Review - EPoX 4BEAV i845D Motherboard + Bluetooth
Techware Labs gratefully recognizes EPoX's support in making this review possible!
Review by Edward Chang, call sign: Big_E
August 30, 2002
Conclusion:
The EPoX 4BEAV will replace the aging 4BDA2 motherboard. Both are based on the same Intel 845D chipsets, except this newer revision supports Intel's 533 MHz FSB processors, and it also endorses USB 2.0.
Even though this motherboard is based on the older i845D chipset, its performance does match that of the newer i845E/G chipsets. In some games, like DroneZMark, UT, and Vulpine GLMark, the 4BEAV speeds ahead of i845E/G motherboards.
The Achilles foot of the 4BEAV is features. The 4BEAV seems like a value addition to EPoX's line of Intel 533MHz Pentium 4 DDR motherboards. It offers the bare essentials for users and enthusiasts like USB 2.0, onboard sound, and overclocking features (this board overclocks nice). It lacks stuff that not many people really need or use, such as RAID and integrated video. But, integrated LAN would have been a plus. Nevertheless, EPoX makes up for this by including a Bluetooth network adapter, which essentially acts as a form of LAN or PAN (Personal Area Network).
Retailing for around $20 less than competing i845E-based motherboards, the EPoX 4BEAV is affordable an affordable solution for people who are looking to use the new 533MHz Intel Northwood CPUs, USB 2.0 devices, and Bluetooth.
Techware Labs awards the EPoX 4BEAV our Best Value award, for offering a decently well-rounded motherboard that innovatively supports trendy Bluetooth technology, for as low as $90.
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Questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome.
Edward Chang, call sign: Big_E
9/10 Beers
Approximate Price:
$90- EPoX 4BEAV
$29.95- EPoX Bluetooth Dongle
