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Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.6.2 Configuring an expansion card
Some expansion cards need an IRQ to operate. Generally, an IRQ must be
exclusively assigned to one function at a time. In a standard design
configuration, 16 IRQs are available but most are already in use. Normally,
6 IRQs are free for expansion cards. If the motherboard has PCI audio
onboard, an additional IRQ will be used. If your motherboard also has MIDI
enabled, another IRQ will be used, leaving 4 IRQs free. Sometimes IRQs
are “shared” by more than one function; in this case, IRQ assignments are
swapped automatically or adjusted through the BIOS firmware.
2.6 Expansion slots
The motherboard has five PCI slot and one Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)
slot.. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards
that they support.
2.6.1 Installing an expansion card
Follow these steps to install an expansion
card.
1. Before installing the expansion card, read
the documentation that came with it and
make the necessary hardware settings.
2. Remove the system unit cover (if your
motherboard is already installed in a
chassis).
3. Remove the bracket opposite the PCI slot.
Keep the screw for later use.
4. Align the card connector with the slot and
press firmly until the card is completely
seated on the slot.
5. Secure the card to the chassis with the
screw you removed earlier.
6. Replace the system cover.
7. Set up the BIOS if necessary.
8. Install the necessary software drivers for your expansion card.
WARNING! Unplug your power supply when adding or removing
expansion cards or other system components. Failure to do so may cause
you physical injury and damage motherboard components.