Monarch Hornet Pro: "SFF" meets PCI Express, DDR2
by Evan Lieb on July 31, 2004 12:05 AM EST- Posted in
- Systems
Monarch Hornet Pro: Overclocking and Memory Testing
| Overclocking Testbed | |
| Processor: | Pentium 4 3.4GHz LGA775 |
| CPU Voltage: | 1.3875V (default) |
| Cooling: | Stock LGA775 HSF |
| Power Supply: | Topower TOP350FX (350W) |
| Maximum OC: (Default Ratio) |
208FSB 3536MHz (+4.0%) |
| Maximum FSB: | 208FSB @ 14X multiplier |
As we explained in the BIOS section of this review, the Intel D925XBC doesn't allow much in the way of overclocking capability. As shown above, we were able to reach 208MHz FSB (the limit available in the BIOS). And as we've said before, that's no where near acceptable for enthusiasts and also no where near the levels that we're seeing with most 925X motherboards from other manufacturers.
Memory Stress Test Results:
This memory stress test is very basic, as it simply tests the ability of the Monarch Hornet Pro to operate at its officially supported DDR2 memory frequency of 533MHz, at the best performing memory timings that our Corsair XMS2 DDR2-533 modules will support. Memory stress testing was conducted by running RAM at 533MHz with 2 DIMM slots filled.| Stable DDR533 Timings (2/4 DIMMs populated) |
|
| Clock Speed: | 267MHz |
| Timing Mode: | N/A |
| CAS Latency: | 4.0 |
| Bank Interleave: | N/A |
| RAS to CAS Delay: | 3T |
| RAS Precharge: | 10T |
| Precharge Delay: | 3T |
| Command Rate: | N/A |
Unlike the original DDR-I SDRAM modules that we have used for the overwhelming majority of previous memory stress tests in the past few years, today, we are delving into somewhat new territory with DDR2 memory timings. As you can clearly see above, DDR2 latency is considerably higher compared to DDR-I latencies like CAS 2-2-2-6, timings to which we've become accustomed in the past. This obviously accounts for some of the reasons why 925X systems don't perform any better than 875P systems. But on the whole, you need not concern yourself with DDR2 memory timings with 925X systems until 925X systems actually become competitive with the competition, after Intel releases at least 4GHz processors later this year.
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MichelMerlin - Monday, August 2, 2004 - link
What I like in this SFF is its size and according ability to receive more changes than the Shuttle models, for instance big silent GC cooling systems.However the article (excellent otherwise) should tell IMO if the system, as delivered, is silent enough during regular activities (excluding leading edge games but including some ordinary games)
Paris, Mon 2 Aug 2004 09:28:35 +0200
Bonesdad - Saturday, July 31, 2004 - link
Who is the little guy inside the case? Does he make the wheels go round?bupkus - Saturday, July 31, 2004 - link
I like the hybrid approach between the traditional microATX and SFF as it should allow mainboard options unavailable with the SFF.Unfortunately, they only allow the microATX PS which usually comes with a much lower wattage.
Just a broader comment here:
With so much being put on the mainboard I would think fewer people really need all those PCI slots. I for one don't see my ever needing an ATX mainboard when the microATX boards provide all the slots I will need. Smart move by Monarch. I'll be looking for when the prices come down.
Spacecomber - Saturday, July 31, 2004 - link
Oops, I guess you can't edit these notes. I meant to say 10,000 rpm "drives" not fans.While I'm at it, did you notice that this chassis has a removable motherboard tray?
skunkbuster - Saturday, July 31, 2004 - link
to me it just looks kind of generic. i wish they spent some time 'revamping' the exterrior..can't really compare to a shuttle in that aspect..
Spacecomber - Saturday, July 31, 2004 - link
Looks like this motherboard requires a custom I/O shield, which Intel didn't supply?Yeah, I know, I'm being pretty picky.
Thanks for bring these barebones to my attention.
By the way, how did the system hold up with temperatures after running some programs that would heat up the processor, video card, and hard drives? Some idle vs load temp comparisons would have been interesting. If I followed the case description properly, there are two 40mm fans in the back and an 80 mm intake fan in the front (and the P/S, of course) for cooling this system. Do the dual 10,000 rpm fans have enough room to breath? I couldn't quite picture where they are in the case from the photos.
Space
Zepper - Saturday, July 31, 2004 - link
Monarch is a sharp company - just wanted to be the first to post a comment.. Well written article! this type of system is not my cup of tea but monarch has plenty of others to ease that plastic out of your wallet...
.bh.