Customs logistics data from NBD reveals that motherboard manufacturers are currently testing and validating hardware for Intel's upcoming Nova Lake desktop processor platform. ASRock has reportedly submitted five distinct Z990 motherboard models for shipping, signaling active preparation for the new architecture.
The new Intel LGA1954 socket will support two high-end chipsets: the flagship Z990 and the more affordable Z970. The Z990 chipset offers full support for base clock adjustments, multiplier overclocking, and extensive USB connectivity. In contrast, the Z970 model retains multiplier overclocking but limits base clock adjustments and external expansion channels to reduce costs.
Intel has confirmed that the Nova Lake architecture will prioritize the desktop consumer market. The processors are expected to feature up to 52 compute cores and will be the first desktop chips from Intel to integrate a large last-level cache, positioning them as a direct competitor to AMD's 3D V-Cache technology.
Technical specifications indicate that Z990 motherboards will feature three 8-pin CPU power connectors to handle the high power requirements of Nova Lake dual-chip models, which may reach a PL2 power consumption of 474W. The Z990 chipset itself is reported to have a peak power consumption of 14W.
