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Chapter 2 BIOS Setup

BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) includes a CMOS SETUP utility which allows user to configure required settings or to activate certain system features.

The CMOS SETUP saves the configuration in the CMOS SRAM of the motherboard.

When the power is turned off, the battery on the motherboard supplies the necessary power to the CMOS SRAM.

When the power is turned on, pushing the <Del> button during the BIOS POST (Power-On Self Test) will take you to the CMOS SETUP screen. You can enter the BIOS setup screen by pressing "Ctrl + F1". When setting up BIOS for the first time, it is recommended that you save the current BIOS to a disk in the event that BIOS needs to be reset to its original settings. If you wish to upgrade to a new BIOS, either GIGABYTE's Q-Flash or @BIOS utility can be used.

Q-Flash allows the user to quickly and easily update or backup BIOS without entering the operating system. @BIOS is a Windows-based utility that does not require users to boot to DOS before upgrading BIOS but directly download and update BIOS from the Internet.

CONTROL KEYS

< > < > < > <	> Move to select item
<Enter>	Select Item
<Esc>	Main Menu - Quit and not save changes into CMOS Status Page Setup Menu
	and Option Page Setup Menu - Exit current page and return to Main Menu
<Page Up>	Increase the numeric value or make changes
<Page Down>	Decrease the numeric value or make changes
<F1>	General help, only for Status Page Setup Menu and Option Page Setup Menu
<F2>	Item Help
<F5>	Restore the previous CMOS value from CMOS, only for Option Page Setup Menu
<F7>	Load the Optimized Defaults
<F8>	Q-Flash utility
<F9>	System Information
<F10>	Save all the CMOS changes, only for Main Menu

The on-line description of the highlighted setup function is displayed at the bottom of the screen.

Status Page Setup Menu / Option Page Setup Menu

Press <F1> to pop up a small help window that describes the appropriate keys to use and the possible selections for the highlighted item. To exit the Help Window press <Esc>.

English

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BIOS Setup

GA-K8NE specifications

The Gigabyte GA-K8NE is a motherboard that stands out in the realm of Socket 754-based systems, catering primarily to AMD's Athlon 64 and Sempron processors. Renowned for its stability and reliability, the GA-K8NE is ideal for users seeking to build a budget-friendly yet robust computing solution.

One of the main features of the GA-K8NE is its support for single-channel DDR400 memory, accommodating up to 2GB of RAM. This allows for decent multitasking capabilities, making it suitable for various applications from basic computing tasks to more demanding multimedia processing. The motherboard features two DIMM slots, ensuring flexibility in memory upgrades.

In terms of connectivity, the GA-K8NE is equipped with an array of PCI slots, including a PCI Express x16 slot for dedicated graphics cards. The inclusion of a Gigabit Ethernet controller enables high-speed internet access, essential for both gaming and media streaming. Additionally, users can take advantage of multiple USB 2.0 ports for peripheral connectivity, enhancing overall usability.

The GA-K8NE also includes a variety of storage options, featuring four SATA connectors for modern hard drives along with PATA options for legacy devices. This versatility ensures that users can integrate both contemporary and older storage technologies seamlessly.

When it comes to audio, the motherboard is integrated with Realtek's ALC655 chipset, providing 6-channel audio output. This feature enriches the multimedia experience, making it suitable for home theater setups or gaming applications where sound quality is paramount.

Another notable technology included in the GA-K8NE is Gigabyte's patented DualBIOS technology, which provides an extra layer of security against BIOS failures. Should a primary BIOS be corrupted, the backup BIOS can auto-recover, ensuring reliable system operation and peace of mind for users.

With its balance of performance, capacity for upgradeability, and key features like robust audio and solid networking capabilities, the Gigabyte GA-K8NE remains a commendable choice for budget-conscious users looking to build a capable home or office PC. Its combination of technological advancements and practical features makes it a noteworthy option in the competitive motherboard market.