Gigabyte G1.SNIPER Z97 Manual

G1.Sniper Z97

User's Manual

Rev. 1001

12ME-G1SNI97-1001R

Motherboard

G1.Sniper Z97

Mar. 28, 2014

Motherboard

G1.Sniper Z97

Mar. 28, 2014

Copyright

© 2014 GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. All rights reserved.

The trademarks mentioned in this manual are legally registered to their respective owners.

Disclaimer

Information in this manual is protected by copyright laws and is the property of GIGABYTE.

Changes to the specifications and features in this manual may be made by GIGABYTE without prior notice.

No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, translated, transmitted, or published in any form or by any means without GIGABYTE's prior written permission.

Documentation Classifications

In order to assist in the use of this product, GIGABYTE provides the following types of

documentations:

For quick set-up of the product, read the Quick Installation Guide included with the product.For detailed product information, carefully read the User's Manual.

For product-related information, check on our website at: http://www.gigabyte.com

Identifying Your Motherboard Revision

The revision number on your motherboard looks like this: "REV: X.X." For example, "REV: 1.0" means the revision of the motherboard is 1.0. Check your motherboard revision before updating motherboard BIOS, drivers, or when looking for technical information.

Example:

Table of Contents

Box Contents....................................................................................................................			6
Optional Items..................................................................................................................			6
G1.Sniper Z97 Motherboard Layout.................................................................................			7
G1.Sniper Z97 Motherboard Block Diagram....................................................................			8
Chapter 1 Hardware Installation......................................................................................			9
1-1	Installation Precautions.....................................................................................		9
1-2	Product Specifications....................................................................................		10
1-3	Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler................................................................		13
1-3-1		Installing the CPU...................................................................................................	13
1-3-2 Installing the CPU Cooler........................................................................................			15
1-4	Installing the Memory......................................................................................		16
1-4-1 Dual Channel Memory Configuration......................................................................			16
1-4-2		Installing a Memory.................................................................................................	17
1-5	Installing an Expansion Card..........................................................................		18
1-6	Setting up AMD CrossFire™/NVIDIA® SLI™ Configuration...............................		19
1-7	Back Panel Connectors..................................................................................		20
1-8	Changing the Operational Amplifier................................................................		22
1-9	Onboard Buttons, Switches, and LEDs..........................................................		22
1-10	Internal Connectors........................................................................................		24
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup...................................................................................................			31
2-1	Startup Screen................................................................................................		32
2-2	The Main Menu...............................................................................................		33
2-3	M.I.T................................................................................................................		36
2-4	System Information.........................................................................................		46
2-5	BIOS Features................................................................................................		47
2-6	Peripherals......................................................................................................		51
2-7	Power Management........................................................................................		54
2-8	Save & Exit.....................................................................................................		56
Chapter 3 Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)...................................................................			57
3-1	Configuring SATA Controllers.........................................................................		57
3-2	Installing the SATA RAID/AHCI Driver and Operating System.......................		69

- 4 -

Chapter 4 Drivers Installation........................................................................................		73
4-1	Chipset Drivers...............................................................................................	73
4-2	Application Software.......................................................................................	74
4-3	Information......................................................................................................	74

Chapter 5 Unique Features...........................................................................................			75
5-1	BIOS Update Utilities......................................................................................		75
	5-1-1 Updating the BIOS with the Q-Flash Utility.............................................................		75
	5-1-2 Updating the BIOS with the @BIOS Utility..............................................................		78
5-2	APP Center.....................................................................................................		79
	5-2-1	EasyTune................................................................................................................	80
	5-2-2	System Information Viewer.....................................................................................	81
	5-2-3	EZ Setup.................................................................................................................	82
	5-2-4	Fast Boot.................................................................................................................	87
	5-2-5	Smart TimeLock......................................................................................................	88
	5-2-6	Smart Recovery 2...................................................................................................	89
	5-2-7	USB Blocker............................................................................................................	91
	5-2-8	Smart Switch...........................................................................................................	92
	5-2-9	Game Controller......................................................................................................	93

Chapter 6 Appendix.......................................................................................................			95
6-1	Qualcomm® Atheros Killer Network Manager		................................................. 95
6-2	Configuring Audio Input and Output................................................................		96
	6-2-1	Configuring 2/5.1-Channel Audio............................................................................	96
	6-2-2	Creative Software Suite..........................................................................................	96
	6-2-3	Configuring S/PDIF Out........................................................................................	100
	6-2-4	Configuring Audio Recording................................................................................	101
	6-2-5 Using the Sound Recorder....................................................................................		103
6-3	Troubleshooting............................................................................................		104
	6-3-1	Frequently Asked Questions ................................................................................	104
	6-3-2	Troubleshooting Procedure...................................................................................	105
6-4	Debug LED Codes........................................................................................		107
Regulatory Statements.............................................................................................			111
Contact Us...............................................................................................................			115

- 5 -

Box Contents

55 G1.Sniper Z97 motherboard

55 Motherboard driver disk

55 User's Manual

55 Quick Installation Guide

55 Four SATA cables

55 Two Velcro cable ties

55 I/O Shield

55 One 2-Way SLI bridge connector

The box contents above are for reference only and the actual items shall depend on the product package you obtain. The box contents are subject to change without notice.

