Pressemitteilung
ASUS Pushes the Envelope in Performance with New Motherboard Supporting AMD Opteron™ Processor and NVIDIA nForce3 Chipset
Taipei, Taiwan; June 30, 2003 – ASUSTeK Computer Inc. (ASUS), the worldwide leader of motherboards, today introduced the SK8N motherboard supporting industry-leading specifications, which include AMD's highly anticipated AMD Opteron™ processor and NVIDIA's latest nForce3 pro 150 chipset. Also incorporated on the SK8N are a dual-channel memory architecture, the advanced HyperTransport™ technology, IEEE 1394 high-speed interface, S/PDIF digital audio, integrated LAN support and more.
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The AMD Opteron processor and the ASUS aK8N platform can help provide stable, scalable performance for customs requiring high-performance 32- or 64-bit computing," said Ben Williams, director of AMD's Server/Workstation Business Segment. "
The cutting-edge engineering and advanced features of the ASUS SK8N can help provide an excellent platform for our shared customers adopting servers and workstation based on the new AMD Opteron processor."
The SK8N is the world's first motherboard built upon the Opteron processor series 100 architecture, bringing revolutionary native 32-bit and 64-bit computing to mainstream users. The AMD Opteron™ processor is based on AMD's 64 architecture, which represents the landmark introduction of the industry's first x86-64 technology. This next-generation processor provides a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance, investment protection, and reduced total cost of ownership and development.
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ASUS motherboards are highly regarded in the industry for their outstanding quality and performance," said Drew Henry, senior director of platform business at NVIDIA. "
We are confident that NVIDIA nForce3 Professional customers will find the ASUS SK8N to be an excellent workstation solution, offering the most advanced features, unprecedented performance, and unmatched quality."
HyperTransport technology
HyperTransport technology is a high-speed, low latency, point-to-point link designed to increase the communication speed between integrated circuits in computers, servers, embedded systems, and networking and telecommunications equipment up to 48 times faster than some existing technologies.
Dual-channel memory architecture
Dual-channel technology doubles the bandwidth of system memory and can boost system performance to outperform any existing solutions. The SK8N provides the capability to handle the most memory-intensive tasks.
Other cutting-edge features include IEEE 1394 for high-speed interface. This standard is especially effective for transferring large data files from digital audio/video devices such as digital TVs and digital cameras. With S/PDIF digital audio support, the SK8N delivers great sound performance. Furthermore, with onboard LAN, Serial ATA RAID and 6 USB 2.0 ports, it is a convenient solution for networking and fast peripheral connection.
Right out of the box, the SK8N provides unique features seen only on ASUS solutions.
C.P.R (CPU Parameter Recall)
When the system hangs due to overclocking failure, there is no need to open the case to clear CMOS data. Restart the system and the BIOS will return to previous settings, allowing users to easily tune CPU settings again.
CrashFree BIOS2
It allows users to restore BIOS data from a floppy diskette even when BIOS code and data are corrupted during an upgrade or invaded by a virus. Unlike any other competing products, ASUS motherboards now enable users to enjoy this protection feature without the need to pay for an additional ROM.
EZ Flash
With ASUS EZ Flash, you can update BIOS before entering operating system. No more DOS-based flash utility and bootable diskette.
Q-Fan
ASUS Q-Fan technology intelligently adjusts fan speeds according to system loading to ensure quiet, cool and efficient operation.
MyLogo 2
Adds style to your system with customizable boot logos.
Multi-language BIOS
Provides friendly BIOS setup menu in several languages to help you easily configure the system.
Key specifications
One 940-pin socket supports one AMD Opteron processor 100 series or 200 series CPU Built-in 1MB L2 cache. AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32- and 64-bit computing
Scalable HyperTransport™ Bus
NVDIA nForce3 pro150
Dual-channel architecture: 4 x 184-pin DIMM sockets support max. 8GB PC2700 / PC2100/ PC1600 ECC DDR SDRAM Registered memory
1 x AGP 8x slot
5 x PCI slots
6 x USB 2.0 ports
2 x UltraDMA 133 /100
Promise R20378 RAID controller supports 1 x UltraDMA133 supporting two hard drivers and 2 x Serial ATA
RAID0, RAID1, RAID 0+1
IEEE 1394
S/PDIF out interface
LAN: NVDIA nForce3 pro150 MAC+ RealTek RTL8201BL PHY