Gigabyte Ultra Durable VGA Features

The features on this page comprise the basis for the Ultra Durable VGA classification that Gigabyte uses to label its newer graphics cards. All told, this combination of premium components is said to increase overclocking capability by 10-30%, decrease power switching loss by 10-30%, and reduce GPU temperatures by 5-10%.

2 oz. Copper PCB

By doubling the amount of copper that goes into construction of the circuit board (most use 1 oz. of copper), Gigabyte drastically increases its thermal conductivity. This results in more efficient heat dissipation, and so reduces the overall temperature of all components, particularly around the GPU. In general, less heat correlates to greater life expectancy in electrical components, so improved longevity is another effect.

Tier 1 Samsung or Hynix Memory

Gigabyte uses only the highest quality Samsung and Hynix memory in its Ultra Durable VGA products. (This particular HD 5830 board uses Hynix, but we’re unsure whether it varies between models or batches, etc.) These chips are fully tested to ensure the highest level of performance and reliability.

Japanese Solid Capacitors

The solid capacitors Gigabyte uses in their video cards and motherboards have two distinct advantages over the cheaper electrolytic ones. First, the organic polymer used in solid capacitors is a much better conductor than a liquid electrolyte, and better electric conductivity increases efficiency. Also, these high quality solid capacitors from leading Japanese manufacturers are rated to last through more than 5 years of constant use at 85° C, which is much longer than even other solid capacitors last.

Ferrite Core Chokes

Ultra Durable VGA chokes are made out of an iron-oxide compound, rather than plain iron. This enhances their capabilities as inductors (storing energy and regulating current) to reduce core energy loss. Additionally, the mixed composition of the ferrite core resists rust much better than iron does on its own. This is advantageous to users in humid climates because it means the graphics card won’t degrade so prematurely due to rust damage.

Lower RDS(on) of MOSFET

A MOSFET is an electrical switch built into the circuitry of the graphics card, which allows or disallows current to flow through it. In using the more expensive Low RDS(on) variety of MOSFET, less power is consumed when the switching occurs. This means the switching process is faster and there is less heat generated, as well, contributing to an even lower overall board temperature.