Optional Items

2-port USB 2.0 bracket (Part No. 12CR1-1UB030-6*R)eSATA bracket (Part No. 12CF1-3SATPW-4*R)

3.5" Front Panel with 2 USB 3.0/2.0 ports (Part No. 12CR1-FPX582-2*R)HDMI-to-DVI adapter (Part No. 12CT2-HDMI01-1*R)

COM port cable (Part No. 12CF1-1CM001-3*R)

- 6 -

G1.Sniper Z97 Motherboard Layout

KB_MS_USB	CPU_FAN	RST_SW
	ATX_12V_2X4

COAXIAL

LGA1150

DP_HDMI

USB_DAC

R_USB30

USB30_LAN

Qualcomm®

Atheros Killer

AUDIO

E2201 LAN

PCIEX1_1 SYS_FAN1

TI Burr Brown®	G1.Sniper Z97
OPA2134
	PCIEX16

CMOS_SW

Debug LED (Note)

PW_SW

				SB
				BIOS SW
				ATX
4	2	3	1	F USB30
DDR3	DDR3	DDR3	DDR3

CAP_SW2 CAP_SW1

PCIEX1_2

PCIEX1_3

BAT

PCIEX8

Intel® Z97

5 3 1 SATA3 4 2 0

Creative®	PCI1	PCIe to PCI
Sound Core 3D		Bridge	BIOSM
	PCI2	BIOSB
F_AUDIO
		F_PANEL
	SYS_FAN3	F_USB1
	SYS_FAN2	F_USB2

iTE® Super I/O

CLR_CMOS COMA

(Note) For debug code information, please refer to Chapter 6.

- 7 -

G1.Sniper Z97 Motherboard Block Diagram

2 PCI Express x8

1 PCI Express x16

CPU CLK+/- (100 MHz)

DDR3 1600/1333 MHz

PCIe CLK

or

LGA1150

Dual Channel Memory

(100 MHz)

CPU

HDMI

DisplayPort

x16

x16

DMI 2.0

Switch

FDI

PCI Express Bus

6 SATA 6Gb/s

3 PCI Express x1

LAN

RJ45

7 USB 2.0/1.1

Qualcomm®

Atheros Killer

E2201 LAN

x1

x1

x1

x1

6 USB 3.0/2.0

Intel® Z97

PCI Express Bus

x1

PCIe CLK

Dual BIOS

(100 MHz)

PCIe to PCI Bridge

PCI Bus

iTE®

COM

Super

LPC Bus

I/O

PS/2 KB/Mouse

Creative®

Sound Core

PCI CLK

3D

(33 MHz)

						Center/Subwoofer	Headphone/SpeakerOut	In
								MIC/Line
						SpeakerOut SpeakerOut		OutLine
2
		PCI
						Rear

For detailed product information/limitation(s), refer to "1-2

- 8 -

S/PDIF Out

Product Specifications."

Chapter 1 Hardware Installation

1-1 Installation Precautions

The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can become damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). Prior to installation, carefully read the user's manual and follow these procedures:

•• Prior to installation, make sure the chassis is suitable for the motherboard.

•• Prior to installation, do not remove or break motherboard S/N (Serial Number) sticker or warranty sticker provided by your dealer. These stickers are required for warranty validation.

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

•• When connecting hardware components to the internal connectors on the motherboard, make sure they are connected tightly and securely.

•• When handling the motherboard, avoid touching any metal leads or connectors.

•• It is best to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling electronic components such as a motherboard, CPU or memory. If you do not have an ESD wrist strap, keep your hands dry and first touch a metal object to eliminate static electricity.

•• Prior to installing the motherboard, please have it on top of an antistatic pad or within an electrostatic shielding container.

•• Before unplugging the power supply cable from the motherboard, make sure the power supply has been turned off.

•• Before turning on the power, make sure the power supply voltage has been set according to the local voltage standard.

•• Before using the product, please verify that all cables and power connectors of your hardware components are connected.

•• To prevent damage to the motherboard, do not allow screws to come in contact with the motherboard circuit or its components.

•• Make sure there are no leftover screws or metal components placed on the motherboard or within the computer casing.

•• Do not place the computer system on an uneven surface.

•• Do not place the computer system in a high-temperature environment.

•• Turning on the computer power during the installation process can lead to damage to system components as well as physical harm to the user.

•• If you are uncertain about any installation steps or have a problem related to the use of the product, please consult a certified computer technician.

