C. Configuring a RAID array in RAID BIOS

Enter the RAID BIOS setup utility to configure a RAID array. Skip this step and proceed to the installation of Windows operating system for a non-RAID configuration.

Step 1:

After the POST memory test begins and before the operating system boot begins, look for a message which says "Press <Ctrl-I> to enter Configuration Utility" (Figure 2). Press <Ctrl> + <I> to enter the RAID Configuration Utility.

Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1039 ICH10R wRAID5

Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reversed.

RAID Volumes :

None defined.

Physical Disks :

 

 

 

Port

Drive Model

Serial #

Size

Type/Status(Vol ID)

0

ST3120026AS

3JT354CP

111.7GB

Non-RAID Disk

1

ST3120026AS

3JT329JX

111.7GB

Non-RAID Disk

Press <CTRL - I> to enter Configuration Utility..

Figure 2

Step 2:

After you press <Ctrl> + <I>, the MAIN MENU screen will appear (Figure 3).

Create RAID Volume

If you want to create a RAID array, select Create RAID Volume in MAIN MENU and press <Enter>.

Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1039 ICH10R wRAID5

Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reversed.

 

 

[ MAIN MENU ]

 

 

 

1. Create RAID Volume

3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID

 

2. Delete RAID Volume

4. Exit

 

 

 

[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]

 

RAID Volumes :

 

 

 

None defined.

 

 

 

Physical Disks :

 

 

 

Port

Drive Model

Serial #

Size

Type/Status(Vol ID)

0

ST3120026AS

3JT354CP

111.7GB

Non-RAID Disk

1

ST3120026AS

3JT329JX

111.7GB

Non-RAID Disk

 

 

 

 

 

 

[KL]-Select

[ESC]-Exit

 

[ENTER]-Select Menu

Figure 3

- 89 -

Appendix

Page 89
Image 89
Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P Configuring a RAID array in RAID Bios, Create RAID Volume, Main Menu, DISK/VOLUME Information

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.