The Intel P45 Express chipset is the 2nd 4 series chipset from Intel after the X48, poised to replace the P35, the P45 is is positioned as a mid-end chipset for both the enthusiasts and professional alike, with a series of feature refresh from its P35 predecessor. Notable updates include a 1600Mhz FSB update, official DDR3-1333Mhz support, PCI-E 2.0 support with a possible dual x8 split for ATI Crossfire configurations (the P35 could only do x16+x4). The I/O Controller Hub (ICH) is also updated to ICH10, with LPT support completely removed, as well as potential support for 10GBe Connectivity. 10GBe connectivity will be something that we will not see in the near future, as 10GBe LOM chipsets are expensive and scarce, and the necessary networking equipment is still not available to the average home user.

Look here for the details, please.

t_b thanks much .... the motherboard looks great-either in DDR2/DDR3 - as noted in your post about DDR3 memory the cost factor is out there yet-still, would like to see in person results from a live machine in operation. Maybe a visit to the local electronic shop-larges in this area with a parking lot of hundreds of frantic buyers. Thanks again, nice info!

You are most welcome, Df. My distinct pleasure.