ESA architecture submitted to USB-if

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A coalition of computer and component manufacturers have released details of Enthusiast System Architecture (ESA), which will allow PC and gaming enthusiasts build faster and cooler machines.

The coalition includes Nvidia, Dell, HP, Alienware, Falcon Northwest, CoolerMaster and Thermaltake.

The ESA standard has been submitted to the USB-if for discussion and ratification.

The new, open and royalty-free standard specifies an information protocol which allows components to ‘communicate’ with each other.

It allows PC enthusiasts to monitor the operating parameters of components such as PC power supplies, chassis, and water-cooling systems in real-time.

System information is relayed back to the user so that the PC can be fine-tuned to enhance performance.

The architecture will allow users to maximise air or water flow, check for hot spots in a system, and ensure that a PSU is in proper working order.

ESA will also provide motherboard manufacturers with a standard for implementing board-level monitoring and tweaking software.

Currently there isn’t one software solution which provides accurate information for all boards across multiple chipsets. ESA is designed to address this problem.