Motherboard Layout and Routing Guidelines

2.3.4Dual Processor Systems

2.3.4.1Dual Processor Network Topology and Conditions

Figure 2-9. Recommended Topology for Dual Processor Design

Slot 1

Intel® 440GX AGPset

 

 

L3

 

L4

 

L5

 

 

 

 

Slot 1

2.3.4.2Dual Processor Recommended Trace Lengths

The recommended trace lengths for dual processor designs are summarized in Table 2-2. Intel’s simulations have shown that it is desirable to control the amount of imbalance in the network to meet ringback specifications at the Intel® Pentium® II processor when the Intel® 440GX AGPset drives. This control is reflected in the recommendations of Table 2-2.

Table 2-2. Recommended Trace Lengths for Dual Processor Designs2

Trace

Minimum Length

Maximum Length

 

 

 

L3

0.50”

1.50”

 

 

 

L41

1.50”

4.00”

L52

L4 - 1.00”, but L4+L5 must be at least 4.00”

L4 + 1.00”, but not greater than 5.00”

NOTES:

1.L4 & L5 are interchangeable

2.It is possible to find working solutions outside the recommendations of Table 2-2, as the solution space plot show. Intel strongly recommends that any traces that fall outside the recommended lengths be simulated to ensure they meeting timing and signal quality specs.

2.3.5Single Processor Systems—Single-End Termination (SET)

2.3.5.1Set Network Topology and Conditions

Removal of the termination resistors from the system board can reduce system cost, at the expense of increased ringing and reduced solution space. Intel has simulated this topology, known as single end termination (SET), and found that it can work. However, the topology has some limitations which are discussed below.

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Intel®440GX AGPset Design Guide

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Intel 440GX manual Dual Processor Systems, Single Processor Systems-Single-End Termination SET

440GX specifications

The Intel 440GX chipset was launched in 1997 as part of Intel's series of chipsets known as the 440 family, and it served as a critical component for various Pentium II and Pentium III-based motherboard architectures. Specifically designed for the second generation of Intel’s processors, the 440GX delivered enhanced performance and supported a range of important technologies that defined PC architectures of its time.

One of the main features of the Intel 440GX was its support for a 100 MHz front-side bus (FSB), which significantly improved data transfer rates between the CPU and the memory subsystem. This advancement allowed the 440GX to accommodate both the original Pentium II processors as well as the later Pentium III chips, providing compatibility and flexibility for system builders and consumers alike.

The 440GX chipset included an integrated AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) controller, which supported AGP 2x speeds. This enabled high-performance graphics cards to be utilized effectively, delivering many enhanced graphics capabilities for gaming and multimedia applications. The AGP interface was crucial at the time as it offered a dedicated pathway for graphics data, increasing bandwidth compared to traditional PCI slots.

In terms of memory support, the 440GX could address up to 512 MB of SDRAM, allowing systems built with this chipset to run comfortably with sufficient memory for the era’s demanding applications. The memory controller was capable of supporting both single and double-sided DIMMs, which provided versatility in memory configuration for system builders.

Another notable feature of the Intel 440GX was its support for multi-processor configurations through its Dual Processors support feature. This allowed enterprise and workstation computers to leverage the performance advantages of multiple CPUs, making the chipset suitable for business and professional environments where multitasking and high-performance computing were essential.

On the connectivity front, the chipset supported up to six PCI slots, enhancing peripheral device integration and expansion capabilities. It also included integrated IDE controllers, facilitating connections for hard drives and CD-ROM devices.

Overall, the Intel 440GX chipset represented a balanced combination of performance, flexibility, and technology advancements for its time. Its introduction helped establish a foundation for subsequent advancements in PC technology and set the stage for more powerful computing systems in the years to come.