MSI Z370 Gaming M5 operation manual

Unpacking

Thank you for buying the MSI® Z370 GAMING M5 motherboard. Check to make sure
your motherboard box contains the following items. If something is missing, contact
your dealer as soon as possible.

Motherboard

I/O Shield

SLI Bridge
Connector

Drivers & Utilities

Disc

SATA Cable x4

SATA Cable Labels

Motherboard User

Guide

RGB LED Extension

Cable x1

Case Badge

Unpacking

1

Safety Information

y The components included in this package are prone to damage from electrostatic
discharge (ESD). Please adhere to the following instructions to ensure successful
computer assembly.

y Ensure that all components are securely connected. Loose connections may cause
the computer to not recognize a component or fail to start.

y Hold the motherboard by the edges to avoid touching sensitive components.

y It is recommended to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when
handling the motherboard to prevent electrostatic damage. If an ESD wrist strap is
not available, discharge yourself of static electricity by touching another metal object
before handling the motherboard.

y Store the motherboard in an electrostatic shielding container or on an anti-static pad
whenever the motherboard is not installed.

y Before turning on the computer, ensure that there are no loose screws or metal
components on the motherboard or anywhere within the computer case.

y Do not boot the computer before installation is completed. This could cause
permanent damage to the components as well as injury to the user.

y If you need help during any installation step, please consult a certified computer
technician.

y Always turn off the power supply and unplug the power cord from the power outlet
before installing or removing any computer component.

y Keep this user guide for future reference.

y Keep this motherboard away from humidity.

y Make sure that your electrical outlet provides the same voltage as is indicated on the
PSU, before connecting the PSU to the electrical outlet.

y Place the power cord such a way that people can not step on it. Do not place anything
over the power cord.

y All cautions and warnings on the motherboard should be noted.

y If any of the following situations arises, get the motherboard checked by service
personnel:

 Liquid has penetrated into the computer.
 The motherboard has been exposed to moisture.
 The motherboard does not work well or you can not get it work according to user

guide.

 The motherboard has been dropped and damaged.
 The motherboard has obvious sign of breakage.

y Do not leave this motherboard in an environment above 60°C (140°F), it may damage
the motherboard.

Safety Information

2

Quick Start

Preparing Tools and Components

Intel® LGA 1151 CPU

DDR4 Memory

SATA DVD Drive

CPU Fan Thermal Paste

Chassis

SATA Hard Disk Drive

Power Supply Unit

Graphics Card

Phillips Screwdriver

A Package of Screws

Quick Start

3

Installing a Processor

2

http://youtu.be/bf5La099urI

6

1

3

7

4

5

9

Quick Start

4

8

Installing DDR4 memory

http://youtu.be/T03aDrJPyQs

2

1

2

3

DIMMB2 DIMMB2

DIMMA2 DIMMA2 DIMMA2

DIMMB1

DIMMA1

Quick Start

5

Connecting the Front Panel Header

RESET SW

POWER SW

POWER LED+

POWER LED-

HDD LED

http://youtu.be/DPELIdVNZUI

Quick Start

6

2 10

1

JFP1

1 HDD LED + 2 Power LED +

3 HDD LED - 4 Power LED -

5 Reset Switch 6 Power Switch

9

7 Reset Switch 8 Power Switch

9 Reserved 10 No Pin

HDD LED

POWER LED

RESET SW

HDD LED

JFP1

HDD LED ­HDD LED +

POWER LED ­POWER LED +

Installing the Motherboard

1

2

Quick Start

7

Installing SATA Drives

http://youtu.be/RZsMpqxythc

2

1

3

Quick Start

8

5

4

Installing a Graphics Card

http://youtu.be/mG0GZpr9w_A

1

3

2

5

4

6

Quick Start

9

Connecting Peripheral Devices

10

Quick Start

Connecting the Power Connectors

http://youtu.be/gkDYyR_83I4

ATX_PWR1

CPU_PWR1

Quick Start

11

Power On

1

2

3

12

4

Quick Start

Contents

Unpacking .............................................................................................................. 1

Safety Information ................................................................................................. 2

Quick Start ............................................................................................................. 3

Preparing Tools and Components .......................................................................... 3

Installing a Processor ............................................................................................. 4

Installing DDR4 memory ........................................................................................ 5

Connecting the Front Panel Header ....................................................................... 6

Installing the Motherboard ..................................................................................... 7

Installing SATA Drives............................................................................................. 8

Installing a Graphics Card ...................................................................................... 9

Connecting Peripheral Devices ............................................................................ 10

Connecting the Power Connectors ....................................................................... 11

Power On............................................................................................................... 12

Specifications ....................................................................................................... 16

Block Diagram .................................................................................................... 22

Rear I/O Panel ..................................................................................................... 23

LAN Port LED Status Table................................................................................... 23

Audio Ports Configuration .................................................................................... 23

Realtek HD Audio Manager .................................................................................. 24

Overview of Components .................................................................................... 26

CPU Socket ........................................................................................................... 28

DIMM Slots ............................................................................................................ 29

PCI_E1~6: PCIe Expansion Slots .......................................................................... 30

M2_1~2: M.2 Slots (Key M) ................................................................................... 32

SATA1~6: SATA 6Gb/s Connectors ....................................................................... 33

JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors ................................................................... 35

CPU_PWR1, ATX_PWR1: Power Connectors ....................................................... 36

JUSB1~2: USB 2.0 Connectors ............................................................................. 37

JUSB3~4: USB 3.1 Gen1 Connectors ................................................................... 37

CPU_FAN1, PUMP_FAN1, SYS_FAN1~4: Fan Connectors ................................... 38

JAUD1: Front Audio Connector ............................................................................39

JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector ....................................................................... 39

JTPM1: TPM Module Connector ........................................................................... 40

JBAT1: Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper ........................................................... 40

JRGB1: RGB LED connector ................................................................................. 41

FLASHB1: BIOS FLASHBACK+ Button ................................................................. 41

Contents

13

Onboard LEDs ...................................................................................................... 42

EZ Debug LEDs ..................................................................................................... 42

DIMM LEDs ........................................................................................................... 42

XMP LED ............................................................................................................... 42

JPWRLED1: LED power input ............................................................................... 42

PCIe x16 slot LEDs................................................................................................ 43

Debug Code LED ................................................................................................... 43

Debug Code LED Table ......................................................................................... 44

ACPI States Codes ................................................................................................ 46

CPU Temperature ................................................................................................. 46

BIOS Setup ........................................................................................................... 47

Entering BIOS Setup ............................................................................................. 47

Resetting BIOS ...................................................................................................... 48

Updating BIOS ....................................................................................................... 48

EZ Mode ................................................................................................................ 50

Advanced Mode .................................................................................................... 52

SETTINGS .............................................................................................................. 53

Advanced ............................................................................................................... 53

Boot ....................................................................................................................... 59

Security ................................................................................................................. 60

Save & Exit ............................................................................................................ 61

OC .......................................................................................................................... 62

M-FLASH .............................................................................................................. 70

OC PROFILE .......................................................................................................... 71

HARDWARE MONITOR .......................................................................................... 72

Software Description ........................................................................................... 73

Installing Windows® 10 ......................................................................................... 73

Installing Drivers .................................................................................................. 73

Installing Utilities ................................................................................................. 73

APP MANAGER ..................................................................................................... 74

LIVE UPDATE 6 ...................................................................................................... 75

COMMAND CENTER ............................................................................................. 77

GAMING APP ......................................................................................................... 81

X-BOOST ............................................................................................................... 86

MYSTICLIGHT ........................................................................................................ 88

MSI SMART TOOL ................................................................................................. 90

RAMDISK............................................................................................................... 92

Killer Control Center ............................................................................................ 93

DRAGON EYE ........................................................................................................ 94

14

Contents

Nahimic 2 .............................................................................................................. 95

SteelSeries Engine 3 ............................................................................................ 99

®

Intel

Extreme Tuning Utility .............................................................................. 101

CPU-Z.................................................................................................................. 102

TriDef VR ............................................................................................................. 103

TriDef SmartCam ................................................................................................ 106

RAID Configuration ............................................................................................ 107

Using Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM ......................................... 107

Degraded RAID Array ......................................................................................... 110

M.2 PCIe SSD RAID ............................................................................................. 112

Intel® Optane™ Memory Configuration ............................................................ 115

System Requirements ....................................................................................... 115

Installing the Intel
Removing the Intel

Troubleshooting .................................................................................................. 118

®

Optane™ memory .............................................................. 115

®

Optane™ memory ............................................................. 117

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................ 119

Contents

15

Specifications

CPU

Chipset Intel

Memory

Supports 8th Generation Intel
Pentium

3466(OC)/ 3400(OC)/ 3333(OC)/ 3300(OC)/ 3200(OC)/
3000(OC)/ 2800(OC)/ 2667/ 2400/ 2133 MHz Memory

* Please refer www.msi.com for more information on compatible memory.

