3rd generation Intel Core processors are based on the 3rd generation Intel Core processor architecture, manufactured using the latest 22nm process to create a visually optimized processor platform. Based on the mature LGA 1155 socket, 3rd generation Intel Core processors feature up to four high performance 64 bit processor cores & 8MB of L3 cache Smart Cache, & overall performance when you need it most. GIGABYTE 7 series motherboards take advantage of the latest connectivity & expansion bus technologies available on the Intel platform. The 3rd generation Intel Core processor platform debuts the new PCI Express gen. 3. 0 expansion bus, allowing users to take advantage of the next generation, high bandwidth discrete graphics card solutions. Intel Rapid Start Technology gets your device up & running faster from even the deepest sleep. This means users will be able to experience almost zero power draw from their PC, but be able to resume Windows 7 is a few seconds without having the PC go through a full system boot. With Intel Rapid Start Technology the previous session resumes to the exact as it was, so that applications are still in the same state & no application data is lost. Intel Smart Connect Technology means that your email, favourite apps, & social networks are continually & automatically updated even when the system is asleep. No more waiting for the latest world news or friends updates to be delivered just press the on button & youre up to date & ready to go. GIGABYTE 7 series motherboards feature an on-board m SATA slot allowing users to easily take advantage of advanced SSD based technologies like Intel Smart Response & Intel Rapid Start. Mounting an affordable, low capacity m SATA SSD directly onto your motherboard can enhance your PCs performance with better overall desktop responsiveness, faster boot times & faster system resume from Suspend to Disk & Standby modes.