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Intel 6-Series Chipset Recall - Sandy Bridge Intel P67 & H67 (v2.2)
Intel 6-Series Chipset Recall - Sandy Bridge Intel P67 & H67 (v2.2) - PCSTATS
On January 31st 2011, Intel announced a silicon level problem with its latest 6-series motherboard chipsets - the Intel P67 and Intel H67 for 2nd generation Intel Core i5/i7 2xxx series (socket 1155) processors.
Filed under: Motherboards Published:  Author: 
External Mfg. Website: Intel Feb 07 2011   Max Page  
Home > Reviews > Motherboards > Intel

On January 31st 2011, Intel announced a silicon level problem with its latest 6-series motherboard chipsets - the Intel P67 and Intel H67 for 2nd generation Intel Core i5/i7 2xxx series (socket 1155) processors. Intel halted production of the affected 6-series chipsets and began a recall of affected parts from the sales channel, undertaking measures to remedy affected boards & computer systems sold to consumers since January 9th.

The design problem with Intel's 6-series chipsets is specific to the 'B2' stepping of Intel P67 & H67 chipsets. The flaw may result in 3Gb/s Serial-ATA II (SATA II) ports degrading over time, in the words of Intel "potentially impacting the performance or functionality of SATA-linked devices such as hard disk drives and DVD-drives." The issue is specific to SATA II ports within the Intel P67 & H67 chipsets only. The SATA III 6Gb/s ports provided by the Intel P67/H67 chipset are not affected. The Intel 'Sandy Bridge' Core i3/i5/i7 2xxx series microprocessor is also not affected.

Unfortunately, the timing of the recall notice coincided with Chinese Lunar New Year holidays so motherboard makers were initially unable to respond quickly with full action plans owing to the absence of HQ staff.

PCSTATS has created this document to collect and centralize initial manufacturer responses for our readers as they come in, rather than spread this information out over dozens of individual news posts. If you have any questions, please contact your motherboard manufacturer or the store where you purchased the affected motherboard for its official policies, registration steps and eligibility cut off dates. Likewise, please visit your motherboard manufacturer for the latest official information as the Terms and Conditions are of each manufacturer's return and exchange policies are subject to change without notice.

Thus far the typical response from motherboard makers has been to:
1) Suspend all affected Intel P67/H67 motherboard production until the supply of new 'B3' stepping Intel 6-series chipsets is available.
2) Recall all affected Intel P67/H67 motherboards from stores so customers won't be purchasing potentially affected hardware.
3) Outline measures for customers who have already purchased an affected motherboard.
4) Set up time a limited registration system for motherboard exchange. IMPORTANT - if you have an affected P67/H67 motherboard, register it for exchange immediately. Most manufacturers are only offering to exchange affected P67/H67 products registered with them before April 30th - some manufacturers are providing an even shorter registration period. Register your motherboard with its manufacturer now if you wish to exchange it for an identical product not affected by the Intel 6-series chipset design error.

Corrected 'B3' stepping Intel P67 & H67 chipsets are expected in late February or early March 2011, so if you've been planning an upgrade to a Core i5-2500K based PC system you may need to wait until April 2011 while this mess gets sorted out or consider one of AMDs latest processors.

Intel 6-Series Chipset Recall - Quick Facts

What computer hardware is affected?
Any motherboard built with a B2 stepping Intel P67 or Intel H67 chipset prior to January 31st, 2011. These chipsets are collectively known as the Intel 6-series chipsets, code named 'Couger Point.' The design problem affects 3Gb/s Serial-ATA II (SATA II) ports provided by the 6-series chipsets only, potentially causing the SATA II ports to degrade over time and essentially leading to SATA devices to being unavailable as far as the computer is concerned. Apparently the problem may manifest itself in 2-3 years time, so Intel has stated "that consumers can continue to use their systems with confidence, while working with their computer manufacturer for a permanent solution. "

What is Intel doing to remedy the problem with its 6-series chipsets?
Intel has initiated steps to remove affected chipsets from the manufacturing pipeline, to recall chipsets from the sales channel and undertaken measures to allow consumers to return boards affected by this issue to the original manufacturer ("to support modifications or replacements needed on motherboards or systems").

