MSI Project Zero finally released
MSI is finally making their motherboards with hidden power connectors official.
MSI B650M Project Zero, Source: MSI
First announced at Computex, MSI is finally making their new motherboards series a reality. These motherboards implement a unique approach by hiding power and interface connectors on the opposite side. It’s worth noting that this concept isn’t entirely new, as other motherboard manufacturers, such as ASUS with their DIY-APE and Gigabyte with Project Stealth, have previously embraced a similar design. Interestingly, MSI had showcased prototypes based on the Intel Z690 chipset over a year and a half ago, but they never made it to an official product release.
Nevertheless, MSI’s latest series is now officially introduced with the launch of the AMD B650M and Intel B760M mid-range motherboards, both featuring remarkably similar yet not identical designs. The key improvement lies in a cleaner front design achieved by relocating all power connectors, fan connectors, and other pin headers to the rear of the board. This arrangement simplifies cable management, resulting in a neater and more organized setup, with no visible cables.
Intel B760M Project Zero, Source: MSI
However, it’s important to note that this design requires a specific chassis that can accommodate these concealed connectors and route cables accordingly. The DIY-APE case program has been available for some time, but those in need of such a case may need to invest some effort in finding one that suits their requirements. Encouragingly, MSI is set to launch their own case, the MSI MAG PANO 100, available in both black and white designs, as hinted at on the motherboard product pages. While the exact release date for both the motherboards and cases remains undisclosed by MSI, they are expected to become available on store shelves concurrently.
B650M PROJECT ZERO Features
- Supports AMD Ryzen™ 7000 Series Desktop Processors
- Supports DDR5 Memory, up to 7600+(OC) MHz
- Premium Thermal Solution: Extended Heatsink Design and M.2 Shield Frozr are built for high performance system and non-stop works
- 2.5G LAN and AMD Wi-Fi 6E Solution: Upgraded network solution for professional and multimedia use. Delivers a secure, stable and fast network connection
- Lightning M.2: Running at PCIe Gen 4 maximizes performance for NVMe based SSDs
- Lightning USB 20G: Built-in USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port, offers 20Gbps transmission speed, 4X faster than USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Audio Boost: Reward your ears with studio grade sound
B760M PROJECT ZERO Features
- Support Intel® Core™ 14th/ 13th/ 12th Gen Processors, Intel® Pentium® Gold and Celeron® Processors for LGA 1700 socket
- Supports DDR5 Memory, up to 7800+(OC) MHz
- Enhanced Power Design: 12+1+1 Duet Rail Power System, dual 8-pin CPU power connectors, Core Boost, Memory Boost
- Lightning Fast Game experience: PCIe 5.0 slot, Lightning Gen 4 x4 M.2, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Premium Thermal Solution: Extended Heatsink Design and M.2 Shield Frozr are built for high performance system and non-stop works
- Audio Boost: Reward your ears with studio grade sound
- High Quality PCB: 6-layer PCB made by 2oz thickened copper and server grade level material
Z790 PROJECT ZERO
MSI Z790 Project Zero, Source: MSI
Additionally, MSI is in the process of developing a high-end Z790 motherboard as part of this project, as indicated in the data-sheet shared by @wnxod on the X platform. It’s worth noting that this particular product has not yet made its way onto the company’s official website, meaining that it’s not yet ready for release. Notably, this board will be compatible with WiFi 7, making it the first motherboard of its kind to feature hidden power connectors while supporting this advanced connectivity standard.
