Introduction

NVIDIA is going 40nm, and today we have their first new GPU in the labs; for the first time since NVIDIA is launching their entry level models first, for the high end 40nm models we’ll have to wait for 2010 most likely. DirectX wise this GPU also supports the slightly newer DX10.1 specs (most notable feature of 10.1 is reduced overhead when using AA).

Leadtek allowed us to test their Geforce GT 220 model which comes with a low profile PCB, a custom cooler and is equipped with 1024Mb GDDR3. The GPU and Shader clocks are reference speed (625Mhz and 1360Mhz respectively) but the memory is running at only 800Mhz (vs 900Mhz reference).



As you can see, a 512Mb exists also; on the back of the box they list the features of the new arrival:



Most notable are:

NVIDIA PhysX

NVIDIA CUDA

PureVideo HD (accelerates HD video content, lowering CPU load)

HD Support (1080p)

Dual Link HDCP capability (for high resolution display)

DX10.1, Shader 4.1 and OpenGL 3.1 Support

Inside the box

Inside the box, you’ll find the GT 220 card, two low profile brackets, a driver CD and a simple installation guide.