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The big picture: First announced at Computex in 2023, MSI's Project Zero motherboard line introduces a revolutionary approach to PC cable management, relocating all the usual front-facing connectors to the rear of the PCB. This design allows for a cleaner, unobstructed build and improved airflow. Now, with new chipsets from Intel and AMD on the horizon, MSI is expanding the reach of Project Zero.
MSI plans to launch five new Project Zero motherboards, spanning Intel's upcoming Arrow Lake and AMD's latest AM5 platforms. Three models will target Intel's next-gen chipsets, such as the Z890, while two boards are slated for release on the AMD side.
Previous Project Zero offerings include the B650M Project Zero for AMD systems, focusing on modularity and enhanced connectivity. On the Intel side, boards such as the Z790 Project Zero and B760M Project Zero were designed to meet high-performance computing demands.
With the new models, the core proposition remains the same – every cable connector, from power to SATA, USB, and fan headers, is routed to the rear of the board. This design enables a clean, minimalist aesthetic with zero visible cabling. Improved thermal performance is another benefit, as unobstructed airflow across the board's surface enhances cooling.
However, rear cable routing brings its own installation challenges. A chassis designed to accommodate the reversed layout is essential. To address this, MSI will offer a new full-ATX model called the MAG Pano 110R PZ, featuring 270-degree tempered glass panels to showcase the clutter-free interior. This will complement the existing mATX Pano 100R PZ model.
Previous Project Zero boards spanned both ATX and mATX sizes, so a similar lineup is expected this time. However, MSI has yet to reveal specifics, such as exact model names or chipset coverage.
It's also worth noting that Corsair offers Project Zero-compatible cases in both ATX and mATX sizes as well, so we can likely expect more models to accompany MSI's 110R PZ case soon.
Beyond compatibility, there's the challenge of managing graphics card power cables, which still need to be routed from the front or side. Currently, the 8- or 16-pin cables remain visible. It would be a welcome improvement if MSI could devise a way to conceal these cables as well.
Image credit: Cowcotland