The most common motherboard associated with this identifier is the (or similar variants like the 945GCM5-L). These boards were manufactured around 2006-2008, designed for Intel LGA 775 processors (Core 2 Duo, Pentium D, Celeron D), DDR2 RAM, and featured the Intel 945G chipset with integrated GMA 950 graphics.
If you look closely at the PCB (the circuit board) of your MSI hardware, you will likely see a string of characters printed in white ink. Among them, "N1996" is prominent. However, this string is actually a , specifically related to the year the PCB design was registered or standardized (dating back to 1996).
model number printed on your board? This will help me find the specific pin-out diagrams and official documentation for you. msi n1996 manual.zip
To find the correct manual, you should look for the actual model name printed on the motherboard circuit board, usually located between the PCI slots (e.g.,
General MSI Motherboard Specifications (Commonly Associated with N1996) The most common motherboard associated with this identifier
Very limited. The 945G chipset has locked PCIe/PCI frequencies. The manual will mention "D.O.T. (Dynamic Overclocking Technology)" – MSI’s basic auto-overclock feature, but expect only a 5-10% boost.
Visit the MSI Download Center and enter your specific model number (e.g., MS-7222) to find manuals, BIOS updates, and drivers. Among them, "N1996" is prominent
If you have found yourself typing "msi n1996 manual.zip" into a search engine, you are likely in a frustrating situation. You have an old computer component—probably a motherboard—manufactured by MSI (Micro-Star International), and you need the manual to jump headers, configure the BIOS, or identify specific ports.
How to Start your PC into BIOS Menu with MSI Motherboard (Press Delete)
As physical media fades, archives like this become digital artifacts. MSI has removed many pre-2010 manuals from their official support sites. Therefore, community-driven projects like and Ultimate Retro are now the primary custodians of these files.