Fatal1ty Z77 Professional User Manual

Fatal1ty Story

Who knew that at age 19, I would be a World Champion PC gamer. When I was 13, I
actually played competitive billiards in professional tournaments and won four or five
games off guys who played at the highest level. I actually thought of making a career
of it, but at that young age situations change rapidly. Because I’ve been blessed with
great hand-eye coordination and a grasp of mathematics (an important element in video
gaming) I gravitated to that activity.

GOING PRO

I started professional gaming in 1999 when I entered the CPL (Cyberathlete Professional
League) tournament in Dallas and won $4,000 for coming in third place. Emerging as one
of the top players in the United States, a company interested in sponsoring me fl ew me
to Sweden to compete against the top 12 players in the world. I won 18 straight games,
lost none, and took fi rst place, becoming the number one ranked Quake III player in the
world in the process. Two months later I followed that success by traveling to Dallas
and defending my title as the world’s best Quake III player, winning the $40,000 grand
prize. From there I entered competitions all over the world, including Singapore, Korea,
Germany, Australia, Holland and Brazil in addition to Los Angeles, New York and St.
Louis.

WINNING STREAK

I was excited to showcase my true gaming skills when defending my title as CPL
Champion of the year at the CPL Winter 2001 because I would be competing in a totally
different first person shooter (fps) game, Alien vs. Predator II. I won that competition
and walked away with a new car. The next year I won the same title playing Unreal
Tournament 2003, becoming the only three-time CPL champion of the year. And I did it
playing a different game each year, something no one else has ever done and a feat of
which I am extremely proud.

At QuakeCon 2002, I faced off against my rival ZeRo4 in one of the most highly
anticipated matches of the year, winning in a 14 to (-1) killer victory. Competing at
Quakecon 2004, I became the World’s 1st Doom3 Champion by defeating Daler in a
series of very challenging matches and earning $25,000 for the victory.

Since then Fatal1ty has traveled the globe to compete against the best in the world,
winning prizes and acclaim, including the 2005 CPL World Tour Championship in New
York City for a $150,000 fi rst place triumph. In August 2007, Johnathan was awarded the
fi rst ever Lifetime Achievement Award in the four year history of the eSports-Award for
“showing exceptional sportsmanship, taking part in shaping eSports into what it is today
and for being the prime representative of this young sport. He has become the fi gurehead
for eSports worldwide”.

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

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1

LIVIN’ LARGE

Since my fi rst big tournament wins, I have been a “Professional Cyberathlete”, traveling
the world and livin’ large with lots of International media coverage on outlets such as
MTV, ESPN and a 60 Minutes segment on CBS to name only a few. It's unreal - it's crazy.
I’m living a dream by playing video games for a living. I’ve always been athletic and
took sports like hockey and football very seriously, working out and training hard. This
discipline helps me become a better gamer and my drive to be the best has opened the
doors necessary to become a professional.

A DREAM

Now, another dream is being realized – building the ultimate gaming computer, made
up of the best parts under my own brand. Quality hardware makes a huge difference in
competitions…a couple more frames per second and everything gets really nice. It’s all
about getting the computer processing faster and allowing more fl uid movement around
the maps.

My vision for Fatal1ty hardware is to allow gamers to focus on the game without worrying
about their equipment, something I’ve preached since I began competing. I don’t want to
worry about my equipment. I want to be there – over and done with - so I can focus on the
game. I want it to be the fastest and most stable computer equipment on the face of the
planet, so quality is what Fatal1ty Brand products represent.

Johnathan “Fatal1ty” Wendel

English

The Fatal1ty name, Fatal1ty logos and the Fatal1ty likeness are registered trademarks of
Fatal1ty, Inc., and are used under license. © 2011 Fatal1ty, Inc. All rights reserved. All other
trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

2

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

Copyright Notice:

No part of this manual 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.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be regis­tered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for
identifi cation or explanation and to the owners’ benefi t, without intent to infringe.

