The ION chipset matches an Intel Atom processor and an Nvidia 9400M video card in a step to allow netbooks to stream video at resolutions of up to 1080p.  It comes in two flavors currently with one which will support DirectX 10 games under Windows 7 and one which won’t.

By hacking the video card, you’re able to squeak more performance and stream video much better.  It turns out that Nvidia underclocked their cards in order to ensure that they don’t violate Microsoft’s description of what a “netbook” can be.

According to Netbookchoice.com:

Remember, you cannot play DX10 games on Windows XP, so to get the most out of this hack, you would need to install Windows 7. You also get a significant performance boost over the stock ION LE. runawayprisoner talks of a 50 percent increase in the GPU for some DX9 games. His Windows Experience Index score for 3D performance also increased from 3.9 to 5.4 (check out the screen grab below). Another member, solarnoise, has seen his 3DMark06 performance increase by 300 points (not to be sniffed at!)

This is the same thing which is seen in Intel integrated graphics.  This means that netbook owners will be able to make some changes to extend the life of their computer.

1. AMD Congo Vs. Intel Atom Vs. Intel CULV

2. ATI HD3200 Vs. Nvidia ION (9400)

3. Intel + Broadcom = Pine Trail M HD Netbook Chip

4. Netbooks CPUs Get Compared, Charted For Your Viewing Pleasure

5. GMA500 Based Netbooks Get A Boost