Asrock 4CoreDual-SATA2

[JWalker55]

Originally posted by: cpmee

Originally posted by: JWalker55

Originally posted by: cpmee

Originally posted by: JWalker55
I just recently rebuilt my system with this board and am having some lockup issues in XP.

My system is:
Asrock 4CoreDual-Sata2 Bios: 1.60
Core 2 Duo E4500 Allendale
1 GB (2x512 MB) PC3200
eVGA GeForce 7600GT 256 MB PCIe (Forceware 169.21)
Creative SB Audigy 1 w/front bay (onboard audio is disabled)
160 GB Seagate IDE
80 GB Hitachi IDE
40 GB Western Digital Sata
Samsung 16x DVD burner
Cyberhome 16X DVD burner
Enermax 460 Watt PSU

So far lockups seem random. It's only happened twice so far, but I know it will happen again in the future if I don't figure out the cause. The first lockup was in the middle of a game (NASCAR 2003). The 2nd was after I brought BeyondTV out of fullscreen mode back into windowed mode, then hit Live TV. In both instances I heard strange static/popping for a few seconds, then the system completely froze. One thing that concerns me is that I have noticed that the 12v rail is down in the 11.4 range, and occasionally dips down to 11.3, according to speedfan. BIOS shows 12.076v

Aside from those issues, performance seems pretty good. I have run this board in Vista, but didn't run it long enough to see any issues. I may just end up getting a different board along with memory.

Random lockups can point to memory. Have you run memtest86+ for at least a few hours ?

Yes, Speedfan voltage readings are off from bios readings and from meter readings. CPUIDs new Hardware monitor reports voltages that are close to meter readings.

Did you also disable the onboard midi and onboard gameport ?

The memory was taken from a perfectly stable system, but i've yet to run memtest on it.
I'll probably get some DDR2 eventually.

onboard midi and gameport are disabled.

Yeah, run memtest86+ for a few hours. Ram can be picky. Just because it runs flawlessly on one system doesnt mean it will on others.

In both instances I heard strange static/popping for a few seconds, then the system completely froze.

See if you can isolate where that noise is coming from. PSU maybe ?

Sorry, I should've clarified. The sound is coming from the speakers/sound card. That happened the first 2 times, haven't heard it since. If it were coming from my case, I would've tore it apart and diagnosed it right there.

I was finally able to get it to throw a BSOD, and ran the minidump through the debugger. It references nv4_mini.sys. Going to uninstall and reinstall another set of drivers and run memtest. I understand about memory compatibility issues.

 

[Merwood]

I plan on buying this Mb and am wondering if it will support this video card and ram modules

Asus EN8600GT SILENT/HTDP/512M nVidia 8600GT Chipset (540Mhz) 512MB (1.4Ghz) DDR3 Dual DVI Display Graphics Card

Kingston Dual Channel DDR2 667MHz/Kingston 2GB Kit DDR2 667 (KVR667D2N5K2/2G)(1GBX2)

Aside from that i plan on buying a core 2 quad 2.4 cpu

 

[Merwood]

From what i have read in this forum there have been problems with certain hardware ofr the Mainboard so i am listing everything that will be going into my new computer

mainboard: http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=350294

CPU:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=349999

Ram:Kingston Dual Channel DDR2 667MHz 2 Gigs

Graphics Card:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=351157

Hardrive:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=351220

PSU:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=309935

Sound Card:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=335808

Caseing:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=342346

DVD Burner:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=351260

Also a dvd rom:for burning on the fly:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=349442


So There you have it and also i'm having a friend who will be coming over and puting it all together , Basically i like to know if there is a guide as well or anything that i should change in terms of computer setup before buying these parts as i would hate to buy all of this and then have problems.

So i guess what i'm asking is for someone who knows computers inside and out to confirm that i won't have any problems with this hardware list or if there is any problems can i bypass is or is there a guide i can use to solove any problems that arise after building this computer .

I pretty much don't know alot about computers but i have done my research and am pretty sure all the hardware i have listed shouldidn't cause any problems for this type of mainboard

 

[jimmor]

Originally posted by: brokencase

Originally posted by: jimmor

Originally posted by: martianmisfit
^ thanks. i will give your suggestions a try and see what happens.

i'm interested on how brokencase was able to obtain a 2.7 GHz with this MoBo & Q6600...

