Intel GA-G31M-S2C, GA-G31M-S2L user manual Hardware Installation, Installation Precautions

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Chapter 1 Hardware Installation

1-1 Installation Precautions

The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can become damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). Prior to installation, carefully read the user's manual and follow these procedures:

Prior to installation, do not remove or break motherboard S/N (Serial Number) sticker or warranty sticker provided by your dealer. These stickers are required for warranty validation.

Always remove the AC power by unplugging the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing the motherboard or other hardware components.

When connecting hardware components to the internal connectors on the motherboard, make sure they are connected tightly and securely.

When handling the motherboard, avoid touching any metal leads or connectors.

It is best to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling electronic components such as a motherboard, CPU or memory. If you do not have an ESD wrist strap, keep your hands dry and first touch a metal object to eliminate static electricity.

Prior to installing the motherboard, please have it on top of an antistatic pad or within an electrostatic shielding container.

Before unplugging the power supply cable from the motherboard, make sure the power supply has been turned off.

Before turning on the power, make sure the power supply voltage has been set according to the local voltage standard.

Before using the product, please verify that all cables and power connectors of your hardware components are connected.

To prevent damage to the motherboard, do not allow screws to come in contact with the motherboard circuit or its components.

Make sure there are no leftover screws or metal components placed on the motherboard or within the computer casing.

Do not place the computer system on an uneven surface.

Do not place the computer system in a high-temperature environment.

Turning on the computer power during the installation process can lead to damage to system components as well as physical harm to the user.

If you are uncertain about any installation steps or have a problem related to the use of the product, please consult a certified computer technician.

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Hardware Installation

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Contents GA-G31M-S2C Motherboard GA-G31M-S2C Identifying Your Motherboard Revision CopyrightDisclaimer Documentation ClassificationsTable of Contents Regulatory Statements Box Contents GA-G31M-S2L/GA-G31M-S2C Motherboard Layout CPU CLK+ Page Installation Precautions Hardware InstallationCPU Product Specifications4 Mbit flash Page Installing the CPU Installing the CPU and CPU CoolerCPU Socket Lever Installing the CPU Cooler Dual Channel Memory Configuration Installing the MemoryInstalling a Memory Installing an Expansion Card Back Panel Connectors Mic In Jack Pink Line In Jack BlueLine Out Jack Green Pwrled Internal ConnectorsGND CPUFAN/SYSFAN Fan Headers FDD Floppy Disk Drive ConnectorSATAII0/1/2/3 Sata 3Gb/s Connectors, Controlled by ICH7 IDE IDE ConnectorBatbattery Pwrled System Power LED HeaderFpanel Front Panel Header Faudio Front Panel Audio Header Cdin CD In ConnectorFUSB1/FUSB2 USB Headers Spdifo S/PDIF Out HeaderCI Chassis Intrusion Header Clrcmos Clearing Cmos JumperGA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard Bios Setup Startup Screen Following screen may appear when the computer bootsMain Menu Sample Bios Version GA-G31M-S2L D9aBios Setup Program Function Keys „ PnP/PCI Configurations „ Standard Cmos Features„ Advanced Bios Features „ Power Management SetupIDE Channel 2, 3 Master/Slave DateTime IDE Channel 0 Master/SlaveMemory Floppy 3 Mode SupportDrive a Halt OnHDD S.M.A.R.T. Capability Hard Disk Boot PriorityFirst/Second/Third Boot Device Password CheckCPU Enhanced Halt C1E Note CPU Multi-Threading NoteLimit Cpuid Max. to 3 Note No-Execute Memory Protect NoteOn-Chip Frame Buffer Size Init Display FirstOnboard VGA Sata Port 0/2 Set to On-Chip Sata ModeOn-Chip Primary PCI IDE Pata IDE Set toUSB 2.0 Controller Smart LAN LAN Cable Diagnostic FunctionSata Port 1/3 Set to USB ControllerOnboard Parallel Port Onboard LAN Boot ROMParallel Port Mode Onboard Serial PortPME Event Wake Up Power On by RingSoft-Off by PWR-BTTN Power On By Keyboard Resume by AlarmHpet Mode Note Power On By MousePCI2 IRQ Assignment PnP/PCI ConfigurationsPCI1 IRQ Assignment Case Opened Reset Case Open StatusCurrent CPU Temperature CPU Warning TemperatureCPU Host Clock Control Robust Graphics BoosterCPU Clock Ratio Note Performance Enhance High Speed Dram DLL SettingsCPU Host Frequency Mhz PCI Express Frequency MhzNormal CPU Vcore FSB OverVoltage ControlCPU Voltage Control Load Optimized Defaults Load Fail-Safe DefaultsSet Supervisor/User Password Exit Without Saving Save & Exit SetupInstalling Chipset Drivers Drivers InstallationDriver CD Information Software ApplicationsContact Us Hardware InformationGA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard System Requirements Xpress Recovery2Before You Begin Installing Windows XP and Partitioning the Hard Drive Installation and ConfigurationPage Using the Backup Function in Xpress Recovery2 Accessing Xpress Recovery2Exiting Xpress Recovery2 Using the Restore Function in Xpress Recovery2Removing the Backup Updating the Bios with the Q-Flash Utility Bios Update UtilitiesUpdating the Bios Load Optimized DefaultsSaveY/N?& ExitY Setup Options and Instructions Updating the Bios with the @BIOS UtilityInstalling and Using @BIOS Update the Bios without Using the Internet Update Function EasyTune 5 Pro Interface Button Information Table EasyTune 5 ProGA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard Configuring Speakers Configuring Audio Input and OutputConfiguring 2/4/5.1-Channel Audio Speakers or Headphones Muting the Back Panel Audio For HD Audio Only Configuring Sound EffectActivating an AC97 Front Panel Audio Module Pdif out Installing the S/PDIFOut Cable OptionalInstalling the S/PDIF Out Cable Configuring S/PDIF out Configuring Microphone Recording Select Realtek HD Audio Input in the Mixer device list Playing the Sound Using the Sound RecorderRecording the Sound Frequently Asked Questions TroubleshootingStart Troubleshooting ProcedureEND Our Commitment to Preserving the Environment Weee Symbol StatementRegulatory Notices China Restriction of Hazardous Substances Table GA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard Appendix GA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard B.T. INC USA Mexico Contact UsGigabyte Global Service System

