14 DAY TRIAL // AMD has only just announced its ATI Radeon HD 5570 graphics adapter and already its partners have started launching their respective versions. PowerColor, however, did not limit itself to only the “small” number of four HD 5570 models, but also chose to launch two HD 5550 cards. All devices feature DirectX 11 capabilities and consume less than 45 Watts under a full load.
The Radeon HD 5550 cards come with memory capacities of 512MB and 1GB DDR2 and a memory interface of 128 bits. They also boast 320 stream processors and memory clocks of 550MHz and 800MHz, respectively. Video output options include D-Sub, DVI and HDMI, these connectivity capabilities being shared by the HD 5570 cards.
These models come both in low-profile and full PCB versions, but they all possess 400 stream processors, a memory capacity of 512MB or 1GB DDR3 VRAM clocked at 1600MHz, a 128-bit memory interface and graphics processing units clocked at 650MHz. In addition, they boast software support for CrossFireX, so that two cards can be combined without any need for extra cables.
“PowerColor HD5500 series is designed to fulfill gamers who have multiple needs for their PCs, not only for enjoyable HD gaming performance but also for other advanced home entertainment experiences,” Ted Chen, CEO of TUL Corporation, says. “With all the latest technology support, HD5500 series is the graphics for virtually everything.”
The HD5570 low-profile edition uses, as its name implies, the low-profile form factor, being best suited for use in HTPCs. In addition, this card also comes in an edition that supports Eyefinity. This HD5570 Low Profile Eyefinity Edition supports multi-display setups, for enhanced and immersive multimedia capabilities, but, otherwise, has the same specifications as the other HD 5570 cards.
The six graphics adapters have already started shipping and may be found listed at prices of under $80.