Some Questions about MSI P965 Neo

[Lord Nemesis]

Hi Guyz... My first post in AnandTech.. 🙂

I recently purchased the MSI P965 Neo. This was the only 965 board available here at a decent price and also because I had rock solid stability from my previous MSI K8N Neo Platinum. But after purchase, I came to know that there might be some compatibility issues. I havnt set it up yet. So please give me inputs on what problems I might face.

I am going to couple it with the following hardware.

Processor: Intel Core 2 E6300
RAM: Transcend JetRAM DDR2 667MHz 1 GB Module (The Only 667MHz modules available here)
Graphics: Sapphire X1900XT 512 MB
Sound: Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS
HDD: Seagate 300GB SATA2, Seagate 200GB SATA1
Sony DVDWriter (PATA IDE Interface)
PSU: Antec Neo HE 500

Are these things Compatible with this board. I also heard that there are problems with booting IDE drives (HDD/CD/DVD-ROM) on P965 motherboards with the JMicron Controller. What is the solution for this. Do I need to install any drivers prior to Win XP Installation? Will I need a Floppy Drive (I dont have one right now).

I also Intend to give this mobo to my sis after 2 months. She has to use it with two almost brand new PATA HDD. Is there any solution for that? Can I use a PCI to IDE controller without problems?

Thanks in advance...

 

[hans007]

friend of mine has that board. seems to work great.

he had no problem oboting. i think the only thing about that board that isnt fantastic, is the overclocking . fsb is 333 max, and no cpu core voltage. but if you are just running stock you'll be fine.

 

[Lord Nemesis]

Originally posted by: hans007
friend of mine has that board. seems to work great.

he had no problem oboting. i think the only thing about that board that isnt fantastic, is the overclocking . fsb is 333 max, and no cpu core voltage. but if you are just running stock you'll be fine.

Thanks 🙂 , This is anyway a temporary rig for me to be used till dec. afterwards it goes to my sis. so no overclocking on this one as my sis needs a stable and reliable rig. Regarding the booting issues, did your friend had any need to install drivers through floppy or did it work out of the box. I have to install Win XP by booting off a CD and that why I am concerned.