The "brokencase" mobo is probably modified (ie, maybe increased Vcore and Vagp?). And high overclocking of a Q6600 is probably also dependent on whether you are using a G0 or B3 version ?

Brokencase .....
...has made no modification to his board.
...boots daily with the bios set at 277 fsb ~= 2.5Ghz
...can achieve 2.7Ghz only by using the softfsb utility as discussed earlier in this thread. It is Prime95 stable when at 2.7Ghz.
...has posted his bios settings much earlier in this thread and will not do so again unless he discovers something new and interesting.
...is running 2 gigs PC5300 4-4-4-12 memory.
...and has a Q6600 G0 cpu.
...along with a AGP ATI AIW 9000 video card.
...and his bios rev is 1.50

Ahhhhhhh, so you didn't modify anything, are using a G0 version (best choice) of Q6600, and can only achieve a 300 fsb by using "softfsb" from within windows ---> i'm sure that info will be very usefull to martianmisfit and others.

Before mods, my E4400/4coredual-sata2/PC2-6400/EIDE/7800gs agp setup was capable of around 290-300. After Vcore and Vagp increases, it now boots and operates fine at 320 (Orthos tested). My Geil PC2-6400 4-4-4-12 memory is always set to run fsb:mem of 1:1 (bios "266" option) at 3-3-3-9-1T. Can increase overclock to around 335 using "setfsb"in windows, but found not to be entirely stable and no real benefit to my situation.

And I always flash with the latest mobo bios. Or better still, when available I flash the "modified" vesions which restore the Asrock removed CIE/Speedstep functions.

 

[cpmee]

Originally posted by: Merwood
From what i have read in this forum there have been problems with certain hardware ofr the Mainboard so i am listing everything that will be going into my new computer

mainboard: http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=350294

CPU:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=349999

Ram:Kingston Dual Channel DDR2 667MHz 2 Gigs

Graphics Card:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=351157

Hardrive:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=351220

PSU:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=309935

Sound Card:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=335808

Caseing:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=342346

DVD Burner:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=351260

Also a dvd rom:for burning on the fly:http://www.infonec.com/site/ma...odule=detail&id=349442


So There you have it and also i'm having a friend who will be coming over and puting it all together , Basically i like to know if there is a guide as well or anything that i should change in terms of computer setup before buying these parts as i would hate to buy all of this and then have problems.

So i guess what i'm asking is for someone who knows computers inside and out to confirm that i won't have any problems with this hardware list or if there is any problems can i bypass is or is there a guide i can use to solove any problems that arise after building this computer .

I pretty much don't know alot about computers but i have done my research and am pretty sure all the hardware i have listed shouldidn't cause any problems for this type of mainboard

Since you have/are getting a PCI-E graphics card and have/are getting DDR2 ram, there is no point to getting this crossover motherboard. This board is great for people to use their older hardware on, ie agp and ddr1, but no point for a new build.

I would get the Abit IP35-E motherboard instead. And instead of ddr667 ram, get ddr800 or higher.

 

[Merwood]

Yes i know this mothboard is more for people who are upgradeing rather for people who are building a new computer but the fact remains i can't afford a higher end motherboard and that is why i am building a comp with this type of motherboard.

so again if someone can verify and confirm that this type of computer build would work please and nothing more .

 

[martianmisfit]

Originally posted by: brokencase

Originally posted by: jimmor

Originally posted by: martianmisfit
^ thanks. i will give your suggestions a try and see what happens.

i'm interested on how brokencase was able to obtain a 2.7 GHz with this MoBo & Q6600...

The "brokencase" mobo is probably modified (ie, maybe increased Vcore and Vagp?). And high overclocking of a Q6600 is probably also dependent on whether you are using a G0 or B3 version ?

Brokencase .....
...has made no modification to his board.
...boots daily with the bios set at 277 fsb ~= 2.5Ghz
...can achieve 2.7Ghz only by using the softfsb utility as discussed earlier in this thread. It is Prime95 stable when at 2.7Ghz.
...has posted his bios settings much earlier in this thread and will not do so again unless he discovers something new and interesting.
...is running 2 gigs PC5300 4-4-4-12 memory.
...and has a Q6600 G0 cpu.
...along with a AGP ATI AIW 9000 video card.
...and his bios rev is 1.50

yeah i tried your settings and basically my pc won't reboot after changing the bios.
it just hangs and i have to reset it until it starts back up and then load optimal settings to get her working right again.
should it take a couple of minutes to reboot or should it be instant?

do you mind telling me what type of RAM you're using? maybe a newegg link?
the only thing i'm doubtful about is i got PC5400 instead of PC5300. would that cause issues?

any help would be appreciated.

i'll have to check which Q6600 version i got.

