Intel(R) Corporation

Intel® Desktop Board KU440EX

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+ Software and drivers
Bios and drivers

+ Product Documentation
icon Technical Product Specification
icon Specification Update

+ Compatibility
+Supported processors

The Intel® KU440EX Motherboard supports Intel® Celeron® processors, as well as Pentium II processors with a front side bus speed of 66 MHz.

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

Processor Family Internal Processor
Speed Supported
Notes
Pentium® II processors 333 MHz
300 MHz
266 MHz
233 MHz
 
Intel® Celeron® processors 433 MHz Requires BIOS P09 or later
400 MHz
366 MHz
333 MHz
300A MHz
Requires BIOS P05 or later
300 MHz
266 MHz
 
Pentium® III processors Not supported See Note


Note: The Pentium III processor is not supported on this motherboard and attempting to use it may result in damage to the processor and/or motherboard.

+System memory

Contents

System Memory Combinations
The motherboard has two dual inline memory module (DIMM) sockets. Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) can be installed in one or both sockets. In addition, the motherboard supports both serial presence detect (SPD) and non-SPD memory.

Using the SPD data structure, programmed into an E2PROM on the DIMM, the BIOS can determine the SDRAM's size and speed. Using non-SPD memory, the BIOS will dynamically determine SDRAM size and speed. Minimum memory size is 8 MB; maximum memory size is 256 MB. Memory size and speed can vary between sockets.

The motherboard supports the following memory features:
  • 168-pin DIMMs with gold-plated contacts
  • 66 MHz unbuffered SDRAM
  • Non-ECC (64-bit) memory
  • 3.3 V memory only
  • Single- or double-sided DIMMs in the following sizes:
DIMM Size Non-ECC Configuration
8 MB 1M x 64
16 MB 2M x 64
32 MB 4M x 64
64 MB 8M x 64
128 MB 16M x 64


Note: All memory components and DIMMs used with the Intel® KU440EX motherboard must comply with the PC Unbuffered DIMM Specification.

DIMM Vendors - Web Sites
The list below contains vendors that have tested their memory for Intel KU440EX Motherboards, and that have their products listed on their own Web site. Please visit their sites to obtain information on their products.

Note: The following links will take you off of the Intel web site. Intel does not control the content of these linked web sites.
DIMM Vendors - SDRAM Non-ECC DIMMs
The following tables list DIMMs that have been tested. DIMMs that are not listed should also function properly as long as their specifications are compatible with the devices listed below. In general, DIMM devices that are faster than those specified for a given platform will work, although no extra performance will be realized.

Vendor Test Vendor Part Number
1M x 64 (8 MB), Unbuffered SDRAM,
Non-ECC - 66 MHz

None at this time.
   
2M x 64 (16 MB), Unbuffered SDRAM,
Non-ECC - 66 MHz

None at this time.
   
4M x 64 (32 MB), Unbuffered SDRAM,
Non-ECC - 66 MHz

Micron
FULL MT4LSDT464AG-662B2
8M x 64 (64 MB), Unbuffered SDRAM,
Non-ECC - 66 MHz

NEC
FULL MC458CB645FAA10
16M x 64 (128 MB), Unbuffered SDRAM,
Non-ECC - 66 MHz

None at this time.
52  


DIMM Vendors - SDRAM ECC DIMMs
The following tables list DIMMs that have been tested. DIMMs that are not listed should also function properly as long as their specifications are compatible with the devices listed below. In general, DIMM devices that are faster than those specified for a given platform will work, although no extra performance will be realized.

Vendor Test Vendor Part Number
16M x 72 (128 MB), Unbuffered SDRAM,
ECC - 66 MHz

Samsung
FULL KMM374S1623BTL-G0


Updated: Wednesday, February 16, 2000

+ Installation and use
+Last known issues

Latest BIOS and Drivers
The BIOS identifier for this motherboard is 4K4UE0X0.86A. Check here for the current BIOS version and here for the current drivers.

Note: While installing the Crystal ISA Audio Drivers version 4.05.2700 for Windows* 95, an incorrect prompt asks for 'Crystal SoundFusion* Driver Disk 2'. There is only one disk and you should select that disk as the source when asked for disk 2. This issue was corrected in the current release of the drivers.


Intel® Celeron® and Pentium II processors supported
The Intel® KU440EX Motherboard supports Intel Celeron processors, as well as some Pentium II processors. See the information on processors supported.


Processor Considerations
The processor connects to the motherboard through the 242-pin Slot 1 processor connector. Intel Celeron processors are secured into the connector using a Single Edge Processor Package (SEPP) Retention Mechanism (RM), while Pentium II processors are secured using a Single Edge Contact Cartridge (SECC) Retention Mechanism (RM).

