Although the 8RDA3+ has a pretty impressive set of features, we still cannot understand why Epox simply didnt use the MCP-T to utilize features like dual NICs and IEE1394. Epox would've also benefited with SoundStorm technology using the MCP-T. Leaving all that aside, the 8RDA3+ proved to be a great performer and since it supports the upcoming 200MHz FSB Athlons you can be sure that its future ready unlike the initial wave of nForce2 boards where your luck was more important than the board. Even if you're not planning on moving to the 200MHz based Athlons, the 8RDA3+ will definitely help you achieve those kinds of speeds with its awesome overclocking features.
Layout
Epox does a good job with layout of the 8RDA3+. The CPU socket has plenty of room and four holes punched around it which should keep the hardcore cooling crowd happy. If we could, we would've liked to see the IDE/floppy connectors to the right of the memory sockets.
8/10
Hardware Features
The 8RDA3+ boasts a pretty impressive list of features quite a few of which could've easily been incorporated into the MCP-T if Epox had used one. The Dual NICs will definitely add value to this board for people wanting to build a system as a Gateway.
13/15
BIOS and Overclocking
The BIOS has always been one of the best things about an Epox board and the 8RDA3+ doesnt dissapoint. Epox provides enough options and voltages to tweak the system to its best performance.We do wish that the Northbridge had some active cooling as that could have allowed even better overclocking.
14/15
Performance
The performance on the 8RDA3+ was as good as any other nForce2 board which is currently the fastest platform for an AMD based system. And as you saw from our benchmark graphs, the move to 200MHz FSB will provide additional improvement.
22/25
Stability
Like the previous Epox boards that we looked at, the 8RDA3+ proved to be a very stable performer at stock as well as overclocked speeds. We had the board looping benchmarks for over 24 hours at 200MHz FSB and did not experience any crashes or random reboots.
20/20
Packaging / Price
Although the box art looks a little strange and nowhere as fancy and snazzy as some of the other motherboard manufacturers, Epox does a good job with including rounded cables and Serial-ATA power cables. The manual is pretty good as well and the included CD features Norton Ghost and PC-Cillin.
13/15
Reviewer's Experience
+3
t-break Score
93
The official distributor for Epox products in the UAE is Aptec and you can visit their website by clicking here or to find an online retailer, visit www.pricewatch.com
