Intel X38 Express Chipset Debuts

To coincide with the launch of the Intel X38 Express chipset, we received a pair of enthusiast class motherboards, the Asus P5E3 Deluxe and the Gigabyte X38-DQ6.  The Asus P5E3 Deluxe is an ultra high-end motherboard that supports DDR3 memory, 802.11n wireless networking, and it even features an embedded Linux-based operating system that can be loaded in a matter of seconds.  The Gigabyte X38-DQ6 is also a high-end offering, but it supports more affordable DDR2 memory.

As you’ve probably come to expect from Asus, the P5E3 Deluxe ships with an over-the-top assortment of bundled accessories and software.  The Asus P5E3 Deluxe’s bundle includes detailed user’s manuals for the board and its integrated 802.11n WiFi NIC / AP, and a multi-language quick-start guide to help get the board installed as quickly and painlessly as possible.  Also included with the board is a driver DVD, six SATA cables, a 4-Pin Molex to dual-SATA power adapter, a pair of optional cooling fans, a package of Q-Connectors, black IDE and Floppy cables, a case bracket with USB and Firewire ports, and finally a pair of WiFi antennas.  You can also see a custom I/O shield above, which interestingly enough is somewhat unique.  With this I/O shield, Asus has done away with the sharp metal tabs common to virtually all other shields and has replaced them with an insulated foam.  The foam adapts to the shape of the board and helps prevent accidental cuts and vibration.