Disclaimer:

Specifi cations and information contained in this manual are furnished for informa-
tional use only and subject to change without notice, and should not be constructed
as a commitment by us. We assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions
that may appear in this manual.
With respect to the contents of this manual, We do 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 we, 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 we have been advised of the possibility of such damages arising from any defect
or error in the manual 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 Fatal1ty name, Fatal1ty logos and the Fatal1ty likeness are registered trade­marks of Fatal1ty, Inc., and are used under license. © 2010 Fatal1ty, Inc. All rights
reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Fatal1ty website: www.fatal1ty.com

Published December 2011

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

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3

Motherboard Layout

24.4cm (9.6in)

Keyboard/

Mouse

USB3.0

PS2

T:U SB 0
B:USB1

HDMI1

DP1

USB2.0: USB0

USB2.0: USB1

USB2.0: USB2

USB2.0: USB3

Clr

CMOS

USB3.0

Top:

T:U SB 2

RJ-45

B:USB3

IEEE1394

ESATA_1

USB2.0
T:USB4

LAN

B:USB5

PHY

USB3.0

Top:

T:U SB 4

RJ-45

B:USB5

43

42
41

40

39

38

37

36

35

34
33

Top:

Central/Bass

Center:

REAR SPK

Bottom:

Optical

SPDIF

Bottom:

MIC IN

Top:

LINE IN

Center:

FRONT

CD1

LAN
PHY

CHA_FAN2

PWR_FAN1

PCIE1

Z77 PROFESSIONAL

X

X

FLOPPY1

FastLAN

PCIE3

FastRAM

PCIE2

PCI1

PCIE4

ErP/EuPReady

PCI2

FATAL TY

1

PCIE5

IR1

1

1

AUDIO
CODEC

Designedin Taipei

X

FastUSB

Super

I/O

RoHS

1

HDMI_SPDIF1

COM1

HD_AUDIO1

1

1

2

1

3

4

CPU_FAN2

CPU_FAN1

ATX12V1

CMOS

Battery

FRONT_1394

USB8_91USB6_7

CHA_FAN1

CLRCMOS1

1

1

5

DDR3 2800+

DDR3_A2(64 bit, 240-pinmodule)

DDR3_A1(64 bit, 240-pinmodule)

PCI Express3.0

Intel

Z77

Dr.

Debug

CHA_FAN3

6

DDR3_B2(64 bit, 240-pinmodule)

DDR3_B1(64 bit, 240-pinmodule)

Front USB3.0

64Mb
BIOS

SPEAKER1

1

PLEDPWRBTN

1

HDLEDRESET

PANEL1

30.5cm (12.0in)

USB3_6_7

PWRBTN

RSTBTN

ATXPWR1

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

IDE1

ATA3_0_1 SATA3_A1_A2 SATA3_A3_A4

SATA2_4_5 SATA2_2_3 S

PLED1

1

English

31

32

30

1 1155-Pin CPU Socket
2 ATX 12V Power Connector (ATX12V1)
3 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1)
4 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN2)
5 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots
(DDR3_A1, DDR3_B1, Red)
6 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots
(DDR3_A2, DDR3_B2, Black)
7 ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1)
8 Primary IDE Connector (IDE1, Black)
9 USB 3.0 Header (USB3_6_7, Black)
10 Intel Z77 Chipset
11 SATA3 Connectors (SATA3_A3_A4, Red)
12 SATA3 Connectors (SATA3_A1_A2, Red)
13 SATA3 Connectors (SATA3_0_1, Red)
14 SATA2 Connectors (SATA2_2_3, Black)
15 SATA2 Connectors (SATA2_4_5, Black)
16 Power Switch (PWRBTN)
17 Reset Switch (RSTBTN)
18 SPI Flash Memory (64Mb)
19 Power LED Header (PLED1)
20 Chassis Speaker Header (SPEAKER1, Black)
21 System Panel Header (PANEL1, Black)
22 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN3)

4

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

25

28

27

26

29

24

19

2122

20

23

23 Dr. Debug
24 USB 2.0 Header (USB_6_7, Black)
25 USB 2.0 Header (USB_8_9, Black)
26 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1)
27 Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1)
28 Front Panel IEEE 1394 Header
(FRONT_1394, Red)
29 Infrared Module Header (IR1)
30 Floppy Connector (FLOPPY1)
31 COM Port Header (COM1)
32 Front Panel Audio Header
(HD_AUDIO1, Black)
33 HDMI_SPDIF Header
(HDMI_SPDIF1, Black)
34 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE5, Red)
35 PCI Slot (PCI2, Black)
36 PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot (PCIE4, Red)
37 PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slot (PCIE3, Black)
38 PCI Slot (PCI1, Black)
39 PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot (PCIE2, Red)
40 PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slot (PCIE1, Black)
41 Power Fan Connector (PWR_FAN1)
42 Internal Audio Connector: CD1 (Black)
43 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN2)

