Extra onboard features
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DDR2: A Need For Speed
It's pretty
obvious that the DDR memory standard has gone as far as it can
go. Just to reach PC3200 standards, JEDEC had to raise the default operating voltage from
2.5V to 2.6V, not to mention loosen timings down to 3-3-3-8. These timings were not
even available when DDR memory was first introduced in 2001.
DDR-2 RAM is the next step in
the evolutionary line, and it has ramped up much quicker than DDR memory
ever could have. The first iterations of DDR2 memory run at DDR2-400, DDR2-533 and DDR2-667
speeds with DDR2-800 right around the corner. One of the main benefits of DDR2
memory is that it uses less power and runs on a
lower voltage than DDR memory (1.8V as opposed to 2.5/2.6V for
DDR). To top things off,
the new BGA packaging that DDR2 DRAM modules use improves the electrical
and thermal properties of the memory, making it more efficient and easier
to use.
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Pretty much all high-end
motherboards these days are full size ATX boards, and the Albatron PX925XE Pro-R
is no different. If you plan to use this board,
better make sure you have a roomy case otherwise you're asking for trouble!
The general layout of sockets
and connectors on the PX925XE Pro-R is nice, and there are no floppy drive
connectors under the PCI slots, thank you!
The
Intel ICH6 Southbridge comes with four Serial ATA Ports but only one
IDE channel. With the majority of PC's still using IDE hard
drives, the 'ITE' RAID controller allows users to carry over existing IDE drives instead of
just junking them.
I was
particularly impressed with the printed Socket 775 processor installation guide included with
the PX925XE Pro-R. It's very detailed and tells first time installers
exactly what to do, as well as what not
to do. The DIY Installation Guide is also pretty handy, instructing users through
the full installation procedure.
While we
had no
complaints with the PX925XE Pro-R motherboard itself, we do have some recommendations
for Albatron about its accessories package. Simply put, Albatron
needs to include more gear with its boards! For instance, there are
four Serial ATA channels on the PX925XE Pro-R, but only one Serial ATA cable and one Molex to Serial
ATA power cable are included!?
The USB bracket isn't included, so users cannot take advantage
of the two onboard USB headers for adding extra connectivity. Little things like this
would definitely increase the 'value' quotient of the motherboard and make
things run smoother for Albatron's customers.
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