Intel(R) Corporation
Intel® VC820 Motherboard

The products you are looking for are no longer manufactured by Intel. Additionally, Intel no longer provides interactive support for these products via telephone or e-mail, nor will Intel provide any future content updates or software updates to support new operating systems or improve compatibility with third party devices and software products.

THESE PRODUCT SUPPORT DOCUMENTS ARE PROVIDED FOR HISTORICAL REFERENCE ONLY AND ARE SUBJECT TO THE TERMS SET FORTH IN THE "TERMS OF USE" INFORMATION.

Information on currently available Intel products is available at www.intel.com and/or developer.intel.com

Any links to internet Web sites will require an internet connection


Software and drivers
Bios and drivers

Product Documentation
icon Technical Product Specification
icon Specification Update

Compatibility
Supported processors
The IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 supports either a single PentiumŪ III processor at system bus frequencies of 1 GHz, 133 MHz, 256 KB, P17 or greater, or a single PentiumŪ II processor at a system bus frequency of 100 MHz. The processor's VID pins automatically program the voltage regulator on the desktop board to the required processor voltage. The system bus speed of 100 MHz or 133 MHz is automatically selected. The processor connects to the desktop board through the 242-contact slot connector.

Warning: Processors not specifically listed by type and rated speed may have requirements that are not supported by the desktop board's design. Use of unsupported processors may result in improper operation, damage to the desktop board or processor, or reduced product life.

Processor Family Processor Speed System Bus Frequency Cache Size BIOS Version
PentiumŪ III processor 1 GHz 133 MHz 256 KB P17 or greater
933 MHz 133 MHz 256 KB P17 or greater
866 MHz 133 MHz 256 KB P08 or greater
850 MHz 100 MHz 256 KB P08 or greater
800EB MHz 133 MHz 256 KB P08 or greater
800 MHz 100 MHz 256 KB P08 or greater
750 MHz 100 MHz 256 KB P08 or greater
733 MHz 133 MHz 256 KB P04 or greater
700 MHz 100 MHz 256 KB P04 or greater
667 MHz 133 MHz 256 KB P04 or greater
650 MHz 100 MHz 256 KB P04 or greater
600EB MHz 133 MHz 256 KB P04 or greater
600E MHz 100 MHz 256 KB P04 or greater
600B MHz 133 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater
600 MHz 100 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater
550E MHz 100 MHz 256 KB P04 or greater
550 MHz 100 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater
533EB MHz 133 MHz 256 KB P04 or greater
533B MHz 133 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater
500 MHz 100 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater
450 MHz 100 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater
PentiumŪ II processor 450 MHz 100 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater
400 MHz 100 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater
350 MHz 100 MHz 512 KB P04 or greater


Use of unsupported processors may result in improper operation, damage to the desktop board or processor, or reduced product life. Except as provided in Intel's Terms and conditions of Sale for such products, INTEL ASSUMES NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER, AND INTEL DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY, RELATING TO SALE AND/OR USE OF THE INTEL PRODUCTS INCLUDING LIABILITY OR WARRANTIESRELATING TO FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, MERCHANTABILITY, OR INFRINGEMENT OF ANY PATENTCOPYRIGHT OR OTHER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHT.

Board Revision note: A small bar-coded label, similar to the diagram shown below, can be found on the component side of the desktop board. The numbers following the letters "AA" can help identify the type and version of your desktop board. The AA contains a 6digit main number, and a 3 digit dash number (the 3 numbers following the "-".

The statement "...or later" refers to the dash number of the AA (the three numbers following the"-"). If this number is greater than the number listed in the table, the board supports the associated processor(s).

If your 6 digit main number is not listed in the table, contact your system manufacturer for processor support information.



System memory
The IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 supports dynamic memory detection for one or two 2.5V, 168-pin, PC600, PC700, or PC800 RIMM* modules that support ECC or non-ECC.