I/O Panel

19

3

18

4

17

1

1 PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port (Purple/Green) ** 12 Front Speaker (Lime)
2 DisplayPort (DP1) 13 Microphone (Pink)
3 USB 2.0 Ports (USB01) 14 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_45)
* 4 LAN RJ-45 Port 15 IEEE 1394 Port
5 Fatal1ty Mouse Port (USB4) *** 16 eSATA3 Port (ESATA_1)
6 USB 2.0 Port (USB5) 17 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_23)
* 7 LAN RJ-45 Port 18 Clear CMOS Switch (CLRCBTN)
8 Central / Bass (Orange) 19 USB 2.0 Ports (USB23)
9 Rear Speaker (Black) 20 HDMI Port (HDMI1)
10 Optical SPDIF Out Port 21 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_01)
11 Line In (Light Blue)

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

Activity/Link LED SPEED LED

Status Description Status Description

2

2021

LAN Port LED Indications

16

6

5

15

7

14

ACT/LINK
LED

8

9

10

11

12

13

SPEED
LED

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

LAN Port

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.

TABLE for Audio Output Connection

Audio Output Channels Front Speaker Rear Speaker Central / Bass Line in
(No. 12) (No. 9) (No. 8) (No. 11)

2 V -- -- -­4 V V -- -­6 V V V -­8 V V V V

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

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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 fi nd “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.

English

6

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing ASRock Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series 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.
This Quick Installation Guide contains introduction of the motherboard and step-by­step installation guide. More detailed information of the motherboard can be found
in the user manual presented in the Support CD.

Because the motherboard specifi cations and the BIOS software might be
updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without no­tice. In case any modifi cations of this manual occur, the updated version
will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You may fi nd
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 specifi c information about the model you are using.
www.asrock.com/support/index.asp

1.1 Package Contents

ASRock Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard
(ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
ASRock Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Quick Installation Guide
ASRock Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Support CD

6 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
1 x ASRock SLI_Bridge_2S Card

ASRock Reminds You...

To get better performance in Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / Vista
bit, it is recommended to set the BIOS option in Storage Confi guration to
AHCI mode. For the BIOS setup, please refer to the “User Manual” in our
support CD for details.

TM

/ VistaTM 64-

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

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7

English

1.2 Specifications

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

- Premium Gold Capacitor design (100% Japan-made
high-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors)
CPU - Supports 3
LGA1155 Package

- Digi Power Design

- 16 + 8 Power Phase Design

- Supports Intel® Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology

- Supports Intel

- Supports Hyper-Threading Technology (see CAUTION 1)

- Supports Intel® Rapid Start Technology and Smart Connect
Technology with Intel

Chipset - Intel® Z77
Memory - Dual Channel DDR3 Memory Technology (see CAUTION 2)

- 4 x DDR3 DIMM slots

- Supports DDR3 2800+(OC)/2400(OC)/2133(OC)/1866(OC)/
1600/1333/1066 non-ECC, un-buffered memory

- Max. capacity of system memory: 32GB (see CAUTION 3)

- Supports Intel
Expansion Slot - 2 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots (PCIE2/PCIE4: single at x16
(PCIE2) / x8 (PCIE4) or dual at x8/x8 mode)
(see CAUTION 4)
* PCIE 3.0 is only supported with Intel
Intel® Sandy Bridge CPU, it only supports PCIE 2.0.

- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot (PCIE5: x4 mode)

- 2 x PCI Express 2.0 x 1 slots

- 2 x PCI slots

- Supports AMD Quad CrossFireX
CrossFireX

- Supports NVIDIA® Quad SLITM and SLI

Graphics * Intel® HD Graphics Built-in Visuals and the VGA outputs can
be supported only with processors which are GPU
integrated.

- Supports Intel
Sync Video, Intel® InTruTM 3D, Intel® Clear Video HD
Technology, Intel
Intel® Advanced Vector Extensions (AVX)

rd

and 2nd Generation Intel® CoreTM i7 / i5 / i3 in

®

K-Series unlocked CPU

®

Ivy Bridge CPU

®

Extreme Memory Profi le (XMP)1.3/1.2

®

Ivy Bridge CPU. With

TM

TM

®

HD Graphics Built-in Visuals: Intel® Quick

®

InsiderTM, Intel® HD Graphics 2500/4000,

, 3-Way CrossFireXTM and

TM

8

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

- Pixel Shader 5.0, DirectX 11 with Intel® Ivy Bridge CPU.
Pixel Shader 4.1, DirectX 10.1 with Intel® Sandy Bridge
CPU.

