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.

After the POST memory test begins and before the operating system boot begins, look for a message which says "Press <Ctrl-G> to enter RAID Setup Utility" (Figure 2). Press <Ctrl> + <G> to enter the GIGABYTE SATA2 RAID BIOS utility.

GIGABYTE Technology Corp. PCIE-to-SATAII/IDE RAID Controller BIOS v1.06.78

Copyright (C) 2005 GIGABYTE Technology.

http://www.gigabyte.com.tw

HDD0

:

ST3120026AS

120 GB

Non-RAID

HDD1

:

ST3120026AS

120 GB

Non-RAID

ODD0

:

DVDROM GO-D1600B

 

 

Press <Ctrl-G> to enter RAID Setup Utility ...

Figure 2

In the main screen of the GIGABYTE SATA2 RAID BIOS utility (Figure 3), use the up or down arrow key to highlight through choices in the Main Menu block. Highlight the item that you wish to execute and press <Enter>.

GIGABYTE Technology Corp. PCIE-to-SATAII/IDE RAID Controller BIOS v1.06.78

[ Main Menu ]

[ Hard Disk Drive List ]

 

 

Create RAID Disk Drive

Model Name

Capacity

Type/Status

Delete RAID Disk Drive

HDD0: ST3120026AS

120 GB

Non-RAID

Revert HDD to Non-RAID

HDD1: ST3120026AS

120 GB

Non-RAID

Solve Mirror Conflict

 

 

 

Rebuild Mirror Drive

 

 

 

Save And Exit Setup

 

 

 

Exit Without Saving

 

 

 

[ RAID Disk Drive List ]

 

 

 

[IJTAB]-Switch Window

[KL]-Select ITEM

[ENTER]-Action

[ESC]-Exit

Figure 3

Note: In the main screen, you can select a hard drive in the Hard Disk Drive List block and press <Enter> to see detailed information about the selected hard drive.

GA-EP45-UD3P Motherboard

- 94 -

Page 94
Image 94
Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P user manual HDD0, HDD1, ODD0 Dvdrom GO-D1600B

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.