®

®

and Celeron® Processors for Socket LGA1151

®

Z370 Express Chipset

Core™ Processors, and Intel®

y 4x DDR4 memory slots, support up to 64GB
y Supports DDR4 4000+(OC)/ 3866(OC)/ 3733(OC)/ 3600(OC)/

y Supports Dual-Channel mode
y Supports non-ECC, un-buffered memory
y Supports Intel

®

Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)

Expansion Slots

Onboard Graphics

Multi-GPU

Storage

y 3x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots (support x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4 modes)
y 3x PCIe 3.0 x1 slots

y 1x HDMI

™

port, supports a maximum resolution of

4096x2160@30Hz, 2560x1600@60Hz

y 1x DisplayPort, supports a maximum resolution of

4096X2304@24Hz, 3840X2160@60Hz,1920X1200@60Hz

y Supports 2-Way NVIDIA
y Supports 3-Way AMD

®

Z370 Chipset

Intel

®

SLI™ Technology

®

CrossFire™ Technology

y 6x SATA 6Gb/s ports*
y 2x M.2 slots (Key M)

 Support up to PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA 6Gb/s
 M2_1 slot supports 2242/ 2260 /2280/ 22110 storage

devices

 M2_2 slot supports 2242/ 2260 /2280 storage devices

®

 Intel

Optane™ Memory Ready for all M.2 slots

y Supports Intel

®

Smart Response Technology for Intel Core

processors

* The SATA1/ SATA5 port will be unavailable when an M.2 SATA SSD module
has been installed in the M.2_1/ M.2_2 slot. The SATA5 and SATA 6 ports will be
unavailable when M.2 PCIe SSD module has been installed in the M.2_2 slot.
Please refer to page 33 for M.2 & SATA combination table.

Continued on next page

™

Specifications

16

Continued from previous page

®

Intel

Z370 Chipset

y Supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 for SATA

RAID

storage devices

y Supports RAID 0 and RAID 1 for M.2 storage devices*

* M.2 PCIe RAID volume can be created with M.2/Optane Genie. Please refer to
page 115 for details.

y ASMedia

 1x USB 3.1 Gen2 (SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps) Type-C port

on the back panel

 1x USB 3.1 Gen2 (SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps) Type-A port

on the back panel

USB

y Intel

 6x USB 3.1 Gen1 (SuperSpeed USB) ports (2 Type-A
ports on the back panel, 4 ports available through the
internal USB connectors)

 7x USB 2.0 (High-speed USB) ports (3 Type-A ports on
the back panel, 4 ports available through the internal
USB connectors)

Audio

y Realtek
y 7.1-Channel High Definition Audio

LAN 1x Killer

®

ASM3142 Chipset

®

Z370 Chipset

®

ALC1220 Codec

TM

E2500 Gigabit LAN controller

Back Panel
Connectors

y 1x PS/2 mouse & keyboard combo port
y 3x USB 2.0 ports

 1x BIOS FLASHBACK+ port

y 1x Clear CMOS button
y 1x DisplayPort
y 1x HDMI

™

port
y 1x USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A port
y 1x USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C port
y 1x LAN (RJ45) port
y 2x USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-A ports
y 1x Optical S/PDIF OUT connector
y 5x OFC audio jacks

Continued on next page

Specifications

17

Internal Connectors

Continued from previous page

y 1x 24-pin ATX main power connector
y 1x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
y 6x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
y 2x M.2 slots
y 2x USB 3.1 Gen1 connectors (supports additional 4 USB 3.1

Gen1 ports)

y 2x USB 2.0 connectors (supports additional 4 USB 2.0

ports)

y 1x 4-pin CPU fan connector
y 1x 4-pin water pump fan connector
y 4x 4-pin system fan connectors
y 1x Front panel audio connector
y 2x Front panel connectors
y 1x RGB LED connector
y 1x TPM module connector
y 1x Chassis Intrusion connector
y 1x Clear CMOS jumper
y 1x BIOS FLASHBACK+ button
y 1x 2-Digit Debug Code LED
y 1x LED power input connector

I/O Controller NUVOTON NCT6795 Controller Chip

y CPU/System temperature detection

Hardware Monitor

From Factor

BIOS Features

Specifications

18

y CPU/System fan speed detection
y CPU/System fan speed control

y ATX Form Factor
y 12.0 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)

y 1x 128 Mb flash
y UEFI AMI BIOS
y ACPI 6.0 , SMBIOS 3.0
y Multi-language

Continued on next page

Software

Continued from previous page

y Drivers
y APP MANAGER
y SUPER CHARGER
y COMMAND CENTER
y LIVE UPDATE 6
y MSI SMART TOOL
y RAMDISK
y DPC LATENCY TUNER
y FAST BOOT
y X-BOOST
y DRAGON EYE
y GAMING APP
y MYSTIC LIGHT
y Nahimic Audio
y Killer Network Manager
y Open Broadcaster Software (OBS)

®

y TriDef

VR & SmartCam
y SteelSeries Engine 3
y WTFast*
y CPU-Z MSI GAMING

®

y Intel

Extreme Tuning Utility
y Google Chrome™ ,Google Toolbar, Google Drive
y Norton™ Internet Security Solution

* This offer is valid for a limited period only, for more information please visit
www.msi.com

Continued on next page

Specifications

19

Special Features

Continued from previous page

y Audio

 Audio Boost 4
 Nahimic 2

y Network

 GAMING LAN with Killer LAN Manager

y Storage

 Twin Turbo M.2

y Fan

 Pump Fan
 Smart Fan Control

y LED

 Mystic Light
 Mystic Light Extension (RGB)
 Mystic light SYNC
 EZ DEBUG LED

y Protection

 DDR4 Steel Armor
 M.2 Shield
 PCI-E Steel Armor

y Performance

 Multi GPU – SLI Technology
 Multi GPU – CrossFire Technology
 DDR4 Boost
 OC Engine(Clock gen)
 USB with type A+C
 Lightning USB(3142)

y Stability

 Military Class 6

y VR

 VR Ready

Specifications

20

Continued on next page

Special Features

Continued from previous page

y Gamer Experience

 GAMING HOTKEY
 GAMING MOUSE Control

y BIOS

 Click BIOS 5
 BIOS FLASHBACK+

y Certification

 Quadro SLI Ready
 Quadro Ready
 SteelSeries Certified

Specifications

21

Block Diagram

HDMI DisplayPort

2 Channel DDR4 Memory

CPU

PCI Express Bus

2 x M.2

6 x SATA 6Gb/s

6 x USB 3.1 Gen1

7 x USB 2.0

x4

Switch

SATA 5/6

P/S2 Mouse / Keyboard

DMI 3.0

PCI Express Bus

LPC Bus

NV6795

Super I/O

Z370

PCI-E Bus

PCI Express Bus

Realtek

ALC1220

Audio Jacks

x2

x1

x1

x1

x4

PCIe x1 slot

PCIe x1 slot

PCIe x1 slot

PCIe x4 slot

Killer
E2500

ASMEDIA
ASM3142

2 x USB 3.1 Gen2

Block Diagram

22

Rear I/O Panel

USB 2.0/

BIOS FLASHBACK+

PS/2 Port

USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A

Audio Ports

LAN

DisplayPort

USB 2.0

USB 3.1 Gen1

Clear CMOS
button

USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C

Optical S/PDIF-Out

y Clear CMOS button - Power off your computer. Press and hold the Clear CMOS

button for 5 seconds to reset BIOS to default values.

y BIOS FLASHBACK+ port - Please refer to page 49 for Updating BIOS with BIOS

FLASHBACK+.

LAN Port LED Status Table

Link/ Activity LED

Status Description

Off No link

Yellow Linked

Blinking Data activity

Speed LED

Status Description

Off 10 Mbps connection

Green 100 Mbps connection

Orange 1 Gbps connection

Audio Ports Configuration

Audio Ports

Channel

2 4 6 8

Center/ Subwoofer Out ● ●

Rear Speaker Out ● ● ●

Line-In/ Side Speaker Out ●

Line-Out/ Front Speaker Out ● ● ● ●

Mic In

(●: connected, Blank: empty)

Rear I/O Panel

23

Realtek HD Audio Manager

After installing the Realtek HD Audio driver, the Realtek HD Audio Manager icon will
appear in the system tray. Double click on the icon to launch.

