Unleash the Power of the ASRock X86 Board: 12 Core CPU for Unmatched Performance

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Overview of the ASRock X86 Board
3. Specifications of the ASRock X86 Board
4. Assembly and Setup of the ASRock X86 Board
5. Performance testing and Benchmark Results
6. Gaming on the ASRock X86 Board
7. Emulation Capabilities of the ASRock X86 Board
8. Upgrading the Graphics Performance of the ASRock X86 Board
9. Comparison with Ryzen Variants
10. Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Introduction

Hey, what's up, everybody? It's eta,prime back here again. Today, we're going to take a closer look at an amazing little x86 board. This board, manufactured by ASRock's industrial division, packs a punch with its 12 cores and 16 Threads powered by an i7 1260p processor. In this article, we will dive deeper into the features, performance, and capabilities of this board. So, if you're interested in exploring this board further, keep reading. Let's get started!

Overview of the ASRock X86 Board

The ASRock X86 Board is a compact and powerful single board computer that offers a range of features and capabilities. Designed for industrial applications, this board boasts 12 cores and 16 threads, thanks to its i7 1260p processor. Although it falls into the category of single board computers, it requires the user to add their own RAM and storage. Despite this, it offers great potential for various projects and applications. With support for Thunderbolt 4 and the option to connect an external GPU, this board provides a versatile solution for those seeking high-performance computing.

Specifications of the ASRock X86 Board

Before we delve deeper into the capabilities of the ASRock X86 Board, let's take a look at its specifications. Powered by the Intel Alder Lake i7 1260p processor, this board features 12 cores and 16 threads. It offers four performance cores with a max clock speed of up to 4.7 GHz and eight efficiency cores with a max clock speed of up to 3.4 GHz. The board operates at a locked 35-watt TDP, providing a balance between performance and power efficiency. In terms of ports, it includes a gigabit Ethernet port and a 2.5-gigabit Ethernet port on the rear, while the front features two USB Type-C ports and a full-size HDMI port.

Assembly and Setup of the ASRock X86 Board

Setting up the ASRock X86 Board is a relatively straightforward process. The bare-bones unit includes the board itself, a 90-watt power supply, a user manual, and a screw for an M.2 drive. To complete the assembly, you will need to add your own RAM and storage. In this case, we opted for 32 gigabytes of DDR4 running at 3200 megahertz and a 512-gigabyte M.2 drive. Additionally, you have the option to add Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as the board provides a dedicated slot for these functionalities. However, if you prefer a wired connection, the board already features a gigabit Ethernet port and a 2.5-gigabit Ethernet port on the rear. Once you've gathered all the necessary components, assembling the board is as simple as installing the RAM and storage devices. If desired, adding standoffs can help elevate the board off the desk for better airflow.

Performance Testing and Benchmark Results

When it comes to performance, the ASRock X86 Board proves to be a formidable contender. Equipped with the i7 1260p processor, it delivers robust CPU performance, especially in tasks such as emulation and video editing. Although the board operates at a locked 35-watt TDP, it still manages to offer impressive results. Running Geekbench 5, we obtained a single-core score of 1245 and a multi-core score of 7225. While these scores may be lower compared to systems with higher TDPs, they are still commendable considering the board's compact form factor. Additionally, running 3DMark Night Raid yielded a score of 15,236, showcasing the capabilities of the integrated Iris Xe graphics.

Gaming on the ASRock X86 Board

One of the exciting aspects of the ASRock X86 Board is its gaming potential. With the integrated Iris Xe graphics, the board allows for gaming at respectable settings and resolutions. For instance, running Forza Horizon 5 at 720p on low settings, we achieved an average framerate of 67 FPS. While this may not be ideal for high-end gaming, it provides an enjoyable experience for casual gamers. It's worth noting that the performance can be further improved by connecting an external GPU through the Thunderbolt 4 port, providing users with the opportunity to enhance their gaming experience.

Emulation Capabilities of the ASRock X86 Board

Emulation enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the ASRock X86 Board excels in this department. Thanks to its powerful i7 1260p processor and integrated graphics, the board is capable of running various emulators with ease. From PlayStation 2 and Wii U to GameCube and Wii, this board makes it possible to enjoy a wide range of retro and modern gaming titles. With proper configuration, smooth gameplay can be achieved even at higher resolutions. Whether you're a fan of classic console games or interested in exploring new titles, the ASRock X86 Board has you covered.

Upgrading the Graphics Performance of the ASRock X86 Board

While the integrated Iris Xe graphics on the ASRock X86 Board are impressive, it's understandable that some users may desire more graphical prowess. Fortunately, this board comes equipped with Thunderbolt 4, enabling users to connect an external GPU for enhanced gaming and graphics performance. By plugging in an eGPU enclosure with a dedicated graphics card, such as an RTX 3060, users can significantly boost the graphical capabilities of the board. This offers the flexibility to enjoy high-quality visuals and improved gaming experiences, making the ASRock X86 Board a versatile solution for both casual and demanding gamers.

Comparison with Ryzen Variants

Although the ASRock X86 Board we've been discussing features an Intel processor, it's worth mentioning that ASRock also offers Ryzen variants. These boards utilize AMD's powerful Ryzen processors, providing an alternative for those who prefer AMD technology. Whether you opt for the Intel or Ryzen variant, both options offer impressive performance and gaming capabilities. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific requirements and preferences, as both options have their unique advantages.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In conclusion, the ASRock X86 Board stands out as a powerful and compact single board computer that offers impressive performance for its size. With its 12 cores, 16 threads, and integrated Iris Xe graphics, the board excels in tasks such as emulation, video editing, and casual gaming. While it may not compete with high-end gaming rigs, it provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for those seeking a compact yet capable system. The option to connect an external GPU further expands its potential, allowing users to enjoy more demanding games and graphics-intensive tasks. Whether you're a hobbyist, a tech enthusiast, or an industrial user, the ASRock X86 Board offers a versatile platform with an excellent balance of performance and power efficiency.

Highlights:

• Powerful and compact single board computer
• 12 cores and 16 threads for enhanced performance
• Integrated Iris Xe graphics for gaming and multimedia tasks
• Support for Thunderbolt 4 and external GPU connectivity
• Excellent emulation capabilities for retro and modern gaming
• Upgradable components for customization and future-proofing

FAQ

Q: Can I add Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to the ASRock X86 Board? A: Yes, the board provides a dedicated slot for adding Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functionality.

Q: Can I connect an external GPU to the ASRock X86 Board? A: Yes, the board features Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, allowing you to connect an external GPU for improved graphics performance.

Q: Does the ASRock X86 Board support DDR5 RAM? A: No, the board supports DDR4 RAM with a maximum speed of 3200 megahertz.

Q: What operating systems are compatible with the ASRock X86 Board? A: The board supports various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.

Q: Is the ASRock X86 Board suitable for industrial applications? A: Yes, the board is designed for industrial use and offers robust performance and reliability.

Resources:

• ASRock Industrial Website