The ABIT BX133-RAID utilizes the Intel BX chipset for its renowned 100MHz FSB and overclocking performance and stability, and not for its list of up-to-date features. The BX chipset does support AGP 2X, a true 100 MHz FSB and ATA-33 data transfers. You will not find any newfangled options like quad USB, AGP 4X, on-board AC '97 sound or true PC133 functionality, though the ABIT BX133-RAID does add on a HighPoint controller that offers up to ATA-100 support. Since AGP 4X performance increases are spurious at best, the biggest issue against the Intel BX is the absence of a 1/2 AGP divider for standard AGP speeds on the 133 front-side bus (FSB). This is simply a limitation of the BX chipset, and should not been seen as a failing of the motherboard vendor. Still, with all of the Pentium III processors running on the 133 MHz FSB, not to mention potential overclocking of current 100 MHz FSB chips, it is a factor that needs to be properly weighed.

Although the BX133-RAID has features that set it apart from ABIT's current BX motherboards, its size is similar to other comparable boards. It checks in at 9”x12”, placing it at the mid to upper regions of the Intel landscape. Its nine-inch width is just slightly larger than similar BX motherboards, which is due to extra width of the FC-PGA socket over Slot 1, and the inclusion of two extra ATA-100 IDE ports. Still, you should not have any trouble installing the board, and its familiar look and feel will make upgrades a snap.

The ABIT BX133-RAID features a very standard one AGP/five PCI/one ISA design, and has enough potential expandability for all but the most demanding user. Due to its BX chipset, it is also refreshing to see a power user motherboard like the BX133-RAID ship without an AMR slot. The placement of the various expansion slots is also top notch, although ABIT has declined to make use of the PCB space for a shared sixth PCI slot, thereby losing the potential extra PCI slot in return for a smoother overall design. Since the HPT370 uses one PCI IRQ, this means that only four of the existing PCI slots support bus master devices. The placement of various jumpers and on-board connectors could have been better, and with a full complement of AGP and PCI cards, these on-board options can be difficult to reach.