GA-G31M-S2C, GA-G31M-S2L specifications

The Intel GA-G31M-S2L and GA-G31M-S2C are motherboards that represent a blend of innovation and reliability in the realm of computing. Designed by Gigabyte, these motherboards cater predominantly to budget-conscious consumers, gamers, and professionals seeking a stable platform for their computing needs. Powered by the Intel G31 chipset, these models support Intel's LGA 775 socket processors, which include the Pentium and Core 2 Duo series, making them versatile options for various applications.

One of the standout features of the GA-G31M-S2L and GA-G31M-S2C is their support for DDR2 memory with a maximum capacity of 4GB. This makes them suitable for running multiple applications simultaneously, providing users with a smoother multitasking experience. The motherboards support a dual-channel memory architecture, maximizing memory bandwidth, which is critical for performance-demanding applications and tasks.

In terms of connectivity, both models boast an array of ports, including USB 2.0 and Serial ATA (SATA) interfaces. This allows users to connect various peripherals and storage devices seamlessly. Additionally, the GA-G31M-S2C variant offers integrated graphics powered by Intel’s GMA 3100, providing a decent graphical performance for casual users who may not require a dedicated graphics card. Meanwhile, the GA-G31M-S2L can be fitted with a dedicated GPU for enhanced gaming experiences.

The motherboards also feature Gigabyte's renowned Ultra Durable technology, which incorporates durable capacitors, solid-state chokes, and a robust PCB design. This ensures enhanced stability and longevity, making them ideal for long-term use. Another noteworthy aspect is their support for PCI Express slots, enabling users to upgrade their systems with additional hardware, such as graphics cards or network adapters.

Security features are not overlooked, with options for BIOS-level protection that helps safeguard the motherboard from unauthorized access. The GA-G31M-S2L and GA-G31M-S2C are also equipped with an easy-to-use BIOS interface, allowing users to tweak settings for optimal performance.

In summary, the Intel GA-G31M-S2L and GA-G31M-S2C motherboards deliver a solid foundation for both everyday computing and more demanding tasks. With their blend of essential features, connectivity options, and durability, they stand out as reliable choices for users looking to build or upgrade their systems using the Intel LGA 775 platform. These motherboards embody a practical approach to computing, ensuring users have access to the necessary tools to achieve their goals.