Desktop Board Features

Enhanced IDE Interface

The ICH5’s IDE interface handles the exchange of information between the processor and peripheral devices like hard disks, CD-ROM drives, and Iomega Zip* drives inside the computer. The interface supports:

Up to four IDE devices (such as hard drives)

ATAPI-style devices (such as CD-ROM drives)

Older PIO Mode devices

Ultra DMA-33 and ATA-66/100 protocols

Laser Servo (LS-120) drives

Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)

NOTE

Desktop Board D865GBF/D865GLC is only compatible with 0.8 V and 1.5 V AGP cards.

The AGP connector is keyed for 0.8 V and 1.5 V AGP cards only; the connector is not mechanically compatible with legacy 3.3 V AGP cards. Do not attempt to install a legacy 3.3 V AGP card.

AGP is a high-performance interface for graphics-intensive applications, such as 3D graphics. AGP is independent of the PCI bus and is intended for exclusive use with graphical display devices.

The AGP 3.0 connector supports 8x, 4x, and 1x AGP cards.

Related Links:

For information about installing the AGP card, see page 35 in Chapter 2.

BIOS

The BIOS provides the Power-On Self-Test (POST), the BIOS Setup program, the PCI and IDE auto-configuration utilities, and the video BIOS. The BIOS is stored in the Firmware Hub.

The BIOS can be updated by following the instructions in Chapter 3 on page 49.

PCI Auto Configuration

If you install a PCI add-in card in your computer, the PCI auto-configuration utility in the BIOS automatically detects and configures the resources (IRQs, DMA channels, and I/O space) for that add-in card. You do not need to run the BIOS Setup program after you install a PCI add-in card.

IDE Auto Configuration

If you install an IDE device (such as a hard drive) in your computer, the IDE auto-configuration utility in the BIOS automatically detects and configures the device for your computer. You do not need to run the BIOS Setup program after installing an IDE device. You can override the auto- configuration options by specifying manual configuration in the BIOS Setup program.

To use ATA-66/100 features, the following items are required:

An ATA-66/100 peripheral device

An ATA-66/100 compatible cable

ATA-66/100 operating system device drivers

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Intel D865GBF manual Enhanced IDE Interface, Accelerated Graphics Port AGP, PCI Auto Configuration, IDE Auto Configuration

D865GBF, D865GLC specifications

The Intel D865GBF and D865GLC are both motherboards that cater to the needs of desktop computing, featuring Intel's 865G chipset designed to support a range of processors and peripherals. These motherboards are particularly recognized for their integrated graphics capabilities and robust feature set, making them suitable for both general computing and light multimedia tasks.

One prominent feature of the Intel D865GBF is its support for the Intel Pentium 4 processors, with a front-side bus speed of up to 800 MHz. It supports Socket 478, ensuring compatibility with various Pentium 4 models. In essence, users have the flexibility to upgrade their systems easily, based on their processing requirements. The D865GBF also supports Hyper-Threading technology, enhancing overall multitasking performance by allowing better utilization of CPU resources.

The D865GLC model, while similar, comes with integrated graphics through the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900. This integrated solution is designed to meet the needs of users who require basic graphical capabilities without the necessity for a dedicated graphics card. With support for DirectX 9, the D865GLC can handle light gaming and streaming efficiently. Both models also feature Dual Channel DDR SDRAM memory support, accommodating up to 4GB of RAM. This memory configuration helps enhance performance by providing greater bandwidth.

In terms of connectivity, both motherboards offer a variety of options. They feature six USB 2.0 ports, allowing users to connect multiple peripherals effortlessly. Additionally, the boards come equipped with an integrated 10/100 Ethernet LAN controller for networking capabilities. The IDE and SATA interfaces offer flexibility for connecting storage devices, ensuring fast data transfer rates.

Moreover, the Intel D865 series includes advanced technologies such as Intel’s Matrix Storage Technology, which helps manage multiple storage configurations, ensuring data redundancy and improved performance. Both motherboards are also equipped with a robust array of port options, including audio, and support for legacy devices through parallel and serial ports.

Power management features are integral to the D865GBF and D865GLC, offering Energy Star compliance. This means that they are designed to provide efficient energy use, which is essential in today's environmentally conscious climate. Overall, the Intel D865GBF and D865GLC motherboards serve as solid platforms for users with varying requirements, emphasizing versatility, upgradeability, and balanced performance in the desktop computing space.