24888 Rev 3.03 - July 12, 2004

AMD-8151TMAGP Tunnel Data Sheet

Cover page

AMD-8151TMHyperTransportTM AGP3.0 Graphics Tunnel

Data Sheet

1Overview

The AMD-8151TMHyperTransportTM AGP3.0 Graphics Tunnel (referred to as the IC in this document) is a HyperTransport™ technology (referred to as link in this document) tunnel developed by AMD that provides an AGP 3.0 compliant (8x transfer rate) bridge.

1.1Device Features

HyperTransport technology tunnel with side A and side B.

Side A is 16 bits (input and output); side B is 8 bits.

Either side may connect to the host or to a downstream HyperTransport technology compliant device.

Each side supports HyperTransport technol- ogy-defined reduced bit widths: 8-bit, 4-bit, and 2-bit.

Side A supports transfer rates of 1600, 1200, 800, and 400 mega-transfers per second. Side B supports transfer rates of 800 and 400 mega-transfers per second.

Maximum bandwidth is 6.4 gigabytes per second across side A (half upstream and half downstream) and 1.6 gigabytes per second across side B.

Independent transfer rate and bit width selection for each side.

Link disconnect protocol supported.

AGP 8x bridge.

Compliance with AGP 3.0 specification sig- naling, supporting 4x and 8x transfer rates.

Compliance with AGP 2.0 specification 1.5- volt signaling, supporting 1x, 2x, and 4x data-transfer modes.

Supports up to 32 outstanding requests.

31 x 31 millimeter, 564-ball BGA package.

1.5 volt AGP signaling; some 3.3 volt IO; 1.2 volt link signaling; 1.8 volt core.

Host

HyperTransportTM

Link

16 bits upstream,

16 bits downstream

AMD-8151TMDevice

Side A

Side B

 

tunnel

 

AGP

 

Bridge

HyperTransport

Link

 

 

Downstream

8 bits upstream,

 

 

Device

8 bits downstream

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AGP Graphics

 

 

Controller

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 1: System block diagram.

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AMD specifications Overview, Device Features, Cover, AMD-8151TMDevice

8151 specifications

The AMD 8151 is a notable member of AMD's family of chipsets, designed to complement the AMD K5 and K6 processors. Released in the late 1990s, this chipset was primarily targeted at performance-driven PCs. The AMD 8151 provided users with an array of features and technologies that enhanced the overall computing experience, making it a popular choice among system builders and enthusiasts at the time.

One of the standout features of the AMD 8151 is its support for a 64-bit data bus. This significant design choice allowed for faster data transfer rates and better communication between the CPU and other critical components, such as memory. The chipset was capable of supporting multiple memory configurations, including ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory, which enhanced system reliability, particularly for servers and workstations.

In terms of connectivity, the AMD 8151 included several integrated controllers, such as the PCI controller, which facilitated connections to various peripherals and expansion cards. With its support for the PCI bus, users could take advantage of high-speed devices, such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network adapters, enhancing the overall functionality of their systems.

Another important characteristic of the AMD 8151 is its power management capabilities. The chipset featured advanced power management technologies, which allowed systems to use energy more efficiently. This not only helped reduce operational costs but also contributed to less heat production, extending the longevity of the components within the PC.

The AMD 8151 also offered robust support for a range of bus speeds, which provided flexibility for users looking to customize their systems. With a maximum bus speed of 66 MHz, it was well-suited for the processors of its time, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.

Moreover, the AMD 8151 played a crucial role in the development of 3D graphics capabilities. It was designed to work seamlessly with AMD's 3D graphics technology, which allowed for improved visual performance in gaming and multimedia applications. This made it an appealing choice for users who prioritized graphics performance.

Overall, the AMD 8151 chipset embodied the technological advancements of its era, providing enhanced performance, flexibility, and reliability. It stood as a testament to AMD's commitment to innovation in the computing space, marking a significant chapter in the evolution of PC architecture.