Gigabyte GA-X99-GAMING 5P User Manual

GA-X99-Gaming 5P

User's Manual

Rev. 1001

12ME-X99GM5P-1001R

Motherboard

GA-X99-Gaming 5P

Jan. 30, 2015

Motherboard

GA-X99-Gaming 5P

Jan. 30, 2015

Copyright

© 2015 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
GA-X99-Gaming 5P Motherboard Layout........................................................................			7
GA-X99-Gaming 5P 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 4 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..................................................................................		21
1-8	Installing the I/O Shield...................................................................................		22
1-9	Changing the Operational Amplifier................................................................		23
1-10	Onboard Switches..........................................................................................		24
1-11	Internal Connectors........................................................................................		25
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup...................................................................................................			37
2-1	Startup Screen................................................................................................		38
2-2	The Main Menu...............................................................................................		39
2-3	M.I.T................................................................................................................		42
2-4	System Information.........................................................................................		54
2-5	BIOS Features................................................................................................		55
2-6	Peripherals......................................................................................................		58
2-7	Chipset............................................................................................................		60
2-8	Power Management........................................................................................		63
2-9	Save & Exit.....................................................................................................		65
Chapter 3 Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)...................................................................			67
3-1	Configuring SATA Controllers.........................................................................		67
3-2	Installing the SATA RAID/AHCI Driver and Operating System.......................		79

- 4 -

Chapter 4 Drivers Installation........................................................................................		83
4-1	Chipset Drivers...............................................................................................	83
4-2	Application Software.......................................................................................	84
4-3	Information......................................................................................................	84

Chapter 5 Unique Features...........................................................................................			85
5-1	BIOS Update Utilities......................................................................................		85
	5-1-1	Updating the BIOS with the Q-Flash Utility.............................................................	85
	5-1-2	Updating the BIOS with the @BIOS Utility..............................................................	88
	5-1-3	Using Q-Flash Plus.................................................................................................	89
5-2	APP Center.....................................................................................................		90
	5-2-1	EasyTune................................................................................................................	91
	5-2-2	System Information Viewer.....................................................................................	92
	5-2-3	EZ Setup.................................................................................................................	93
	5-2-4	Fast Boot.................................................................................................................	96
	5-2-5	Smart TimeLock......................................................................................................	97
	5-2-6	Smart Recovery 2...................................................................................................	98
	5-2-7	USB Blocker..........................................................................................................	100
	5-2-8	Ambient LED.........................................................................................................	101
	5-2-9	V-Tuner..................................................................................................................	102
	5-2-10	Smart Switch.........................................................................................................	103
	5-2-11	Cloud Station Server.............................................................................................	104
	5-2-12	Game Controller....................................................................................................	110

Chapter 6 Appendix.....................................................................................................			111
6-1	Qualcomm® Atheros Killer Network Manager		................................................111
6-2	Configuring Audio Input and Output..............................................................		112
	6-2-1	Configuring 2/5.1-Channel Audio..........................................................................	112
	6-2-2	Creative Software Suite........................................................................................	112
	6-2-3	Configuring S/PDIF Out........................................................................................	116
	6-2-4	Configuring Audio Recording................................................................................	117
	6-2-5 Using the Sound Recorder....................................................................................		119
6-3	Troubleshooting............................................................................................		120
	6-3-1	Frequently Asked Questions ................................................................................	120
	6-3-2	Troubleshooting Procedure...................................................................................	121
Regulatory Statements............................................................................................			123
Contact Us...............................................................................................................			127

- 5 -

Box Contents

55 GA-X99-Gaming 5P motherboard

55 Motherboard driver disk

55 User's Manual

55 Quick Installation Guide

55 Six SATA cables

55 I/O Shield

55 One 2-Way SLI bridge connector

55 Two 3-Way SLI bridge connectors (GC-3SLI-X99 and GC-3SLI)

55 One 4-Way SLI bridge connector

55 One 2-Way CrossFire bridge connector

55 One 1 to 3 power cable (2x4 ATX 12V)

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)

