Motherboard and Chip Set

For our purposes, the feature that stands out the most is Asus Express Gate, which utilizes Splashtop, a Linux environment integrated into the motherboard.  Splashtop technology enables users to turn on their computers and in 5 seconds be able to access the Internet using Firefox or use online applications such as e-mail, Skype and the Splashtop desktop without having to wait for the operating system to load. Express Gate with Splashtop proves to be the best path to instant-on capabilities available today.

We found the documentation and packaging of the board to be excellent, well beyond our expectations. Worth noting is Asus' attention to detail, which makes installing and configuring the motherboard a much easier task than one typically expects.

The board includes a labeled, insulated back plate that fits into most any ATX case, while included connector adaptors (called QConnectors) make the chore of connecting the various cables from the case a much simpler task.

Users will appreciate the multiple monitor connectors, which support HDMI, DVI (Digital Video Interactive) and VGA right on the back of the PC. The board is well labeled and finding where components and cables connect is a simple task. Asus follows along the green theme by adhering to RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance. System builders will appreciate the quality and many features of the M3A78-T, all of which will make assembly and support a much easier task.