Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

2Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

This chapter tells you how to:

•Install the I/O shield

•Install and remove the Desktop Board

•Install and remove a processor

•Install and remove memory

•Install and remove a PCI Express x16 card

•Connect the diskette drive cable

•Connect the IDE and Serial ATA cables

•Connect to the internal headers

•Connect to the onboard audio system

•Connect chassis fan and power supply cables

•Set the BIOS configuration jumper

•Clear passwords

•Replace the battery

Before You Begin

CAUTIONS

The procedures in this chapter assume familiarity with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment.

Disconnect the computer from its power source and from any telecommunications links, networks, or modems before performing any of the procedures described in this chapter. Failure to disconnect power, telecommunications links, networks, or modems before you open the computer or perform any procedures can result in personal injury or equipment damage. Some circuitry on the board can continue to operate even though the front panel power button is off.

Follow these guidelines before you begin:

•Always follow the steps in each procedure in the correct order.

•Set up a log to record information about your computer, such as model, serial numbers, installed options, and configuration information.

•Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage components. Perform the procedures described in this chapter only at an ESD workstation using an antistatic wrist strap and a conductive foam pad. If such a station is not available, you can provide some ESD protection by wearing an antistatic wrist strap and attaching it to a metal part of the computer chassis.

DG35EC, Intel Desktop Board specifications

The Intel Desktop Board DG35EC is a versatile and reliable motherboard designed for the Intel Core 2 Processor family. Launched in the mid-2000s, it became known for its solid performance and robust feature set aimed at both general computing and home entertainment needs.

One of the standout features of the DG35EC is its support for the Intel Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Quad processors. With LGA775 socket compatibility, it allows users to take advantage of the multi-core architecture for improved multitasking capabilities and overall performance. The board supports a maximum memory capacity of 8GB using DDR2 RAM, offering dual-channel architecture for enhanced memory bandwidth, which is crucial for tasks that require significant data processing.

The DG35EC is built with Intel's G35 Express chipset, which integrates several key technologies to enhance user experience. This chipset combines graphics and memory functionality, allowing for seamless multimedia playback and enabling support for DirectX 10. The integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3000 delivers decent graphics performance for day-to-day applications and light gaming, which was impressive at the time of its release.

This desktop board also boasts a suite of connectivity options. It features six SATA 3Gb/s ports for fast data transfer with compatible hard drives and SSDs, enhancing system responsiveness. Additionally, it includes a wide array of USB 2.0 ports, enabling users to connect multiple peripherals, such as external storage devices, printers, and keyboards without the need for expansion cards.

For audio capabilities, the DG35EC is equipped with Intel High Definition Audio, providing immersive sound quality for multimedia applications and improved audio fidelity for high-definition content. This feature was particularly appealing for users who enjoyed media consumption on their desktop systems.

The board is also designed with various expansion slots, including PCI Express x16 for graphics cards, and several PCI slots for legacy devices, thus ensuring compatibility with a wide range of hardware. The compact ATX form factor makes it suitable for a variety of cases while providing sufficient room for expansion.

Overall, Intel's DG35EC Desktop Board stands out for its reliable performance and feature set tailored for everyday computing and multimedia applications, making it a solid choice for users looking to build a functional and efficient desktop system.