B. Configuring SATA controller mode in BIOS Setup

Make sure to configure the SATA controller mode correctly in system BIOS Setup .

Step 1:

Turn on your computer and press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup during the POST (Power-On Self-Test). To create RAID, set SATA RAID/AHCI Mode under the Integrated Peripherals menu to RAID (Figure 1)(Disabled by default). If you do not want to create RAID, set this item to Disabled or AHCI.

CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software

Integrated Peripherals

 

SATA RAID/AHCI Mode

[RAID]

 

 

 

Item Help

 

SATA Port0-3 Native Mode

[Disabled]

 

 

Menu Level`

 

 

 

 

USB Controller

 

[Enabled]

 

 

 

 

 

USB 2.0 Controller

[Enabled]

 

 

 

 

 

USB Keyboard Support

[Disabled]

 

 

 

 

 

USB Mouse Support

[Disabled]

 

 

 

 

 

Legacy USB storage detect

[Enabled]

 

 

 

 

 

Azalia Codec

 

[Auto]

 

 

 

 

 

Onboard H/W 1394

[Enabled]

 

 

 

 

 

Onboard H/W LAN1

[Enabled]

 

 

 

 

 

Onboard H/W LAN2

[Enabled]

 

 

 

 

 

Green LAN

 

[Disbabled]

 

 

`

SMART LAN1

 

[Press Enter]

 

 

`

SMART LAN2

 

[Press Enter]

 

 

 

Onboard LAN1 Boot ROM

[Disabled]

 

 

 

 

 

Onboard LAN2 Boot ROM

[Disabled]

 

 

 

 

 

Onboard SATA/IDE Device

[Enabled]

 

 

 

 

 

Onboard SATA/IDE Ctrl Mode

[IDE]

 

 

 

 

 

Onboard Serial Port 1

[3F8/IRQ4]

 

 

KLJI: Move

Enter: Select

+/-/PU/PD: Value

F10: Save

ESC: Exit

F1: General Help

 

F5: Previous Values

F6: Fail-Safe Default

 

 

F7: Optimized Defaults

Figure 1

Step 2:

Save changes and exit BIOS Setup.

The BIOS Setup menus described in this section may differ from the exact settings for your motherboard. The actual BIOS Setup menu options you will see shall depend on the motherboard you have and the BIOS version.

GA-EP45-UD3P Motherboard

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Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P user manual Configuring Sata controller mode in Bios Setup, Raid

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.