- 6 -

GA-X99-Gaming 5P Motherboard Layout

	KB_MS				DDR4 1 1A DDR4 2 2A DDR4 3 1B DDR4 4 2B
		CPU_OPT
	R_USB
	FBIOS_LED
	R_USB30		Renesas® uPD720210
	USB30_LAN
	LEDCON1
	AUDIO
	BRACKET			FAN1
	ANTENNA_
	Qualcomm®			SYS	PCIE_1
	Atheros Killer
	TI Burr Brown® E2201 LAN				PCIE_5
	OPA2134

ATX_12V_2X4

LGA2011-3

GA-X99-Gaming 5P	CPU_FAN

DDR4_8_2D DDR4_7_1D DDR4_6_2C DDR4_5_1C

ATX

F_USB30

CPU MODE

CAP_SW	PCIE_4
	PCIE_6
	PCIE_2
Creative®	PCIE_7
Sound Core 3D
	PCIE_3	THB_C
F_AUDIO
		ATX4P
System Temperature
Sensor 2

				1 0
				2 4
				3 5
	M2WIFI	M210G	Intel® X99	SATA 3	SATAEXPRESS
	B_BIOS	LED_CON2		1 0
	M_BIOS		iTE®	3 2
BAT				3
			Super I/O	sSATA
			CLR_CMOS
	F_USB2 F_USB1		SYS_FAN2 F_PANEL		SYS_FAN3
				System Temperature
				Sensor 1

- 7 -

GA-X99-Gaming 5P Motherboard Block Diagram

2

PCI

Express x8

CPU CLK+/- (100 MHz)

1 PCI Express x16

LGA2011-3

DDR4 2133/1866/1600/1333 MHz

1 PCI

1 PCI

CPU

4 Channel Memory

PCI Express x16 Express x8

or

PCIe CLK

(100 MHz)

2.0

x16

x16

DMI

Switch

x16

x8

or

M.2

PCI Express Bus

Switch

SATA Express

or

LAN

2 SATA 6Gb/s

4 SATA 6Gb/s

3 PCI Express x1

RJ45

Qualcomm®

4 SATA 6Gb/s

Atheros Killer

E2201 LAN

x1

x1

x1

x1

Intel® X99

Renesas®

uPD720210 Hub

4

3.0/2.0

PCIe CLK

PCI Express Bus

USB

(100 MHz)

4 USB 3.0/2.0

Dual BIOS

8 USB 2.0/1.1

Creative®

Sound Core

LPC Bus

3D

iTE®

Super I/O

PS/2 KB/Mouse

Rear Speaker Out

Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out

Headphone/Speaker Out Line Out MIC/Line In

S/PDIF Out

Fordetailed product information/limitation(s), referto"1-2Product Specifications."

- 8 -

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.

