Chapter 2: Installation

This is a micro ATX form factor (9.6" x 9.6", 24.4 x 24.4 cm) motherboard. Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.

Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so may cause physical injuries to you and damages to motherboard components.

2.1 Screw Holes

Place screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

Do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may damage the motherboard.

2.2 Pre-installation Precautions

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.

1.Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any components.

2.To avoid damaging the motherboard’s components due to static electricity, NEVER place your motherboard directly on the carpet or the like. Also remember to use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safety grounded object before you handle the components.

3.Hold components by the edges and do not touch the ICs.

4.Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded anti- static pad or in the bag that comes with the component.

5.When placing screws into the screw holes to secure the mother- board to the chassis, please do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may damage the motherboard.

Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the power is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.

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ASRock H77 Pro4-M manual Screw Holes, Pre-installation Precautions

H77 Pro4-M specifications

The ASRock H77 Pro4-M is an ATX motherboard designed to cater to the needs of budget-conscious gamers and professionals looking for reliable performance. This motherboard is built on the Intel H77 chipset, making it compatible with Intel's 3rd and 2nd generation Core processors, offering excellent performance for varied computing tasks.

One of the standout features of the ASRock H77 Pro4-M is its support for dual-channel DDR3 memory, accommodating up to 32GB with speeds ranging from 1066MHz to 2400MHz. This flexibility allows users to enhance their systems for multitasking or gaming, ensuring smooth operation even under load. Additionally, the motherboard is equipped with four DIMM slots, providing ample room for memory expansion.

Storage options are robust, with the H77 Pro4-M supporting SATA III, which allows for data transfer speeds of up to 6Gbps. It includes six SATA III ports, ensuring ample connectivity for SSDs and HDDs, perfect for setting up a high-speed storage solution. Additionally, the motherboard supports Intel Smart Response Technology, combining the advantages of both SSDs and HDDs for improved performance.

Connectivity is another strong suit of the ASRock H77 Pro4-M. It features USB 3.0 ports, which provide faster data transfer rates than their predecessors, while still maintaining compatibility with USB 2.0 devices. The motherboard comes with a total of four USB 3.0 ports, allowing users to connect multiple high-speed peripherals simultaneously. Furthermore, the inclusion of HDMI and DVI-D ports enables users to experience high-definition video output, essential for media playback and gaming.

In terms of audio, the ASRock H77 Pro4-M is equipped with the Realtek ALC892 audio codec, delivering 7.1 channel high-definition audio that enhances the overall multimedia experience. Additionally, the motherboard includes a wide array of connectivity options, such as Gigabit Ethernet, which provides reliable and fast networking capabilities for both online gaming and data transfer.

The ASRock H77 Pro4-M also supports advanced technologies such as Intel Rapid Start Technology and Intel Smart Connect Technology, which enhance boot times and allow for seamless updates while the system is in sleep mode. These features add to the convenience and efficiency of the platform.

In summary, the ASRock H77 Pro4-M provides a solid foundation for modern computing needs. With its robust memory support, ample connectivity options, and advanced features, it is a reliable choice for users looking to build a performance-oriented PC without breaking the bank.