MCP73 Preview

[lopri]

CeBIT earlier this year was the first time we saw NVIDIA MCP73 out in the wild. The single-chip core logic, containing a brand new integrated graphics core and all traditional north and southbridge functionality needed for a modern Core 2-supporting PC platform, signaled NVIDIA's intent to go after the mainstream computing platform. Combining all core logic functionality and an IGP into one dice lets mainboard vendors create simpler and cheaper designs, while still retaining a rich plethora of features.

We've known that the IGP component would be based on NVIDIA's last generation D3D9-level technology that underpins their GeForce 7-series designs, and we've known the feature set, so there's not much new to learn today. This article therefore serves as a quick refresher, fleshing out the final details of the product line based around MCP73, before a look at couple of reference mainboard pics to get a feel for what shipping designs from NVIDIA's partners will be like.

It's worth remembering that this is NVIDIA's first IGP for Intel processors in their history. One of the artifacts of the AMD/ATI merger is that ATI won't play in that space any more, leaving NVIDIA to duke it out with Intel and SiS for marketshare (VIA's license has expired and they will no longer be able to sell their Intel chipsets as of April 2008).With MCP73, they've certainly
got a chance. Here's why.

http://www.beyond3d.com/content/articles/92

 

[heyheybooboo]

Anybody know how the nvidia/Intel MCP73 specs against the nvidia/AMD MCP72 coming out next month ???

Best I can find is rite cheer

Two version as minimum are expected, MCP72P and MCP72XE

MCP72P Functionality appears as follows:

* Supported processors: AMD socket AM2+
* Support hyper-Transport 3.0
* Two interfaces PCI express x8 in SLI regime
* Up To four memory modules DDR 2-800
* Interfaces SATAII
* 8-channel sound codec
* Gigabit net adapter

MCP72XE will be the advanced solution: two interfaces PCI express x16, two gigabit net adapters , additionally there is a interface for third video card, which will be used in physics calculation .

Both chipsets will be available with the built-in graphic core with directX 10 support and support to SLI hybrid technology . The latter will allow to use the integrated graphic core in SLI with the installed discrete video card , which will help in the overall system performance.
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Let the flames begin