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So after all the trouble getting the components, I started the build (on 9/1/2010). Since, I wanted to wait for CM 690II, I am using my old case for this build. Once I get a new cabinet, I will put back the old components in the old case.
My thoughts while assembling the components.
* The processor heat sink is small which has got a huge reputation of being inadequate. The heat-sink retention mechanism is a plastic push and lock type. Lot of people did not like this also. You have push the pins in the order specified in the manual and rotate some latches.
* The memory slots on P7P55D have locking notch on one side only. The manual says its a feature for easy installation and removal of memory. I felt the other way around while installing the memory. I feel that the old slots with notches on both sides is better.
* I like the layout of the board and had no problem installing the various components.
* I am using only one case fan, as the case supports only one rear exhaust fan. It is a cooler master basic 1300 rpm fan. I am using one of the motherboard fan headers to power this fan.
* I like the Asus Q-Connector feature. It made it easier to connect the front panel USB and power, reset buttons.
* The graphic card is long measuring just under 10.5 inches. I measured the space in my cabinet, to ensure that I can install this card in the case before going to S.P road and buying the card. There is 11 inches of space. There was no problem installing the card and there is still some place left after installing the card.
4(a) First boot
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For every build this the moment of truth. The machine should boot properly and clear the POST. I turned on the machine and it booted up, and cleared the POST without any problems. The fan on the custom heat sink is small and pretty noisy. It makes a whining noise. Another reason why I shuold consider an aftermarket heatsink, to reduce noise.
Then I entered the BIOS to check if all the components are detected as they should be. Every thing looked fine except that the memory voltage is at 1.59 and is working at 1333 (9-9-9-24). It is known that the max memory speed i5-750 can support at stock is 1333. Using XMP profile the memory is detected at its rated settings but the voltage is still 1.59. Then I reverted the setting to auto.
I downloaded the latest BIOS for my board (1207) from ASUS support site. I wanted to update the BIOS to latest before I start with OS installation. BIOS update was done using Ez-Flash. After updating to the latest BIOS also the memory voltage is at 1.59. So I manually forced voltage of 1.5 which is the voltage at which the memory is rated to work. I left the rest of the settings at their default values. Every thing is fine so far, touch wood.
4(b) Build Complete
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Name: G-Rig-3
Configuration:
Intel core i5 750
Asus P7P55D (1207 BIOS)
G.Skill RipJaws F3-12800CL9D-4GBRL (2x4GB 1600 MHz DDR3 9-9-9-24)
XFX GTX 260 XXX core Edition (SP216 / Core: 640 / shader: 1380 / Mem: 1000 / )
CORSAIR VX550W
Western Digital 500GB Black Edition (WD5001AALS)
Using my old Sony DVD-RW.
Right now using my old Zebronics Geforce 2 cabinet with one case fan (which is inadequate, but OK for the time being). Waiting for CM690 II. Add a CM Hyper 212 plus to that.
APC BACK-UPS ES 650VA 230V INDIA
DELL 2209WA
Altec Lansing MX-5021
Razer DiamondBack 3G
Razer Golaithus alpha speed edition
Using my old logitech K/B. Will upgrade to MS comfort curve 2000 or better.
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