Introduction
Crucial Radeon X800 PROThe wait that inevitably exists between web-based reviews of reference graphics cards and widespread availability of retail models can seem interminable. Ryszard had the distinct pleasure of taking ATI's new cards, the X800 XT Platinum Edition and X800 Pro, for a review spin in the first couple of weeks of May '04. Over three months later, we now see 16-pipe PE cards finally hitting the retail channel and the 12-pipe PRO models available from most reputable vendors.
ATI's range of board partners has been increasing at a steady rate over the past couple of years. It's easy to see why. Most stick with the proven reference design and automatically attract significant interest by dint of ATI's GPU excellence, stretching back to the groundbreaking Radeon 9700. Crucial Technologies, more famed for its RAM distribution and focus on customer care, has carried a select range of ATI's previous GPUs. It's no wonder, then, that a Crucial-branded Radeon X800 PRO is now available. Is this the X800 PRO to spend your hard-earned cash on?. Let's find out.
