Elitegroup H81H3-A3 User Manual V1.0

Preface

This publication, including all photographs, illustrations and software, is protected under international copyright laws, with all rights reserved. Neither this manual, nor any of the material contained herein, may be reproduced without written consent of the author.

Version 1.0

Disclaimer

The information in this document is subject to change without notice. The manufacturer makes no representations or warranties with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. The manufacturer reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes from time to time in the content hereof without obligation of the manufacturer to notify any person of such revision or changes.

Trademark Recognition

Microsoft, MS-DOS and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

MMX, Pentium, Pentium-II, Pentium-III, Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.

Other product names used in this manual are the properties of their respective owners and are acknowledged.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver

• Connect the equipment onto an outlet on a circuit different from that to

which the receiver is connected

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

Shielded interconnect cables and a shielded AC power cable must be employed with this equipment to ensure compliance with the pertinent RF emission limits governing this device. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the system’s manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Declaration of Conformity

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference.

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference

that may cause undesired operation.

This device is in conformity with the following EC/EMC directives:



EN 55022



EN 61000-3-2

EN 61000-3-3



EN 55024

EN 60950



CE marking



Limits and methods of mesurement of radio disturbance characteristics of information technology equipment

Disturbances in supply systems caused

Disturbances in supply systems caused by household appliances and similar electrical equipment “ Voltage fluctuations”

Information technology equipment-Immunity characteristicsLimits and methods of measurement

Safety for information technology equipment including electrical business equipment

Canadian Department of Communications

This class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interferencecausing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Réglement sur le matériel brouilieur du Canada.

About the Manual

The manual consists of the following:

Chapter 1 Introducing the Motherboard

Chapter 2 Installing the Motherboard

Chapter 3 Using BIOS

Chapter 4 Using the Motherboard Software

Chapter 5

AMD CrossFireXTM Technology Support

Chapter 6

Trouble Shooting

Describes features of the motherboard.

Describes installation of motherboard components.

Provides information on using the BIOS Setup Utility.

Describes the motherboard software.

Describes the AMD Crossfire

Provides basic trouble shooting tips.

Technology

page 1

page 7

page 27

page 67

page 71

page 73

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Preface i

Chapter 1 1

Introducing the Motherboard 1

Introduction...................................................................................1

Pakage Contents............................................................................1

Specifications................................................................................2

Motherboard Components..........................................................4

I/O Ports..............................................................................................6

Chapter 2 7

Installing the Motherboard 7

Safety Precautions.............................................................................7

Installing the Motherboard in a Chassis......................................7

Checking Jumper Settings.................................................................8

Installing Hardware..................................................................9

Installing the Processor.............................................................9

Installing the CPU Cooler.........................................................11

Installing Memory Modules....................................................12

Installing Add-on Cards...........................................................13

Connecting Optional Devices..................................................15

Installing a SATA Hard Drive...................................................21

Connecting Case Components.......................................................22

Front Panel Header.................................................................25

Chapter 3 27

Using BIOS 27

About the Setup Utility................................................................27

The Standard Configuration....................................................27

Entering the Setup Utility........................................................27

Resetting the Default CMOS Values.....................................28

Using BIOS.......................................................................................28

BIOS Navigation Keys..............................................................29

Main Menu.............................................................................30

Advanced Menu......................................................................31

Chipset Menu..........................................................................45

M.I.B. III(MB Intelligent BIOS III) Menu..................................53

Boot Menu...............................................................................62

Security Menu..........................................................................63

Exit Menu................................................................................64

Updating the BIOS..........................................................................65

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

iii

Chapter 4 67

Using the Motherboard Software 67

Auto-installing under Windows XP/7/8......................................67

Running Setup.........................................................................67

Manual Installation..........................................................................69

ECS Utility Software (Intelligent EZ Utility).....................................69

Chapter 5 71

AMD CrossFireXTM Technology Support 71

Requirements....................................................................................71

Installing CrossFireX The Catalyst

Control Center Dialog Box...................................72

graphics cards......................................71

Chapter 6 73

Trouble Shooting 73

Start up problems during assembly..............................................73

Start up problems after prolong use............................................74

Maintenance and care tips..............................................................74

Basic Troubleshooting Flowchart...................................................75

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 1

Introducing the Motherboard

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the H81H3-A3 motherboard. This motherboard is a high performance, enhanced function motherboard designed to support the LGA1150 socket

® 4th

for Intel

This motherboard is based on Intel solution. It supports up to 16 GB of system memory with dual channel DDR3 1600/ 1333 MHz. One PCI Express x16 slot (Gray slot) and one PCI Express x16 Gen2 slot (Black slot runs at x1 mode) are supported, intended for Graphics Interface. In addition, two PCI Express x1 Gen2 slots and two PCI v2.3 slots are for extending usage.

It integrates USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 interface, supporting up to eight USB 2.0 ports (four USB 2.0 ports at rear panel and two USB 2.0 headers support additional four USB 2.0 ports) and two USB 3.0 ports (two USB 3.0 ports at the rear panel).

The motherboard is equipped with advanced full set of I/O ports in the rear panel, including PS/2 Keyboard & PS/2 Mouse connectors, one VGA port, one DVI port, one HDMI (or DP) port, four USB 2.0 ports, one RJ45 LAN connector, two USB 3.0 ports and audio jacks for line-in, line-out and microphone.

In addition, this motherboard supports two SATA 6Gb/s and two SATA 3Gb/s connectors for expansion.

Generation CoreTM Family processors.

H81 Express Chipset for best desktop platform

Package Contents

Your motherboard package ships with the following items:

H81H3-A3 Motherboard



Quick Installation Guide



User Manual



DVD



I/O Shield



2 SATA 6G with latch Cables



Chapter 1

The package contents above are for reference only, please take the actual package items as standard.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 1

Specifications

CPU

Memory

Expansion Slots

AMD CrossFireX Technology

Storage

Audio

Rear Panel I/O

Internal I/O Connectors & Headers

• LGA1150 socket for Intel processors

• Supports CPU up to 95W TDP

Note: Please go to ECS website for the latest CPU support list.

• Intel® H81 ChipsetChipset

• Dual-channel DDR3 memory architecture

• 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets support up to 16 GB

• Supports DDR3 1600/1333 MHz SDRAM

Note: Please go to ECS website for the latest Memory support list.

• 1 x PCI Express x16 slot (Gray)

• 1 x PCI Express x16 Gen2 slot (Run x1 mode- Black, PCIEX16_S)

• 2 x PCI Express x1 Gen2 slots

• 2 x PCI v2.3 slots

*Support AMD CrossFireX (PCIEX16_S slot running PCIE

Note: Gen2 x1 Mode).

• Supports AMD CrossFireX

The PCIEX16_S (black color of PCIE x16 slot) supports PCI

Express Gen2 running at X1 mode

• Supported by Intel® H81 Express Chipset

- 2 x Serial ATA 6Gb/s devices

- 2 x Serial ATA 3Gb/s devices

• Realtek ALC662 6-Ch High Definition audio CODEC

Compliant with HD audio specification

• Realtek RTL8111G Gigabit LanLAN

• 1 x PS/2 Keyboard & Mouse connectors

• 1 x VGA port

• 1 x DVI port

• 1 x HDMI (or DP) port

• 4 x USB 2.0 ports

• 1 x RJ45 LAN connector

• 2 x USB 3.0 ports

• 1 x Audio port (1 x line-in, 1 x line-out, 1 x microphone)

• 1 x 24-pin ATX Power Supply connector

• 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power connector

• 1 x 4-pin PWR_FAN connector

• 1 x 4-pin CPU_FAN connector

• 1 x 4-pin SYS_FAN connector

• 1 x 4-pin NB_FAN connector

• 2 x USB 2.0 headers support additional four USB 2.0 ports

• 2 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors, 2 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors

• 1 x SPDIF out header

• 1 x Front Panel audio header

• 1 x COM header

• 1 x USBPWR_R1 jumper

• 1 x USBPWR_R jumper

• 1 x CLR_CMOS jumper

® 4th

Generation CoreTM Family

Technology

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

System BIOS

AP/Bundled Software Support

• 1 x USBPWR_F jumper

• 1 x Parallel port header (LPT)

• 1 x Speaker header

• 1 x Case open header

• AMI BIOS with 64Mb SPI Flash ROM

• Supports Plug and Play, STR (S3)/ STD(S4), Hardware Monitor

• Supports ACPI & DMI

• Audio, LAN, can be disabled in BIOS

• F7 hot key for boot up devices option

• Supports PgUp clear CMOS Hotkey (Has PS2 KB Model only)

• Supports Dual Dispaly (depends on display output)

• Supports EZ BIOS (1024X768 resolution, GUI UEFI)

• Supports Multi-Language

• Supports AC’97/HD Audio auto detect (default)

• ECS Exclusive AP: Supports eBLU*1/eDLU/eSF*

• 3rd Party Bundled software: Cyberlink MediaSuite*2/Norton*2/

Note:

*2Free bundle software including ECS DVD: Cyberlink

• ATX Size, 305mm x 190mmForm Factor

/Sound Blaster Cinema*

Muzee

*1Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 is required.

