Gigabyte GA-X99-SOC CHAMPION User Manual

GA-X99-SOC

Champion

User's Manual

Rev. 1001

12ME-X99SOCH-1001R

Motherboard

GA-X99-SOC Champion

Motherboard

GA-X99-SOC Champion

Dec. 26, 2014

Dec. 26, 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
GA-X99-SOC Champion Motherboard Layout.................................................................			7
GA-X99-SOC Champion 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 Onboard Buttons, Switches, and LEDs..........................................................			23
1-9	Internal Connectors........................................................................................		26
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
5-2	APP Center.....................................................................................................		89
	5-2-1	EasyTune................................................................................................................	90
	5-2-2	System Information Viewer.....................................................................................	91
	5-2-3	EZ Setup.................................................................................................................	92
	5-2-4	Fast Boot.................................................................................................................	95
	5-2-5	Smart TimeLock......................................................................................................	96
	5-2-6	Smart Recovery 2...................................................................................................	97
	5-2-7	USB Blocker............................................................................................................	99
	5-2-8	Ambient LED.........................................................................................................	100
	5-2-9	V-Tuner..................................................................................................................	101
	5-2-10	Smart Switch.........................................................................................................	102
	5-2-11	Cloud Station Server.............................................................................................	103

Chapter 6 Appendix.....................................................................................................			109
6-1	Configuring Audio Input and Output..............................................................		109
	6-1-1	Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio.................................................................	109
	6-1-2	Configuring S/PDIF Out........................................................................................	111
	6-1-3	Configuring Microphone Recording.......................................................................	112
	6-1-4 Using the Sound Recorder....................................................................................		114
6-2	Troubleshooting............................................................................................		115
	6-2-1	Frequently Asked Questions ................................................................................	115
	6-2-2	Troubleshooting Procedure...................................................................................	116
6-3	Debug LED Codes........................................................................................		118
Regulatory Statements............................................................................................			122
Contact Us...............................................................................................................			127

- 5 -

Box Contents

55 GA-X99-SOC Champion motherboard

55 Motherboard driver disk

55 User's Manual

55 Quick Installation Guide

55 Four 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

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

- 6 -

GA-X99-SOC Champion Motherboard Layout

KB_MS		ATX_12V		ATX_12V_2X4
	SYS_FAN1
R_USB				LGA2011-3
		Renesas® uPD720210
R_USB30_2
R_USB30_1
USB_LAN
	CPU_OPT			A
AUDIO				B
			OC_PEG	1 2_
				_ _
	PCIE_1			DDR4 DDR4

Intel® GbE PCIE_5

LAN

PCIE_4

LED (Note)	CPU_FAN
Debug	SB
RST_SW	TGR
PW_SW	BIOS_SW

CMOS_SW SYS_FAN2

ATX

DDR4_3_C

DDR4_4_D

CPU MODE

PCIE_6 GA-X99-SOC Champion

PCIE_2

CODEC

PCIE_7

BAT

System Temperature PCIE_3 Sensor 2

M2_20G

			SATA3		1 0	EXPRESS
	®	X99			3 5 4
Intel®					2
iTE						_
Super I/O B_BIOS M_BIOS						SATA
		BBIOS_LED		MBIOS_LED		sSATA3
		CLR_CMOS					3 02
							1

F_AUDIO

OC_PAN

F_USB2

F_USB30

SYS_FAN3

SPDIF

_O

THB

_C

COMA

F_USB1

F_

PANEL

System Temperature

Sensor 1

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

- 7 -

GA-X99-SOC Champion Motherboard Block Diagram

1 PCI Express x16 2

PCI

Express x8

1 PCI

1 PCI

PCI Express x16

Express x8

or

PCIe CLK

(100 MHz)

	x16	x16
	Switch
x16	x8

PCI Express Bus

CPU CLK+/- (100 MHz)

LGA2011-3

DDR4 2133/1866/1600/1333 MHz

4 Channel Memory

CPU

DMI 2.0

3 PCI Express x1

LAN

RJ45

			Intel® GbE LAN
x1	x1	x1	x1

PCI Express Bus

PCIe CLK

(100 MHz)

				CODEC
Speaker Out Speaker Out Speaker Out MIC Line Out Line In S/PDIF Out
Rear		Side
	Center/Subwoofer

1 M.2

1 SATA Express

or

2 SATA 6Gb/s

4 SATA 6Gb/s

Intel

X99

4 SATA 6Gb/s

®

Renesas®

4 USB 3.0/2.0

uPD720210 Hub

2 USB 3.0/2.0

8 USB 2.0/1.1

Dual BIOS

LPC Bus

COM

iTE®

Super I/O

PS/2 KB/Mouse

For detailed product information/limitation(s), refer to "1-2 Product 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		4 x DDR4 DIMM sockets supporting up to 32 GB of system memory
			* Due to a Windows 32-bit operating system limitation, when more than 4 GB of
			physical 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 memory modules (operates in non-ECC mode)
		(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest supported memory speeds and
		memory modules.)
Audio		Realtek® ALC1150 codec
		High Definition Audio
		2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
		Support for S/PDIF Out
LAN		Intel® GbE 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
		(All PCI Express x1 slots conform to PCI Express 2.0 standard.)
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_20G)
			* Support for M.2 PCIe SSDs only.
		-	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

* Only AHCI mode is supported when an M.2 PCIe SSD or a SATA Express device is installed.

