Page 1: Intro, background, specs
<B>Introduction</B>:
ATI has been releasing better and better graphics chips starting with the original Radeon. They are continueing the trend for the mainstream market with the R9500 Pro. You probably have seen many reviews about the technology behind the Radeon 95/700 series, so I'm going to go one step further, an overclocking review.
<B>Background</B>:
I needed a new graphics card to replace my <a href="/articles.php?id=13">Radeon 8500</a>, it has been nearly a year since I got it. I think it has served its time. I paid about the same price for it as I did the 9500 Pro. I then started to read about troubles on overclocking the card, that it was locked. A simple BIOS fix from warp11 (who is a very nice guy for doing it) fixed the problem, and I had a really (un)fun time overclocking the card.
If you want to skip right to the overclocking steps, go to page three.
<B>The Specs</B>:
Yeah, I'm gonna rip this from ATI's site... This is a must section for hardware reviews...
Fast 3D gaming performance
128MB DDR memory accelerates the latest 3D games
128-bit DDR memory interface provides end users with fast graphics performance
8-pixel pipeline architecture cuts rendering time in half when compared to any competing product
Supports the new AGP 8X standard, providing a high-speed link between the graphics board and the rest of the PC (2.0 GB/sec)
Highest level of realism
Provides full support for Microsoft® DirectX® 9.0 and the latest OpenGL® functionality
SMARTSHADER 2.0 technology allows users to experience complex, movie-quality effects in next-generation 3D games and applications
SMOOTHVISION 2.0 technology enhances image quality by removing jagged edges and bringing out fine texture detail, without compromising performance
128-bit floating-point color precision allows for a greater range of colors and brightness
Breakthrough video features
ATI's latest FULLSTREAM technology removes blocky artifacts from streaming Internet video and provides sharper image quality
Unique VIDEOSHADER engine uses programmable pixel shaders to accelerate video processing and provide better-looking visuals
Products designed and built by ATI offer:
Hassle-free manufacturer's warranty
Responsive and knowledgeable Customer Service Team
Extensive online user resources and updates through ATI.com
Feature-rich, frequently updated, ATI designed CATALYST software
That's all well and good, but I don't care too much as long as it is fast.
ATI has been releasing better and better graphics chips starting with the original Radeon. They are continueing the trend for the mainstream market with the R9500 Pro. You probably have seen many reviews about the technology behind the Radeon 95/700 series, so I'm going to go one step further, an overclocking review.
<B>Background</B>:
I needed a new graphics card to replace my <a href="/articles.php?id=13">Radeon 8500</a>, it has been nearly a year since I got it. I think it has served its time. I paid about the same price for it as I did the 9500 Pro. I then started to read about troubles on overclocking the card, that it was locked. A simple BIOS fix from warp11 (who is a very nice guy for doing it) fixed the problem, and I had a really (un)fun time overclocking the card.
If you want to skip right to the overclocking steps, go to page three.
<B>The Specs</B>:
Yeah, I'm gonna rip this from ATI's site... This is a must section for hardware reviews...
Fast 3D gaming performance
128MB DDR memory accelerates the latest 3D games
128-bit DDR memory interface provides end users with fast graphics performance
8-pixel pipeline architecture cuts rendering time in half when compared to any competing product
Supports the new AGP 8X standard, providing a high-speed link between the graphics board and the rest of the PC (2.0 GB/sec)
Highest level of realism
Provides full support for Microsoft® DirectX® 9.0 and the latest OpenGL® functionality
SMARTSHADER 2.0 technology allows users to experience complex, movie-quality effects in next-generation 3D games and applications
SMOOTHVISION 2.0 technology enhances image quality by removing jagged edges and bringing out fine texture detail, without compromising performance
128-bit floating-point color precision allows for a greater range of colors and brightness
Breakthrough video features
ATI's latest FULLSTREAM technology removes blocky artifacts from streaming Internet video and provides sharper image quality
Unique VIDEOSHADER engine uses programmable pixel shaders to accelerate video processing and provide better-looking visuals
Products designed and built by ATI offer:
Hassle-free manufacturer's warranty
Responsive and knowledgeable Customer Service Team
Extensive online user resources and updates through ATI.com
Feature-rich, frequently updated, ATI designed CATALYST software
That's all well and good, but I don't care too much as long as it is fast.