X-bit labs

Nvidia Delays Shipments of DirectX 10, PCI Express 2.0 Supporting Chipsets.

Category: Chipsets

by Anton Shilov

[ 12/28/2007 | 11:24 PM ]

Nvidia Corp., a leading developer of system chipsets, has reportedly postponed shipments of its new code-named MCP72 and MCP78 core-logic sets for processors by Advanced Micro Devices. The reasons of the postponements are unclear, but they may be related to both lack of high-performance AMD Phenom processors as well as potential issues with those new core-logic sets.

The new code-named MCP72 core-logic series is projected to fully support new AMD Phenom processors based on AMD’s new micro-architecture that belong to the “Stars” family of chips. All versions of the Nvidia nForce 700a are expected to support HyperTransport 3.0 processor bus as well as PCI Express 2.0 interconnection, which will be the key-feature of the new array of chipsets that will directly compete against AMD’s own 790- and 780-series of chipsets.

Mass production of the new 7-series series nForce chipsets for AMD processors was expected to start in October with shipments beginning in November or December. However, according to a news-story by DigiTimes web-site, Nvidia decided to delay its shipments to January.

Nvidia’s MCP78 are also expected to feature Hyper-Transport 3.0 bus as well as PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot for add-in graphics cards. The new built-in graphics core will, apart from DirectX 10, sport third-generation PureVideo HD engine that accelerates H.264 and VC-1 as well as D-Sub, DVI, DisplayPort, HDMI and TV-out outputs. Like all Nvidia’s core-logic sets, the novelty is also projected to support up to six Serial ATA-300 connectors with RAID capabilities, two Parallel ATA connectors, Gigabit Ethernet controller, 12 USB 2.0 ports and so on. With the new chipset the company will add pressure on AMD's in-house designed IGPs.

Originally Nvidia wanted to initiate mass production of its code-named MCP78 products in October and ship it to customers before the year end. However, it is also reported that the new integrated graphics processor (IGP) by Nvidia will be unveiled sometimes in January if not later. The new core-logic will compete against AMD 780G chipsets that also sport DirectX 10 and advanced video engine functionality. AMD’s 780G is due out in January or February.

Nvidia did not comment on the news-story.