2.5Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following subsections 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.

2.5.1Installing an expansion card

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.

2.5.2Configuring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, configure the 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.

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.

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Chapter 2: Hardware information

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Asus Z7S WS Expansion slots, Installing an expansion card, Configuring an expansion card, To install an expansion card

Z7S WS specifications

The Asus Z7S WS is a workstation motherboard designed to deliver exceptional performance and reliability for a variety of professional applications, particularly in fields such as graphic design, 3D rendering, and scientific computing. This motherboard stands out with its robust features and cutting-edge technologies, making it an ideal choice for users who require high levels of performance and stability.

One of the cornerstone features of the Asus Z7S WS is its support for dual Intel Xeon processors, allowing users to take advantage of the impressive multi-threading capabilities offered by these powerful CPUs. This makes the Z7S WS suitable for multitasking and handling demanding workloads, enabling professionals to run multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing performance degradation.

In terms of memory support, the Z7S WS is compatible with up to 64GB of DDR3 RAM. This extensive memory capability is essential for memory-intensive tasks, ensuring that users can work with large datasets or complex projects without running into limitations. The motherboard also supports ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory, which helps to enhance data integrity and system reliability, crucial for mission-critical applications.

The Asus Z7S WS embraces advanced storage technologies, featuring multiple SATA 6Gb/s ports and support for RAID configurations. This enables users to establish a reliable storage environment with improved performance and data protection. Additionally, the motherboard is equipped with an onboard SAS (Serial Attached SCSI) controller, allowing for enterprise-grade storage solutions and improved data transfer rates.

Connectivity is another strong suit of the Z7S WS. The motherboard provides a wide array of expansion slots, including PCIe slots for high-performance graphics cards and other add-on cards. This flexibility allows users to configure their workstation to meet specific needs, whether it's for gaming, professional graphics work, or computational tasks.

Moreover, the Asus Z7S WS features high-definition audio and multiple USB ports, catering to users who require audio capabilities and extensive peripheral connectivity. The robust power delivery system is designed to ensure stability even under heavy loads, making this motherboard a reliable choice for professional use.

Finally, Asus emphasizes durability and longevity in the design of the Z7S WS, incorporating high-quality components that can withstand prolonged usage. Overall, the Asus Z7S WS is a powerful workstation motherboard that provides the performance, reliability, and versatility needed for demanding professional environments.