Device
Selection

Advanced
Settings

Application
Enhancement

Main Volume

Profiles

Jack Status

Connector
Settings

y Device Selection - allows you to select a audio output source to change the related

options. The check sign indicates the devices as default.

y Application Enhancement - the array of options will provide you a complete guidance

of anticipated sound effect for both output and input device.

y Main Volume - controls the volume or balance the right/left side of the speakers that

you plugged in front or rear panel by adjust the bar.

y Profiles - toggles between profiles.
y Advanced Settings - provides the mechanism to deal with 2 independent audio

streams.

y Jack Status - depicts all render and capture devices currently connected with your

computer.

y Connector Settings - configures the connection settings.

Auto popup dialog

When you plug into a device at an audio jack, a dialogue window will pop up asking you
which device is current connected.

Each jack corresponds to its default setting as shown on the next page.

Rear I/O Panel

24

Audio jacks to headphone and microphone diagram

Audio jacks to stereo speakers diagram

AUDIO INPUT

Audio jacks to 7.1-channel speakers diagram

AUDIO INPUT

Rear Front

Side Center/

Subwoofer

Rear I/O Panel

25

Overview of Components

SYS_FAN1

CPU SocketCPU_PWR1

CPU_FAN1

DIMMA1

DIMMA2

DIMMB1

FLASHB1

DIMMB2

PUMP_FAN1

SYS_FAN4

ATX_PWR1

PCI_E1

PCI_E2

PCI_E3

PCI_E4

PCI_E5

PCI_E6

Overview of Components

26

M2_1

M2_2

JAUD1

JRGB1

SYSFAN2

JTPM1

JPWRLED1

JUSB1

JUSB2

JUSB3

JFP1

JBAT1

JUSB4

SATA▼1▲2

SATA▼3▲4

SATA▼5▲6

SYSFAN3

JCI1

JFP2

Component Contents

Port Name Port Type Page

CPU_FAN1, PUMP_FAN1,
SYS_FAN1~4

CPU_PWR1, ATX_PWR1 Power Connectors 36

CPU Socket LGA1151 CPU Socket 28

DIMMA1, A2, B1, B2 DIMM Slots 29

FLASHB1 BIOS FLASHBACK+ Button 41

JAUD1 Front Audio Connector 39

JBAT1 Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper 40

JCI1 Chassis Intrusion Connector 39

JFP1, JFP2 Front Panel Connectors 35

JRGB1 RGB LED connector 41

JPWRLED1 LED power inpu 42

JTPM1 TPM Module Connector 40

JUSB1~2 USB 2.0 Connectors 37

Fan Connectors 38

JUSB3~4 USB 3.1 Gen1 Connectors 37

M2_1~2 M.2 Slots (Key M) 32

PCI_E1~6 PCIe Expansion Slots 30

SATA1~6 SATA 6Gb/s Connectors 33

Overview of Components

27

CPU Socket

Introduction to the LGA 1151 CPU

The surface of the LGA 1151 CPU has
two notches and a golden triangle to
assist in correctly lining up the CPU for
motherboard placement. The golden
triangle is the Pin 1 indicator.

Important

y

Always unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing

the CPU.

y

Please retain the CPU protective cap after installing the processor. MSI will deal with
Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests if only the motherboard comes with
the protective cap on the CPU socket.

y

When installing a CPU, always remember to install a CPU heatsink. A CPU heatsink
is necessary to prevent overheating and maintain system stability.

y

Confirm that the CPU heatsink has formed a tight seal with the CPU before booting
your system.

y

Overheating can seriously damage the CPU and motherboard. Always make sure
the cooling fans work properly to protect the CPU from overheating. Be sure to apply
an even layer of thermal paste (or thermal tape) between the CPU and the heatsink to
enhance heat dissipation.

y

Whenever the CPU is not installed, always protect the CPU socket pins by covering
the socket with the plastic cap.

y

If you purchased a separate CPU and heatsink/ cooler, Please refer to the
documentation in the heatsink/ cooler package for more details about installation.

y

This motherboard is designed to support overclocking. Before attempting to
overclock, please make sure that all other system components can tolerate
overclocking. Any attempt to operate beyond product specifications is not
recommended. MSI
operation beyond product specifications.

®

does not guarantee the damages or risks caused by inadequate

Overview of Components

28

DIMM Slots

DIMMA1 DIMMB1

Channel A Channel B

DIMMA2 DIMMB2

Memory module installation recommendation

DIMMB2 DIMMB2

DIMMA2 DIMMA2 DIMMA2

DIMMB1

DIMMA1

Important

y

Always insert memory modules in the DIMMA2 slot first.

y

Due to chipset resource usage, the available capacity of memory will be a little less
than the amount of installed.

y

Based on Intel CPU specification, the Memory DIMM voltage below 1.35V is
suggested to protect the CPU.

y

Please note that the maximum capacity of addressable memory is 4GB or less
for 32-bit Windows OS due to the memory address limitation. Therefore, we
recommended that you to install 64-bit Windows OS if you want to install more than
4GB memory on the motherboard.

y

Some memory may operate at a lower frequency than the marked value when
overclocking due to the memory frequency operates dependent on its Serial Presence
Detect (SPD). Go to BIOS and find the Memory Try It! to set the memory frequency if
you want to operate the memory at the marked or at a higher frequency.

y

It is recommended to use a more efficient memory cooling system for full DIMMs
installation or overclocking.

y

The stability and compatibility of installed memory module depend on installed CPU
and devices when overclocking.

Overview of Components

29

PCI_E1~6: PCIe Expansion Slots

PCI_E1: PCIe 3.0 x16 (CPU lanes)

PCI_E2: PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH lanes)

PCI_E3: PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH lanes)

PCI_E4: PCIe 3.0 x8 (CPU lanes)

PCI_E5: PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH lanes)

PCI_E6: PCIe 3.0 x4 (PCH lanes)

Multiple graphics cards installation recommendation

x16 x8

x8

Overview of Components

30

x8

Important

If you install a large and heavy
graphics card, you need to use
a tool such as MSI Gaming
Series Graphics Card Bolster to
support its weight and to prevent
deformation of the slot.

x8

x4

Important

y

For a single PCIe x16 expansion card installation with optimum performance, using
the PCI_E1 slot is recommended.

y

When adding or removing expansion cards, always turn off the power supply and
unplug the power supply power cable from the power outlet. Read the expansion
card’s documentation to check for any necessary additional hardware or software
changes.

Installing SLI graphics cards

For power supply recommendations for SLI configurations, please refer to the user
guide of your graphics card to make sure you meet all the system requirements.

To install SLI graphics cards:

1. Turn off your computer and disconnect the power cord, install two graphics cards

into the PCI_E1 and PCI_E4 slots.

2. Connect the two cards together using the SLI Bridge Connector.

3. Connect all PCIe power connectors of the graphics cards.

4. Reconnect the power cord, power up the computer and install the drivers and

software included in your graphics card package.

5. Right-click the Windows desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel from the menu,

click on Configure SLI, Surround, PhysX in the left task pane and select Maximize

3D performance in the SLI configuration menu, and then click Apply.

Overview of Components

31

M2_1~2: M.2 Slots (Key M)

Important

y

Intel® RST only supports PCIe M.2 SSD with UEFI ROM.

y

Intel® OptaneTM Memory Ready for all M.2 slots.

M2_1

M2_2

Installing M.2 module

1. Remove the screw from the base screw.

2. Remove the base screw.

3. Tighten the base screw into the hole of

the distance to the M.2 slot as the length
your M.2 module.

4. Insert your M.2 module into the M.2 slot

at a 30-degree angle.

Video Demonstration

Watch the video to learn how to use M.2
Shield.

https://youtu.be/b-N28ajX_C4

5. Put the screw in the notch on
the trailing edge of your M.2
module and tighten it into the
base screw.

4

3

1

30°

2

Using M.2 shield

We provide the M.2 shield on the M2_2 slot to help
dissipate heat away from the M.2 module. Before
installing the M.2 module for the first time, you need
to remove the screw, lift the cover and remove the
protective film from the thermal pad.

