Chapter 1 Hardware Installation

1-1 Considerations Prior to Installation

Preparing Your Computer

The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can become damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). Thus, prior to installation, please follow the instructions below:

1.Please turn off the computer and unplug its power cord.

2.When handling the motherboard, avoid touching any metal leads or connectors.

3.It is best to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) cuff when handling electronic components (CPU, RAM).

4.Prior to installing the electronic components, please have these items on top of an antistatic pad or within a electrostatic shielding container.

5.Please verify that the power supply is switched off before unplugging the power supply connector from the motherboard.

Installation Notices

1.Prior to installation, please do not remove the stickers on the motherboard. These stickers are required for warranty validation.

2.Prior to the installation of the motherboard or any hardware, please first carefully read the information in the provided manual.

3.Before using the product, please verify that all cables and power connectors are connected.

4.To prevent damage to the motherboard, please do not allow screws to come in contact with the motherboard circuit or its components.

5.Please make sure there are no leftover screws or metal components placed on the motherboard or within the computer casing.

6.Please do not place the computer system on an uneven surface.

7.Turning on the computer power during the installation process can lead to damage to system components as well as physical harm to the user.

8.If you are uncertain about any installation steps or have a problem related to the use of the product, please consult a certified computer technician.

Instances of Non-Warranty

1.Damage due to natural disaster, accident or human cause.

2.Damage as a result of violating the conditions recommended in the user manual.

3.Damage due to improper installation.

4.Damage due to use of uncertified components.

5.Damage due to use exceeding the permitted parameters.

6.Product determined to be an unofficial Gigabyte product.

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Hardware Installation

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Intel GA-N680SLI-DQ6 user manual Considerations Prior to Installation, Preparing Your Computer, Installation Notices

GA-N680SLI-DQ6 specifications

The Intel GA-N680SLI-DQ6 is a compelling motherboard designed primarily for enthusiasts and high-performance computing, leveraging NVIDIA's nForce 680i SLI chipset. This motherboard caters to gamers and professionals who demand advanced features and exceptional performance.

One of the standout features of the GA-N680SLI-DQ6 is its support for NVIDIA SLI technology, which allows users to install multiple NVIDIA graphics cards in parallel for enhanced graphical performance. This is particularly beneficial for gamers looking to achieve high frame rates and stunning visuals in demanding titles. With this SLI capability, the motherboard supports up to four PCI Express x16 lanes, providing ample bandwidth for multiple GPUs.

The GA-N680SLI-DQ6 is built on the ATX form factor, offering a variety of expansion slots and connectivity options. Featuring four DIMM slots, the motherboard supports up to 8GB of DDR2 memory, which can be clocked at speeds up to 800 MHz. This high memory capacity is essential for multitasking and running memory-intensive applications smoothly.

In terms of storage, the motherboard provides six SATA II ports, allowing users to connect multiple hard drives for impressive storage capabilities. Additionally, it supports RAID 0, 1, 0+1, and 5 configurations, which enhances data redundancy and performance. This flexibility is attractive for users who require both speed and data security.

To enhance audio quality, the GA-N680SLI-DQ6 integrates Realtek ALC888 audio codec, delivering 7.1 channel surround sound. This is vital for gamers and media creators who need immersive sound experiences.

With an eye towards overclocking, the motherboard includes features such as robust power delivery systems and comprehensive BIOS options, enabling users to push their hardware to its limits. The onboard diagnostics LED indicators are also a significant asset, making troubleshooting straightforward.

Overall, the Intel GA-N680SLI-DQ6 stands out for its advanced SLI support, impressive memory capacity, extensive connectivity, and robust performance features, making it an excellent choice for gamers and power users looking to build a high-end PC. Its combination of cutting-edge technologies and thoughtful design characteristics ensure that it remains a relevant option in the competitive motherboard market.