Currently, only AMD and Intel 965/975-series chipsets support CrossFire
multi-GPU configurations with ATI graphics cards. However,
HKEPC now reports that AMD is planning to further open CrossFire so that the technology can work with any motherboard that has dual PCI Express x16 slots. This so-called 'Open Multi-GPU Chipset Platform' initiative could bring
CrossFire support to motherboards with Nvidia, SiS, and VIA chipsets. HKEPC's
sources say the market share of AMD's multi-GPU solution is currently lagging
behind that of Nvidia, so the rumored move could help tip the odds for AMD. Not
only that, but if it succeeds, this "Open Multi-GPU Chipset Platform" initiative
could push Nvidia to open up SLI to other chipset vendors, as well. HKEPC
doesn't mention any kind of time frame for the move, and there's no telling
whether Nvidia would even allow CrossFire setups to run with its chipsets.
This is certainly a good news for consumers and will pressure NVIDIA to open up their SLI technology as well.