The Intel Desktop Board VC820 supports a single Rambus* memory channel. The board supports the following memory features:
  • Up to two 2.5V, 168-pin, RIMM* modules
  • Single or double-sided RIMM module configurations
  • Serial Presence Detect (SPD) memory (only)
  • Non-ECC or ECC memory
  • 512 MB maximum capability utilizing two 256 MB RIMM modules

Due to the demands of today's software applications, a minimum of 64 MB of system memory is recommended.

Memory is supported at speeds of PC600, PC700, and PC800. The following table illustrates the memory bus frequency that the memory will operate at for a given host bus frequency:

  PC600 PC700 PC800
Host bus frequency: 100 MHz 300 MHz See note below 400 MHz
Host bus frequency: 133 MHz 266 MHz 356 MHz 400 MHz

Note PC700 memory will be configured to run at 300 MHz when operating on a 100 MHz bus system. This is equivalent to PC600 performance.


Note Both RIMM sockets on the Intel Desktop Board VC820 must be populated with either a RIMM module or a Continuity RIMM. If either RIMM socket is not populated, then the board will not boot.


Tested memory
Contents
Vendor Tested Memory
The table below lists parts which passed either BASIC or FULL testing conducted by Intel for the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820. Parts tested by third-party RIMM vendors can be found under the list of "RIMM Vendors - Web Sites" section above.

PC600 RIMMs
Manufacturer Size (MB) Test Level Manufacturer Part Number Number of Devices ECC or non-ECC
Infineon 128 MB FULL HYR186420G-653 8 ECC
NEC 64 MB FULL MC-4R64CEE6C-653 4 Non-ECC
NEC 128 MB FULL MC-4R128CEE6C-653 8 Non-ECC
NEC 256 MB FULL MC-4R256CEE6C-845 16 Non-ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL KMMR18R84AC1-RG61 4 ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL MR18R0824AG1-CG600 4 ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL KMMR18R86AC1-RG61 6 ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL MR18R0826AG1-CG600 6 ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL KMMR18R88AC1-RG61 8 ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL MR18R0828AG1-CG600 8 ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL KMMR18R8CAC1-RG61 12 ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL MR18R082CAG1-CG600 12 ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL KMMR18R8GAC1-RG61 16 ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL MR18R082GAG1-CG600 16 ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL KMMR16R84AC1-RG61 4 Non-ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL KMMR16R86AC1-RG61 6 Non-ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL KMMR16R88AC1-RG61 8 Non-ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL KMMR16R8CAC1-RG61 12 Non-ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL KMMR16R8GAC1-RG61 16 Non-ECC

PC700 RIMMs
Manufacturer Size (MB) Test Level Manufacturer Part Number Number of Devices ECC or non-ECC
Infineon 128 MB FULL HYR186420G-745 8 ECC
Kingston 64 MB BASIC KVR700x18-4/64 4 ECC
NEC 64 MB FULL MC-4R64CEE6C-745 4 Non-ECC
NEC 128 MB FULL MC-4R128CEE6C-745 8 Non-ECC
NEC 256 MB FULL MC-4R256CEE6C-745 16 Non-ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL KMMR18R84AC1-RK71 4 ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL KMMR18R86AC1-RK71 4 ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL KMMR18R88AC1-RK71 4 ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL KMMR16R84AC1-RK71 4 Non-ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL MR16R0824AG1-CK700 4 Non-ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL KMMR16R86AC1-RK71 6 Non-ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL MR16R0826AG1-CK700 6 Non-ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL KMMR16R88AC1-RK71 8 Non-ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL MR16R0828AG1-CK700 8 Non-ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL KMMR16R8CAC1-RK71 12 Non-ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL MR16R082CAG1-CK700 12 Non-ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL KMMR16R8GAC1-RK71 16 Non-ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL MR16R082GAG1-CK700 16 Non-ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL KMMR18R8CAC1-RK71 12 ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL MR18R082CAG1-CK700 12 ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL KMMR18R8GAC1-RK71 16 ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL MR18R082GAG1-CK700 16 ECC
Smart Modular 64 MB BASIC SMH072RFSAH01 4 ECC
Smart Modular 96 MB BASIC SMH108RFSAH01 6 ECC
Smart Modular 128 MB BASIC SMH144RFSAH01 8 ECC