Who do I return my 6-series chipset motherboard to, and when?
This will vary depending on where you purchased the board and who manufacturers it, but in general you will want to first contact the purchasing point if you wish to return it for a refund now. Motherboard exchanges are likely to happen at the end of April 2011, however many motherboard makers are setting up registration lists now to be eligable to exchange your affected 6-series chipset motherboard then. Check with your motherboards manufacturer, the registration is time limited and may end as early as April 30th to be eligable for a replacement.

Motherboard Manufacturers Respond

This chart lists many known affected motherboards from the top motherboard manufacturers along with the Mfgr's support response in one handy format. Most manufacturers will not begin replacing affected motherboards until late April 2011. If you are concerned about the SATA II issue in the mean time PCSTATS advises you to switch your hard drives over the integrated SATA III ports which are unaffected by this 6-series chipset flaw.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER:
Terms and Conditions are of each manufacturer's motherboard exchange and motherboard return policies are subject to change - please contact your motherboard manufacturer or point of purchase regarding its official policy on the Intel 6-series chipset recall. This document may not reflect all information, or up to date or accurate information. Please check with your purchasing point or motherboard manufacture for official policies and registration steps, including exchange cut-off dates and registration cut-off dates. PCSTATS has posted this information to try and help its readers, however PCSTATS is not responsible for any information omissions, errors, misrepresentations or inaccuracies contained in this document. Contact your motherboard manufacturer or point of purchase for official policy statements.

Unofficial Intel 6-Series Recall
Motherboard Support Detail Chart

Manufacturer

Support Details and Time Line

Products Affected

Action


Gigabyte

https://www.gigabyte.com

"GIGABYTE will provide a replacement motherboardS with the new 6 series chipset onboard at the end of April in order to reduce any inconvenience to our customers who are affected by this issue.
At the end of April please take your 6 series motherboard to the same store where you originally purchased it. If the product is not available at that time, please leave the series number and your personal contact details with the store and wait for further notice."

Links: Gigabyte recall FAQ page.

GA-P67A-UD3
GA-P67A-UD3R
GA-P67A-UD3P
GA-P67A-UD4
GA-P67A-UD5
GA-P67A-UD7
GA-PH67-UD3
GA-PH67A-UD3
GA-P65A-UD3
GA-H67M-D2
GA-H67M-UD2H
GA-H67MA-D2H
GA-H67MA-UD2H
GA-H67A-UD3H
Motherboard exchange at original purchase point in April/May.


ASUS
https://www.asus.com

"...a free product replacement program is available directly from ASUS. ASUS will provide free 2-way standard shipping and an equivalent/new product replacement with warranty renewal at time of replacement*.
Additionally, ASUS recommends contacting your E-tailer or place of purchase immediately for refund options if the work around or direct replacement solution is not acceptable."

"US and Canadian customers should fill out the Service Registration Form to register your product(s) for replacement."

"The time to qualify for this special program will be limited in scope. An end date to complete the Service Registration form and receive RMA approval will be published in the near future. Customers not completing this form and receiving RMA approval within the specified time frame will not be eligible for the Warranty Renewal Program."

Links: https://service.asus.com/notice/overview.aspx
North America Hotline: 1-888-678-3688; 1-812-282-2787
(see above link for other countries)

P8H67
P8H67-I Deluxe
P8H67-M
P8H67-M Evo
P8H67-M LE
P8H67-M LX
P8H67-M Pro
P8H67-V
Maximus IV Extreme
P8P67
P8P67 Deluxe
P8P67 Evo
P8P67 LE
P8P67 Pro
P8P67 WS Revolution
P8B WS
P8P67-M
P8P67-M Pro
Sabertooth P67
P8Q67-M DO

Refund at point of purchase, dependent on store refund policy (now).
Time limited offer for motherboard exchange through Service channels. User must register for exchange, before unspecified date.


MSI Computer

(Micro-Star International)
https://www.msi.com

"Contact the original place of purchase for more details on the return or refund policy.
End users can register their Intel 6 Series notebook or motherboard with MSI by April 30, 2011 at https://us.msi.com/snb_replacement to be eligible for replacement with the new b3 stepping of the intel 6 series motherboard when it is available in channel."

