1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing ASRock N68-VGS3 FX / N68-VS3 FX motherboard, a reliable motherboard produced under ASRock’s consistently stringent quality control. It delivers excellent performance with robust design conforming to ASRock’s commitment to qual- ity and endurance.

In this manual, chapter 1 and 2 contain introduction of the motherboard and step-by-step guide to the hardware installation. Chapter 3 and 4 contain the configuration guide to BIOS setup and information of the Support CD.

Because the motherboard specifications and the BIOS software might be updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without notice. In case any modifications of this manual occur, the updated version will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You may find the latest VGA cards and CPU support lists on ASRock website as well. ASRock website http://www.asrock.com

If you require technical support related to this motherboard, please visit our website for specific information about the model you are using.

www.asrock.com/support/index.asp

1 . 1 Package Contents

One ASRock N68-VGS3 FX / N68-VS3 FX Motherboard (Micro ATX Form Factor: 8.5-in x 7.0-in, 21.6 cm x 17.8 cm)

One ASRock N68-VGS3 FX / N68-VS3 FX Quick Installation Guide One ASRock N68-VGS3 FX / N68-VS3 FX Support CD

Two Serial ATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional) One I/O Panel Shield

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ASRock N68-VS3 FX manual Introduction, Package Contents

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.