ASUSTeK Computer, the world's largest maker of graphics cards, is said to be developing graphics card with two RADEON X1800-series graphics processors in order to offer the maximum performance possible to computer enthusiasts not restricted with budget.
According to a report by AnandTech web-site, ASUSTeK's graphics card with two ATI RADEON X1800 graphics processing units (GPUs) is in the works. The product is said to be based on the design of the dual-GeForce 7800 GT graphics board, but no details are explained. It is also unclear when and whether such a graphics card is expected to be available.
ASUS EN7800GT Dual is based on two GeForce 7800 GT graphics processing units each equipped with 256MB of GDDR3 memory. The board features two DVI-I outputs as well as bundled with external power supply due to high power consumption. The print circuit board (PCB) of the product is large and the graphics card may not fit into typical computer cases.
Two NVIDIA GeForce 7800 GT graphics chips can operate in tandem using NVIDIA's multi-GPU technology called SLI. The latter is supported entirely by NVIDIA's graphics processors and does not require any additional elements on print-circuit boards (PCB). By contrast, ATI's multi-GPU technology called CrossFire requires the so-called compositing engine (CE), a set of chips, to be installed onto graphics cards. In case of a board with two GPUs from ATI Technologies, ASUSTeK Computer would need to install the CE too.
It is unclear whether ASUS plans to use the RADEON X1800 XT or XL flavour of the R520 chips.
ASUSTeK Computer has made only 2000 of ASUS EN7800GT Dual graphics cards in a bid to offer something exclusive to those who are willing to pay over $1000 for the product.