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Elitegroup Computer Systems recently announced the availability of its new SocketA Athlon motherboard, the K7VZA. Sporting VIA's powerful KT-133 chipset, the K7VZA features an impressive array of options with reliable operational features. With its well-implemented design and proven marketing approach, ECS hopes to break into the extremely competitive Athlon computing market with this motherboard.

Features

Being based on the popular VIA KT-133 chipset, the K7VZA is able to support a multitude of advanced hardware capabilities. As expected, features include support for 1.5GB of system memory, an AGP v2.0 4x graphics port, an onboard ATA/66 IDE drive controller, and integrated AC'97 PCI sound. The only detraction is the inclusion of the rather unpopular audio/modem riser slot. OEMs and system integrators generally favor the AMR slot to lower costs, but those purchasing motherboard at the retail level rarely need AMR devices. As hardware options goes, this offering conforms to the standard KT-133 motherboard specifications.

However, the K7VZA offers several positive architectural design characteristics. ECS's fabrication techniques meet and even exceed the rigorous ISO 9002 industry standard. The board itself is built upon a good quality four layer PCB. The metal handle on the processor socket is a nice touch, as most current boards use the poorer quality plastic handle. Also, accessing the various jumper sets can be done with minimal annoyance.

In contrast, the K7VZA's overall physical design does raise a few potential concerns, especially for those interested in overclocking or cooling in general. The ATX power header is positioned below the processor socket, which could be a serious issue for those with large heatsink fans. The power header could block the efficient flow of air required by these higher-powered cooling solutions. Also, the placement of the main processor related capacitors could prove problematic for those who wish to utilize larger heatsinks. Popular coolers that are too large for the K7VZA include: the ChromeORB, the SuperORB, and possibly the Copper Hedgehog.