Intel Communities: Message List

Re: DX58SO & Core i7 D0 stepping BIOS Connundrum

webadmin@intel.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 03:32:25 GMT

FYI: The D0 revision chips should boot even with an older DX58SO BIOS. I've done it. So, you should at least be able to do a BIOS upgrade if you are paranoid and don't want to install the OS without an official "supported" BIOS. Yes, I did that too.

The same is true for other X58 boards I've used, like ASUS and EVGA. So, "unsupported" stepping does not mean "doesn't work at all." Of course, your mileage may vary. If it isn't working for others, I don't know what to say...

Re: Xeon vs i7 Processors

webadmin@intel.com — Wed, 27 May 2009 22:31:34 GMT

Yes, you can use higher speed memory. Of course, setting it to use over 1066 MHz (DDR3-800) is technically overlocking the W3540 memory controller. I assume you actually mean 1600 Mhz (DDR3-12800) sticks, right? That's generally a good choice for price/performance, and gives you a decent overclocking buffer.

Do note that chasing MHz for RAM is fairly pointless for real world performance with this excellent architecture. It performs exceptionally well at stock or near stock speeds.

Re: Xeon vs i7 Processors

webadmin@intel.com — Mon, 25 May 2009 22:24:14 GMT

There are three products that are part of the Nehalem microarchitecture currently: Core i7, Xeon 3500 and Xeon 5500.

Core i7 = High-end Desktop Nehalem

Xeon 3500 = Adds optional ECC memory support [Targeted for workstations]

Xeon 5500 = Adds support for 2 CPUs [Targeted for dual CPU servers & workstations]

At the same MHz, all these CPUs will perform exactly the same. If you want the fastest and most flexible (for overclocking) CPU for desktop use, select the forthcoming Core i7 975 "Extreme Edition" CPU or the Xeon 3570. They will both work on the same exact motherboard, even though most won't bother advertising they accept the Xeon 3500 version.