The Intel Desktop Board DH61WW represents a cost-effective solution designed for users seeking a reliable and versatile platform for their computing needs. Built around the LGA1155 socket, this micro-ATX motherboard supports the 2nd generation Intel Core processors, offering a balanced blend of performance and affordability. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the features, capabilities, and BIOS version 0017 for the Intel Desktop Board DH61WW, aiming to inform users about its strengths and limitations.
Key Features and Specifications:
The Intel Desktop Board DH61WW is characterized by its compact micro-ATX form factor, making it suitable for smaller PC cases and space-constrained environments. Despite its size, it offers a range of features designed to meet the demands of everyday computing tasks.
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Processor Support: The motherboard is compatible with the 2nd generation Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors, also known as Sandy Bridge. These processors provide a solid foundation for multitasking, content creation, and gaming (when paired with a suitable graphics card).
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Chipset: The DH61WW utilizes the Intel H61 Express Chipset, a value-oriented chipset that provides essential connectivity and functionality. While it doesn’t offer the advanced features of higher-end chipsets like the Z68, it provides a stable and reliable platform for the supported processors.
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Memory Support: The board features two DIMM slots, allowing for a maximum of 16GB of DDR3 memory. The supported memory speeds vary depending on the processor installed, but typically range from 1066MHz to 1333MHz. Dual-channel memory architecture is supported, enabling faster data transfer rates compared to single-channel configurations.
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Expansion Slots: The Intel Desktop Board DH61WW offers one PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot, which can be used to install a dedicated graphics card for improved gaming or content creation performance. Additionally, it includes one or two PCI Express x1 slots and one PCI slot for legacy expansion cards.
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Connectivity: The board provides essential connectivity options, including:
- VGA port for connecting to a monitor
- Four SATA 3Gb/s ports for connecting storage devices (hard drives, SSDs, optical drives)
- Eight USB 2.0 ports (four on the rear panel and four via internal headers)
- Gigabit Ethernet port for network connectivity
- Audio ports for connecting speakers, headphones, and microphones
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Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0: This technology automatically increases the processor’s clock speed when needed, providing a performance boost for demanding applications. The amount of boost depends on the processor, workload, and thermal conditions.
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Intel Hyper-Threading Technology (Intel HT Technology): This technology allows each processor core to handle two threads simultaneously, effectively doubling the number of virtual cores. This can improve performance in multi-threaded applications.
BIOS Version 0017: Enhancements and Updates
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a critical component of the motherboard, responsible for initializing the hardware and loading the operating system. BIOS updates often include bug fixes, performance enhancements, and support for new hardware. While the specific changes included in BIOS version 0017 for the Intel Desktop Board DH61WW are not explicitly listed in the original information, BIOS updates generally address the following areas:
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Improved System Stability: Addressing potential crashes, freezes, or other stability issues.
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Enhanced Hardware Compatibility: Improving compatibility with newer memory modules, storage devices, or other peripherals.
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Performance Optimizations: Fine-tuning system settings for improved performance.
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Security Updates: Addressing potential security vulnerabilities.
Driver Download Link:
While a changelog for BIOS 0017 isn’t provided, the following link leads to the BIOS update:
Download Intel Desktop Board DH61WW Bios 0017
Alternative Download Link:
As a backup, users can also find the BIOS update on websites like Softpedia:
Alternative Download Intel Desktop Board DH61WW Bios 0017 from Softpedia
Considerations and Limitations:
While the Intel Desktop Board DH61WW offers a solid foundation for a budget-friendly PC build, it’s important to be aware of its limitations:
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Limited Expansion: The single PCI Express x16 slot and limited number of SATA ports may restrict future expansion options.
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H61 Chipset Limitations: The Intel H61 Express Chipset lacks some of the advanced features found on higher-end chipsets, such as overclocking support and multiple graphics card support.
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Legacy Features: The inclusion of a VGA port and PCI slot indicates a focus on compatibility with older hardware, which may not be relevant for all users.
Conclusion:
The Intel Desktop Board DH61WW is a viable option for users seeking an affordable and reliable motherboard for building a PC based on the 2nd generation Intel Core processors. Its micro-ATX form factor, essential features, and support for Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology make it suitable for a variety of everyday computing tasks. While it lacks some of the advanced features of higher-end motherboards, its affordability and compatibility with legacy hardware make it a practical choice for budget-conscious users. Users should ensure they update to the latest BIOS version, such as 0017, to benefit from the latest bug fixes, performance enhancements, and hardware compatibility improvements. Remember to exercise caution when updating the BIOS, as an interrupted or incorrectly performed update can render the motherboard unusable.