This short review will be devoted to the motherboard model MSI N1996. Its technical characteristics, the list of supported microprocessors, the procedure for connecting it to the rest of the components of the computing system will be further discussed in detail. Recommendations will also be given regarding which computers based on it are best to implement.
Contents of delivery. System board designation
The manufacturer included the following items in the package of delivery of the computer component in question:
- Actually the motherboard marked MSI N1996.
- User manual in the most common languages.
- Metal plug for mounting in a personal computer case.
- A set of interface cords.
- A disk on which you can find all the drivers necessary in the setup process, specialized utilities with a diagnostic bias, and even electronic system documentation.
- Warranty card, valid for 36 months.
The MSI motherboard in question is based on the Socket 754 processor socket, which debuted in the world of computer technology in 2004. Initially, it allowed you to create an entry-level or mid-range PC. But the premium segment was filled with solutions based on Socket 939. In the latter, the organization of RAM was much improved, and this circumstance ensured a higher level of its speed.
It should also be noted that MSI released a whole group of such motherboards, and each of them has its own technical specifications. As part of this material, a model with the marking of MS-7181 version 2.0 will be considered.
Main settings. Layout
VIA's K8M800 chipset is at the heart of the MSI N1996 computer component under consideration. Its technical characteristics indicate that it consists of two microcircuits. One of them is K8M800, and this is the “northern” component of the chipset. And the second is designated VT8237R, and this is the “southern” chip of the system logic set.
Strictly in the center of the board is the “northern” element of the chipset, which is closed by a radiator. The processor socket is displayed above it. Two slots for installing memory slots are grouped to his right. Connectors for connecting outdated IDE drives, power supply and floppy drive are also displayed here. On the left are batteries and a communication panel.
In the lower right corner, the “southern” chipset chip is soldered. To her left are expansion slots.
Microprocessor models
As part of the socket for installing microprocessors Socket754 was released only two generations of chips. The least productive solutions in this case were those labeled Septron. Their frequencies were lowered and the cache was cut. This had an extremely negative effect on their performance and allowed only to solve the simplest tasks, which included office suites, video playback, listening to audio files and web surfing.
The segment of more productive solutions was filled with devices of the Athlon 64 line. As you might guess, the clock frequencies in this case were higher, and the cache was increased. Due to this, it was already possible to assemble gaming computers of the initial and even intermediate level.
Communications
Specifications MSI N1996 indicate the presence of such communication connectors and ports:
- one AGP for mounting a discrete accelerator;
- three slots PCI form, with their help you can connect additional controllers to the computer;
- two PS / 2 format connectors for connecting peripheral solutions;
- four USB sockets for switching with modern printers, MFPs and scanners;
- one RJ-45 format port for connecting to a computer network.
Build and Setup Algorithm
Assembling the system unit and connecting the MSI N1996 is as follows:
- We disassemble the PC case. This board is made in the microATX form factor, and it can be installed in a full-sized system unit or in a smaller one.
- In the back of the case we install a dummy plate. Then we stack the motherboard and fix it.
- After that, it is necessary to set the CPU together with the cooler.
- The next step is the installation of the power supply and its connection.
- Then we install all the drives and switch them.
- At the next stage, install the graphics adapter in the expansion slot.
- In the end, you need to connect the wires of the front panel to the connectors, which are located in the lower right corner of the component under consideration.
The cost of the device. Owner reviews
Now such a MSI motherboard can be purchased for 300-600 rubles. Again, in a used state. The main advantages of the motherboard are reliability, functionality, low cost and the ability to create computing systems of both economy class and mid-range. But all this is true for the Socket 754 platform, which is outdated. And both morally and physically. This is the main disadvantage of this computer element.
Conclusion
Specifications MSI N1996 indicate that it is an outdated motherboard today. PCs based on it have a very low speed, and they urgently need to be updated and modernized. In any case, they have already fully exhausted their resources.