ABIT BP6
The ABIT BP6 (introduced in 1999) was the first motherboard to allow for the use of Intel Celeron processors in Symmetric multiprocessing (SMP) configuration. For this reason, and also for its overclocking capabilities, it became popular among computer enthusiasts.[1] The BP6 has been credited as the product that made symmetric multiprocessing,[2] a feature previously available only on workstation-class systems, affordable.
The BP6 was based on the Intel 440BX chipset, consisting of the 82443BX Northbridge and the 82371AB Southbridge.
Processors supported by the BP6 in SMP configuration were the PPGA Socket 370 Celeron processors (300-533 MHz). Later Pentium III and Celeron Coppermine models could also operate on the BP6, albeit only in single processor configuration with the use of aftermarket socket adaptors. Intel never intended the Celeron to be able to operate in SMP, and later generation Celerons had their SMP interface disabled, restricting the feature to the higher-end Pentium 3 and Xeon product lines.
The motherboard also featured the two extra HDD ports on with the HPT366 Ultra DMA/66 adapter fitted on the mainboard itself. This allowed up to eight IDE compatible drives to operate at the interfaces maximum speed.
The motherboard featured ABIT SoftMenu[3] BIOS extension which allowed for jumper-less adjustment of system parameters such as system bus speed, CPU & AGP bridge multipliers and voltages from inside the BIOS.
References
- ↑ "Ars Technica: Abit BP6 Dual Socket-370 Motherboard". Ars Technica. Retrieved 5 September 2013.
- ↑ Ung, Gordon Mah. "Mobos that Mattered the Most". Maximum PC. Future US, Inc. Retrieved 5 September 2013.
- ↑ "ABIT BP6 Review". X-bit labs. Retrieved 5 September 2013.