Asrock 890GX Extreme4 R2.0 Quick Installation Guide

Copyright Notice:

No part of this installation guide may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, or trans­lated in any language, in any form or by any means, except duplication of documentation
by the purchaser for backup purpose, without written consent of ASRock Inc.
Products and corporate names appearing in this guide may or may not be registered
trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identifi ca-
tion or explanation and to the owners’ benefi t, without intent to infringe.

Disclaimer:

Specifi cations and information contained in this guide are furnished for informational use
only and subject to change without notice, and should not be constructed as a commit­ment by ASRock. ASRock assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions that may
appear in this guide.
With respect to the contents of this guide, ASRock does not provide warranty of any kind,
either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties or condi­tions of merchantability or fi tness for a particular purpose. In no event shall ASRock, its
directors, offi cers, employees, or agents be liable for any indirect, special, incidental, or
consequential damages (including damages for loss of profi ts, loss of business, loss of
data, interruption of business and the like), even if ASRock has been advised of the pos­sibility of such damages arising from any defect or error in the guide or product.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that

may cause undesired operation.

CALIFORNIA, USA ONLY

The Lithium battery adopted on this motherboard contains Perchlorate, a toxic substance
controlled in Perchlorate Best Management Practices (BMP) regulations passed by the
California Legislature. When you discard the Lithium battery in California, USA, please
follow the related regulations in advance.
“Perchlorate Material-special handling may apply, see
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate”

The terms HDMI™ and HDMI High-Defi nition Multimedia Interface, and the HDMI logo
are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and
other countries.

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1

Motherboard LayoutMotherboard Layout

Motherboard Layout

Motherboard LayoutMotherboard Layout

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2

22

2

1

24.4cm (9.6-in)

Keyboard

PS2

USB2.0
T:USB4

PWR_FAN1

B:USB5

VGA1

DVI_CON1

ATX12V1

43 5

6

7

8

CPU_FAN2

CPU_FAN1

SOCKET AM3b

HDMI1

Clr

CMOS

IEEE1394

eSATA3

USB2.0
T:U SB 2
B:USB3

RJ-45LAN

LAN

USB3.0

PHY

T:USB0
B:USB1

43

42

41

40

39

38
37

36

35

Top:

CTR BASS

Center:

REAR SPK

Bottom:

Optical

SPDIF

Bottom:

MIC IN

Top:

LINE IN

Center:

FRONT

USB 3.0

ErP/EuP Ready

Designed inTaipei

Super

I/O

AUDIO
CODEC

HD_AUDIO1

1

1

HDMI_SPDIF1

34

33

CHA_FAN3

CHA_FAN2

PCIE1

890GX Extreme4

RoHS

Sideport memory128MB

COM1

USB6_7

IR1

1

1

1

31

32

PCIE2

PCI1

PCIE3

PCI2

SATA36Gb/s

PCIE4

PCI3

USB8_91USB10_11

AMD

890GX

Chipset

PWRBTN

1

282930

CMOS

BATTERY

Front USB3.0

32Mb
BIOS

RSTBTN

252627

1 Power Fan Connector (PWR_FAN1) 22 Dr. Debug (LED)
2 ATX 12V Power Connector (A TX12V1) 23 USB 3.0 Header (USB3_2_3, Light Blue)
3 CPU Heatsink Retention Module 24 Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1)
4 AM3+ CPU Socket 25 SPI Flash Memory (32Mb)
5 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1) 26 Reset Switch (RSTBTN)
6 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN2) 27 Power Switch (PWRB TN)
7 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots 28 USB 2.0 Header (USB10_11, Blue)

(Dual Channel A: DDR3_A1, DDR3_B1; Blue) 29 USB 2.0 Header (USB8_9, Blue)

8 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots 30 USB 2.0 Header (USB6_7, Blue)

(Dual Channel B: DDR3_A2, DDR3_B2; White) 31 Serial Port Connector (COM1)
9 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1) 32 Infrared Module Header (IR1)
10 A TX Power Connector (ATXPWR1) 33 HDMI_SPDIF Header (HDMI_SPDIF1, White)
11 Northbridge Controller 34 Front Panel Audio Header
12 Southbridge Controller (HD_AUDIO1, White)
13 Chassis Speaker Header (SPEAKER 1, White) 35 PCI Slot (PCI3)
14 Power LED Header (PLED1) 36 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE4; Blue)
15 System Panel Header (PANEL1, White) 37 PCI Slot (PCI2)
16 SATA3 Connector (SA TA4 (PORT 3), White) 38 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE3; Blue)
17 SATA3 Connector (SA TA5 (PORT 4), White) 39 PCI Slot (PCI1)
18 SATA3 Connector (SA TA2 (PORT 1), White) 40 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE2; Blue)
19 SATA3 Connector (SA TA1 (PORT 0), White) 41 PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slot (PCIE1; White)
20 SATA3 Connector (SA TA3 (PORT 2), White) 42 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN2)
21 Front Panel IEEE 1394 Header 43 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN3)

(FRONT_1394, White)

FSB800

FSB800

9

CHA_FAN1

DDR3_A2(64 bit, 240-pinmodule)

DDR3_B2(64 bit, 240-pinmodule)

DDR3_A1(64 bit, 240-pinmodule)

Phenom II AM3+ Support 8-CoreCPU

DDR3 1866 H T3.0 FSB2.6GHz

DDR3_B1(64 bit, 240-pinmodule)

Dual Channel DX10.1 140W CPU

10

11

30.5cm (12.0-in)

12

AMD

SB850

Chipset

CLRCMOS1

Dr.

1

Debug

USB3_2_3

23

22

24

SPEAKER1

1

13

PLED1

1394a

1

14

PANEL1

PLEDPWRBTN

1

15

HDLED RESET

16

SATA3(PORT2)

SATA4(PORT3)

SATA5(PORT4)

FRONT_1394

SATA1(PORT0)

SATA2(PORT1)

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ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

I/O PI/O P

I/O P

I/O PI/O P

* 4 LAN RJ-45 Port *** 13 e SAT A3 Connector

** 9 Front Speaker (Lime)

* There are two LED next to the LAN port. Please refer to the table below for the LAN port LED
indications.

