Intel Nehalem Boards Compared - DFI
(Page 3 of 4 )
Although less well-known in mainstream circles than the other corporations in this round-up, DFI is one of the world's best-established and most innovative mainboard manufacturers. It too has been quick to recognize the potential of the Core i7 processor with the LanParty UT X58-T3eH8 board which, with its massive nickel-plated copper "Flame Freezer" cooling system and vibrant yellow and green fluorescent color scheme, looks as contemporary as any board we've come across. With heat sinks of this scale becoming almost commonplace, it's fast approaching the point where PCs will need to be plumbed into permanent water-cooling systems.
"The DFI LanParty UT X58-T3eH8, with it's intergalactic-class cooler and fluorescent DIMM slots"
On the hardware side the board matches up to the high-end boards from Asus and Gigabyte, with dual SLI and CrossFire capability, support for up to 24GB of RAM in six slots, eight-phase "server grade" volterra digital PWM system, full digital MOSFET, and multi-layer ceramic capacitors. Expansion options, however, are rather more limited, with the six peripheral expansion slots obscuring each other to an extent. Prospective customers are advised to ensure they will be able to attach all their required cards before parting with their cash.
On the software side, DFI has delivered a package that should keep its target market of overclockers and enthusiasts happy. Highlights include the LANParty Auto Boost System for overclocking assistance, the "best in the world" Genie BIOS with over a hundred overclocking options, and text-file CMOS backup. However, it's the quality of the board itself and DFI's reputation among enthusiasts that will really help to sell this board, while mainstream buyers are likely to stick with more recognizable brands.
Next: Intel >>
More Motherboards Articles
More By Bruce Coker