MediaSuite/Norton/Muzee/Sound Blaster Cinema.

Chapter 1

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 1

Motherboard Components

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Table of Motherboard Components

Generation Core

LABEL COMPONENTS

1. CPU Socket

2. PWR_FAN 4-pin Power cooling fan connector

3. CPU_FAN 4-pin CPU cooling fan connector

4. DDR3_1~2 240-pin DDR3 Module slots

5. ATX_POWER Standard 24-pin ATX power connector

6. NB_FAN 4-pin Northbridge cooling fan connector

7. PCIEX16 PCI Express x16 slot for graphics interface

8. CLR_CMOS Clear CMOS jumper

9. PCIEX16_S PCI Express Gen2 x1 slot

10. SATA5~6 Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors

11. F_PANEL Front panel switch/LED header

12. SATA1~2 Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors

13. CASE CASE open header

14. F_USB1~2 Front panel USB 2.0 headers

15. USBPWR_F Front panel USB power select jumper

16. COM Onboard serial port header

17. LPT Parallel port header

18. SPDIFO SPDIF out header

19. F_AUDIO Front panel audio header

20. PCI1~2 32-bit PCI add-on card slots

21. SPK Speaker header

22. PCIE1~2 PCI Express Gen2 x1 slots

23. SYS_FAN 4-pi n system cooling fan connector

24. USBPWR_R1 Rear USB3LAN power select jumper

25. USBPWR_R Rear USB/PS2 power select jumper

26. ATX12V 4-pin +12V power connector

LGA1150 socket for Intel

Family processors

Chapter 1

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 1

I/O Ports

1. PS/2 Mouse (green)

Use the upper PS/2 port to connect the PS/2 Mouse.

2. PS/2 Keyboard (purple)

Use the lower PS/2 port to connect the PS/2 Keyboard.

3. VGA Port

Connect your monitor to the VGA port.

4. DVI Port

Connect your monitor to the DVI port.

5. HDMI (or DP)

You can connect the display device to the HDMI (or DP) port.

6. USB 2.0 Ports

Use the USB 2.0 ports to connect USB 2.0 devices.

7. LAN Port

Connect an RJ-45 jack to the LAN port to connect your computer to the Network.

LAN LED Status Desc ription

Activity LED

Link LED

8. USB 3.0 Ports

Use the USB 3.0 ports to connect USB 3.0 devices.

9. Line-in(blue) It can be connected to an external CD/DVD player, Tape player or other audio devices for audio input.

10. Line-out(lime) It is used to connect to speakers or headphones.

11. Microphone(pink) It is used to connect to a microphone.

OFF No d ata Orange blinking Active OFF No link Green Link

Link LED

LAN Port

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 2

Installing the Motherboard

2-1. Safety Precautions

Follow these safety precautions when installing the motherboard:

• Wear a grounding strap attached to a grounded device to avoid damage from static electricity.

• Discharge static electricity by touching the metal case of a safely grounded object before working on the motherboard.

• Leave components in the static-proof bags.

• Always remove the AC power by unplugging the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing the motherboard or other hardware components.

2-2. Installing the motherboard in a Chassis

This motherboard carries an ATX form factor of 305 x 190 mm. Choose a chassis that accommodates this form factor. Make sure that the I/O template in the chassis matches the I/O ports installed on the rear edge of the motherboard. Most system chassis have mounting brackets installed in the chassis, which corresponds to the holes in the motherboard. Place the motherboard over the mounting brackets and secure the motherboard onto the mounting brackets with screws.

Chapter 2

Do not over-tighten the screws as this can stress the motherboard.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

2-3. Checking Jumper Settings

The following illustration shows the location of the motherboard jumpers. Pin 1 is labeled.

Chapter 2

1. To avoid the system instability after clearing CMOS, we recommend users to enter the main BIOS setting page to “Load Default Settings” and then “Save and Exit Setup”.

2. Make sure the power supply provides enough 5VSB voltage before selecting the 5VSB function.

3. It is required that users place the USBPWR_F & USBPWR_R1 & USBPWR_R cap onto 2-3 pin rather than 1-2 pin as default if you want to wake up the computer by USB/PS2 KB/Mouse.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

2-4. Installing Hardware

2-4-1. Installing the Processor

• This motherboard has an LGA1150 socket.

• When choosing a processor, consider the performance requirements of the system. Performance is based on the processor design, the clock speed and system bus frequency of the processor, and the quantity of internal cache memory and external cache memory.

• You may be able to change the settings in the system Setup Utility. We strongly recommend you do not over-clock processor or other components to run faster than their rated speed.

• The following illustration shows CPU installation components.

A. Press the hook of lever down with your thumb and pull it to the right side to release it from retention tab.

B. Lift the tail of the load lever and rotate the load plate to fully open position.

Chapter 2

C. Grasp the edge of the package substrate. Make sure pin 1 indicator is on your bottom-left side. Aim at the socket and place the package carefully into the socket by purely vertical motion.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 2

D. Rotate the load plate onto the package IHS (Intergraded Heat Spreader). Engage the load lever while pressing down lightly onto the load plate. Secure the load lever with the hook under retention tab. Then the cover will flick automatically.

Please save and replace the cover onto the CPU socket if processor is removed.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

2-4-2. Installing the CPU Cooler

• Install the cooling fan in a well-lit work area so that you can clearly see the motherboard and processor socket.

• Avoid using cooling fans with sharp edges in case the fan casing and the clips cause serious damage to the motherboard or its components.

• To achieve better airflow rates and heat dissipation, we suggest that you use a high quality fan with 3800 rpm at least. CPU fan and heat sink installation procedures may vary with the type of CPU fan/heatsink supplied. The form and size of fan/heatsink may also vary.

• DO NOT remove the CPU cap from the socket before installing a CPU.

• Return Material Authorization (RMA) requests will be accepted only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA1150 socket.

• The following illustration shows how to install CPU fan.

A. Apply some thermal grease onto the contacted area between the heatsink and the CPU, and make it to be a thin layer.

B. Fasten the cooling fan supporting base onto the CPU socket on the motherboard. And make sure the CPU fan is plugged to the CPU fan connector.

Chapter 2

C. Connect the CPU cooler power connector to the CPU_FAN connector.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

2-4-3. Installing Memory Modules

Chapter 2

• This motherboard accommodates two memory modules. It can support two 240-pin DDR3 1600/1333 MHz.

• Do not remove any memory module from its antistatic packaging until you are ready to install it on the motherboard. Handle the modules only by their edges. Do not touch the components or metal parts. Always wear a grounding strap when you handle the modules.

• You must install at least one module in any of the two slots. Total memory capacity is 16 GB.

• Refer to the following to install the memory modules.

A. Push the latches on each side of the DIMM slot down.

B. Install the DIMM module into the slot and press it firmly down until it

seats correctly. Check that the cutouts on the DIMM module edge connector match the notches in the DIMM slot.

C. The slot latches are levered upwards and latch on to the edges of the

DIMM.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

2-4-4. Installing Add-on Cards

The slots on this motherboard are designed to hold expansion cards and connect them to the system bus. Expansion slots are a means of adding or enhancing the motherboard’s features and capabilities. With these efficient facilities, you can increase the motherboard’s capabilities by adding hardware that performs tasks that are not part of the basic system.

Chapter 2

PCIE1~2 Slots

PCIEX16 Slot

PCIEX16_S Slot

PCI1~2 Slots

The PCI Express x1 slots are fully compliant to the PCI Express Base Specification revision 2.0.

The PCI Express x16 slot is used to install an external PCI Express graphics card that is fully compliant to the PCI Express Base Specification revision 2.0.

This slot is fully compliant to the PCI Express Base Specification revision 2.0 which runs at x1 mode.

This motherboard is equipped with two standard PCI slots. PCI stands for Peripheral Component Interconnect and is a bus standard for expansion cards, which for the most part, is a supplement of the older ISA bus standard. The PCI slots on this board are PCI v2.3 compliant.

