Preface

Preface

About This Manual

This manual is written for system integrators, PC technicians and knowledgeable PC users. It provides information for the installation and use of

the X7DB8/X7DBE motherboard. The X7DB8/X7DBE supports dual Intel Xeon 64-bit quad-core/dual-core processors at a front side bus speed of 1333/1066/667 MHz. With dual Xeon 64-bit quad-core/dual-core processors, the 5000P (Blackford) chipset, and eight DDR2 FBD 667/533 memory modules built-in, the X7DB8/X7DBE offers substantial functionality and performance enhancements to the motherboards based on the NetBurst microarchitecture while remaining com- patible with the 32-bit based software. Key features include Intel's Hyper-Threading Technology, Virtualization Technology, Hyper Pipelined Technology, Execution Trace Cache, Thermal Monitor 1/2 (TM1/TM2), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep technology, Ad- vanced Dynamic Execution, Advanced Transfer Cache, Streaming SIMD Extensions 3 (SSE3) and Extended Memory 64 Technology (EM64T). These features allow the motherboard to operate at much higher speeds with better power management in much safer environments than the traditional motherboards. The X7DB8/X7DBE is ideal for high performance dual processor (DP) enterprise server/workstation environments. This product is intended to be professionally installed.

Manual Organization

Chapter 1 describes the features, specifications and performance of the mainboard and provides detailed information about the chipset.

Chapter 2 provides hardware installation instructions. Read this chapter when installing the processor, memory modules and other hardware components into the system. If you encounter any problems, see Chapter 3, which describes troubleshooting procedures for the video, the memory and the system setup stored in the CMOS.

Chapter 4 includes an introduction to BIOS and provides detailed information on running the CMOS Setup utility.

Appendix A and Appendix B provide BIOS POST Messages and POST Codes. Appendix C, Appendix D and Appendix E list HostRAID Setup Guidelines and Other Software Driver and Program Installation Instructions.

Conventions Used in the Manual:

Special attention should be given to the following symbols for proper installation and to prevent damage done to the components or injury to yourself:

Danger/Caution: Instructions to be strictly followed to prevent catastrophic system failure or to avoid bodily injury.

Warning: Important information given to ensure proper system installation or to prevent damage to the components.

Note: Additional Information given to differentiate various models or to ensure cor- rect system setup.

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SUPER MICRO Computer X7DB8, X7DBE user manual About This Manual, Manual Organization, Conventions Used in the Manual

X7DB8, X7DBE specifications

Super Micro Computer, a global leader in high-performance server and storage solutions, has developed a range of advanced server motherboards, among which the X7DBE and X7DB8 stand out for their robust performance and versatility. Designed for data-intensive applications, these motherboards cater to various markets, including cloud computing, enterprise data centers, and video surveillance.

The X7DBE motherboards are built on the Intel 5000 series chipset and support dual Intel Xeon processors, which provide exceptional processing power for demanding applications. With a maximum memory capacity of 64GB, these motherboards cater to memory-intensive workloads, making them ideal for virtualization and database applications. The X7DBE supports both ECC (Error-Correcting Code) and non-ECC memory, enhancing system reliability and data integrity.

In terms of storage, the X7DBE is equipped with multiple 3.5-inch SATA hard drive bays that allow for substantial data storage capabilities. Additionally, it includes integrated RAID support, enabling users to configure their storage environment for optimal performance and redundancy. The advanced thermal management technology ensures efficient cooling, promoting system stability and longevity even under heavy workloads.

The X7DB8, on the other hand, takes performance a notch higher by providing support for the latest Intel processors and offering enhanced features geared toward high-performance computing. Like the X7DBE, it supports dual processors but extends capability for larger memory configurations, allowing up to 128GB of DDR2 memory. This flexibility makes the X7DB8 an excellent choice for mission-critical applications requiring immense processing power.

Both motherboards come equipped with multiple PCI Express slots, enabling the installation of add-on cards for tasks such as enhanced graphics, additional network interfaces, or dedicated storage controllers, thus providing scalability to meet the growing demands of modern applications. Network connectivity is robust, with several Gigabit Ethernet ports ensuring high-speed data transfer.

In conclusion, Super Micro's X7DBE and X7DB8 motherboards exemplify the perfect blend of performance, scalability, and reliability. With their support for advanced technologies and their ability to handle high workloads, they are ideal solutions for businesses seeking to optimize their server infrastructure. As technology continues to evolve, these motherboards remain pertinent, providing a solid foundation for various applications and future advancements.