What is a main new feature at new Z68 mainboard?

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What is Z68.. well the simple explanation is a combination of P67/H67 with fewer limitations. For example similar to P67 we still run on Socket 1155, support is present of all 2nd Generation Core CPUs (Sandy Bridge) with multiplier changes, there are 2x 8xPCIe configs in CrossFire/SLI and memory support is present for DDR3-1600+ but we add support from H67 for on-board graphics (with overclocking) and of course with the GPU comes Quick Sync technology/GPU computing.

There are also two features which are not present on either the H67 or P67. The first is Intel Smart Response Technology. This feature allows us to combine the performance of an SSD and mechanical drive to boost system responsiveness. The second, though it won't feature on every Z68 board, is switchable graphics via Lucid or NVIDIA technology.

Gigabyte had already launching for 11 type of Z68 mainboard, there are split with two code with 'H' and 'X' version, which is X version is without onboard graphics connector, but on the Gigabyte motherboard line-up, only the models that have an “H” on their product name have video connectors and, thus, support the Virtu technology. Unfortunately, Gigabyte decided to add support to the Virtu technology only on their entry-level Z68 motherboards, because only these models have video connectors.

What is Intel Smart Respons Technology?

Looking back a couple of years, Intel made plans to include a NAND flash module - the very same that reside in a modern solid-state drive - on future motherboard chipsets. The module, mooted to be 4GB to 16GB, would be integrated on to a motherboard and set to act as a super-fast cache for frequently-used programs, especially when running in concert with a large capacity HDD. The technology, dubbed Braidwood, was fundamentally sound yet never found its way on to last-generation H55 and P55 motherboards, strangely.

Well, Braidwood is back again, sort of. Intel is now calling it Smart Response Technology, and it works by using any external SATA-connected SSD to act as that fast cache for systems that have a regular HDD as the primary drive. This two-drive setup, using a small-capacity SSD and larger HDD, is deemed a relatively inexpensive method of increasing overall performance. Seagate, through the single-drive, hybrid Momentus XT, has shown that using an SSD cache alongside a regular HDD makes a lot of sense if done correctly.

Working through RST (too many acronyms, I know), a number of steps need to be taken before the SSD can be used to accelerate the storage subsystem. It requires the use of Windows 7, Vista or Server 2008. Before you install the OS the SATA controller needs to be set to RAID mode, for SRT is effectively pairing a couple of drives on the desktop.

To do this Intel already prepare software to do so. There are a few stepping to make you additional Hardisk working fast with help of small amount of SSD storage, so you don't need to buy a large size of SSD (because is expensive) but you can combine ex. 20GB of fast SSD (Intel produce 20GB 311-series Larson Creek SSD to support SRT) with 500GB / 1TB SATA2 or SATA3 which is alaredy cheap right now, with SSD speed.

There are two mode to run SRT Enhanced or Maximized, here is what you should consider it.

Quick Sync switchable IGP with Discreet Graphics

At Z68 mainboard you can use a discrete card, or two, for ultimate gaming performance and then use the onboard IGP graphics for some speedy transcoding by way of Intel QuickSync technology. However, as owners of H67 boards have found out, the IGP's QuickSync magic cannot be used at the same time as a discrete card; only one graphics output can be active at one time, and it's a problem that Intel should have sorted out without going to a third party in this case.

Help is at hand for H67 and prospective Z68 owners from LucidLogix - the company behind the GPU-agnostic Hydra trickery. You see, it has come up with a way to tap into both the discrete GPU and Intel HD Graphics-powered IGP at the same time.

LucidLogix's Virtu software has been licensed by Intel on some of its retail desktop boards and, particularly for this review, ASUS for five Z68 boards. Both the discrete and IGP drivers are installed and the display is connected to the IGP's output. Virtu software is then installed and it picks up both graphics.

Bottom is Virtu control panel.

The last word is let's see the new era of Hardisk transition with cheaper solution to get SSD performance, Intel has done it again to interact Desktop integration of two technology. Be prepare for this guys.