EPOX - EPoX 8KDA3+ NVIDIA nForce3 250 Motherboard Review

After the release of more affordable Athlon64 2800+, as well as the emergence of the nForce3 250(GB) chipset. Immediately, Epox presented the two models for public verdict: the multifunctional EP-8KDA3+ and the cheaper EP-8KDA3J with somehow cut-down set of controllers (both boards are built on the same PCB design). Today we’re reviewing the 8KDA3+… We’ll be comparing the performance of this board versus Asus K8V Deluxe built on the VIA K8T800 chipset. Besides, another contender is Abit AN7 based on the nForce2 Ultra 400 chipset with an Athlon XP (Barton) processor at 2.2 GHz clock speed (200х11 ; rating 3200+).

…Despite some shortcomings,Epox 8KDA3+ produced a good impression: attractive package bundle, wide expansion options, excellent overclocking results. There are also some BIOS-related flaws: the declared but not functioning Cool’n'Quiet, incompatibility to some memory modules.
Pros:
Good stability and excellent performance level;
Support for SerialATA (6 channels; 2xRAID);
Integrated 8-channel audio and Gigabit LAN controller;
Support for USB2.0 (8 ports);
A pack of Epox proprietary technologies: Magic Flash, Magic Health,Smart FAN;
Attractive package bundle (a screwdriver, a kit of radiators, albeit few SerialATA cables).
Cons:
BIOS flaws (not functioning Cool’n'Quiet, incompatibility to some memory modules).

Epox 8KDA3+ (nVidia nForce3 250) @ Digital-Daily