Intel D975XBX manual Installing a PCI Express x16 Card, Installing PCI Express Graphics Cards

Page 36

Intel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide

Installing a PCI Express x16 Card

If you are installing a single PCI Express Graphics card, install it in PCI Express connector 1 (see Figure 18, A) for optimum performance. However, if you are installing two PCI Express Graphics cards, install them in PCI Express connectors 1 and 2 (see Figure 18, B).

Follow these instructions to install any PCI Express x16 card:

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

2.Place the card in the PCI Express x16 connector.

3.Press down on the card until it is completely seated in the PCI Express x16 connector and the card retention notch snaps into place around the RM pin.

4.Secure the card’s metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw.

B

A

OM18187

Figure 18. Installing PCI Express Graphics Cards

36

Image 36
Contents Intel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide Revision History Revision Revision History DateFCC Declaration of Conformity Canadian Department of Communications Compliance StatementPreface Intended AudienceIntended Uses Information LayoutBox Contents TerminologyContents Bios Contents Regulatory ComplianceTables Desktop Board Features Feature SummaryPower Management Supported Operating SystemsPeripheral Interfaces Hardware ManagementDesktop Board Features Desktop Board ComponentsLabel Description Power Supply Requirements Platform Compatibility Guide Power Supply RequirementsProcessor Main MemoryIntel 975X Express Chipset Audio SubsystemInput/Output I/O Controller LAN SubsystemLAN Subsystem Software RJ-45 LAN Connector LEDs RJ-45 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN Connector LEDsHi-Speed USB 2.0 Support LED Color LED State IndicatesSerial ATA and IDE Auto Configuration Enhanced IDE InterfaceSerial ATA ExpandabilityPower Management Features PCI and PCI Express* Auto ConfigurationSecurity Passwords Chassis IntrusionFan Connectors Fan Speed Control Intel Precision Cooling TechnologySuspend to RAM Instantly Available PC Technology Resume on Ring Wake from USBWake from PS/2* Keyboard/Mouse PME# Wakeup SupportBattery SpeakerReal-Time Clock Intel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components Before You BeginInstallation Precautions Prevent Power Supply OverloadObserve Safety and Regulatory Requirements Installing the I/O Shield Installing and Replacing Desktop Board ComponentsInstalling and Removing the Desktop Board Location of Mounting Screw HolesInstalling and Removing a Processor Installing a ProcessorRemove the Protective Socket Cover Install the Processor Installing the Processor Fan Heat Sink Connecting the Processor Fan Heat Sink CableRemoving the Processor Installing and Removing Memory Guidelines for Dual Channel Memory ConfigurationTwo or Four DIMMs Installing DIMMs Three DIMMsDDR DDR2 Installing a Dimm Installing and Removing a PCI Express x16 Card Removing DIMMsInstalling a PCI Express x16 Card Installing PCI Express Graphics CardsRemoving the PCI Express x16 Card Removing the PCI Express x16 CardConnecting the IDE Cable Connecting the IDE CableConnecting the Serial ATA Cable Connecting Serial ATA CablesConnecting Internal Headers Item DescriptionFront Panel Audio Header Ieee 1394a HeaderUSB 2.0 Headers Alternate Front Panel Power LED Header Front Panel Header Signal NamesFront Panel Header Installing the Rear Panel USB 2.0 Adapter Connecting the Rear Panel USB 2.0 AdapterInstalling the Front Panel USB/IEEE 1394/Audio Adapter Connecting the Front Panel USB/IEEE 1394/Audio CablesConnecting Chassis Fan Cables Location of Fan HeadersConnecting Power Supply Cables Connecting 2x10 Power Supply CablesConnecting 2x12 Power Supply Cables Connecting 2x12 Power Supply CablesOther Connectors Location of Other ConnectorsSetting the Bios Configuration Jumper Jumper Settings for the Bios Setup Program ModesJumper Setting Mode Description Clearing Passwords Back Panel Connectors Back Panel ConnectorsReplacing the Battery PrecautionAvvertimento Awas Uyari Intel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide Accessing the Bios Setup Program Updating the BiosUpdating the Bios with the Iflash Memory Update Utility Obtaining the Bios Update FileUpdating the Bios Recovering the Bios Intel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide Configuring for RAID Intel Matrix Storage Technology Configuring the Bios for Intel Matrix Storage TechnologyCreating Your RAID Set Setting Up a RAID Ready System Installation and Configuration Intel Quick Resume Technology Driver Intel QrtdOverview Intel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide Intel Quick Resume Technology Driver Intel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide Error Messages and Indicators Bios Beep CodesBios Error Messages Bios Error MessagesIntel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide Safety Regulations Place Battery MarkingSafety Regulations Regulatory ComplianceEuropean Union Declaration of Conformity Statement Product Ecology Statements Recycling ConsiderationsRegulatory Compliance Français Lead-Free Desktop Board Lead-Free Board MarkingsEMC Regulations EMC RegulationsEnsure Electromagnetic Compatibility EMC Compliance Product Certifications Board-Level Certification MarkingsProduct Certification Markings Chassis and Component Certifications EuropeIntel Desktop Board D975XBX Product Guide

D975XBX specifications

The Intel D975XBX motherboard, also known as the "Bad Axe," is a high-performance platform designed for enthusiasts and gamers who demand exceptional computing power and advanced features. Launched in the mid-2000s, this motherboard is built around the Intel 975X chipset, which supports Intel's Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Extreme processors. The D975XBX was particularly noted for its capabilities in overclocking, making it a popular choice among PC builders and gamers looking to maximize performance.

One of the standout features of the Intel D975XBX is its support for dual-channel DDR2 memory. The motherboard has four DIMM slots, allowing users to install up to 8GB of RAM, with speeds up to 800 MHz. This high memory bandwidth significantly enhances system performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming scenarios. Additionally, the board supports Advanced Memory Protection technologies like ECC (Error-Correcting Code) when used with compatible memory modules.

Storage connectivity is another strong point of the D975XBX. It features six SATA II ports, providing ample room for multiple hard drives or solid-state drives. This is complemented by support for Intel Matrix Storage Technology, which allows for RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations, ensuring data integrity and improved performance through redundancy. For those who prefer legacy support, the motherboard also includes an IDE port for connecting older drives.

In terms of graphics capabilities, the D975XBX has two PCI Express x16 slots, enabling users to install multiple graphics cards for enhanced performance in gaming or graphic design applications. The board also supports CrossFire technology, allowing for dual graphics card configurations from AMD.

The Intel D975XBX is equipped with an array of onboard features, including seven USB 2.0 ports, a dual Gigabit Ethernet controller for high-speed networking, and 7.1 surround sound audio support, making it versatile for various multimedia applications. The board's BIOS includes a user-friendly interface and comprehensive overclocking options, allowing users to fine-tune system settings for optimal performance.

Overall, the Intel D975XBX remains a noteworthy option for those interested in building a powerful PC. Its solid feature set, support for legacy technologies, and overclocking potential continue to attract enthusiasts looking for a reliable and high-performance motherboard. Whether for gaming, multimedia tasks, or everyday computing, the D975XBX delivers a well-rounded experience that has stood the test of time.