 

[Budarow]

Hey guys, how about some opinions on whether or not my PS is adequate for a 4CoreDual based PC below? The know the Pentium D line sucks more juice than newer procs, but I'm guessing it ought to be okay with an Ultra V-Series 350w (ATX 120mm fan SATA Ready Power Supply with 18A on the 12V rail). I'm pretty sure the PS is defective and not just "underpowered" for the PC. The PC would not POST; however, the CPU fan, power supply fan and other case fans would spin-up. The monitor had a "blinking" cursor, but no messages.

I uninstalled the above Ultra power supply and installed another power supply (Thermaltake 430w) and the PC instantly POSTed and everything seems to be fine now (i.e., WinXP loaded, etc.). Just to make sure, I reinstalled the Ultra PS (prior to loading WinXP) and it was back to not POSTing again. So for sure, the issue is the PS.

The PC includes the following:

Motherboard:ASRocks 4CoreDual
CPU: Intel Pentium D925 at 3.0GHz (OEM HSF)
RAM:2 sticks of DDR2 PC6400 (OCZ)
Video:ATI X800XT PE (AGP)
Hard Drive:1 Maxtor 320GB
Sound: integrated
LAN:integrated
Optical Drives 2 DVD Burners (Samsung 203)
Fans: 5 total (3 case fans, the PS fan and the CPU fan)

There's nothing OC'd and all settings are on default/automatic. Also, the CPU and case temperature is good/normal.

Since the mobo was obviously receiving "some" power from the PS (i.e., the fans were spinning), I'm not sure if the PS is defective or if it just didn't have enough power for the PC. If the PS is defective, I need to exchange it.

Thank You,

 

[bigsnyder]

Originally posted by: Merwood
Yes i know this mothboard is more for people who are upgradeing rather for people who are building a new computer but the fact remains i can't afford a higher end motherboard and that is why i am building a comp with this type of motherboard.

so again if someone can verify and confirm that this type of computer build would work please and nothing more .

I would recommend the following board if budget is an issue.
Gigabyte GA-P35-DS3L

As much as I like my 775Dual, it is holding my system back now that I upgraded to DDR2,
SATA, and PCIe graphics.

 

[jimmor]

Originally posted by: martianmisfit

Originally posted by: brokencase

Originally posted by: jimmor

Originally posted by: martianmisfit
^ thanks. i will give your suggestions a try and see what happens.

i'm interested on how brokencase was able to obtain a 2.7 GHz with this MoBo & Q6600...

The "brokencase" mobo is probably modified (ie, maybe increased Vcore and Vagp?). And high overclocking of a Q6600 is probably also dependent on whether you are using a G0 or B3 version ?

Brokencase .....
...has made no modification to his board.
...boots daily with the bios set at 277 fsb ~= 2.5Ghz
...can achieve 2.7Ghz only by using the softfsb utility as discussed earlier in this thread. It is Prime95 stable when at 2.7Ghz.
...has posted his bios settings much earlier in this thread and will not do so again unless he discovers something new and interesting.
...is running 2 gigs PC5300 4-4-4-12 memory.
...and has a Q6600 G0 cpu.
...along with a AGP ATI AIW 9000 video card.
...and his bios rev is 1.50

yeah i tried your settings and basically my pc won't reboot after changing the bios.
it just hangs and i have to reset it until it starts back up and then load optimal settings to get her working right again.
should it take a couple of minutes to reboot or should it be instant?


do you mind telling me what type of RAM you're using? maybe a newegg link?
the only thing i'm doubtful about is i got PC5400 instead of PC5300. would that cause issues?

any help would be appreciated.

i'll have to check which Q6600 version i got.

Presumably by "won't reboot after changing the bios", you mean after flashing with a new bios ?

If so, then that would be expected, since as I posted ---> after flashing with a new bios you must remember to CLEAR the CMOS !

And whether rebooting to windows will take two minutes, or more, depends entirely on how many devices and drivers you have in your windows setup ?

