14 DAY TRIAL // Mainstream end-users may be pleased to learn that NVIDIA cards are still coming out on a regular basis, even though they lack DirectX 11 support. Sparkle has recently unwrapped a new GeForce GT 240 model that bears the Calibre brand and comes both in a 512MB version, as well as one with 1GB memory. Sparkle employs a special cooling solution that, thanks to its high cooling power, enabled the manufacturer to push the card's clocks significantly higher than those of the stock model.
As far as technical specifications are concerned, the Calibre X240/X240G features 96 stream processors and 512MB/1GB GDDR5 memory with a frequency of 3600MHz, as opposed to the reference card whose memory runs at 3400MHz.
Also, the GT 240 graphics processing unit has a clock of 630MHz and a shader frequency of 1677MHz, compared to the respective stock speeds of 550MHz and 1340MHz. In addition, the card has a memory interface of 128 bits, support for DirectX 10.1 and D-Sub, DVI and HDMI outputs.
While the performance itself is notably higher compared to the reference graphics card, it would not have been possible without the Calibre dual-layer fan blade cooling system. This dual-slot cooling solution features a fan with two-blade “layers” for increased airflow, and the blades are 1cm longer than other fans, which enable a higher air pressure.
These two features alone make the cooler highly capable, but its third feature also gives it a higher reliability and longer life. The fan has a self-cleaning function, which prompts it, at startup, to rotate clockwise for 30 seconds, then counter-clockwise for another 30 seconds, in order to eliminate dust from internal parts.
Of course, the card has integrated support for all technologies featured by the stock version, such as NVIDIA 3D vision and native HDMI. Both cards come with a Calibre three-year international warranty and the 512MB model is reportedly being listed in China at a price of roughly $114.