Overclocking and thoughts
OverclockingIf 8GTexel/s pixel-pushing power and 32GB/s memory bandwidth just isn't enough for you, overclocking is always an option. With default cooling and an ambient temperature of 25c, I managed an error-free overclock to 530MHz core and 1100MHz memory. That's very close to default XT PE clocks, too. DOOM 3 was re-rerun at the highest setting to see what kind of impact an extra 30MHz core and 100MHz memory had on results.
Not a lot. You'd need an out-of-this-world RADEON-based card to match the GT's base performance. That or a better driver than CATALYST 4.8. Highly overclockable premium GPUs are as rare as hen's teeth.
Thoughts
The ASUS AX800XT/2DT package has a number of positive features going for it. The card is small, well-built, quiet, and looks damn good. The very fact that you can pop it into a small PCIe-based system is a real bonus. ATI/ASUS also use a native PCI-Express design with no bridge chip in between. The benefits of the faster PCIe link won't manifest themselves until applications require massive streaming from motherboard to GPU (and vice-versa), but it's nice to know that architectural bottlenecks aren't going to hold up progress. GPU Specifications-wise, it's identical to an AGP-powered X800 XT, although ASUS has taken the PCIe opportunity to hang a couple of DVI-I ports off the back. This is another real bonus for users with two DVI-compatible TFTs, as is ASUS' standard 3-year warranty.
I like the ASUS AX800XT/2DT. It has beguiling power in a small form factor. ASUS needs to ensure that SmartDoctor works with shipping cards, probably by means of a software update and, crucially, needs to get cards into the retail channel quickly. That's been ATI's stumbling block over the past few months. ASUS' PCIe RADEON X800 XT card will be successful if available very soon. Having to wait, say, 2 months will take away from the package's attractiveness.
Highs
Excellent design. Small form factor
Dual DVI
Quiet for such a powerful card
Decent software bundle
3-year warranty
Lows
Non-working SmartDoctor application
Availability?