PC800 RIMMs
Manufacturer1 Size (MB) Test Level Manufacturer Part Number Number of Devices ECC or non-ECC
Infineon 128 MB FULL HYR186420G-845 8 ECC
Kingston 64 MB BASIC KVR800x18-4/64 4 ECC
Kingston 128 MB BASIC KVR800x18-8/128 8 ECC
Kingston 256 MB BASIC KVR800X18-16/256 16 ECC
NEC 64 MB FULL MC-4R64CEE6C-845 4 Non-ECC
NEC 128 MB FULL MC-4R128CEE6C-845 8 Non-ECC
NEC 256 MB FULL MC-4R256CEE6C-845 16 Non-ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL KMMR18R84AC1-RK81 4 ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL MR18R0824AG1-CK800 4 ECC
Samsung 64 MB FULL KMMR16R84AC1-RK81 4 Non-ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL KMMR18R86AC1-RK81 6 ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL MR18R0826AG1-CK800 6 ECC
Samsung 96 MB FULL KMMR16R86AC1-RK81 6 Non-ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL KMMR18R88AC1-RK81 8 ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL MR18R0828AG1-CK800 8 ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL MR16R0828AG1-CK800 8 Non-ECC
Samsung 128 MB FULL KMMR16R88AC1-RK81 8 Non-ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL KMMR18R8CAC1-RK81 12 ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL MR18R082CAG1-CK800 12 ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL KMMR16R8CAC1-RK81 12 Non-ECC
Samsung 192 MB FULL MR16R082CAG1-CK800 12 Non-ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL KMMR18R8GAC1-RK81 16 ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL MR18R082GAG1-CK800 16 ECC
Samsung 256 MB FULL KMMR16R8GAC1-RK81 16 Non-ECC
Smart Modular 64 MB BASIC SMH072RFS0D02 4 ECC
Smart Modular 128 MB BASIC SMH144RFS0D01 8 ECC
1 These Samsung part numbers are obsolete.

System Memory Combinations

The desktop board uses Rambus* RDRAM RIMM* technology.
The desktop board supports the following memory features:
  • Up to two 2.5 V, 168-pin RIMM modules
  • Single- or double-sided RIMM module configurations
  • Serial Presence Detect (SPD) memory only
  • Non-ECC with 16-bit components (128 Mbit technology)
  • ECC with 18-bit components (144 Mbit technology)
  • 512 MB maximum onboard capacity using 128/144 Mbit technology

Caution. The board supports combinations of no more than 32 RDRAM components across all installed RIMM modules. If the total number of RDRAM components installed in RIMM connectors exceeds 32, the computer will not boot.

All RIMM connectors must be populated to achieve continuity for termination at the Rambus interface. Continuity RIMMs ( or "pass-through" modules) must be installed in any unused RIMM connectors.

The following table gives examples of RDRAM component-count for supported RIMM modules. Component counts can be identified on the RIMM label.

Typical RIMM Module Configurations
Rambus Technology 128/144 Mbit
4 RDRAM components per RIMM 64 MB
6 RDRAM components per RIMM 96 MB
8 RDRAM components per RIMM 128 MB
12 RDRAM components per RIMM 192 MB
16 RDRAM components per RIMM 256 MB

Note To obtain the best memory bus loading characteristics, RIMM modules should be installed in Bank 0 first and then in Bank 1 (bank 0 is closest to the processor). A continuity RIMM module must be installed in Bank 1 if unused.


The BIOS automatically selects the memory bus frequency from the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information in the RIMM module. The Intel Desktop Board VC820 platform supports only Serial Presence Detect (SPD) memory. Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information is required to properly configure the Rambus interface. The BIOS configures the Rambus interface to the speed of the slowest RIMM module installed.

The following table describes the memory frequencies supported with standard configurations of the Intel Desktop Board VC820.

