Motherboards with zero visible cables are gradually becoming available. After Asus, it’s now MSI’s turn to launch two Project Zero models. The program includes an AMD B650 and an Intel B760!
B650M Project Zero: the AMD model!
This motherboard is in micro-ATX format, equipped with an AM5 socket and a B650 chipset, and features connectors on the back of the PCB. This means that, once the configuration has been assembled, 0 cables are visible!
This change in connector position allows MSI to integrate a number of aesthetic elements. We’re thinking in particular of the heatsinks/shield. What’s more, the bottom of the board is emblazoned with the series logo.
Other connectivity features include four DDR5 memory slots supporting up to 128 GB of RAM at 7600 MT/s. The PCIe section features a first x16 4.0 connector, while a small x1 3.0 connector is also present. The storage section offers two M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4 slots, while four SATA slots are available… On the back of the PCB!
Finally, we can count on a Realtek RTL8125BG 2.5 GbE network. As for audio, it’s a Realtek ALC897 chip that’s up to the task.
And the B760M in Intel!
With this model, MSI offers us a micro-ATX format board equipped with a LGA-1700 socket and a B760 chipset. Once again, all connectivity is located on the back of the board, leaving no visible cables after assembly.
The aesthetic appearance of this model seems less accomplished than that of the previous board. The shields/dissipators are less massive and fewer in number.
Four DDR5 memory slots remain. They can accommodate 192 GB of RAM, all clocked at 7800 MT/s. The PCIe section features a first x16 slot in the 5.0 standard. The second will be an x1 3.0, while the third is an x16 wired as an x4 in the 4.0 standard. Finally, two M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4 and four SATA slots are available for storage.
As for networking, nothing is said about the Ethernet chip used, but the card features WiFi 6E. Audio is limited to ALC897.
A third Z790 card teased!
Finally, via @wxnod, we find a Z790 model, but the card doesn’t yet seem ready for launch. Indeed, no product sheet has been published on the MSI website. All we have to go on are the visuals highlighting the aesthetically pleasing card. We also know that the card will feature Wi-FI 7.