Hardware Installation

- 10 -

Storage Interface (M2_20G and SATA Express connectors can only be used one at a time. The SATA Express connector becomes unavailable when an M.2 SSD is installed, but the SATA3 4/5 connectors are still functional.)

-4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (sSATA3 0~3), supporting IDE and AHCI

		modes only
		(An operating system installed on the SATA3 0~5 ports cannot be used on the
		sSATA 0~3 ports.)
USB		Chipset:
		- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 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 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
	1 x OC PEG Power Connector
	1 x SATA Express connector
	10 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
	1 x M.2 Socket 3 connector
	1 x CPU fan header
	1 x water cooling fan header (CPU_OPT)
	3 x system fan headers
	1 x Thunderbolt™ add-in card connector
	1 x OC Panel connector (for future expansion)
	1 x front panel header
	1 x front panel audio header
	1 x S/PDIF Out 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
	1 x CPU mode switch
	1 x OC Trigger switch
	1 x DualBIOS switch
	1 x BIOS switch
		Voltage Measurement Points

Back Panel

Connectors

1 x PS/2 keyboard port

1 x PS/2 mouse port

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports

1 x RJ-45 port

1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector

5 x audio jacks (Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out, Rear Speaker Out, Line In, Line Out, Mic In)

- 11 -

Hardware Installation

I/O Controller

iTE I/O Controller Chip

Hardware

Monitor

System voltage detection

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™

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
	-	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

cFosSpeed

	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 referred as lever B) down and away from the socket. 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:		Step 2:
Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on		Place the cooler atop the CPU, aligning the four
the surface of the installed CPU.		mounting screws with the mounting holes on
		the ILM.

Step 3:	Step 4:
Use one hand to hold the cooler and the other to	Finally, attach the power connector of the CPU
tighten the screws in a diagonal sequence with a	cooler to the CPU fan header (CPU_FAN) on the
screw driver. Begin tightening a screw with a few	motherboard.
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.

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 four 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 four DDR4 memory sockets are divided into four channels and each channel has one memory sockets as following:

Channel A: DDR4_1_AChannel B: DDR4_2_BChannel C: DDR4_3_CChannel D: DDR4_4_D

DDR4 1 A DDR4 2 B

DDR4 4 D DDR4 3 C

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

		DDR4_1_A	DDR4_2_B	DDR4_4_D	DDR4_3_C
1	Module	- -	•	- -	- -
2	Modules	- -	•	•	- -
4	Modules	•	•	•	•

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

Note 2: 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 (Note 3) (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/ 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 Cards	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 when an i7-5820K CPU is installed and a 3-Way SLI configuration is to be set up.

Make sure to use the GC-3SLI bridge connector.

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

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.)

- 19 -

Hardware Installation

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.

(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.

(Note 3) When two or more graphics cards are installed, we recommend that you connect the power cable from the power supply to the OC_PEG connector to ensure system stability.

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.

Hardware Installation

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1-7 Back Panel Connectors

PS/2 Keyboard and PS/2 Mouse Port

Use the upper port (green) to connect a PS/2 mouse and the lower port (purple) to connect a PS/2 keyboard.

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.

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/

Activity LED

Connection/Speed LED:

Activity LED:

Speed LED

State

Description

State

Description

Orange

1 Gbps data rate

Blinking

Data transmission or receiving is occurring

Green

100 Mbps data rate

On

No data transmission or receiving is occurring

LAN Port

Off

10 Mbps data rate

Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out Jack (Orange)

Use this audio jack to connect center/subwoofer speakers in a 5.1/7.1-channel audio configuration.

Rear Speaker Out Jack (Black)

This jack can be used to connect front speakers in a 4/5.1/7.1-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.

Line In Jack (Blue)

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

Line Out Jack (Green)

The line out jack. This jack supports audio amplifying function. For better sound quality, it is recommended that you connect your headphone/speaker to this jack (actual effects may vary by the device being used).

Use this audio jack for a headphone or 2-channel speaker. This jack can be used to connect front speakers in a 4/5.1/7.1-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

Mic In Jack (Pink)

The Mic in jack. Microphones must be connected to this jack.

The audio jacks can be reconfigured to perform different functions via the audio software (supported functions may vary based on hardware specification). If you install a Side Speaker, you need to retask other audio jack to be Side Speaker out. Only microphones still MUST be connected to the default Mic in jack. Refer to the instructions on setting up a 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel audio configuration in Chapter 6, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio."