Memory Bus Frequency with DRCG (Rambus Clock Generator)
  PC600 PC700 PC800
Host Bus 100 MHz 300 MHz See footnote2 400 MHz
Host Bus 133 MHz 266 MHz 356 MHz 400 MHz

2 The BIOS configures the Rambus interface to a memory bus frequency of 300 MHz for PC700 memory when configured with a host bus speed of 100 MHz. This is equivalent to PC600 performance.

ECC memory detects multiple-bit errors and corrects single-bit errors. When ECC memory is installed, the BIOS will support both ECC and non-ECC mode. The BIOS automatically detects if ECC memory is installed and provides the Setup option for selecting ECC mode. ECC mode must be enabled in the Setup program; the default setting is disabled. If any non-ECC memory is installed, ECC operation is not available.

The following table describes the effect of using Setup to put each memory type in each supported mode.

Memory Error Detection Mode Established in Setup Program

Memory Type ECC Disabled ECC Enabled
Non-ECC RIMM No error detection N/A
ECC RIMM No error detection Single-bit error correction, multiple-bit error detection

Note Whenever ECC mode is selected in Setup, some performance loss may occur.


Installation and use
Last known issues
P18 now available, fixes audio loss after updating to BIOS P17
BIOS version P18 is available which fixes the on-board audio loss after waking from ACPI S3 state. With BIOS P17 installed, the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 loses on-board audio when waking from S3 state.

Audio can be restored by shutting down and restarting the PC. This issue is not seen when waking from S1 state.

Integration guide
This Integration Guide will help you assemble a Performance PC based on the Intel Desktop Board VC820. Integration procedures are covered in order of assembly starting with the most difficult.

Will not power up - continuity RIMM
Both RIMM sockets on the Intel Desktop Board VC820 must be populated with either a RIMM module or a Continuity RIMM. If either RIMM socket is not populated, then the board will not boot.

Will not power up - 66 MHz host bus processor
The Intel Desktop Board VC820 supports a single PentiumŪ III processor or PentiumŪ II processor in the 242-single edge contact slot connector. The Intel Desktop Board VC820 supports either 100 or 133 MHz system bus speeds only. A no boot situation will occur if a processor with a 66 MHz system bus is installed.

AGP support
The Intel Desktop Board VC820 supports new AGP cards, which comply to the AGP specification 2.0 and provides backwards compatibility for cards based on AGP specification 1.0. The Intel Desktop Board VC820 has a universal AGP socket which can accept 1X / 2X cards operating at 3.3 V or 1x / 2X / 4X cards operating at 1.5V.

Ultra ATA/66 Support
The Intel Desktop Board VC820 onboard IDE channels support Ultra ATA/66 transfer mode.

Second floppy drive not supported
The Intel Desktop Board VC820 does not provide support for a second floppy device.

Windows* 95 reports resource conflict with add-in cards & onboard PCI devices in device manager
Windows* 95 reports resource conflict with add-in cards & onboard PCI devices with device manager.

Additional information
Contents
For technical support, contact your place of purchase -- which will have the most current information about your specific product or configuration. For general product information see the IntelŪ Desktop Board site.

Technical FAQ

Marketing FAQ

General Questions:
Memory: Suspend to RAM and Power Supplies: Jumpers/BIOS Setup Options: On-board Audio: Input/Output:

Marketing Questions
General Questions:

Memory: Suspend to RAM and Power Supplies: On-board Audio:
Technical FAQ

General Questions:
  • Which processors does the Intel Desktop Board VC820 support?
    See the Processor Support Table for details.
  • Does the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 support processors in the SECC package?
    Yes. The IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 supports IntelŪ Pentium II processors in the 242-contact slot connector, SECC package with a bus speed of 100 MHz. However, the boxed Intel Desktop Board VC820 ships with a processor retention mechanism that supports the SECC2 package. An alternative processor retention mechanism can be used to support processors in the SECC package.
  • What processor heat sink solution do I need for the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820?
    It is recommended that a heat sink is used that is large enough for sufficient cooling of the processor. Active heat sinks require less room and mass than the passive heat sinks.