Support Links: https://us.msi.com/snb_replacement
support email: SNB_Support@msi.com

P67A-C43
P67A-GD53
P67A-GD65
P67A-C45
P67A-GD55
P67S-C43
H67MA-E45
H67MA-ED55
H67MA-E33
H67MS=E43
Refund at point of purchase, dependent on store refund policy.
Time limited offer for motherboard exchange through MSI. User must register for exchange by April 30th, 2011.


ECS

(Elite Computer Systems)
https://www.ecs.com.tw

for the us: "Customers have the option to return the product at the original point of purchase for a refund. Customers who wish to keep the product or have any issue returning the product at the point of purchase, ECS USA will absorb the cost of the product exchange 100% by offering a product swap.
Upon availability of the new B3 Stepping of the Intel 6 Series Express Chipsets, ECS USA will replace customer's product with a brand-new one. New motherboards are expected in April."

Support Links: elite@ecsusa.com or voicemail: 510-771-0208

P67H2-A
P67H2-A2
P67H2-A3
P67H2-A4
H67H2-A3
H67H2-I
H67H2-M
H67H2-M2
H67H2-M3
H67H2-M4
Refund at point of purchase (now).
Motherboard exchange via ECS RMA channels in April.


Biostar

https://www.biostar.com.tw

"to return the product, please contact your place of purchase for return procedures. Many of Biostar authorized dealer is aware of the situation and will help to assist you.
For the Intel 6 series chipset design issue, Biostar will offer advance replacement program which will include a return shipping label in return for customer convenience. Details of the advance replacement program will be announced on Biostar website when parts are available. ETA is April 2011."

Support Link: https://www.biostar-usa.com/app/en-us/news/index.php

tp67xe
th67xe
tp67b+
th67+
refund at point of purchase, dependent on store refund policy.
motherboard exchange via biostar rma channel in april.

some motherboard manufacturer response statements and notices are posted below for each of the major motherboard companies affected by the intel 6-series chipset issue. these documents are primarily focused on north america and are posted here for your reference, rather than across a few dozen news pages on pcstats. news updates to this ongoing story from partner websites are indexed at the bottom of this page.

Intel 6-Series Chipset Notices
www.intel.com
Intel updates: https://www.intel.com/support/chipsets/sb/cs-032263.htm
newsroom: https://newsroom.intel.com/community/intel_newsroom/blog/2011/01/31/intel-identifies-chipset-design-error-implementing-solution

alert for intel® 6 series express chipsets and intel® xeon® c200 chipsets users

as part of ongoing quality assurance, intel corporation has discovered a design issue in a recently released support chip, the intel® 6 series (and the intel® c200 series chipset), and has implemented a silicon fix. in some cases, the serial-ata (sata) ports within the chipsets may degrade over time, potentially impacting the performance or functionality of sata-linked devices such as hard disk drives and dvd-drives. the chipset is utilized in pcs with intel’s latest second generation intel core processors. intel has stopped shipment of the affected support chip from its factories. intel has corrected the design issue, and has begun manufacturing a new version of the support chip which will resolve the issue. the sandy bridge microprocessor is unaffected and no other products are affected by this issue.

the company expects to begin delivering the updated version of the chipset to customers in late february and expects full volume recovery in april. intel stands behind its products and is committed to product quality. for computer makers and other intel customers that have bought potentially affected chipsets or systems, intel will work with its oem partners to accept the return of the affected chipsets, and plans to support modifications or replacements needed on motherboards or systems. the systems with the affected support chips have only been shipping since january 9th and the company believes that relatively few consumers are impacted by this issue. the only systems sold to an end customer potentially impacted are second generation core i5 and core i7 quad core based systems. intel believes that consumers can continue to use their systems with confidence, while working with their computer manufacturer for a permanent solution.