Also, unless the operating volts spec for your particular PC2-5400 lies outside the range 1.8-2v, it should work ok with this mobo. But as previously posted, it is advisable that you set the bios's memory parameters manually.

The memory I use is just Geil DDR2 800 (PC2-6400) Ultra, which looks like that linked below,

http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16820144062


Have you tried all the different bios parameter changes I posted ---> reason I ask is because NOBODY out here can tell you what will work best for your setup ---> it is therefore up to you to try peoples different suggestions, and of course any of your own ideas, untill you achieve the bios or otherwise settings that best suit your particular combination of mobo connected devices; particularly cpu,memory,hdd's,audio,video ?

 

[jimmor]

Originally posted by: Budarow
Hey guys, how about some opinions on whether or not my PS is adequate for a 4CoreDual based PC below? The know the Pentium D line sucks more juice than newer procs, but I'm guessing it ought to be okay with an Ultra V-Series 350w (ATX 120mm fan SATA Ready Power Supply with 18A on the 12V rail). I'm pretty sure the PS is defective and not just "underpowered" for the PC. The PC would not POST; however, the CPU fan, power supply fan and other case fans would spin-up. The monitor had a "blinking" cursor, but no messages.

I uninstalled the above Ultra power supply and installed another power supply (Thermaltake 430w) and the PC instantly POSTed and everything seems to be fine now (i.e., WinXP loaded, etc.). Just to make sure, I reinstalled the Ultra PS (prior to loading WinXP) and it was back to not POSTing again. So for sure, the issue is the PS.

The PC includes the following:

Motherboard:ASRocks 4CoreDual
CPU: Intel Pentium D925 at 3.0GHz (OEM HSF)
RAM:2 sticks of DDR2 PC6400 (OCZ)
Video:ATI X800XT PE (AGP)
Hard Drive:1 Maxtor 320GB
Sound: integrated
LAN:integrated
Optical Drives 2 DVD Burners (Samsung 203)
Fans: 5 total (3 case fans, the PS fan and the CPU fan)

There's nothing OC'd and all settings are on default/automatic. Also, the CPU and case temperature is good/normal.

Since the mobo was obviously receiving "some" power from the PS (i.e., the fans were spinning), I'm not sure if the PS is defective or if it just didn't have enough power for the PC. If the PS is defective, I need to exchange it.

Thank You,

Not sure what you are asking for, or why ?

You removed a "Ultra V-Series 350w" psu because your setup wouldn't post. You installed a "Thermaltake 430w" psu and everything now works ok?

So now you are trying to get people on this forum who have no access to your "old" 350watt psu to tell you whether it was faulty or just had insufficient power for your particular setup ??

Why does it matter, are you maybe intending to RMA it ?

You could obviously try switching off, or disconnecting, unnecessary to booting devices, ie, bios's integrated audio & lan, your 2 DVD burners and some case fans. If you then still can't boot, then likely your psu is faulty ---> assuming of course it ever worked with your computer setup?

Of course if your Ultra V-series 350 is nothing more than a cheap "generic" psu, then I suggest you bin it and move onto a proper branded psu like the Thermaltake 430W you tested with !

 

[Budarow]

Originally posted by: jimmor

Originally posted by: Budarow
Hey guys, how about some opinions on whether or not my PS is adequate for a 4CoreDual based PC below? The know the Pentium D line sucks more juice than newer procs, but I'm guessing it ought to be okay with an Ultra V-Series 350w (ATX 120mm fan SATA Ready Power Supply with 18A on the 12V rail). I'm pretty sure the PS is defective and not just "underpowered" for the PC. The PC would not POST; however, the CPU fan, power supply fan and other case fans would spin-up. The monitor had a "blinking" cursor, but no messages.

I uninstalled the above Ultra power supply and installed another power supply (Thermaltake 430w) and the PC instantly POSTed and everything seems to be fine now (i.e., WinXP loaded, etc.). Just to make sure, I reinstalled the Ultra PS (prior to loading WinXP) and it was back to not POSTing again. So for sure, the issue is the PS.

The PC includes the following:

Motherboard:ASRocks 4CoreDual
CPU: Intel Pentium D925 at 3.0GHz (OEM HSF)
RAM:2 sticks of DDR2 PC6400 (OCZ)
Video:ATI X800XT PE (AGP)
Hard Drive:1 Maxtor 320GB
Sound: integrated
LAN:integrated
Optical Drives 2 DVD Burners (Samsung 203)
Fans: 5 total (3 case fans, the PS fan and the CPU fan)

There's nothing OC'd and all settings are on default/automatic. Also, the CPU and case temperature is good/normal.

