2.1 CPU 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

 

 

Socket 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 dis- sipation. Make sure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fastened and in good contact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to the CPU FAN connector (CPU_FAN1, see Page 11, No. 4 or CPU_FAN2, see Page 11, No. 5). For proper installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of the CPU fan and the heatsink.

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ASRock A55iCafe manual CPU Installation, Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

A55iCafe specifications

The ASRock A55iCafe is a compact yet powerful motherboard designed for the AMD A-series APUs, catering primarily to users looking for a budget-friendly yet efficient solution for their computing needs. This micro ATX motherboard strikes a balance between affordability and advanced features, making it an attractive option for both casual users and gamers on a budget.

One of the main highlights of the ASRock A55iCafe is its support for AMD's FM2 socket, which is compatible with the A-series and Athlon processors. This allows users to leverage the rich graphics performance embedded in the APUs, making it an ideal choice for light gaming and multimedia tasks. Additionally, the motherboard supports dual-channel DDR3 memory, with a maximum capacity of up to 32GB, providing ample memory bandwidth for multitasking and demanding applications.

The A55iCafe also features a robust selection of connectivity options. It comes equipped with six SATA 3 connectors, allowing for high-speed data transfer with SSDs and HDDs. Moreover, it includes USB 3.0 ports, which provide faster data transfer rates compared to their USB 2.0 counterparts. The inclusion of HDMI and DVI ports facilitates seamless integration with high-definition displays, ensuring that users can enjoy crisp visuals for gaming and media consumption.

Another notable characteristic of the ASRock A55iCafe is its integrated audio capabilities. With the Realtek ALC662 audio codec, this motherboard provides high-definition audio output, enhancing the overall multimedia experience for users. It also features a 7.1 channel audio output option for those who want a more immersive experience.

The motherboard is designed with durability in mind, featuring high-quality capacitors and a robust power delivery system that ensures stable performance under load. Additionally, ASRock's proprietary technologies, such as XFast LAN, improve network performance by reducing latency, which is crucial for gamers and users who need a stable internet connection.

In conclusion, the ASRock A55iCafe stands out as an excellent choice for users looking to build a compact and cost-effective system. With its support for AMD APUs, generous connectivity options, integrated audio capabilities, and smart design features, it serves multiple purposes, from everyday computing to light gaming and media tasks. Whether you're a budget-conscious gamer, a multimedia enthusiast, or a casual user, the ASRock A55iCafe offers an impressive array of features tailored to your needs.