Packaging
The 580 Classified comes packaged appropriately in an all-black box, with minimal text or graphics on the front of the box. The essentials are there: brand name, model name, and even a few fine-print features such as 3702MN of RAM along the top. This is the kind of packaging that stands out on a shelf because of its simplicity, likely to be neighboring flashier competitors.
The back of the packaging reveals much more about the product, including a nice shot of the card, key features, and a brief introduction. The left side easily confirms compatibility with a sketch of the output slot showing off the dual DVI ports and EVGA's EVBot overclocking tool port.
Breaking the seal on the side of the box, you will be greeted the tail end of a foam block and a smaller accessories box. You will also note a sticker explaining that EVGA offers customer service on their products, as opposed to returning the product to the place of purchase.
Closer examination of the foam piece will reveal that it is not only a cushion, but housing the GTX 580 within. The card is accessible via a cut-out in roughly the same shape as the card. EVGA has wrapped and sealed the 580 within an anti-static bag to prevent any sort of static that may discharge during the cozy ride home.
You will also find a bright, yellow warning insert that foreshadows the unique power situation the Classified GTX 580 is equipped with.
The slim accessories box opens to reveal several components, most of which are individually wrapped.
You will find the following included with the Classified 580: DVI-to-HDMI adapter, VGA-to-DVI adapter, double Molex-to-8 pin adapter, and an 8 pin-to-double six pin adapter. Once again, this is due to the unique power situation integrated into the card, which will be discussed shortly.
Also included is a quick start guide, driver/software installation disc, a case badge, and a nice sized poster.