What's the difference between the NForce2 and NF2 400?

[grrl]

Both are rated at 400 FSB and support 3x DIMM for Max 3GB DDR333/266/200 or 2x DIMM for Max 2GB DDR400.

Is there any difference I should be concerned about? I want to set up a system with (hopefully) a 2500+ run at 3200+ speed.

 

[mechBgon]

nForce2 Ultra 400 has the fancier dual-channel memory setup, where nForce2 400 (non-Ultra) has single-channel. The nForce2s that came out originally could be considered earlier steppings of the nForce2 Ultra 400, since they likewise supported dual-channel DDR400.

Bigger picture: what boards are you looking at, is it the Shuttle AN35N variants?

 

[grrl]

I'm looking at the Abit NF7 that NewEgg is selling for 69.99.

link

Edit: Are the Shuttles any good?

 

[mechBgon]

Originally posted by: grrl
I'm looking at the Abit NF7 that NewEgg is selling for 69.99.

link

Edit: Are the Shuttles any good?

From what people say, it sounds like the Shuttles are pretty good, but if you want the fancy southbridge that has the full-on nVidia audio processors and Firewire (the MCP-T southbridge instead of the MCP southbridge), then neither of them offer that. Doesn't look like the NF7 has the MCP-T southbridge either.

What might help sort out all the boards out there, is this reference page at nVidia, showing all the nVidia-based boards and their chipset particulars. Or use Newegg's finder to search down the ones with the northbridge & southbridge of your choice.

 

[grrl]

The Abit site says the NF7S and NF7M have a 333 FSB.

I don't really care about the sound (I'll stick with my SB Live) or Firewire. I just don't want to have problems getting a stable 400 FSB.

NewEgg also has the CHAINTECH nForce2 Ultra 400 7NJL1 APOGEE for $60, but I've heard nothing about it.

 

[high]

DFI Lan Party Nf2 Ultra Rev. B has all the toys you need. I use the Rev A and it's awesome as well.