- 9 -

Hardware Installation

1-2	Product Specifications
	CPU		Support for Intel® Core™ i7 processors in the LGA2011-3 package
			(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
			L3 cache varies with CPU
	Chipset		Intel® X99 Express Chipset
	Memory		8 x DDR4 DIMM sockets supporting up to 64 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.
			4 channel memory architecture
			Support for DDR4 2133/1866/1600/1333 MHz memory modules
			Support for non-ECC memory modules
			Support for Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) memory modules
			Support for RDIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx4/2Rx4 memory modules (operates in non-
			ECC mode)
			(GotoGIGABYTE'swebsiteforthelatestsupportedmemoryspeedsandmemory
			modules.)
	Audio		Creative® Sound Core 3D chip
			Support for Sound Blaster Recon3Di
			TI Burr Brown® OPA2134 operational amplifier
			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		2 x PCI Express x16 slots, running at x16 (PCIE_1/PCIE_2)
				* For optimum performance, if only one PCI Express graphics card is to be installed,
				be sure to install it in the PCIE_1 slot; if you are installing two PCI Express graphics
				cards, it is recommended that you install them in the PCIE_1 and PCIE_2 slots.
			2 x PCI Express x16 slots, running at x8 (PCIE_3/PCIE_4)
				* The PCIE_4 slot shares bandwidth with the PCIE_1 slot. When the PCIE_4 slot is
				populated, the PCIE_1 slot will operate at up to x8 mode.
				* When an i7-5820K CPU is installed, the PCIE_2 slot operates at up to x8 mode and
				the PCIE_3 operates at up to x4 mode.
			(All PCI Express x16 slots conform to PCI Express 3.0 standard.)
			3 x PCI Express x1 slots
			(The PCI Express x1 slots conform to PCI Express 2.0 standard.)
			1 x M.2 Socket 1 connector for the wireless communication module (M2_WIFI)
	Multi-Graphics		Support for 4-Way/3-Way/2-Way AMD CrossFire™/NVIDIA® SLI™ technology
	Technology			* The 4-Way NVIDIA® SLI™ configuration is not supported when an i7-5820K CPU
				is installed. To set up a 3-Way SLI configuration, refer to "1-6 Setting up AMD
				CrossFire™/NVIDIA® SLI™ Configuration."
	Storage Interface		Chipset:
			-	1 x M.2 Socket 3 connector (M2_10G)
			-	1 x SATA Express connector
			-	6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (SATA3 0~5)
			-	Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10
				* OnlyAHCI mode is supported when an M.2 PCIe SSD or a SATAExpress device is
				installed.
			(M2_10G, SATA Express, and SATA3 4/5 connectors can only be used one at a
			time. The SATA3 4/5 connectors will become unavailable when an M.2 SSD is
			installed in the M2_10G connector.)
Hardware Installation				- 10 -

Storage Interface		Chipset:
		-	4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (sSATA3 0~3), supporting IDE and AHCI modes
			only
		(An operating system installed on the SATA3 0~5 connectors cannot be used on
		the sSATA3 0~3 connectors.)
USB		Chipset:
		-	4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (2 ports on the back panel, 2 ports available through
			the internal USB header)
		-	8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports on the back panel, 4 ports available through
			the internal USB headers)

	Chipset + Renesas® uPD720210 USB 3.0 Hub:
	- 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports on the back panel
Internal	1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector
Connectors	1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
	1 x PCIe power connector
	1 x I/O shield audio LED power connector
	1 x heatsink LED power connector
	1 x M.2 Socket 3 connector
	1 x SATA Express connector
	10 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
	1 x CPU fan header
	1 x water cooling fan header (CPU_OPT)
	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 Thunderbolt™ add-in card connector
	1 x Clear CMOS jumper
	1 x CPU mode switch
	1 x audio gain control switch
Back Panel	1 x PS/2 keyboard port
Connectors	1 x PS/2 mouse port
	6 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports
	4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
	1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector
	1 x RJ-45 port
	5 x audio jacks (Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out, Rear Speaker Out, Line In/Mic
	In, Line Out, Headphone/Speaker Out Jack)
	2 x Wi-Fi antenna connector holes
I/O Controller	iTE® I/O Controller Chip

- 11 -

Hardware Installation

	Hardware		System voltage detection
	Monitor		CPU/System/Chipset temperature detection
		CPU/CPU OPT/System fan speed detection
			CPU/System/Chipset overheating warning
		CPU/CPU OPT/System fan fail warning
		CPU/CPU OPT/System fan speed control
				* Whether the fan speed control function is supported will depend on the cooler you
				install.
	BIOS		2 x 128 Mbit flash
		Use of licensed AMI UEFI BIOS
		Support for DualBIOS™
		Support for Q-Flash Plus
		PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.7, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0
	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
			-	Ambient LED
			-	EasyTune
			-	EZ Setup
			-	Fast Boot
			-	Game Controller
			-	Cloud Station
			-	ON/OFF Charge
			-	Smart TimeLock
			-	Smart Recovery 2
			-	System Information Viewer
			-	USB Blocker
			-	V-Tuner
			Support for Q-Flash
		Support for Smart Switch
		Support for Xpress Install
	Bundled		Norton® Internet Security (OEM version)
	Software		Intel® Smart Response Technology
	Operating	Support for Windows 8.1/8/7
	System
	Form Factor		E-ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 26.4cm

*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.

