User`s manual

3-4
SUPER P6DGS/P6DGE/P6DGU/P6SGU Manual
3-3 Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are the differences between the various memo-
ries that the 440GX motherboard can support?
Answer: The 440GX integrates a main memory DRAM controller that
supports a 64-bit or 72-bit (64 bits of memory data plus 8 ECC bits.) DRAM
from 8 MB to 512 MB for SDRAM and from 8 MB to 2 GB SDRAM/registered
DIMMs. DRAM types supported are either Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) or
Registered DIMM modules. Please note the following:
1. Mixing ECC and non-ECC will result in non-ECC operation. EC/ECC is
supported properly in the 440GX only if all the memory is 72-bits wide. A
system with a mixture of 64- and 72-bit wide memory will disable ECC mode.
2. Registered SDRAM and unbuffered SDRAM cannot be mixed.
3. Mixing PC/100 DIMMs and PC/66 DIMMs will result in an unexpected
memory count or system errors.
4. User should populate memory starting with the DIMM socket located the
furthest from the GX chip (U2 on P6DGS/P6DGE or U4 on P6DGU/P6SGU).
Question: How do I update my BIOS?
Answer: It is recommended that you do not update your BIOS if you are
experiencing no problems with your system. Update BIOS files are located on
our web site at http://www.supermicro.com. Please check the current BIOS
revision and make sure it is newer than your BIOS before downloading. Select
your motherboard model and download the BIOS file to your computer. Unzip the
BIOS update file and you will find three files: readme.txt (flash instructions),
sm2flash.com (BIOS flash utility), and the BIOS image file (xxxxxx.rom). Copy
these files onto a bootable floppy and reboot your system. It is not necessary
to set BIOS boot block protection jumpers on the motherboard. At the DOS
prompt, enter the command "sm2flash." This will start the flash utility and give
you an opportunity to save your current BIOS image. Flash the boot block and
enter the name of the update BIOS image file. NOTE: It is important to save your
current BIOS and rename it "super.rom" in case you need to recover from a failed
BIOS update. Select flash boot block, then enter the update BIOS image. Select
"Y" to start the BIOS flash procedure and do not disturb your system until
the flash utility displays that the procedure is complete. After updating your
BIOS, please clear the CMOS then load Optimal Values in the BIOS.