14 DAY TRIAL // Nvidia has just launched the new nForce 780i SLI, the first chipset that fully supports the so-called enthusiasts system architecture (ESA). Initially designed for heavy overclocking, the company has lowered the chipset audience because of multiple issues with their previous generation core logic.
The nForce 780i SLI and nForce 750i SLI chipsets are compatible with Intel's processors using the LGA775 form-factor, a common standard that includes both dual-core and quad-core CPUs built with the newest 45nm process technology.
Both Nvidia 7 series chipsets support DDR2 memory controllers, but the 780i version comes with enhanced performance profiles for improved memory overclocking. Another important feature for the 780i chipset is that it includes support for 3-way SLI technology, while the 750i only sports the classical, 2-way video connectivity, at a more affordable price.
Nvidia's Nforce 780i SLI core-logic is not a revolutionary breakthrough and can be regarded more as a refurbished version that comprises the nForce 680i SLI SPP, nForce 570 MCP and the nForce 200 hub in a single chip.
The nForce 680i SLI SPP is built with the same old 90nm technology and inherits every major feature from its predecessors: dual-channel DDR2 memory controller that can carry up to 1200MHz when overclocked, unpredictable processor system bus overclocking capabilities and PCI Express x16 slot support.
The nForce 570 MCP (media and communication processor) is a refurbished version of the 680i MCP, better known as nForce 570/590 SLI. This chip offers support for PCI Express x16 bus, PCI Express x8 bus, 6 Serial ATA-II ports with RAID capability, 2 Parallel ATA ports with RAID capability, 10 USB 2.0 ports, two Gigabit Ethernet controllers, 5 PCI slots as well as 7.1 high-definition audio.
The nForce 200 hub is the most interesting "ingredient" of this new combination and provides up to four PCI Express 2.0 slots, known internally as "the Nvidia interface" that allows data transfer at 7.20GB/s rates.
According to some Nvidia officials, Asustek will be able to deliver Nvidia nForce 780i SLI motherboards until late December, while Gigabyte is scheduled for early January. MicroStar International has already released their P4N series to include both nForce 750i SLI and nForce 780i SLI chipsets.