Solid basis with layout mistakes: On the Aopen AK72 the power supply connector is too close to the CPU slot. The result: it prohibits using larger heat sinks or fans. Exemplary: The very strong controller.

The AK72 from Aopen is one of the largest candidates in the test field. The packaging of the board is rather average, but it is shipped with an additional cable for two more USB interfaces. A large, colored brochure informs briefly and succinctly about the most important connectors and settings. This clearly differentiates Aopen from the competition: Due to the good description and the colored figures, even the less knowledgeable user can quickly install the board. A strong controller with a total of six circuit transistors allows stable operation. The board is equipped with five PCI slots and one ISA slot. Quite sensibly the manufacturer left out the AMR slot, which is of less interest in this price class anyway.