While most personal computers available today have a single processor that may contain up to four cores, it is possible to build a computer with multiple processors. For consumers, dual processors are the most that can be obtained, as that is the maximum supported by Intel's consumer-friendly Skulltrail chipset--the only consumer chipset which supports dual processors.
Instructions
1. Place the Skulltrail motherboard into the system. The Skulltrail motherboard uses the EATX format, and so it will be larger than the motherboard that is typically found in even a powerful computer. It will also require that the proper motherboard supports are installed, so make sure that the accessories that came with the case it is being installed into are available. An improperly supported motherboard may short out, causing possible failure to boot and damage to the motherboard.
2. Install the two LGA771 processors. The processors should be matching models, but the order in which they are installed is otherwise inconsequential. Install the heatsinks and fans over the processors as one would with a normal system.
3. Seat the FB-DIMM memory in the DIMM slots. The Skulltrail platform, being based on server technology, does not use the same type of memory as a normal PC. FB-DIMMs are required for a Skulltrail based computer to function. This type of memory installs in the same way as a normal DIMM, so it is easy to install the wrong memory by mistake.
4. Make sure that all necessary power sources are properly connected and seated. Note that Intel states any Skulltrail platform PC which will be overclocked must have dual 8-Pin +12V motherboard connections active. If overclocking will not be done, then a single 8-Pin +12V motherboard connection, in addition to the normal 20+4 pin connection, will be sufficient to run the system.
5. Complete the installation of the rest of the components in the system as one would normally install system components and boot the PC. The Skulltrail platform does not affect the use of hard drives, video cards, and other components differently from a standard motherboard. Enter BIOS when the PC is booting and ensure that the BIOS is recognizing the dual processors. If it is, continue to boot to Windows. If it is not, turn the PC off and make sure that the processors are both seated firmly.
6. Boot into Windows and open the Windows Task Manager. Open the "Performance" tab. This will provide a breakdown of the cores that are available, and their current usage level. There should be eight cores showing in total, as all of the processors that can be installed into a Skulltrail motherboard are quad-core processors. At this point, all eight cores are fully ready to be used and will be accessed by any application that needs their power. Programs like Autodesk 3D Max are good candidates for witnessing all eight cores in use at one time.
Tags: eight cores, Skulltrail motherboard, Skulltrail platform, sure that, 8-Pin motherboard