We are glad to report that the first ever ATX mainboard for AMD Opteron processors designed for 1P workstations – ASUS SK8N – has started to appear for sale in different parts of the world. Now those who prefer AMD processors to Intel CPUs or interested in 64-bit computing have a chance to build a rather powerful system with an AMD64 CPU inside.

ASUS SK8N appears to be an extremely interesting mainboard. Firstly, this is the first mainboard based on – nForce3 Pro 150 – the first workstation core-logic from NVIDIA. Secondly, this is the first workstation mainboard in ATX form-factor for AMD Opteron CPUs. Thirdly, this is the first mainboard for 1-way Opteron-based workstations. Finally, this is the first ASUS mainboard for AMD Opteron CPUs. In short, the SK8N is a rather unique product; you may take a look on its specifications in this news-story.

ASUS SK8N is priced at $220 to $250 in Japan and at about $240 - $300 in the USA, according to PriceWatch search-engine. Currently there are only a few stores to offer the device in the USA, whereas in Tokyo there are already a number of shops, where end-users may acquire an ASUS SK8N.

Probably ASUS SK8N + AMD Opteron system will not be an inexpensive and will hardly become an interesting solution for typical users, however, software developers or enthusiasts who are interested in getting a cutting-edge 64-bit AMD-based platform will definitely find the combination useful.