There is mounting evidence that all new Barton cpu's are being factory locked. This has been happening during the last weeks of the chip production.

So far all weeks 43 (0343) and later are confirmed factory locked.

This means that whilst you have access to the FSB you will not be able to change the multiplier. So far there is no way to unlock these chips using the classic methods-wire trick, track painting e.t.c.

Pete

Bad move - AMD are loved because they offer 'power for pennies' and o/c like their potential. Someone will find a way to unlock it i guess.

This seems an odd decision, as they've just released the new Duron which is a massive o/c

I can only guess that too many people are buying lower speed Barton and clocking them, which is affecting sales of the XP3200s... Just like the ATI 9500 praphics card all over again?

Probably, but the XP1800 TBredB had just the same scenario

But the release of the duron may be why they are locking the more expensive chip. Does that make any sense...hmmm....it doesnt really does it

Pete

No it doesnt mate - especially as they're now also bringing out a 1.8Ghz Duron, and these chips will only further gnaw away at locked XP cpu sales.

MAYBE this is a subtle move by AMD - those enthusiasts wanting to push their XP3200 wont be able to, so that extra power buzz will have to be via AMD gently ushering them onto 64bit.

Those on a budget will still live those halcyon o/c days by investing in a Duron, that will probably top out XP 2600/2800 levels.

This still leaves a middle range for those wanting to upgrade their 32bit but not able to afford 64bit. Therefore they have the top range Bartons, which are more powerful than Durons but not able to be unlocked and interfere with the 64bit market.

Heeeeeyy! Maybe thats why???

Have you seen the 1.8's for sale anywhere yet?I am thinking about testing one out on a cheap mobo. And trying to overclock it. I am trying to make a high end pc with the least budget possible. Like a kind of personal challenge but also with the view of selling some units on.

Pete

marky you got them sussed !!!
cleverer than a fox with two tails or was it more cunning mr b. said.
as cunning as a fox whose just passed his degree in cunningness.