It is recommended that an active (fan) heatsink be used with the processor for proper cooling. It is the responsibility of the system integrator to ensure the processor's thermal considerations, noted in the Intel KU440EX Motherboard Technical Product Specification, are met.


Second Floppy not Supported
The Intel KU440EX Motherboard uses an SMC 37C707 Super I/O component to support the floppy drive. The SMC component supports only a single floppy device.


Configuration Jumper & Options
A single jumper enables the Intel KU440EX Motherboard's configuration mode. All options are then available through the BIOS setup screens, which are documented in the Technical Product Specification. These options include a means to disable the on-board audio. There are no special jumpers for configuring the processor speed or bus frequency. Set the processor speed in the BIOS Setup program using Configure mode.


System Memory
The Intel KU440EX Motherboard supports only non-ECC SDRAM DIMMs (the board does not support ECC). Both serial presence detect (SPD) and non-SPD data structures are supported. Using SPD, the BIOS can determine the SDRAM's size and speed. Using non-SPD, the BIOS will dynamically determine SDRAM size.

The Intel KU440EX Motherboard does not support EDO memory. A list of tested memory DIMMs is available. Use only DIMMs with gold-plated contacts.


Will my ATA-66 Hard Drive Work on the Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
The IDE controller integrated into the Intel KU440EX Motherboard supports Ultra DMA modes 0,1 and 2. Ultra DMA mode 2, also known as ATA-33 or Ultra DMA 33, is the highest speed transfer mode supported by the Intel KU440EX Motherboard. The motherboard hardware cannot support the maximum transfer rate of the ATA-66 drives. A drive that complies with the ATA-66 specification will run timings up to Ultra ATA-33 on the Intel KU440EX Motherboard. Please refer to the Technical Product Specification and the Motherboard Specification Update for more complete details on the various transfer modes.



+Additional information
023584.htm">End of Interactive Support Announcement for details.



For technical support, contact your place of purchase, which will have the most current information about your specific product or configuration. You also can check this list of frequently asked questions:

Motherboard FAQ's
NLX Form Factor FAQ's


Motherboard FAQ's

NLX Form Factor FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions: Intel KU440EX Motherboard

    What processors are supported on the Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    The motherboard currently supports Intel Celeron processors 433 MHz, 400 MHz, 366 MHz, 333 MHz, 300A MHz, 300 MHz and 266 MHz. Pentium II processors with a front side bus speed of 66MHz and processor speeds of 333 MHz, 300 MHz, 266 MHz, and 233 MHz with 512KB L2 cache are also supported. The KU440EX uses the 242-contact slot connector.

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

    Does the Intel KU440EX Motherboard support the Intel Celeron processors 433 MHz, 400 MHz, 366 MHz, 333 MHz and 300A MHz?
    The Intel KU440EX Motherboard with BIOS version 4K4UE0X0.86A.0016.P09, and future revisions, supports the 433 MHz Intel Celeron processor. The Intel KU440EX Motherboard with BIOS version 4K4UE0X0.86A.0012.P05, and later revisions, supports the Intel Celeron processors 400 MHz, 366 MHz, 333 MHz and 300A MHz.

    Does the Intel KU440EX Motherboard support MMX™ technology?
    Yes. The Intel KU440EX Motherboard is designed for the Intel Celeron processor and Pentium II processors, which are MMX™ technology processors.

    Why can't I find speed settings in my BIOS configuration mode?
    The processor speed option previously available in configuration mode is not displayed with newer Intel® processors and will not effect the processor speed. Newer Intel® processors boot with the ratio preset and tested during manufacturing. The fixed pre-selected ratios are reflected in the EBL_CR_POWERON register.

    How many PCI master devices are supported on the riser for the Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    The KU440EX supports a total of 4 PCI master loads. One of these loads is used by the Intel® 82371EB PCI/ISA IDE Xccelerator (PIIX4E) bridge chip. The optional LAN subsystem will also constitute a PCI master if the option is present. For the Intel KU440EX Motherboard without optional LAN subsystem, there is support for 3 PCI masters on the riser. If the Intel KU440EX Motherboard has the optional LAN subsystem, there is support for 2 PCI masters on the riser.

    How do I install and secure an Intel Celeron processor on the Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    The processor connects to the motherboard through the 242-contact slot connector. The Intel KU440EX Motherboard uses a Single Edge Processor Package (SEPP) Retention Mechanism (RM) for securing the Intel Celeron processor into the 242-contact slot connector.

    How do I install and secure a Pentium II processor on the Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    The processor connects to the motherboard through the 242-contact slot connector. The Intel KU440EX Motherboard uses a Single Edge Contact Cartridge (SECC) Retention Mechanism (RM) for securing the Pentium II processor into the 242-contact slot connector.