    Caution:System cooling requirements vary depending on the particular system configuration, and it is the responsibility of the system designer/integrator to ensure that the Pentium II processor's maximum case temperature (at thermal plate) is not exceeded. For more details on the thermal considerations, refer to the Intel Desktop Board VC820 Technical Product Specification (TPS) and the Intel Desktop Board VC820 Specification Update (DBSU).

  • How do I install and secure a PentiumŪ III processor or PentiumŪ II processor on the Intel Desktop Board VC820?
    The processor connects to the desktop board through the 242-contact slot connector. The Intel Desktop Board VC820 uses a single Retention Mechanism (RM) for securing the Pentium III processor or Pentium II processor into the 242-contact slot connector.

  • What type of AGP cards can I use on the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820?
    The Intel Desktop Board VC820 supports operation of AGP 1.0 and AGP 2.0 cards operating at 1x, 2x and 4x transfer speeds. The Intel Desktop Board VC820 desktop board has a universal connector which accepts AGP cards which are keyed for 1x / 2x or 4x. The universal AGP connector used on the Intel Desktop Board VC820 includes support for AGP 2.0 specification cards using an AGP card retention mechanism.

  • Can I use an AGP card retention mechanism with any AGP card?
    The AGP retention mechanism is made for use with newer AGP cards that meet the AGP 2.0 specification. These newer cards have a special slot at the back of the card, which interlocks with a small plastic stud on the retention mechanism. Cards that don't meet the new AGP 2.0 specification should not be used with the retention mechanism because the small plastic stud may interfere with correct installation and retention of the card.

  • How many expansion slots does the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 contain?
    There are five dedicated PCI slots, an AGP graphics card connector and an Audio Modem Riser (AMR) connector. This configuration allows for a maximum of seven add-in cards to be integrated with this board. All PCI slots support bus-mastering devices.

  • My IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 does not boot, what could be wrong?
    Make sure that the processor has a bus speed of 100 or 133 MHz rather than 66 MHz. A hardware lockout is provided on the Intel Desktop Board VC820 which prevents power-up when a 66 MHz host bus processor is installed.

  • What type of chassis and power supply does the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 use?
    The Intel Desktop Board VC820 is an ATX form factor board. The board requires an ATX 2.01 compliant chassis and power supply. For information on the ATX form factor see the ATX form factor website.

  • What type of battery is used in the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820?
    Standard (3 volt, CR2032) coin cell is used to supply power to the RTC when power is not available from the power supply.

  • How do I disable the onboard features?
    Onboard features can be disabled through the Intel Desktop Board VC820 BIOS Setup utility. Refer to the Intel Desktop Board VC820 TPS (Technical Product Specification) for more details.

  • Why doesn't my IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 system power-up?
    The Intel Desktop Board VC820 requires 3.3 volts from the power supply, as well as specific requirements for power sequencing and limits. A momentary switch should be used for the power on/off switch and the sleep/resume switch. The power supply chosen must meet the ATX 2.01 or later specification. In addition the Intel Desktop Board VC820 requires larger currents of 5 VSB to support the new features of the desktop board. Please refer to the Technical Product Specification and the Desktop Board Specification Updates for more complete information.

  • Why does the Windows* 95 device manager report a resource conflict with my add-in card and onboard PCI devices?
    Windows* 95 device manager reports a conflict with a "IntelŪ 82820 Processor to AGP controller" for AGP cards. For PCI cards and onboard PCI devices the Windows 95 device manager reports a conflict with a "IntelŪ 82801AA PCI Bridge". The "IntelŪ 82820 Processor to AGP controller" and the "IntelŪ 82801AA PCI Bridge" are both components of the IntelŪ 82820 chipset which Windows 95 cannot properly identify. This issue will not affect the functionality of Windows 95, with AGP or PCI devices.

