Intel GA-G31M-S2L, GA-G31M-S2C user manual Installation and Configuration

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Installation and Configuration

(The following procedure uses Windows XP as the example operating system.)

A. Installing Windows XP and Partitioning the Hard Drive

1.Set CD-ROM drive as the first boot device under "Advanced BIOS Features" in the BIOS Setup program. Save the changes and exit.

2.When partitioning your hard drive (Figure 1), make sure to leave unallocated space for Xpress Recovery2 (10 GB or more is recommended; actual size requirements vary, depending on the amount of data) (Figure 2).

Figure 1

Figure 2

3.Select a file system (for example, NTFS) and begin the installation of the operating system (Figure 3).

Figure 3

GA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard

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Contents GA-G31M-S2C Motherboard GA-G31M-S2C Copyright DisclaimerDocumentation Classifications Identifying Your Motherboard RevisionTable of Contents Regulatory Statements Box Contents GA-G31M-S2L/GA-G31M-S2C Motherboard Layout CPU CLK+ Page Hardware Installation Installation PrecautionsProduct Specifications CPU4 Mbit flash Page Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler Installing the CPUCPU Socket Lever Installing the CPU Cooler Installing the Memory Dual Channel Memory ConfigurationInstalling a Memory Installing an Expansion Card Back Panel Connectors Line In Jack Blue Line Out Jack GreenMic In Jack Pink Internal Connectors PwrledGND FDD Floppy Disk Drive Connector CPUFAN/SYSFAN Fan HeadersIDE IDE Connector SATAII0/1/2/3 Sata 3Gb/s Connectors, Controlled by ICH7Pwrled System Power LED Header BatbatteryFpanel Front Panel Header Cdin CD In Connector Faudio Front Panel Audio HeaderSpdifo S/PDIF Out Header FUSB1/FUSB2 USB HeadersClrcmos Clearing Cmos Jumper CI Chassis Intrusion HeaderGA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard Bios Setup Following screen may appear when the computer boots Startup ScreenSample Bios Version GA-G31M-S2L D9a Bios Setup Program Function KeysMain Menu „ Standard Cmos Features „ Advanced Bios Features„ Power Management Setup „ PnP/PCI ConfigurationsDate TimeIDE Channel 0 Master/Slave IDE Channel 2, 3 Master/SlaveFloppy 3 Mode Support Drive aHalt On MemoryHard Disk Boot Priority First/Second/Third Boot DevicePassword Check HDD S.M.A.R.T. CapabilityCPU Multi-Threading Note Limit Cpuid Max. to 3 NoteNo-Execute Memory Protect Note CPU Enhanced Halt C1E NoteInit Display First Onboard VGAOn-Chip Frame Buffer Size On-Chip Sata Mode On-Chip Primary PCI IDEPata IDE Set to Sata Port 0/2 Set toSmart LAN LAN Cable Diagnostic Function Sata Port 1/3 Set toUSB Controller USB 2.0 ControllerOnboard LAN Boot ROM Parallel Port ModeOnboard Serial Port Onboard Parallel PortPower On by Ring Soft-Off by PWR-BTTNPME Event Wake Up Resume by Alarm Hpet Mode NotePower On By Mouse Power On By KeyboardPnP/PCI Configurations PCI1 IRQ AssignmentPCI2 IRQ Assignment Reset Case Open Status Current CPU TemperatureCPU Warning Temperature Case OpenedRobust Graphics Booster CPU Clock Ratio NoteCPU Host Clock Control High Speed Dram DLL Settings CPU Host Frequency MhzPCI Express Frequency Mhz Performance EnhanceFSB OverVoltage Control CPU Voltage ControlNormal CPU Vcore Load Fail-Safe Defaults Load Optimized DefaultsSet Supervisor/User Password Save & Exit Setup Exit Without SavingDrivers Installation Installing Chipset DriversSoftware Applications Driver CD InformationHardware Information Contact UsGA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard Xpress Recovery2 Before You BeginSystem Requirements Installation and Configuration Installing Windows XP and Partitioning the Hard DrivePage Accessing Xpress Recovery2 Using the Backup Function in Xpress Recovery2Using the Restore Function in Xpress Recovery2 Removing the BackupExiting Xpress Recovery2 Bios Update Utilities Updating the Bios with the Q-Flash UtilityUpdating the Bios Load Optimized DefaultsSaveY/N?& ExitY Setup Updating the Bios with the @BIOS Utility Installing and Using @BIOSOptions and Instructions Update the Bios without Using the Internet Update Function EasyTune 5 Pro EasyTune 5 Pro Interface Button Information TableGA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard Configuring Audio Input and Output Configuring 2/4/5.1-Channel AudioConfiguring Speakers Speakers or Headphones Configuring Sound Effect Activating an AC97 Front Panel Audio ModuleMuting the Back Panel Audio For HD Audio Only Installing the S/PDIFOut Cable Optional Installing the S/PDIF Out CablePdif out Configuring S/PDIF out Configuring Microphone Recording Select Realtek HD Audio Input in the Mixer device list Using the Sound Recorder Recording the SoundPlaying the Sound Troubleshooting Frequently Asked QuestionsTroubleshooting Procedure StartEND Weee Symbol Statement Regulatory NoticesOur Commitment to Preserving the Environment China Restriction of Hazardous Substances Table GA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard Appendix GA-G31M-S2L/S2C Motherboard Contact Us B.T. INC USA MexicoGigabyte 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.