The first non-Intel mainboard for the new Pentium 4 CPU appeared ASUS P4T, from one of the largest Taiwanese mainboard manufacturers, which is in close cooperation with Intel. The mainboard has a pretty standard set of features. It is based on i850 chipset, supports 4 RIMM slots (the memory modules should be installed in pairs only), is equipped with 5 PCI, 1 AGP Pro and 1 CNR slot. There are 2 USB ports and an optional integrated network controller.
However, ASUS P4T will also boast a couple of unique features as well, which deserve mentioning separately. First of all, this mainboard will be very overclocking friendly. Since the frequency clock multiplier in Pentium 4 processor is locked, ASUS made it possible to change the FSB frequency either with the help of a set of dip-switches or via BIOS Setup. The range of supported FSB frequencies is quite impressive: from 100MHz up to 150MHz with 2-3MHz increments.
The second point is the mainboard design, which has been changed greatly in order to improve the CPU and RIMM modules cooling. Socket 423 is turned by 90 degrees and the memory slots are located along the right edge of the mainboard PCB.
The third worthy peculiarity of ASUS P4T mainboard is the package it goes in. besides the mainboard itself, the box also contains a metallic thing the board is fastened to, and a rubber sheet to protect the back side of the PCB against damaging. P4T, like any other Pentium 4 board, features a bit different mounting holes. So, these additional components should save the users time and trouble looking for a new PC case, because they allow using the mainboard in your regular case. Although you will still have to get a new power supply unit with a 12V-cable.
And now the most exciting issue: the price. Since this mainboard has a four-layer PCB and the i850 chipset is also quite expensive, ASUS P4T is now selling in Japan for about $430. Certainly, the price will drop but we really doubt that it becomes less than $350 by the time we will be also able to buy it.
However, ASUS P4T will also boast a couple of unique features as well, which deserve mentioning separately. First of all, this mainboard will be very overclocking friendly. Since the frequency clock multiplier in Pentium 4 processor is locked, ASUS made it possible to change the FSB frequency either with the help of a set of dip-switches or via BIOS Setup. The range of supported FSB frequencies is quite impressive: from 100MHz up to 150MHz with 2-3MHz increments.
The second point is the mainboard design, which has been changed greatly in order to improve the CPU and RIMM modules cooling. Socket 423 is turned by 90 degrees and the memory slots are located along the right edge of the mainboard PCB.
The third worthy peculiarity of ASUS P4T mainboard is the package it goes in. besides the mainboard itself, the box also contains a metallic thing the board is fastened to, and a rubber sheet to protect the back side of the PCB against damaging. P4T, like any other Pentium 4 board, features a bit different mounting holes. So, these additional components should save the users time and trouble looking for a new PC case, because they allow using the mainboard in your regular case. Although you will still have to get a new power supply unit with a 12V-cable.
And now the most exciting issue: the price. Since this mainboard has a four-layer PCB and the i850 chipset is also quite expensive, ASUS P4T is now selling in Japan for about $430. Certainly, the price will drop but we really doubt that it becomes less than $350 by the time we will be also able to buy it.
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