Before installing an add-on card, check the documentation for the card carefully. If the card is not Plug and Play, you may have to manually configure the card before installation.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Recommend add_on card configuration

Chapter 2

Follow these instructions to install an add-on card:

Please refer the following illustrations to install the add-on card:

Model

SPEC PCI-E Running x16 mode PCI-E Running x1 mode

Color

1 Graphic Card (VGA card) Populated ~

1 Remove a blanking plate from the system case corresponding to the slot

you are going to use.

2 Install the edge connector of the add-on card into the expansion slot.

Ensure that the edge connector is correctly seated in the slot.

3 Secure the metal bracket of the card to the system case with a screw.

1. For some add-on cards, for example graphics adapters and network adapters, you have to install drivers and software before you can begin using the add-on card.

2. The onboard PCI interface does not support 64-bit SCSI cards.

PCIEX16 PCIEX16_S

Gray Black

PCIEX16 Slots

Install the VGA Card in the PCI slot

Install the VGA Card in the PCIE X16 slot

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Install the LAN Card in the PCIE X1 slot

2-4-5. Connecting Optional Devices

Refer to the following for information on connecting the motherboard’s optional devices:

No. Components No. Components

1SATA1~2 & SATA5~6 5 LPT

2CASE6SPDIFO

3 F_USB1~2 7 F_AUDIO

4 COM —— ——

Chapter 2

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

1. SATA1~2 & 5~6: Serial ATA connectors

SATA1~2 connectors are used to support the Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s device, and SATA5~6 connectors are used to support the Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s device, simpler disk drive cabling and easier PC assembly. It eliminates limitations of the current Parallel ATA interface. But maintains register compatibility and software compatibility with

Chapter 2

Parallel ATA.

2. CASE: Chassis Intrusion Detect Header

This detects if the chassis cover has been removed. This function needs a chassis equipped with instrusion detection switch and needs to be enabled in BIOS.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

3. F_USB1~2: Front Panel USB 2.0 headers

The motherboard has two USB 2.0 headers supporting four USB 2.0 ports. Additionally, some computer cases have USB ports at the front of the case. If you have this kind of case, use auxiliary USB connector to connect the front-mounted ports to the motherboard.

Please make sure that the USB cable has the same pin assignment as indicated above. A different pin assignment may cause damage or system hangup.

4. COM: Onboard serial port header

Connect a serial port extension bracket to this header to add a serial port to your system.

Chapter 2

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

5. LPT: Onboard parallel port header

This is a header that can be used to connect to the printer, scanner or other devices.

Chapter 2

6. SPDIFO: SPDIF out header

This is an optional header that provides an SPDIFO (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) output to digital multimedia device through optical fiber or coaxial connector.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

7. F_AUDIO: Front Panel Audio Header

The front panel audio header allows the user to install auxiliary front-oriented microphone and line-out ports for easier access. This header supports HD audio by default. If you want connect an AC please set as below picture.

’ 97 front panel audio to HD onboard headers,

AC’ 97 Audio Configuration: To enable the front panel audio connector to support AC97 Audio mode.

If you use AC’ 97 Front Panel, please tick off the option of “ Disabled Front Panel Detect

”. If you use HD Audio Front Panel, please don’ t tick off “Disabled Front Panel

” .

Detect

Chapter 2

* For reference only

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

If you use AC’ 97 Front Panel, please don’ t tick off “ Using Front Jack Detect ” . If you use HD Audio Front Panel, please

Chapter 2

tick off the option of “ Using Front Jack Detect ” .

* For reference only

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

2-4-6. Installing a SATA Hard Drive

This section describes how to install a SATA Hard Drive.

About SATA Connectors

Your motherboard features four SATA connectors supporting a total of four drives. SATA refers to Serial ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) is the standard interface for the IDE hard drives which are currently used in most PCs. These connectors are well designed and will only fit in one orientation. Locate the SATA connectors on the motherboard and follow the illustration below to install the SATA hard drives.

Installing Serial ATA Hard Drives

To install the Serial ATA (SATA) hard drives, use the SATA cable that supports the Serial ATA protocol. This SATA cable comes with a SATA power cable. You can connect either end of the SATA cable to the SATA hard drive or the connector on the motherboard.

Refer to the illustration below for proper installation:

1 Attach either cable end to the connector on the motherboard. 2 Attach the other cable end to the SATA hard drive. 3 Attach the SATA power cable to the SATA hard drive and connect the other

end to the power supply.

Chapter 2

* For reference only

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

2-4-7. Connecting Case Components

After you have installed the motherboard into a case, you can begin connecting the motherboard components. Refer to the following:

Chapter 2

No. Components No. Components

1PWR_FAN 5 SPK

2 CPU_FAN 6 SYS_FAN

3ATX_POWER7 NB_FAN

4 F_PANEL 8 ATX12V

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

1. CPU_FAN (CPU cooling FAN Power Connector) & 2. PWR_FAN (Power Cooling FAN Power Connector) & 6. SYS_FAN (System Cooling FAN Power Connector) & 7. NB_FAN (Northbridge Cooling FAN Power Connector)

Connect the CPU cooling fan cable to CPU_FAN. Connect the power cooling fan connector to PWR_FAN.

Connect the system cooling fan connector to SYS_FAN. Connect the northbridge cooling fan connector to NB_FAN.

Users please note that the fan connector supports the CPU cooling fan of 1.1A ~ 2.2A (26.4W max) at +12V.

3. ATX_POWER (ATX 24-pin Power Connector) & 8. ATX12V (ATX 12V Power Connector)

Connect the standard power supply connector to ATX_POWER. Connect the auxiliary case power supply connector to ATX12V.

Chapter 2

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 2

Connecting 24-pin power cable

The ATX 24-pin connector allows you to connect to ATX v2.x power supply.

With ATX v2.x power supply, users please note that when installing 24-pin power cable, the latches of power cable and the ATX match perfectly.

24-pin power cable

Connecting 4-pin power cable

The ATX12V4P power connector is used to provide power to the CPU.

When installing 4-pin power cable, the latches of power cable and the ATX12V4P match perfectly.

4-pin power cable

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

4. F_PANEL: Front Panel Header

The front panel header (F_PANEL) provides a standard set of switch and LED headers commonly found on ATX or Micro ATX cases. Refer to the table below for information:

Hard Drive Activity LED

Connecting pins 1 and 3 to a front panel mounted LED provides visual indication that data is being read from or written to the hard drive. For the LED to function properly, an IDE drive should be connected to the onboard IDE interface. The LED will also show activity for devices connected to the SCSI (hard drive activity LED) connector.

Power/Sleep/Message waiting LED

Connecting pins 2 and 4 to a single or dual-color, front panel mounted LED provides power on/off, sleep, and message waiting indication.

Reset Switch

Supporting the reset function requires connecting pin 5 and 7 to a momentary-contact switch that is normally open. When the switch is closed, the board resets and runs POST.

Power Switch

Supporting the power on/off function requires connecting pins 6 and 8 to a momentary-contact switch that is normally open. The switch should maintain contact for at least 50 ms to signal the power supply to switch on or off. The time requirement is due to internal de-bounce circuitry. After receiving a power on/off signal, at least two seconds elapses before the power supply recognizes another on/off signal.

Chapter 2

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

5. SPK: Speaker header

Connect the case speaker cable to SPK.

Chapter 2

This concludes Chapter 2. The next chapter covers the BIOS.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 3

Using BIOS

About the Setup Utility

The computer uses the latest “American Megatrends Inc. ” BIOS with support for Windows Plug and Play. The CMOS chip on the motherboard contains the ROM setup instructions for configuring the motherboard BIOS.

The BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) Setup Utility displays the system’s configuration status and provides you with options to set system parameters. The parameters are stored in battery-backed-up CMOS RAM that saves this information when the power is turned off. When the system is turned back on, the system is configured with the values you stored in CMOS.

The BIOS Setup Utility enables you to configure:

• Hard drives, diskette drives and peripherals

• Video display type and display options

• Password protection from unauthorized use

• Power Management features

The settings made in the Setup Utility affect how the computer performs. Before using the Setup Utility, ensure that you understand the Setup Utility options.

This chapter provides explanations for Setup Utility options.

The Standard Configuration

A standard configuration has already been set in the Setup Utility. However, we recommend that you read this chapter in case you need to make any changes in the future.

This Setup Utility should be used:

• when changing the system configuration

• when a configuration error is detected and you are prompted to make changes to the Setup Utility

• when trying to resolve IRQ conflicts

• when making changes to the Power Management configuration

• when changing the password or making other changes to the Security Setup

Entering the Setup Utility

When you power on the system, BIOS enters the Power-On Self Test (POST) routines. POST is a series of built-in diagnostics performed by the BIOS. After the POST routines are completed, the following message appears:

Press DEL to enter SETUP

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Press the delete key to access BIOS Setup Utility.

