Desktop Board Features

Related Links

Go to the following link or pages for more information about:

Audio drivers and utilities http://support.intel.com/support/motherboards/desktop/

Installing the front panel audio adapter, page 44 in Chapter 2

Input/Output (I/O) Controller

The super I/O controller features the following:

One serial port

One parallel port with Extended Capabilities Port (ECP) and Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP) support

Serial IRQ interface compatible with serialized IRQ support for PCI systems

PS/2-style mouse and keyboard interfaces

Interface for one 1.2 MB, 1.44 MB, or 2.88 MB diskette drive

Intelligent power management, including a programmable wake up event interface

PCI power management support

LAN Subsystem

The LAN, with the Intel 82801GH I/O Controller Hub, provides a Fast PCI LAN subsystem. The LAN subsystem provides the following functions:

Intel 82573V or 82573L Ethernet LAN supporting 10/100/1000 Mbit/sec

Support for RJ-45 connector with status indicator LEDs

Configurable EEPROM that contains the MAC address

LAN Subsystem Software

For LAN software and drivers, refer to the D975XBX link on Intel’s World Wide Web site at:

http://support.intel.com/support/motherboards/desktop

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Intel D975XBX manual Input/Output I/O Controller, LAN Subsystem Software

D975XBX specifications

The Intel D975XBX motherboard, also known as the "Bad Axe," is a high-performance platform designed for enthusiasts and gamers who demand exceptional computing power and advanced features. Launched in the mid-2000s, this motherboard is built around the Intel 975X chipset, which supports Intel's Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Extreme processors. The D975XBX was particularly noted for its capabilities in overclocking, making it a popular choice among PC builders and gamers looking to maximize performance.

One of the standout features of the Intel D975XBX is its support for dual-channel DDR2 memory. The motherboard has four DIMM slots, allowing users to install up to 8GB of RAM, with speeds up to 800 MHz. This high memory bandwidth significantly enhances system performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming scenarios. Additionally, the board supports Advanced Memory Protection technologies like ECC (Error-Correcting Code) when used with compatible memory modules.

Storage connectivity is another strong point of the D975XBX. It features six SATA II ports, providing ample room for multiple hard drives or solid-state drives. This is complemented by support for Intel Matrix Storage Technology, which allows for RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations, ensuring data integrity and improved performance through redundancy. For those who prefer legacy support, the motherboard also includes an IDE port for connecting older drives.

In terms of graphics capabilities, the D975XBX has two PCI Express x16 slots, enabling users to install multiple graphics cards for enhanced performance in gaming or graphic design applications. The board also supports CrossFire technology, allowing for dual graphics card configurations from AMD.

The Intel D975XBX is equipped with an array of onboard features, including seven USB 2.0 ports, a dual Gigabit Ethernet controller for high-speed networking, and 7.1 surround sound audio support, making it versatile for various multimedia applications. The board's BIOS includes a user-friendly interface and comprehensive overclocking options, allowing users to fine-tune system settings for optimal performance.

Overall, the Intel D975XBX remains a noteworthy option for those interested in building a powerful PC. Its solid feature set, support for legacy technologies, and overclocking potential continue to attract enthusiasts looking for a reliable and high-performance motherboard. Whether for gaming, multimedia tasks, or everyday computing, the D975XBX delivers a well-rounded experience that has stood the test of time.