Intel Atom-based D945GCLF motherboard now available

Posted on Tuesday, May 20 2008 @ 2:37 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
A British webstore is listing an Atom-based motherboard for 52.90GBP (excl. VAT), with the current currency exchange rate that's around $100. The site says shipments will go out in the first week of June.

The Intel D945GCLF mini-ITX motherboard measures 17cm x 17cm and features the Intel Atom 230 1.60GHz processor which has a TDP of only 4W. Graphics are provided by the Intel GMA 950 IGP chip, it has Realtek HD audio and there's support for one DDR2 533/667MHz memory module. Other features include one PCI slot, 2x USB, 2x SATA, 1x IDE, 2x PS/2, 1x Parallel, 1x VGA, 1x RS232, 1x LAN 10/100Mbit, line-out, line-in and microphone.
This very low power CPU (TDP = 4W), with multiple thread support, is exceptionally efficient. Capable of powering Vista Home Media Center, for example, with ease. The Atom 230 CPU used on this board is a 1.6GHz model, with 512K of L2 cache, based on Intel’s latest 45nM process. The supporting chipset, the Intel 945GC + ICH7 provides desktop connectivity and performance. Intel high definition audio, 10/100 LAN, PCI, SATA2 (3GB/s) DDR2 533/667 are all there, to ensure connectivity, expandability and performance. Build you new mini-itx project, or upgrade your mini-itx project today, and get a huge performance boost (typically 3-4x benchmark improvement, when compared to a VIA C7 1.5GHz / CN700 system).




The Atom processor on this motherboard is passively cooled by the way, the chip is located under the tiny aluminum heatsink. The Northbridge on the other hand requires a HSF that looks rather big on such a tiny motherboard.


About the Author

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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