QDI Platinix 8-A: A Step Forward

Packaging for the QDI Platinix 8-A. An earnest look for OEMs.

The QDI Platinix 8-A with an optional ISA Slot for special requests from OEMs.

QDI joins the growing number of manufacturers who fit their boards with SMD components. The result of this is that the boards need significantly fewer semiconductors, which reduces costs and optimizes the layout. For the duration of the testing process, the QDI did not run into any problems. In the benchmark tests, the Platinix 8-A lands in the top of the pack and is much better than average.

Accessories included with the QDI Platinix 8-A.

Looking at the list of features, you can see that the manufacturer does away with useless OEM interfaces such as CNR, AMR and ACR. If you look carefully, you'll see that the board layout allows for an antiquated ISA slot, which, in practice, is installed for a select few customers. The ISA interface is still used for special components such as measurement cards. QDI also provides for ambitious home users, as shown by the tool "Step Easy II." This makes it possible to overclock the processor during operation. The voltage of the CPU can be increased to 1.8 Volt, the AGP to 1.65 Volt and memory to 2.75 Volt. Furthermore, real PC freaks can create their own Start screen (800x600 max., 16.7 million colors) with the help of a tool called "Logo Easy II."

Overclocking beginners: the manufacturer includes this tool.

Convenient: BIOS update under Windows 2000/XP.

The optional ISA Slot in detail. Older measurement cards need an ISA interface.