Introduction

A few weeks ago NVIDIA launched their first card in the GeForce 9 Series. The card is based on the G94 core which is basically a cut-in-half version of the G92 from several 8800 GT models. Mainly the number of shaders has been halfed resulting in a configuration with 64 shaders instead of 128 like in G92. This change results in a drastic reduction in the number of transistors (yes the shaders are not just disabled) which allows NVIDIA to use a smaller silicon footprint resulting in a cost reduction.

The VVIKOO 9600 GT we have on our testbench today is based on the original GeForce 9600 GT design but has several changes to the PCB design, operating frequencies, display output configuration and thermal solution.

As one of the first 9600 GT models the card features not only two DVI outputs but also an HDMI output and the brand new DisplayPort. Another change is that you can feed in audio via optical SPDIF Toslink. Other 9600 GTs only allow the electric version. The clock frequencies have been bumped to 700 MHz core and 1000 MHz memory, both in the middle spectrum of the factory-overclock ranges available.

For reference please also consider reading our other 9600 GT reviews:
Zotac GeForce 9600 GT Amp! Edition
Biostar 9600 GT.