** If you use 2-channel speaker, please connect the speaker’s plug into “Front Speaker Jack”.

See the table below for connection details in accordance with the type of speaker you use.

anelanel

anel

anelanel

1 USB 2.0 Ports (USB45) 10 Microphone (Pink)
2 VGA/D-Sub Port 11 USB 3.0 Port (USB01)
3 USB 2.0 Ports (USB23) 12 IEEE 1394 Port (IEEE 1394)

5 Central / Bass (Orange) 14 Clear CMOS Switch (CLRCBTN)
6 Rear Speaker (Black) 15 V GA/HDMI Port
7 Optical SPDIF Out Port 16 VGA/DVI-D Port
8 Line In (Light Blue) 17 PS/2 Keyboard Port (Purple)

Activity/Link LED SPEED LED

Status Description Status Description

Off No Link Off 10Mbps connection
Blinking Data Activity Orange 100Mbps connection
On Link Green 1Gbps connection

Audio Output Channels Front Speaker Rear Speaker Central / Bass Line In

2 V -- -- -­4VV---­6 VVV-­8 VVVV

LAN Port LED Indications

TABLE for Audio Output Connection

(No. 9) (No. 6) (No. 5) or

Side Speaker

ACT/LINK
LED

LAN Port

SPEED
LED

(No. 8)

To enable Multi-Streaming function, you need to connect a front panel audio cable to the front

panel audio header. After restarting your computer, you will find “Mixer” tool on your system.
Please select “Mixer ToolBox” , click “Enable playback multi-streaming”, and click

“ok”. Choose “2CH”, “4CH”, “6CH”, or “8CH” and then you are allowed to select “Realtek HDA
Primary output” to use Rear Speaker, Central/Bass, and Front Speaker, or select “Realtek
HDA Audio 2nd output” to use front panel audio.

*** eSATA3 connector supports SATA Gen3 in cable 1M.

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

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1.1.

IntroductionIntroduction

1.

Introduction

1.1.

IntroductionIntroduction

Thank you for purchasing ASRock 890GX Extreme4 motherboard, a reliable
motherboard produced under ASRock’s consistently stringent quality control. It de­livers excellent performance with robust design conforming to ASRock’s commit­ment to quality and endurance.
In this manual, cha pter 1 a nd 2 contain introduction of the motherboard a nd step-by-step
guide to the hardware installation. Chapter 3 and 4 contain the configuration guide to
BIOS setup and information of the Support CD.

Because the motherboard specifications and the BIOS software might
be updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without
notice. In case any modifications of this manual occur, the updated
version will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You
may find the latest VGA cards and CPU support lists on ASRock website
as well. ASRock website http://www.asrock.com
If you require technical support related to this motherboard, please visit
our website for specific information about the model you are using.

www.asrock.com/support/index.asp

1.11.1

Package ContentsPackage Contents

1.1

Package Contents

1.11.1

Package ContentsPackage Contents

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

(ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Quick Installation Guide
ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Support CD
4 x Serial ATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional)
2 x Serial ATA (SATA) HDD Power Cables (Optional)
1 x I/O Panel Shield
1 x Front USB 3.0 Panel
4 x HDD Screws
6 x Chassis Screws

1 x Rear USB 3.0 Bracket

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ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

1.21.2

SpecificationsSpecifications

1.2

Specifications

1.21.2

SpecificationsSpecifications

Platform - ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm

- All Solid Capacitor design (100% Japan-made high-quality
Conductive Polymer Capacitors)

CPU - Support for Socket AM3+ processors

- Support for Socket AM3 processors: AMD PhenomTM II X6 /
X4 / X3 / X2 (except 920 / 940) / Athlon II X4 / X3 / X2 /
Sempron processors

- Supports 8-Core CPU

- Supports UCC feature (Unlock CPU Core) (see CAUTION 1)

- Advanced V8 + 2 Power Phase Design

- Supports CPU up to 140W

- Supports AMD’s Cool ‘n’ QuietTM Technology

- FSB 2600 MHz (5.2 GT/s)

- Supports Untied Overclocking Technology (see CAUTION 2)

- Supports Hyper-Transport 3.0 (HT 3.0) Technology

Chipset - Northbridge: AMD 890GX

- Southbridge: AMD SB850

Memory - Dual Channel DDR3 Memory Technology (see CAUTION 3)

- 4 x DDR3 DIMM slots

- Support DDR3 1866(OC)/1800(OC)/1600(OC)/1333/1066/800
non-ECC, un-buffered memory (see CAUTION 4)

- Max. capacity of system memory: 32GB (see CAUTION 5)

Expansion Slot - 3 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot (PCIE2/PCIE3: single at x16 or

dual at x8/x8 mode; PCIE4: x4 mode)

- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot

- 3 x PCI slots

- Supports ATITM Quad CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM,
CrossFireXTM and Hybrid CrossFireX

Graphics - Integrated AMD Radeon HD 4290 graphics

- D X10.1 class iGPU, Shader Model 4.1

- Max. shared memory 512MB (see CAUTION 6)

- Built-in 128MB DDR3 1333/1200MHz SidePort Memory

- Three VGA Output options: D-Sub, DVI-D and HDMI

- Supports HDMI Technology with max. resolution up to
1920x1200 (1080P)

- Supports Dual-link DVI with max. resolution up to 2560x1600
@ 75Hz

- Supports D-Sub with max. resolution up to 2048x1536
@ 85Hz

TM

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- Supports HDCP function with DVI and HDMI ports

- Supports Full HD 1080p Blu-ray (BD) / HD-DVD playback
with DVI and HDMI ports

Audio - 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection

(Realtek ALC892 Audio Codec)

- Premium Blu-ray audio support

- Supports THX TruStudio Pro

LAN - PCIE x1 Giga bit LAN 10/100/1000 Mb/s

- Atheros® AR8151

- Supports Wake-On-LAN

Rear Panel I/O I/O Panel

- 1 x PS/2 Keyboard Port

- 1 x VGA/D-Sub Port

- 1 x VGA/DVI-D Port

- 1 x HDMI Port

- 1 x Optical SPDIF Out Port

- 4 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports

- 1 x eSATA3 Connector

- 2 x Ready-to-Use USB 3.0 Ports

- 1 x RJ-45 LAN Port with LED (ACT/LINK LED and SPEED LED)

