I have the 845 Ultra ARU version, which also includes the NEC USB2.0 controllers. This is really a nice motherboard, with tons of features.

It supports Pentium 4 Socket 478, and the new 0.13 micron CPU (Northwood) work well with it. It supports DDR266 (PC2100) memory up to 2 gig.

Ultra ATA133 is supported through the integrated Promise ATA133 Raid controller.

Other features includes:
- 4 USB1.1 port, and 4 USB 2.0 ports for a total of 8 USB ports. USB brackets are provided in the retail box.
- CMedia 6 channel soundchip
- Temperature Monitoring of CPU and Chassis
- Live Bios and Driver Update
- D-bracket for debugging purpose. The combinations of 4 LEDs gives you problem like memory failure etc.
- Great manual, really detailed

Hardware installation was a breeze. Everything fit well.

Software installation wise, I was worry about the Maxtor ATA133 harddrive that are attached to the Raid Controller will not recognized, but no such problem. With a bootable Win2k CDROM, I was ready to start OS installation in no time.

The PC Alert software that came with the box allows me to monitor the CPU and Chassis temperature, which is a really nice bonus.

The only problem I have is sound corruption problem when playing Pro Pinballs on Win2k. Not sure whether it is the problem of the soundchip or related to Win2k.

Overall, this is a very nice board. It have received great reviews in many MB review sites for its features and stability.

Some boards from ASUS and Soyo have built in LAN, 6 PCI and Firewire (Soyo). But the MSI is cheaper.

It has been a very pleasant experience for me working with this board.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 130