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Hardware Installation

1-2	Product Specifications
	CPU	Support for Intel® Core™ i7 processors/Intel® Core™ i5 processors/
		Intel® Core™ i3 processors/Intel® Pentium® processors/Intel® Celeron® processors in
		theLGA1150package(GotoGIGABYTE'swebsiteforthelatestCPUsupportlist.)
		L3 cache varies with CPU
	Chipset	Intel® Z97 Express Chipset
	Memory	4 x DDR3 DIMM sockets supporting up to 32 GB of system memory
		* DuetoaWindows32-bitoperatingsystemlimitation,whenmorethan4GBofphysical
		memory is installed, the actual memory size displayed will be less than the size of
		the physical memory installed.

Dual channel memory architecture

Support for DDR3 1600/1333 MHz memory modules

Support for non-ECC memory modules

Support for Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) memory modules

(GotoGIGABYTE'swebsiteforthelatestsupportedmemoryspeedsandmemory modules.)

Onboard		Integrated Graphics Processor:
Graphics		-	1 x DisplayPort, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096x2160@24Hz or
			3840x2160@60Hz
			* Support for DisplayPort 1.2 version.
		-	1 x HDMI port, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096x2160@24Hz or
			2560x1600@60Hz
			* Support for HDMI 1.4a version.
		-	Maximum shared memory of 1 GB
Audio		Creative® Sound Core 3D chip
		TI Burr Brown® OPA2134 operational amplifier
		Support for Sound Blaster Recon3Di
		High Definition Audio
		2/5.1-channel
		Support for S/PDIF Out
LAN		Qualcomm® Atheros Killer E2201 LAN chip (10/100/1000 Mbit)
Expansion Slots		1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x16 (PCIEX16)
			* For optimum performance, if only one PCI Express graphics card is to be installed,
			be sure to install it in the PCIEX16 slot.
		1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x8 (PCIEX8)
			* The PCIEX8 slot shares bandwidth with the PCIEX16 slot. When the PCIEX8 slot
			is populated, the PCIEX16 slot will operate at up to x8 mode.
		(All PCI Express x16 slots conform to PCI Express 3.0 standard.)
		3 x PCI Express x1 slots
		(All PCI Express x1 slots conform to PCI Express 2.0 standard.)
		2 x PCI slots
Multi-Graphics		Support for 2-Way AMD CrossFire™/2-Way NVIDIA® SLI™ Technology
Technology
Storage Interface		Chipset:
		-	6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
		-	Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10

Hardware Installation

- 10 -

USB		Chipset:
		-	6 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (4 ports on the back panel, 2 ports available through
			the internal USB header)
		-	7 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (3 ports on the back panel, 4 ports available through
			the internal USB headers)
Internal		1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector
Connectors		1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
	6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
	1 x CPU fan header
	3 x system fan headers
	1 x front panel header
	1 x front panel audio header
	1 x USB 3.0/2.0 header
	2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
	1 x serial port header
	1 x Clear CMOS jumper
	1 x power button
	1 x reset button
	1 x Clear CMOS button
	2 x BIOS switchs
	2 x audio gain control switches
Back Panel		1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse port
Connectors		1 x coaxial S/PDIF Out connector
	1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector
		1 x DisplayPort
	1 x HDMI port
	4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports
	3 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
	1 x RJ-45 port
	5 x audio jacks (Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out, Rear Speaker Out, Line In/Mic
		In, Line Out, Headphone)
I/O Controller		iTE® I/O Controller Chip
Hardware		System voltage detection
Monitor		CPU/System temperature detection
	CPU/System fan speed detection
		CPU/System overheating warning
	CPU/System fan fail warning
	CPU/System fan speed control

*Whether the fan speed control function is supported will depend on the cooler you install.

- 11 -

Hardware Installation

	BIOS		2 x 64 Mbit flash
		Use of licensed AMI UEFI BIOS
		Support for DualBIOS™
		PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.7, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 2.0
	Unique Features		Support for APP Center
				* Available applications in APP Center may differ by motherboard model. Supported
				functions of each application may also differ depending on motherboard
				specifications.
			-	@BIOS
			-	EasyTune
			-	EZ Setup
			-	Fast Boot
			-	Game Controller
			-	ON/OFF Charge
			-	Smart TimeLock
			-	Smart Recovery 2
			-	System Information Viewer
			-	USB Blocker
			Support for Q-Flash
		Support for Smart Switch
		Support for Xpress Install
	Bundled		Norton® Internet Security (OEM version)
	Software		Intel® Rapid Start Technology
		Intel® Smart Connect Technology
		Intel® Smart Response Technology
	Operating	Support for Windows 8.1/8/7
	System
	Form Factor		ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 23.3cm

*GIGABYTE reserves the right to make any changes to the product specifications and product-related information without prior notice.

*Please visit the Support & Downloads\Utility page on GIGABYTE's website to check the supported operating system(s) for the software listed in the "Unique Features" and "Bundled Software" columns.