- Max. shared memory 1760MB (see CAUTION 5)

- Dual VGA Output: support HDMI and DisplayPort ports by
independent display controllers

- Supports HDMI 1.4a Technology with max. resolution up to
1920x1200 @ 60Hz

- Supports DisplayPort with max. resolution up to 2560x1600
@ 60Hz

- Supports Auto Lip Sync, Deep Color (12bpc), xvYCC and
HBR (High Bit Rate Audio) with HDMI (Compliant HDMI
monitor is required) (see CAUTION 6)

- Supports HDCP function with HDMI and DisplayPort ports

- Supports Full HD 1080p Blu-ray (BD) / HD-DVD playback
with HDMI and DisplayPort ports
Audio - 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection
(Realtek ALC898 Audio Codec)

- Premium Blu-ray audio support

- Supports THX TruStudio

TM

LAN - PCIE x1 Gigabit LAN 10/100/1000 Mb/s

- Broadcom BCM57781

- Supports Wake-On-LAN

- Supports Energy Effi cient Ethernet 802.3az

- Supports Dual LAN with Teaming function

- Supports PXE
Rear Panel I/O I/O Panel

- 1 x PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port

- 1 x HDMI Port

- 1 x DisplayPort

- 1 x Optical SPDIF Out Port

- 5 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports

- 1 x Fatal1ty Mouse Port (USB 2.0)

- 1 x eSATA3 Connector

- 6 x Ready-to-Use USB 3.0 Ports

- 2 x RJ-45 LAN Ports 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)

English

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

9

English

SATA 3 - 2 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors by Intel® Z77, support RAID
(RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, Intel Rapid Storage and
Intel Smart Response Technology), NCQ, AHCI and Hot
Plug functions

- 4 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors by ASMedia ASM1061,
support NCQ, AHCI and “Hot Plug” functions (SATA3_A4
connector is shared with eSATA3 port)

®

USB3.0 - 2 x Rear USB 3.0 ports by Intel

Z77, support USB 1.0/2.0/3.0

up to 5Gb/s

- 4 x Rear USB 3.0 ports by Etron EJ188H, support
USB 1.0/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s

- 1 x Front USB 3.0 header by Intel

®

Z77 (supports 2 USB 3.0

ports), supports USB 1.0/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s
Connector - 4 x SATA2 3.0 Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0,
RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, Intel Rapid Storage and Intel
Smart Response Technology), NCQ, AHCI and Hot Plug
functions

- 6 x SATA3 6.0Gb/s connectors

- 1 x ATA133 IDE connector (supports 2 x IDE devices)

- 1 x Floppy connector

- 1 x IR header

- 1 x COM port header

- 1 x HDMI_SPDIF header

- 1 x IEEE 1394 header

- 1 x Power LED header

- CPU/Chassis/Power FAN connector

- 24 pin ATX power connector

- 8 pin 12V power connector

- CD in header

- Front panel audio connector

- 2 x USB 2.0 headers (support 4 USB 2.0 ports)

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

- 1 x Dr. Debug with LED
Smart Switch - 1 x Clear CMOS Switch with LED

- 1 x Power Switch with LED

- 1 x Reset Switch with LED
BIOS Feature - 64Mb 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

10

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

- CPU Core, IGPU, DRAM, 1.8V PLL, VTT, VCCSA Voltage
Multi-adjustment
Support CD - Drivers, Utilities, AntiVirus Software (Trial Version),
CyberLink MediaEspresso 6.5 Trial, ASRock MAGIX
Multimedia Suite - OEM
Unique Feature - F-Stream (see CAUTION 8)

- ASRock Instant Boot

- ASRock Instant Flash (see CAUTION 9)

- ASRock APP Charger (see CAUTION 10)

- ASRock SmartView (see CAUTION 11)

- ASRock XFast USB (see CAUTION 12)

- ASRock XFast LAN (see CAUTION 13)

- ASRock XFast RAM (see CAUTION 14)

- ASRock Crashless BIOS (see CAUTION 15)

- Lucid Virtu Universal MVP (see CAUTION 16)
* Lucid Virtu Universal MVP can be supported only with
processors which are GPU integrated.