Chapter 3

Resetting the Default CMOS Values

When powering on for the first time, the POST screen may show a “CMOS Settings Wrong” message. This standard message will appear following a clear CMOS data at factory by the manufacturer. You simply need to Load Default Settings to reset the default CMOS values.

Note: Changes to system hardware such as different CPU, memories, etc. may also trigger this message.

Above image is for reference only, for details please refer to actual image.

Using BIOS

When you start the Setup Utility, the main menu appears. The main menu of the Setup Utility displays a list of the options that are available. A highlight indicates which option is currently selected. Use the cursor arrow keys to move the highlight to other options. When an option is highlighted, execute the option by pressing <Enter>.

Some options lead to pop-up dialog boxes that prompt you to verify that you wish to execute that option. Other options lead to dialog boxes that prompt you for information.

Some options (marked with an icon the values for the option. Use the cursor arrow keys to scroll through the items in the submenu.



 ) lead to submenus that enable you to change



H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

In this manual, default values are enclosed in parenthesis. Submenu items are denoted by an icon .

The default BIOS setting for this motherboard apply for most conditions with optimum performance. We do not suggest users change the default values in the BIOS setup and take no responsibility to any damage caused by changing the BIOS settings.

BIOS Navigation Keys

The BIOS navigation keys are listed below:

KEY FUNCTION

ESC Exits the current menu

mnlk

 Scrolls through the items on a menu

+/-Change Opt.

Enter Select

F1 General Help

F2 Previous Value

F3 Optimized Defaults

F4 Save & Exit

1. For the purpose of better product maintenance, the manufacture reserves the right to change the BIOS items presented in this manual. The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter are for reference only and may differ from the actual BIOS. Please visit the manufacture’s website for updated manual.

2. In this Gui BIOS, you can operate by mouse or keyboard. Click : select item; Double click: enter; Right click: exit.

Chapter 3

Language

Select the language icon and press <Enter> or double click the left key of the mouse to display the screen. Then you can choose the language: English, Traditional Chinese, Simple Chinese, Russian, Korean, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese.

Default

Select the default icon and press <Enter> or double click the left key of the mouse to display the screen. Then you can load optimized defaults or not.

Boot

Select the boot icon and press <Enter> or double click the left key of the mouse to display the screen. Then you can choose the boot device.

Advanced

Select the advanced icon and press <Enter> or double click the left key of the mouse to display the screen.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Main Menu

This menu shows the information of BIOS and enables you to set the system language, date and time.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

BIOS Information

System Language English

System Date

Chapter 3

System Time 00:13:51

System Language (English)

This item is used to set system language.

System Date & Time

The Date and Time items show the current date and time on the computer. If you are running a Windows OS, these items are automatically updated whenever you make changes to the Windows Date and Time Properties utility.

Mon 05/27/2013

Choose the system default language

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Advanced Menu

The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

LAN Configuration PC Health Status Power Management Setup PCI Express Configuration ACPI Settings CPU Configuration SATA Configuration USB Configuration Super IO Configuration Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology

LAN Configuration Parameters

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

LAN Configuration

The item in the menu shows the LAN-related information that the BIOS automatically detects.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

LAN Configuration

Onboard LAN Controller Enabled

Chapter 3

Onboard LAN Controller (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable Onboard LAN controller.

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

Enabled/Disabled Onboard LAN Controller

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

PC Health Status

On motherboards support hardware monitoring, this item lets you monitor the parameters for critical voltages, temperatures and fan speeds.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

PC Health Status

Smart Fan Function

CPU Temperature (DTS) : 43 System Temperature : 33 CPU Fan Speed : 3199RPM System Fan Speed : 0 RPM Power Fan Speed : 0 RPM NB Fan Speed : 0 RP M Processor Input Voltage : 1.728V DIMM Voltage : 1.500V TCC Activation Temperature (DTS) 75

 Smart Fan Function

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

CPU Smart Fan Control Enabled Smart Fan Mode

Smart Fan start PWM value 180 Smart Fan start PWM TEMP(DTS) 45 DeltaT +3 Smart Fan Slope PWM value 1 0 PWM value/unit CPU Fan Full Speed Offset (DTS) 52

System Smart Fan Control Smart Fan Mode Normal

Smart Fan start PWM value 180 Smart Fan start PWM TEMP(DTS) 45 DeltaT +3 Smart Fan Slope PWM value 1 0 PWM value/unit System Fan Full Speed Offset (DTS) 52

Power Smart Fan Control Smart Fan Mode Normal

Smart Fan start PWM value 180 Smart Fan start PWM TEMP(DTS) 45 DeltaT +3 Smart Fan Slope PWM value 1 0 PWM value/unit Power Fan Full Speed Offset (DTS) 52

Enabled

Normal

CPU Smart Fan/System Smart Fan/Power Smart Fan Control (Enabled)

These items enable you to define the CPU smart fun/system smart fan/power smart fan by smartly adjusting the CPU smart fan/system smart fan/power smart fan. When it is set at certain temperature, the CPU smart fan/system smart fan/power smart fan PWM value will change accordingly.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Enable CPU SmartFan

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Smart Fan Mode (Normal)

This item allows you to select the fan mode (Normal, Quiet, Silent, or Manual) for a better operation environment. If you choose Normal mode, the fan speed will be auto adjusted depending on the CPU temperature. If you choose Quite mode, the fan speed will be auto minimized for quiet environment. If you choose Silent mode, the fan speed will be auto restricted to make system more quietly. If you choose Manual mode, the fan speed will be adjust depending on users’ parameters.

Smart Fan start PWM value (180)

This item is used to set the start PWM value of the smart fan.

Smart Fan start PWM TEMP (DTS) (45)

This item is used to set the start temperature of the smart fan.

Chapter 3

DeltaT (+3)

This item specifies the range that controls CPU temperature and keeps it from going so high or so low when smart fan works.

Smart Fan Slope PWM value (10 PWM value/unit)

This item is used to set the Slope Select PWM of the smart fan.

CPU Fan/System Fan/Power Fan Full Speed Offset (DTS) (52)

This item is used to set the CPU fan/System fan/Power fan full speed offset value.

Press <Esc> to return to the PC Health Status page.

System Component Characteristics

These items display the monitoring of the overall inboard hardware health events, such as CPU & DIMM voltage, CPU & System fan speed...etc.

• CPU Temperature (DTS)

• System Temperature

• CPU Fan Speed

• System Fan Speed

• Power Fan Speed

• NB Fan Speed

• Processor Input Voltage

• DIMM Voltage

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Power Management Setup

This page sets up some parameters for system power management operation.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Power Management Setup

About Resume by Ring

Resume By RING Resume By PME Resume By USB Disabled Resume By PS2 KB Disabled Resume By PS2 MS Resume By RTC Alarm EUP Function Power LED Type

Disabled

Enabled

Dual Color LED

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Resume By RING (Disabled)

An input signal on the serial Ring Indicator (RI) line (in other words, an incoming call on the modem) awakens the system from a soft off state.

Resume By PME (Disabled)

The system can be turned off with a software command. If you enable this item, the system can automatically resume if there is an incoming call on the PCI/PCI-E Modem or PCI/PCI-E LAN card. You must use an ATX power supply in order to use this feature. Use this item to do wake-up action if inserting the PCI/PCI-E card.

Resume By USB (Disabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the USB device wakeup function from S3 mode.

Resume By PS2 KB (Disabled)

This item enables or disables you to allow keyboard activity to awaken the system from power saving mode.

Resume By PS2 MS (Disabled)

This item enables or disables you to allow mouse activity to awaken the system from power saving mode.

Resume By RTC Alarm (Disabled)

The system can be turned off with a software command. If you enable this item, the system can automatically resume at a fixed time based on the system’s RTC (realtime clock). Use the items below this one to set the date and time of the wakeup alarm. You must use an ATX power supply in order to use this feature.

EUP Function (Enabled)

This item allows user to enable or disable EUP support.

Power LED Type (Dual Color LED)

This item shows the type of the Power LED.

Chapter 3

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

PCI Express Configuration

The item in the menu shows the information of PCI Express Configuration.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

NB PCI Express Configuration

PCI Express 16X

PCI Express 16X Speed

PCI Express Configuration

PCIE1

Chapter 3

PCIe Speed

PCIE 2 PCIe Speed

PCI Express X16_S PCIe Speed

PCI Express 16X/PCIE1/PCIE2/PCI Express X16_S Speed (Auto)

This item allows user to configure the PCI Express 16X/PCIE1/PCIE2/PCI Express X16_S speed.

