Connecting the IDE Cable

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

The IDE cable can connect two drives to the desktop board. The cable supports the ATA-133 transfer protocol. Figure 16 shows the correct installation of the cable.

NOTES

ATA-133 compatible cables are backward compatible with drives using slower IDE transfer protocols. If an ATA-133 disk drive and a disk drive using any other IDE transfer protocol are attached to the same cable, the maximum transfer rate between the drives may be reduced to that of the slowest drive.

Do not connect an ATA device as a slave on the same IDE cable as an ATAPI master device. For example, do not connect an ATA hard drive as a slave to an ATAPI CD-ROM drive.

For correct function of the cable:

•Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 23.

•Attach the cable end with the single connector (blue) to the Intel desktop board (Figure 16).

•Attach the cable end with the two closely spaced connectors (gray and black) to the drives.

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Figure 16. Connecting the IDE Cable

D101GGC specifications

The Intel D101GGC is a micro ATX motherboard that caters primarily to entry-level computing needs, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users or those building basic systems. Designed to support Intel Core 2 Duo processors, the D101GGC offers a reliable platform for everyday tasks, multimedia applications, and light gaming.

One of the key features of the D101GGC is its support for Intel's 945GC chipset, which provides a solid foundation for performance. This chipset allows for efficient handling of various computing tasks while ensuring compatibility with a broad range of Intel processors. The motherboard supports up to 4 GB of DDR2 RAM across two DIMM slots, enhancing multitasking capabilities and overall performance.

When it comes to graphics, the D101GGC includes integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950, which provides decent visual quality for standard applications and light gaming. Additionally, the motherboard features a PCI Express x16 slot, allowing users to upgrade to a dedicated graphics card for improved performance in games and graphic-intensive applications.

Storage capabilities are another highlight of the D101GGC, as it supports up to four SATA II connections for modern hard drives and SSDs. This enables users to take advantage of faster data transfer speeds for improved system responsiveness and quicker load times. Legacy support is also present with an IDE connector for older devices, ensuring compatibility with a variety of storage solutions.

Connectivity options on the D101GGC include a range of USB ports, including USB 2.0, which allows users to connect multiple peripherals with ease. The motherboard also includes integrated Ethernet capabilities, facilitating easy networking without requiring additional hardware.

In terms of form factor, the micro ATX design of the D101GGC makes it suitable for a variety of cases, allowing for flexible installations. Its layout is user-friendly, facilitating straightforward assembly and upgrades.

Overall, the Intel D101GGC is a reliable and cost-effective choice for users seeking to build a basic computing system. Its combination of essential features, support for modern technologies, and upgrade potential make it an ideal option for budget builds, casual users, and those looking for a solid foundation for everyday computing tasks.