X8SIL/X8SIL-F User's Manual

web site. Select your motherboard model and download the BIOS (.rom) file to your computer. Also, check the current BIOS revision and make sure that it is newer than your BIOS before downloading. You may choose the zip file or the

.exe file. If you choose the zipped BIOS file, please unzip the BIOS file onto a bootable device or a USB pen/thumb drive. To flash the BIOS, run the batch file named "ami.bat" with the new BIOS .rom file from your bootable device or USB pen/thumb drive. Use the following format:

F:\> ami xxxxxxxx.rom <Enter>

Notes: Be sure to insert a space after "ami" and always use the file named “ami.bat” to update the BIOS.

When completed, your system will automatically reboot. If you choose the .exe file, please run the .exe file under Windows to create the BIOS flash floppy disk. Insert the floppy disk into the system you wish to flash the BIOS. Then, boot the system to the floppy disk. The BIOS utility will automatically flash the BIOS without any prompts. Please note that this process may take a few minutes to complete. Do not be concerned if the screen is paused for a few minutes.

Warning: Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent possible system boot failure!

When the BIOS flashing screen is completed, the system will reboot and will show “Press F1 or F2”. At this point, you will need to load the BIOS defaults. Press <F1> to go to the BIOS setup screen, and press <F9> to load the default settings. Next, press <F10> to save and exit. The system will then reboot.

Note: The SPI BIOS chip installed on this motherboard is not removable. To repair or replace a damaged BIOS chip, please send your motherboard to RMA at Supermicro for service.

Question: I think my BIOS is corrupted. How can I recover my BIOS?

Answer: Please see Appendix C, BIOS Recovery for detailed instructions.

Question: What's on the CD that came with my motherboard?

Answer: The supplied compact disc has quite a few drivers and programs that will greatly enhance your system. We recommend that you review the CD and install the applications you need. Applications on the CD include chipset drivers for Windows, security and audio drivers.

Question: Why do I get an error message “IASTOR.SYS read error” when install- ing Windows and "press F6 to install Intel RAID driver" on my X8SIL-F or X8SIE-F motherboard?

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SUPER MICRO Computer X8SIL user manual Question Whats on the CD that came with my motherboard?

X8SIL specifications

SUPER MICRO Computer X8SIL, X8SIL-F, and X8SIL-V are advanced server motherboards designed to meet the demanding needs of today's data centers and enterprise environments. These motherboards from Supermicro deliver exceptional performance, scalability, and reliability, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including virtualization, cloud computing, and database management.

One of the main features of the X8SIL series is its compatibility with Intel's Xeon 5500 and 5600 series processors. This allows users to harness the power of multi-core technology, ensuring optimal performance for both single-threaded and multi-threaded applications. With support for up to 144GB of DDR3 ECC memory, the X8SIL motherboards provide ample memory bandwidth, enhancing the overall system performance and efficiency.

The X8SIL-F variant includes an integrated IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface) feature, which enables remote management and monitoring of the system. This technology allows IT administrators to proactively manage server health, perform remote troubleshooting, and ensure minimal downtime. Additionally, the X8SIL-F supports Supermicro's Green Computing technology, which helps reduce power consumption and enhance energy efficiency, leading to lower operational costs.

In terms of storage, the X8SIL series offers multiple SATA and SAS interface options, facilitating a wide range of storage configurations. The motherboards feature six SATA II ports and optional SAS capabilities, allowing users to implement RAID setups for improved performance and data redundancy. This flexibility in storage solutions is crucial for environments that require high availability and reliability.

The X8SIL motherboard series is equipped with a range of I/O ports, including multiple USB ports, PCI Express slots, and Gigabit Ethernet interfaces. This extensive connectivity ensures that users can easily expand and customize their systems according to specific application needs. The onboard Gigabit Ethernet ports provide fast network access, which is essential for data-intensive workloads.

Furthermore, the X8SIL, X8SIL-F, and X8SIL-V boast an efficient thermal design. These motherboards feature robust heat sinks and fan headers, which help maintain optimal operating temperatures, even under heavy workloads. This thermal efficiency is critical in extending the lifespan of components and ensuring consistent performance.

In summary, SUPER MICRO Computer's X8SIL, X8SIL-F, and X8SIL-V motherboards stand out with their strong performance, advanced management features, flexible storage options, and efficient thermal design. These characteristics make them ideal choices for businesses looking to build reliable and scalable data center solutions.