Gigabyte Driver Update Brings iPad Charging To Existing Motherboards

Now isn't this something! Gigabyte has shown an ability to adapt and innovate quickly, and this product is no different. Now, it has reached out to address a nagging issue that is plaguing many iPad owners that primarily use PCs. If you haven't heard, Apple's new iPad requires a 10W USB charging output; most PCs don't output that much power over USB, and only select Macs do. This means that users are having to carry around the iPad AC adapter everywhere they go, making the tablet a little bit less portable in reality.


Gigabyte has seen fit to address the issue, announcing today that their full range of Intel chipset-based X58, P55, H55, H57 motherboards as well as current and upcoming AMD 800 chipset series motherboards all allow charging of Apple's iPad, both when it's powered on and off. The company's unique USB design allows it to deliver more than the 500mA delivered from typical USB ports, and a simple On/Off Charge driver update can bring the functionality to existing boards.

So if you purchased one of these boards lately, and you've got an iPad, well, you're in luck! Look below for the drive download link.

Over 40 GIGABYTE Motherboard Models Supply Sufficient Power to Charge an iPad While It Is Being Used

TAIPEI, Taiwan – April 12, 2010 – GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co., Ltd, a leading manufacturer of motherboards, graphics cards and other computing hardware solutions today proudly announced their full range of Intel chipset-based X58, P55, H55, H57 as well as current and upcoming AMD 800 chipset series motherboards all allow charging of Apple’s latest hot selling iPad while the device is in use (on) and also when not in use (off).

Recent industry and news reports indicate that USB ports on most Windows PCs are unable to provide enough power to charge the new iPad while the device is in operation due to differences between motherboard USB power output and the device’s charging specifications. However, GIGABYTE’s unique USB power design is able to deliver extra power for devices that require more than the 500mA delivered from a traditional USB port. With a simple On/Off Charge driver update which can be found on the GIGABYTE website, GIGABYTE motherboard users are able to take full advantage of USB charging of their iPad, giving them more options and convenience when recharging their new device.

To download the GIGABYTE On/Off Charge driver, please visit the GIGABYTE website at: http://www.gigabyte.com.tw/Support/Motherboard/Utility_List.aspx.

About GIGABYTE Upgrade Your Life

GIGABYTE, headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, is known as a global leading brand in the IT industry, with employees and business channels in almost every country. Founded in 1986, GIGABYTE started as a research and development team and has since taken the lead in the world's motherboard market. On top of motherboards and graphics accelerators, GIGABYTE further expanded its product portfolio to include notebook and desktop PCs, digital home entertainment appliances, networking servers, communications, mobile and handheld devices, servicing every facet of people's lives at home or business. Everyday GIGABYTE aims to “Upgrade Your Life” with the most innovative designs and impeccable quality and services. Visit www.gigabyte.com.tw for more information.