- 1 x IEEE 1394 Port

- 1 x Clear CMOS Switch with LED

- HD Audio Jack: Rear Speaker/Central/Bass/Line in/
Front Speaker/Microphone (see CAUTION 7)

SATA3 - 5 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0,

RAID 1, RAID 0+1 and RAID 5), NCQ, AHCI a nd "Hot Plug"
functions

USB 3.0 - 2 x Rear USB 3.0 ports by Etron EJ168A, support

USB 1.0/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s

- 1 x Front USB 3.0 header (supports 2 USB 3.0 ports) by
Etron EJ168A, supports USB 1.0/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s

Connector - 5 x SATA3 6.0Gb/s connectors

- 1 x IR header

- 1 x COM port header

- 1 x IEEE 1394 header

- 1 x HDMI_SPDIF header

- 1 x Power LED header

- CPU/Chassis/Power FAN connector

- 24 pin ATX power connector

- 8 pin 12V power connector

- Front panel audio connector

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ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

- 3 x USB 2.0 headers (support 6 USB 2.0 ports)

- 1 x USB 3.0 header (supports 2 USB 3.0 ports)

- 1 x Dr . Debug (7-Segment Debug LED)

Smart Switch - 1 x Clear CMOS Switch with LED

- 1 x Power Switch with LED

- 1 x Reset Switch with LED

BIOS Feature - 32Mb AMI UEFI Legal BIOS with GUI support

- Supports “Plug and Play”

- ACPI 1.1 Compliance Wake Up Events

- Supports jumperfree

- SMBIOS 2.3.1 Support

- CPU, VCCM, NB, SB Voltage Multi-adjustment

Support CD - Drivers, Utilities, AntiVirus Software (T rial Version)
Unique Feature - ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU) (see CAUTION 8)

- ASRock Instant Boot

- ASRock Instant Flash (see CAUTION 9)

- ASRock A PP Charger (see CAUTION 10)

- ASRock XFast USB (see CAUTION 11)

- Hybrid Booster:

- CPU Frequency Stepless Control (see CAUTION 12)

- ASRock U-COP (see CAUTION 13)

- Boot Failure Guard (B.F.G.)

- Turbo 25 / T urbo 30 GPU Overclocking

- Turbo UCC
Hardware - CPU Temperature Sen sing
Monitor - Chassis Temperature Sensing

- CPU/Chassis/Power Fa n Tachometer

- CPU Quiet Fan

- CPU/Chassis Fa n Multi-Speed Control

- Voltage Monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3.3V, Vcore
OS - Microsoft® Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / Vista

/ XP / XP 64-bit complia nt

Certifications - FCC, CE, WHQL

- ErP/EuP Ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required)

(see CAUTION 14)

* For detailed product information, please visit our website: http://www.asrock.com

TM

/ VistaTM 64-bit

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WARNING

Please realize that there is a certain risk involved with overclocking, including adjusting
the setting in the BIOS, applying Untied Overclocking Technology, or using the third­party overclocking tools. Overclocking may affect your system stability, or even
cause damage to the components and devices of your system. It should be done at
your own risk and expense. We are not responsible for possible damage caused by
overclocking.

CAUTION!

1. ASRock UCC (Unlock CPU Core) feature simplifies AMD CPU activation. As
long as a simple switch of the UEFI option “ASRock UCC”, you can unlock
the extra CPU core to enjoy an instant performance boost. When UCC
feature is enabled, the dual-core or triple-core CPU will boost to the quad­core CPU, and some CPU, including quad-core CPU, can also increase L3
cache size up to 6MB, which means you can enjoy the upgrade CPU perfor­mance with a better price. Please be noted that UCC feature is supported
with AM3/AM3+ CPU only, and in addition, not every AM3/AM3+ CPU can
support this function because some CPU’s hidden core may be
malfunctioned.

2. This motherboard supports Untied Overclocking Technology. Please read
“Untied Overclocking Technology” on page 39 for details.

3. This motherboard supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. Before
you implement Dual Channel Memory Technology, make sure to read
the installation guide of memory modules on page 13 for proper
installation.

4. Whether 1866/1800/1600MHz memory speed is supported depends
on the AM3/AM3+ CPU you adopt. If you want to adopt DDR3 1866/1800/
1600 memory module on this motherboard, please refer to the memory
support list on our website for the compatible memory modules.
ASRock website http://www.asrock.com

5. Due to the operating system limitation, the actual memory size may be
less than 4GB for the reservation for system usage under Windows® 7
/ VistaTM / XP. For Windows® OS with 64-bit CPU, there is no such
limitation.

6. The maximum shared memory size is defined by the chipset vendor
and is subject to change. Please check AMD website for the latest
information.

7. For microphone input, this motherboard supports both stereo and mono
modes. For audio output, this motherboard supports 2-channel, 4-channel,
6-channel, and 8-channel modes. Please check the table on page 3 for
proper connection.

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ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

8. ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU) is an all-in-one tool to ne-tune
different system functions in a user-friendly interface, which is including
Hardware Monitor, Fan Control, Overclocking, OC DNA and IES. In Hard­ware Monitor, it shows the major readings of your system. In Fan Control,
it shows the fan speed and temperature for you to adjust. In Overclocking,
you are allowed to overclock CPU frequency for optimal system
performance. In OC DNA, you can save your OC settings as a profile and
share with your friends. Your friends then can load the OC profile to their
own system to get the same OC settings. In IES (Intelligent Energy
Saver), the voltage regulator can reduce the number of output phases to
improve efficiency when the CPU cores are idle without sacrificing
computing performance. Please visit our website for the operation pro­cedures of ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU).
ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com

9. ASRock Instant Flash is a BIOS flash utility embedded in Flash ROM.
This convenient BIOS update tool allows you to update system BIOS
without entering operating systems first like MS-DOS or Windows®.
With this utility, you can press <F6> key during the POST or press <F2>
key to BIOS setup menu to access ASRock Instant Flash. Just launch
this tool and save the new BIOS file to your USB flash drive, floppy disk
or hard drive, then you can update your BIOS only in a few clicks without
preparing an additional floppy diskette or other complicated flash utility.
Please be noted that the USB flash drive or hard drive must use FAT32/
16/12 file system.