Hardware Installation

- 12 -

1-3	Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler
	Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:
	••	Make sure that the motherboard supports the CPU.
		(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
	••	Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the
		CPU to prevent hardware damage.
	••	Locate the pin one of the CPU. The CPU cannot be inserted if oriented incorrectly. (Or you may
		locate the notches on both sides of the CPU and alignment keys on the CPU socket.)
	••	Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the CPU.
	••	Do not turn on the computer if the CPU cooler is not installed, otherwise overheating and damage
		of the CPU may occur.
	••	Set the CPU host frequency in accordance with the CPU specifications. It is not recommended
		that the system bus frequency be set beyond hardware specifications since it does not meet the
		standard requirements for the peripherals. If you wish to set the frequency beyond the standard
		specifications, please do so according to your hardware specifications including the CPU, graphics
		card, memory, hard drive, etc.

1-3-1 Installing the CPU

A. Locate the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU.

	LGA1150 CPU Socket
Alignment	Alignment
Key	Key

Pin One Corner of the CPU Socket

	LGA1150 CPU
Notch	Notch

Triangle Pin One Marking on the CPU

- 13 -

Hardware Installation

B. Follow the steps below to correctly install the CPU into the motherboard CPU socket.

• Before installing the CPU, make sure to turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the CPU.

•To protect the socket contacts, do not remove the protective plastic cover unless the CPU is inserted into the CPU socket. Save the cover properly and replace it if the CPU is removed.

Step 1:

Gently press the CPU socket lever handle down and away from the socket with your finger. Then completely lift the CPU socket lever and the metal load plate/plastic cover will be lifted as well.

Step 3:

Once the CPU is properly inserted, carefully replace the load plate. When replacing the load plate, make sure the front end of the load plate is under the shoulder screw. Then press the CPU socket lever. The protective plastic cover may pop off from the load plate during the process of engaging the lever. Remove the cover. (Save the cover properly and always replace it when the

CPU is not installed.)

Step 2:

Hold the CPU with your thumb and index fingers.Align the CPU pin one marking (triangle) with the pin one corner of the CPU socket (or you may align the CPU notches with the socket alignment keys) and gently insert the CPU into position.

Step 4:

Finally, secure the lever under its retention tab to complete the installation of the CPU.

NOTE:

Hold the CPU socket lever by the handle, not the lever base portion.

Hardware Installation

- 14 -

1-3-2 Installing the CPU Cooler

Follow the steps below to correctly install the CPU cooler on the motherboard.

Step 1:

Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the installed CPU.

Step 3:

Place the cooler atop the CPU, aligning the four push pins through the pin holes on the motherboard. Push down on the push pins diagonally.

						Male
Direction of						Push Pin
the Arrow Sign						The Top
on the Male
						of Female
Push Pin
						Push Pin
						Female
						Push Pin

Step 2:

Before installing the cooler, note the direction of the arrow signonthemalepushpin.(Turningthe push pin along the direction of arrow is to remove the cooler, on the contrary, is to install.)

Step 4:

You should hear a "click" when pushing down each push pin. Check that the Male and Female push pins are joined closely.

(Refer to your CPU cooler installation manual for instructions on installing the cooler.)

Step 5:

After the installation, check the back of the motherboard. If the push pin is inserted as the picture above shows, the installation is complete.

Step 6:

Finally, attach the power connector of the CPU cooler to the CPU fan header (CPU_FAN) on the motherboard.

Use extreme care when removing the CPU cooler because the thermal grease/tape between the CPU cooler and CPU may adhere to the CPU. Inadequately removing the CPU cooler may damage the CPU.

- 15 -

Hardware Installation

1-4 Installing the Memory

Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the memory:

•• Make sure that the motherboard supports the memory. It is recommended that memory of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used.

(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest supported memory speeds and memory modules.)

•• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the memory to prevent hardware damage.

•• Memory modules have a foolproof design. A memory module can be installed in only one direction. If you are unable to insert the memory, switch the direction.

1-4-1 Dual Channel Memory Configuration

This motherboard provides four DDR3 memory sockets and supports Dual Channel Technology. After the memory is installed, the BIOS will automatically detect the specifications and capacity of the memory. Enabling

Dual Channel memory mode will double the original memory bandwidth.

The four DDR3 memory sockets are divided into two channels and each channel has two memory sockets as following:

Channel A: DDR3_2, DDR3_4Channel B: DDR3_1, DDR3_3

Dual Channel Memory Configurations Table

	DDR3_4 DDR3_2		DDR3_3	DDR3_1
Two Modules	- -	DS/SS	- -	DS/SS
	DS/SS	- -	DS/SS	- -
Four Modules	DS/SS	DS/SS	DS/SS	DS/SS

(SS=Single-Sided, DS=Double-Sided, "- -"=No Memory)

DDR3_1

DDR3_3

DDR3_2

DDR3_4

Due to CPU limitations, read the following guidelines before installing the memory in Dual Channel mode.

1.Dual Channel mode cannot be enabled if only one DDR3 memory module is installed.