Important

If you don’t need the M.2 shield, you can
remove it.

Overview of Components

32

5

SATA1~6: SATA 6Gb/s Connectors

These connectors are SATA 6Gb/s interface ports. Each connector can connect to one
SATA device.

SATA2
SATA1

SATA4

SATA3
SATA6
SATA5

Important

y

The SATA1 / SATA5 port will be unavailable when an M.2 SATA SSD module has been

installed in the M2_1/ M2_2 slot.

y

The SATA5 and SATA6 ports will be unavailable when an M.2 PCIe SSD module has

been install en the M2_2 slot.

y

Please do not fold the SATA cable at a 90-degree angle. Data loss may result during

transmission otherwise.

y

SATA cables have identical plugs on either sides of the cable. However, it is
recommended that the flat connector be connected to the motherboard for space
saving purposes.

M.2 & SATA combination table

Slot Available SATA connectors

M2_1 PCIe SATA PCIe SATA Empty Empty SATA PCIe

M2_2 PCIe PCIe SATA SATA SATA PCIe Empty Empty
SATA1 ✓ ─ ✓ ─ ✓ ✓ ─ ✓
SATA2 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
SATA3 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
SATA4 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
SATA5 ─ ─ ─ ─ ─ ─ ✓ ✓
SATA6 ─ ─ ✓ ✓ ✓ ─ ✓ ✓

(SATA: M.2 SATA SSD, PCIe: M.2 PCIe SSD, ✓: available, ─: unavailable)

Overview of Components

33

M.2 slots with examples of various combination possibilities

2xM.2 PCIe SSDs + 4xSATA HDDs

PCIe

PCIe

SATA1SATA4

SATA3 SATA2

1xM.2 PCIe SSD + 1xM.2 SATA SSD +
5xSATA HDDs

PCIe

SATA

SATA1SATA4

SATA3 SATA2

SATA6

1xM.2 PCIe SSD + 6xSATA HDDs

2xM.2 SATA SSDs + 4xSATA HDDs

SATA

SATA4

SATA3 SATA2

SATA

SATA6

1xM.2 PCIe SSD + 1xM.2 SATA SSD +
3xSATA HDDs

SATA

SATA4

SATA3 SATA2

PCIe

1xM.2 PCIe SSD + 4xSATA HDDs

Overview of Components

34

PCIe

SATA1SATA4

SATA3 SATA2

SATA6

SATA5

PCIe

SATA1SATA4

SATA3 SATA2

1xM.2 SATA SSD + 5xSATA HDDs

1xM.2 SATA SSD + 5xSATA HDDs

SATA

SATA4

SATA3 SATA2

SATA6

SATA5

SATA

JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors

These connectors connect to the switches and LEDs on the front panel.

2 10

JFP1

1

1 HDD LED + 2 Power LED +
3 HDD LED - 4 Power LED ­5 Reset Switch 6 Power Switch
7 Reset Switch 8 Power Switch
9 Reserved 10 No Pin

1

JFP2

1 Speaker - 2 Buzzer +
3 Buzzer - 4 Speaker +

9

SATA1SATA4

SATA3 SATA2

SATA6

Overview of Components

35

CPU_PWR1, ATX_PWR1: Power Connectors

These connectors allow you to connect an ATX power supply.

8
4 1

1 Ground 5 +12V

2 Ground 6 +12V

3 Ground 7 +12V

4 Ground 8 +12V

1 +3.3V 13 +3.3V

2 +3.3V 14 -12V

3 Ground 15 Ground

24

12

ATX_PWR1

131

4 +5V 16 PS-ON#

5 Ground 17 Ground

6 +5V 18 Ground

7 Ground 19 Ground

8 PWR OK 20 Res

9 5VSB 21 +5V

10 +12V 22 +5V

11 +12V 23 +5V

12 +3.3V 24 Ground

5

CPU_PWR1

Important

Make sure that all the power cables are securely connected to a proper ATX power
supply to ensure stable operation of the motherboard.

Overview of Components

36

JUSB1~2: USB 2.0 Connectors

These connectors allow you to connect USB 2.0 ports on the front panel.

2 10

1

1 VCC 2 VCC

3 USB0- 4 USB1-

5 USB0+ 6 USB1+

7 Ground 8 Ground

9 No Pin 10 NC

9

Important

y

Note that the VCC and Ground pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible

damage.

y

In order to recharge your iPad,iPhone and iPod through USB ports, please install

®

MSI

SUPER CHARGER utility.

JUSB3~4: USB 3.1 Gen1 Connectors

These connectors allow you to connect USB 3.1 Gen1 ports on the front panel.

JUSB3 is VR Ready connector.

10 11

1

20

1 Power 11 USB2.0+

2 USB3_RX_DN 12 USB2.0-

3 USB3_RX_DP 13 Ground

4 Ground 14 USB3_TX_C_DP

5 USB3_TX_C_DN 15 USB3_TX_C_DN

6 USB3_TX_C_DP 16 Ground

7 Ground 17 USB3_RX_DP

8 USB2.0- 18 USB3_RX_DN

9 USB2.0+ 19 Power

10 GND 20 No Pin

The

Important

Note that the Power and Ground pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible
damage.

Overview of Components

37

CPU_FAN1, PUMP_FAN1, SYS_FAN1~4: Fan Connectors

Fan connectors can be classified as PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) Mode or DC Mode.
PWM Mode fan connectors provide constant 12V output and adjust fan speed with
speed control signal. DC Mode fan connectors control fan speed by changing voltage.
When you plug a 3-pin (Non-PWM) fan to a fan connector in PWM mode, the fan speed
will always maintain at 100%, which might create a lot of noise. You can follow the
instruction below to adjust the fan connector to PWM or DC Mode.

Default PWM Mode fan connectors

1

1

CPU_FAN1

Default DC Mode fan connectors

1

SYS_FAN1/ SYS_FAN3/ SYS_FAN4

Switching fan mode and adjusting fan speed

You can switch between PWM mode and DC mode and adjust fan speed in BIOS >
HARDWARE MONITOR.

Select PWM mode or DC mode

PUMP_FAN1

1

SYS_FAN2

There are gradient points of the fan speed that allow you to adjust
fan speed in relation to CPU temperature.

Important

Make sure fans are working properly after switching the PWM/ DC mode.

Pin definition of fan connectors

PWM Mode pin definition

1 Ground 2 +12V

3 Sense 4 Speed Control Signal

Overview of Components

38

1 Ground 2 Voltage Control

3 Sense 4 NC

DC Mode pin definition

JAUD1: Front Audio Connector

This connector allows you to connect audio jacks on the front panel.

2 10

1

1 MIC L 2 Ground
3 MIC R 4 NC
5 Head Phone R 6 MIC Detection
7 SENSE_SEND 8 No Pin
9 Head Phone L

9

10

Head Phone Detection

JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector

This connector allows you to connect the chassis intrusion switch cable.

Normal
(default)

Using chassis intrusion detector

1. Connect the JCI1 connector to the chassis intrusion switch/ sensor on the chassis.

2. Close the chassis cover.

3. Go to BIOS > SETTINGS > Security > Chassis Intrusion Configuration.

4. Set Chassis Intrusion to Enabled.

5. Press F10 to save and exit and then press the Enter key to select Yes.

6. Once the chassis cover is opened again, a warning message will be displayed on

screen when the computer is turned on.

Trigger the chassis
intrusion event

Resetting the chassis intrusion warning

1. Go to BIOS > SETTINGS > Security > Chassis Intrusion Configuration.

2. Set Chassis Intrusion to Reset.

3. Press F10 to save and exit and then press the Enter key to select Yes.

Overview of Components

39

JTPM1: TPM Module Connector

This connector is for TPM (Trusted Platform Module). Please refer to the TPM security
platform manual for more details and usages.

2 14

1

1 LPC Clock 2
3 LPC Reset 4 3.3V Power

LPC address & data pin0

5

LPC address & data pin1

7

LPC address & data pin2

9

LPC address & data pin3

11
13 LPC Frame 14 Ground

13

3V Standby power

6 Serial IRQ

8 5V Power
10 No Pin
12 Ground

JBAT1: Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper

There is CMOS memory onboard that is external powered from a battery located on
the motherboard to save system configuration data. If you want to clear the system
configuration, set the jumper to clear the CMOS memory.

