February 3, 2000
`
`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
`Recommendations for An AMD Athlon™ Processor-Based Computer
`
`Power Supplies and Computer Cases
`
`ONLY AMD RECOMMENDED POWER SUPPLIES SHOULD BE USED. FAIL-
`URE TO USE A RECOMMENDED POWER SUPPLY MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE
`TO YOUR MOTHERBOARD.
`
`For the most current information on power supplies and cases for your
`AMD Athlon processor-based system, be sure to refer to the configuration infor-
`mation page at the following URL:
`
`www1.amd.com/athlon/config
`
`Q. What size power supply will I need with my AMD Athlon processor?
`
`A. For a minimally configured low power-consumption system, you can use any of the
`approved power supplies listed on our website. A 250-watt power supply is the
`minimum but you need to estimate the system configuration requirements to
`ensure system stability. Minimally configured means: 128-Mbyte RAM, 16-Mbyte
`AGP graphics, internal V.90 modem, 10/100 NIC, floppy drive, CD-ROM or DVD,
`and 5400-RPM hard disk.
`
`If you are not certain of the final user-configuration, it is safer to install one of the
`approved 300-watt (or larger) power supplies listed on the recommended power
`supply listing. If the Athlon processor-based system will have more power-
`consuming accessories than the basic minimum, we recommend you build your
`system using 300-watt (or larger) power supplies. By using a larger power supply,
`the system is also robust enough to handle future enhancements.
`
`For the latest recommended power supply list, you must consult our web site at:
`
`www1.amd.com/athlon/config
`
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`CSCO-1037
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`

`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`February 3, 2000
`
`Q. What do I need to consider when acquiring a computer case for my AMD Athlon
`processor and recommended ATX motherboard?
`
`A. You should consider the number of devices you plan to use before making your
`computer case purchase. The size of the tower case can have a direct impact on
`heat and cooling issues, and can limit the number of devices you can use. For an
`approved computer case list, you must consult our web site at:
`
`www1.amd.com/athlon/config
`
`When acquiring a computer case, make sure it has the following features:
`n Designed for an ATX power supply and motherboard
`n Has room for an additional rear cooling fan in the area of the processor
`n Has the proper number of standoff posts for mounting your motherboard cor-
`rectly and that they are aligned properly as well
`n Has easy side access that doesn’t require removing all of the cables first
`n Has good air ventilation for proper air circulation in the case
`
`Note: The AMD Athlon processor was not optimized to run in a desktop case. You
`should use an approved mid-tower, full tower, or server case only.
`Memory
`For the most current information on memory for your AMD Athlon processor-
`based system, be sure to refer to the configuration information page at the follow-
`ing URL:
`
`www1.amd.com/athlon/config
`
`Q. Can buffered memory be used with my AMD Athlon processor?
`
`A. No. Use unbuffered memory only.
`
`Q. I already have EDO memory or 66-MHz DIMM memory. Do I have to use PC-100-
`MHz DIMM memory to run my AMD Athlon processor?
`
`A. YES. The AMD Athlon processor does not run on EDO memory or 66-MHz DIMM
`memory. The AMD Athlon processor requires, at a minimum, PC-100-MHz memory.
`Table 1 outlines the PC-100 memory requirements.
`
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`

`

`February 3, 2000
`
`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`Table 1.
`
`AMD Athlon™ Processor PC-100 Memory Requirements (PC-100 Rev 1.0 minimum)
`
`Description
`
`Unbuffered
`
`Speed of PC-100 memory chip
`
`CAS/Latency of either 2 or 3
`Error Correction Controlled (ECC)
`6 ply (thickness)
`Lifetime warranty
`All of the above confirmed (written) on
`the invoice
`
`Mandatory
`YES
`8 ns
`(or faster)
`3
`
`YES
`
`Preferred
`
`2
`YES
`YES
`YES
`
`Q. Can I mix different brands of memory in my computer?
`
`A. It is not advisable because some brands of memory are incompatible with other
`brands regardless of whether the speed is the same or not. We recommend that you
`use only one brand of memory in your computer system.
`
`Q. Can I mix different nanosecond speeds of my memory modules?
`
`A. Yes, but it is not advisable because the system will only use the memory speed of
`the slowest memory chip. In other words, if you had two 32-Mbyte 7 ns memory
`chips and one 32-Mbyte 8 ns chip, the system memory will operate at 8 ns. We
`recommend you acquire memory modules of the same speed for consistent
`performance.
`
`Q. What is the minimum amount of memory I should use with my AMD Athlon
`processor?
`
`A. We recommend a minimum of 64 Mbytes of PC-100 memory to operate current
`software satisfactorily, but it is strongly recommended that you have 96 Mbytes to
`128 Mbytes (or more) in order to enjoy all of the benefits that the AMD Athlon
`processor has to offer you.
`
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`