  • After upgrading to BIOS version VC82010A.86A.0032.P12, I press the power button and my system fans turn on but the system does not display video. How do I boot my system?
    After upgrading to the Intel Desktop Board VC820 BIOS version VC82010A.86A.0032.P12 and then removing AC power from the system for 15 seconds (or more), the system will freeze during POST code DD and there will be no video. A workaround for this issue is to press the reset button which will allow the system to reboot without freezing. Users who leave the AC plugged in will not experience the freeze on post code DD. We are already working to fix this in a future BIOS release.

Memory:

  • What is RDRAM* memory?
    Direct Rambus RDRAM* memory uses a new technology that increases processor-to-memory bandwidth up to 1.6 GB/sec.

  • What types of memory modules can I install on the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820?
    The Intel Desktop Board VC820 supports dynamic memory detection for one or two 2.5V, 168-pin (64/128 Mbit Non-ECC or 72/144 Mbit ECC), 400 MHz, 356 MHz, and 300 MHz RDRAM RIMM* modules. The devices are known as PC800, PC700, and PC600 respectively.

    Note: The Intel Desktop Board VC820 BIOS will support only RIMM modules with properly programmed SPD devices.

  • What memory configurations are supported on the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820?
    The Intel Desktop Board VC820 has two RIMM sockets that support RDRAM RIMMs. Memory can be installed in one or two of the RIMM sockets. The Intel Desktop Board VC820 can support minimum system memory configurations of 32 MB and a maximum configuration of 512 MB. The Intel Desktop Board VC820 currently supports RIMM module sizes from 64 MB to 256 MB.

    Note: There can be no empty RIMM connectors. RIMM connectors without a RIMM installed must be populated with Continuity RIMMs. The Continuity RIMMs are used to provide signal paths for the memory modules.

  • I get a repeating beep error code and my IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 system does not boot or show any video. What does this mean?
    Check the Intel Desktop Board VC820 TPS (Technical Product Specification) for a list of beep codes. The beep code may indicate a problem during detection of the RIMM modules. If a RIMM socket is not populated with memory, ensure it is populated with a Continuity RIMM. Check to ensure that system memory is securely installed and that any RIMMs used are on the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 tested-memory list.

  • What kind of problems might occur in an RDRAM memory based system that uses non-compliant RIMMs?
    The most extreme example of memory failure is when the system hangs while booting. This can happen when the system is not able to communicate properly with the memory. In less extreme cases, the memory may generate intermittent errors or random system failures during stress.

Suspend to RAM and Power Supplies:

  • Do I need a special power supply to support Suspend to RAM? How much standby current should my power supply be able to supply in order to support Suspend to RAM?
    The power supply used must provide enough standby current to support the needs of all wake capable devices in the system. For proper system operation, the power supply must provide at least that amount of standby current used by the desktop board devices and all externally connected wake devices. This includes both components on the Intel Desktop Board VC820, non-self powered USB devices and your add-in cards. To calculate this amount, add up the amount of standby current required by the various components which can wake the system from the ACPI S3 (STR) state. For further details on how to determine the necessary stand by current, consult the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 TPS and the Intel Desktop Board VC820 DBSU.

Jumpers/BIOS Setup Options:

  • Why can't I find speed settings in my BIOS configuration mode?
    Newer Intel processors are manufactured and operate at a preset speed. The speed setting for these processors is not changeable and there will be no options to set processor speed in the BIOS setup configuration mode.

  • How should the jumpers be set on my IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820?
    There are two jumper blocks on the Intel Desktop Board VC820. One jumper block (reference J7B1) is used to access the BIOS setup configuration mode. Configuration mode allows access to the Maintenance menu in addition to the standard setup menus. All BIOS configuration options are made available through the BIOS configuration screens. The other jumper block (reference J4A2) is used to provide user control over system wake events from the ACPI S5 state.

    If the jumper J4A2 is set to connect pins 1-2 (default), the system resumes from an S5 state when a PME# or Wake on LAN* technology event is asserted. If the jumper is set to connect pins 2-3, the system will no longer resume from these events from an S5 state. This feature is useful if, for example, the user does not wish their dial-up modem to wake their previously powered-off computer whenever the telephone rings. The jumper setting does not affect S3 resume events. Refer to the Quick Start Guide, Technical Product Specification or Product Guide for information on configuration jumper settings.