Keep Data
(default)

Clear CMOS/
Reset BIOS

Resetting BIOS to default values

1. Power off the computer and unplug the power cord

2. Use a jumper cap to short JBAT1 for about 5-10 seconds.

3. Remove the jumper cap from JBAT1.

4. Plug the power cord and power on the computer.

Overview of Components

40

JRGB1: RGB LED connector

This connector allows you to connect the 5050 RGB LED strips.

1

1 +12V 2 G
3 R 4 B

Extension cable

JRGB1

5050 LED strip

Video Demonstration

Watch the video to learn how to install 5050 RGB LED strips to RGB LED
connector.

https://youtu.be/CqNHyADzd2Q

Important

y

This connector supports 5050 RGB multi-color LED strips (12V/G/R/B) with the
maximum power rating of 3A (12V). Please keeping the LED strip shorter than 2
meters to prevent dimming.

y

Always turn off the power supply and unplug the power cord from the power outlet
before installing or removing the RGB LED strip.

y

Please use MSI’s software to control the extended LED strip.

FLASHB1: BIOS FLASHBACK+ Button

This button is used to activate the BIOS FLASHBACK+ function. Please refer to page 49
for Updating BIOS with BIOS FLASHBACK+.

Overview of Components

41

Onboard LEDs

EZ Debug LEDs

These LEDs indicate the status of key components during booting process. When an
error is occurred, the corresponding LED stays lit until the problem is solved.

CPU - indicates CPU is not detected or fail.
DRAM - indicates DRAM is not detected or fail.
VGA - indicates GPU is not detected or fail.
BOOT - indicates the booting device is not detected

DIMM LEDs

These LED indicate the memory modules are installed.

XMP LED

This LED indicates the XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) mode is enabled.

DIMM LEDs

XMP LED

or fail.

JPWRLED1: LED power input

This connector is used by retailers to demonstrate onboard LED light effects.

JPWRLED1 - LED power input

Onboard LEDs

42

PCIe x16 slot LEDs

These LED indicate the PCIe x16 slots status.

LED Color PCIe slot speed status

Red x16
White x8, x4, x1

PCI_E1 LED

PCI_E4 LED
PCI_E6 LED

Debug Code LED

The Debug Code LED displays progress and error codes during and after POST. Refer
to the Debug Code LED table for details.

Hexadecimal Character Table

Hexadecimal 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 A B C D E F

Debug Code
LED display

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 A B C D E F

Boot Phases

Security (SEC) – initial low-level initialization
Pre-EFI Initialization (PEI) – memory initialization
Driver Execution Environment (DXE) – main hardware initialization
Boot Device Selection (BDS) – system setup, pre-OS user interface & selecting a

bootable device (CD/DVD, HDD, USB, Network, Shell, …)

Onboard LEDs

43

Debug Code LED Table

SEC Progress Codes

Power on. Reset type detection (soft/

01

hard)

02 AP initialization before microcode loading

System Agent initialization before

03

microcode loading

PCH initialization before microcode

04

loading

06 Microcode loading

07 AP initialization after microcode loading

System Agent initialization after

08

microcode loading

09 PCH initialization after microcode loading

0B Cache initialization

SEC Error Codes

0C - 0D Reserved for future AMI SEC error codes

0E Microcode not found

0F Microcode not loaded

PEI Progress Codes

10 PEI Core is started

11 Pre-memory CPU initialization is started

Pre-memory CPU initialization (CPU

12 - 14

module specific)

Pre-memory System Agent initialization

15

is started

Pre-Memory System Agent initialization

16 - 18

(System Agent module specific)

19 Pre-memory PCH initialization is started

Pre-memory PCH initialization (PCH

1A - 1C

module specific)

Memory initialization. Serial Presence

2B

Detect (SPD) data reading

Memory initialization. Memory presence

2C

detection

Memory initialization. Programming

2D

memory timing information

Memory initialization. Configuring

2E

memory

2F Memory initialization (other)

31 Memory Installed

32 CPU post-memory initialization is started

CPU post-memory initialization. Cache

33

initialization

CPU post-memory initialization.

34

Application Processor(s) (AP)
initialization

CPU post-memory initialization. Boot

35

Strap Processor (BSP) selection

CPU post-memory initialization. System

36

Management Mode (SMM) initialization

Post-Memory System Agent initialization

37

is started

Post-Memory System Agent initialization

38 - 3A

(System Agent module specific)

3B Post-Memory PCH initialization is started

Post-Memory PCH initialization (PCH

3C - 3E

module specific)

4F DXE IPL is started

PEI Error Codes

Memory initialization error. Invalid

50

memory type or incompatible memory
speed

Memory initialization error. SPD reading

51

has failed

Memory initialization error. Invalid

52

memory size or memory modules do
not match

Memory initialization error. No usable

53

memory detected

54 Unspecified memory initialization error

55 Memory not installed

56 Invalid CPU type or Speed

57 CPU mismatch

CPU self test failed or possible CPU

58

cache error

CPU micro-code is not found or micro-

59

code update is failed

5A Internal CPU error

5B Reset PPI is not available

5C - 5F Reserved for future AMI error codes

DXE Progress Codes

60 DXE Core is started

61 NVRAM initialization

62 Installation of the PCH Runtime Services

Onboard LEDs

44

63 CPU DXE initialization is started

CPU DXE initialization (CPU module

64 - 67

specific)

68 PCI host bridge initialization

69 System Agent DXE initialization is started

System Agent DXE SMM initialization is

6A

started

System Agent DXE initialization (System

6B - 6F

Agent module specific)

70 PCH DXE initialization is started

71 PCH DXE SMM initialization is started

72 PCH devices initialization

PCH DXE Initialization (PCH module

73 - 77

specific)

78 ACPI module initialization

79 CSM initialization

7A - 7F Reserved for future AMI DXE codes

Boot Device Selection (BDS) phase is

90

started

91 Driver connecting is started

92 PCI Bus initialization is started

93 PCI Bus Hot Plug Controller Initialization

94 PCI Bus Enumeration 32

95 PCI Bus Request Resources

96 PCI Bus Assign Resources

97 Console Output devices connect

98 Console input devices connect

99 Super IO Initialization

9A USB initialization is started

9B USB Reset

9C USB Detect

9D USB Enable

9E -9F Reserved for future AMI codes

A0 IDE initialization is started

A1 IDE Reset

A2 IDE Detect

A3 IDE Enable

A4 SCSI initialization is started

A5 SCSI Reset

A6 SCSI Detect

A7 SCSI Enable

A8 Setup Verifying Password

A9 Start of Setup

AB Setup Input Wait

AD Ready To Boot event

AE Legacy Boot event

AF Exit Boot Services event

B0 Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP Begin

B1 Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP End

B2 Legacy Option ROM Initialization

B3 System Reset

B4 USB hot plug

B5 PCI bus hot plug

B6 Clean-up of NVRAM

Configuration Reset (reset of NVRAM

B7

settings)

B8 - BF Reserved for future AMI codes

DXE Error Codes

D0 CPU initialization error

D1 System Agent initialization error

D2 PCH initialization error

Some of the Architectural Protocols are

D3

not available

PCI resource allocation error. Out of

D4

Resources

D5 No Space for Legacy Option ROM

D6 No Console Output Devices are found

D7 No Console Input Devices are found

D8 Invalid password

Error loading Boot Option (LoadImage

D9

returned error)

Boot Option is failed (StartImage

DA

returned error)

DB Flash update is failed

DC Reset protocol is not available

S3 Resume Progress Codes

S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is

E0

called by the DXE IPL)

E1 S3 Boot Script execution

E2 Video repost

E3 OS S3 wake vector call

E4 - E7 Reserved for future AMI progress codes

S3 Resume Error Codes

E8 S3 Resume Failed

Onboard LEDs

45

E9 S3 Resume PPI not Found

EA S3 Resume Boot Script Error

EB S3 OS Wake Error

EC - EF Reserved for future AMI error codes

Recovery Progress Codes

Recovery condition triggered by firmware

F0

(Auto recovery)

Recovery condition triggered by user

F1

(Forced recovery)

F2 Recovery process started

F3 Recovery fi rmware image is found

F4 Recovery fi rmware image is loaded

F5 - F7 Reserved for future AMI progress codes

Recovery Error Codes

F8 Recovery PPI is not available

F9 Recovery capsule is not found

FA Invalid recovery capsule

FB - FF Reserved for future AMI error codes

ACPI States Codes

The following codes appear after booting
and the operating system into ACPI
modes.

