2.5Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The motherboard has one 64-bit PCI-X slot and two 32-bit PCI slots. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

2.5.1 Installing an expansion card

Follow these steps to install an expansion card.

1.Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.

2.Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).

3.Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later use.

4.Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is completely seated on the slot.

5.Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.

6.Replace the system cover.

2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software settings.

1.Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 4 for information on BIOS setup.

2.Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.

3.Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

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Chapter 2: Hardware information