Intel has revealed that it will launch its self-branded Z77 "Panther Point" chipset motherboards based on Socket LGA 1155 on Sunday, April 8th, according to sources from motherboard manufacturers.

The company's Z77 boards are compatible with upcoming 22nm Ivy Bridge mainstream processors on Socket LGA 1155 and bring native support for up to four (4) USB 3.0 ports, up to six (6) SATA III 6Gbps ports and support for powering up to three independent displays straight from the motherboard with an Ivy Bridge CPU.



So far, Intel has unveiled its own flagship Z77 and midrange H77 motherboards, including the DZ77GA-70K, DZ77BH-55K and DH77KC. Unfortunately, none of these models come with Thunderbolt ports, but some motherboard vendors are adding Thunderbolt technology to their high-end products to boost marketing attraction.

Intel will formally announce its Z77, H77, Z75 and B75 chipsets on April 8 with wholesale prices of $48, $43, $40 and $37 USD respectively, and will subsequently launch Q77 and Q75 chipsets at $44 and $40 USD next month on Friday, May 13th.