On-board Audio:

  • How can the onboard audio be disabled?
    The onboard audio can be disabled using the BIOS Setup Utility. Select the Advanced menu, then the Peripheral Configuration screen. The menu offers options to enable or disable the audio if it is present on the Intel Desktop Board VC820. Refer to the Intel Desktop Board VC820 TPS and DBSU for more details.

  • Is the Creative Labs* SoundBlaster* audio PCI 128 audio solution full duplex?
    Creative Labs SoundBlaster* audio PCI 128 audio solution is capable of playing and recording at different sample rates simultaneously. The solution also meets PC97 and PC98 requirements to support videophone operation.

  • Is the Creative Labs SoundBlaster audio PCI 128 audio solution SoundBlaster and SoundBlaster Pro compatible?
    Yes. Functionally, Creative Labs SoundBlaster audio PCI 128 traps accesses the SoundBlaster registers and issues appropriate IRQ or SERR commands on the PCI bus. The DMA functionality is handled in a similar fashion.

  • Does this audio solution have a hardware wave table? Wave-table add-on? Software wave-table driver available in standard-driver package?
    Creative Labs SoundBlaster audio PCI 128 audio solution includes a 128-voice polyphony software wave-table audio solution in the driver package, so a hardware wave-table add-on is not required. The software wave-table is compatible with the Aureal* API for 3D Positional audio. More than 4,000 sounds are stored in main memory. User selectable wavetable comes in sizes of 2, 4 or 8 megabytes.

  • How many channels or MIDI voices does this solution have?
    The Creative Labs SoundBlaster audio PCI 128 audio solution provides a 128-voice polyphony wave-table audio solution.

  • What operating systems are audio drivers available for? Are drivers available for OS/2*?
    Drivers are available on the Intel Desktop Board VC820 Web site for the Creative Labs SoundBlaster audio PCI 128 audio solution to support Windows NT* 4.0, Windows* 95 and Windows 98. The MS-DOS* drivers will be installed as part of the Windows 9x drivers to enable legacy MS-DOS applications ran under Windows 9x. At this time, Intel has no plans to make audio drivers available for other operating systems.

Input/Output:

  • Does the Intel Desktop Board VC820 support Ultra ATA/66 hard drives?
    Yes. One of the new features of the Intel 820 chipset is its ability to support both Ultra ATA transfer rates of 33 MB/sec and 66 MB/sec. To realize a true throughput performance difference, a hard drive may need to implement higher spindle speeds, such as 7200 RPM, and a large onboard buffer size, such as 2 MB, to take advantage of the increased bandwidth available on the IDE channel.

  • Does the IDE cable provided with the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 support both Ultra ATA/66 and previous IDE transfer protocols?
    The 40-pin, 80-conductor cable provided with the Intel Desktop Board VC820 is fully backward compatible with all IDE transfer protocols. It will also support Ultra ATA/66 if used with one or two Ultra ATA/66 drives attached. If integrating a system with a combination of Ultra ATA/66 drives and IDE drives using previous transfer protocol, it is recommended that the Ultra ATA/66 drives be attached to the primary IDE channel using the provided cable. The other drives should be attached to the secondary channel using a good quality, 40-connector IDE cable (not provided with the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820).

  • Can I mix Ultra ATA devices with other devices on the same IDE channel?
    Yes. However, for better performance we recommend the Ultra ATA capable devices be attached to their own IDE channel, separate from other non-Ultra ATA capable drives.

  • Why doesn't my CD-ROM or second IDE hard drive work with Windows* 95?
    Two known issues involve CD-ROM or secondary hard drives: 1) Older versions of Windows 95 or Windows 98 may not correctly recognize the IntelŪ 82801AA ICH IDE controller used on Intel desktop boards, causing the BIOS to disable the secondary IDE channel. This can result in IDE devices, such as CD-ROM drives, not being detected or disappearing after the system is rebooted. A utility is available to update the MSHDC.INF file and resolve the issue. As a temporary work-around, the CD-ROM can be installed on the primary IDE channel until the INF update utility has been run. 2) Windows 95 or Windows 98 may fail to recognize a CD-ROM drive that does not comply with the ATAPI specification.