2.When enabling Dual Channel mode with two or four memory modules, it is recommended that memory of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used and installed in the same colored DDR3 sockets. For optimum performance, when enabling Dual Channel mode with two memory modules, we recommend that you install them in the DDR3_1 and DDR3_2 sockets.

Hardware Installation

- 16 -

1-4-2 Installing a Memory

Before installing a memory module, make sure to turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the memory module. DDR3 and DDR2 DIMMs are not compatible to each other or DDR DIMMs. Be sure to install DDR3 DIMMs on this motherboard.

Notch

DDR3 DIMM

ADDR3 memory module has a notch, so it can only fit in one direction. Follow the steps below to correctly install your memory modules in the memory sockets.

Step 1:

Note the orientation of the memory module. Spread the retaining clip at the right end of the memory socket. Place the memory module on the socket. As indicated in the picture on the left, place your fingers on the top edge of the memory, push down on the memory and insert it vertically into the memory socket.

Step 2:

The clip at the right end of the socket will snap into place when the memory module is securely inserted.

- 17 -

Hardware Installation

1-5 Installing an Expansion Card

Read the following guidelines before you begin to install an expansion card:

•• Make sure the motherboard supports the expansion card. Carefully read the manual that came with your expansion card.

•• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing an expansion card to prevent hardware damage.

PCI Express x1 Slot

PCI Express x16 Slot

PCI Slot

Follow the steps below to correctly install your expansion card in the expansion slot.

1.Locate an expansion slot that supports your card. Remove the metal slot cover from the chassis back panel.

2.Align the card with the slot, and press down on the card until it is fully seated in the slot.

3.Make sure the metal contacts on the card are completely inserted into the slot.

4.Secure the card's metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw.

5.After installing all expansion cards, replace the chassis cover(s).

6.Turn on your computer. If necessary, go to BIOS Setup to make any required BIOS changes for your expansion card(s).

7.Install the driver provided with the expansion card in your operating system.

Example: Installing and Removing a PCI Express Graphics Card:

•• Installing a Graphics Card:

Gently push down on the top edge of the card until it is fully inserted into the PCI Express slot. Make sure the card is securely seated in the slot and does not rock.

•• Removing the Card:

Gently push back on the lever on the slot and then lift the card straight out from the slot.

Hardware Installation

- 18 -

1-6 Setting up AMD CrossFire™/NVIDIA® SLI™ Configuration

A.System Requirements

-- Windows 8.1/8/7 operating system

-- A CrossFire/SLI-supported motherboard with two PCI Express x16 slots and correct driver -- CrossFire/SLI-ready graphics cards of identical brand and chip and correct driver

-- CrossFire(Note)/SLI bridge connectors

-- A power supply with sufficient power is recommended (Refer to the manual of your graphics cards for the power requirement)

B.Connecting the Graphics Cards

Step 1:

Observe the steps in "1-5 Installing an Expansion Card" and install CrossFire graphics cards on the PCIEX16 and PCIEX8 slots.

Step 2:

Insert the CrossFire(Note)/SLI bridge connectors in the CrossFire/SLI gold edge connectors on top of the cards.

Step 3:

Plug the display cable into the graphics card on the PCIEX16 slot.

C. Configuring the Graphics Card Driver

C-1. To Enable CrossFire Function

After installing the graphics card driver in the operating system, go to the AMD Catalyst Control Center. Browse to Performance\AMD

CrossFireX™ Configuration and ensure the Enable CrossFireX™ check box is selected. And click Apply.

C-2. To Enable SLI Function

After installing the graphics card driver in the operating system, go to the NVIDIA Control Panel. Browse to the Configure SLI, Surround, Physx screen and ensure Maximize 3D performance is enabled.

(Note) The bridge connector(s) may be needed or not depending on your graphics cards.

Procedure and driver screen for enabling CrossFire/SLI technology may differ by graphics cards and driver version. Refer to the manual that came with your graphics cards for more information about enabling CrossFire/SLI technology.

- 19 -

Hardware Installation

1-7 Back Panel Connectors

USB 2.0/1.1 Port

The USB port supports the USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Use this port for USB devices such as a USB keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB flash drive and etc.

PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port

Use this port to connect a PS/2 mouse or keyboard.

Coaxial S/PDIF Out Connector

This connector provides digital audio out to an external audio system that supports digital coaxial audio. Before using this feature, ensure that your audio system provides a coaxial digital audio in connector.

DisplayPort

DisplayPort delivers high quality digital imaging and audio, supporting bi-directional audio transmission. DisplayPort can support both DPCP and HDCP content protection mechanisms. You can use this port to connect your DisplayPort-supported monitor. The maximum supported resolution is 4096x2160@24Hz or 3840x2160@60Hz, but the actual resolutions supported are dependent on the monitor being used.

After installing the DisplayPort device, make sure the default device for sound playback is the

DisplayPort device. (The item name may differ from operating system. Refer to the HDMI settings information on the previous page for the configuration dialog box.)