`

`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`February 3, 2000
`
`Q. Can I use generic or no-name brands of PC-100 memory with my AMD Athlon
`processor?
`
`A. We recommend that you do not use generic or no-name memory modules because
`you really don’t know what you’re getting or what type of quality control your
`memory chip was subjected to. There is no way to tell compatibility of one generic
`or no-name memory module with another module. We strongly recommend you
`purchase and use well-known and approved memory modules for the following
`reasons:
`n Uniformity and consistency of the memory module
`n Compatibility issues
`n Warranty and technical support
`n Verified specifications
`
`Heat and Cooling Issues
`
`Q. Are there any special requirements for keeping my AMD Athlon processor cool?
`
`A. Yes. As with any modern processor, as well as current peripherals and components,
`heat is always a problem to contend with. New hard drives and devices generate a
`substantial amount of heat, so you should never operate your AMD Athlon
`processor without an approved processor heatsink and fan.
`
`In addition to the processor cooling fan, make sure you have a least one fan (not
`including the power supply fan) in your case that will reduce the temperature. We
`recommend that the fan be in the back of the case, drawing air over the processor,
`and exhausting the air out the back of the case.
`
`Many mid-tower cases allow at least one fan in the bottom-front. Since the power
`supply fan exhausts air out of the case, the additional fan in the bottom-front must
`draw air in.
`
`Muffin fans (case fans) are very inexpensive and easy to install. Just be sure to
`mount the fan in the proper direction based upon the airflow arrow that you will
`find on the outer fan housing.
`
`If you can install more than one fan, it is recommended that you have at least the
`same number of exhaust fans as draw fans. For example, in a full-tower case you
`can install two draw fans in the bottom-front and have two or three exhaust fans
`(including the power supply fan) in the top-back of the computer case. This
`arrangement provides excellent airflow throughout the case and reduces heat
`build-up. Be careful not to block the intake or exhaust of your fans.
`
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`

`February 3, 2000
`
`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`Installation of Your Motherboard
`
`Q. Are there any special requirements for installing my approved ATX motherboard?
`
`n
`
`A. No. There are no special requirements for installing your ATX motherboard, but
`the following recommendations will help enable proper installation:
`n Perform a dry-run installation of the motherboard into the case without the
`AMD Athlon processor or memory installed. Get familiar with how each com-
`ponent positions itself and where the standoffs will fit.
`If possible, install the processor module in the motherboard before installing
`the motherboard in the PC case. Place the motherboard on a softer surface like
`foam from the box or cardboard during this process. This is not possible with
`some cases where you cannot install the motherboard with the processor mod-
`ule on it due to power supply clearance or other problems.
`n Do not plug the power supply into a wall outlet until all the components have
`been installed and cables are attached. This is because there is power in the
`system as soon as it is plugged into the wall, even when the power switch is
`turned off.
`If there is not a heatsink support on the motherboard, install the heatsink sup-
`port that is supplied with the AMD Athlon Processor-in-a-Box.
`n Do not install the motherboard in the case with memory installed. You may
`damage the components when installing the standoff screws.
`n Use as many of the mounting postholes in your motherboard as possible. If you
`cannot use all the mounting holes in the motherboard, place non-metal spacers
`between the bottom of the motherboard and the case (of the same size as a
`standoff) to take up the slack.
`n Do not over-tighten the metal standoffs into the computer case.
`n Do not over-tighten the metal screws that fit into the metal standoffs.
`n Do not use screws for the metal standoffs that are the same size or larger than
`the solder ring around the mounting hole in the motherboard. (This could lead
`to damaging or shorting out of your motherboard.)
`
`n
`
`Using UDMA/66 (ATA-66) or UDMA/33 (ATA-33) Devices
`
`Q. Can the AMD Athlon processor-based systems be used with UDMA/66 (ATA-66)
`devices (i.e. hard drives)?
`
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`