01 System is entering S1 sleep state

02 System is entering S2 sleep state

03 System is entering S3 sleep state

04 System is entering S4 sleep state

05 System is entering S5 sleep state

System is waking up from the S1 sleep

10

state

System is waking up from the S2 sleep

20

state

System is waking up from the S3 sleep

30

state

System is waking up from the S4 sleep

40

state

System has transitioned into ACPI mode.

AC

Interrupt controller is in PIC mode.

System has transitioned into ACPI mode.

AA

Interrupt controller is in APIC mode.

CPU Temperature

Displays current CPU temperature after

00 - 99

the system has fully booted into the OS.

Onboard LEDs

46

BIOS Setup

The default settings offer the optimal performance for system stability in normal
conditions. You should always keep the default settings to avoid possible system
damage or failure booting unless you are familiar with BIOS.

Important

y

BIOS items are continuously update for better system performance. Therefore, the
description may be slightly different from the latest BIOS and should be for reference
only. You could also refer to the HELP information panel for BIOS item description.

y

The pictures in this chapter are for reference only and may vary from the product you
purchased.

Entering BIOS Setup

Please refer the following methods to enter BIOS setup.

y Press Delete key, when the Press DEL key to enter Setup Menu, F11 to enter Boot

Menu message appears on the screen during the boot process.

y Use MSI FAST BOOT application. Click on GO2BIOS button and choose OK. The

system will reboot and enter BIOS setup directly.

Click on GO2BIOS

Function key

F1: General Help
F2: Add/ Remove a favorite item
F3: Enter Favorites menu
F4: Enter CPU Specifications menu
F5: Enter Memory-Z menu
F6: Load optimized defaults
F7: Switch between Advanced mode and EZ mode
F8: Load Overclocking Profile
F9: Save Overclocking Profile
F10: Save Change and Reset*
F12: Take a screenshot and save it to USB flash drive (FAT/ FAT32 format only).
Ctrl+F: Enter Search page

* When you press F10, a confirmation window appears and it provides the modification
information. Select between Yes or No to confirm your choice.

BIOS Setup

47

Resetting BIOS

You might need to restore the default BIOS setting to solve certain problems. There are
several ways to reset BIOS:

y Go to BIOS and press F6 to load optimized defaults.
y Short the Clear CMOS jumper on the motherboard.

Important

Be sure the computer is off before clearing CMOS data. Please refer to the Clear
CMOS jumper section for resetting BIOS.

Updating BIOS

Updating BIOS with M-FLASH

Before updating:
Please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI

website. And then save the BIOS file into the USB flash drive.
Updating BIOS:

1. Press Del key to enter the BIOS Setup during POST.

2. Insert the USB flash drive that contains the update file into the computer.

3. Select the M-FLASH tab and click on Yes to reboot the system and enter the flash

mode.

4. Select a BIOS file to perform the BIOS update process.

5. After the flashing process is 100% completed, the system will reboot

automatically.

Updating the BIOS with Live Update 6

Before updating:
Make sure the LAN driver is already installed and the Internet connection is set

properly.
Updating BIOS:

1. Install and launch MSI LIVE UPDATE 6.

2. Select BIOS Update.

3. Click on Scan button.

4. Click on Download icon to download and install the latest BIOS file.

5. Click Next and choose In Windows mode. And then click Next and Start to start

updating BIOS.

6. After the flashing process is 100% completed, the system will restart

automatically.

48

BIOS Setup

Updating BIOS with BIOS FLASHBACK+

Before updating:
Please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI

website and rename the BIOS file to MSI.ROM. And then, save the MSI.ROM file to the
root of USB flash drive.

Important

Only the FAT32 format USB flash drive supports updating BIOS by BIOS FLASHBACK+.

1. Connect power supply to CPU_PWR1 and ATX_PWR1. (No other components are

necessary but power supply.)

2. Plug the USB flash drive that contains the MSI.ROM file into the BIOS

FLASHBACK+ port on rear I/O panel.

3. Press the BIOS FLASHBACK+ button to flash BIOS, and the light of BIOS

FLASHBACK+ button starts flashing.

4. After the flashing BIOS process is 100% completed, the button light would stop

flashing and would be off simultaneously.

®

BIOS Setup

49

EZ Mode

At EZ mode, it provides the basic system information and allows you to configure the
basic setting. To configure the advanced BIOS settings, please enter the Advanced
Mode by pressing the Setup Mode switch or F7 function key.

XMP switch

SearchScreenshotSetup Mode switch

Language

System
information

GAME BOOST
switch

Information

display

M-Flash

Favorites

Hardware

Monitor

Boot device
priority bar

Function
buttons

y GAME BOOST switch - click on it to toggle the GAME BOOST for OC.

Important

Please don’t make any changes in OC menu and don’t load defaults to keep the
optimal performance and system stability after activating the GAME BOOST function.

y XMP switch - click on the inner circle to enable/ disable the X.M.P. (Extreme Memory
Profile). Switch the outer circle to select the X.M.P. profile. This switch will only be
available if the X.M.P. supported memory module is installed.

y Setup Mode switch - press this tab or the F7 key to switch between Advanced mode
and EZ mode.

y Screenshot - click on this tab or the F12 key to take a screenshot and save it to USB
flash drive (FAT/ FAT32 format only).

y Search - click on this tab or the Ctrl+F keys and the search page will show. It allows
you to search by BIOS item name, enter the item name to find the item listing. Move
the mouse over a blank space and right click the mouse to exit search page.

Important

In search page, only the F6, F10 and F12 function keys are available.

y Language - allows you to select the language of BIOS setup.

y System information - shows the CPU/ DDR speed, CPU/ MB temperature, MB/ CPU

type, memory size, CPU/ DDR voltage, BIOS version and build date.

y Boot device priority bar - you can move the device icons to change the boot priority.
The boot priority from high to low is left to right.

50

BIOS Setup

y Information display - click on the CPU, Memory, Storage, Fan Info and Help buttons

on left side to display related information.

y Function buttons - enable or disable the LAN Option ROM, M.2/Optane Genie,
Hardcore Mode, AHCI, RAID, CPU Fan Fail Warning Control and BIOS Log Review by

clicking on their respective button.

 Hardcore Mode - always keep the CPU in full speed mode to maximize system

performance. This feature will increase power consumption.

y M-Flash - click on this button to display the M-Flash menu that provides the way to
update BIOS with a USB flash drive.

y Hardware Monitor - click on this button to display the Hardware Monitor menu that
allows you to manually control the fan speed by percentage.

y Favorites - press the Favorites tab or the F3 key to enter Favorites menu. It allows
you to create personal BIOS menu where you can save and access favorite/ frequently­used BIOS setting items.

 Default HomePage - allows you to select a BIOS menu (e.g. SETTINGS, OC...,etc)

as the BIOS home page.

 Favorite1~5 - allows you to add the frequently-used/ favorite BIOS setting items

in one page.

 To add a BIOS item to a favorite page (Favorite 1~5)

1. Move the mouse over a BIOS item not only on BIOS menu but also on search

page.

2. Right-click or press F2 key.

3. Choose a favorite page and click on OK.

 To delete a BIOS item from favorite page

1. Move the mouse over a BIOS item on favorite page (Favorite 1~5)

2. Right-click or press F2 key.

3. Choose Delete and click on OK.

BIOS Setup

51

Advanced Mode

Press Setup Mode switch or F7 function key can switch between EZ Mode and
Advanced Mode in BIOS setup.

XMP switch

GAME BOOST

switch

SearchScreenshotSetup Mode switch

Language

System
information

Boot device
priority bar

BIOS menu
selection

Menu display

BIOS menu
selection

y GAME BOOST switch/ XMP switch/ Setup Mode switch/ Screenshot/ Favorites/
Language/ System information/ Boot device priority bar - please refer to the
descriptions of EZ Mode Overview section.

y BIOS menu selection - the following options are available:

 SETTINGS - allows you to specify the parameters for chipset and boot devices.
 OC - allows you to adjust the frequency and voltage. Increasing the frequency may

get better performance.

 M-FLASH - provides the way to update BIOS with a USB flash drive.
 OC PROFILE - allows you to manage overclocking profiles.
 HARDWARE MONITOR - allows you to set the speeds of fans and monitor voltages

of system.

 BOARD EXPLORER - provides the information of installed devices on this

motherboard.

y Menu display - provides BIOS setting items and information to be configured.

52

BIOS Setup

SETTINGS

System Status

f System Date

Sets the system date. Use tab key to switch between date elements.
The format is <day> <month> <date> <year>.
<day> Day of the week, from Sun to Sat, determined by BIOS. Read-only.

