What is different about the “new” TGX and TGX+?
There’s a line you’re supposed to quote at this point that goes something like “In accordance with Sun’s policy of constant improvement…” The “old” TGX had the part number 501-2325; the new one has the part number 501-2922. The only difference between them is that the packaging of the ASIC has changed from Ceramic PGA to Plastic BGA. There is no logic or performance change and it uses the same PROM which reports the old part and chip rev numbers. Similarly, the old TGX+ had part number 501-2253, while the new one has part number 501-2955. Once again, only the packaging of the chips – in this case both the ASIC and the RAMDAC – has changed. The only way to tell the difference is to visually inspect the boards. The new style has a smaller sleeker green and black package; the older style is the obvious purple-brown ceramic square. These changes provide a significant cost reduction without impacting quality.
