Introduction

Generation Change In Chipsets; Data Traffic In The Fast Lane

It has been a long time since Intel has simultaneously launched a new processor and a new platform. The last time was the launch of the Pentium 4 in November 2000, to be exact. Today, two and a half years later, it's that time again: whoever wants the very latest in technology needs a Pentium 4 with 200 MHz Quad FSB and a suitable platform for Dual DDR400. The technological progress is noteworthy. Intel has increased the clock of the Front Side Bus from 133 to 200 MHz - that's a boost of 50%. As a result, the bandwidth likewise increases, from 4.2 to 6.4 GB/s.

In order to use the processor optimally, you need a motherboard with the 875P/ Canterwood chipset, which will replace the 845PE/ Brookdale and the 850E/ Tehama. The Canterwood is Intel's first desktop chipset for Dual DDR400 memory, which also functions in dual-channel technology. The need to completely change platforms for the P4 with 200 MHz FSB notwithstanding, the user at least gets a few nice goodies that sweeten the deal: Serial ATA is now integrated into the chipset; the AGP 8X interface for graphics cards is also meant to be a persuasive argument for purchase. Up till now, it was difficult to tell customers why Intel initially offered AGP 8X to the workstation segment and not to the mainstream market.