Chipset Question

Discussion in 'Hardware' started by ibemonty2004, 11 Jun 2003.

  1. ibemonty2004

    ibemonty2004 What's a Dremel?

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    I have heard of some of the different chipsets such a the nforce2, KT333, KT400, etc. I was wondering if someone could point me towards somewhere that talks about the major difference of the diff chipsets and what advantages/disadvantages they have.
     
  2. whypick1

    whypick1 The über-Pick

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    You're unlikely to find a comprehensive analysis on all the chipsets, considering that the ones you mentioned are spaced about a year or so apart (which is a century in the tech world).

    Also, one thing you have to understand is that the chipset is kind of like a really big axe. It might be able to cut through diamonds or chop down trees with a slight tap of the axehead, but it is upto the user (motherboard manfacturer), to decide what it will be used for.

    Anyway, very brief, and most likely slightly incorrect run-down.

    KT333 = Designed by VIA, supports all Socket A procs upto Thoroughbred B (depends on motherboard and BIOS). No frills as far as integrated features (IDE/USB/etc.)

    KT400 = Supports Barton processors and 166mhz FSB speeds (which the KT333 couldn't, despite the moniker that suggests otherwise). Also uses and improved single-channel memory controller and IIRC USB 2.0 natively.

    nForce2 = Depending on which you get, nForce2 can either support upto Thoroughbred B or upto Barton if you get the nForce2-400. Utilizes a dual-channel DDR controller, integrates LAN, audio and USB 2.0 onto the chipset itself (along with the usual suspects).
     
  3. NiHiLiST

    NiHiLiST New-born car whore

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    I can't argue with that. I'll just add that if you're looking to buy a motherboard now then go for a good nForce2 board since it's regarding by almost everyone (well, everyone really, just covering myself from flames :p) to be the best Socket A chipset available.
     

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