Stefan Mileschin

DirectCU II on the GTX 680 allows for 20% more effective cooling while remaining 14dB quieter than stock solutions, while the increased dissipation keeps temps significantly lower at higher speeds and voltages; hence, more headroom for your GPU. Large video cards are very susceptible to microfracturing due to their large size and nature of install, but ASUS combats this in several ways. The GTX 680 DirectCU II TOP features a metal backplate covering the entire back of the circuit board to almost completely nullify any possible flex. The board, itself, uses a process for higher strength with less flexibility, as well as a dual bracing system to reinforce even further around the GPU area and VRM, which is most critical.

http://www.hitechlegion.com/reviews/...eo-card-review