- Hybrid Booster:

- CPU Frequency Stepless Control (see CAUTION 17)

- ASRock U-COP (see CAUTION 18)

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

- Combo Cooler Option (C.C.O.) (see CAUTION 19)

- Good Night LED
Hardware - CPU Temperature Sensing
Monitor - Chassis Temperature Sensing

- CPU/Chassis/Power Fan Tachometer

- CPU/Chassis Quiet Fan (Allows Chassis Fan Speed Auto­ Adjust by CPU Temperature)

- CPU/Chassis Fan Multi-Speed Control

- Voltage Monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3.3V, CPU Vcore
OS - Microsoft

®

Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit /

XP / XP 64-bit compliant (see CAUTION 20)
Certifi cations - FCC, CE, WHQL

- ErP/EuP Ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required)
(see CAUTION 21)

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

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

English

11

English

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
third-party overclocking tools. Overclocking may affect your system’s 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. About the settings of “Hyper Threading Technology”, please check page

73 of the “User Manual” in the support CD.

2. 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 19 for proper installation.

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

tion. You can use ASRock XFast RAM to utilize the memory that Win-

dows® cannot use.

4. Only PCIE2 and PCIE4 slots support Gen 3 speed. To run the PCI Ex­press in Gen 3 speed, please install an Ivy Bridge CPU. If you install a
Sandy Bridge

CPU, the PCI Express will run only at PCI Express Gen 2 speed.

5. The maximum shared memory size is defi ned by the chipset vendor and
is subject to change. Please check Intel
tion.

6. xvYCC and Deep Color are only supported under Windows® 7 64-bit /

7. Deep Color mode will be enabled only if the display supports 12bpc
in EDID. HBR is supported under Windows
VistaTM.

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 5
for proper connection.

8. F-Stream is an all-in-one tool to fi ne-tune different system functions in a
user-friendly interface, which currently includes Hardware Monitor, Fan
Control, Overclocking, OC DNA, Mouse Polling and IES. In the Hardware
Monitor mode, F-Stream shows the major readings of your system. In
Fan Control mode, F-Stream shows the fan speed and temperature for
you to adjust. In Overclocking Control mode, F-Stream allows you to
overclock the CPU frequency for optimal system performance. In OC
DNA mode, you can save your OC settings as a profi le and share them
with your friends. Your friends can then load the OC profi le in to their own
system to get the same OC settings. In Mouse Polling mode, F-Stream

®

website for the latest informa-

®

7 64-bit / 7 / VistaTM 64-bit /

®

7 /

12

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

allows you to adjust the mouse polling rate of the Fatal1ty Mouse port to

add a professional level mouse confi guration. In IES (Intelligent Energy
Saver) mode, the voltage regulator can reduce the number of output
phases to improve effi ciency when the CPU cores are idle without sacri-
fi cing computing performance.

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

10. If you desire a faster, less restricted way of charging your Apple devices,
such as iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch, ASRock has prepared a wonderful so­lution for you - ASRock APP Charger. Simply install the APP Charger

driver, it makes your iPhone charge 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), Sus-

pend to RAM (S3), hibernation mode (S4) or power off (S5). With APP
Charger driver installed, you can easily enjoy the marvelous charging
experience.

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com/Feature/AppCharger/index.asp

11. ASRock SmartView, a new function for internet browsers, is the smart
start page for IE that combines your most visited web sites, your history,
your Facebook friends and your real-time newsfeed into an enhanced
view for a more personal Internet experience. ASRock motherboards are
exclusively equipped with the ASRock SmartView utility that helps you
keep in touch with friends on-the-go. To use ASRock SmartView feature,
please make sure your OS version is Windows
VistaTM 64 bit, and your browser version is IE8.

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com/Feature/SmartView/index.asp

12. ASRock XFast USB can boost USB storage device performance. The
performance may depend on the properties of the device.

13. ASRock XFast LAN provides a faster internet access, which includes
the benefi ts listed below. LAN Application Prioritization: You can confi g-
ure your application’s priority ideally and/or add new programs. Lower
Latency in Game: After setting online game’s priority higher, it can lower
the latency in games. Traffi c Shaping: You can watch Youtube HD videos
and download simultaneously. Real-Time Analysis of Your Data: With
the status window, you can easily recognize which data streams you are
transferring currently.

®

7 / 7 64 bit / VistaTM /

®

. With

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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

13

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14. ASRock XFast RAM is a new function that is included into F-Stream. It

fully utilizes the memory space that cannot be used under Windows® OS
32-bit CPU. ASRock XFast RAM shortens the loading time of previously
visited websites, making web surfi ng faster than ever. And it also boosts
the speed of Adobe Photoshop 5 times faster. Another advantage of AS­Rock XFast RAM is that it reduces the frequency of accessing your SSDs
or HDDs in order to extend their lifespan.