    What processor heat sink solution do I need for the Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    It is recommended that an active (fan) heatsink be used with the processor for proper cooling.

    Caution: System cooling requirements vary depending on the particular system configuration. It is the responsibility of the system designer/integrator to ensure that the Pentium II and Intel Celeron processor's maximum case temperature (at thermal plate) is not exceeded. For more details on the thermal considerations, refer to the KU440EX Technical Product Specification.

    How do I remove the bottom passive heatsink support from the Intel KU440EX Motherboard without damaging it or the motherboard?
    After removing the oval headed plastic pins, the support is gently rocked back and forth until it comes off the board. A special tool (part number 58982-01) is available through Dexter Design in the United States (503) 648-7000 that will facilitate the safe removal.

    Why does the Crystal audio driver installation in Windows 95 ask for disk 2?
    While installing Crystal ISA Audio Drivers ver. 4.05.2700 for Windows 95, you may be prompted for 'Crystal SoundFusion(TM) Driver Disk 2'. This prompt is incorrect, there is only one disk for the Windows 95 audio drivers. If directed to insert a second disk, use the single diskette then direct it to the floppy drive. This prompt will be corrected in a future version of the audio drivers.

    How should the jumpers be set on my Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    Unlike some previous Intel® motherboards, the KU440EX supports a single header (JC61) that selects the configuration mode for the BIOS Setup program. Most configuration options are contained in the normal mode of the BIOS Setup program. Configuration mode allows the processor speed and security passwords to be changed. This allows all motherboard configuration to be handled in software via the BIOS Setup program. There are three functions that can be selected by this jumper:

    Function Jumper J6C1 Configuration
    Normal 1-2 The BIOS uses current configuration information and passwords for booting.
    Configure 2-3 After the POST runs, BIOS Setup runs automatically. The maintenance menu is displayed.
    Recovery none (jumper removed) The BIOS attempts to recover the BIOS from a floppy disk. A recovery diskette is required.

    Note: There are no special jumpers for configuring the processor speed or bus frequency. Set the processor speed in the BIOS Setup program using Configure mode.

    Caution: The jumper settings should never be changed while the system is powered on. Always turn off the computer before changing the jumper.

    What kind of memory does the KU440EX support?
    The KU440EX supports only SDRAM DIMMs. Both serial presence detect (SPD) and non-SPD data structures are supported. Using SPD, the BIOS can determine the SDRAM's size and speed. Using non-SPD, the BIOS will dynamically determine SDRAM size. The following memory features are supported:

    • 168-pin DIMMs with gold-plated contacts

    • Non-ECC (64-Bit) DIMMs only

    • Unbuffered 100-MHz or 66-MHz SDRAM DIMMs

    • 3.3V memory only

    • Single or double-sided DIMMs

    The Intel KU440EX Motherboard only supports Synchronous non-ECC DRAM (SDRAM) DIMMs. SDRAM DIMMs should conform to PC SDRAM Unbuffered DIMM Specification. The Intel KU440EX Motherboard does not support EDO memory. A list of tested memory DIMMs is available. Though 100-MHz DIMMs may function, they will only operate at 66-MHz and not 100-MHz.

    Should I use DIMMs with tin- or gold-plated contacts on the Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    Only gold-plated DIMMs should be used with the Intel KU440EX Motherboard. Do NOT use DIMMs with tin-plated contacts with this board.

    What does the new 82440EX AGPset support?
    The 82440EX AGPset supports the Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) which streamlines the flow of data between the processor, graphics accelerator and system memory. The 440EX AGPset also implements Advanced Configuration Power Management Interface (ACPI) hardware for enhanced power management and fast resume from powered-down states; Ultra DMA/33 capability which doubles bandwidth to all IDE devices including hard disk drives and CD-ROMS; and SDRAM support for increased memory bandwidth and improved overall system performance.

    How does the 82440EX AGPset compare to the 440LX?
    The Intel® 82440EX AGPset is based on the same core architecture as the 440LX AGPset and offers the same functionality as the 440LX AGPset with the following exceptions tailored to affordable basic PC applications:

    • Support for 2 DIMM sockets

    • 3 PCI loads (4 masters including PIIX4e)

    • Uni-processing

    • Non-Error Checking and Correcting (ECC) (64-bit) main memory support

    What is the Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)?
    AGP is a dedicated graphics bus with higher bandwidth that allows texturing from main memory. By providing high-bandwidth access to memory, AGP enables a new level of sophisticated graphics allowing software developers to create richer, more inviting 3D environments with higher resolutions than ever before.

