Intel DX79SI Motherboard
Conclusions
Contents
Intel-branded motherboards are usually plain and generally targeted to conservative users. These users want to have the peace of mind knowing that the motherboard in their computers was designed by the same company that manufactured the processor.
Intel usually takes a conservative approach when designing their motherboards, but the Intel DX79SI has some advantages over its competitors, such as the included Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1 module, the presence of two Gigabit Ethernet ports, the two FireWire ports, eight memory sockets, and the support for three-way SLI and CrossFireX without the need for a case with more than seven expansion slots.
The drawbacks of this motherboard include the absence of extra SATA ports and eSATA ports, the use of a mainstream audio codec instead of a high-end one, and fewer overclocking options compared to the competition. The voltage regulator circuit available on the Intel DX79SI is very good, but competing products offer even better designs.
In summary, the Intel DX79SI is a fair-priced, good option for the new LGA2011 platform. Only you will be able to choose if you prefer the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module instead of more SATA ports.