MSI Project Zero: New Unify motherboard
Custom PCs have evolved over time, and new trends have constantly found their way into the home computers of enthusiasts.
While external fan controls and LED fans were formerly popular, the community now wants RGB, a covered power supply unit slot, and glass side windows. Nonetheless, whether building a computer for $500 or $5,000, every PC enthusiast faces the same challenge.
Many components in the PC require power or data and are thus either installed on the mainboard or connected to it via cable. While this works reasonably well with the processor, NVMe SSD, and RAM, issues arise when attaching the front I/O, an AIO cooling system, and standard hard drives.
These components necessitate the use of small, occasionally colored cables that may be routed neatly while remaining visible. Although special wires that match the chosen color scheme can be ordered for a high price, this only works to a limited extent and only improves the visible areas.
As a result, MSI has now teased its own solution to this first-world problem. A new member of the Unify series for enthusiasts is hidden behind the designation "Project Zero."
It is powered by Intel's Z690-PCH and has few ports on the front. These sit at right angles on the rear and should provide a more pleasing look. The issue is that very few cases have enough area for back connectors, let alone stacked SATA ports.
As a result, MSI will most likely sell the mainboard as a DIY kit, complete with a casing and potentially other color-coordinated components.
In terms of appearance and performance, for example, the in-house Coreliquid S360-AIO complements the corresponding Alder Lake CPU flawlessly and constitutes a practical cooling solution.
Other compatible components could follow during Computex, where MSI will most likely release further details regarding Project Zero.