15. ASRock Crashless BIOS allows users to update their BIOS without fear

of failing. If power loss occurs during the BIOS update process, ASRock
Crashless BIOS will automatically fi nish the BIOS update procedure after
regaining power. Please note that BIOS fi les need to be placed in the root
directory of your USB disk. Only USB2.0 ports support this feature.

16. VIRTU Universal MVP includes the base features of Virtu Universal

technology, which virtualizes integrated GPU and discrete GPU for best
of breed functionality. It also features Virtual Vsync™ for no-compromise
visual quality. With the added benefits of HyperFormance technology,
VIRTU Universal MVP improves game performance by intelligently reduc­ing redundant rendering tasks in the fl ow between the CPU, GPU and the
display.

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

18. 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.

19. Combo Cooler Option (C.C.O.) provides the fl exible option to adopt three

different CPU cooler types, Socket LGA 775, LGA 1155 and LGA 1156.
Please be noticed that not all the 775 and 1156 CPU Fan can be used.

20. ASRock XFast RAM is not supported by Microsoft® Windows® XP / XP

64-bit. Intel® Smart Connect Technology and Intel® USB 3.0 ports are not
supported by Microsoft® Windows® VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / XP / XP 64-

bit.

21. EuP stands for Energy Using Product, w

European Union to define the power consumption for the completed
system. According to EuP, the total AC power of the completed system
should be under 1.00W in off mode condition. To meet EuP standards,
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, and the standby power effi ciency should be higher
than 50% under 100 mA current consumption. For EuP ready power sup­ply selection, we recommend you to check with the power supply manu­facturer for more details.

as a provision regulated by the

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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

2. Installation

This is an ATX form factor (12.0” x 9.6”, 30.5 x 24.4 cm) motherboard. Before you
install the motherboard, study the confi guration of your chassis to ensure that the
motherboard fi ts into it.

motherboard. Failure to do so may cause physical injuries to you and
damages to motherboard components.

Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the

2.1 Screw Holes

Place screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the
chassis.

Do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may damage the motherboard.

2.2 Pre-installation Precautions

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

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

2. To avoid damaging the motherboard’s 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 the 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 secure the mother­board to the chassis, please do not over-tighten the screws! Doing
so may damage the motherboard.

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.

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2.3 CPU Installation

For the installation of Intel 1155-Pin CPU,
please follow the steps below.

LoadPlate

LoadLever

Before you insert the 1155-Pin CPU into the socket, please check if the
CPU surface is unclean or if there are any bent pins in the socket. Do
not force to insert the CPU into the socket if above situation is found.
Otherwise, the CPU will be seriously damaged.

Step 1. Open the socket:

Step 1-1. Disengage the lever by pressing it

down and sliding it out of the hook.

Step 1-2. Keep the lever positioned at about

135 degrees in order to flip up the
load plate.

ContactArray

SocketBody

1155-Pin Socket Overview

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Step 2. Remove the PnP Cap (Pick and Place Cap).

1. It is recommended to use the cap tab to handle and avoid kicking
off the PnP cap.

2. This cap must be placed if returning the motherboard for after
service.

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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

Step 3. Insert the 1155-Pin CPU:

Step 3-1. Hold the CPU by the edge which is

marked with a black line.

Step 3-2. Orient the CPU with the IHS (Inte-

grated Heat Sink) up. Locate Pin1
and the two orientation key notches.

orientation key notch

Pin1

orientation key notch 1155-Pin Socket

1155-Pin CPU

For proper inserting, please ensure to match the two orientation key
notches of the CPU with the two alignment keys of the socket.

Step 3-3. Carefully place the CPU into the

socket by using a purely vertical mo­tion.

Step 3-4. Verify that the CPU is within the sock-

et and properly mated to the orient
keys.

black line

alignment key

Pin1

alignment key

Step 4. Close the socket:

Step 4-1. Flip the load plate onto the IHS.
Step 4-2. Press down the load lever, and se-

cure it with the load plate tab under
the retention tab.

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2.4 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

This motherboard is equipped with 1155-Pin socket that supports Intel 1155-Pin
CPUs. Please adopt the type of heatsink and cooling fan compliant with Intel 1155­Pin CPU to dissipate heat. Before you install the heatsink, you need to spray ther­mal interface material between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat dissipa­tion. Ensure 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_
FAN1, see page 4, No. 3 or CPU_FAN2, see page 4. No.4).

For proper installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of your
CPU fan and heatsink.