Hardware Installation

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1-8 Onboard Buttons, Switches, and LEDs

BIOS Switches and BIOS LEDs

The DualBIOS switch (SB) allows enabling or disabling of the Dual BIOS function. The BIOS switch (BIOS_SW) allows users to easily select a different BIOS for boot up or overclocking, helping to reduce BIOS failure during

overclocking. The LED indicator (MBIOS_LED/BBIOS_LED) shows which BIOS is active.

SB	DualBIOS Switch:
	SB
BIOS_SW	1	1: Dual BIOS
	2
	1	2: Single BIOS
	2
	BIOS Switch
	BIOS_SW

BBIOS_LED MBIOS_LED

Quick Buttons

1			1:Main BIOS
2
1			2:Backup BIOS
2

BIOS LED Indicators:

MBIOS_LED (The main BIOS is active) BBIOS_LED (The backup BIOS is active)

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

PW_SW CMOS_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 using the clear CMOS button.

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

•• After system restart, go to BIOS Setup to load factory defaults (select Load Optimized Defaults) or manuallyconfiguretheBIOSsettings(refertoChapter2,"BIOSSetup,"forBIOSconfigurations).

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Hardware Installation

OC Trigger switch (TGR):

This switch allows the overclockers to jump between low and extremely high frequencies in an instant. After remaining at a low frequency during system boot and OS optimization, the overclocker can then engage the Trigger Switch to instantly hit the target frequency, save their score submission, grab a screen shot, and watch the records tumble.

	1	1: Target frequency set in BIOS Setup or other overclocking application.
	2
	TGR 1	2:Safefrequency(usingthelowestCPUratio,whichmayvarybyCPU)
	2

Beforeusingtheoverclocking buttons, makesuretoloadtheoptimized defaults inBIOSSetuptoreturn the BIOS settings to factory defaults.

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

Hardware Installation

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Voltage Measurement Points

Use a multimeter to measure the following motherboard voltages. You can employ following way to measure component voltages.

Pin 1

DIMM_A

Pin 1

DIMM_B

Pin No.

Definition

Pin 1

DDRVTT_A

1

Power

Pin 1

DDRVTT_B

2

GND

Pin 1

VPP25_A

Pin 1

VPP25_B

Pin 1

VSA

Pin 1

VRING

Pin 1

VCORE

VRIN

Pin 1

Pin 1

PCHV

Pin 1

PCHVRM

Steps:

Connecttheredleadofthemultimetertothepin1(Power)ofavoltage measurement point and the black lead to the pin 2 (ground).

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Hardware Installation

1-9 Internal Connectors

5	1	1
		4
		5
3		2
6

10								8
								8
								7
								9
12 13	17	16	15	19	14	11	18	5

1)	ATX_12V_2X4/ATX_12V	11)	F_PANEL
2)	ATX	12)	F_AUDIO
3)	OC_PEG	13)	SPDIF_O
4)	CPU_FAN	14)	F_USB30
5)	SYS_FAN1/2/3	15)	F_USB1/F_USB2
6)	CPU_OPT	16)	COMA
7)	SATA_EXPRESS	17)	THB_C
8)	SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5	18)	CLR_CMOS
9)	sSATA3 0/1/2/3	19)	BAT
10)	M2_20G

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

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1/2)ATX_12V/ATX_12V_2X4/ATX (2x2, 2x4 12V Power Connectors 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:
			Pin No.	Definition
	3	4	1	GND
	1	2	2	GND
			3	+12V
	ATX_12V
			4	+12V
			ATX_12V_2X4:
			Pin No.	Definition
		8	1	GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
			2	GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
		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-pinATX)
		ATX)

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Hardware Installation

3)OC_PEG (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 SATA power cable(s) from the power supply to the OC_PEG connector to ensure system stability.

		6									4	Pin No.	Definition
												1	+12V
												2	+12V
		3									1	3	+12V
												4	GND
												5	GND
												6	GND

4/5) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/2/3 (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		1					Pin No.	Definition
															1												1	GND
												SYS_FAN1 SYS_FAN2											SYS_FAN3
																											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.

Hardware Installation

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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
												1	2	Speed Control
													3	Sense
													4	VCC

7)SATA_EXPRESS (SATA Express Connector)

The SATA Express connector supports a single SATA Express device.

M2_20G and SATA Express connectors can only be used one at a time. The SATA Express connector becomes unavailable when an M.2 SSD is installed, but the SATA3 4/5 connectors are still functional.

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Hardware Installation

8)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						1	GND
																			2	TXP
					7													1	3	TXN
											7							1	4	GND
																			5	RXN
														3	2		1		6	RXP
														5	4		0
																			7	GND

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

9)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.

sSATA3

															3	1
															2	0

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

To enable hot-plugging for the SATAports, refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Chipset\PCH sSATA Configuration," for more information.

Hardware Installation

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