NCQ/SATA2 + Crosfire getting new motherboard.

[imported_boe]

Hello,

I'm planning on getting a new system. I'd like it to support AMD2 x2
I'd want it to support crossfire - (i will consider SLI though)
I'd like it to support NCQ
I want at least 8 USB ports
I'd like as many slots on the motherboard as possible for cards.


I thought SATA2 was NCQ but maybe I'm wrong (I frequently am) I see the MSI board says SATA2 but it doesn't mention NCQ.

Thanks for your help

 

[Heidfirst]

Abit AT8 appears to fit the bill

 

[mamisano]

No need for NCQ unless you are using the system as a file server with multiple users accessing the drive. NCQ hurts performance in a standard desktop environment.... just an FYI

 

[imported_boe]

I think the AT8 only will have 4 usb ports and 2 slots but I could be mistaken.

I will be adding
internal sound card
an internal SCSI controller
an internal fax modem
an extra network controller

I currently have 7 USB devices and would prefer to connect them directly instead of using a hub

 

[Heidfirst]

4 USB ports on the I/O panel & 2 headers which should each power another 2 ports=8 in total
slots:
- 2 x PCI Express X16
- 2 x PCI Express X1
- 2 x PCI slots

 

[imported_boe]

"& 2 headers which should each power another 2 ports=8 in total "

Thanks - I want to make sure I know what that means. I prefer all the USB ports on the back of my PC believe it or not. Is it possilbe to get a usb blade/slot cover for these additonal ports?

Also - not sure about the new motherboards. I have a spare Compucase 6A19 - will the newer crossfire boards fit in those or do they require a different type of case? http://www.hecgroupusa.com/case_one.php?id=12

 

[Heidfirst]

Originally posted by: boe
"& 2 headers which should each power another 2 ports=8 in total "

Thanks - I want to make sure I know what that means. I prefer all the USB ports on the back of my PC believe it or not. Is it possilbe to get a usb blade/slot cover for these additonal ports?

The norm would be for it to come with 1 PCI cover plate with 2 USB & Firewire ports (that would give you 6 USB on the rear) leaving 1 header that most people use for front USB on their case.
You can normally buy spare generic rear USB plates though (at least in the UK) ifyou need another.

Also - not sure about the new motherboards. I have a spare Compucase 6A19 - will the newer crossfire boards fit in those or do they require a different type of case? http://www.hecgroupusa.com/case_one.php?id=12

They are standard ATX so should fit fine.

 

[imported_boe]

Thanks!

I just looked at the manual - when two cards are in it - you have virtually no space for other cards.

 

[Heidfirst]

Unfortunately I don't think that is going to be unique to the Abit ...

 

[imported_boe]

I appreciate the response.

I think it is time for them to consider a new motherboard size or format.