Official GIGABYTE - Intel 6-Series Chipset Recall Notices
www.gigabyte.com
Updates: https://www.gigabyte.com/press-center/news-page.aspx?nid=984

gigabyte recall announcement for intel 6-series b2 stepping based motherboards
gigabyte technology has received an official announcement from intel indicating the intel 6-series chipset design error and has implemented a silicon fix. codenamed cougar point, these chipsets will in some cases cause the serial-ata (sata) ports within the chipsets to degrade over time, potentially impacting the performance or functionality of sata-linked devices such as hard disk drives and dvd-drives.

as the no.1 motherboard manufacturer, gigabyte will make its best effort to recall boards that were built on the mentioned chipsets from our distributors with minimum disruptions. as of today, we have suspended the entire 6 series b2 stepping chipset based motherboards shipments. according to intel’s production schedule, the 6 series b3 stepping express chipset will be available in volume by april. gigabyte will then, based on this shipping schedule, produce new motherboard models with the new b3 stepping.

announcements:
1. gigabyte has stopped shipping and selling all intel 6 series b2 stepping chipset based motherboards.
2. all the intel 6 series b2 stepping based motherboards stocks are being retrieved from all distributors and dealers.
3. any sold gigabyte intel 6 series b2 stepping chipset based motherboards should be returned and accepted from authorized gigabyte dealers.
4. the new b3 stepping chipset should be available toward the end of february. gigabyte will work with intel closely to make the new motherboards become available to customers sometime in april.
5. gigabyte will introduce a brand-new 6 series motherboard line based on the intel 6 series b3 stepping chipset.

gigabyte requests all dealers stop selling b2 stepping 6-series chipset based motherboards, and assist customers in choosing the normal sata 3.0 connector to avoid sata 2.0 problems for the time being.


Intel 6 Series Chipset Problem - End Customer Q& A
Q: What exactly is the problem of Intel 6 Series Chipset?
A: The problem has been stated that after a period of usage, the SATA2 ports on Intel 6 Series B2 stepping chipset motherboards might experience some performance loss or decrease. This issue will apply to all Intel 6 Series Express chipset based motherboards. However, it will not be an issue for systems that connect to any SATA3 ports (refer to your GIGABYTE User Manual for the layout/location of the SATA3 ports). For more information please refer to “Alert for Intel® 6 Series Express Chipsets and Intel® Xeon® C200 Chipsets users” which release by Intel, Jan 31st, 2011.

Q: What models have been affected by this issue?
A: All GIGABYTE P67/H67 series motherboards embedded with the B2 stepping 6 Series Express Chipsets are affected.

Q: What action should be taken if I own/purchased a GIGABYTE 6 Series motherboard?
A: GIGABYTE stands behind all our products, and is committed to the highest quality product and customer support services. We recommend you return your product to your place of purchase for a refund. GIGABYTE is working with our vast network of distributors, and retailer/online dealers to streamline refunds with minimal inconvenience to end customers.

Q: Does GIGABYTE offer a swap policy for GIGABYTE 6 Series motherboards?
A: GIGABYTE will do it's best to reduce any disruptions. Corrected product will be available near the end of April (pending Intel production schedule). We encourage all customers to return their affected product for refunds now. Those customers electing to keep the current flawed motherboard and wait two months for a similar replacement motherboard will need to register, and sign a release waiver form. Contact GIGABYTE Customer service department for this option.

Q: When will the replacement be available?
A: According to Intel's production plan, the 6 Series B3 stepping Express Chipset will be available in volume by April. GIGABYTE will then, based on Intel's shipping schedule, produce new motherboard models.


ASUS - Intel 6-Series Chipset Recall Notices
www.asus.com
Updates: https://service.asus.com/notice/overview.aspx
https://event.asus.com/2011/sandybridge/notice/
asus’ response to the intel® 6 series support chip design error for north america users

on january 31st 2011, intel announced a design problem with the new intel 6 series support chipset, also known as cougar point. the chipset is utilized in pcs with intel's latest Second Generation Intel Core processors, code-named Sandy Bridge. Intel has stopped shipment of the affected 6 Series support chip from its factories. Intel has corrected the design issue, and has begun manufacturing a new version of the 6 Series support chip which will resolve the issue. The Sandy Bridge processor is unaffected and no other products are affected by this issue.

To proactively address this problem and fulfill our uncompromising quality pledge for providing the highest levels of product quality and customer service, ASUS is providing a number of options ranging from refunds to free product replacement, easy workaround solutions, and dedicated customer support for our valued customers. In addition, shipments of current ASUS Sandy Bridge based products affected by the Intel®6 series support chipset problem have been halted. This suspension covers all distribution and retail channels.