    What benefits can I expect from the integrated 1x AGP controller on my Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    Some key benefits of AGP are:

    • For the home user, AGP supports improved texture rendering in 3D software, including games, entertainment, educational and digital imaging applications.

    • Business users will see smooth performance in 3D applications from CAD programs to sophisticated data visualization and web authoring tools.

    • Higher performance 1x (66MHz) vs.. 33MHz PCI bus.

    • AGP graphics results in substantial benefits when compared to alternative PCI solutions. A 1x AGP controller enables an effective transfer rate between the host controller and the graphic chip of 264 MB/s where PCI's maximum is 132 MB/s.

    • Pipelining enables multiple data requests at a time.

    Can I use a second floppy on my Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    No. The KU440EX uses a SMC 37C707 Super I/O component for the floppy support. The SMC component supports a single floppy device.

    Does the Intel KU440EX Motherboard have USB legacy support?
    Yes.

    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 will offer options to enable or disable the audio if it is present on the motherboard. Refer the Technical Product Specification) for other setup options.

    Does the Intel KU440EX Motherboard support IEEE 1394?
    No. Support for IEEE 1394 is not available on the Intel KU440EX Motherboard.

    What is hardware monitoring?
    KU440EX has a component on the motherboard that monitors the temperature, fans and voltages in the system. System readings and alerts are available to management software, if present, such as the LANDesk* Client Manager.

    What is in a "boxed" Pentium II processor? The boxed Pentium processor includes a Pentium II processor with an active fan heatsink attached. It also includes a fan cable and the fan heatsink supports that are used to mount the processor to the motherboard.

    What is Ultra DMA/33?
    Ultra DMA/33 is a faster hard drive protocol that improves disk I/O throughput to up to 33MB/second. Both edges of the IDE strobe are read to obtain double the speed across the cable.

    Do I need a special hard drive to take advantage of Ultra DMA/33?
    Yes. The AGPset will still function with mode 3 and mode 4 disks, but to take advantage of Ultra DMA/33 you will need to request an Ultra DMA/33 drive from your hard drive vendor.

    Why doesn't my CD-ROM or second IDE hard drive work with Windows 95?
    There are two known issues involving CD-ROM or secondary hard drives: Microsoft Windows 95 may not recognize the Intel® 82371EB PIIX4E IDE controller used on Intel® motherboards, causing the secondary IDE channel to be disabled. 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. Windows 95 also may fail to recognize a CD-ROM drive that does not comply with the ATAPI specification.


    NLX FAQ's

    What is required to power-up my Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    The power supply chosen must meet the NLX 1.2 specification. By clicking on this link, you will be leaving the Intel Web site. A momentary switch should be used for the power on/off switch and the sleep/resume switch. An NLX compliant riser card, and the correct memory and processor are also required. Please refer to the Technical Product Specification for more details.

    Will Intel sell riser cards to go with NLX motherboards?
    Intel does not supply NLX risers. Riser cards are chassis-dependent. The customer will need to source their own chassis and riser card. A list of NLX vendors is available on the NLX web site.

    Where can I purchase an NLX compliant riser?
    A current list of suppliers is available on the NLX Web Site, and is updated regularly. By clicking on this link, you will be leaving the Intel Web site. Keep in mind that the riser must be able to fit in the selected chassis, which in many cases already has a riser built specifically for that chassis. It is the intent of chassis vendors to supply the riser that fits with their chassis and offer several design choices.

    Do I need a special power supply for the Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    The Intel KU440EX Motherboard requires a 3.3 volt power supply that complies with the NLX 1.2 specification. See the NLX Power Supply Recommendation V1.1.

    If I am an OEM, how do I start designing an NLX chassis, riser card, etc.?
    Begin by downloading the NLX 1.2 specification from the NLX Web site. The specification details the minimum requirements for NLX compliance. Next, download any of the NLX Design Guides. The Design Guides provide insights and examples on design approaches to chassis, thermal, electrical and other system requirements. Finally, refer to the list of many vendors supplying NLX components. Their addresses, phone numbers and email addresses are available for your use.

    How many I/O slots do Intel KU440EX Motherboards have?
    With NLX, I/O slots are located on the riser not on the motherboard. Therefore, the Intel KU440EX Motherboard has no I/O slots on board. Slots for ISA/PCI are a function of the riser card design. For a list of vendors, please refer to the NLX Web site.

    Why isn't there a power connector on my Intel KU440EX Motherboard?
    With the NLX form factor, the power connector has been moved off the motherboard and onto the riser. This allows the easy removal of the "dockable" motherboard from the chassis. In fact, all power and data cables have been moved to the riser. Thus, an NLX 1.2 compliant riser is necessary to power the motherboard.