ASRock Rack W480D4U Server Motherboard — Intel W480 Chipset, LGA-1200, Micro ATX

Designed for compact, dependable server builds, the ASRock Rack W480D4U brings enterprise-grade performance to a versatile Micro ATX platform. Built around the Intel W480 chipset and the LGA-1200 socket, this motherboard is engineered to support Intel Xeon W-1200 and W-1300 series processors, delivering robust processing power for virtualization, small-scale servers, and dense workstation deployments. With four DDR4 memory slots, eight SATA ports, and reliable Gigabit Ethernet, the W480D4U offers a balanced blend of expansion, memory capacity, and trusted reliability in a compact form factor that fits in compact racks and small chassis without sacrificing performance or stability.

• Compact micro ATX design — A dense, workspace-friendly board that fits in smaller server enclosures and compact chassis, enabling flexible deployment without compromising essential server features.
• CPU and chipset versatility — Powered by the Intel W480 chipset with support for Intel Xeon W-1200 and W-1300 series processors, delivering steady performance for virtualization, light data-intensive workloads, and reliable multi-threaded processing.
• Memory capacity and reliability — Four DDR4 memory slots supporting up to 32 GB of RAM, providing a balanced memory footprint for mid-range servers and workstations while maintaining energy efficiency and data integrity.
• Storage and I/O richness — Eight SATA interfaces deliver ample storage expansion for drives and arrays, supporting multiple data disks, backups, and OS installations in compact server environments; onboard Gigabit Ethernet provides dependable network connectivity for management and data transfer.
• Enterprise-grade compatibility and expandability — The board’s workstation/server orientation and broad processor compatibility make it an ideal backbone for virtualization hosts, small business servers, and scalable departmental nodes requiring dependable hardware in a compact footprint.

Technical Details of ASRock Rack W480D4U

• Chipset: Intel W480
• CPU Socket: LGA-1200
• Form Factor: Micro ATX
• Processor Support: Intel Xeon W-1200 / W-1300 Series Processors
• Memory: 32 GB DDR4 SDRAM Maximum RAM
• Memory Slots: 4 x DDR4 UDIMM
• Memory Type: DDR4 SDRAM
• SATA Interfaces: 8 x SATA
• Ethernet: Gigabit Ethernet

How to Install ASRock Rack W480D4U

Installing the ASRock Rack W480D4U is straightforward for users familiar with standard PC building or server assembly practices. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth, reliable installation and optimal performance:

1. Prepare the chassis and power — Choose a compatible Micro ATX motherboard tray in a chassis designed for server or workstation use. Ensure the case provides adequate airflow and mounting standoffs aligned with the W480D4U’s mounting holes. Verify the power supply is sufficient for your CPU, memory, and storage devices, and has the necessary 24-pin ATX and additional 8-pin CPU power connectors.
2. CPU installation — Open the CPU socket lever, align the LGA-1200 socket with the processor’s notches, and carefully place the Xeon W-1200/W-1300 series processor into the socket. Gently close the socket lever. Apply a thin, even layer of thermal paste if your cooler requires it, then attach the CPU cooler securely to ensure proper heat dissipation.
3. Memory installation — Install DDR4 UDIMM modules into the four memory slots. For best results, populate in pairs and follow the motherboard’s manual for recommended slot ordering to enable optimal memory channel performance. The W480D4U supports up to 32 GB of RAM, so distribute capacity accordingly to meet your workload requirements.
4. Storage and SATA wiring — Connect your SATA drives or SSDs to the eight SATA ports on the board. Route data and power cables neatly, ensuring they do not obstruct fans or motherboard components. If you’re using hot-swappable bays, verify compatibility and SATA cabling arrangement for easy maintenance.
5. Power and peripheral connections — Attach the power supply connectors to the motherboard, including the 24-pin ATX and the 8-pin (or 4+4) CPU power connector as required by your chassis. Connect optional USB, front panel, and IPMI or management headers according to the chassis and use-case requirements. Secure the motherboard to the chassis with standoffs, then perform a final check to ensure no cables are pinched or misplaced.
6. Initial boot and BIOS setup — Power on and enter the BIOS/UEFI to configure boot order and memory settings. Update the firmware to the latest BIOS version if available, then configure processor parameters, memory timing, and Intel features as needed for stability and performance. Save changes and proceed to install your operating system or hypervisor.
7. Validation — After OS installation, run basic hardware validation, check memory health, and verify network connectivity. Ensure all SATA devices are detected and performing as expected, and test the system under a representative workload to confirm stability before handover or production use.

Note: Always refer to the official ASRock Rack W480D4U user manual for precise installation instructions, jumper settings, and BIOS options. While the above steps cover the general process, exact sequences may vary by chassis, power supply, or peripheral configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What processors are compatible with the ASRock Rack W480D4U?
  A: The board supports Intel Xeon W-1200 and W-1300 series processors that fit the LGA-1200 socket, enabling robust multi-threaded performance for server and workstation tasks.
• How much memory can I install?
  A: The W480D4U supports up to 32 GB of DDR4 SDRAM across four UDIMM slots. This configuration is suitable for mid-range virtualization, file-serving, and application workloads in compact builds.
• How many storage devices can I connect?
  A: The motherboard provides eight SATA interfaces, offering substantial storage expansion for OS drives, data drives, backups, and RAID configurations within a dense server environment.
• What network connectivity does it include?
  A: It includes Gigabit Ethernet for reliable, straightforward network connectivity for management, data transfer, and remote administration tasks.
• Is this board suitable for virtualization or small-scale servers?
  A: Yes. With Xeon W-series processor support, multiple memory slots, ample SATA storage, and a compact Micro ATX form factor, the W480D4U is well-suited for virtualization hosts, small office servers, home labs, and compact professional workloads.