Read an open letter to ASUS’ valued customers and partners:
https://event.asus.com/2011/sandybridge/notice/

learn more about the intel6 series chipset design issue directly from intel:
https://newsroom.intel.com/community/intel_newsroom/blog/2011/01/31/intel-identifies-chipset-design-error-implementing-solution

https://www.intel.com/consumer/products/processors/chipset.htm?iid=en_us_01_chipset+gg_headline

asus motherboards
asus has confirmed with intel that the design error does not affect sata ports 0 and 1, which are the sata 6gb/s capable ports. additionally, asus as a leading motherboard designer and pioneer of new innovations offers extra sata 3gb/s and sata 6gb/s ports beyond intel specifications on a wide range of motherboards. asus has provided an easy workaround solution to the Intel design issue here. ASUS standard warranty and terms of service are still in effect for the affected products.

However, if this workaround is not acceptable, a free product replacement program is available directly from ASUS. ASUS will provide free 2-way standard shipping and an equivalent/new product replacement with warranty renewal at time of replacement*. Additionally, ASUS recommends contacting your E-tailer or place of purchase immediately (place of business from which you actually purchased the motherboard) for refund options if the workaround or direct replacement solution is not acceptable.

Product Replacement
For US and Canadian Customers Only - Please fill out the Service Registration Form to register your product(s) for replacement. Pending replacement part shipment schedules from Intel, it may take several or more weeks for replacement services to begin. Customers will be serviced based on their order form completion date.

*Warranty Renewal date will be set at time of shipment for the replacement product. The time to qualify for this special program will be limited in scope. An end date to complete the Service Registration form and receive RMA approval will be published in the near future. Customers not completing this form and receiving RMA approval within the specified time frame will not be eligible for the Warranty Renewal Program. However, the normal warranty period and terms of service based on their original purchase date will still be honored. Please check back to this site or other authorized ASUS sites periodically for updated information regarding this program.


Proactively responding to the Intel-identified Sandy Bridge chipset design error

Intel on January 31, 2011 announced the detection of a design error in the new Sandy Bridge-based Intel 6 Series support chip, also known as Cougar Point. The shipment of existing Sandy Bridge products has been suspended by Intel and the production of an updated support chip has commenced. The design error affects only the support chip, and not 2nd generation Intel Core™ processors such as the i5 and i7.

Acting on our philosophy and promise of inspiring innovation and persistent perfection, ASUS has created a comprehensive response to this development to safeguard the best interest of ASUS customers around the world. ASUS will provide total warranty services to maximize computing and usability as each ASUS product is delivered with an uncompromising quality pledge. This includes the hassle-free return and/or replacement of all affected ASUS products. We’re doing all this effective immediately – and as a first step, shipments of current ASUS Sandy Bridge-based products have been halted. The suspension covers all distribution and retail channels — ASUS only sells quality-assured products, at all times and across all product segments.

For all customers who already own any ASUS product affected by the design error identified by Intel, simply visit https://event.asus.com/2011/sandybridge/notice for detailed warranty and service hotline information. we’ll be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding this issue, as well as provide information on future updates to sandy bridge technology.

asus notebook and desktop products are covered by a warranty service that addresses the design error, with both swap and sales return offered as options to customers.

for motherboards, we’ve confirmed with intel that the cougar point design error does not affect sata ports 0 and 1. additionally, asus has been a pioneer in including extra sata 3gb/s and sata 6gb/s ports beyond intel specifications on a wide range of motherboards. these ports are not affected by this design error, offering customers an option for uninterrupted computing. however, we’re also offering you the option of returning any possibly affected motherboard for a swap or sales return. all warranties for affected motherboards will be reset to give you enough time to carry out any exchanges.

asus has also started an initiative to contact customers regarding this issue, and we’ll cover all channel partners, distributors and registered buyers of affected asus products. as mentioned above, you may opt to return any affected products to asus for a swap or sales return.

we’ll post updates through our official website and other channels regarding any developments or fixes to sandy bridge products. thank you for your understanding, support and cooperation, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.