Since the mobo was obviously receiving "some" power from the PS (i.e., the fans were spinning), I'm not sure if the PS is defective or if it just didn't have enough power for the PC. If the PS is defective, I need to exchange it.

Thank You,

Not sure what you are asking for, or why ?

You removed a "Ultra V-Series 350w" psu because your setup wouldn't post. You installed a "Thermaltake 430w" psu and everything now works ok? YES

So now you are trying to get people on this forum who have no access to your "old" 350watt psu to tell you whether it was faulty or just had insufficient power for your particular setup ??

Why does it matter, are you maybe intending to RMA it ? YES

You could obviously try switching off, or disconnecting, unnecessary to booting devices, ie, bios's integrated audio & lan, your 2 DVD burners and some case fans. If you then still can't boot, then likely your psu is faulty ---> assuming of course it ever worked with your computer setup? This is a good idea and I'll try this.

Of course if your Ultra V-series 350 is nothing more than a cheap "generic" psu, then I suggest you bin it and move onto a proper branded psu like the Thermaltake 430W you tested with !

Thanks for the suggestions

I received an e-mail from Ultra Products. The CSR went to the Newegg website and used their wattage calculator (never knew they had 1). Ultra came up with a 453w PS for my PC and said they recommend going ~100w over the "minimum" recommended wattage (so 553w).

Geez...if the Newegg calculator is right, 1 would think all the OEM PC builders out there who install power supplies which have ~1/2 (or less) the "recommended" wattage (per the calculator on Newegg's site) would be replacing the PS' in at least 50% of the PCs they sell.

IMO, I think the Newegg calculator is BS. Seems to be a marketing tool to get peeps to over engineer and buy more expensive PS'.

 

[cpmee]

Originally posted by: Merwood
Yes i know this mothboard is more for people who are upgradeing rather for people who are building a new computer but the fact remains i can't afford a higher end motherboard and that is why i am building a comp with this type of motherboard.

so again if someone can verify and confirm that this type of computer build would work please and nothing more .

Yes, the stuff you have above will work with the 4cordual-sata2, but thats it, it will work, it wont fly like it would if you got an P35 type board.

The price difference in the US is only about $30 between the 4coredual-sata2 and the Abit IP35-E. By getting Adata pc6400 ddr2-800 instead of the Kingston ddr2667, you could almost save that much and have faster ram too. Any reason for the pricey sound card ? Onboard Intel HD audio isnt bad at all.


The Gigabyte GA P35-DS3L is also a good board for the money. I just personally like Abit for the stability.

I also like my 4coredual-Sata2, but I know its limitations. The biggest are the fsb wall, and the 2 gigabyte memory limitation. 2 gigs is fine for now, but in the future when the 64bit OS is perfected, 8 gigs will be the way to go. Most people buying this board do so with the intention they will get rid of it after they transition to ddr2 and pci-e video.
So it boils down, why do you want to only walk when you could fly for less than 5% more in total system cost ?

 

[cpmee]

Originally posted by: Budarow

Originally posted by: jimmor

Originally posted by: Budarow
Hey guys, how about some opinions on whether or not my PS is adequate for a 4CoreDual based PC below? The know the Pentium D line sucks more juice than newer procs, but I'm guessing it ought to be okay with an Ultra V-Series 350w (ATX 120mm fan SATA Ready Power Supply with 18A on the 12V rail). I'm pretty sure the PS is defective and not just "underpowered" for the PC. The PC would not POST; however, the CPU fan, power supply fan and other case fans would spin-up. The monitor had a "blinking" cursor, but no messages.

I uninstalled the above Ultra power supply and installed another power supply (Thermaltake 430w) and the PC instantly POSTed and everything seems to be fine now (i.e., WinXP loaded, etc.). Just to make sure, I reinstalled the Ultra PS (prior to loading WinXP) and it was back to not POSTing again. So for sure, the issue is the PS.