10. If you desire a faster, less restricted way of charging your Apple devices,
such as iPhone/iPod/iPad Touch, ASRock has prepared a wonderful
solution for you - ASRock APP Charger. Si mply installing the APP Charger
driver, it makes your iPhone charged much quickly from your computer
and up to 40% faster than before. ASRock APP Charger allows you to
quickly charge many Apple devices simultaneously and even supports
continuous charging when your PC enters into Standby mode (S1),
Suspend to RAM (S3), hibernation mode (S4) or power off (S5). With
APP Charger driver installed, you can easily enjoy the marvelous charg­ing experience than ever.
ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com/Feature/AppCharger/index.asp

11. ASRock XFast USB can boost USB storage device performance. The
performance may depend on the property of the device.

12. Although this motherboard offers stepless control, it is not recom­mended to perform over-clocking. Frequencies other than the recom­mended CPU bus frequencies may cause the instability of the system
or damage the CPU.

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13. While CPU overheat is detected, the system will automatically shutdown.

Before you resume the system, please check if the CPU fan on the
motherboard functions properly and unplug the power cord, then plug it
back again. To improve heat dissipation, remember to spray thermal
grease between the CPU and the heatsink when you install the PC
system.

14. EuP, stands for Energy Using Product, was a provision regulated by

European Union to define the power consumption for the completed
system. According to EuP, the total AC power of the completed system
shall be under 1.00W in off mode condition. To meet EuP standard, an
EuP ready motherboard and an EuP ready power supply are required.
According to Intel’s suggestion, the EuP ready power supply must meet
the standard of 5v standby power efficiency is higher than 50% under
100 mA current consumption. For EuP ready power supply selection,
we recommend you checking with the power supply manufacturer for
more details.

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ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

2.2.

InstallationInstallation

2.

Installation

2.2.

InstallationInstallation

This is an ATX form factor (12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm) motherboard.
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to en­sure that the motherboard fits into it.

Pre-installation PrecautionsPre-installation Precautions

Pre-installation Precautions

Pre-installation PrecautionsPre-installation Precautions

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard
components or change any motherboard settings.

Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the
power is switched off or the power cord is detached from the
power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the
motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.

1. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.

2. To avoid damaging the motherboard components due to static
electricity, NEVER place your motherboard directly on the carpet or
the like. Also remember to use a grounded wrist strap or touch a
safety grounded object before you handle components.

3. Hold components by the edges and do not touch the ICs.

4. Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded anti­static pad or in the bag that comes with the component.

5. When placing screws into the screw holes to se cure the motherboard
to the chassis, please do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may
damage the motherboard.

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

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2.12.1

CPU InstallationCPU Installation

2.1

CPU Installation

2.12.1

CPU InstallationCPU Installation

Step 1. Unlock the socket by lifting the lever up to a 90

o

angle.

Step 2. Position the CPU directly above the socket such that the CPU corner with

the golden triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle.

Step 3. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.

The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU
into the socket to avoid bending of the pins.

Step 4. When the CPU is in place, press it firmly on the socket while you push

down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab
to indicate that it is locked.

Lever 90° Up

CPU Golden Triangle

Socker Corner
Small Triangle

STEP 1:
Lift Up The Socket Lever

2.22.2

Installation of CPU Fan and HeatsinkInstallation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

2.2

Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

2.22.2

Installation of CPU Fan and HeatsinkInstallation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

STEP 2 / STEP 3:
Match The CPU Golden Triangle
To The Socket Corner Small
Triangle

STEP 4:
Push Down And Lock
The Socket Lever

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After you install the CPU into this motherboard, it is necessary to install a
larger heatsink and cooling fan to dissipate heat. You also need to spray
thermal grease between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat
dissipation. Make sure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fas­tened and in good contact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to
the CPU FAN connector (CPU_F AN1, see Page 2, No. 5 or CPU_F AN2, see
Page 2, No. 6). For proper installation, please kindly refer to the instruc­tion manuals of the CPU fan and the heatsink.

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)

2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)

2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)

This motherboard provides four 240-pin DDR3 (Double Data Rate 3) DIMM slots,
and supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. For dual channel configuration,
you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size and chip­type) DDR3 DIMM pair in the slots of the same color. In other words, you have to
install identical DDR3 DIMM pair in Dual Channel A (DD R3_A1 and DDR3_B1;
Blue slots; see p.2 No.7) or identical DDR3 DIMM pair in Dual Channel B
(DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2; White slots; see p.2 No.8), so that Dual Channel
Memory Technology can be activated. This motherboard also allows you to
install four DDR3 DIMMs for dual channel configuration, and please install iden-
tical DDR3 DIMMs in all four slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel Memory
Configuration Table below.

Dual Channel Memory Configurations

DDR3_A1 DDR3_A2 DDR3_B1 DDR3_B2

(Blue Slot) (White Slot) (Blue Slot) (White Slot)
(1) Populated - Populated ­(2) - Populated - Populated
(3)* Populated Populated Populated Populated

*For the configuration (3), please install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four

slots.

1. If you want to install two memory modules, for optimal compatibility
and reliability, it is recommended to install them in the slots of the
same color. In other words, install them either in the set of blue slots
(DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1), or in the set of white slots (DDR3_A2
and DDR3_B2).

2. If only one memory module or three memory modules are installed
in the DDR3 DIMM slots on this motherboard, it is unable to activate
the Dual Channel Memory Technology.

3. If a pair of memory modules is NOT installed in the same Dual
Channel, for example, installing a pair of memory modules in
DDR3_A1 and DDR3_A2, it is unable to activate the Dual Channel
Memory Technology .

4. It is not allowed to install a DDR or DDR2 memory module into
DDR3 slot; otherwise, this motherboard and DIMM may be damaged.

5. If you adopt DDR3 1866/1800/1600 memory modules on this
motherboard, it is recommended to install them on DDR3_A2 and
DDR3_B2 slots.

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Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMM

Installing a DIMM

Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMM

Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or
removing DIMMs or the system components.

