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ATI Radeon X1950 XTX (512MB)

Reviewed by

Rich Brown

on 08/23/2006

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CNET Editors' rating explained for ATI Radeon X1950 XTX (512MB)

Reviewed by:: Rich Brown
Edited by:: Matthew Elliott
Reviewed on:: 08/23/06
Updated on:: 08/23/06
Released on:: 08/23/06
Click here to see CNET editors' review for ATI Radeon X1950 XTX (512MB)
Design:: 8.0
Features:: 7.0
Performance:: 8.0
Overall score:: 7.7

Editors' rating: graphics cards
We rate graphics cards on a scale of 0.0 through 10.0 (see "What the numbers mean" below). The editors calculate the overall rating from a series of subratings, on a scale of 1 to 10, that gauge key aspects of the product. On the product review page and elsewhere on the Web site, the overall rating is displayed as a series of stars, based on a five-star scale with half stars (see conversion details below). The graphics cards we review generally can be divided into two classes: graphics cards and multifunction graphics cards. Each subrating is weighted based on its relative importance within a specific product class. For example, a graphics card's features subrating is weighted more heavily for a multifunction graphics card than it is for a nonmultifunction graphics card.

The rating criteria with the weightings by class are:

Features
Assesses the features of a graphics card relative to its class. This includes the graphics processing unit (GPU), memory, and connectors. Additionally, the package as a whole is evaluated, including bundled software and games. Multifunction cards are also evaluated on the capabilities and quality of features such as a TV tuner and video capture.

Graphics card: 20 percent
Multifunction graphics card: 50 percent

Performance
Gauges the overall performance of the graphics card relative to its class. This rating is based on results of independent, industry-standard benchmark tests, and popular gaming applications. For more details on the benchmarks we use and our test methodology, see the CNET Labs site.

Graphics card: 70 percent
Multifunction graphics card: 40 percent

Service and support
Assesses the company's service and support policies, including the term of the warranty and technical support via phone, e-mail, and the Web.

Graphics card: 10 percent
Multifunction graphics card: 10 percent

What the numbers mean

9.6 to 10.0 = 5 stars (Spectacular):
This exceedingly rare score is reserved for a product that is as perfect as it could be.

9.0 to 9.5 = 4.5 stars (Outstanding):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores high on all of its rating criteria. It succeeds at meeting all of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful drawbacks.

8.0 to 8.9 = 4 stars (Excellent):
A product that receives a rating in this range is superior in so many ways that its relatively few drawbacks are not very important.

7.0 to 7.9 = 3.5 stars (Very good):
While the strengths of a product scoring in this range certainly outweigh its weaknesses, it has some minor faults that certain users should be aware of.

6.0 to 6.9 = 3 stars (Good):
This range represents a product that is above average. Its strengths slightly outweigh its weaknesses, making it good for most uses but not a standout.

5.0 to 5.9 = 2.5 stars (Average):
A product that scores in this range is functional but unremarkable.

4.0 to 4.9 = 2 stars (Mediocre):
Products in this range are below average. They fall in the middle of the pack for most features, but suffer from a few additional major flaws.

3.0 to 3.9 = 1.5 stars (Poor):
You probably should not consider a product in this range or lower. There may be one or two specialized circumstances, however, that could justify the purchase of this product for a very low price for a specific demand.

2.0 to 2.9 = 1 star (Terrible):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores low on all of its rating criteria. It does not satisfy any of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful strengths.

1.0 to 1.9 = 1/2 star (Abysmal):
A product in this range should never have been produced. This product has no redeeming qualities and worse, may actually harm you or your productivity.

0 - 0.9 = 0 stars