Expansion Cards, Priority Standard function

2-5 Expansion Cards

2-5-1 Procedure For Expansion Card Installation

1.Read the documentation for your expansion card and make any necessary hardware or software setting for your expansion card such as jumpers.

2.Remove your computer’s cover and the bracket plate on the slot you intend to use.

3.Align the card’s connectors and press firmly.

4.Secure the card on the slot with the screen you remove above.

5.Replace the computer system’s cover.

6.Set up the BIOS if necessary.

7.Install the necessary software driver for your expansion card.

2-5-2 Assigning IRQs for Expansion Card

Some expansion cards need to set up the IRQ to operate. An IRQ must be assigned exclusively to single interface use only. There are 16 IRQs available but most of them are already being used.

Standard Interrupt Assignments

IRQ	Priority	Standard function
0	N/A	System Timer
1	N/A	Keyboard Controller
2	N/A	Programmable Interrupt
3 *	8	Communications Port (COM2)
4 *	9	Communications Port (COM1)
5 *	6	Sound Card (sometimes LPT2)
6 *	11	Floppy Disk Controller
7 *	7	Printer Port (LPT1)
8	N/A	System CMOS/Real Time Clock
9 *	10	ACPI Mode when enabled
10 *	3	IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
11 *	2	IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
12 *	4	PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port
13	N/A	Numeric Data Processor
14 *	5	Primary IDE Channel
15 *	1	Secondary IDE Channel

* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.

X58, ICH10R specifications

The Intel ICH10R and X58 chipset combination represents a significant advancement in motherboard technology, forming a critical backbone for high-performance computing. Highlighted for their versatility and expanded connectivity options, these components were instrumental in catering to the growing demands of power users and gamers alike.

The Intel ICH10R, or I/O Controller Hub, is distinguished by its support for advanced RAID configurations, specifically RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10. This feature allows users to enhance data redundancy and performance, making it a preferred choice for data-intensive applications. With a total of six SATA II ports, the ICH10R ensures extensive storage options for modern setups, enabling users to connect multiple hard drives and SSDs for superior performance and speed. Additionally, the ICH10R includes support for AHCI, which allows for advanced features like Native Command Queuing, improving overall storage efficiency.

On the other hand, the Intel X58 chipset was designed to support Intel's Core i7 processors, which utilize the LGA 1366 socket. This architecture offered a marked increase in memory bandwidth and efficiency, as it supports Triple Channel DDR3 memory. This allows for substantial memory throughput, essential for memory-heavy tasks like video editing, gaming, and scientific simulations. The X58 also supports up to 24 GB of RAM, accommodating the needs of even the most demanding users.

A notable feature of the X58 chipset is its ability to support multiple graphics cards through NVIDIA's SLI and AMD's CrossFire technologies, offering users the flexibility to create powerful multi-GPU setups. This capability enhances visual performance and image rendering, making it ideal for gaming enthusiasts seeking maximum frame rates.

Further enhancing the X58's utility are its numerous connectivity options, including USB 2.0 and support for PCI Express 2.0 lanes, allowing for a wide range of expansion cards. The chipset also integrates robust power management features, which help optimize energy consumption and ensure system stability under load.

In summary, the Intel ICH10R and X58 chipset combination provides an impressive array of features, technologies, and characteristics tailored for high-performance computing environments. With their support for RAID, advanced memory configurations, and multi-GPU setups, they remain a noteworthy choice for gamers and professionals seeking a powerful and flexible computing solution.