Step 1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.
Step 2. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break

on the slot.

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The DIMM only fits in one correct orientation. It will cause permanent
damage to the motherboard and the DIMM if you force the DIMM into the
slot at incorrect orientation.

Step 3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends fully

snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)

2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)

2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)

There are 3 PCI slots and 4 PCI Express slots on this motherboard.
PCI Slots: PCI slots are used to install expansion cards that have the 32-bit PCI

interface.

PCIE Slots:

PCIE1 (PCIE x1 slot; White) is used for PCI Express cards with x1 lane
width cards, such as Gigabit LAN card and SATA2 card.
PCIE2 / PCIE3 (PCIE x16 slot; Blue) is used for PCI Express x16 lane
width graphics cards, or used to install PCI Express graphics cards to
support CrossFireXTM function.
PCIE4 (PCIE x16 slot; Blue) is used for PCI Express x4 lane width
cards, or used to install PCI Express graphics cards to support 3-Way
CrossFireXTM function.

1. In single VGA card mode, it is recommended to install a PCI Express
x16 graphics card on PCIE2 slot.

2. In CrossFireXTM mode, please install PCI Express x16 graphics cards
on PCIE2 and PCIE3 slots. Therefore, both these two slots will work at
x8 bandwidth.

3. In 3-Way CrossFireXTM mode, please install PCI Express x16 graphics
cards on PCIE2, PCIE3 and PCIE4 slots. Therefore, PCIE2 and PCIE3
slots will work at x8 bandwidth while PCIE4 slot will work at x4 bandwidth.

4. Please connect a chassis fan to motherboard chassis fan connector
(CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2 or CHA_FAN3) when using multiple
graphics cards for better thermal environment.

5. PCIE1 slot is shared with PCIE4 slot. If you use PCIE1 slot, PCIE4
slot will work at x1 bandwidth. If you use PCIE4 slot, PCIE1 slot will be
disabled.

Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card

Installing an expansion card

Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card

Step 1. Before installing the expansion card, please make sure that the power

supply is switched off or the power cord is unplugged. Please read the
documentation of the expansion card and make necessary hardware
settings for the card before you start the installation.

Step 2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in

a chassis).

Step 3. Remove the bracket facing the slot that you intend to use. Keep the

screws for later use.

Step 4. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is

completely seated on the slot.
Step 5. Fasten the card to the chassis with screws.
Step 6. Replace the system cover.

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2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features

2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features

2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features

Dual Monitor Feature

This motherboard supports dual monitor feature. With the internal VGA output
support (DVI-D, D-Sub and HDMI), you can easily enjoy the benefits of dual monitor
feature without installing any add-on VGA card to this motherboard. This
motherboard also provides independent display controllers for DVI-D, D-Sub and
HDMI to support dual VGA output so that DVI-D, D-sub and HDMI can drive same or
different display contents.
To enable dual monitor feature, please follow the below steps:

1. Connect DVI-D monitor cable to VGA/DVI-D port on the I/O panel, connect D-Sub
monitor cable to VGA/D-Sub port on the I/O panel, or connect HDMI monitor
cable to HDMI port on the I/O panel.

VGA/D-Sub port

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VGA/DVI-D port

2. If you have installed onboard VGA driver from our support CD to your system
already, you can freely enjoy the benefits of dual monitor function after your
system boots. If you haven’t installed onboard VGA driver yet, please install
onboard VGA driver from our support CD to your system and restart your
computer. Then you can start to use dual monitor function on this motherboard.

1. DVI-D and HDMI ports cannot function at the same time. When one of
them is enabled, the other one will be disabled.

2. When you playback HDCP-protected video from Blu-ray (BD) or
HD-DVD disc, the content will be displayed only in one of the two
monitors instead of both monitors.

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

HDMI port

Surround Display Feature

This motherboard supports surround display upgrade. With the internal VGA
output support (DVI-D, D-Sub and HDMI) and external add-on PCI Express VGA
cards, you can easily enjoy the benefits of surround display feature.
Please refer to the following steps to set up a surround display environment:

1. Install the ATITM PCI Express V GA cards on PCIE2, PCIE3 a nd PCIE4 slots. Please
refer to page 15 for proper expansion card installation procedures for details.

2. Connect DVI-D monitor cable to VGA/DVI-D port on the I/O panel, connect D-Sub
monitor cable to VGA/D-Sub port on the I/O panel, or connect HDMI monitor
cable to HDMI port on the I/O panel. Then connect other monitor cables to the
corresponding connectors of the add-on PCI Express VGA cards on PCIE2,
PCIE3 and PCIE4 slots.

3. Boot your system. Press <F2> to enter UEFI setup. Enter “Share Memory”
option to adjust the memory capability to [32MB], [64MB], [128MB] [256MB] or
[512MB] to enable the function of VGA/D-sub. Please make sure that the value
you select is less than the total capability of the system memory. If you do not
adjust the UEFI setup, the default value of “Share Memory”, [Auto], will disable
VGA/D-Sub function when the add-on VGA card is inserted to this
motherboard.

4. Install the onboard VGA driver and the add-on PCI Express VGA card driver to
your system. If you have installed the drivers already, there is no need to install
them again.

5. Set up a multi-monitor display.

For Windows® XP / XP 64-bit OS:

Right click the desktop, choose “Properties”, and select the “Settings” tab
so that you can adjust the parameters of the multi-monitor according to the
steps below.
A. Click the “Identify” button to display a large number on each monitor.
B. Right-click the display icon in the Display Properties dialog that you wish
to be your primary monitor, and then select “Primary”. When you use
multiple monitors with your card, one monitor will always be Primary,
and all additional monitors will be designated as Secondary.
C. Select the display icon identified by the number 2.
D. Click “Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor”.
E. Right-click the display icon and select “Attached”, if necessary.
F. Set the “Screen Resolution” and “Color Quality” as appropriate for the
second monitor. Click “Apply” or “OK” to apply these new values.
G. Repeat steps C through E for the diaplay icon identified by the number
one, two, three, four, five, six, seven and eight.