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

Auto

Configure PCI Express 16X speed B0: D1:F0 Gen 1- Gen 3

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

ACPI Settings

The item in the menu shows the highest ACPI sleep state when the system enters suspend.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

ACPI Settings

ACPI Sleep State S3 (Suspend to RAM)

ACPI Sleep State [S3(Suspend to RAM)]

This item allows user to enter the ACPI S3 (Suspend to RAM) Sleep State (default).

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

Select ACPI sleep state the system will enter when the SUSPEND button is pressed.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

CPU Configuration

The item in the menu shows the CPU.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

CPU Configuration

Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-4765T CPU @ 2.00GHz EM64T Supported Processor Speed 2000 MHz Processor Stepping 306c3 Microcode Revision 8 Processor Cores 4 Intel HT Technology Supported

Chapter 3

Intel VT-x Technology Supported

Hyper-threading Active Processor Cores Limit CPUID Maximum Disabled Execute Disable Bit Enabled Intel Virtualization Technology Enabled LakeTiny Feature Enabled CPU C3 Report Enabled CPU C6 Report CPU C7 Report Package C State limit Enhanced Halt (CIE)

Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-4765T CPU@ 2.00GHZ

This is display-only field and displays the information of the CPU installed in your computer.

EM64T (Supported)

This item shows the computer supports EM64T.

Processor Speed (2000MHz)

This item shows the current processor speed.

Processor Stepping (306c3)

This item shows the processor stepping version.

Microcode Revision (8)

This item shows the Microcode version.

Processor Cores (4)

This item shows the core number of the processor.

Intel HT Technology (Supported)

This item shows the computer not supports Intel HT Technology.

Intel VT-x Technology (Supported)

This item shows the computer supports Intel VT-x Technology.

Hyper-threading (Enabled)

This item is only available when the chipset supports Hyper-threading and you are using a Hyper-threading CPU.

Active Processor Cores (All)

Use this item to control the number of active processor cores.

Enabled

All

Disabled Disabled AUTO Enabled

Enabled for Windows XPand Linux (OS optimized for Hyper-Threading Technology)When Disabled for other OS (OS not optimized for Hyper-Threading Technology). When Disabled only one thread per enabled core is enabled.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Limit CPUID Maximum (Disabled)

Use this item to enable or disable the maximum CPUID value limit, you can enables this item to prevent the system from “rebooting” when trying to install Windows NT

4.0.

Execute Disable Bit (Enabled)

This item allows the processor to classify areas in memory by where application code can execute and where it cannot. When a malicious worm attempts to insert code in the buffer, the processor disables code execution, preventing damage or worm propagation. Replacing older computers with Execute Disable Bit enabled systems can halt worm attacks, reducing the need for virus related repair.

Intel Virtualization Technology (Enabled)

When disabled, a VMM cannot utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by Vandor Pool Technology.

LakeTiny Feature (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable the LakeTiny for C state configuration.

CPU C3 Report (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable CPU C3 (ACPI C2) report to OS.

CPU C6 Report (Disabled)

Use this item to enable or disable CPU C6 (ACPI C3) report to OS.

CPU C7 Report (Disabled)

Use this item to enable or disable CPU C7 report to OS.

Package C State limit (AUTO)

Use this item to set the package C state limit.

Enhanced Halt (CIE) (Enabled)

Use this item to enable the CPU energy-saving function when the system is not running.

/Click: Select Item

Chapter 3

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

F3: Optimized Defaults

ESC/Right Click: Exit

()

Rapid Start Technology.

SATA Configuration

Use this item to show the mode of serial SATA configuration options.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Chapter 3

/Click: Select Item

F3: Optimized Defaults

SATA Configuration

SATA Mode AHCI Mode

SATA Port1 Not Present Spin Up Device External SATA Disabled

SATA Port2 Not Present Spin Up Device External SATA Disabled

SATA Port5 Not Present Spin Up Device External SATA Disabled

SATA Port6 Not Present Spin Up Device External SATA Disabled

Disabled

Determines how SATA controller(s) operate.

: Select Screen

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F

Disabled2:

F3: Optimized Defaults

Disableds

Previou F4: Save & Exit

Values

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values

F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

SATA Mode (AHCI Mode)

Use this item to select SATA mode.

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

USB Configuration

Use this item to show the information of USB configuration.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

USB Configuration

All USB Devices Enabled

Legacy USB Support

Enabled

All USB Devices (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable all USB devices.

Legacy USB Support (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable support for legacy USB devices.

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

USB Support Parameters

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Super IO Configuration

Use this item to show the information of Super IO configuration.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Super IO Configuration

Super IO Chip IT8728 Serial Port 0 Configuration

Chapter 3

Super IO Chip (IT8728)

This item shows the information of the super IO chip.

 Serial Port 0 Configuration

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Serial Port 0 Configuration

Serial Port Enabled Device Settings IO=3F8h; IRQ=4;

Change Settings Auto

Parallel Port Configuration

Set Parameters of Serial Port 0 (COMA)

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Serial Port

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Serial Port (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable serial port.

Device Settings (IO=3F8h; IRQ=4)

This item shows the information of the device settings.

Change Settings (Auto)

Use this item to change device settings.

Press <Esc> to return to the Super IO Configuration page.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

 Parallel Port Configuration

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Parallel Port Configuration

Parallel Port Enabled Device Settings IO=378h; IRQ=5; DMA=3

Change Settings Device Mode ECP Mode

Auto

Enabled or Disabled Parallel Port (LPT/LPTE)

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Parallel Port (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable parallel port.

Device Settings (IO=378h; IRQ=5; DMA=3)

This item shows the information of the device settings.

Change Settings (Auto)

Use this item to change device settings.

Device Mode (ECP Mode)

This item shows the information of the device mode.

Press <Esc> to return to the Super IO Configuration page.

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology

Use this item to show the information of Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

ISCT Support Disabled

Chapter 3

ISCT Support (Disabled)

Use this item to enable or disable ISCT support.

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Menu page.

Enable or Disable ISCT Support

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chipset Menu

The chipset menu items allow you to change the settings for the North Bridge chipset, South Bridge chipset and other system.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

System Agent Configuration PCH Configuration ME Configuration



System Agent Configuration

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

System Agent Configuration

Initiate Graphic Adapter Auto IGD Memory DVMT Memory 256M IGD Multi-Monitor Disabled

CPU SA Audio Device Enabled

64M

System Agent (SA) Parameters.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Select which of IGFX/PEG/PCI Graphics device should be Primary Display or Select SG for Switchable Gfx.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Chapter 3

Initiate Graphic Adapter (Auto)

This item allows you to select graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.

IGD Memory (64M)

This item shows the information of the IGD (Internal Graphics Device) memory.

DVMT Memory (256M)

When set to Fixed Mode, the graphics driver will reserve a fixed position of the system memory as graphics memory, according to system and graphics requirements.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

IGD Multi-Monitor (Disabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the IGD Multi-Monitor.

CPU SA Audio Device (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the CPU SA Audio device.

Press <Esc> to return to the Chipset Menu page.

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Multi-Monitor technology

Multi-Monitor technology can help you to increase the area available for programs running on a single computer system through using multiple display devices.

It is not only to increase larger screen viewing but aslo to improving personal productivity.

Intel Integrated Graphics

Please note that Multi-Monitor technology supports up to four monitors: one or two Intel integrated Graphics and one or two PCI-Express graphics devices under Windows 7/8.

Step 1. Insert ECS drives DVD to run Auto setup or browse the DVD to install Intel chipset drivers, VGA and sound drivers.(If you want know the detail information, please refer to chapter 4.)

PCI-Express Graphics

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Step 2. Install all the drivers of PCI-Express graphic cards. Click the Browse CD item, then appears the following screen. Select the driver you want to install(e.g NVIDIA GeForce 8400 GS(Microsoft Corporation-WDDM v1.1)) and double click it.

Chapter 3

Step 3. Enable IGD Multi-Monitor from BIOS. In the following BIOS screen, please set IGD Multi-Monitor to [Enabled].

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

System Agent Configuration

Initiate Graphic Adapter Auto IGD Memory DVMT Memory 256M IGD Multi-Monitor Disabled

CPU SA Audio Device Enabled

64M

Select which of IGFX/PEG/PCI Graphics device should be Primary Display or Select SG for Switchable Gfx.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Step 4. Change the appearance of your displays under Windows 7/8.

1. Enter the Control Panel menu, select the Display in the All Control Panel Items and click the Screen Resolution, then appears the following screen.

Show the path of the setting location

Display devices

Control Panel All Control Panel Items Display Screen Resolution

Change the apprearance of your displays

1. DELL U2410Display:

Resolution:

Orientation: Landscape

This is currently your main display.

Make text and other items larger or smaller What display settings should I choose?

