ATI All-In-Wonder X800XL
The All-In-Wonder X800 XL - Up Close
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The All-In-Wonder X800 XL brings a solid balance of advanced video features along with powerful graphics processing for a truly all-in-one experience. Based on the R430 core, the All-In-Wonder X800 XL is equipped with a full 16 Pixel Pipelines backed by 6 Vertex Shaders and doesn't need supplemental power. The specifications list the VPU as being clocked at 400MHz, although our particular card ran at 391MHz. The board also came equipped with 256MB of GDDR3 memory clocked to run at 490MHz (980MHz DDR), which ran slightly higher at 493MHz. The All-In-Wonder X800 XL uses Samsung K4J55323QF-GC20 chips which are rated to run at a peak of 500MHz (1000MHz DDR), leaving a little room for overclocking, as we'll explore later in this review. The card comes with a standard fan assembly that was thin and did its job adequately, although those who are looking for a quiet PC may find it a bit loud.
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With the All-In-Wonder X800 XL, ATI implemented a custom input/output adapter which maximizes real estate, which in the past required sacrificing one of the video outputs. The setup with the All-In-Wonder X800 XL is reminiscent of the All-In-Wonder 9600, which was the first All-In-Wonder to sport Dual-Monitors. We've seen a number of variations with each model thereafter. This time around, the port is further reduced in size and the adapter is much smaller than its predecessor. The All-In-Wonder X800 XL comes with two Coaxial connectors, one for the FM receiver and the other for connecting to standard cable TV. Next is the custom input connector that utilizes an adapter to connect the video inputs and outputs as well as VGA output through a single port. Lastly, the All-In-Wonder sports a DVI output for a second monitor.
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The All-In-Wonder utilizes a Microtune IC 2121 tuner for its TV and FM capabilities and is significantly smaller than previous models. The Microtune IC 2121 has lower power requirements without sacrificing image quality or signal reception. ATI claims the Microtune 2121 reduces power consumption by 11% compared to previous models, with the tuner using a mere 1.5 watts of power. This also reduces overall heat production, allowing the tuner to run much cooler compared to older, bulkier models.
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The All-In-Wonder X800 XL matches the Microtune 2121 with the Theater 200 chip. With its dual 12-bit ADCs, the Theater 200 handles all of the signal conversion whether inputted from the TV Tuner or external sources. During the conversion from analog to digital, the signal passes through a 2D comb filter and video downscaler to optimize video output to ensure the best possible image is presented on screen. The processor is also responsible for demodulating and decoding the audio stream to separate left and right channels.
