Strong showing by exclusive ASUS features such as DIGI+ VRM, EFI BIOS and BT GO! marks the arrival of updated Asus P67-based motherboards.
ASUS P67-based B3 revision models feature second-generation Dual Intelligent Processors 2 architecture, reinforced with DIGI+ VRM digital power controls, which incorporate digital voltage regulation to eliminate the latency associated with analog-to-digital power conversion. This gives users control over the fine-tuning of their PC with the ease of a natively digital design. Overclocking becomes effortless, offering entry-level users the option of Auto Tuning, made available through a software interface and a simple onboard switch.
The exclusive ASUS EFI BIOS provides users with a graphical interface for control over both basic and advanced BIOS settings with mouse input. Changing system settings becomes more accessible and much easier than with traditional text-based BIOS versions, as users can choose between different levels of tuning, from EZ Mode for basic settings to complete system supervision via Advanced Mode.
BT GO! offers another ASUS exclusive feature, combining seven Bluetooth modes in one interface. With users operating more and more wireless devices and requiring seamless integration via PC, ASUS has crafted BT GO! to meet this demand right on the motherboard, placing it at the heart of the system ― no additional adapters required. All B3 revision models ship with BT GO!
The ASUS TUF SABERTOOTH P67 motherboard was created to offer a new generation of durability and reliability, debuting the first thermal protection for the entire motherboard ― the exclusive ASUS Thermal Armor. The design also uses an internal shunt for better airflow, improved cooling and greater stability. ASUS has further developed the exclusive 12-sensor Thermal Radar to monitor actual temperatures and help with fan speed adjustments.
On 31 January 2011, Intel announced that it had detected a design error in its new P67 chipset as part of routine quality checks. In accordance with its own quality assurance procedures, ASUS immediately suspended the shipment of all affected products across its distribution and retail channels. The company began shipping new and updated B3 revision Intel 6 series-based motherboards in late February. ASUS also announced a refund or replacement program for all affected products. As Intel indicated the design error only occurs with certain SATA 3Gb/s ports, ASUS also created an online tutorial to help users identify all unaffected SATA 6Gb/s ports for each relevant product. This information can be found at http://event.asus.com/2011/mb/Identify_unaffected_SATA_port/.