Crossfire Xpress 3200 Challenges nForce4 SLI X16
If all that you need is an ordinary computer, any of the current core logic products from ATI, Nvidia, SiS or VIA will be adequate. But since you are reading this article, we think you are likely interested in high-performance graphics platforms, which is what ATI and Nvidia emphasize. Unfortunately, Crossfire and SLI "certification" prevents other chipset vendors from playing the graphics game. You need an Nvidia platform if you want GeForce 7 dual graphics, and ideally an ATI platform for Radeon X1000 solutions. While there are a few chipset alternatives to power ATI dual graphics, GeForce twin setups will only run on Nvidia nForce products.
However, both ATI and Nvidia also realize that core logic products depend on their value proposition in order to sell well. Nvidia was quick to implement appealing features such as a Gigabit Ethernet controller with added hardware firewall, and adding sophisticated software that isn't available from the competition. Since the Santa Clara based firm also entered the chipset market earlier, it is not surprising that the nForce4 family is still our Athlon chipset of choice. ATI knew it had to close the gap, which is why it intended to purchase the Taiwanese chipset maker ULi. But the deal did not work out, probably because Nvidia was more aggressive once again and made the better offer.
Despite this turbulent history, the Crossfire Xpress 3200 chipset is finally here - and it is on the way to claiming the dual graphics chipset crown. Let's find out if it indeed represents a changing of the guard.
