14 DAY TRIAL // Graphics cards have been coming out one after another over the past few days, following AMD's introduction of the Radeon HD 5450. Still, in this case, the new release is not another HD 5450 incarnation but a card based on the Radeon HD 5770. The new hardware released by Micro-Star International is a video accelerator that is optimized for high performance while keeping “an astounding C/P value.”
MSI's Lightning graphics card series is known for its use of military-grade components and high-end performance. The R5770 Hawk that the company has released continues that tradition while offering both enthusiasts and those on a budget a device that merges stability, performance and low-temperature. Compared with the reference card, the Hawk boasts a more stable 7+1-phase power supply, which enables an overclocking ability improvement by providing more power to the GPU and memory. Specifically, the card can be overclocked by up to 20%.
The DirectX-capable card features 800 stream processors and 1GB of GDDR5 with a memory bandwidth of 128 bits and a clock frequency of 4800MHz. In addition, the graphics processing unit (GPU) runs at 850MHz. The card has DVI, HDMI and DisplayPort outputs for Eyefinity, as well as CrossFireX support.
In order to improve reliability and lifespan, the model is designed with military-grade components, such as Hi-c CAP, solid state capacitors, and solid state inductors. Not only that, but the Twin Frozr II cooling mechanism lowers temperatures by up to 13 degrees compared with the reference card. As such, the risk of overheating is kept in check while the 7+1-phase power supply provides 100% more energy for overclocking purposes. The card even has built-in voltage measurement points.
For insight into the card's actual capabilities, end-users may read the review published here. The device will be made available sometime during the coming weeks and will sport a price tag of slightly under $200.