LGA2011-3 CPU Socket

Alignment Key	Alignment Key	Pin One Corner of
		the CPU Socket

Alignment Key

Alignment Key

LGA2011-3 CPU

Notch Notch

Triangle Pin One

Marking on the CPU

Notch Notch

- 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.

Lever A				Lever B

Step 1:

Push the lever closest to the "unlock" mark " "

(below referred as leverA) down and away from the socket to release it.

Step 3:

Gently press lever A to allow the load plate to rise. Open the load plate. NOTE: DO NOT touch the socket contacts after the load plate is opened.

Step 5:

Once the CPU is properly inserted, carefully replace the load plate. Then secure lever B under its retention tab.

Step 2:

Push the lever closest to the "lock" mark ""(below referredasleverB)downandawayfromthesocket.

Then lift the lever.

Step 4:

Hold the CPU with your thumb and index fingers. Align the CPU pin one mark (triangle) with the triangle mark on metal socket frame and carefully insert the CPU into the socket vertically.

Step 6:

Finally, secure lever A under its retention tab to complete the installation of the CPU. Then carefully remove the plastic cover. Save it properly and always replace it when the CPU is not installed.

Hardware Installation

- 14 -

1-3-2 Installing the CPU Cooler

Refer to the steps below to correctly install the CPU cooler on the motherboard. (Actual installation process may differ depending the CPU cooler to be used. Refer to the user's manual for your CPU cooler.)

Step 1:

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

Step 3:

Use one hand to hold the cooler and the other to tighten the screws in a diagonal sequence with a screw driver. Begin tightening a screw with a few turns and repeat with the screw diagonally opposite the one you just tightened. Then do the same to the other pair. Next, fully tighten the four screws.

Step 2:

Place the cooler atop the CPU, aligning the four mounting screws with the mounting holes on the ILM.

Step 4:

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 4 Channel Memory Configuration

This motherboard provides eight DDR4 memory sockets and supports 4 Channel Technology. After the memory is installed, the BIOS will automatically detect the specifications and capacity of the memory. The eight DDR4 memory sockets are divided into four channels and each channel has two memory sockets as following:

Channel A: DDR4_1_1A, DDR4_2_2AChannel B: DDR4_3_1B, DDR4_4_2BChannel C: DDR4_5_1C, DDR4_6_2CChannel D: DDR4_7_1D, DDR4_8_2D

DDR4 1 1A DDR4 2 2A DDR4 3 1B DDR4 4 2B

DDR4 8 2D DDR4 7 1D DDR4 6 2C DDR4 5 1C

Refer to the table below for memory installation according to the number of the memory modules you want to install:

		DDR4_1_1A	DDR4_2_2A	DDR4_3_1B	DDR4_4_2B	DDR4_8_2D	DDR4_7_1D	DDR4_6_2C	DDR4_5_1C
1	Module	- -	- -	•	- -	- -	- -	- -	- -
2	Modules	- -	- -	•	- -	- -	•	- -	- -
4	Modules	•	- -	•	- -	- -	•	- -	•
6	Modules	•	- -	•	•	•	•	- -	•
8	Modules	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•

Note 1: When installing the memory, make sure to begin with the first socket of each channel, such as

DDR4_1_1A, DDR4_3_1B, DDR4_5_1C, and DDR4_7_1D.

Note 2: If you are using a RDIMM memory, make sure it is a 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx4/2Rx4 one.

Note 3: To ensure memory compatibility, we do not recommend that you install RDIMM and UDIMM memory at the same time.

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. DDR4 and DDR3 DIMMs are not compatible to each other or DDR2 DIMMs. Be sure to install DDR4 DIMMs on this motherboard.

