1-3 Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler

Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:

•Make sure that the motherboard supports the CPU.

(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)

•Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the CPU to prevent hardware damage.

•Locate the pin one of the CPU. The CPU cannot be inserted if oriented incorrectly. (Or you may locate the notches on both sides of the CPU and alignment keys on the CPU socket.)

•Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the CPU.

•Do not turn on the computer if the CPU cooler is not installed, otherwise overheating and damage of the CPU may occur.

•Set the CPU host frequency in accordance with the CPU specifications. It is not recom- mended that the system bus frequency be set beyond hardware specifications since it does not meet the standard requirements for the peripherals. If you wish to set the fre- quency beyond the standard specifications, please do so according to your hardware specifications including the CPU, graphics card, memory, hard drive, etc.

1-3-1 Installing the CPU

A. Locate the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU.

LGA775 CPU Socket

Alignment Key Alignment Key

Pin One Corner of the CPU Socket

LGA 775 CPU

Notch

Notch

 

Triangle Pin One Marking on the CPU

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Hardware Installation

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Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P user manual Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler
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GA-EP45-UD3P specifications

The Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P is a motherboard that gained popularity for its superb balance of performance, features, and price, particularly catering to enthusiasts, gamers, and mainstream PC users. Launched in the late 2000s, it is built on the Intel P45 chipset, making it compatible with Intel's Core 2 Duo, Core 2 Quad, Pentium, and Celeron processors, providing a versatile foundation for various computing needs.

One of the standout features of the GA-EP45-UD3P is its excellent support for overclocking. The motherboard comes equipped with robust voltage regulation, providing stability when pushing CPUs beyond their standard clock speeds. Additionally, its user-friendly BIOS includes extensive options for adjusting CPU and memory settings, making it an appealing choice for those looking to maximize performance.

The GA-EP45-UD3P supports DDR2 memory up to 1200 MHz, and it features four DIMM slots for dual-channel memory configuration, facilitating high memory capacities and bandwidth. With a total of 16 USB 2.0 ports and a pair of IEEE 1394 FireWire ports, connectivity is abundant, ensuring that users can connect multiple peripherals without issue.

In terms of storage, the motherboard offers six SATA ports with RAID support, allowing for flexible configurations ranging from data redundancy to performance enhancements. Furthermore, it also includes one IDE connector, which provides compatibility with legacy devices.

Another key characteristic of the GA-EP45-UD3P is its durable construction, incorporating Gigabyte's Ultra Durable technology. This includes high-quality capacitors, solid capacitors, and a 4-layer PCB design that enhances thermal performance and reliability. The motherboard is also equipped with an advanced thermal management system that features enlarged heatsinks for effective cooling, ensuring that thermal throttling doesn't hinder performance.

For audio, the GA-EP45-UD3P features a Realtek ALC889a audio codec offering eight-channel sound output, delivering a rich audio experience for gaming and multimedia applications.

In summary, the Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P stands out with its robust overclocking capabilities, ample connectivity options, extensive storage support, and durable construction, making it a solid choice for those building a powerful and reliable system. Whether for intensive gaming, content creation, or general computing, this motherboard provides a well-rounded performance that still resonates with tech enthusiasts today.
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