To coincide with the release of Intel Core 2 processors, MSI has announced the improved 975X Platinum board which is designed to operate with the full line-up - including Core2 Extreme and Core 2 Duo. With major enhancements to the inbuilt processors and improved circuit design, the 975X Platinum offers lower power consumption, high performance and high quality graphics support, the company says.

"In order to satisfy the over-clocking requirements of gamers, the revised 975X Platinum supports high speed DDR2-1066," says Rudi Thietz, national channel procurement manager at Pinnacle Micro. "Gamers are now encouraged to source the best set-up matrix based on these processors and memory modules to challenge previous performance options."

The 975X Platinum is also equipped with MSI's Dual CoreCell technologies including the Dual CoreCenter, he adds, which is designed to monitor and tweak each core CPU/GPU, and to introduce a variety of scenario modes for the most effective experience. Dual CoreCell also includes DOT Express and Live Update 3 technology, which effectively delivers high precision performance and sound, he says.

"The 975X Platinum supports dual-graphic technology, allowing for smooth 3D gaming experiences and streaming video processing," says Thietz. The two PCI Express x16 slots aim to allow users to run two graphics cards in ATi CrossFire mode to achieve high graphics performance.

As with the 955X, MSI has introduced entertainment experience (PCEE) to the 975X Platinum. This means the board has integrated 7.1-channel Dolby Master Studio Certified HD Audio, and is capable of creating an array of surround sound and audio effects, depending on the user's sound set-up.

"Lastly, in compliance with environmental practices and awareness, all components of the 975X Platinum are RoHS compliant, and this includes the actual manufacturing process," says Thietz. "The boards are made with high quality components, which will not pollute the environment once disposed of."