So I downloaded the manual for my motherboard, to get a head start on reading it before it is delivered, and I have to say the section on the BIOS frightend me. As I am new to this, do I really have to manually adjust every setting in the BIOS, or is it pre-set, and I only have to adjust as I want. I only ask because there was a lot I didn't understand, and while I want to learn it all, I was hoping to have it up and running as I learned. I ordered the ASUS A8N-SLI Premium Socket 939 NVIDIA nForce4 SLI ATX AMD Motherboard.
Hi Although not experienced with AMD systems, I think most users will probably think you made a good choice with your board. As for the BIOS. From what I gather and from my own experience (with an Intel board though) you can pretty much get your system running without touching the BIOS. However, some boards are shipped with default settings which might not necessaraly utilise the most that your board can offer. For example my board was pre-set to have my RAM working at a lesser speed than it can actualy run in. Also, with my boards pre-settings my processor was working below it's suggested speed. My suggestion to you would be what I have done - first it is a brilliant idea to get yourself familiar with the board before you get it. It will feel like you already know it by the time you get it. Second, start your system without touching the BIOS. Once the system is running OK. boot into BIOS and have a wonder around. Make yourself comfortable but do not make any changes. Then check certain settings. Something light-weight like the NUM-LOCK setings. I felt a great sense of acheivment when I done that for the first time..... I know I sound like a therapist.... hah: But if you feel a bit intimidated its best to take things easy and make sure you know what you are doing or about to do. Being a modern board this board will probably have a protection of sort which will prevent your system from booting if the settings pose a danger to the system. So even if you messed up, most chances are you will be able to reset and start again. What ever you do, if you are making changes, do them gradualy... easy does it.... The forum will always be happy to assist!
