The marking is not actually a model number for an MSI motherboard. It is a regulatory compliance code (ACA supplier code) indicating that the product meets Australian electromagnetic compatibility standards. Consequently, many different MSI motherboards, graphics cards, and optical drives from various eras carry this same mark.
To find the actual specifications for your board, you must first identify the true model number How to Find Your True Model Number
Look for a code printed directly on the circuit board, often between the expansion slots or near the RAM. It usually follows these formats: Marketing Name: MS-Number: MS-7360 VER:1.0
If the PC is still functional, you can find the model using these methods: Windows System Information: , and look at BaseBoard Product Command Prompt: wmic baseboard get product, manufacturer and press Enter.
Download this free utility; the "Mainboard" tab will list the exact model and manufacturer. Common Boards Often Identified as "N1996"
Because "N1996" was prominent on boards from the mid-2000s, it is frequently associated with the following legacy platforms: Common LGA 775 Era (Intel) Common AM2 Era (AMD) Processor Support Intel Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Duo, Pentium D, Celeron AMD Athlon 64 X2, Athlon 64, Sempron LGA 775 (Socket T) Socket AM2 2 slots for DDR2 RAM (often max 4GB) 2–4 slots for DDR2 RAM (often max 8GB) 1x PCIe x16, 1x PCIe x1, 2x PCI 1x PCIe x16, 1x PCIe x1, 2x PCI 4x SATA, 1x IDE, 1x Floppy (FDD) 4x SATA II, 1x IDE Video/Audio Integrated VGA, 6-channel audio jacks Integrated VGA, 6-channel audio jacks
MSI N1996 Motherboard (LGA 775 Socket) + Backplate - Acer OEM
Identifying the specifications for an MSI N1996 motherboard can be confusing because "N1996" is not actually a model number. Instead, it is an ACA supplier code indicating compliance with Australian EMC standards. Because this code appears on dozens of different MSI products, from old Pentium 4 boards to more modern AM2 and LGA 775 systems, the "specifications" depend entirely on the actual model hidden beneath that label. Common Motherboard Variants Labeled "N1996" msi n1996 motherboard specifications
Since "N1996" was used across multiple generations, you likely have one of the following common legacy boards:
Intel Pentium and Celeron (2.53 GHz max) • Processor FSB ... - Facebook
The MSI N1996 is not a specific motherboard model, but rather a regulatory ACA supplier code that appears on nearly all MSI motherboards, video cards, and optical drives to signify they can be legally sold in Australia.
Because this mark appears on hundreds of different products spanning decades, there is no single set of "N1996 specifications." However, the label is most commonly associated with several legacy MSI-manufactured boards often found in OEM desktops (like Acer or HP) from the mid-2000s. Common Variations of "N1996" Motherboards
If you see "N1996" on your board, it is likely one of the following legacy models:
Socket LGA 775 (Intel-based): Often the MS-7275 or 945GM4-FI. CPU: Supports Intel Core 2 Duo, Pentium D, or Celeron D. RAM: Typically 2–4 slots for DDR2 memory. Slots: 1x PCIe x16, 1x PCIe x1, and 2x PCI slots. Socket AM2 (AMD-based): Often the K9AGM2 or L-A690. CPU: Supports AMD Athlon 64 X2, Athlon 64, or Sempron. RAM: Usually 2 slots for DDR2 800/667 MHz.
Storage: 2–4 SATA ports and 1 Ultra DMA 133/100 IDE connector. Typical Onboard Features The marking is not actually a model number
Most older motherboards with this marking share these general characteristics:
Form Factor: Usually Micro-ATX (M-ATX), designed for compact desktop cases.
Graphics: Integrated VGA port (e.g., Intel GMA or SiS Mirage).
Audio/LAN: Realtek 6-channel audio and 10/100 Mbps Ethernet.
Rear I/O: 4x USB 2.0 ports, 1x Parallel port (LPT), 1x Serial port (COM), and PS/2 keyboard/mouse ports. How to Find Your Actual Specs
To find the specific specifications for your board, you must look for the true model number printed elsewhere on the PCB. It usually starts with "MS-" followed by four digits (e.g., MS-7388 or MS-7236). This real model name is typically found between the PCI slots or near the RAM bank. Specification K9NGM3-FD - MSI
MSI Official Website: The first place to check would be MSI's official website. They have an archive of older products, but navigating through it might require patience. Use their search function or product categories to narrow down your search. Steps to Find Specifications:
Online Databases and Forums: Websites like Tom's Hardware, TechPowerUp, or forums like Reddit's r/buildapc and r/computertech can be invaluable. Users and tech enthusiasts often share detailed specs and experiences with various hardware.
Manuals and Documentation: Sometimes, product manuals or datasheets are available online. These documents usually contain detailed specifications. You can search for your motherboard model along with terms like "manual" or "datasheet."
Second-hand Marketplaces: eBay, Craigslist, or local second-hand shops might have listings for this motherboard. Sellers often provide specs in the description.
The MSI N1996 is a legacy motherboard produced by Micro-Star International (MSI), primarily found in pre-built OEM systems such as Medion desktops (e.g., Medion MD 8389) and early 2000s workstations. It is not a standard retail board but an OEM-specific design. The N1996 is based on the Intel 945G or 945P chipset, targeting Intel’s LGA775 platform.
No, for daily driving. Even a low-end $50 used office PC from 2015 (e.g., with an Intel i3-4130) will be 300% faster and use a fraction of the power.
Yes, for specific hobbies: