MSI is making waves in the PC hardware world with an innovative new product – the Z790 Project Zero Plus motherboard that supports the emerging CAMM2 memory standard. Let’s look deeper at this thrilling development and what it could mean for desktop PCs.
A Peek at the Future: MSI’s Partnership with Kingston
In partnership with memory manufacturer Kingston, MSI has developed what they are touting as the “world’s first” motherboard for desktop PCs to support CAMM2 memory. Shown off initially via a teaser image, the Z790 Project Zero Plus will be unveiled at the upcoming Computex event next month.
With its sleek black and silver styling, this board promises to excite PC enthusiasts and technology fans alike with its embracing of new frontiers.
What is CAMM2 Memory?
Before diving into MSI’s new product, let’s first discuss the CAMM2 standard in more detail. CAMM2 stands for “Compression Attached Memory Modules 2” and aims to replace the long-standing SO-DIMM form factor that’s been a mainstay in laptops for decades.
By merging dual-channel capabilities into a single module, CAMM2 modules are up to 64% smaller than typical DDR5 SO-DIMM configurations while still saturating today’s CPUs’ 128-bit memory buses.
Another critical benefit of CAMM2 is its compatibility with both standard DDR5 and faster LPDDR5X memory types. With the latest CAMM2 LPDDR5X modules rated as high as an incredible 7,500MT/s, this new standard is no slouch!
A New Frontier for Desktop PCs
While CAMM2 was initially envisioned for laptops where space is ultra-premium, seeing it implemented in a desktop motherboard like MSI’s Z790 Project Zero Plus board is a surprising development. On the surface, the size benefits of CAMM2 may seem less impactful for larger desktop chassis.
However, there are still noteworthy advantages. Installing memory via a single horizontally mounted CAMM2 module leaves more room above and below for improved processor and cooling heatsink clearance.
It also opens up possibilities for a novel, slimmer, small-form-factor desktop designs where compact dimensions are critical. Early adopters will delight in exploring the uncharted territory of CAMM2 memory on capable overclocking motherboards like MSI’s new niche offering.
Image Source: MSI Gaming
Exciting Memory Performance Potential
Powered by Kingston’s Fury Impact CAMM2 module, the Z790 Project Zero Plus gives an intriguing first glimpse at how this memory type performs out of a laptop and in a full-fledged desktop environment.
While initially only supporting baseline DDR5 speeds, this modular is primed to unleash its full potential once overclockers get their hands on it. With the proper tuning and profiles, frequencies approaching LPDDR5X levels could be within reach.
That would certainly make desktop CAMM2 memory a compelling proposition for performance aficionados seeking an edge. It will be fascinating to monitor the development and testing of this motherboard to see just how much headroom CAMM2 has on the desktop platform. Exciting times may yet be ahead!
A Pioneer Board for Enthusiasts and Adventurers
In summary, while MSI’s new Project Zero Plus motherboard serves more as proof-of-concept than a mainstream consumer product at this early CAMM2 adoption phase, it heralds promising potential. Forward-looking builders seeking an edge will surely appreciate being early adopters experimenting with the burgeoning CAMM2 memory avenue.
Kudos to MSI for partnering with Kingston to develop and showcase this pioneering platform, which could help catalyze wider CAMM2 deployment across PC form factors in the future. With innovations like these stretching the boundaries of what’s possible, the future remains bright for desktop hardware progression.
One day, mainstream motherboards will embrace modules like CAMM2 to break performance barriers and fuel the ongoing evolution of personal computers. For now, it’s exciting to witness the initial steps toward that future in MSI’s groundbreaking venture.