MSI Computer - Intel 6-Series Chipset Recall Notices
www.msi.com
Updates: https://us.msi.com/snb_replacement


msi north america responds to intel 6 series chipset issue with replacement or upgrades for affected units
customers can register online for replacement of affected p67 and h67 motherboards or upgrade for affected notebook
msi computer corp., a leading manufacturer of computer hardware products and solutions, today announced that it has stopped shipments in north america of sandy bridge products following intel’s announcement of a design issue in the recently released intel 6 series chipset. the company is quickly responding to this issue by working with retailers, distributors and channel partners to stop all shipments, msi is also offering end users replacements and upgrades for the affected motherboards and notebooks respectively at its intel 6 series motherboards and notebook Support page .

MSI North America takes the quality of its products and service to its customers very serious, therefore the company is working closely with Intel to accept the return of Intel P67 and H67 motherboards, as well as its HM67 gaming laptops. MSI’s All-in-One PCs based on the new generation of Intel Core i processors are not affected, and are still scheduled to launch in late March 2011.

MSI encourages end users who want to return their MSI Intel P67 and H67 motherboards or affected gaming notebooks, to contact the original place of purchase for more details on the return or refund policy. Alternatively, end users can register their Intel 6 Series notebook or motherboard with MSI by April 30, 2011 at https://us.msi.com/snb_replacement to be eligible for the following options.

1. hm67 gaming notebooks: end users are eligible to receive an upgrade to msi’s next generation gaming notebook upon its availability.
2. p67 and h67 motherboards: end users are eligible for a replacement with the new b3 stepping of the intel 6 series motherboard when it is available in channel.
3. shipping: to make the replacement as smooth as possible, msi will provide end users with a ups 3 day shipping label for returns and will deliver the brand new item by ups 3 day shipping, both at no cost.

"MSI is wholly committed to both our customers and to the overall quality of our products," noted Andy Tung, vice president of North American sales for MSI. "While we work with Intel to resolve the chipset issues, we want to make sure our customers know their concerns are our top priority. We believe offering future replacement options will help alleviate some of the discomfort this issue has caused."

For questions regarding replacement of MSI Intel P67 or H67 motherboard and HM67 notebook, end users may contact MSI at SNB_Support@msi.com.

For news from Intel on chipset design error, please visit Intel’s newsroom

Intel statement:
"As part of ongoing quality assurance, Intel Corporation has discovered a design issue in a recently released support chip, the Intel 6 Series, code-named Cougar Point, and has implemented a silicon fix. In some cases, the Serial-ATA (SATA) ports within the chipsets may degrade over time, potentially impacting the performance or functionality of SATA-linked devices such as hard disk drives and DVD-drives. … For computer makers and other Intel customers that have bought potentially affected chipsets or systems, Intel will work with its OEM partners to accept the return of the affected chipsets, and plans to support modifications or replacements needed on motherboards or systems."

To learn more about MSI’s complete product lines, please visit: https://us.msi.com


ECS Elitegroup - Intel 6-Series Chipset Recall Notices
www.ecs.com.tw
Updates: https://www.ecs.com.tw


ecs usa's Commitment to its Intel 6 Series Express Chipset Motherboard Customers

ECS ELITEGROUP USA (ECS USA) branch office has worked with Intel and has been made aware of a design flaw in its newest generation Intel 6 Series Express Chipsets (codenamed Cougar Point, B2 Stepping) which could, under normal operation, experience an issue with SATA ports 2-5 that may result in these SATA ports experiencing a functional issue over time.

ECS USA, along with all motherboard manufacturers, is working closely with Intel on containing the distribution of the B2 Stepping of this product on its motherboards. ECS USA takes pride in its products' quality and is passionate about offering the best possible customer experience. ECS USA stands by its products and is committed to its customers by offering the following:

- Immediate suspension of all sales of Intel 6 Series Express Chipsets (codenamed Cougar Point, B2 Stepping) in its channel.
- Upon availability of the new B3 Stepping of the Intel 6 Series Express Chipsets, ECS USA will replace customer's product with a brand-new one. New motherboards are expected in April. ECS USA will keep its customers updated on this schedule.
- Replacement for products currently in the market that are affected: P67H2-A(1.1), P67H2-A2(1.0), P67H2-A3(1.0), H67H2-M(1.1), H67H2-M3(1.0)
- Work closely with its distributors and reseller channel on the return and replacement of current inventory

For end users in the U.S. (48 contiguous states), ECS USA offers the following:
- Customers have the option to return the product at the original point of purchase for a refund.
- Customers who wish to keep the product or have any issue returning the product at the point of purchase, ECS USA will absorb the cost of the product exchange 100% by offering a product swap. If a customer has one of the above products, please communicate with ECS USA via one of the following methods to arrange a replacement once they become available:
Via e-mail (preferred method): elite@ecsusa.com or Via voice-mail: 510-771-0208 (voicemail, only).