1920 x 1200 (recommended)

Extend desktop to this displayMultiple displays:

OK Cancel Apply

Search Control Panel

Detect

Identify

Advance settings

The type of the display

Set the multiple displays

2.Select display devices, set the multiple displays option and to extend destop for display “Multi-Monitor technology”.

Control Panel All Control Panel Items Display Screen Resolution

Change the apprearance of your displays

Search Control Panel

Detect

Identify

Chapter 3

3. DELL U2410Display:

Resolution:

Orientation: Landscape

You must select Apply before making additional changes.! Make this my main display

Make text and other items larger or smaller What display settings should I choose?

1920 x 1200 (recommended)

Disconnect this displayMultiple displays: Extend desktop to this display Disconnect this display

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Advance settings

OK Cancel Apply

Chapter 3

Control Panel All Control Panel Items Display Screen Resolution

Change the apprearance of your displays

4. AL1717Display:

Resolution:

Orientation: Landscape

You must select Apply before making additional changes.!

Make this my main display

Make text and other items larger or smaller What display settings should I choose?

1920 x 1200 (recommended)

Disconnect this displayMultiple displays:

OK Cancel Apply

Search Control Panel

Detect

Identify

Advance settings

Control Panel All Control Panel Items Display Screen Resolution

Change the apprearance of your displays

4. AL1717Display:

Resolution:

Orientation: Landscape

You must select Apply before making additional changes.! Make this my main display

Make text and other items larger or smaller What display settings should I choose?

1920 x 1200 (recommended)

Extend desktop to this displayMultiple displays:

OK Cancel Apply

Search Control Panel

Detect

Identify

Advance settings

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

PCH Configuration

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

PCH Configuration

Restore AC Power Loss Power Off

Audio Configuration Azalia HD Audio

Case Open Warning Disabled Chassis Opened No

Enabled

Restore AC Power Loss (Power Off)

This item enables your computer to automatically restart or return to its operating status.

Azalia HD Audio (Enabled)

This item enables or disables Azalia HD audio.

Case Open Warning (Disabled)

This item enables or disables the warning if the case is opened up, and the item below indicates the current status of the case.

Chassis Opened (No)

This item indicates whether the case has been opened.

Select AC Power state when Power is re-applied after a power failure.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Chapter 3

Press <Esc> to return to the Chipset Menu page.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

ME Configuration

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Management Engine Technology Configuration

ME Control Enabled ME FW Version 9.0.10.1372

Chapter 3

ME Control (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable the ME Firmware.

ME FW Version (9.0.10.1372)

This item shows the ME FW version.

Press <Esc> to return to the Chipset Menu page.

Enable/Disable ME Firmware

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

M.I.B. III (MB Intelligent BIOS III) Menu

This page enables you to set the clock speed and system bus for your system. The clock speed and system bus are determined by the kind of processor you have installed in your system.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

M.I.B. III (MB Intelligent BIOS III)

CPU OverClocking Configuration

North Bridge Configuration Memory Configuration Over Voltage Configuration

Spread Spectrum

Enabled

Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-4765T CPU @ 2.00GHz Processor Speed 2000 MHz Memory Frequency 1333 MHz Total Memory 4096 MB (DDR3 )

CPU OverClocking Configuration

Scroll to this item to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

CPU Ratio Package Current Lock Disabled IA Core Current Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology Enabled Turbo Mode Enabled Runtime Turbo Enable Disabled Boot performance mode Max Non-Turbo Perfor... Package TDP Lock Enable Disabled Long Duration Power Limit Override Maximum Power Limit 1 Time(Second) 8 Power Limit 2 Switch Enabled Short Duration Power Limit Override Maximum 1 Core Ratio Limit 30 2 Core Ratio Limit 29 3 Core Ratio Limit 27 4 Core Ratio Limit 26 Disable OverClocking Lock Enabled

Maximum

Enable/Disable Spread Spectrum.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.

Enter/Dbl Click : Select F1: General Help

+/- : Change Opt. F2: Previous Values

F1: General Help F3: Optimized Defaults

F2: Previous Values F4: Save & Exit

F3: Optimized Defaults ESC/Right Click: Exit

F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Package Current Lock

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Chapter 3

CPU Ratio (20)

This item allows users to control non trubo CPU ratio.

Package Current Lock (Disabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the package current lock.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

IA Core Current (Maximum)

This item allows you to set IA Core Current Max.

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (Enabled)

This item allows users to enable or disable the EIST (Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology).

Turbo Mode (Enabled)

This item allows you to control the Intel Turbo Boost Technology.

Runtime Turbo Enable (Disabled)

This item shows CPU supports runtime turbo or not.

Boot Performance Mode (Max Non-Turbo Perfor...)

Chapter 3

Use this item to select the performance state that the BIOS will set before OS handoff.

Package TDP Lock Enable (Disabled)

These items allows you to enable or disable the package TDP Lock.

Long Duration Power Limit Override (Maxmium)

Intel(R) Turbo Boost Technology will use this power limit during the long duration power limit time window.

Power Limit 1 Time (Second) (8)

This item allows you to set the power limit 1 time.

Power Limit 2 Switch (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the power limit 2 switch.

Short Duration Power Limit Override (Maxmium)

Intel(R) Turbo Boost Technology will use this power limit for a very short duation. After that, the long duration power limit will be honored.

1 /2 /3 /4 Core Ratio Limit (30/29/27/26)

These items show the Core Ratio Limit Value.

Disable OverClocking Lock (Enabled)

This item allows you to control the OverClocking lock.

Press <Esc> to return to the M.I.B. III Menu page.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL



North Bridge Configuration

Scroll to this item to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Intel Graphics Configuration

Graphics Core Ratio Limit 24

Graphics Core Ratio Limit

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Graphics Core Ratio Limit (24)

This item allows you to control the internal GFX core ratio.

Press <Esc> to return to the M.I.B. III Menu page.

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

 Memory Configuration

Scroll to this item to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Memory Information

Memory RC Version 1.4.0.3 Memory Frequency 1333 Mhz Total Memory 4096 MB (DDR3)

The selection of Memory Profiles which impacts memory sizing behavior.

Memory Profiles Automatic

Chapter 3

Memory Frequency

Timing Default Current Target tCL 9 9 tRCD 9 9 9 tRP 9 9 9 tRAS 24 24 24 NMode 1 1 Auto tWR 10 10 10 tRFC 107 107 107 tRRD 4 4 4 tWTR 5 5 5 tRTP 5 5 5 tCWL 7 7 7 tREFI 5200 5200 5200 tFAW 20 20 20 tWRPRE Auto tCPDED Auto tPRPDEN Auto OdtReadDelay Auto tCKE Auto tCCD

tWPRE tRPRE

1333

Auto Auto

Auto

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select

+/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

tCCD Auto tWPRE Auto tRPRE Auto tRDRD Auto tRDRD_dr Auto tRDRD_dd Auto tRDPDEN Auto CMD_3st Auto tWRRD Auto tWRRD_dr Auto tWRRD_dd Auto tWRWR Auto tWRWR_dr Auto tWRWR_dd Auto tWRPDEN Auto Dec_WRD Auto Scomp Auto TcoComp Auto RcompDrvUp Auto RcomDrvDown Auto LsComp Auto

Enh Interleave Support Enabled RI Support Enabled DLL Weak Lock Support Enabled Mc Lock Enabled CMD Tri-State Enabled Memory Scrambler Enabled MRC Fast Boot Enabled Memory Remap Enabled Memory Thermal Management Enabled DDR PowerDown and idle counter BIOS Refresh 2x Mode Disabled

Enable or disable 2xRef when warm and Hot 2-iNC enables 2xRef when Hot.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Memory RC Version (1.4.0.3)

This item shows the information of the memory RC version.

Memory Frequency (1333 Mhz)

This item shows the information of the memory frequency.

Total Memory (4096 MB (DDR3))

This item shows the information of the total memory.

Memory Profiles (Automatic)

This item enables you to set the memory profiles.

The selection of memory profiles

impacts memory sizing behavior.

Enh Interleave Support (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the Enh Interleave support.

RI Support (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the

Rank Interleave support. NOTE: RI and

HORI can not be enabled at the same time.

DLL Weak Lock Support (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the DLL weak lock support.

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Mc Lock (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable capacity to lock MC registers or not.

CMD Tri-State (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the CMD Tri-State (ending of the training).

Memory Scrambler (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the memory scrambler.

MRC Fast Boot (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the WRC fast boot.

Memory Remap (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the memory remap above 4G.

Memory Thermal Management (Enabled)

Chapter 3

This item allows you to enable or disable the memory thermal management.