Below is an example to illustrate the installation of the heatsink for 1155-Pin CPUs.
Step 1. Apply thermal interface material onto the cen-

ter of the IHS on the socket’s surface.

Apply Thermal
Interface Material

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Step 2. Place the heatsink onto the socket. Ensure

that the fan cables are oriented on side closest

Fan cableson side
closest toMB header

to the CPU fan connector on the motherboard
(CPU_FAN1, see page 4, No. 3 or CPU_
FAN2, see page 4. No.4).

Fastener slots
pointing straightout

Step 3. Align fasteners with the motherboard through-

holes.

Step 4. Rotate the fastener clockwise, then press

down on fastener caps with thumb to install
and lock. Repeat with remaining fasteners.

If you press down the fasteners without rotating them clockwise, the
heatsink cannot be secured on the motherboard.

Press Down
(4 Places)

Step 5. Connect fan header with the CPU fan connector on the motherboard.
Step 6. Secure redundant cable with tie-wrap to ensure the cable does not
interfere with fan operation or contact other components.

Please be noticed that this motherboard supports Combo Cooler
Option (C.C.O.), which provides fl exible options to adopt three dif-
ferent CPU cooler types, Socket LGA 775, LGA 1155 and LGA 1156.
The white throughholes are for Socket LGA
1155/1156 CPU fan.

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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

2.5 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 con­fi guration, you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size
and chip-type) DDR3 DIMM pair in the slots: You have to install identical
DDR3 DIMMs in Dual Channel A (DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1; Black slots; see p.4
No. 5) or identical DDR3 DIMMs in Dual Channel B (DDR3_A2 and DDR3_
B2; Black slots; see p.4 No. 6), so that Dual Channel Memory Technology can
be activated. This motherboard also allows you to install four DDR3 DIMMs
for dual channel confi guration, please install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four
slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel Memory Confi guration Table below.

Dual Channel Memory Confi guration

DDR3_A1 DDR3_A2 DDR3_B1 DDR3_B2
(Black Slot) (Black Slot) (Black Slot) (Black Slot)
(1) Populated - Populated ­(2) - Populated - Populated
(3)* Populated Populated Populated Populated

For confi guration (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: DDR3_
A1 and DDR3_B1, or 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
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 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. Some DDR3 1GB double-sided DIMMs with 16 chips may not work
on this motherboard. It is not recommended to install them on this
motherboard.

6. For optimal compatibility and stability while overclocking memory
frequency, it is recommended to install one memory module on
DDR3_B2 slot or two memory modules on DDR3_A2 and DDR3_
B2 slots.

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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

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Installing 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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notch

notch

break

break

The DIMM only fi ts 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.

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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

2.6 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)

There are 2 PCI slots and 5 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 2.0 x1 slot) is used for a PCI Express x1 lane width card,

such as a Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card or ASRock Game Blaster, etc.

PCIE3 (PCIE 2.0 x1 slot) is used for a PCI Express x1 lane width card,

such as a Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card, etc.

PCIE2 (PCIE 3.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x16 lane width

graphics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support
CrossFireX

PCIE4 (PCIE 3.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x8 lane width graph-

ics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support CrossFi­reX

PCIE5 (PCIE 2.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x4 lane width graph-

ics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support 3-Way

CrossFireXTM.

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

2. In CrossFireXTM mode or SLITM mode, please install the PCI Express
x16 graphics cards on PCIE2 and PCIE4 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, PCIE4 and PCIE5 slots. Therefore, PCIE2

and PCIE4 slots will work at x8 bandwidth while PCIE5 slot will work
at x4 bandwidth.

4. Please connect a chassis fan to the motherboard’s chassis fan

connector (CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2 or CHA_FAN3) when using
multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

5. Only PCIE2 and PCIE4 slots support Gen 3 speed. To run the PCI

Express in Gen 3 speed, please install an Ivy Bridge CPU. If you
install a Sandy Bridge CPU, the PCI Express will run only at PCI
Express Gen 2 speed.

TM

or SLITM function.

TM

or SLITM function.

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Installing an expansion card

Step 1. Before installing an 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 fi rmly 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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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

2.7 SLITM and Quad SLI

TM

Operation Guide

This motherboard supports NVIDIA® SLITM and Quad SLITM (Scalable Link Interface)
technology that allows you to install up to two identical PCI Express x16 graphics

®

cards. Currently, NVIDIA

SLITM technology supports Windows® XP / XP 64-bit /
VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit OS. NVIDIA® Quad SLITM technology support
Windows

®

VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit OS only. Please follow the installation

procedures in this section.