Notch

DDR4 DIMM

ADDR4 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 x16 Slot

PCI Express x1 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 or more PCI Express x16 slots and correct driver -- CrossFire/SLI-ready graphics cards of identical brand and chip and correct driver

(Current GPUs that support 3-Way/4-Way CrossFire technology include the ATI Radeon™ HD 3800, HD 4800, HD 5800 series, and AMD Radeon™ HD 6800, HD 6900, HD 7800, and HD 7900 series. Current GPUs that support 3-Way/4-Way SLI technology include the NVIDIA® 8800 GTX, 8800 Ultra, 9800 GTX,

GTX 260, GTX 280, GTX 470, GTX 480, GTX 570, GTX 580, GTX 590, and GTX 600 series.) For the latest GPU support information, please refer to the AMD/NVIDIA® website.) (Note 1)

-- CrossFire(Note 2)/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 CrossFireX/SLI graphics cards on the PCI Express x16 slots.

Step 2:

Insert the CrossFire(Note 2)/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 PCIE_1 slot.

Refer to the table below when an i7-5960X or i7-5930K CPU is installed:

	1 Graphics Card	2 Graphics Cards	3 Graphics Cards	4 Graphics Cards
PCIE_1	•	•	•	•
PCIE_4	- -	- -	- -	•
PCIE_2	- -	•	•	•
PCIE_3	- -	- -	•	•

To set up a 3-Way SLI configuration, use the GC-3SLI-X99 bridge connector.

PCIE_1

PCIE_4

PCIE_2

PCIE_3

Refer to the table below for setting up a 3-Way SLI configuration with an i7-5820K CPU. Make sure to use the GC-3SLI bridge connector.

	1 Graphics Card	2 Graphics Cards	3 Graphics Cards
PCIE_1	•	•	•
PCIE_4	- -	- -	•
PCIE_2	- -	•	•
PCIE_3	- -	- -	- -

(Note 1) The 4-Way SLI configuration is not supported when an i7-5820K CPU is installed. (Note 2) 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.

•• When two or more graphics cards are installed, we recommend that you connect the power cable from the power supply to the ATX4P connector to ensure system stability.

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Hardware Installation

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™ and ensure the Enable AMD CrossFireX check box is selected. If your system has more than two CrossFire cards, select the GPU combination you want to use and click Apply.

(Available combination options are dependent on the number of graphics cards.)

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 ConfigureSLI,Surround,

Physx screen and ensure Maximize 3D performance is enabled.

Hardware Installation

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1-7 Back Panel Connectors

PS/2 Keyboard and PS/2 Mouse Port

Usetheupperport(green)toconnectaPS/2mouseandthelowerport(purple)toconnectaPS/2keyboard.

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.

USB 3.0/2.0 Port (White)

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. Before using Q-Flash Plus, make sure to insert the USB flash drive into this port first.

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 Out

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.

•• 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

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.

Refer to the instructions on setting up a 2/5.1-channel audio configuration in Chapter 6, "Configuring

2/5.1-Channel Audio."

Wi-Fi Antenna Connector Holes

Secure the antenna connectors, washers, and nuts onto the holes.

1-8 Installing the I/O Shield

Step 1:

Install the included I/O shield into the chassis. (For actual installation, please refer to the user guide for your chassis.)

Step 2:

Place the motherboard into the chassis, aligning the back panel connectors with the installed I/O shield. Connect the power cable from the I/O shield to the LED_CON1 connector on the motherboard.

For how to turn on/off the I/O shield LED indicators, refer to the instructions on in Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Peripherals," or Chapter 5, "Unique Features," "APP Center\Ambient LED."

Hardware Installation

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1-9 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.

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Hardware Installation

1-10 Onboard Switches

CPU Mode Switch

This switch allows the overclockers to switch between CPU default mode and OC mode.

1

2

1

2

1:Default

2:OC Mode. (Please note that using this mode may result in incompatibility.)