HDMI Port

The HDMI port is HDCP compliant and supports Dolby True HD and DTS HD

MasterAudioformats.Italsosupportsupto192KHz/24bit8-channelLPCMaudio output. You can use this port to connect your HDMI-supported monitor. The maximum supported resolution is 4096x2160@24 Hz or 2560x1600@60Hz, but the actual resolutions supported are dependent on the monitor being used.

After installing the HDMI device, make sure to set the default sound playback device to HDMI.

(The item name may differ depending on your operating system. The screenshot below is from Windows 8.1.)

In Windows 8.1, select Apps>Control Panel>Hardware and Sound>Sound>Playback, set Intel(R) DisplayAudio to the default playback device.

Hardware Installation

- 20 -

USB 2.0/1.1 Port

The USB port supports the USB 2.0/1.1 specification. You can connect a USB DAC to this port or use this port for USB devices such as a USB keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB flash drive and etc.

USB 3.0/2.0 Port

The USB 3.0 port supports the USB 3.0 specification and is compatible to the USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Use this port for USB devices such as a USB keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB flash drive and etc.

RJ-45 LAN Port

The Gigabit Ethernet LAN port provides Internet connection at up to 1 Gbps data rate. The following describes the states of the LAN port LEDs.

Connection/

Connection/Speed LED:

Activity LED:

Speed LED

Activity LED

State

Description

State

Description

Orange

1 Gbps data rate

Blinking

Data transmission or receiving is occurring

Green

100 Mbps data rate

Off

No data transmission or receiving is occurring

Off

10 Mbps data rate

LAN Port

Line In/Mic In Jack

The line in/Mic in jack. Use this audio jack for line in devices such as optical drive, walkman, microphone, etc.

Line In

The line out jack. Use this audio jack for a 2-channel speaker. This jack can be used to connect front speakers in a 5.1-channel audio configuration.

Optical S/PDIF Out Connector

This connector provides digital audio out to an external audio system that supports digital optical audio. Before using this feature, ensure that your audio system provides an optical digital audio in connector.

Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out Jack

Use this audio jack to connect center/subwoofer speakers in a 5.1-channel audio configuration.

Rear Speaker Out

Use this audio jack to connect rear speakers in a 5.1-channel audio configuration.

Headphone/Speaker Out Jack

This audio output jack supports audio amplifying function. For better sound quality, it is recommended that you connect your headphone/speaker to this jack.

Refertotheinstructionsonsettingupa2/5.1-channelaudioconfiguration inChapter6,"Configuring

2/5.1-Channel Audio."

•• When removing the cable connected to a back panel connector, first remove the cable from your device and then remove it from the motherboard.

•• When removing the cable, pull it straight out from the connector. Do not rock it side to side to prevent an electrical short inside the cable connector.

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Hardware Installation

1-8 Changing the Operational Amplifier

Step 1:

Use an IC extractor to carefully grip the IC's sides and extract it from the socket.

Step 2:

Align the notch on your OP chip with the notch on the socket and gently press the chip into the socket until seated.

For purchasing the IC extractor and OP Chip, please contact the local dealer.

1-9 Onboard Buttons, Switches, and LEDs

BIOS Switch:

TheBIOSswitch (BIOS_SW) allows users toeasily select adifferentBIOS forboot uporoverclocking, helping to reduce BIOS failure during overclocking. The SB switch allows enabling or disabling of the Dual BIOS function.

SB BIOS_SW

BIOS_SW

2

1: Main BIOS (Boot from the main BIOS)

1

2

2: Backup BIOS (Boot from the backup BIOS)

1

SB

2

1: Dual BIOS

1

2

2: Single BIOS

1

Hardware Installation

- 22 -

Quick Buttons

This motherboard has 3 quick buttons: power button, reset button and clear CMOS button. The power button and reset button allow users to quickly turn on/off or reset the computer in an open-case environment when they want to change hardware components or conduct hardware testing. Use this button to clear the BIOS configuration and reset the CMOS values to factory defaults when needed.

RST_SW CMOS_SW

PW_SW

PW_SW: Power button RST_SW: Reset button CMOS_SW: Clear CMOS Button

•• Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before clearing the CMOS values.

•• NOTE: Do not use the clear CMOS button when the system is on, or the system may shutdown and data loss or damage may occur.

•• Aftersystemrestart,gotoBIOSSetuptoloadfactorydefaults(selectLoadOptimizedDefaults)or manuallyconfiguretheBIOSsettings(refertoChapter2,"BIOSSetup,"forBIOSconfigurations).

Audio Gain Control Switches

The two switches allow for audio gain control for your headphone. Please make sure the two switches are set in the same position and are set according to your headphone specification.

