First GeForce 9 series GPU to be launched on Feb 21

[acroig]

"Nvidia is planning to launch its first GeForce 9 series graphics chip, the GeForce 9600 GT (G94), for the mid-range market on February 21, according to sources at graphics card makers.

The 9600 GT adopts a 65nm process and is manufactured by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). The GPU sees an increase in processing units, 64, and memory bus width, 256-bit, over previous 8600 GTS cards, 32 and 128-bit. The GPU's performance should see an increase of over 40% compared to the 8600 GTS, said the sources.

The new GPU also introduces Dual-Streaming Decode technology which allows two high-definition image decoding processes to be performed at the same time and provides picture in picture (PIP) functionality.

GeForce 9600 GT graphics cards will be priced at around US$169-189, with GeForce 8600 GTS pricing expected to be adjusted to the US$139-149 range, revealed the sources.

However, some graphics card makers are expected to delay their GeForce 9600 shipments by 2-3 weeks due the recent discovery of a bug in the initial 9600 chips relating to power supply. Although Nvidia has already corrected the issue, makers will still need time to rework on their designs.

In additional news, the sources updated that Nvidia's new generation high-end GPU, the GeForce 9800 GX2 has been delayed to the end of February or the beginning of March from its original schedule of mid-February.

Nvidia declined the opportunity to respond saying it cannot comment on unannounced products."

http://www.digitimes.com/mobos/a20080219PD213.html

[hazindu]

Is Nvidia stacking products? Where does the 8800gs which is also sub $200 fall into the mix?

[razor1]

think the gs is going to be dropped.

[SIrPauly]

There like stop-gap product offerings 'till the product like this new chip hit the market place to replace it.

[Dave]

wait what? a mid ranged card with a 256bit bus? NEVAR!

[traitoR]

I think their product lineup is getting a little congested .... convoluted as well with all these different versions.

[Arghuin]

Originally Posted by traitoR

I think their product lineup is getting a little congested .... convoluted as well with all these different versions.

That's the thing though; the 8800gs was supposed to be a 'stop-gap' solution, available in limited numbers and for a limited amount of time until the 9600gt became available. So, as far as nVidia are concerned, no congestion there

[SteadVéx]

Mid range, with 256bit, well now i'm tempted by this

[jimjobob]

i saw 3 9600gt's for sale at best buy on saturday already so i would say they already launched it.

[Greasy]

Give me a 9800GTX that's 20% faster than the ultra, and I'll step up both my GTs. Otherwise I don't think I'll bother.

[Puffnstuff]

I just saw an article at the INQ which stated that the 9800 was delayed.