Introduction

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Introduction

EPoX is proud to introduce the KP6-FX 2 mainboard to support Intel Pentium® II Processor Intel’s latest technology in CPU’s. The KP6-FX 2 is based on Intel’s 82440FX chipset, and supports uni-Pentium®II Processor processor. Full specifications include 4 PCI and 4 ISA slots, USB ready, and a special ring-in feature all built into full ATX format. KP6-FX 2 also supports a memory capacity upto 1GB to run the most demanding applications. The KP6-FX 2 also uses Easy-Setting-Single-Jumper (ESSJ) to simplify your CPU clock setting.

1-1 Pentium® II Processor Overview

The Pentium® II Processor processor is follow-on to the Pentium® Processor. The Pentium® II Processor, like the Pentium® Pro processor implements a Dynamic Execution micro-architecture -- a unique combination of multiple branch prediction, data flow analysis, and speculative execution. This enables the Pentium® II Processor to deliver higher performance than the Pentium® processor, while maintaining binary compatibility with all previous Intel architecture processors.

A significant feature of the Pentium® II Processor, from a system perspective, is the build- in direct multiprocessing support. In order to achieve multi-processing, and maintain memory and I/O bandwidth to support them, new system designs are needed. For systems with dual processors, it is important to consider the additional power burdens and signal integrity issues of supporting multiple loads on a high speed bus. The Pentium® II Processor card supports both uni-processor and dual processor implementations.

The Pentium® II Processor utilizes Single Edge Contact (S.E.C.) (Figure 1-1)cartridge packaging technology. The S.E.C. cartridge allows the L2 cache to remain tightly coupled to the processor, while maintaining flexibility when implementing high performance processors into OEM systems. The second level cache is performance optimized and tested at the cartridge level. The S.E.C. cartridge utilizes surface mounted core compo- nents and a printed circuit board with an edge finger connection. The S.E.C. cartridge package introduced on the Pentium® II Processor will also be used in future Slot 1

processors.

Thermal Plate

The S.E.C. cartridge has the following features: a thermal plate, a cover and a PCB with an edge finger connection. The thermal plate allows standardized heatsink attachment or customized thermal solutions. The thermal plate enables a re- usable heatsink to minimize fit issues for service- ability, upgradability and replacement. The full enclosure also protects the surface mount components. The edge finger connection maintains socketabilty for system configuration. The edge finger connector is notated as ‘Slot 1 connector’in this and other documentation.

Cover

Processor

Printed Circuit Board

Pentium® II Processor CPU with

S.E.C. Cartridge

(Figure 1-1)

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EPoX Computer KP6-FX2 manual Introduction, Pentium II Processor Overview, Pentium II Processor CPU with C. Cartridge
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KP6-FX2 specifications

The EPOX Computer KP6-FX2 is a notable motherboard from the late 1990s that garnered attention for its performance and versatility. Designed to support the AMD K6-2 and K6-III processors, the KP6-FX2 was particularly favored by enthusiasts looking to build cost-effective systems without sacrificing capabilities.

One of the standout features of the KP6-FX2 is its socket 7 architecture, which allowed compatibility with a broad range of processors. This flexibility provided users with options to upgrade over time, making it a long-term investment for many builders. The motherboard supports front-side bus speeds of 66/100 MHz, catering to varying performance needs and ensuring that users could benefit from enhanced processing power as new chips were released.

The KP6-FX2 supports up to 768 MB of SDRAM in three DIMM slots, another significant advantage during its time. The motherboard's ability to handle substantial memory was essential for users engaged in demanding applications or multitasking environments. Furthermore, it supports both single-sided and double-sided DIMMs, allowing for even more memory configuration options.

In terms of connectivity, the EPOX KP6-FX2 features an integrated VIA VT82C686B Southbridge, which provides an array of onboard features and I/O connectivity. Users could benefit from integrated PS/2 mouse and keyboard ports, as well as parallel and serial ports, giving them ample options for connecting peripherals. The onboard IDE controller supported up to four IDE devices, accommodating hard drives and optical drives, which was crucial for building a comprehensive system.

The motherboard also included AGP 2X support, which was advantageous for gamers and graphic designers looking to utilize 3D acceleration in their applications. With a dedicated AGP slot, users could install capable graphics cards that enhanced visual performance.

In summary, the EPOX Computer KP6-FX2 is remembered for its robust feature set and adaptability during a time when the PC industry was evolving rapidly. Its compatibility with socket 7 processors, support for substantial RAM, and integrated features made it a valuable choice for both casual users and tech enthusiasts alike. As a product of its era, the KP6-FX2 laid a foundation for future developments in motherboards, paving the way for more advanced technologies.
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