Chapter 4 Award BIOS Setup

4.1 System test and initialization

These routines test and initialize board hardware. If the routines encoun- ter an error during the tests, you will either hear a few short beeps or see an error message on the screen. There are two kinds of errors: fatal and non-fatal. The system can usually continue the boot up sequence with non-fatal errors. Non-fatal error messages usually appear on the screen along with the following instructions:

press <F1> to CONTINUE

Write down the message and press the F1 key to continue the bootup sequence.

4.1.1 System configuration verification

These routines check the current system configuration against the values stored in the board’s CMOS memory. If they do not match, the program outputs an error message. You will then need to run the BIOS setup pro- gram to set the configuration information in memory.

There are three situations in which you will need to change the CMOS settings:

1.You are starting your system for the first time

2.You have changed the hardware attached to your system

3.The CMOS memory has lost power and the configuration informa-

tion has been erased.

The PCI-6886 Series' CMOS memory has an integral lithium battery backup. The battery backup should at least three years in normal service, but when it finally runs down, you will need to replace the complete unit.

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Intel PCI-6886 user manual System test and initialization, System configuration verification
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PCI-6886 specifications

The Intel PCI-6886 is a versatile, highly integrated chipset designed for desktop computing solutions, catering predominantly to the needs of the OEM market. This chipset stands as a significant part of Intel's efforts to enhance performance and efficiency in personal computing.

One of the main features of the PCI-6886 is its support for a dual IDE interface, enabling fast data transfer rates between the motherboard and connected storage devices like hard drives and CD-ROMs. It supports a maximum of four IDE devices, enhancing the system's expandability and providing users with the flexibility to increase storage capacity as needed.

The PCI-6886 supports a range of Intel processors, specifically designed to work seamlessly with the Pentium architecture. This compatibility makes it an ideal choice for system builders looking to create robust and reliable PCs that can handle various applications ranging from business to leisure activities.

Moreover, the PCI-6886 incorporates advanced power management technologies, allowing for substantial energy savings. Through its capabilities to manage CPU and peripheral usage, the chipset helps reduce power consumption, an essential feature in today’s environmentally conscious market. These power-saving features are particularly valuable in mobile computing, where battery life is crucial.

Furthermore, the PCI-6886 boasts an advanced PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) bus architecture. This facilitates the connection and communication of multiple peripheral devices without compromising system performance. With its support for a wide array of PCI devices, the chipset contributes significantly to the overall versatility of the computing platform.

The integration of graphics support is another impressive aspect of the PCI-6886. It comes equipped with a 2D/3D graphics accelerator, allowing for improved visual performance in gaming and multimedia applications. This integration helps reduce system costs and simplifies the design process for manufacturers by minimizing the need for additional graphics cards.

In conclusion, the Intel PCI-6886 chipset represents a well-rounded solution for desktop systems, combining powerful performance with energy efficiency and expandability. Its support for various processors, advanced IDE and PCI features, along with integrated graphics capabilities, make it a popular choice for OEMs and builders aiming to deliver reliable and effective computing experiences. With continued advancements in technology, the PCI-6886 remains relevant, adapting to the evolving needs of the computing landscape.
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