Chapter 3 Software and Utilities Operation

3.1 Installing Drivers

The Support CD that comes with the motherboard contains necessary drivers and useful utilities that enhance the motherboard’s features.

Running The Support CD

To begin using the support CD, insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive. The CD automatically displays the Main Menu if “AUTORUN” is enabled in your computer. If the Main Menu does not appear automatically, locate and double click on the file “ASRSETUP.EXE” in the Support CD to display the menu.

Drivers Menu

The drivers compatible to your system will be auto-detected and listed on the support CD driver page. Please click Install All or follow the order from top to bottom to install those required drivers. Therefore, the drivers you install can work properly.

Utilities Menu

The Utilities Menu shows the application software that the motherboard supports. Click on a specific item then follow the installation wizard to install it.

To improve Windows 7 compatibility, please download and install the following hot fix provided by Microsoft.

“KB2720599”: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2720599/en-us

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ASRock Z87iCafe4 manual Installing Drivers, Running The Support CD, Drivers Menu, Utilities Menu

Z87iCafe4 specifications

The ASRock Z87iCafe4 is a mini-ITX motherboard that combines power and performance in a compact design, making it an excellent choice for users looking to build a sleek and efficient PC without sacrificing features. Designed for Intel's 4th generation Core processors, it utilizes the LGA 1150 socket, enabling support for high-performance CPUs with impressive computing capabilities.

One of the standout features of the Z87iCafe4 is its robust power delivery system. It is equipped with a 5-phase power design, which ensures stable power supply to the CPU, allowing for better performance and overclocking potential. Additionally, the board supports DDR3 memory with speeds of up to 2400 MHz, enabling faster data processing for various applications, from gaming to content creation.

Storage options on the ASRock Z87iCafe4 are generous, featuring four SATA3 ports for fast data transfer rates up to 6 Gb/s. This allows for easy integration of multiple SSDs and HDDs, catering to the needs of users requiring ample storage and speed. Moreover, it supports Intel Rapid Storage Technology, enhancing performance by enabling RAID configurations for both redundancy and performance.

Connectivity is another strong point of the Z87iCafe4. It comes with integrated Intel HD Graphics, providing support for multi-display setups without needing a dedicated graphics card. The motherboard features HDMI, DisplayPort, and DVI outputs, making it versatile for different display technologies. Furthermore, the inclusion of USB 3.0 ports ensures high-speed data transfer for modern peripherals.

To enhance audio performance, the Z87iCafe4 integrates a premium quality 7.1 channel HD audio codec, delivering immersive audio for gaming and media consumption. The motherboard also features ASRock's F-Stream software, allowing users to fine-tune settings and monitor system performance conveniently.

In summary, the ASRock Z87iCafe4 is a feature-rich mini-ITX motherboard that caters to users who require a balance of performance, stability, and compact design. With its advanced power delivery, support for high-speed memory, ample storage options, and strong multimedia capabilities, it represents an excellent choice for building a high-performance PC in a small form factor. Whether for gaming, professional work, or everyday use, the Z87iCafe4 stands out as a reliable foundation for your next computing project.