<month> The month from Jan. through Dec.
<date> The date from 1 to 31 can be keyed by numeric function keys.
<year> The year can be adjusted by users.

f System Time

Sets the system time. Use tab key to switch between time elements.
The time format is <hour> <minute> <second>.

f SATA PortX/ M2_X

Shows the information of connected SATA/ M.2 devices.

Important

If the connected SATA device is not displayed, turn off computer and re-check SATA
cable and power cable connections of the device and motherboard.

f System Information

Shows detailed system information, including CPU type, BIOS version, and Memory
(read only).

f DMI Information

Shows system information, desktop Board Information and chassis Information. (Read
only).

Advanced

f PCI Subsystem Settings

Sets PCI, PCI express interface protocol and latency timer. Press Enter to enter the
sub-menu.

BIOS Setup

53

fPEG X - Max Link Speed [Auto]

Sets PCI Express protocol of PCIe x16 slots for matching different installed devices.
[Auto] This item will be configured automatically by BIOS.
[Gen1] Enables PCIe Gen1 support only.
[Gen2] Enables PCIe Gen2 support only.
[Gen3] Enables PCIe Gen3 support only.

fPCI Latency Timer [32]

Sets latency timer of PCI interface device.

[Options: 32, 64, 96, 128, 160, 192, 224, 248 PCI Bus clocks]

fAbove 4G memory/ Crypto Currency mining [Disabled]

Enables or disables 64-bit capable devices to be decoded in above 4G address

space. It is only available if the system supports 64-bit PCI decoding.
[Enabled] Allows you to utilize more than 4x GPUs.
[Disabled] Disables this function.

f ACPI Settings

Sets ACPI parameters of onboard power LED behaviors. Press Enter to enter the sub­menu.

fPower LED [Blinking]

Sets shining behaviors of the onboard Power LED.
[Dual Color] The power LED turns to another color to indicate the S3 state.
[Blinking] The power LED blinks to indicate the S3 state.

f Integrated Peripherals

Sets integrated peripherals' parameters, such as LAN, HDD, USB and audio. Press

Enter to enter the sub-menu.

fOnboard LAN Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard LAN controller.

fLAN Option ROM [Disabled]

Enables or disables the legacy network Boot Option ROM for detailed settings. This

item will appear when Onboard LAN Controller is enabled.
[Enabled] Enables the onboard LAN Boot ROM.
[Disabled] Disables the onboard LAN Boot ROM.

fNetwork Stack [Disabled]

Sets UEFI network stack for optimizing IPv4 / IPv6 function.
[Enabled] Enables UEFI network stack.
[Disabled] Disables UEFI network stack.

fIpv4 PXE Support [Enabled]

When Enabled, the system UEFI network stack will support Ipv4 protocol. This item

will appear when Network Stack is enabled.
[Enabled] Enables the Ipv4 PXE boot support.
[Disabled] Disables the Ipv4 PXE boot support.

BIOS Setup

54

fIpv6 PXE Support [Enabled]

When Enabled, the system UEFI network stack will support Ipv6 protocol. This item

will appear when Network Stack is enabled.
[Enabled] Enables the Ipv6 PXE boot support.
[Disabled] Disables the Ipv6 PXE boot support.

fSATA Mode [AHCI Mode]

Sets the operation mode of the onboard SATA controller.
[AHCI Mode] Specify the AHCI mode for SATA storage devices. AHCI

[RAID/Optane Mode] Enables RAID function for SATA storage devices and Optane

fM2_1/ M2_2-RST Pcie Storage Remapping [Disabled]

Enables or disables Intel Rapid Storage Technology for M.2 PCIe devices.

fM.2 Genie [Disabled]

Enables or disables M.2 storage to build RAID volume.

fSATAx Hot Plug [Disabled]

Allows user to enable or disable the SATA hot plug support.
[Enabled] Enables hot plug support for the SATA ports.
[Disabled] Disables hot plug support for the SATA ports.

fHD Audio Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard High Definition Audio controller.

fHPET [Enabled]

Enables or disables the HPET (High Precision Event Timers) support.

(Advanced Host Controller Interface) offers some advanced
features to enhance the speed and performance of SATA
storage device, such as Native Command Queuing (NCQ) and
hot-plugging.

function for NVMe or PCIe storage devices.

fIntel Serial I/O [Disabled]

Enables or disables the supported devices to transfer data with Intel serial

protocol.

f Integrated Graphics Configuration

Adjusts integrated graphics settings for optimum system. Press Enter to enter the
sub-menu.

fInitiate Graphic Adapter [PEG]

Selects a graphics device as the primary boot device.
[IGD] Integrated Graphics Display.
[PEG] PCI-Express Graphics Device.

fIntegrated Graphics Share Memory [64M]

Selects a fixed amount of system memory allocated to the onboard graphics. This

item will appear when IGD Multi-Monitor is enabled.

BIOS Setup

55

fIGD Multi-Monitor [Disabled]

Enables or disables the multi-screen output from integrated graphics and external

graphics card. This item appears when Initiate Graphic Adapter set to PEG.
[Enabled] Enables multi-screen function for both integrated and external

[Disabled] Disables this function.

f USB Configuration

Sets the onboard USB controller and device function. Press Enter to enter the sub­menu.

fUSB Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables all USB controller.

fXHCI Hand-off [Diasbled]

Enables or disables XHCI hand-off support for the operating system without XHCI

hand-off feature.

fLegacy USB Support [Enabled]

Sets Legacy USB function support.
[Auto] The system will automatically detect if any USB device is connected

[Enabled] Enable the USB support under legacy mode.
[Disabled] The USB devices will be unavailable under legacy mode.

f Power Management Setup

Sets system Power Management of EuP2013 and AC Power Loss behaviors. Press

Enter to enter the sub-menu.

fErP Ready [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system power consumption according to ErP regulation.
[Enabled] Optimize the system power consumption according to ErP

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fRestore after AC Power Loss [Power Off]

Sets the system behaviors while encountering the AC power loss.
[Power Off] Leaves the system in power off state after restoring AC power.
[Power On] Boot up the system after restoring AC power.
[Last State] Restores the system to the previous state (power on/ power off)

fSystem Power Fault Protection [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system to boot up when detecting abnormal voltage input.
[Enabled] Protect the system from unexpected power operation and remain

[Disabled] Disables this function.

graphics cards.

and enable the legacy USB support.

regulation. It will not support S4 & S5 wake up by USB, PCI and PCIe
devices.

before AC power loss.

the shut down status.

56

BIOS Setup

f Windows OS Configuration

Sets Windows OS detailed configuration and behaviors. Press Enter to enter the sub­menu.

fWindows 10 WHQL Support [Disabled]

Enables the supports for Windows 10 or disables for other operating systems.

Before enabling this item, make sure all installed devices & utilities (hardware &

software) should meet the Windows 10 requirements.
[Enabled] The system will switch to UEFI mode to meet the Windows

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fMSI Fast Boot [Disabled]

MSI Fast Boot is the fastest way to boot the system. It will disable more devices to

speed up system boot time which is faster than the boot time of Fast Boot.
[Enabled] Enables the MSI Fast Boot function to speed up booting time. And

[Disabled] Disables MSI Fast Boot.

equirement.

the following Fast Boot field will be disabled and fixed.

Important

When MSI Fast Boot is enabled, you can use MSI FAST BOOT application to enter BIOS
setup if needed. Please refer Entering BIOS Setup section for details.

fFast Boot [Enabled/ windows 10, Disabled/ windows7]

Enables or disables the fast boot feature for Windows 10. This item will only be

available when MSI Fast Boot is disabled.
[Enabled] Enables the Fast Boot configuration to accelerate system boot time.
[Disabled] Disables the Fast Boot configuration.

fInternal GOP Configuration

Manages the onboard Graphics Output Protocol (GOP). Press Enter to enter

the sub-menu. This sub-menu will appear when Windows 10 WHQL Support is

enabled.

fSecure Boot

Sets the Windows secure boot to prevent the unauthorized accessing. Press Enter

to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu will appear when Windows 10 WHQL

Support is enabled.

fSecure Boot Support [Disabled]

Enables or disables secure boot support.
[Enabled] Enables the secure boot function and allow you to set the secure

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fSecure Boot Mode [Standard]

Selects the secure boot mode. This item is to select how the secure boot keys be

loaded. This item appears when Secure Boot Support is enabled.
[Standard] The system will automatically load the secure keys from BIOS.
[Custom] Allows user to configure the secure boot settings and manually load

boot settings.

the secure keys.

