Formula and Impact motherboards, with complementary prizes from partners Intel, Enermax and HyperX offering some awesome prizes, such as  the ones shown below as incentives, plus more!   Here is the full list of prizes.

The Formula Series competition name is a wink and nod to ROG Maximus' Formula series motherboards, with hybrid CrossChill cooling that can be cooled by air or water cooling.

The Formula Series competition is divided into three challenging stages where contestants have the opportunity to get the best results for 

• Intel Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU),
• Catzilla 720p
• MaxxMem Read Bandwidth.  

If you want to know more hit the press release below.