DDR PowerDown and Idle counter (BIOS)

This item allows you to BIOS or PCODE the DDR Power Down and Idle counter. BIOS:

BIOS is in countrol of DDR CKE mode and idle timer value. PCODE: pcode will manage the modes.

Refresh 2x Mode (Disabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable

2xRef when Hot.

Press <Esc> to return to the M.I.B. III Menu page.

2xRef when warm and Hot 2-iMC enables

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL



Over Voltage Configuration

Scroll to this item to view the following screen:

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Ch0WriteVref 0.750 V Auto Ch1WriteVref 0.750 V ChVrefCA 0.750 V Auto ChReadVref 0.750 V

Auto

Ch0WriteVref 0-018. Default = 54, 1 Step = 4 mv.

CPU Adaptive Voltage Target(mV) CPU Voltage Mode Adaptive CPU Voltage Offset(mV) 0 Offset Preflx +

RING/Cache Adaptive Voltage Target(mV) 0 RING/Cache Voltage Mode Adaptive RING/Cache Voltage Offset(mV) 0 Offset Prefix +

SVID Control Enable Enabled SVID Override Voltage Target(mV) 0

FIVR Faults Enable Enabled FIVR Efficiency Enable Enabled

GT Adaptive Voltage Target(mV) 0 GT Voltage Mode Adaptive GT Voltage Offset (mV) 0 Offset Prefix +

UNCORE Voltage Offset (mV) 0 Offset Prefix +

IOA Voltage Offset (mV) 0 Offset Prefix +

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Ch0WriteVref 0.750 V (Auto)

This item allows you to adjust the Ch0WriteVref from 0 to 108, and the default is 54, 1 step is 4mV.

Ch1WriteVref 0.750 V (Auto)

This item allows you to adjust the Ch1WriteVref from 0 to 108, and the default is 54, 1 step is 4mV.

ChVrefCA 0.750 V (Auto)

This item allows you to adjust the ChVrefCA from 0 to 108, and the default is 54, 1 step is 4mV.

ChReadVref 0.750 V (Auto)

This item allows you to adjust the ChReadVref from 0 to 108, and the default is 54, 1 step is 4mV.

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

CPU/RING/Cache/GT Adaptive Voltage Target(mV) (0)

This item allows you to adjust the CPU/RING/Cache/GT Adaptive voltage target from 0 to 2000mV.

CPU/RING/Cache/GT Voltage Mode (Adaptive)

This item allows you to set the CPU/RING/Cache/GT voltage mode.

CPU/RING/Cache/GT/UNCORE/IOA/IOD Voltage Offset(mV) (0)

This item allows you to adjust the CPU/RING/Cache/GT/UNCORE/IOA/IOD voltage offset from -1000 to 998mV.

Offset Prefix (-/+)

This item allows you to select the offset value as positive (+) or negative (-).

SVID Control Enable (Enabled)

Chapter 3

This item allows you to enable or disable the SVID control. If this function be disabled, it will not be changed until CPU powers down.

SVID Override Voltage Target(mV) (0)

This item allows you to adjust the SVID override voltage target, up to 2500mV.

FIVR Faults Enable (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the FIVR faults.

it will not be changed until CPU powers down.

FIVR Efficiency Enable (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the FIVR efficiency.

abled, it will not be changed until CPU powers down.

Press <Esc> to return to the M.I.B. III Menu page.

If this function is disabled,

If this function is dis-

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Spread Spectrum (Enabled)

If you enable spread spectrum, it can significantly reduce the EMI (Electro-Magnetic Interference) generated by the system.

Intel(R) Core (TM) i7-4765T CPU @ 2.00GHz

This is display-only field and displays the information of the CPU installed in your computer.

Processor Speed (2000 MHz)

This item shows the CPU speed.

Memory Frequency (1333 MHz)

This item shows the memory frequency.

Total Memory (4096 MB (DDR3))

This item shows the total memory.

Warning: Over-clocking components can adversely affect the reliability of the system and introduce errors into your system. Over-clocking can permanently damage the motherboard by generating excess heat in components that are run beyond the rated limits.

Fail-Safe Procedures for Over-clocking

When end-users encounter failure after attempting over-clocking, please take the following steps to recover from it.

1. Shut down the computer.

2. Press and hold the “Page Up Key (PgUp)” of the keyboard, and then boot the PC up.

3. Two seconds after the PC boots up, release the “Page Up Key (PgUp)”.

4. The BIOS returns to the default setting by itself.

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Boot Menu

This page enables you to set the keyboard NumLock state.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Boot Configuration

Operation System Select Windows 7 or other OS Launch PXE OpROM Disabled Launch Storage OpROM Enabled

Fast Boot Disabled

Chapter 3

Bootup NumLock State Quiet Boot Boot mode select

Set Boot Priority Boot Option #1 Hard Disk Boot Option #2 CD/DVD Boot Option #3 USB/Floppy Boot Option #4 USB CD/DVD Boot Option #5 USB Hard Disk Boot Option #6 USB Flash Boot Option #7 Network

Boot Configuration

This item shows the information of the Boot Configuration.

Operation System Select (Windows 7 or other OS)

This item is used to select the operation system.

Launch PXE OpROM (Disabled)

The item enables or disables launch PXE Option ROM.

Launch Storage OpROM (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable the Storage OpROM.

Fast Boot (Disabled)

This item enables or disables boot with initialization of a minimal set of device required to launch active boot option. Has no effect for BBS boot options.

Bootup NumLock State (On)

This item enables you to select NumLock state.

Quiet Boot

This item enables or disables quiet boot.

Boot mode select (LEGACY)

Use this item to select boot mode.

Set Boot Priority

This item enables you to set boot priority for all boot devices.

Boot Option #1 /2 /3 /4 /5 /6 /7

These items show the boot priorities.

(Enabled)

Enabled

LEGACY

Windows 7 or other OS: Boot policy for Legacy OS.

Windows 8: Boot policy for UEFI OS without Compatibility Support Module(CSM).

Manual: User customized CSM parameters & boot policy.

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Security Menu

This page enables you to set setup administrator password and user password.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Administrator Password Status Not Install User Password Status Not Install

Administrator Password

Set Administrator Password

Platform Mode Setup Secure Boot Disabled

Secure Boot

Disabled

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

Administrator Password Status (Not Install)

This item shows administrator password installed or not.

User Password Status (Not Install)

This item shows user password installed or not.

Platform Mode (Setup)

This item allows you to set the platform mode.

Secure Boot (Disabled)

This item is used to control the secure boot flow, it is possible only if system runs in User Mode.

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Exit Menu

This page enables you to exit system setup after saving or without saving the changes.

Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. III Boot Security Exit

Back to EZ Mode

Save Changes and Exit Discard Changes and Exit Save Changes and Reset Discard Changes and Reset

Chapter 3

Save Options Save Changes Discard Changes

Restore Defaults Save as User Defaults Restore User Defaults

Boot Override

Back to EZ Mode

This item enables you to back to EZ mode.

Save Changes and Exit

This item enables you to exit

Discard Changes and Exit

This item enables you to exit system setup without saving any changes.

Save Changes and Reset

This item enables you to reset system setup after saving the changes.

Discard Changes and Reset

This item enables you to reset system setup without saving any changes.

Save Options

This item enables you to save the options that you have made.

Save Changes

This item enables you to save the changes that you have made.

Discard Changes

This item enables you to discard any changes that you have made.

Restore Defaults

This item enables you to restore defaults to all the setup options.

Save as User Defaults

This item enables you to save the changes that you have made as user defaults.

Restore User Defaults

This item enables you to restore the user defaults.

Boot Override

Use this item to select the boot device.

Go back to EZ Mode

: Select Screen

/Click: Select Item

Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit ESC/Right Click: Exit

t the system setup after saving the changes.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Updating the BIOS

You can download and install updated BIOS for this motherboard from the manufacturer’s Website. New BIOS provides support for new peripherals, improvements in performance, or fixes for known bugs. Install new BIOS as follows:

1 If your motherboard has a BIOS protection jumper, change the setting to

allow BIOS flashing.

2 If your motherboard has an item called Firmware Write Protect in Ad-

vanced BIOS features, disable it. (Firmware Write Protect prevents BIOS from being overwritten.)

3 Prepare a bootable device or create a bootable system disk. (Refer to

Windows online help for information on creating a bootable system disk.)

4 Download the Flash Utility and new BIOS file from the manufacturer’s

Web site. Copy these files to the bootable device.

5 Turn off your computer and insert the bootable device in your computer.

(You might need to run the Setup Utility and change the boot priority items on the Advanced BIOS Features Setup page, to force your computer to boot from the bootable device first.)

