Intel X38 chipset to get Extended Memory and Extreme Tuning Utility

Posted on Tuesday, August 07 2007 @ 13:45 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck

Intel is working on two new technologies for enthusiasts for its upcoming high-end X38 chipset:

Extreme Memory technology will function similar to Nvidia's SLI Memory allowing specially branded and certified memory modules to operate at higher performance levels when installed in a supporting motherboard, said the sources. Extreme Memory technology will only be available for DDR3 modules and will not support DDR2 memory, the sources added. In addition to X38 and P35 chipsets for desktops, the next-generation Intel 3-series notebook Centrino platform will also support Extreme Memory technology, noted the sources.

Currently, Intel is cooperating with memory makers including Kingston Technology and OCZ Technology Group to deliver Extreme Memory certified modules, with engineering samples predicted to be delivered in mid to late September, added the sources.

Intel's Extreme Tuning Utility technology will provide an interface to enable the changing of BIOS settings directly from within the operating system making it easier to tweak settings and overclock the system, the sources detailed. Intel's partners have the option to customize the interface of the software tool, according to the sources. Initially, the technology will only be implemented in the X38 chipset, the sources added.

The Intel X38 chipset will arrive in October.

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Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.

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Re: Intel X38 chipset to get Extended Memory and Extreme Tuning Utility
by Anonymous on Tuesday, August 07 2007 @ 14:35 CEST

While it's going to get hacked in a heartbeat, Intel's disavowal of DDR2 on the high end is a classic mistake they just never learn. They think they are able to force the market, yet look at RDRAM and the P4? The market rejected them both when there were alternatives. But Intel doesn't really seem all that bright. They excel at making all the same mistakes all over again.

They "should" offer both DDR2 and DDR3 and gradually ramp up, perhaps offering slots for both (that only operate in one mode or the other not at the same time) so that as DDR3 gets properly priced in the channel, it can be adopted.

Now this memory tuning from Windows thing (which probably won't work in Vista) is something that Nvidia has had for a while. Meanwhile Nvidia will only gradually move the high end to DDR3, a FAR wiser move.

Don't expect the X38 to do much. The P35 will offer excellent performance, better pricing, DDR2 (supported by Intel vs not supported in the X38), and the same pci-e 2.0 that all Intel chipsets and Nvidia (soon) will have.

But forcing the market to adopt something that costs vast multiples of current DDR2 cost is idiotic, no matter who you are. Wonder where Intel gets their MBA's? Because they sure could use a few more courses...

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