Requirements

1. For SLITM technology, you should have two identical SLITM-ready graphics
cards that are NVIDIA® certifi ed. For Quad SLITM technology, you should
have two identical Quad SLITM-ready graphics cards (dual-GPU on each
graphics card) that are NVIDIA® certifi ed.

2. Make sure that your graphics card driver supports NVIDIA® SLITM
technology. Download the driver from NVIDIA
(www.nvidia.com).

3. Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the
minimum power required by your system. It is recommended to use
NVIDIA® certifi ed PSU. Please refer to NVIDIA® website for details.

®

website

2.7.1 Graphics Card Setup

2.7.1.1 Installing Two SLI

TM

-Ready Graphics Cards

Step 1. Install the identical SLITM-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certifi ed

because different types of graphics cards will not work together properly.
(Even the GPU chips version shall be the same.) Insert one graphics card
into PCIE2 slot and the other graphics card to PCIE4 slot. Make sure that
the cards are properly seated on the slots.

Step2. If required, connect the auxiliary power source to the PCI Express
graphics cards.

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23

Step3. Align and insert SLI_Bridge_2S Card to the goldfi ngers on each graphics

card. Make sure SLI_Bridge_2S Card is fi rmly in place.

Step4. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI cable to the monitor connector or the DVI

connector of the graphics card that is inserted to PCIE2 slot.

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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

2.7.2 Driver Installation and Setup

Install the graphics card drivers to your system. After that, you can enable the Multi­Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) feature in the NVIDIA® nView system tray utility.
Please follow the below procedures to enable the multi-GPU feature.

®

For Windows
(For SLITM mode only)

A. Double-click NVIDIA Settings icon on your Windows® taskbar.

B. From the pop-up menu, select Set SLI and PhysX confi guration. In

Set PhysX GPU acceleration item, please select Enabled. In Select
an SLI confi guration item, please select Enable SLI. And click Apply.

XP / XP 64-bit OS:

C. Reboot your system.
D. You can freely enjoy the benefi t of SLI

Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

TM

feature.

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25

For Windows® VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit OS:
(For SLITM and Quad SLITM mode)

A. Click the Start icon on your Windows taskbar.
B. From the pop-up menu, select All Programs, and then click NVIDIA

Corporation.
C. Select NVIDIA Control Panel tab.
D. Select Control Panel tab.

E. From the pop-up menu, select Set SLI and PhysX confi guration. In

Set PhysX GPU acceleration item, please select Enabled. In Select

an SLI confi guration item, please select Enable SLI. And click Apply.

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F. Reboot your system.
G. You can freely enjoy the benefi t of SLITM or Quad SLITM feature.

* SLITM appearing here is a registered trademark of NVIDIA® Technologies Inc., and is used
only for identifi cation or explanation and to the owners’ benefi t, without intent to infringe.

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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

2.8 CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM and Quad
CrossFireXTM Operation Guide

This motherboard supports CrossFireXTM, 3-way CrossFireX

TM

CrossFireX

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, CrossFireX
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 / VistaTM / 7 OS. 3-way CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireX
are supported with Windows

®

VistaTM / 7 OS only. Please check AMD website for

ATITM CrossFireXTM driver updates.

1. If a customer incorrectly confi gures their system they will not see the
performance benefi ts 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
benefi t from the CrossFireX

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.

TM

multi-GPU platform.

TM

and Quad

TM

feature

TM

2.8.1 Graphics Card Setup

2.8.1.1 Installing Two CrossFireX

Different CrossFireXTM cards may require different methods to enable CrossFireXTM
feature. For other CrossFireXTM cards that AMD has released or will release in the
future, please refer to AMD graphics card manuals for detailed installation guide.

TM

-Ready Graphics Cards

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

graphics card to PCIE4 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 DVI connector on the Radeon
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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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard

2.8.1.2 Installing Three CrossFireXTM-Ready Graphics Cards

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

procedures, please refer to section “Expansion Slots”.

Step 2. Install one Radeon graphics card to PCIE4 slot. For the proper installation

procedures, please refer to section “Expansion Slots”.

Step 3. Install one Radeon graphics card to PCIE5 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 PCIE4 slots, and use the other CrossFireTM Bridge to connect Radeon
graphics cards on PCIE4 and PCIE5 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.)

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CrossFireTM Bridge

Step 5. Connect the DVI monitor cable to the DVI connector on the Radeon graph-

ics 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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Fatal1ty Z77 Professional Series Motherboard