Appendix

Glossary

reconfigure your system each time you add or change any part of your hardware.

The term RAM (Random Access Memory), while technically referring to a type of memory where any byte can be accessed without touching the adjacent data, is often used to refer to the system’s main memory. This memory is available to any program running on the computer.

ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a storage chip which contains the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), the basic instructions required to boot the computer and start up the operating system.

SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic RAM) is so-called because it can keep two sets of memory addresses open simultaneously. By transferring data alter- nately from one set of addresses, and then the other, SDRAM cuts down on the delays associated with non-synchronous RAM, which must close one address bank before opening the next.

The serial port is so called because it transmits the eight bits of a byte of data along one wire, and receives data on another single wire (that is, the data is transmitted in serial form, one bit after another).

SIMM Single In-line Memory Modules are the most common form of RAM. They must be installed in pairs, and do not have the carrying capacity or the speed of DIMMs.

SIMM bank/socket SIMM sockets are the physical slots into which you stick SIMM modules. A pair of SIMM sockets form a SIMM bank, and act as a unit. If only one socket is filled, the bank will not operate.

In Sleep/Suspend mode, all devices except the CPU shut down.

SRAM Static RAM, unlike DRAM, does not need to be refreshed in order to prevent data loss. Thus, it is faster, and more expensive.

In Standby mode, the video and fixed disk drive shut down; all other devices operate normally.

UltraDMA/66 is a fast version of the old DMA channel. UltraDMA is also called UltraATA. Without UltraDMA your system cannot take advantage of the higher data transmission rates of the new UltraATA hard drives.

http://www.tyan.com

S1854 specifications

The Tyan Computer S1854 is a powerful motherboard designed specifically for demanding server and workstation applications. As a part of Tyan's extensive lineup, the S1854 stands out for its balance of performance, reliability, and expandability, making it an attractive option for businesses and professionals requiring robust computational capabilities.

One of the key features of the S1854 is its support for dual Intel Xeon processors. This design allows users to harness the power of up to 16 cores, which is essential for high-performance tasks such as virtualization, scientific simulations, and large data processing. The motherboard supports Intel's latest Xeon E5-2600 series CPUs, providing cutting-edge performance along with advanced features like Turbo Boost and Hyper-Threading.

The Tyan S1854 is built on the Intel C602 chipset, further enhancing its capabilities. The chipset offers reliable data transfers, increased memory bandwidth, and improved power management features. With support for up to 512 GB of ECC DDR3 memory across eight DIMM slots, the motherboard ensures data integrity and stability, which are critical for mission-critical applications.

Another important characteristic is the array of expansion options provided by the S1854. The motherboard includes multiple PCI Express slots, allowing for the installation of high-speed network cards, storage controllers, and GPU accelerators. This flexibility is essential for businesses that require customized configurations to meet their specific workload demands.

In terms of storage, the S1854 features an impressive variety of connectivity options, including six SATA III ports for standard hard drives and SSDs, as well as support for RAID configurations. This capability ensures data redundancy and improved performance, which are vital for server environments.

The S1854 is also designed with energy efficiency in mind. Tyan employs advanced thermal management technologies, including strategically placed heatsinks and fan headers, to ensure optimal cooling in even the most demanding conditions. This design reduces overall power consumption, leading to cost savings in operational budgets.

Overall, the Tyan Computer S1854 delivers a blend of performance, scalability, and reliability. Its support for dual Xeon processors, high-capacity ECC memory, extensive expansion capabilities, and energy-efficient design make it an ideal choice for businesses and professionals seeking a robust foundation for their computing needs. Whether in data centers or high-performance workstations, the S1854 is engineered to excel.