(Credit: MSI)
Component updates and evolutions aren't always about performance and capacity upgrades; sometimes, quality-of-life improvements can make a real difference. In the case of MSI's new PinSafe technology, it has developed a method for soldering its motherboards that reduces pin length and flattens solder on the rear of the boards.
As VideoCardz reports, this reduces material usage, making the boards cheaper to produce, and also has the nice-to-have benefit of making the underside of the motherboards far less sharp, hopefully leading to fewer nicked fingers.
(Credit: MSI)In frustration, I once punched out a 5.25-inch drive-bay cover from the inside of a cheap aluminum case, earning a lifelong scar on my thumb for my trouble. Anyone who's worked with DIY PCs long enough has sliced themselves on something. I can't say I've ever cut myself on a motherboard, but those pins on the back can be sharp, and I have definitely scraped myself against them numerous times. MSI's design could make that a thing of the past if it catches on.
It may even help improve system stability. MSI claims the process uses the reflow soldering method with more precise solder control, delivering "uniform solder joints, minimizes voids, and guarantees more stable conductivity." It also incorporates solder pads with the solder mask, which minimizes exposure and risk of oxidation. MSI claims this can result in improved motherboard lifespan and better overall signal quality.
MSI claims boards using PinSafe have passed EMC testing while maintaining signal quality and effective grounding, in a manner similar to traditional designs. Physical connectors, like USB headers, are also strong enough for general use, even with reduced solder and pin material. You can get your own first-hand look at PinSafe technology with the MSI MPG X870E Carbon Maz Wifi, which is already on sale.
(Credit: MSI)It's not super important considering we're discussing the backside of the motherboard, but I think the flattened pin design looks more premium and modern, too. It's a neat way to help MSI's motherboards stand out, and it likely uses less material in a way that will be materially noticeable across the millions of motherboards MSI sells every year. Even if it is restricted to its high-end models that command a price premium.