ASRock N7AD-SLI Socket 775 nForce 740 SLI Motherboard

Conclusions
It was unfortunate that I didn’t get to try the N7AD-SLI in SLI, as that is one of the purposes of this motherboard, a platform for an economy SLI rig.

Regardless, the N7AD-SLI turned out to be a good all-around motherboard, performing similar to other late Socket 775 motherboards. It overclocked well, and would have gone even higher if I had pushed it. The small footprint makes the board fit a little better in a midtower, and there are minimum concessions made for the small footprint, only the internal USB ports are in a unlikely location. The BIOS was easy to use, as are all ASRock BIOS.

The only thing I really found not to like about the board is the location of the CPU socket, about 1″ closer to the edge of the board than most. It caused a problem with my 120mm cooler, but the 92mm fit fine. Just be aware that if you use a larger cooler there may be a conflict.

I couldn’t find the N7AD-SLI for sale in the states, but I understand it will be in the $100 range. Anything under $120 will be considered a value. ThinkComputers.org awards the ASRock N7AD-SLI 740i Motherboard an 8 out of 10 score.

rating8 10 small

Pros:
– Budget-priced SLI board
– Full Featured

Cons:
– CPU socket location interferes with large CPU coolers
– Internal USB ports not conducive to cable management