With the release of the new generation platforms based on Intel LGA775 CPU, motherboard makers had to develop new technologies to meet Intel's requirements. The cooling solutions for motherboard components have become an important consideration. Just like the CPU and the north bridge on a motherboard, the MOS is a source of heat that needs to be cooled in a good way. MSI has undertaken numerous tests and experiments to develop MSI Active MOS Technology, an advanced cooling technology for the MOS. The MOS on a motherboard regulates and provides the power for the CPU. Unlike the conventional MOS - which delivers the heat to the PCB - MSI Active MOS Technology delivers the heat to an aluminum heat sink. This unique way of cooling prolongs the lifecycle of the components because of a lower constant temperature.

Unlike other motherboard makers who add extra components and make higher costs, MSI's simple concept not only lowers the temperature of the MOS, but also prolongs the lifecycle of other electronic components on a motherboard. The excellent cooling prolongs the lifecycle of MSI motherboards like MSI 915G Neo2-platinum, MSI 915P Neo2-platinum and MSI 925X Neo, and enhances the overclocking ability and stability as well. MSI Active MOS Technology will also be implemented in the coming generation motherboards.

The Advantages of Active MOS

1. Prolonged Life Span of Capacitors

Capacitors are the most important motherboard components. The temperature of these components should be controlled and their lifecycle prolonged. Take the most commonly used formula L=Lo*2^(105-T)/10) for example, if the temperature can be lowered by 10 degree (Celsius), the life span of a capacitor can be prolonged double. MSI Active MOS Technology helps to effectively lower the temperature of the capacitors.

2. Easy Concept & Easy Technology

MSI Active MOS Technology is not a complicated technology. It's in fact a smart concept switch. By using MSI's exclusive heat sink DIP technology, MSI Active MOS Technology can be applied into all product lines.

3. No Extra Cost

Adding a heat sink on the MOS is now standard procedure for most MSI motherboard products. The advantage of MSI Active MOS Technology is that it dissipates 80% of the heat to the heat sink at no extra costs. Other motherboard manufacturers tried to use many other ways to reduce heat, including a heat conduction tube, an extra fan or aluminum on PCB. The costs of these expensive solutions will be passed on to the consumers eventually.

How does Active MOS Work?

Traditionally MOS' metal part is directly located on the PCB, since it makes use of PCB's circuit to lower its temperature. This is the passive way. MSI, however, broke this tradition by using the reverse method of MSI Active MOS Technology instead. We turned over the metal to integrate it with the heat sink. Through the heat sink and airflow of the CPU fan, the heat generated by MOS and other components is effectively reduced to prolong their life span.