CPU Mode Switch

Audio Gain Control Switche

The switch allows for audio gain control for the headphone/speaker out jack on the back panel. Please set it according to your headphone specification (actual effects may vary by the device being used).

1	2	1: 2.5x (Default)
		2: 6x

CAP_SW

Hardware Installation

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1-11 Internal Connectors

6 1

		2
	7	16
	5
		4

10 13

12					9
19					11
18
					20
15
3	17	8	5	14	5

1)	ATX_12V_2X4	11)	sSATA3 0/1/2/3
2)	ATX	12)	M2_10G
3)	ATX4P	13)	M2_WIFI
4)	CPU_FAN	14)	F_PANEL
5)	SYS_FAN1/2/3	15)	F_AUDIO
6)	CPU OPT	16)	F_USB30
7)	LED_CON1	17)	F_USB1/F_USB2
8)	LED_CON2	18)	THB_C
9)	SATA_EXPRESS	19)	BAT
10)	SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5	20)	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.

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Hardware Installation

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.

					ATX_12V_2X4:
					Pin No.	Definition
					1	GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
					2	GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
			5	8	3	GND
					4	GND
			1	4
					5	+12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
			ATX_12V_2X4
					6	+12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
					7	+12V
					8	+12V
		ATX:
12	24	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)
1	13	12	ATX)		24	GND (Only for 2x12-pin
			3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin
	ATX		ATX)			ATX)

When you overclock the CPU, make sure to connect one end of the included 1 to 3 power cable to the ATX_12V_2X4 power connector and the other three to the power supply to ensure the system is provided with enough power.

Hardware Installation

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3)ATX4P (PCIe Power Connector)

The power connector provide auxiliary power to the onboard PCI Express x16 slots. When two or more graphics cards are installed, we recommend that you connect the power cable from the power supply to the ATX4P connector to ensure system stability.

		Pin No.	Definition
		1	VCC
		2	GND
	1	3	GND
		4	+12V

4/5) 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 motherboard supports CPU fan speed control, which requires the use of a CPU fan with fan speed control design. For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed inside the chassis.

CPU_FAN:

1

Pin No.

Definition

1

GND

CPU_FAN

2

+12V

3

Sense

4

Speed Control

SYS_FAN1/2/3:

1

Pin No.

Definition

1

GND

1

SYS_FAN2/3

SYS_FAN1

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.

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Hardware Installation

6)CPU_OPT (Water Cooling CPU Fan Header)

The fan header is 4-pin and possesses 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.

		Pin No.	Definition
		1	GND
		2	Speed Control
	1	3	Sense
		4	VCC

7)LED_CON1 (I/O Shield Audio LED Power Connector)

The power connector provides power to the LEDs on the I/O shield on the motherboard back panel.

	Pin No.	Definition
	1	VCC
1	2	GND

Hardware Installation

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8)LED_CON2 (Heatsink LED Power Connector)

The power connector provides power to the LEDs on the Chipset heatsink.

	Pin No.	Definition
1	1	VCC
	2	GND

9)SATA_EXPRESS (SATA Express Connector)

The SATA Express connector supports a single SATA Express device.

M2_10G, SATA Express, and SATA3 4/5 connectors can only be used one at a time. The SATA3 4/5 connectors will become unavailable when an M.2 SSD is installed.

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Hardware Installation

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

The SATAconnectors conform to SATA6Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA3Gb/s and SATA1.5Gb/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 SATA Hard Drive(s)," for instructions on configuring a RAID array.

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

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

Configuration," for more information.

11)sSATA3 0/1/2/3 (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 standards. Only AHCI and IDE modes are supported. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device.

				Pin No.	Definition
sSATA3	3	1		1	GND
	2	0
7				2	TXP
		1
				3	TXN
7		1		4	GND
				5	RXN
				6	RXP
				7	GND

To enable hot-plugging for the SATA ports, refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Chipset\PCH sSATA

Configuration," for more information.

Hardware Installation

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