6 At the C:\ or A:\ prompt, type the Flash Utility program name and the file

name of the new BIOS and then press <Enter>. Example: AFUDOS.EXE

040706.ROM

7 When the installation is complete, remove the bootable device from the

computer and restart your computer. If your motherboard has a Flash BIOS jumper, reset the jumper to protect the newly installed BIOS from being overwritten. The computer will restart automatically.

This concludes Chapter 3. Refer to the next chapter for information on the software supplied with the motherboard.

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Memo

Chapter 3

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 4

Using the Motherboard Software

Auto-installing under Windows XP/7/8

The auto-install DVD-ROM makes it easy for you to install the drivers and software. The support software DVD-ROM disc loads automatically under Windows XP/7/8. When you insert the DVD-ROM disc in the DVD-ROM drive, the auto-run feature will automatically bring up the installation screen. The screen has four buttons on it:

Setup, Utilities, Browse CD and Exit.

Information:

Displays the path for all software and drivers available on the disk.

Click “Exit” button to close the Auto-Setup

window.

Browse CD:

Open Windows Explorer and show the contents

Click the “Setup” button to select and run the software installation program.

Click the “Utilities” button to select and install ECS Intelligent Utility.

of the support disk.

Chapter 4

Running Setup

Follow these instructions to install device drivers and software for the motherboard:

1. Click Setup. The installation program begins:

The following screens are examples only. The screens and driver lists will be different according to the motherboard you are installing.

The motherboard identification is located in the upper left-hand corner.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

2. Click Next. The following screen appears:

3. Check the box next to the items you want to install. The default options are recommended.

4. Click Next to run the Installation Wizard. An item installation screen appears:

Chapter 4

5. Follow the instructions on the screen to install the items.

Drivers and software are automatically installed in sequence. Follow the onscreen instructions, confirm commands and allow the computer to restart a few times to complete the installation.

Windows 8 will show the following screen after system restart, you must select “Desktop” in the bottom left to install the next driver.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Windows 7/8 will appear below UAC (User Account Control) message after the system restart. You must select “Yes” to install the next driver. Continue

this process to complete the drivers installation.

Manual Installation

If the auto-install DVD-ROM does not work on your system, you can still install drivers through the file manager for your OS (for example, Windows Explorer).

for the chipset and motherboard model, and then browse to the directory and path to begin installing the drivers. Most drivers have a setup program (SETUP.EXE) that automatically detects your operating system before installation. Other drivers have the setup program located in the operating system subfolder.

If the driver you want to install does not have a setup program, browse to the operating system subfolder and locate the readme text file (README.TXT or README.DOC) for information on installing the driver or software for your operating system.

Look

Chapter 4

ECS Utility Software (Intelligent EZ Utility)

ECS Intelligent EZ Utility provides friendly interfaces under Windows O.S, which makes your computing more easily and conveniently.

These software(s) are subject to change at anytime without prior notice. Please refer to the support disk for available software.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

eSF

eSF(Smart Fan) utility provides easy and safe way to adjust fan speed in accordance with your PC’s system loading and temperature.

It has five modes to adjust fan speed in a safe range without entering the BIOS to optimize your system cooling environment.

Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 is required.

Chapter 4

eDLU

ECS eDLU utility makes updating drivers fast and easy. eDLU saves time and hassle by listing all the latest drivers online. Just select the one you prefer and start to download and install the drivers.

eBLU

ECS eBLU utility makes BIOS update faster and easier. eBLU will list the latest BIOS with a default check-mark. Click”install” button to install.

Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 is required.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 5

AMD CrossFireXTM Technology Support

This motherboard supports the AMD CrossFireXTMTechnology that allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section.

Requirements

1 Two identical CrossFireXTM ready graphic cards are needed for the setup

of 2-way CrossFireX 2 You would need one CrossfireX 3 Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the AMD CrossFireX

technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website

(www.amd.com). 4 Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the mini-

mum power required by your system.

Installing CrossFireXTM graphics cards

1. Insert the CrossFireXTMgraphics cards into the PCIEX16/PCIEX16_S slots. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot.

2. Connect the cable from your monitors to the CrossFireX installed on the PCIE16X slot.

configuration.

bridge cable.

ready graphics card

Monitor Cable

* For reference only

3. Connect an auxiliary power source from the power supply to the graphics cards.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 5

The CatalystTM Control Center Dialog Box

To enable CrossFireXTM:

• Install AMD graphic card driver.

• Enter the Catalyst Control Center Dialog Box.

• check the “Enable CrossFireX

• Click Apply button.

” item.

Chapter 5

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 6

Trouble Shooting

Start up problems during assembly

After assembling the PC for the first time you may experience some start up problems. Before calling for technical support or returning for warranty, this chapter may help to address some of the common questions using some basic troubleshooting tips. You may also log onto our ECS website for more information:

http:// www.ecs.com.tw/ECSWebSite/Support/Support_FAQ.aspx?MenulD=49& childid=M 49&LanlD=0

a) System does not power up and the fans are not running.

1. Disassemble the PC to remove the VGA adaptor card, DDR memory, LAN, USB and other peripherals including keyboard and mouse. Leave only the motherboard, CPU with CPU cooler and power supply connected. Make sure the power cord is plugged into the wall socket & the switch on the Power Supply Unit (PSU) is turned “ on “ as well. Turn on again to see if the CPU and power supply fans are running.

2. Make sure to remove any unused screws or other metal objects such as screwdrivers from the inside PC case. This is to prevent damage from short circuit.

3. Check the CPU FAN connector is connected to the motherboard.

4. For Intel platforms check the pins on the CPU socket for damage or bent. A bent pin may cause failure to boot and sometimes permanent damage from short circuit.

5. Check the 12V power connector is connected to the motherboard.

6. Check that the 12V power & ATX connectors are fully inserted into the motherboard connectors. Make sure the latches of the cable and connector are locked into place.

b) Power is on, fans are running but there is no display

1. Make sure the monitor is turned on and the monitor cable is properly connected to the PC.

2. Check the VGA adapter card (if applicable) is inserted properly.

3. Listen for beep sounds. If you are using internal PC speaker make sure it is connected. a. continuous 3 short beeps: memory not detected b. 1 long beep and 8 short beeps: VGA not detected

c) The PC suddenly shuts down while booting up.

1. The CPU may experience overheating so it will shutdown to protect itself. Apply the thermal grease onto the CPU heatsink & ensure the CPU fan is well-connected with the CPU heatsink. Check if the CPU fan is working properly while the system is running.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Chapter 6

2. From the BIOS setting, try to disable the Smartfan function to let the fan run at default speed. Doing a Load Optimised Default will also disable the Smartfan.

Start up problems after prolong use

After a prolong period of use your PC may experience start up problems again. This may be caused by breakdown of devices connected to the motherboard such as HDD, CPU fan, etc. The following tips may help to revive the PC or identify the cause of failure.

1. Clear the CMOS values using the CLR_CMOS jumper. Refer to CLR_CMOS jumper in Chapter 2 for Checking Jumper Settings in this user manual. When completed, follow up with a Load Optimised Default in the BIOS setup.

2. Check the CPU cooler fan for dust. Long term accumulation of dust will reduce its effectiveness to cool the processor. Clean the cooler or replace a new one if necessary.

3. Check that the 12V power & ATX connectors are fully inserted into the motherboard connectors. Make sure the latches of the cable and connector are locked into place.

4. Remove the hard drive, optical drive or DDR memory to determine which of these components may be at fault.

5. Check whether there is any bulked up electrolytic capacitor or abnormal component.

Please logo onto our ECS website: http://www.ecs.com.tw/ECSWebSite/Support/ Technical_Support_List.aspx?MenuID=50&LanID=0 for more information.

Maintenance and care tips

Your computer, like any electrical appliance, requires proper care and maintenance. Here are some basic PC care tips to help prolong the life of the motherboard and keep it running as best as it can.

1. Keep your computer in a well ventilated area. Leave some space between the PC and the wall for sufficient airflow.

2. Keep your computer in a cool dry place. Avoid dusty areas, direct sunlight and

Chapter 6

areas of high moisture content.

3. Routinely clean the CPU cooler fan to remove dust and hair.

4. In places of hot and humid weather you should turn on your computer once every other week to circulate the air and prevent damage from humidity.

5. Add more memory to your computer if possible. This not only speeds up the system but also reduces the loading of your hard drive to prolong its life span.

6. If possible, ensure the power cord has an earth ground pin directly from the wall outlet. This will reduce voltage fluctuation that may damage sensitive devices.

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

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Chapter 6

H81H3-A3 USER MANUAL

Elitegroup H81H3-A3 User Manual V1.0

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual