Contents

 

1 Desktop Board Features

 

Supported Operating Systems

10

Desktop Board Components

11

Processor

13

Main Memory

13

Intel® 975X Express Chipset

14

Audio Subsystem

14

Input/Output (I/O) Controller

15

LAN Subsystem

15

LAN Subsystem Software

15

RJ-45 LAN Connector LEDs

16

Hi-Speed USB 2.0 Support

16

Enhanced IDE Interface

17

Serial ATA

17

Expandability

17

BIOS

17

Serial ATA and IDE Auto Configuration

17

PCI and PCI Express* Auto Configuration

18

Security Passwords

18

Chassis Intrusion

18

Power Management Features

18

ACPI

19

Fan Connectors

19

Fan Speed Control (Intel® Precision Cooling Technology)

19

Suspend to RAM (Instantly Available PC Technology)

19

Resume on Ring

20

Wake from USB

20

Wake from PS/2* Keyboard/Mouse

20

PME# Wakeup Support

20

Speaker

21

Battery

21

Real-Time Clock

21

2 Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

 

Before You Begin

23

Installation Precautions

24

Prevent Power Supply Overload

24

Observe Safety and Regulatory Requirements

24

Installing the I/O Shield

25

Installing and Removing the Desktop Board

26

Installing and Removing a Processor

27

Installing a Processor

27

Installing the Processor Fan Heat Sink

30

Connecting the Processor Fan Heat Sink Cable

30

Removing the Processor

30

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Intel D975XBX manual Contents

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.