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For Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS:

Right click the desktop, choose “Personalize”, and select the “Display
Settings” tab so that you can adjust the parameters of the multi-monitor
according to the steps below.
A. Click the number ”2” icon.
B. Click the items “This is my main monitor” and “Extend the desktop onto
this monitor”.
C. Click “OK” to save your change.
D. Repeat steps A through C for the display icon identified by the number
three, four, five, six, seven and eight.

6. Use Surround Display. Click and drag the display icons to positions representing
the physical setup of your monitors that you would like to use. The placement
of display icons determines how you move items from one monitor to another.

HDCP Function

HDCP function is supported on this motherboard. To use HDCP
function with this motherboard, you need to adopt the monitor that
supports HDCP function as well. Therefore, you can enjoy the
superior display quality with high-definition HDCP encryption
contents. Please refer to below instruction for more details about
HDCP function.

What is HDCP?

HDCP stands for High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection, a
specification developed by Intel® for protecting digital entertainment
content that uses the DVI interface. HDCP is a copy protection
scheme to eliminate the possibility of intercepting digital data
midstream between the video source, or transmitter - such as a
computer, DVD player or set-top box - and the digital display, or
receiver - such as a monitor, television or projector. In other words,
HDCP specification is designed to protect the integrity of content as it
is being transmitted.

Products compatible with the HDCP scheme such as DVD players,
satellite and cable HDTV set-top-boxes, as well as few entertain­ment PCs requires a secure connection to a compliant display. Due
to the increase in manufacturers employing HDCP in their equipment,
it is highly recommended that the HDTV or LCD monitor you purchase
is compatible.

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TMTM

TM

2.62.6

CrossFCrossF

2.6

CrossF

2.62.6

CrossFCrossF
CrossFireXCrossFireX

CrossFireX

CrossFireXCrossFireX

This motherboard supports CrossFireXTM, 3-way CrossFireX
CrossFireXTM feature. CrossFireXTM technology offers the most advantageous means
available of combining multiple high performance Graphics Processing Units (GPU) in
a single PC. Combining a range of different operating modes with intelligent software
design and an innovative interconnect mechanism, CrossFireXTM enables the highest
possible level of performance and image quality in any 3D application. Currently
CrossFireXTM feature is supported with Windows® XP with Service Pack 2 / Vista
/ 7 OS. 3-way CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireX
Windows® VistaTM / 7 OS only.

1. If a customer incorrectly configures their system they will not see the
performance benefits of CrossFireXTM. All three CrossFireXTM components, a
CrossFireXTM Ready graphics card, a CrossFireXTM Ready motherboard and a
CrossFireXTM Edition co-processor graphics card, must be installed correctly to
benefit from the CrossFireXTM multi-GPU platform.

2. If you pair a 12-pipe CrossFireXTM Edition card with a 16-pipe card, both cards
will operate as 12-pipe cards while in CrossFireXTM mode.

2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup

2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup

2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup

2.6.1.1 Installing T2.6.1.1 Installing T

2.6.1.1 Installing T

2.6.1.1 Installing T2.6.1.1 Installing T
Cards Cards

Cards

Cards Cards

Different CrossFireXTM cards may require different methods to enable CrossFireX
feature. In below procedures, we use Radeon HD 3870 as the example graphics card.
For other CrossFireXTM cards that ATITM has released or will relea se in the future, please
refer to ATITM graphics card manuals for detailed installation guide.

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Step 1. Insert one Radeon graphics card into PCIE2 slot and the other Radeon

graphics card to PCIE3 slot. Make sure that the cards are properly seated
on the slots.

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Step 2. Connect two Radeon graphics cards by installing CrossFire Bridge on

CrossFire Bridge Interconnects on the top of Radeon graphics cards.
(CrossFire Bridge is provided with the graphics card you purchase, not
bundled with this motherboard. Please refer to your graphics card vendor
for details.)

CrossFire Bridge

or

Step 3. Connect the DVI monitor cable to the D VI conne ctor on the Ra deon graphics

card on PCIE2 slot. (You may use the DVI to D-Sub adapter to convert the
DVI connector to D-Sub interface, and then connect the D-Sub monitor
cable to the DVI to D-Sub adapter.)

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TMTM

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2.6.1.2 Installing Three CrossFireX2.6.1.2 Installing Three CrossFireX

2.6.1.2 Installing Three CrossFireX

2.6.1.2 Installing Three CrossFireX2.6.1.2 Installing Three CrossFireX
Cards Cards

Cards

Cards Cards

Step 1. Install one Radeon graphics card to PCIE2 slot. For the proper installation

procedures, please refer to section “Expansion Slots”.

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

TMTM

-Ready Graphics-Ready Graphics

-Ready Graphics

-Ready Graphics-Ready Graphics

Step 2. Install one Radeon graphics card to PCIE3 slot. For the proper installation

procedures, please refer to section “Expansion Slots”.

Step 3. Install one Radeon graphics card to PCIE4 slot. For the proper installation

procedures, please refer to section “Expansion Slots”.

Step 4. Use one CrossFireTM Bridge to connect Radeon graphics cards on PCIE2

and PCIE3 slots, and use the other CrossFireTM Bridge to connect Radeon
graphics cards on PCIE3 and PCIE4 slots. (CrossFireTM Bridge is provided
with the graphics card you purchase, not bundled with this motherboard.
Please refer to your graphics card vendor for details.)

CrossFireTM Bridge

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Step 5. Connect the DVI monitor cable to the D VI conne ctor on the Ra deon graphics

card on PCIE2 slot. (You may use the DVI to D-Sub adapter to convert the
DVI connector to D-Sub interface, and then connect the D-Sub monitor
cable to the DVI to D-Sub adapter.)

2.6.2 Driver Installation and Setup2.6.2 Driver Installation and Setup

2.6.2 Driver Installation and Setup

2.6.2 Driver Installation and Setup2.6.2 Driver Installation and Setup

Step 1. Power on your computer and boot into OS.
Step 2. Remove the A TITM driver if you have any VGA driver in stalled in your system.

The Catalyst Uninstaller is an optional download. We recommend using this
utility to uninstall any previously installed Catalyst drivers prior to installation.
Please check AMD website for ATITM driver updates.

Step 3. Install the required drivers to your system.