`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`February 3, 2000
`
`A. Yes. The UDMA/66 capability of your motherboard is contingent on three factors:
`n Your motherboard supports UDMA/66
`n You are using a UDMA/66 device
`n You have the newer UDMA/66 cable
`
`If the wrong cable is used, you will experience corrupted installations and loading
`of programs, system lockups, and various other types of failures.
`
`If you are using UDMA/33 (ATA-33) devices, your motherboard will automatically
`default to UDMA/33 (as long as the motherboard supports UDMA/33 as well).
`
`Installing the AMD Athlon™ Processor on the Motherboard
`
`Q. Is there any special way to install the AMD Athlon processor on my motherboard?
`
`A. Yes. Refer to the AMD Athlon Processor Installation Guide that comes with your
`AMD Athlon Processor-in-a-Box product.
`
`Installing IDE and Diskette Drive Cables
`
`Q. How do I install my IDE and floppy drive cables on my motherboard?
`
`A. Most cables supplied by motherboard manufacturers have a tooth or key in the
`center of the end of the cable connector that matches up against the notch cutout
`on the connector end of the device you’re hooking the cable connector up to (i.e.
`hard drive, CD-ROM, etc).
`
`If there is no key on your IDE or diskette drive cable, use the red stripe located on
`the side of the cable as a guide. The red stripe should correspond to pin one on the
`cable connector. The pin number location is printed on the motherboard.
`
`Installing a Previously Configured Hard Drive
`
`Q. Can I use my original, preconfigured hard drive from my old computer since it
`already has all my programs and stuff loaded on it?
`
`A. To optimize the performance of your new AMD Athlon processor-based system, you
`should use a new high-performance drive (UDMA/66 or Ultra-SCSI) as your
`primary drive. Then use your older drive as a secondary drive so you can access
`your current data.
`
`If you wish to use your current drive as your primary drive, we strongly recom-
`mend you back up all your valuable data and critical files first before attempting
`this. Most of the time, you will be able to transfer the drive from a recently built
`
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`

`February 3, 2000
`
`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`system to your new AMD Athlon processor-based system with no problems. Drives
`from some systems (especially older systems) will not tolerate this. (Subtle varia-
`tions can occur in the specifications like signal timing and intensity between two
`different controllers.) Even if the drive will work, you should expect to load cur-
`rent drivers and reload some of your software.
`
`Ideally, to reuse an old drive, you should departition and repartition the hard
`drive (using the FDISK command), and format the drive (using the FORMAT com-
`mand). Then do a fresh installation of your operating system, install the
`AMD Athlon platform-specific drivers, and install the applications. This way, your
`system is loaded with the settings and configuration that your motherboard and
`the AMD Athlon processor-based system require. Your data (but not operating sys-
`tem or applications) can then be copied from your backups.
`
`Motherboard Drivers
`
`Please note that with constantly changing specifications and enhancements, moth-
`erboard drivers are subject to being updated. Check the configuration information
`web page at the following URL for updates:
`
`www1.amd.com/athlon/config
`
`Q. Do I need any special motherboard drivers for proper installation of my
`AMD Athlon processor and motherboard? If so, what are they and where do I get
`them?
`
`A. Yes. To date there are two drivers designed for motherboards for proper
`installation and performance of your operating system(s) and hardware with the
`AMD Athlon processor. The motherboard drivers should have been included on the
`floppy disk or CD_ROM that was included with your motherboard. Table 2 shows
`the versions of these drivers as of August 6th, 1999.
`
`Table 2.
`
`AMD Athlon™ Processor Motherboard Drivers
`
`Description
`
`AGP Miniport Driver
`(Windows 95 and Windows 98, not required for Windows NT)
`IDE Bus Master Driver
`(For motherboards with the AMD-756 peripheral bus controller)
`
`Version
`
`Date Updated
`
`4.45
`
`08-06-1999
`
`1.22
`
`09-01-1999
`
`Note: These drivers should be loaded immediately after your operating system is
`installed and before you load your video drivers for your specific video card.
`
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`

