Gigabyte GA-8GPNXP Duo
8Σ Series 915P Express
August 12, 2004
Manufactured by Gigabyte Technology
Introduction
This quarter marks the start of new technologies that will take the PC industry to the next level. Intel takes the lead by introducing a new breed of chipset integrating a new socket type that will utilize these new technologies. These chipsets are designed to take full advantage of Intel's LGA775 processor, PCI-Express and DDR2. Technologies that provides ultimate performance by providing extreme bandwidth for your system.
Gigabyte as always is one of the first few manufacturers that comes out with motherboards that support such new chipsets. This time is no different as they already have retail versions available on the market of these boards based on Intel's newest 915x and 925x chipset. Today we will be reviewing one of their Intel flagship motherboard based on the 915P Express Chipset. This particular Gigabyte retail motherboard is included in their 8Σ Series of Motherboards that signifies the Fusion of Top Innovations. Introducing, the Gigabyte GA-8GPNXP Duo.
DDR2 courtesy of Corsair
PCI-E Graphics courtesy of nVIDIA
Gigabyte GA-8GPNXP Duo 915P Express
Gigabyte as a company needs no introduction. They started as early as 1986 and has since become a renowned leader in the motherboard industry, and a dynamic force in the world of technology with a solid and unshakable reputation of excellence. They have been producing solid mainboards not only for the mainstream market but also for the enthusiast and overclockers alike. So everytime a new chipset sporting new technologies come out, 100% Gigabyte will be one of the first to deliver a retail board based on such chipset.
So when Intel's 915x/925x chipset were born, Gigabyte was there to provide what the market was asking for. In today's review, we will focus on the GA- 8GPNXP Duo board based on Intel's 915P Express chipset, Grantsdale. This board is quite unique that it adds versatility in the mix. As the name "DUO" implies, it is able to support both DDR1 and DDR2. This means that for those wanting to go the LGA775 and PCI-Express way but is not prepared to chuck their expensive DDR1 for the more expensive DDR2, they now have the option to use their current ram and upgrade later.
Built on the latest LGA775 Intel P4 platform, the GA- 8GPNXP Duo features PCI-Express, Wireless LAN, Dual Gigabit LAN, IEEE 1394, 8 Channel Sound, Serial ATA, SATA Raid, IDE Raid, Dual BIOS and USB 2.0. It also boasts a solid pack of unique software features focused on performing important system essentials with speed and ease. It is also worth noting that this board utilizes a revolutionary eight-phase power circuit called Universal Plus Dual Power System (U-Plus D.P.S.) designed to withstand varying electrical current levels, ensuring future processor upgrades. With those specs, this i915P offering from Gigabyte packs a mighty package. Let's find out if it will live up to our expectations...
