Chapter 4 Unique Features

4-1 Xpress Recovery2

Xpress Recovery2 is a utility that allows you to quickly compress and back up your system data and perform restoration of it. Supporting NTFS, FAT32, and FAT16 file systems, Xpress Recovery2 can back up data on PATA and SATA hard drives and restore it.

Before You Begin:

Xpress Recovery2 will check the first physical hard drive* for the operating system. Xpress Recovery2 can only back up/restore the first physical hard drive that has the operating system installed.

As Xpress Recovery2 will save the backup file at the end of the hard drive, make sure to leave enough unallocated space in advanced (10 GB or more is recommended; actual size require- ments vary, depending on the amount of data).

It is recommended to back up your system soon after the operating system and drivers are installed.

The amount of data and hard drive access speed may affect the speed at which the data is backed up/restored.

It takes longer to back up a hard drive than to restore it.

System Requirements:

Intel platform

At least 64 MB of system memory

VESA compatible graphics card

Windows® XP with SP1 or later

Xpress Recovery and Xpress Recovery2 are different utilities. For example, a backup file

created with Xpress Recovery cannot be restored using Xpress Recovery2.

USB hard drives are not supported.

Hard drives in RAID/AHCI mode are not supported.

"*" Xpress Recovery2 checks the first physical hard drive in the following sequence: The first PATA IDE connector, the second PATA IDE connector, the first SATA connector, the second SATA connector and so forth. For example, when hard drives are attached to the first IDE and the first SATA connectors, the hard drive on the first IDE connector is the first physical drive. When hard drives are attached to the first and second SATA connectors, the hard drive on the first SATA connector is the first physical drive.

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Unique Features

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Intel GA-G31M-S2C, GA-G31M-S2L user manual Xpress Recovery2, Before You Begin, System Requirements

GA-G31M-S2C, GA-G31M-S2L specifications

The Intel GA-G31M-S2L and GA-G31M-S2C are motherboards that represent a blend of innovation and reliability in the realm of computing. Designed by Gigabyte, these motherboards cater predominantly to budget-conscious consumers, gamers, and professionals seeking a stable platform for their computing needs. Powered by the Intel G31 chipset, these models support Intel's LGA 775 socket processors, which include the Pentium and Core 2 Duo series, making them versatile options for various applications.

One of the standout features of the GA-G31M-S2L and GA-G31M-S2C is their support for DDR2 memory with a maximum capacity of 4GB. This makes them suitable for running multiple applications simultaneously, providing users with a smoother multitasking experience. The motherboards support a dual-channel memory architecture, maximizing memory bandwidth, which is critical for performance-demanding applications and tasks.

In terms of connectivity, both models boast an array of ports, including USB 2.0 and Serial ATA (SATA) interfaces. This allows users to connect various peripherals and storage devices seamlessly. Additionally, the GA-G31M-S2C variant offers integrated graphics powered by Intel’s GMA 3100, providing a decent graphical performance for casual users who may not require a dedicated graphics card. Meanwhile, the GA-G31M-S2L can be fitted with a dedicated GPU for enhanced gaming experiences.

The motherboards also feature Gigabyte's renowned Ultra Durable technology, which incorporates durable capacitors, solid-state chokes, and a robust PCB design. This ensures enhanced stability and longevity, making them ideal for long-term use. Another noteworthy aspect is their support for PCI Express slots, enabling users to upgrade their systems with additional hardware, such as graphics cards or network adapters.

Security features are not overlooked, with options for BIOS-level protection that helps safeguard the motherboard from unauthorized access. The GA-G31M-S2L and GA-G31M-S2C are also equipped with an easy-to-use BIOS interface, allowing users to tweak settings for optimal performance.

In summary, the Intel GA-G31M-S2L and GA-G31M-S2C motherboards deliver a solid foundation for both everyday computing and more demanding tasks. With their blend of essential features, connectivity options, and durability, they stand out as reliable choices for users looking to build or upgrade their systems using the Intel LGA 775 platform. These motherboards embody a practical approach to computing, ensuring users have access to the necessary tools to achieve their goals.