`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`February 3, 2000
`
`Installation of Your Operating System—What Hardware to Install
`Q. Are there any BIOS settings that I need to make?
`
`A. In most BIOS’s, under a title like PNP/PCI Configuration, there is usually an option
`like PNP OS Installed Yes/No. If you are running Windows 95 or Windows 98, this
`option should be set to Yes or Enabled. If you are running Windows NT, this option
`should be set to No or Disabled.
`
`Q. What hardware should I have in my computer when I am ready to load my
`operating system?
`
`A. We strongly recommend that you have no more than the following peripherals and
`components installed at the time you load your operating system:
`n Processor and heatsink with fan
`n Case exhaust fan (if possible with your case)
`n Recommended memory module (use only one to start with)
`n VGA-capable graphics card
`n Hard drive
`n CD-ROM drive
`n Diskette Drive
`n Keyboard
`n Mouse
`
`We recommend only these core components because if you can't get the operating
`system to properly load and configure with these core components, you will have
`more problems with other devices installed. Having a sound card, 3D graphics
`accelerator, modem, or other devices would only confuse the diagnostic process.
`
`After your operating system has been successfully loaded, make sure that you set
`your video card up in generic VGA mode. Do not load your video card drivers until
`you have loaded all motherboard drivers. You will need to load the following spe-
`cific motherboard drivers before you should continue loading your additional
`hardware and software:
`n AGP Miniport Driver, Version 4.45
`(Windows 95 and Windows 98, not required for Windows NT)
`IDE Bus Master Driver, Version 1.22
`(For motherboards with the AMD-756™ peripheral bus controller)
`
`n
`
`Once these two drivers are loaded, you will be ready to continue installing compo-
`nents, software, and configuring your system. Just be sure to reset your computer
`system after loading each of these drivers for successful installation and configu-
`ration.
`
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`

`February 3, 2000
`
`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`Migrating Peripherals and Components
`
`Q. Can I use all of my peripherals and components presently in my old computer in my
`new AMD Athlon computer?
`
`First, you must understand that the AMD Athlon is a new generation of processor
`that also requires a new generation of motherboard. Check with the device vendor
`to see if they have developed drivers for AMD Athlon processor-based systems.
`
`A. However, some components, peripherals, and software presently compatible in
`your older computer:
`n May not have current fixes or drivers for satisfactory performance
`n May not work with various software applications
`n May experience intermittent problems
`n May not be compatible
`
`For these reasons, it is important to check the AMD web site at
`www1.amd.com/athlon/config for the most up-to-date list of recommended compo-
`nents and drivers.
`
`Q. What about compatibility issues with legacy or end-of-life components and my
`AMD Athlon computer?
`
`A. Legacy or end-of-life (EOL) components and peripherals are usually no longer
`supported by their manufacturers. In many cases, modern software cannot be used
`with them, especially current operating systems and application software. In most
`cases, drivers are no longer researched and developed for legacy and EOL
`components.
`
`In order to get the best performance from your AMD Athlon processor and recom-
`mended motherboard, we recommend using current-production components and
`peripherals that support the AMD Athlon processor. Again, for these reasons, it is
`very important to check the AMD web site at www1.amd.com/athlon/config for the
`most up-to-date list of compatible components, peripherals, and drivers.
`
`ISA Components—Limitations
`
`Q. Can I use my older ISA components, such as an ISA video card?
`
`A. Most will work, however, there are specific limitations of older generation, legacy,
`and end-of-life components (i.e. ISA video cards, etc). Check with the device
`vendor to see if they have developed drivers for AMD Athlon processor-based
`systems.
`
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`