For Windows® XP OS:

A. ATITM recommends Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or higher to be
installed (If you have Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or higher installed

in your system, there is no need to download it again):

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/default.mspx

B. You must have Microsoft .NET Framework installed prior to
downloading and installing the CATALYST Control Center. Please
check Microsoft website for details.

For Windows® 7 / VistaTM OS:

Install the CA TALYST Control Center . Ple ase check AMD website for details.

Step 4. Restart your computer.
Step 5. Install the VGA card drivers to your system, and restart your computer.

Then you will find “ATI Catalyst Control Center” on your Windows® taskbar.

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ATI Catalyst Control Center

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

Step 6. Double-click “ATI Catalyst Control Center”. Click “View”, select

“CrossFireXTM”, and then check the item “Enable CrossFireXTM”. Select “2
GPUs” and click “Apply” (if you install two Radeon graphics cards). Select
“3 GPUs” and click “OK” (if you install three Radeon graphics cards).

Although you have selected the option “Enable CrossFireTM”, the CrossFireX
function may not work actually. Your computer will automatically reboot. After
restarting your computer, please confirm whether the option “Enable
CrossFireTM” in “ATI Catalyst Control Center” is selected or not; if not, please
select it again, and then you are able to enjoy the benefit of CrossFireX
feature.

TM

Step 7. You can freely enjoy the benefit of CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM or

Quad CrossFireXTM feature.

* CrossFireXTM appearing here is a registered trademark of ATITM Technologies Inc., and is
used only for identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
* For further information of ATITM CrossFireXTM technology, please check AMD website for
updates and details.

TM

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TMTM

TM

2.72.7

2.7

2.72.7

This motherboard supports ATITM Hybrid CrossFireXTM feature. ATITM Hybrid
CrossFireXTM brings multi-GPU performance capabilities by enabling an AMD
890GX integrated graphics processor and a discrete graphics processor to
operate simultaneously with combined output to a single display for blisteringly­fast frame rates. Currently, ATITM Hybrid CrossFireXTM Technology is only
supported with Windows® Vista
OS. In the future, ATITM Hybrid CrossFireXTM may be supported with Windows® XP
OS.

TMTM

AA

TITI

Hybrid CrossF Hybrid CrossF

A

TI

Hybrid CrossF

AA

TITI

Hybrid CrossF Hybrid CrossF

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What does an ATITM Hybrid CrossFireXTM system include?

An ATITM Hybrid CrossFireXTM system includes an ATITM RadeonTM 2400, 3450 or 5450
series graphics processor and a motherboard based on an AMD 890GX integrated
chipset, all operating in a Windows® VistaTM / 7 environment. Please refer to below
PCI Express graphics card support list for ATITM Hybrid CrossFireXTM. For the future
update of more compatible PCI Express graphics cards, please visit our website for
further information.

Vendor Chipset Model Driver

A TI RADEON HD2400XT POWERCOLOR HD2400 XT Support CD 8.70

RADEON HD3450 POWERCOLOR AX3450 Support CD 8.70

RADEON HD5450 ATI RADEON HD5450 1GB Support CD 8.70

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/ 7 OS, and is not available with Windows® XP

256MB DDR3

256MD2-S

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Enjoy the benefit of AEnjoy the benefit of A

Enjoy the benefit of A

Enjoy the benefit of AEnjoy the benefit of A

Step 1. Install one compatible PCI Express graphics card to PCIE2 slot (blue). For

the proper installation procedures, please refer to section “Expan sion Slots”.

Step 2. Connect the monitor cable to the correspondent connector on the PCI

Express graphics card on PCIE2 slot.

Step 3. Boot your system. Press <F2> to enter BIOS setup. Enter “Advanced”

screen, and enter “Chipset Settings”. Then set the option “Surround View”

to [Enabled].

Step 4. Boot into OS. Please remove the ATITM driver if you have any VGA driver

installed in your system.

Step 5. Install the onboard VGA driver from our support CD to your system for both

the onboard VGA and the discrete graphics card.

Step 6. Restart your computer. Then you will find “ATI Catalyst Control Center” on

your Windows® taskbar.

ATI Catalyst Control Center

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

TMTM

TITI

Hybrid CrossF Hybrid CrossF

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Hybrid CrossF

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Hybrid CrossF Hybrid CrossF

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Step 7. Double-click “ATI Catalyst Control Center”. Click “View”, click “CrossFireTM”,

and then select the option “Enable CrossFireTM”.

View

CrossFire

TM

Step 8. Click “Yes” to continue.

Step 9. Click “OK” to save your change.

Enable CrossFire

TM

Step 10. Reboot your system. Then you can freely enjoy the benefit of Hybrid

TM

CrossFireXTM feature.

* Hybrid CrossFireXTM appearing here is a registered trademark of ATITM Technologies Inc.,
and is used only for identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to
infringe.
* For further information of ATITM Hybrid CrossFireXTM technology, please check AMD website
for up dates and details.

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2.82.8

Jumpers SetupJumpers Setup

2.8

Jumpers Setup

2.82.8

Jumpers SetupJumpers Setup

The illustration shows how jumpers are
setup. When the jumper cap is placed on
pins, the jumper is “Short”. If no jumper cap
is placed on pins, the jumper is “Open”. The
illustration shows a 3-pin jumper whose pin1
and pin2 are “Short” when jumper cap is
placed on these 2 pins.

Jumper Setting

Clear CMOS Jumper

(CLRCMOS1)
(see p.2, No. 24)

Note: CLRCMOS1 allows you to clear the data in CMOS. The data in CMOS includes

system setup information such as system password, date, time, and system
setup parameters. To clear and reset the system parameters to default setup,
please turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power
supply. After waiting for 15 seconds, use a jumper cap to short pin2 and pin3
on CLRCMOS1 for 5 seconds. However, please do not clear the CMOS right
after you update the BIOS. If you need to clear the CMOS when you just finish
updating the BIOS, you must boot up the system first, and then shut it down
before you do the clear-CMOS action.

Clear CMOSDefault

OpenShort

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2.9 Onboard Headers and Connectors2.9 Onboard Headers and Connectors

2.9 Onboard Headers and Connectors

2.9 Onboard Headers and Connectors2.9 Onboard Headers and Connectors

Onboard headers and connectors are NOT jumpers. Do NOT place
jumper caps over these headers and connectors. Placing jumper caps
over the headers and connectors will cause permanent damage of the
motherboard!

