Test System

Initial Setup

I did not run into any issues when first setting up the Biostar TZ77XE4. I installed the CPU, memory and VGA, installed Windows, and once in Windows and all drivers were installed, updated the BIOS using the provided tool in Windows. The Biostar TZ77XE4 had no issues with my G.SKill 8 GB kit, and uses the default Intel Turbo profile.

PWM Power Consumption

Since one of our first tasks was to truly verify system stability, while doing so we measure CPU power consumption. We isolate the power coming through the 8-pin ATX connector using an in-line meter that provides voltage and current readings, as well as total wattage passed through it. While this may not prove to isolate the CPU power draw in all instances, it does serve as a good indicator of board efficiency and effective VRM design.


I was very impressed with the idle power consumption via the CPU's EPS 8-pin connector. I noticed just three Watts drawn at idle, but at the same time, I noticed that when the board went to sleep mode, power consumption increased to six Watts. Under load, power consumption was a bit higher than expected, but still lower than the Gigabyte G1.Sniper M3.