`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`February 3, 2000
`
`Miscellaneous Rules to Practice—Ideas, Tips, and Important Information
`
`Q. Is there anything else I should know before I build my AMD Athlon processor-
`based computer?
`
`n
`
`A. Well, there are hundreds of tips and suggestions that we could make but there just
`isn’t enough room. That’s what our web site is all about. By visiting our web site
`regularly, you will be able to keep up on all the new information, building tips, and
`suggestions to optimize your computer and its performance. On our web site you
`will find just a few of these helpful and constructive areas:
`n Listings of recommended peripherals, components, and accessories that are
`updated on a regular basis
`Installation and configuration recommendations, tips, and information that is
`updated on a regular basis
`n Setup and optimizing ideas and tips to make your AMD Athlon processor run
`at its very best
`n New products and information releases regarding your AMD Athlon to keep
`you up to date
`n Up-to-date listings and links of drivers for your approved motherboards
`n FAQs, updated on a regular basis, to assist you in many aspects of building and
`maintaining your AMD Athlon processor-based computer
`n The e-mail address and telephone number for competent and qualified techni-
`cal support
`
`Here are a few immediate tips or suggestions:
`n Before you start working on your computer or handling sensitive components,
`always use some type of static protection. Static is the number one killer of
`electrical components and parts. A simple wristband static protection device
`(that plugs into a regular electrical wall socket) will cost around $40.00. It will
`be the best investment you can make for your future computer building
`endeavors.
`n Never add or remove any device, peripheral, accessory, component, cable, or
`mouse while the system is plugged into the wall.
`n Anytime that you load a program, application or utility, when you have com-
`pleted loading it, properly exit and shut your system down completely. This
`allows you to purge the system memory completely and results in the most suc-
`cessful installation of your software. This is especially true when you have
`loaded a big application and the system doesn’t ask to be reset.
`n Do not try to build your whole computer system in a night. Take your time.
`Build it in stages. Most mistakes will be made when you are tired. Learn to take
`breaks, and most important, learn to call it quits for the day.
`
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`

`February 3, 2000
`
`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`Technical Support
`
`Q. Where do I go for technical support? Who do I call?
`
`A. phone: (408) 749-3060
`
`E-mail: hw.support@amd.com
`
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`AMD Athlon™ Processor Quick Reference FAQ
`
`February 3, 2000
`
`© 1999 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. All rights reserved.
`
`The contents of this document are provided in connection with Advanced Micro
`Devices, Inc. (“AMD”) products. AMD makes no representations or warranties with
`respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents of this publication and
`reserves the right to make changes to specifications and product descriptions at any
`time without notice. No license, whether express, implied, arising by estoppel or oth-
`erwise, to any intellectual property rights is granted by this publication. Except as
`set forth in AMD’s Standard Terms and Conditions of Sale, AMD assumes no liability
`whatsoever, and disclaims any express or implied warranty, relating to its products
`including, but not limited to, the implied warranty of merchantability, fitness for a
`particular purpose, or infringement of any intellectual property right.
`
`AMD’s products are not designed, intended, authorized or warranted for use as com-
`ponents in systems intended for surgical implant into the body, or in other applica-
`tions intended to support or sustain life, or in any other application in which the
`failure of AMD’s product could create a situation where personal injury, death, or
`severe property or environmental damage may occur. AMD reserves the right to dis-
`continue or make changes to its products at any time without notice.
`
`Trademarks
`
`AMD, the AMD logo, AMD Athlon, and combinations thereof AMD-756 and 3DNow! are trademarks and AMD-K6
`is a registered trademark of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
`
`Microsoft, Windows, and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
`
`Other product names used in this publication are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their
`respective companies.
`
`Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
`
`3DMark is a trademark of Futuremark Ltd./Oy.
`
`Winstone is a registered trademark of Ziff-Davis, Inc. Winstone scores are Business Winstone overall scores.
`
`Benchmark tests were performed without independent verification by SPEC, Futuremark, or Ziff-Davis. These
`benchmark providers make no representations or warranties as to the results of the tests.
`
`12
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