digital VRM

[hardwareking]

I just checked out the foxconn 975xAB board.It has digital VRm.Where as all the other boards have regular VRMs with capacitors seen around the cpu socket.
So is there any advantage of having digital VRM?Does it affect overclocking stability?

 

[renethx]

The following is cited from a press release. I don't know anything more than that.

The 975X7AB-8EKRS2H includes FOXCONN?s innovative digital PWM technology which improves regulated voltage to the CPU plus minimizes bulky capacitors and mosfets around the CPU socket. PWM not only effectively reduces heat buildup on board and improves Vcore stability when overclocking, but also creates more room around the CPU socket for easier installation of coolers. In addition, gamers and graphics enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the integrated FOXONE Technology that allows robust overclocking of the CPU, memory and chipset while maintaining stable operation and firm control and monitoring of critical system status including, temperatures, fan rotations, and voltages.

FOXCONN unwraps Intel 975X-based, Intel Core 2 Extreme platform

DFI is also lauching two motherboards with digital PWM.

LANPARTY UT NF590 SLI-M2R/G for Socket AM2

DFI is the first in the industry to use 5 phase digital PWM, a technology prior only seen on server motherboards. Digital controllers eliminate the dangers of overheating and exploding capacitors, giving users a safer and better monitored control over the overclocking.

DFI Launches the Highly Anticipated LANParty UT NF590 SLI-M2R Motherboard

LANPARTY UT NF590 SLI-T2R/G for Socket 775

 

[lopri]

If it actually lowers the temperature around the CPU socket area, I'm all for it. I happened to check the temps around the PWMs on P5W-DH yesterday (with a thermo-gun) and got astound by its super duper temperatures. I'm ordering some ramsinks to stick on the board.

 

[Peter]

VRMs can be designed with or without headroom, be they digital or analog. So the bare fact that it's digital does not at all imply it's better for anything. Except maybe for reducing cost and board real estate.