2.6 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)

There are 2 PCI slots and 5 PCI Express slots on this motherboard.

PCI slots: PCI slots are used to install expansion cards that have the 32-bit PCI interface.

PCIE slots:PCIE1 (PCIE 2.0 x1 slot) is used for a PCI Express x1 lane width card, such as a Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card or ASRock Game Blaster, etc. PCIE3 (PCIE 2.0 x1 slot) is used for a PCI Express x1 lane width card, such as a Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card, etc.

PCIE2 (PCIE 3.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x16 lane width graphics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support CrossFireXTM function.

PCIE4 (PCIE 3.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x8 lane width graph- ics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support CrossFi- reXTM function.

PCIE5 (PCIE 2.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x4 lane width graph- ics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support 3-Way CrossFireXTM.

1.In single VGA card mode, it is recommended to install a PCI Express x16 graphics card on PCIE2 slot.

2.In CrossFireXTM mode, please install the PCI Express x16 graphics cards on PCIE2 and PCIE4 slots. Therefore, both these two slots will work at x8 bandwidth.

3.In 3-Way CrossFireXTM mode, please install PCI Express x16 graphics cards on PCIE2, PCIE4 and PCIE5 slots. Therefore, PCIE2 and PCIE4 slots will work at x8 bandwidth while PCIE5 slot will work at x4 bandwidth.

4.Please connect a chassis fan to the motherboard’s chassis fan connector (CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2 or CHA_FAN3) when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

5.Only PCIE2 and PCIE4 slots support Gen 3 speed. To run the PCI Express in Gen 3 speed, please install an Ivy Bridge CPU. If you install a Sandy Bridge CPU, the PCI Express will run only at PCI Express Gen 2 speed.

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ASRock C216 WS manual Expansion Slots PCI and PCI Express Slots

C216 WS specifications

The ASRock C216 WS motherboard is designed for professionals and businesses seeking reliable performance and advanced features for their workstation systems. With its support for Intel's 4th generation Core processors and Xeon E3 series, the C216 WS provides a powerful platform for demanding applications, including content creation, data analysis, and intensive multitasking.

One of the standout features of the ASRock C216 WS is its dual-channel memory support, accommodating up to 32GB of DDR3 ECC and non-ECC memory. This capability enhances system stability and data integrity, making it particularly well-suited for mission-critical tasks. The motherboard features four DIMM slots, allowing users to take advantage of higher memory bandwidth for improved performance in memory-intensive applications.

In terms of connectivity, the C216 WS is equipped with multiple PCIe slots, allowing for the expansion of graphics cards, storage devices, and other peripherals. It features one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, and two PCIe 2.0 x1 slots, providing flexibility for customization. Additionally, users can benefit from integrated graphics support with Intel's processors, enabling a more cost-effective solution for graphics rendering without the need for a dedicated GPU.

Storage options on the ASRock C216 WS are extensive, with six SATA3 ports supporting RAID configurations, including RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10. This feature allows businesses to implement robust data redundancy and performance optimization strategies. Furthermore, the motherboard offers M.2 support, enabling faster solid-state drives for improved data access speeds.

The ASRock C216 WS also incorporates a range of advanced technologies for enhanced productivity and efficiency. Its integrated Intel IO Controller offers high-speed USB 3.0 ports, ensuring swift data transfer rates for external devices. Additionally, the motherboard includes Realtek ALC662 HD audio, providing high-definition sound quality for multimedia applications.

For enhanced durability and long-term reliability, the ASRock C216 WS is built with premium capacitors and a sturdy power design, ensuring stable power delivery even under heavy workloads. Its comprehensive thermal management solutions, including multiple fan headers, help maintain optimal operating temperatures, contributing to the overall longevity of the components.

In summary, the ASRock C216 WS is a feature-rich motherboard tailored for workstations that demand high performance and reliability. With its powerful processor support, extensive memory options, versatile expansion slots, and robust connectivity, it is an ideal choice for professionals looking to build a dependable workstation for intensive tasks.