Intel Corporation notified its customers about design changes of Intel Desktop mainboards based on i875P, i865G and i865PE chipsets. Primarily the changes imply support for Intel Prescott CPUs coming out in late 2003 because now is just the right time to start ramping Prescott-supporting platforms.

The list of modified mainboards includes D875PBZ, D865PERL, D865GLC, D865GBF SKUs. Basically, the changes consist of CPU’s VREG enhancement for future processors support. The enhancement involves load line changes for future processors, new (G)MCH VTT support as well as support for dual load lines (needed for 4-phase power that is available on some mainboards). Additionally, Intel will provide new BIOS versions for its mainboards. About a month ago Intel already announced the same kind of product changes with some other products among the Intel Desktop Board line-up.

As a result of the modifications made to the mainboards, the new versions of Intel’s D875PBZ, D865PERL, D865GLC, D865GBF will support Prescott Socket 478 processors at speeds up to 3.60 or even 3.80GHz.

Other mainboard makers are also shipping their Prescott-ready products, but, unfortunately, do not notify end-users about changes. Do not get upset if your mainboard bought in the first half of the year will not be able to work with Prescott processors at 3.20 or 3.40GHz while the same device acquired in late August or September will function flawlessly, as there are chances that such outdated platforms will support mainstream Prescott chips at 2.80 and 3.00GHz. In case you plan to get an i865PE- or i875P-based mainboard, try to choose the one with the latest revision up to date.