AP440FX Motherboard Technical Product Specification

1.6 Main System Memory

The motherboard has four 72-pin tin-lead SIMM sockets that make it possible to install up to

128 MB of RAM. The sockets support 1M x 32 (4 MB) single-sided modules, 2M x 32 (8 MB), 4M x 32 (16 MB), and 8M x 32 (32 MB) single- or double-sided modules. Minimum memory size is 8 MB and maximum memory size, using four 8M x 32 SIMM modules, is 128 MB. Memory timing requires 60 ns fast page devices or, for optimum performance, 60 ns EDO DRAM. Both parity and non-parity memory modules are supported. With parity SIMMs, the board can be configured to support ECC operation.

The four sockets are arranged in two banks of two sockets each. The sockets are designated Bank 0 and Bank 1. Each bank provides a 64/72-bit wide data path. Both SIMMs in a bank must be of the same memory size and type, although the types and sizes of memory may differ between banks. Bank 0 only, Bank 1 only, or both of the banks may be populated. There are no jumper settings required for the memory size or type, which is automatically detected by the BIOS. Use only tin lead SIMMs when adding DRAM.

1.6.1DRAM

EDO (or Hyper Page) DRAM is designed to improve the DRAM read performance. EDO DRAM holds the memory data valid until the next memory access cycle, unlike standard fast page mode DRAM that tri-states the memory data when the precharge cycle occurs, prior to the next memory access cycle.

1.6.2Parity and ECC DRAM

Memory error checking and correction is supported by parity SIMMs. With parity SIMMs, the board can be configured to support ECC memory operation. Parity SIMMs are automatically detected, but the user must enter Setup to configure the SIMMs for either Parity or ECC operation. Parity memory detects single bit errors. ECC memory detects double bit errors and corrects single bit errors. Errors may be generated by a defective memory module, by different speeds of memory modules, or by DMA or memory conflicts.

1.7 Chipset

The Intel 82440FX PCIset consists of the 82441FX PCI Bridge and Memory controller (PMC) and the 82442FX Data Bus Accelerator (DBX). The Intel 82371SB PCI ISA/IDE Xccelerator (PIIX3) bridge, provides the connection between the ISA and PCI buses.

1.7.182441FX PCI Bridge and Memory Controller (PMC)

The 82441FX comes in a 208 pin QFP package and provides the following features:

Microprocessor interface control

Pentium Pro processor host bus up to 66 MHz

32-bit addressing

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Intel AP440FX Main System Memory, Chipset, Parity and ECC Dram, 1 82441FX PCI Bridge and Memory Controller PMC

AP440FX specifications

The Intel AP440FX is a pivotal motherboard that was released in the late 1990s, designed to support the Intel Pentium II and Pentium III processors. Known for its robust performance and versatile functionalities, the AP440FX became a popular choice among computer enthusiasts and system builders during its time.

One of the defining features of the Intel AP440FX is its support for the Intel 440FX chipset. This chipset provided improved system performance through its use of a 66 MHz front-side bus, which allowed for faster data transfer between the CPU and the memory. The motherboard was equipped with two DIMM slots capable of supporting a maximum of 512 MB of SDRAM, providing users with the flexibility to choose the amount of memory they required for their applications.

Another notable characteristic of the AP440FX motherboard is its integrated support for various peripheral interfaces. It comes equipped with multiple ISA and PCI slots, allowing users to expand their system capabilities through the addition of various cards. The presence of two USB ports, which were relatively new at the time of its release, gave users access to a wider range of peripherals and external devices.

The Intel AP440FX also features an integrated IDE controller, enabling connection for hard drives and optical drives without the need for additional controller cards. This integrated solution simplified storage management for users and contributed to the overall efficiency of the system. The motherboard also supported SCSI through optional daughter cards, catering to users who required high-speed data transfer and reliable disk storage solutions.

Moreover, the AP440FX was designed with future upgrades in mind. Its BIOS supported plug-and-play installations, allowing users to easily configure new hardware components without extensive troubleshooting. Additionally, the ATX form factor of the motherboard contributed to its compatibility with a wide range of cases and power supplies.

In terms of power management, the Intel AP440FX incorporated advanced features such as ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface), which allowed for better power efficiency and management of power states. This feature was particularly beneficial for users looking to reduce energy consumption and improve the overall longevity of their systems.

All in all, the Intel AP440FX represented a significant advancement in motherboard technology during its era. Its combination of robust performance, upgradeability, and support for new technologies made it a popular choice for users looking to build powerful and efficient computing systems.