NF7-M question

[KenSr]

I have been comparing the Abit NF7 and the NF7-M.
The only differences that I can find are...
NF7 based on nForce2 chipset ( MCP + SPP )
NF7-M based on nForce2 chipset ( MCP + IGP )
What does SPP and IGP mean?

The only other differences that I can find are the NF7-M has onboard video and doesn't support 400 FSB processors.

Please help
Ken

 

[Sidescraper]

Hi, Ken.
IGP - Integrated Graphics Processor
SPP - System Platform Processor
MCP - Media Communications Processor
You lose a serial port on the NF7-M. The integrated graphics are GeForce4 MX. It's the equilient of a $40.00 video card. Okay for business, not so hot for games, although you can hook it up to a monitor and TV (optional bracket) at the same time. Note that on-board graphics uses some of your system RAM. How much depends on your BIOS settings.
The biggest drawback to the NF7-M is the lack of support for the 400 MHz processors. Also note that the NF7-S is about the same price as the NF7-M and gives you Firewire (IEEE-1394) and Serial ATA.
I would buy the NF7-M for a plug and play business box, the NF7 and, at least, a ATI 9500 for a plug and play gaming box, and an NF7-S for an upgradable computer than can be well overclocked.
If you buy either the NF7 or NF7-S, make sure it uses the Ultra 400 (SPP), which offically supports the 400 MHz FSB CPUs.

 

[KenSr]

Thanks alot Sidescraper,

A couple of more questions.

If I had plenty of RAM would the onboard video slow it down much?

I didn't know AMD had a 400 MHz FSB CPU.

Ken