Serial A TA3 Connectors These five Seri al ATA3

(SAT A1 (POR T 0): see p.2, No. 19) (SATA3) connectors support
(SAT A2 (POR T 1): see p.2, No. 18) SATA data cables for internal
(SAT A3 (POR T 2): see p.2, No. 20) storage devices. The current
(SAT A4 (POR T 3): see p.2, No. 16) SATA3 interface allows up to
(SAT A5 (POR T 4): see p.2, No. 17) 6.0 Gb/s data transfer rate.

SAT A1 (POR T 0)

SAT A2 (POR T 1)

SAT A3 (POR T 2)

SAT A4 (POR T 3)

SAT A5 (POR T 4)

Serial A TA (SA T A ) Either end of the SATA data cable
Data Cable can be connected to the SATA3

(Optional) hard disk or the SATA3

connector on this motherboard.

Serial ATA (SATA) Please connect the black end of
Power Cable SATA power cable to the power

(Optional) connector on each drive. Then

connect to the SAT A

HDD power connector

connect to the
power supply

connect the white end of SATA
power cable to the power
connector of the power supply.

USB 2.0 Headers Besides four default USB 2.0

(9-pin USB6_7) ports on the I/O panel, there are
(see p.2 No. 30) three USB 2.0 headers on this

motherboard. Each USB 2.0
header can support two USB

2.0 ports.

(9-pin USB8_9)
(see p.2 No. 29)

(9-pin USB10_11)
(see p.2 No. 28)

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USB 3.0 Header Besides two default USB 3.0

(19-pin USB3_2_3) ports on the I/O panel, there is
(see p.2 No. 23) one USB 3.0 header on this

motherboard. This USB 3.0
header can support two USB

3.0 ports.

Infrared Module Header This header supports an

(5-pin IR1) optional wireless transmitting
(see p.2 No. 32) and receiving infrared module.

Front Panel Audio Header This is an interface for the front

(9-pin HD_AUDIO1) panel audio cable that allows
(see p.2, No. 34) convenient connection and

control of audio devices.

1. High Definition Audio supports Jack Sensing, but the panel wire on
the chassis must support HDA to function correctly. Please follow the

instruction in our manual and chassis manual to install your system.

2. If you use AC’97 audio panel, please install it to the front panel audio
header as below:
A. Connect Mic_IN (MIC) to MIC2_L.
B. Connect Audio_R (RIN) to OUT2_R and Audio_L (LIN) to OUT2_L.

C. Connect Ground (GND) to Ground (GND).
D. MIC_RET and OUT_RET are for HD audio panel only. You don’t
need to connect them for AC’97 audio panel.

E. To activate the front mic.

For Windows® XP / XP 64-bit OS:

Select “Mixer”. Select “Recorder”. Then click “FrontMic”.

For Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS:

Go to the "FrontMic" Tab in the Realtek Control panel. Adjust

“Recording Volume”.

System Panel Header This header accommodates

(9-pin PANEL1) several system front panel
(see p.2 No. 15) functions.

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Connect the power switch, reset switch and system status indicator on
the chassis to this header according to the pin assignments below. Note
the positive and negative pins before connecting the cables.

PWRBTN (Power Switch):

Connect to the power switch on the chassis front panel. You may
configure the way to turn off your system using the power switch.

RESET (Reset Switch):

Connect to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset
switch to restart the computer if the computer freezes and fails to
perform a normal restart.

PLED (System Power LED):

Connect to the power status indicator on the chassis front panel. The LED
is on when the system is operating. The LED keeps blinking when the
sys-tem is in S1 sleep state. The LED is off when the system is in S3/S4
sleep state or powered off (S5).

HDLED (Hard Drive Activity LED):

Connect to the hard drive activity LED on the chassis front panel. The
LED is on when the hard drive is reading or writing data.

The front panel design may differ by chassis. A front panel module
mainly consists of power switch, reset switch, power LED, hard drive
activity LED, speaker and etc. When connecting your chassis front panel
module to this header, make sure the wire assignments and the pin
assign-ments are matched correctly.

Power LED Header Please connect the chassis

(3-pin PLED1) power LED to this header to
(see p.2 No. 14) indicate system power status.

The LED is on when the system
is operating. The LED keeps
blinking in S1 state. The LED is
off in S3/S4 state or S5 state
(power off).

Chassis Speaker Header Please connect the chassis

(4-pin SPEAKER 1) speaker to this header.
(see p.2 No. 13)

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Chassis and Power Fan Connectors Please connect the fan cables

(4-pin CHA_FAN1) to the fan connectors and
(see p.2 No. 9) match the black wire to the

ground pin. CHA_FAN1/2/3 fan

(3-pin CHA_FAN2) speed can be controlled through
(see p.2 No. 42) BIOS or OC Tuner utility.

(3-pin CHA_FAN3)
(see p.2 No. 43)

(3-pin PWR_FAN1)
(see p.2 No. 1)

CPU Fan Connectors Please connect the CPU fan

(4-pin CPU_FAN1) cable to this connector and
(see p.2 No. 5) match the black wire to the

1 2 3 4

Though this motherboard provides 4-Pin CPU fan (Quiet Fan) support, the 3-Pin
CPU fan still can work successfully even without the fan speed control function.
If you plan to connect the 3-Pin CPU fan to the CPU fan connector on this
motherboard, please connect it to Pin 1-3.

(3-pin CPU_FAN2)
(see p.2 No. 6)

ground pin.

Pin 1-3 Connected

3-Pin Fan Installation

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3030

30

3030

ATX Power Connector Please connect an ATX power

(24-pin ATXPW R1) supply to this connector.
(see p.2 No. 10)

Though this motherboard provides 24-pin ATX power connector,
it can still work if you adopt a traditional 20-pin ATX power supply.

12 124

13

12

To use the 20-pin ATX power supply, please plug your power
supply along with Pin 1 and Pin 13.

20-Pin A TX Power Supply Installation

1

ASRock 890GX Extreme4 Motherboard

24

13