CAP_SW2 (Left Channel) CAP_SW1 (Right Channel)

2	2
1		1

1:2.5x (Default)

2:6x

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Hardware Installation

1-10 Internal Connectors

1		3

2

4

9

5 8

12

7

4

4

10

6

11

1)	ATX_12V_2X4	7)	F_AUDIO
2)	ATX	8)	BAT
3)	CPU_FAN	9)	F_USB30
4)	SYS_FAN1/2/3	10)	F_USB1/F_USB2
5)	SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5	11)	COMA
6)	F_PANEL	12)	CLR_CMOS

Read the following guidelines before connecting external devices:

•• First make sure your devices are compliant with the connectors you wish to connect.

•• Before installing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the devices.

•• After installing the device and before turning on the computer, make sure the device cable has been securely attached to the connector on the motherboard.

Hardware Installation

- 24 -

1/2) ATX_12V_2X4/ATX (2x4 12V Power Connector and 2x12 Main Power Connector)

With the use of the power connector, the power supply can supply enough stable power to all the components on the motherboard. Before connecting the power connector, first make sure the power supply is turned off and all devices are properly installed. The power connector possesses a foolproof design. Connect the power supply cable to the power connector in the correct orientation.

The 12V power connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If the 12V power connector is not connected, the computer will not start.

To meet expansion requirements, it is recommended that a power supply that can withstand high power consumption be used (500W or greater). If a power supply is used that does not provide the required power, the result can lead to an unstable or unbootable system.

12 24

1

13

ATX

			ATX_12V_2X4:
			Pin No.	Definition
	5	8	1	GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
			2	GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
	1	4
			3	GND
	ATX_12V_2X4
			4	GND
			5	+12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
			6	+12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
			7	+12V
			8	+12V
	ATX:
	Pin No.	Definition	Pin No.	Definition
	1	3.3V	13	3.3V
	2	3.3V	14	-12V
	3	GND	15	GND
	4	+5V	16	PS_ON (soft On/Off)
	5	GND	17	GND
	6	+5V	18	GND
	7	GND	19	GND
	8	Power Good	20	-5V
	9	5VSB (stand by +5V)	21	+5V
	10	+12V	22	+5V
	11	+12V (Only for 2x12-pin	23	+5V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
		ATX)
	12	3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin	24	GND (Only for 2x12-pin
		ATX)		ATX)

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Hardware Installation

3/4) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2/SYS_FAN3 (Fan Headers)

All fan headers on this motherboard are 4-pin. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design.

When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design. For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed inside the chassis.

							CPU_FAN:
							Pin No.	Definition
						1	1	GND
							2	+12V
	CPU_FAN
							3	Sense
							4	Speed Control
							SYS_FAN1/2/3:
1							Pin No.	Definition
							1	GND
SYS_FAN1/2/3							2	Speed Control
							3	Sense
							4	VCC

•• Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from overheating. Overheating may result in damage to the CPU or the system may hang.

•• Thesefanheadersarenotconfigurationjumperblocks.Donotplaceajumpercapontheheaders.

5)SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors)

The SATA connectors conform to SATA 6Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and SATA 1.5Gb/s standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The Intel® Chipset supports RAID 0, RAID 1,

RAID 5, and RAID 10. Refer to Chapter 3, "Configuring SATAHard Drive(s)," for instructions on configuring a

RAID array.

							Pin No.	Definition
SATA3	5		3		1		1	GND
	4		2		0
							2	TXP
7					1		3	TXN
7					1		4	GND
							5	RXN
							6	RXP
							7	GND

•• ARAID 0 or RAID 1 configuration requires at least two hard drives. If more than two hard drives are to be used, the total number of hard drives must be an even number.

•• ARAID 5 configuration requires at least three hard drives. (The total number of hard drives does not have to be an even number.)

•• A RAID 10 configuration requires four hard drives.

•• To enable hot-plugging for the SATA ports, refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Peripherals\SATA

Configuration," for more information.

Hardware Installation

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6)F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)

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

Power LED

Power Switch

Speaker

PLED+ PLED

-PW

SPEAK+

-SPEAK

PW+

-

2

20

1

19

HD-

CI+

-

LED+ LED LED-

-

RES+

_ _

HD+ RES-

CI

PWR PWR PWR_

Hard Drive

Reset

Power LED

Activity LED

Switch

Chassis Intrusion

Header

•• PLED/PWR_LED (Power LED, Yellow/Purple):

System Status	LED
S0	On
S3/S4/S5	Off

Connects to the power status indicator on the chassis front panel. The LED is on when the system is operating. The LED is off when the system is in S3/

S4 sleep state or powered off (S5).

•• PW (Power Switch, Red):

Connects to the power switch on the chassis front panel. You may configure the way to turn off your system using the power switch (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Power Management," for more information).

•• SPEAK (Speaker, Orange):

Connects to the speaker on the chassis front panel. The system reports system startup status by issuing a beep code. One single short beep will be heard if no problem is detected at system startup.

•• HD (Hard Drive Activity LED, Blue):

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

•• RES (Reset Switch, Green):

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

•• CI (Chassis Intrusion Header, Gray):

Connects to the chassis intrusion switch/sensor on the chassis that can detect if the chassis cover has been removed. This function requires a chassis with a chassis intrusion switch/sensor.

