Type

Use this item to configure the type of the IDE device that you specify. Configuration options: [Not Installed], [Auto], [CD/DVD], and [ARMD].

[Not Installed]: Select [Not Installed] to disable the use of IDE device.

[Auto]: Select [Auto] to automatically detect the hard disk drive.

After selecting the hard disk information into BIOS, use a disk utility, such as FDISK, to partition and format the new IDE hard disk drives. This is necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active.

[CD/DVD]:This is used for IDE CD/DVD drives.

[ARMD]: This is used for IDE ARMD (ATAPI Removable Media Device), such as MO.

LBA/Large Mode

Use this item to select the LBA/Large mode for a hard disk > 512 MB under DOS and Windows; for Netware and UNIX user, select [Disabled] to disable the LBA/Large mode.

Block (Multi-Sector Transfer)

The default value of this item is [Auto]. If this feature is enabled, it will enhance hard disk performance by reading or writing more data during each transfer.

PIO Mode

Use this item to set the PIO mode to enhance hard disk performance by optimizing the hard disk timing.

DMA Mode

DMA capability allows the improved transfer-speed and data-integrity for com- patible IDE devices.

S.M.A.R.T.

Use this item to enable or disable the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) feature. Configuration options: [Disabled], [Auto], [Enabled].

32Bit Data Transfer

Use this item to enable 32-bit access to maximize the IDE hard disk data transfer rate.

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.