[IDF08] Intel's own X58 chipset motherboard

ASUS and Gigabyte have already released pictures and specifications of their X58 motherboards last week already. Intel can't stay behind and gave us the opportunity to take a closer look at its own high-end DX58SO 'Smack Over' motherboard.

The board's lay-out isn't very common. Intel has placed the memory modules next to the CPU-socket, instead of beneath it. The VRM's, that are to provide the processor's power, are placed between the socket and the PCI-Express slots. the X58 north bridge chip can be found where most other motherboards have their memory slots. 

Remarkable is the fact that the board has four memory slots, te Core i7 processors have a triple-channel memory controller. This means that the memory will only reach its optimal performance when the first three slots are occupied. Placing a module in the fourth slot will increase the capacity, but may lead to (drastic) performance drops. 

The DX58SO board is CrossFire compatible with 2x 16 PCI-Express 2.0 lanes. The used South Bridge is the ICH10R, as we know from the P45 motherboards. 

Tags: corei7 crossfire x58

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