  • Why isn't my IDE device displayed during power-up POST?
    All IDE devices must be ATA4 compliant. Cable length is limited to 18 inches. IDE devices not selected as auto-detect in the BIOS setup are not displayed as part of the POST tests.

  • Can I use a second floppy on my Intel Desktop Board VC820?
    The IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 does not provide support for a second floppy device.

Marketing FAQ

General Questions:

  • What new features are incorporated into the IntelŪ 820 chipset?
    The IntelŪ 820 chipset features support for 133 MHz host bus speed and AGP 4x graphics cards. In addition, the Intel 820 chipset supports Ultra ATA/66 hard drives, the ACPI S3 State of Suspend-to-RAM (STR), as well as the faster I/O hub architecture.

  • Besides the 820 chipset features mentioned above, what key new features are included on the Intel Desktop Board VC820?
    The IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 includes support for Audio Modem Riser (AMR) cards, includes color coded back panel connectors to both make system connections more intuitive and to help integrators meet PC99 specs, and also provides diagnostic LEDs on the I/O back panel to help debug "no boot" problems.

  • Why do the drivers on Intel's public web site appear to match revisions of the drivers available on some vendor public web sites?
    Intel performs internal testing on all drivers before posting them on the Intel developer desktop board web site. In many cases, it is not practical to test all drivers on all desktop boards. For this reason, application vendors may release drivers that have not been tested by Intel. These drivers may be available on the vendor public site, but not on the Intel public site. This does not mean the drivers do not work; it simply indicates that Intel has not validated the drivers. In some case the drivers, on a non-Intel site, correct implementation issues that are not found on the Intel desktop board.

Memory:

  • Does Intel qualify memory for use on IntelŪ desktop boards?
    No. OEMs and system integrators are solely responsible for qualifying the memory that they include in their systems. Intel will perform only limited testing of a few memory modules to verify functionality of the desktop board design. Intel does offer a program for third parties to self-test their own memory and to report passing results to Intel for inclusion on our Internet based tested memory list. This list of memory vendors is available at the IntelŪ Desktop Board VC820 System Memory web page.

Suspend to RAM and Power Supplies:

  • What is Suspend-to-RAM?
    Suspend to RAM (STR) is a technology that is closely associated with the S3 state of the ACPI specification. STR allows a properly configured system to go into a low power state while saving information to main memory about the system's configuration, open applications, and active files. While in the low power (STR) state, memory remains powered to retain the system information while most other components turn off to conserve energy. Fans are turned off to provide silent operation and to minimize power consumption. Properly configured systems in STR typically can use less than 5 watts.

    The system can be left in the STR State and can be awakened periodically to perform preprogrammed events such as downloading e-mail or searching and filtering web content. A network access or an incoming phone call can also wake the PC and trigger a desired response, similar to a telephone answering machine. When an incoming request arrives via a "wake device" or the user wishes to resume operation, the PC comes alive in a few seconds by using the information saved in memory to restore the system.

    Note:If power is interrupted while the system is in STR the system will reboot normally when power is restored. All data that has not been stored prior to STR will be lost.

  • What is a "wake device"?
    Any device, which is capable of waking the system from the STR State is a wake device. A wake device is typically a network card or a fax/modem that is compliant with the PCI 2.2 specification. When the system is powered down into the STR State, these wake devices are provided standby current by the power supply. These devices are in a low power state during STR, and use only enough current to recognize incoming activity (e.g. a network request or a phone call). When an incoming activity is detected, these devices can wake the system.

On-board Audio:

  • What is AC97 and what does it do?
    The AC97 (Audio Codec 1997) specification defines a high-quality audio architecture that advances the migration to digital audio, while maintaining support for analog interconnects for backward compatibility.


ĐIntel Corporation