There are a number of desktop motherboards on the market, some of which can pride themselves with certain unique designs and features. However, the latest addition from DFI, a leading vendor of high-performance motherboards, offers one of the most interesting options, currently available on the market. Dubbed Hybrid P45-ION-T2A2, the new motherboard combines Intel's P45+ICH10R chipset with NVIDIA's ION platform, with both solutions being made available on the same motherboard.

In essence, the DFI Hybrid platform has been designed as a solution that will provide users with a choice for an energy-efficient, affordable motherboard that can support two different computer systems at the same time. The board pairs Intel's P45 and ICH10R chipset combo, with the NVIDIA ION chipset and an integrated Intel Atom N230 processor, with the user being offered the opportunity to share the USB, 8-channel audio, SPDIF, and other system features, between the two computer systems.

Intel's mainstream P45 chipset will enable users to install a Core 2 Duo processor, coupled with DDR2 memory and a graphics card, while the NVIDIA ION chipset pairs the low-power Atom N230 processor with SO-DIMM DDR2 memory and the integrated NVIDIA GeForce graphics. With the help of on-board KVM and LAN switches, files can be shared through the two systems. Users can pair a separate keyboard/mouse and monitor to the system, or can use a set of two such peripherals on the same motherboard.

What DFI has done with its Hybrid motherboard is to enable a high level of power efficiency and to provide a choice for two systems in a single package. The board comes with integrated HDMI and DVI-I ports, while the on-board audio chip features support for 7.1 CH HD Audio. Set for shipment on the 27th of November, the board will become available to users with a suggested retail price of US$399.