nForce 2 Chipset Boards » Abit NF7 Version 1.1 & Thermalright SP97 Compatibility Problems Causes Multiplier to Malfunction


AMD Athlon Steppings
AXDA2100DUT3C 9394647280018
AIUHB 0302TPJW

Die-locked CPUs

Starting from week 39 of 2003, Athlon CPUs have certain bridges locked via the core, so modifying these bridges doesn’t affect operation at all.

 On July 29, 2004

My processor is running at FSB 200 mhz X 11 multiplier
I brought Thermalright SP97.
Installing it at mounting holes, as shown in the picture, the resistor would drop off due to the surrounding area too narrow or the standoffs are too big.
I send it for RMA.

On August 23, 2004

 On the day of collection, I took back my motherboard which was under warranty.
Abit didn’t solder back the resistor that was drop off
Abit updated my system BIOS to the latest version 26
So It means that there is no problems of installing Thermalright SP97
However I could not change my processor multiplier of default 13X.
Once I change the multiplier in the BIOS, I am getting a two tone siren and the system could not boot up.
I notice that the system actually wanted to POST as I heard the single beep sound on cold boot.
If that resistor doesn’t affect anything, it all means to me is that Abit have disable the multiplier control on my motherboard.

Thermalright SP97 Socket 462 Motherboard Compatibility Information
Thermalright did include their SP97 compatible with Abit NF7 Version 1.1
Thermalright claims to support SP97 without having to use neo back plate so they should cancel off that line.
http://www.thermalright.com/a_page/main_support_faq_motherboard_sp97.htm
 

Abit NF7 Version 1.1 will not fit without Modified standoffs components fall into the 5mm keep out zone.

The standoffs don't fit in the mounting holes on the motherboard The circular portion of the standoff just above the threads is just a bit too large and even if I forced them through, they are impossible to screw into the blackplate underneath the board because they couldn't rotate freely.

On September 9, 2004

I have email thermalright on the September 02, 2004 for extra standoffs.
Thermalright have shipped me some spring loaded screws, standoffs, metal washers and plastic washers.
I have modify the standoffs by filing off the hexagon edges to reduce the diameter of 6mm to 5mm.


On October 9, 2004

I have again RMA my motherboard.
• Sound card undetected
• Unable to adjust CPU multiplier
• LPT port undetected

On December 11, 2004

My Motherboard is finally ready for collection after 2 months of RMA. This time around Abit has exchange me with a refurbished Abit NF7 Version 1.1 motherboard.
Modify 3 of the Thermalright SP97 standoffs. I have no problems now changing my processor multiplier.