VR-Zone

With hi-definition audio and visuals becoming more and more common, Home Theater PCs (HTPC), while offering improved audio support and hi-definition multimedia playback, also provide more upgradeability and compatibility as compared to single function devices. As such, more people are seeking to build their own HTPC units instead.

Global mainboard and graphic producer, MSI, has integrated Intel's current multimedia platform - the Intel® G41 chipset - into its new series of mainboards to meet this growing demand.

The Intel® G41 chipset sets a new standard for visual enhancement technology with DirectX 10 support, playback-enhancing decoders, integrated HDMI and DVI outputs, cutting-edge multimedia equipment, and Intel's own Clear Video technology. This new series not only meets all the demands for creating an HTPC with competitive pricing, but has also obtained certification for use with Microsoft's next generation operating system - Windows 7.

Support for HD movies and independent visual improvement technologies

The Intel® G41 chipset's integrated Intel® GMA X4500 GPU, compared to its G31 predecessor, not only improves 3D performance, but also supports DirectX 10, OpenGL 2.0 and other graphical standards for complete gaming support. Additionally, the G41 chipset also supports faster hardware decoding, which decreases CPU utilization, and can playback all current formats of HD movies. The Intel® G41 chipset with Intel® Clear Video technology, improves the playback quality and level of detail for a better home theater experience.

HDMI and DVI output for completely digital visual support

The Intel® G41 chipset, in addition to the standard D-Sub and DVI-D video ports, also supports the dual video and audio output standard, HDMI. When connecting to another audio visual display product, HDMI brings forth rich images and sound in one connection for even simpler setup and use.

Take on the latest games with DX10 support

Another key feature of the Intel® G41 chipset is its DirectX 10 support. All one needs is to run Windows Vista or the upcoming Windows 7 operating systems to enjoy the most life-like gaming visuals around - a must for today's HTPCs.

MSI-only exclusive technologies onboard

MSI's own APS intelligent power management, USB safeguard protection and M-Flash BIOS recovery are just some of the ways this latest G41 series ensures a new level of convenience for customers.

Of course, every different product, due to market placement and demands, will have specification differences. Currently the strongest boards - G41TM-E63/ G41TM-E43 - are the G41 series flagship products, and include all of the above mentioned technologies with embedded D-Sub, DVI and HDMI ports. Additionally, these boards feature a completely solid capacitor design which enhances the product's life span and stability.

MSI's Easy OC Switch technology is also found onboard to allow the user to easily overclock via the BIOS-located 'switch' - Just set and go, it's just as simple as that.