3.4 Intel® Smart Connect Technology

Intel® Smart Connect Technology is a feature that periodically wakes your computer from Windows® sleep state to refresh email or social networking applications. It saves your waiting time and keeps the content always up-to-date.

3.4.1 System Requirements

Confirm whether your motherboard supports this feature.

Operating system: Microsoft Windows 8/7 (32- or 64-bit edition)

Set the SATA mode to AHCI. If Windows 8/7 is already installed under IDE mode, directly changing the SATA mode to AHCI may cause Windows 8/7 to crash while booting. If your system is not in AHCI mode, please follow the instructions below.

There are certain risks. Please backup any important data before operating to avoid loss.

1.Press Win + R simultaneously in Windows 8/7, type "Regedit" into the word box then click OK.

2.Enter into HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\services\ msahci in Windows Registry Editor. Double click on the value Start and change the value from 3 into 0. Click on OK.

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ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac manual Intel Smart Connect Technology, System Requirements

Z87 Extreme9/ac specifications

The ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac motherboard is designed to empower enthusiasts and professionals who demand high performance, flexibility, and cutting-edge features. Built on Intel's Z87 chipset, this motherboard supports the fourth generation Intel Core processors, offering exceptional performance for both gaming and productivity tasks.

One of the standout features of the Z87 Extreme9/ac is its impressive power design. The motherboard is equipped with a 12-phase power design that allows for better power delivery and stability, crucial for overclocking. The Digi Power technology enhances the efficiency of power delivery, while the premium capacitors ensure longevity and reliability, allowing for increased operational lifetimes under heavy loads.

The ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac comes with four DIMM slots supporting a maximum of 32GB DDR3 memory up to 3100 MHz when overclocked. This ample memory capacity makes it an excellent choice for memory-intensive applications such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming. The motherboard features an extensive array of USB ports, including USB 3.0 connectivity, enabling fast data transfer speeds for external devices.

For gaming and multimedia enthusiasts, the Z87 Extreme9/ac integrates a Realtek ALC1150 audio chip, which provides a high-definition sound quality that enhances the entire gaming experience. The motherboard also features the Purity Sound technology, providing a dedicated audio power supply, which minimizes electronic noise for superior audio fidelity.

Another key feature is the inclusion of dual Gigabit Ethernet ports powered by the Intel LAN chip, enabling load balancing and failover protection for a more reliable and faster network connection. The ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac also supports Thunderbolt technology, providing ultra-fast data transfer speeds and the ability to connect multiple devices through a single port.

In terms of storage, the motherboard offers extensive support for SATA III and RAID configurations, enhancing data transfer rates and redundancy options. The Z87 Extreme9/ac provides several PCIe slots for expansion cards, ensuring users can customize their systems to meet their specific needs.

In summary, the ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac is a feature-rich motherboard aimed at gamers and power users seeking advanced performance and stability. With its top-notch power delivery system, audio capabilities, and connectivity options, it stands as a solid foundation for building a high-performance computing environment.