The PC includes the following:

Motherboard:ASRocks 4CoreDual
CPU: Intel Pentium D925 at 3.0GHz (OEM HSF)
RAM:2 sticks of DDR2 PC6400 (OCZ)
Video:ATI X800XT PE (AGP)
Hard Drive:1 Maxtor 320GB
Sound: integrated
LAN:integrated
Optical Drives 2 DVD Burners (Samsung 203)
Fans: 5 total (3 case fans, the PS fan and the CPU fan)

There's nothing OC'd and all settings are on default/automatic. Also, the CPU and case temperature is good/normal.

Since the mobo was obviously receiving "some" power from the PS (i.e., the fans were spinning), I'm not sure if the PS is defective or if it just didn't have enough power for the PC. If the PS is defective, I need to exchange it.

Thank You,

Not sure what you are asking for, or why ?

You removed a "Ultra V-Series 350w" psu because your setup wouldn't post. You installed a "Thermaltake 430w" psu and everything now works ok? YES

So now you are trying to get people on this forum who have no access to your "old" 350watt psu to tell you whether it was faulty or just had insufficient power for your particular setup ??

Why does it matter, are you maybe intending to RMA it ? YES

You could obviously try switching off, or disconnecting, unnecessary to booting devices, ie, bios's integrated audio & lan, your 2 DVD burners and some case fans. If you then still can't boot, then likely your psu is faulty ---> assuming of course it ever worked with your computer setup? This is a good idea and I'll try this.

Of course if your Ultra V-series 350 is nothing more than a cheap "generic" psu, then I suggest you bin it and move onto a proper branded psu like the Thermaltake 430W you tested with !

Thanks for the suggestions

I received an e-mail from Ultra Products. The CSR went to the Newegg website and used their wattage calculator (never knew they had 1). Ultra came up with a 453w PS for my PC and said they recommend going ~100w over the "minimum" recommended wattage (so 553w).

Geez...if the Newegg calculator is right, 1 would think all the OEM PC builders out there who install power supplies which have ~1/2 (or less) the "recommended" wattage (per the calculator on Newegg's site) would be replacing the PS' in at least 50% of the PCs they sell.

IMO, I think the Newegg calculator is BS. Seems to be a marketing tool to get peeps to over engineer and buy more expensive PS'.

The OEMs have had plenty of power supply issues to deal with. I dont think any would have sold a system with Video:ATI X800XT PE (AGP) /350watt psu, unless it was only with a 15 day guarantee. They would have increased their profits on the higher watt psu too.

Large OEMs, like Dell, Gateway, Compaq, etc have their systems engineered to the last watt. If you later put just 1 stick of memory or a dinky pci card in it, watch out, the psu blows. Dell has had large returns, they have trying to keep quiet about, because they cheaped out on the psu on some models.

 

[martianmisfit]

Originally posted by: jimmor

Presumably by "won't reboot after changing the bios", you mean after flashing with a new bios ?

If so, then that would be expected, since as I posted ---> after flashing with a new bios you must remember to CLEAR the CMOS !

And whether rebooting to windows will take two minutes, or more, depends entirely on how many devices and drivers you have in your windows setup ?

Also, unless the operating volts spec for your particular PC2-5400 lies outside the range 1.8-2v, it should work ok with this mobo. But as previously posted, it is advisable that you set the bios's memory parameters manually.

The memory I use is just Geil DDR2 800 (PC2-6400) Ultra, which looks like that linked below,

http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16820144062


Have you tried all the different bios parameter changes I posted ---> reason I ask is because NOBODY out here can tell you what will work best for your setup ---> it is therefore up to you to try peoples different suggestions, and of course any of your own ideas, untill you achieve the bios or otherwise settings that best suit your particular combination of mobo connected devices; particularly cpu,memory,hdd's,audio,video ?

i didn't get to try ur settings you posted the other day. i will try them tonight.
the RAM lists 1.8-2v and registers 2Gbs just not at 667Mhz but 533Mhz.
so far the ram is what's giving me a Vista score of 4.6 when all my other scores are 5.4+.

you know i think i haven't cleared my CMOS after i flashed by bios recently. i'll give that a try too. oh and by "won't reboot after changing the bios" i meant after making changes in the bios. it just hangs.

so i should clear my CMOS, then reflash my bios, then clear my CMOS again...
maybe that'll help?

 

[brokencase]

Originally posted by: martianmisfit

do you mind telling me what type of RAM you're using? maybe a newegg link?
the only thing i'm doubtful about is i got PC5400 instead of PC5300. would that cause issues?

any help would be appreciated.

i'll have to check which Q6600 version i got.

