MSI P55-GD80 P55 LGA1156 Core i5 Motherboard Unboxing Linus Tech Tips
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Description
The last in this series of MSI P55 motherboard unboxing videos (for now...). Stay tuned for more motherboard previews from other vendors as supplies start to trickle in leading up to the launch of the P55 platform.
This video presents a detailed unboxing and feature preview of the MSI P55-GD80 motherboard, the flagship MSI P55 model for LGA1156 socket given in Linus Tech Tips’ coverage of the P55 lineup. The host begins with an overview of the box and the premium packaging, noting the high quality presentation and the extensive accessory bundle, including multiple SLI and CrossFire bridges, an I/O shield, driver CDs, manuals, and a large collection of cables and adapters. The unboxing continues with a close look at the motherboard itself, highlighting key physical features such as the eight DIMM slots, the 8-pin and 24-pin power connectors, and the distinctive LCD readout post-code display. Special emphasis is placed on the “extreme speed” or “super pipe” cooling solution, a very thick heat pipe that runs from the chipset to the MOSFETs, which is described as a standout design choice for this platform. The video also touches on the board’s layout, including PCIe expansion slots, heat dissipation components, and onboard buttons for OC and recovery, as well as the array of back panel I/O, which includes PS2, USB, FireWire, eSATA/USB combo, Ethernet, and 7.1 audio. Throughout, the host teases an upcoming overclocking guide and notes that the GD80 represents MSI’s top-tier offering for the P55 family, with plans to release additional OC content and reviews for Clarkdale CPUs and other LGA1156 chips. In summary, the video combines a thorough physical tour with a strong emphasis on expandability, cooling innovations, and the accessories that accompany a premium motherboard package, making it clear that the GD80 is positioned as a feature-rich, enthusiast-grade option for early P55 enthusiasts and benchmarkers alike.
Topics · technology · hardware · unboxing · computer hardware · pc components
Questions answered
- What makes the MSI P55-GD80 special among P55 boards?
- The video highlights the GD80 as MSI's flagship P55 motherboard with a large accessory package, multiple SLI/CrossFire bridges, a robust cooling system called the super pipe, and an LCD post-code display, along with extensive overclocking features.
- What is the super pipe in the OC Genie setup?
- The super pipe is a very thick heat pipe that runs from the chipset to the MOSFETs, designed to improve cooling and stability during overclocking.
- What back panel I/O options are shown for the GD80?
- The board offers PS2, digital audio, FireWire, USB, eSATA/USB combo, Ethernet, and 7.1 channel audio on the back panel.