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

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Hardware Installation

7)F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header)

The front panel audio header supports Intel High Definition audio (HD) andAC'97 audio. You may connect your chassis front panel audio module to this header. Make sure the wire assignments of the module connector match the pin assignments of the motherboard header. Incorrect connection between the module connector and the motherboard header will make the device unable to work or even damage it.

				For HD Front Panel Audio:		For AC'97 Front Panel Audio:
				Pin No.	Definition		Pin No.	Definition
9	1			1	MIC2_L		1	MIC
				2	GND		2	GND
				3	MIC2_R		3	MIC Power
				4	-ACZ_DET		4	NC
10	2
				5	LINE2_R		5	Line Out (R)
				6	GND		6	NC
				7	FAUDIO_JD		7	NC
				8	No Pin		8	No Pin
				9	LINE2_L		9	Line Out (L)
				10	GND		10	NC

•• The front panel audio header supports HD audio by default. If your chassis provides an AC'97 front panel audio module, refer to the instructions on how to activate AC'97 functionality via the audio software in Chapter 6, "Configuring 2/5.1-Channel Audio."

•• Audio signals will be present on both of the front and back panel audio connections simultaneously.

If you want to mute the back panel audio (only supported when using an HD front panel audio module), refer to Chapter 6, "Configuring 2/5.1-Channel Audio."

•• Some chassis provide a front panel audio module that has separated connectors on each wire instead of a single plug. For information about connecting the front panel audio module that has different wire assignments, please contact the chassis manufacturer.

8)BAT (Battery)

The battery provides power to keep the values (such as BIOS configurations, date, and time information) in the CMOS when the computer is turned off. Replace the battery when the battery voltage drops to a low level, or the CMOS values may not be accurate or may be lost.

	You may clear the CMOS values by removing the battery:
	1.	Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.
	2.	Gently remove the battery from the battery holder and wait for one minute.
		(Oruseametalobjectlikeascrewdrivertotouchthepositiveandnegative
		terminals of the battery holder, making them short for 5 seconds.)
	3.	Replace the battery.
••	4.	Plug in the power cord and restart your computer.
	Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord before replacing the battery.
••	Replace the battery with an equivalent one. Danger of explosion if the battery is replaced with
	an incorrect model.
•• Contact the place of purchase or local dealer if you are not able to replace the battery by yourself
	or uncertain about the battery model.
••	When installing the battery, note the orientation of the positive side (+) and the negative side (-)
	of the battery (the positive side should face up).
••	Used batteries must be handled in accordance with local environmental regulations.
Hardware Installation		- 28 -

9)F_USB30 (USB 3.0/2.0 Header)

The header conforms to USB 3.0/2.0 specification and can provide two USB ports. For purchasing the optional 3.5" front panel that provides two USB 3.0/2.0 ports, please contact the local dealer.

			Pin No.	Definition	Pin No.	Definition
			1	VBUS	11	D2+
	20	1	2	SSRX1-	12	D2-
			3	SSRX1+	13	GND
			4	GND	14	SSTX2+
			5	SSTX1-	15	SSTX2-
			6	SSTX1+	16	GND
			7	GND	17	SSRX2+
	11	10	8	D1-	18	SSRX2-
			9	D1+	19	VBUS
			10	NC	20	No Pin

10)F_USB1/F_USB2 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers)

The headers conform to USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Each USB header can provide two USB ports via an optional USB bracket. For purchasing the optional USB bracket, please contact the local dealer.

			Pin No.	Definition
			1	Power (5V)
			2	Power (5V)
9		1	3	USB DX-
10		2
			4	USB DY-
			5	USB DX+
			6	USB DY+
			7	GND
			8	GND
			9	No Pin
			10	NC

•• Do not plug the IEEE 1394 bracket (2x5-pin) cable into the USB 2.0/1.1 header.

•• Prior to installing the USB bracket, be sure to turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the USB bracket.

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Hardware Installation

11)COMA (Serial Port Header)

The COM header can provide one serial port via an optional COM port cable. For purchasing the optional COM port cable, please contact the local dealer.

					Pin No.	Definition
					1	NDCD-
9				1	2	NSIN
					3	NSOUT
10				2
					4	NDTR-
					5	GND
					6	NDSR-
					7	NRTS-
					8	NCTS-
					9	NRI-
					10	No Pin

12)CLR_CMOS (Clear CMOS Jumper)

Use this jumper to clear the BIOS configuration and reset the CMOS values to factory defaults. To clear the CMOS values, use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the two pins for a few seconds.

Open: Normal

Short: Clear CMOS Values

•• Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before clearing the CMOS values.

•• Aftersystemrestart,gotoBIOSSetuptoloadfactorydefaults(selectLoadOptimizedDefaults)or manuallyconfiguretheBIOSsettings(refertoChapter2,"BIOSSetup,"forBIOSconfigurations).

Hardware Installation

- 30 -