I have PNY Memory 2x1gig DDR2 667

The cpu-z utility reports it as:
PC2-5300 (333mhz)
Hyundai Electronics
HYMP512U64CP8-Y5
and 4-4-4-12-16 timings @ 266mhz speed

I didn't buy it at newegg but this looks close:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16820178134

 

[martianmisfit]

Originally posted by: brokencase
I have PNY Memory 2x1gig DDR2 667

The cpu-z utility reports it as:
PC2-5300 (333mhz)
Hyundai Electronics
HYMP512U64CP8-Y5
and 4-4-4-12-16 timings @ 266mhz speed

I didn't buy it at newegg but this looks close:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16820178134

where did you get it from?
are u running Vista? if so what's ur memory subscore?

 

[brokencase]

Originally posted by: martianmisfit
where did you get it from?
are u running Vista? if so what's ur memory subscore?

I bought it locally.
I think it was Officemax or someplace like that.
I am not running Vista.

 

[Requena]

Hi,
I want to buy a new video card ATI Radeon HD3870 PCI-Express 2.0 and I want to know
if there are any incompatibility issue with this card.
I know that this motherboard have PCI Express 1.0a 4X
Is good buy this video card or I lose performances with the PCI Express slot?
or is better buy a HD3850 512MB GDDR3 AGP?

I actually have a ATI X1950 512 Pro AGP slot.

Thanks for any information.

 

[martianmisfit]

no luck with your recommended bios settings jimmor.
when i click save & exit the pc just hangs and the keyboard, mouse & monitor display all turn off.
i have to manually turn off & on the pc until the it reboots and it changes the proc speed from 2.4 Ghz to 2.27 GHz.

maybe i should try the ram brokencase is using...

* on a side note:
anyone try using 4GBs (2x@GBs) of ram? this guy at tomshardware forums claims to have done it.

Hi,

I have my 4coredual-sata2 working with 4GB of RAM. I am using 2x2GB of "Super Talent" DDR2 800. Initially it was only able to boot with one DIMM populated (single channel) until I changed two parameters in the BIOS:
- DRAM frequency = DDR2 667
- DRAM voltage = Low

I use an E2180 @2.8G (FSB=280MHz). Maybe it can go higher but I am not sure yet and I am quite happy with the current settings (I only tried 3GHz and it failed)

I've been running Prime95 and so far so good ...

Cheers!

well let me see what else i can do.
thanks for the help guys.

 

[cpmee]

Originally posted by: Requena
Hi,
I want to buy a new video card ATI Radeon HD3870 PCI-Express 2.0 and I want to know
if there are any incompatibility issue with this card.
I know that this motherboard have PCI Express 1.0a 4X
Is good buy this video card or I lose performances with the PCI Express slot?
or is better buy a HD3850 512MB GDDR3 AGP?

I actually have a ATI X1950 512 Pro AGP slot.

Thanks for any information.

In order to use the card, you have to update the bios to 1.80.

You lose some performance with 4x pci-e, but not much. Links:


http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/...-uk,review-2125-8.html

 

[fritzfield]

Hey martianmisfit:

Could you provide a link to the Tom'sHardware forum that discusses using 2 Gig DDR2 RAM sticks on this mobo?

I'd really like to try this, but I need to know how it works as there appears to be no support for this in BIOS upgrades.

 

[martianmisfit]

Originally posted by: fritzfield
Hey martianmisfit:

Could you provide a link to the Tom'sHardware forum that discusses using 2 Gig DDR2 RAM sticks on this mobo?

I'd really like to try this, but I need to know how it works as there appears to be no support for this in BIOS upgrades.

here you go - http://www.tomshardware.com/fo...-30-4coredual-possible

at the bottom there's someone asking for a screenshot of CPU-Z to verify,
but the guy hasn't responded.

 

[Budarow]

Originally posted by: cpmee

Originally posted by: Budarow

Originally posted by: jimmor

Originally posted by: Budarow
Hey guys, how about some opinions on whether or not my PS is adequate for a 4CoreDual based PC below? The know the Pentium D line sucks more juice than newer procs, but I'm guessing it ought to be okay with an Ultra V-Series 350w (ATX 120mm fan SATA Ready Power Supply with 18A on the 12V rail). I'm pretty sure the PS is defective and not just "underpowered" for the PC. The PC would not POST; however, the CPU fan, power supply fan and other case fans would spin-up. The monitor had a "blinking" cursor, but no messages.

