NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT: AGP Has Not Been Forgotten

GeForce 6600 GT AGP In Detail

The GeForce 6600 GT AGP graphics processor, codename NV43, is the same chip used on the PCI Express platform card. The HSI bridge chip , which was already discussed at length in earlier articles, provides the requisite AGP compatibility. With 8 pixel pipelines and 3 vertex shader units, the GeForce 6600 GT graphics processor features exactly half the number of core components as the faster GeForce 6800 GT and Ultra models. Detailed information on the 3D architecture and design of the GeForce 6600 GT and GeForce 6800 is available in the following articles:

• Performance Leap: NVIDIA GeForce 6800 Ultra
• NVIDIA Takes a New Stab at the Mainstream with GeForce 6600

The AGP version differs from the PCI Express board in several respects. First, where the 500 MHz chip speed of the AGP model is identical, its 128 bit DDR3 memory operates 100 MHz slower (900 instead of 1000 MHz DDR). The biggest differences, however, are external. Aside from the AGP connector, the thing you'll notice right away is the GPU heatsink, which has been rotated 40 degrees. This is necessary in order to make room on the compact board for the HSI bridge chip. Both the graphics core and the HSI chip are soldered onto the board at the same angle. The 6600 GT AGP requires an external power source, something we have come to expect from the latest AGP cards.

The AGP version of the GeForce 6600 GT can't kick up the performance without needing an external power supply.