Up Close

     The first thing I noticed about the 256mb version is that it comes with the same type GPU cooler as the 128mb version, but it comes equipped with RAM Sinks whereas the 128mb version does not. As far as default clock settings go, the 256mb version of the 9800 Pro's GPU and memory is clocked the same as VisionTek’s 9800XT.

     To my surprise, VisionTek uses what looks to be a silver based thermal compound between the heatsink and GPU. Normally I find some type of frag tape that I end up removing before I install the video card. Finally someone does it right!

Installation & Setup

     There were no surprises when installing the video card and setting it up was even easier. These days, ATi comes out with new and faster drivers about every few weeks, so it’s best to download your video drivers directly off the ATi website. In our review, we used the CATALYST Windows XP 4.5 drivers, which were released right in the middle of doing this review. It just goes to show you how often ATi releases new drivers.

     Setting up the card is simple, you don’t need to do anything… Driver defaults are already set to give you a mix of the best performance and best quality. The one thing that you can do to greatly increase frame rates is to disable vertical sync, but other than that, there really is no need to mess with the driver settings.

Test System

     The test system that I’ll be using this card with is based on a DFI Pro 875B motherboard with a 2.4C P4 overclocked to 3GHz. Below is the full configuration of the system.