Help me pick a mATX board for an Intel Quad

[TKHDebater]

I haven't been following motherboard and processor developments for a while and am in the process of building a new system. I will be using it primarily for Photoshop (prosumer level), web surfing, outputting video to a non HDMI TV, and mayber very light GIS work. I have a micro ATX case I will be using. I believe I have decided on going with an Intel quad core Q6600. I'd like a motherboard that can handle at least 8GB of RAM, have some overclocking options, RAID 1, and that is a relatively good performer. I do not game. I will be running dual DVI LCDs and have an older dual PCIe card.

Any suggestions? I have been looking at http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16813121355 and http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16813136055

Thanks

 

[o1die]

The DFI board should overclock better; but if using the stock Intel heatsink, it may not take the overclocking without running the fan on full speed constantly. The fan noise bothers me, but may not bother you. Most p45 boards have fan control in the bios; just set it on the lowest setting, and monitor temps with coretemp, a free download. The cpu will run fine up to about 70 celcius under load. Above 70, and you risk windows file corruption. If you don't overclock or need ps2 ports, then the Intel is a good choice.

 

[Skott]

I agree with o1die and would say the DFI is the better overclocker of the two.

Edit: Here's a HF thread dedicated to the DFI mobo. You may find some useful info in it.

http://www.hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1337296

 

[VirtualLarry]

Originally posted by: o1die
The cpu will run fine up to about 70 celcius under load. Above 70, and you risk windows file corruption.

Even at tjunction = 0 (throttle temp), you shouldn't be getting file corruption.

I run my E2140s at 81-86C constantly, and don't get file corruption.

 

[XR250rdr]

That Intel board will have zero OC options. My mom's system is running on an Intel DG35EC and its a great little board if you don't need to OC. Plus it will use cheaper DDR2 vs DDR3 on the DG45ID.