CPU Installation | ASRock N68-VS3 FX manual

2.1CPU Installation

Step 1. Unlock the socket by lifting the lever up to a 90o angle.

Step 2. Position the CPU directly above the socket such that the CPU corner with the golden triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle.

Step 3. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.

The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to avoid bending of the pins.

Step 4. When the CPU is in place, press it firmly on the socket while you push down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked.

Lever 90° Up
	CPU Golden Triangle
	Socker Corner Small Triangle
STEP 1:	STEP 2 / STEP 3:	STEP 4:
Lift Up The Socket Lever	Match The CPU Golden Triangle	Push Down And Lock
	To The Socket Corner Small	The Socket Lever
	Triangle

2.2 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

After you install the CPU into this motherboard, it is necessary to install a larger heatsink and cooling fan to dissipate heat. You also need to spray thermal grease between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat dissipation. Make sure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fas- tened and in good contact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to the CPU FAN connector (CPU_FAN1, see Page 11, No. 2). For proper installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of the CPU fan and the heatsink.

N68-VS3 FX specifications

The ASRock N68-VS3 FX is a robust and versatile motherboard designed to support AMD processors, particularly the AM3+ series, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious gamers and PC builders. This micro ATX motherboard brings together a plethora of features and technologies that ensure reliable performance and efficient functionality suitable for everyday use and multimedia tasks.

One of the standout features of the ASRock N68-VS3 FX is its support for a wide range of AMD CPUs, enabling users to tap into the performance capabilities of processors such as the AMD FX series. The motherboard comes equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce 6150 SE graphics chipset, which allows for decent integrated graphics performance – an essential aspect for users who may not want to invest in a standalone GPU initially. The board has a PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot to accommodate discrete graphics cards, which adds versatility for users looking to enhance their gaming experience.

In terms of memory, the ASRock N68-VS3 FX supports up to 16GB of DDR3 RAM, with speeds ranging from 1066 to 1800 MHz, allowing for efficient multitasking and smoother operation when running demanding applications. The motherboard features two DIMM slots, which offer flexibility in memory configurations, catering to various user needs.

Storage options on the ASRock N68-VS3 FX are plentiful. The motherboard includes four SATA II ports, offering ample connectivity for multiple hard drives and SSDs. This ensures fast data transfer speeds, crucial for loading applications and operating systems quickly. Additionally, the board provides support for RAID 0, RAID 1, and JBOD configurations, giving users control over their data strategies.

Connectivity is another critical aspect of the ASRock N68-VS3 FX, featuring several USB 2.0 ports for peripheral devices. The rear I/O panel includes VGA and HDMI outputs, allowing users to connect displays with ease, showcasing the board's multimedia capabilities. Furthermore, the on-board Realtek ALC662 audio codec delivers decent sound quality, making it suitable for gaming and multimedia consumption.

Overall, the ASRock N68-VS3 FX balances affordability with essential features, making it an attractive choice for novice builders and those looking for dependable performance without breaking the bank. The motherboard's compatibility with various AMD processors and its range of expansion options make it a practical foundation for a capable desktop system.