Chapter 3

Introducing BIOS

The BIOS is a program located on a Flash Memory on the motherboard. This program is a bridge between motherboard and operating system. When you start the computer, the BIOS program will gain control. The BIOS first operates an auto-diagnostic test called POST (power on self test) for all the necessary hardware, it detects the entire hardware device and configures the parameters of the hardware synchronization. Only when these tasks are completed done it gives up control of the computer to operating system (OS). Since the BIOS is the only channel for hardware and software to communicate, it is the key factor for system stability, and in ensuring that your system performance as its best.

In the BIOS Setup main menu of Figure 3-1, you can see several options. We will explain these options step by step in the following pages of this chapter, but let us first see a short description of the function keys you may use here:

•Press <Esc> to quit the BIOS Setup.

•Press ↑ ↓ ← → (up, down, left, right) to choose, in the main menu, the option you want to confirm or to modify.

•Press <F10> when you have completed the setup of BIOS parameters to save these parameters and to exit the BIOS Setup menu.

•Press <+>/<–> keys when you want to modify the BIOS parameters for the active option.

3-1 Entering Setup

Power on the computer and by pressing <Del> immediately allows you to enter Setup.

If the message disappears before your respond and you still wish to enter Setup, restart the system to try again by turning it OFF then ON or pressing the “RESET” button on the system case. You may also restart by simultaneously pressing <Ctrl>, <Alt> and <Delete> keys. If you do not press the keys at the correct time and the system does not boot, an error message will be displayed and you will again be asked to

Press <Del> to enter Setup

3-2 Getting Help

Main Menu

The on-line description of the highlighted setup function is displayed at the bottom of the screen.

Status Page Setup Menu/Option Page Setup Menu

Press F1 to pop up a small help window that describes the appropriate keys to use and the possible selections for the highlighted item. To exit the Help Window, press <Esc>.

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Intel X58, ICH10R user manual Entering Setup, Getting Help, Press Del to enter Setup
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X58, ICH10R specifications

The Intel ICH10R and X58 chipset combination represents a significant advancement in motherboard technology, forming a critical backbone for high-performance computing. Highlighted for their versatility and expanded connectivity options, these components were instrumental in catering to the growing demands of power users and gamers alike.

The Intel ICH10R, or I/O Controller Hub, is distinguished by its support for advanced RAID configurations, specifically RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10. This feature allows users to enhance data redundancy and performance, making it a preferred choice for data-intensive applications. With a total of six SATA II ports, the ICH10R ensures extensive storage options for modern setups, enabling users to connect multiple hard drives and SSDs for superior performance and speed. Additionally, the ICH10R includes support for AHCI, which allows for advanced features like Native Command Queuing, improving overall storage efficiency.

On the other hand, the Intel X58 chipset was designed to support Intel's Core i7 processors, which utilize the LGA 1366 socket. This architecture offered a marked increase in memory bandwidth and efficiency, as it supports Triple Channel DDR3 memory. This allows for substantial memory throughput, essential for memory-heavy tasks like video editing, gaming, and scientific simulations. The X58 also supports up to 24 GB of RAM, accommodating the needs of even the most demanding users.

A notable feature of the X58 chipset is its ability to support multiple graphics cards through NVIDIA's SLI and AMD's CrossFire technologies, offering users the flexibility to create powerful multi-GPU setups. This capability enhances visual performance and image rendering, making it ideal for gaming enthusiasts seeking maximum frame rates.

Further enhancing the X58's utility are its numerous connectivity options, including USB 2.0 and support for PCI Express 2.0 lanes, allowing for a wide range of expansion cards. The chipset also integrates robust power management features, which help optimize energy consumption and ensure system stability under load.

In summary, the Intel ICH10R and X58 chipset combination provides an impressive array of features, technologies, and characteristics tailored for high-performance computing environments. With their support for RAID, advanced memory configurations, and multi-GPU setups, they remain a noteworthy choice for gamers and professionals seeking a powerful and flexible computing solution.
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