Whichever method is used, customers should provide the following information in order to create a case number and allow for ECS USA to respond:
- Customer Name, Model Name, Serial Number, Purchased From (optional), Contact Number, E-mail Address, Shipping Address
- All support questions not related to the Intel 6 Series Express Chipset based motherboard replacement can be sent to our regular support channel.

"All motherboard manufacturers are affected by this news but we want to minimize our customers' exposure to the error detailed by Intel. This is why we want to offer our faithful customers the opportunity to get a refund. Or, if they want to wait for the fix we can get them a brand-new motherboard delivered to them at no charge" commented Ray Lin, Vice President of Motherboard and Graphics Card Business Unit of ECS USA.

ECS USA does not see the replacement of the Intel 6 Series Express Chipset based motherboards as a negative impact. Rather, it permits ECS USA to better tune its already greatly praised/ awarded Intel P67/H67 series and offer an even more perfect ECS Intel P67/H67 motherboards series, once Intel releases the new B3 Stepping chipset fixing the current issues.

For more information, please visit ECS at www.ecs.com.tw


Biostar - Intel 6-Series Chipset Recall Notices
www.biostar.com.tw
Updates: https://www.biostar-usa.com/app/en-us/news/index.php

biostar usa announcement regarding intel 6 series chipset design issue

on jan 31st intel announced a flaw with the 6 series where "In some cases, the Serial-ATA (SATA) ports within the chipsets may degrade over time, potentially impacting the performance or functionality of SATA-linked devices such as hard disk drives and DVD-drives.” This fix will require a hardware modification or motherboard replacement which cannot be fixed by BIOS updates. Biostar has initiated a service notice guide for the 6 Series products to address customer concerns. However if you are enjoying the product and wish to continue to use the product until revised parts available, (ETA for replacements parts is April, due to production time) you are welcome do to so, but with caution. Problem is said to be affecting 5% to 15% of the products over a 2 to 3 year usage. At this moment, Biostar has stopped all shipments of P67 and H67 chipset motherboards.

In the meantime we would like to offer suggestions to the community for those who wish to continue to use the product until replacement parts are available.

1. Always back up your data just in case something goes wrong.
2. All Biostar P67 and H67 motherboards have at least two SATA3 ports, please use the SATA3 ports as the primary devices Note: So far this design bug is related to the SATA2 ports, SATA3 ports are safe to use.Even if you have SATA2 or SATA1 devices, they are safe to be used on SATA3 ports as SATA3 is backwards compatible with SATA1 and SATA2.
3. If you are still concerned and would like to return the product, please contact your place of purchase for return procedures. Many of Biostar authorized dealer is aware of the situation and will help to assist you..
4. Note: For the Intel 6 series chipset design issue, Biostar will offer advance replacement program which will include a return shipping label in return for customer convenience. Details of the advance replacement program will be announced on Biostar website https://www.biostar-usa.com/app/en-us/news/index.php when parts are available. eta is april 2011.

biostar products affected, were only sold between 12-01-2011 to 02-01-2011

further developments:

GIGABYTE Ships All New B3 6 Series Motherboards
First-tier motherboard makers to begin shipping boards with fixed Intel chipsets
Intel identifies chipset design error, implementing solution
iXBT Labs Review: Intel 6th Series Chipset Defect
Newegg pulls Sandy Bridge CPUs and P67 Motherboards
Intel finds flaw in 6-series chipsets, halts shipments
Alert for Intel 6 Series Express Chipsets (P67 / H67)
Intel Recalls H67/P67 chipsets, tells users not to worry.
Intel halting shipment of 6-series chipsets


 

Contents of Article: Intel

 
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