I uninstalled the above Ultra power supply and installed another power supply (Thermaltake 430w) and the PC instantly POSTed and everything seems to be fine now (i.e., WinXP loaded, etc.). Just to make sure, I reinstalled the Ultra PS (prior to loading WinXP) and it was back to not POSTing again. So for sure, the issue is the PS.

The PC includes the following:

Motherboard:ASRocks 4CoreDual
CPU: Intel Pentium D925 at 3.0GHz (OEM HSF)
RAM:2 sticks of DDR2 PC6400 (OCZ)
Video:ATI X800XT PE (AGP)
Hard Drive:1 Maxtor 320GB
Sound: integrated
LAN:integrated
Optical Drives 2 DVD Burners (Samsung 203)
Fans: 5 total (3 case fans, the PS fan and the CPU fan)

There's nothing OC'd and all settings are on default/automatic. Also, the CPU and case temperature is good/normal.

Since the mobo was obviously receiving "some" power from the PS (i.e., the fans were spinning), I'm not sure if the PS is defective or if it just didn't have enough power for the PC. If the PS is defective, I need to exchange it.

Thank You,

Not sure what you are asking for, or why ?

You removed a "Ultra V-Series 350w" psu because your setup wouldn't post. You installed a "Thermaltake 430w" psu and everything now works ok? YES

So now you are trying to get people on this forum who have no access to your "old" 350watt psu to tell you whether it was faulty or just had insufficient power for your particular setup ??

Why does it matter, are you maybe intending to RMA it ? YES

You could obviously try switching off, or disconnecting, unnecessary to booting devices, ie, bios's integrated audio & lan, your 2 DVD burners and some case fans. If you then still can't boot, then likely your psu is faulty ---> assuming of course it ever worked with your computer setup? This is a good idea and I'll try this.

Of course if your Ultra V-series 350 is nothing more than a cheap "generic" psu, then I suggest you bin it and move onto a proper branded psu like the Thermaltake 430W you tested with !

Thanks for the suggestions

I received an e-mail from Ultra Products. The CSR went to the Newegg website and used their wattage calculator (never knew they had 1). Ultra came up with a 453w PS for my PC and said they recommend going ~100w over the "minimum" recommended wattage (so 553w).

Geez...if the Newegg calculator is right, 1 would think all the OEM PC builders out there who install power supplies which have ~1/2 (or less) the "recommended" wattage (per the calculator on Newegg's site) would be replacing the PS' in at least 50% of the PCs they sell.

IMO, I think the Newegg calculator is BS. Seems to be a marketing tool to get peeps to over engineer and buy more expensive PS'.

The OEMs have had plenty of power supply issues to deal with. I dont think any would have sold a system with Video:ATI X800XT PE (AGP) /350watt psu, unless it was only with a 15 day guarantee. They would have increased their profits on the higher watt psu too.

Large OEMs, like Dell, Gateway, Compaq, etc have their systems engineered to the last watt. If you later put just 1 stick of memory or a dinky pci card in it, watch out, the psu blows. Dell has had large returns, they have trying to keep quiet about, because they cheaped out on the psu on some models.

I agree with you, all I'm saying is a decent quality 350w PS with 18a on the 12V rail should have more than enough juice to allow a PC with my specs to POST. And this PS is supposed to be decent. Just guessing, but I'd imagine my PC at idle would draw less than ~150 watts. I'll disconnect a bunch of components just to test this PS, but I'm guessing it won't make a difference and the PC still won't post and I'll be RMAing this PS.

 

[bujeezus]

forgive me guys n gals if this has already been answered, but i just couldn't bring myself to read thru 32 pages (i got to 24 before my eyes started to glaze over)

i just recently got this board in a barebones sysytem. i'm runnin a E2160 @ 267 fsb as the only oc'ing coz i'm happy with it and it's stable. also runnin a lot of legacy stuff. 1 gig ddr (2 512 sticks) memory, x800 agp card an 2 ide hdd's. my only complaint with this system is an abnormally long boot up time and the onboard sound doesn't work. usually about 35 secs before i see the windows xp logo (xp pro serv. pack 2). is this a simple fix? thanks in advance for any help. great forum btw.