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  • Gigabyte GA-890FXA-UD5 Motherboard Review
  • Gigabyte GA-890FXA-UD5 Motherboard Review

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    Introduction

    We talk a lot about building computers and while we try not to overshadow a product with the costs involved but the truth is overclocking and performance parts are not cheap and a lot of what we feature here is pretty expensive.  To battle this most companies will create several products at the various price points in hopes of satisfying everyone, regardless of their budget. 

    One of the least expensive platforms to build on is one using AMD processors, current generations are not as fast or popular as previous generations but for how much you're going to spend the performance differences are negligible.  One thing we need to stress is that you do get what you pay for, less expensive systems often have fewer features to keep costs down.  Gigabyte understands this and does a great job at adding "value" to their budget systems in various forms.  So, if you're into overclocking or simply need an endless supply of switches, settings, and speeds to play with then look no further.    

    In this review we will be looking at the Gigabyte GA-890FXA-UD5.  This is an AMD based motherboard built on the AMD 890FX chipset and supports the latest Phenom II and Athlon II processors.  As with most modern chipsets they find roots in the previous generation with a few upgrades to take advantage of technology and processor advancements.
    The GA-890FXA-UD5 is using the standard Gigabyte blue PCB color and carefully choreographed alterations of blue and white across the connectors and expansion slots.  AMD is still using a Northbridge and Southbridge chipset configuration however, unlike previous designs; all of the highspeed connectivity such as SATA6, and USB3 are handled by the Northbridge leaving the Southbridge to supply many of the legacy technologies like PCI, USB2, and audio output. 

    One of the most notable improvements unique to the 890FX is native support for SATA6.  Of course Gigabyte has also added support for many of their technologies to help round out the entire product offering.