BIOS Setup

57

fKey Management

Manages the secure boot keys. Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. This sub-

menu will appear when Secure Boot Mode sets to Custom.

f Wake Up Event Setup

Sets system wake up behaviors for different sleep modes. Press Enter to enter the
sub-menu.

fWake Up Event By [BIOS]

Selects the wake up event by BIOS or operating system.
[BIOS] Activates the following items, set wake up events of these items.
[OS] The wake up events will be defined by OS.

fResume By RTC Alarm [Disabled]

Disables or enables the system wake up by RTC Alarm.
[Enabled] Enables the system to boot up on a scheduled time/ date.
[Disabled] Disables this function.

fDate (of month) Alarm/ Time (hh:mm:ss) Alarm

Sets RTC alarm date/ Time. If Resume By RTC Alarm is set to [Enabled], the system

will automatically resume (boot up) on a specified date/hour/minute/second in

these fields (using the + and - keys to select the date & time settings).

fResume By PCI-E Device [Disabled]

Enables or disables the wake up function of installed PCI-E expansion cards,

integrated LAN controllers or USB devices which are supported by third party

integrated chips.
[Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from the power saving modes

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fResume By Onboard Intel LAN [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system wake up by Onboard Intel LAN.
[Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from the power saving modes

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fResume by USB Device [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system wake up by USB devices.
[Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from sleep state when activity of

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fResume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system wake up by PS/2 mouse.
[Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from S3/ S4/ S5 state when

[Disabled] Disables this function.

when activity or input signal of PCIe device is detected.

when activity or input signal of Intel LAN device is detected.

USB device is detected.

activity of PS/2 mouse is detected.

58

BIOS Setup

fResume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system wake up by PS/2 keyboard.
[Any Key] Enables the system to be awakened from S3/ S4/ S5 state when

[Hot Key] Enables the system to be awakened from S3/ S4/ S5 state when

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fHot Key [Ctrl+Space]

Selects a combination of keys as a hot key to wake the system. This item appears

when you set the Resume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Keyboard to Hot Key.

activity of any key on PS/2 keyboard is detected.

activity of hot key on PS/2 keyboard is detected.

Boot

Sets the sequence of system boot devices.

f Full Screen Logo Display [Enabled]

Enables or disables to show the full screen logo while system POST.
[Enabled] Shows the logo in full screen.

[Disabled] Shows the POST messages.

f GO2BIOS [Disabled]

Allows system to enter BIOS setup directly by pressing the Power button for 4 sec pon
bootup.

[Enabled] The system boots straight to the BIOS setup by long pressing the power

[Disabled] Disables this function.

f Bootup NumLock State [On]

Select the keyboard NumLock state upon bootup.

button about 4 seconds when the system is off.

f Info Block effect [Unlock]

Sets the state of Help information block.
[Unlock] Sliding effect.

[Lock] Fix the Help information block on the screen.

f AUTO CLR_CMOS [Disabled]

Enables or disables the CMOS data to be resumed automatically when the booting
process hang-up over 5 seconds.

f Boot Mode Select [LEGACY+UEFI]

Sets the system boot mode from legacy or UEFI architecture depending on OS
installation requirement. This item will become un-selectable and will be configured
automatically by BIOS when Windows 10 WHQL Support is enabled.

[UEFI] Enables UEFI BIOS boot mode support only.
[LEGACY+UEFI] Enables both Legacy BIOS boot mode and UEFI BIOS boot

mode.

f FIXED BOOT ORDER Priorities

Sets device priority for system boot.

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59

f Boot Option Priorities

These items are used to prioritize the installed boot devices.

Security

f Administrator Password

Sets administrator password for system security. User has full rights to change the
BIOS items with administrator password. After setting the administrator password, the
state of this item will show “Installed”.

f User Password

Sets User Password for system security. User has limited rights to change the BIOS
items with user password. This item will be available when administrator password is
set. After setting the user password, the state of this item will show “Installed”.

f Password Check [Setup]

Selects a condition that will request the password.
[Setup] A password will be requested for entering the BIOS Setup.

[Boot] A password will be requested for booting the system.

f Password Clear [Enabled]

Enables or disables the clear CMOS behavior to clear a set password.
[Enabled] The password will be erased after clear CMOS.

[Disabled] The password will always be kept.

Important

When selecting the Administrator / User Password items, a password box will appear
on the screen. Type the password then press Enter. The password typed now will
replace any previous set password from CMOS memory. You will be prompted to
confirm the password. You may also press Esc key to abort the selection.

To clear a set password, press Enter when you are prompted to enter a new password.
A message will confirm the password is being disabled. Once the password is disabled,
you can enter the setup and OS without authorization.

f Trusted Computing

Sets TPM (Trusted Platform Module) function.

fSecurity Device Support [Disabled]

Enables or disables the TPM function to build the endorsement key for accessing

the system.

fTPM Device Selection [dTPM]

Selects TPM device: PTT or dTPM.
[PTT] Select it for Firmware TPM (Intel Platform Trust technology)
[dTPM] Select it for Discrete TPM (Software TPM).

fDevice Select [Auto]

Sets the version of the TPM device. The version must be identical with the device.

Sets to Auto, system will detect the TPM model automatically.

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60

fTPM State [Enabled]

Enables or disables the TPM support. Reboot the system to apply the change.

fPending operation [None]

Sets the action of pending TPM operation.
[None] Discard the selelction
[TPM Clear] Clear all data secured by TPM.

f Chassis Intrusion Configuration

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

fChassis Intrusion [Disabled]

Enables or disables recording messages while the chassis is opened. This function

is ready for the chassis equips a chassis intrusion switch.
[Enabled] Once the chassis is opened, the system will record and issue a

[Reset] Clear the warning message. After clearing the message, please

[Disabled] Disables this funcion.

warning message.

return to Enabled or Disabled.

Save & Exit

f Discard Changes and Exit

Exit BIOS setup without saving any change.

f Save Changes and Reboot

Save all changes and reboot the system.

f Save Changes

Save current changes.

f Discard Changes

Discard all changes and restore to the previous values.

f Restore Defaults

Restore or load all default values.

f Boot Override

The installed bootable devices will appear on this menu, you can select one of them to
be the boot device.

BIOS Setup

61

OC

Important

y

Overclocking your PC manually is only recommended for advanced users.

y

Overclocking is not guaranteed, and if done improperly, it could void your warranty or

severely damage your hardware.

y

If you are unfamiliar with overclocking, we advise you to use GAME BOOST function

for easy overclocking.

f OC Explore Mode [Normal]

Enables or disables to show the normal or expert version of OC settings.
[Normal] Provides the regular OC settings in BIOS setup.

[Expert] Provides the advanced OC settings for OC expert to configure in BIOS

Note: We use * as the symbol for the OC settings of Expert mode.

setup.

f Beta Runner [Disabled]

Beta function or feature for DIY attempt only.

f CPU Ratio Apply Mode [All Core]*

Sets applied mode for CPU ratio. This item only appears when a CPU that supports
Turbo Boost is installed.

[All Core] Activate the CPU Ratio field. All CPU cores will run the same CPU ratio

[Per Core] Activate the X-Core Ratio Limit field. Sets each CPU core ratio

f CPU Ratio [Auto]

Sets the CPU ratio that is used to determine CPU clock speed. This item can only be
changed if the processor supports this function.

f 1/2/3/4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]*

Allows you to set the CPU ratios for different number of active cores. These items only
appear when a CPU that support this function is installed.

f Adjusted CPU Frequency

Shows the adjusted CPU frequency. Read-only.

BIOS Setup

62

that be set in CPU Ratio.

separately in X-Core Ratio Limit.

f CPU Ratio Mode [Dynamic Mode]*

Selects the CPU Ratio operating mode. This item will appear when you set the CPU
ratio manually.

[Fixed Mode] Fixes the CPU ratio.
[Dynamic Mode] CPU ratio will be changed dynamically according to the CPU

loading.

f CPU Ratio Offset When Running AVX [Auto]

Sets a offset value to lower the CPU core ratio. It could be helpful for heat dissipation
when running AVX instruction set. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting
automatically. This item appears when the installed CPU supports this function.

f Ring Ratio [Auto]

Sets the ring ratio. The valid value range depends on the installed CPU.

f Adjusted Ring Frequency

Shows the adjusted Ring frequency. Read-only.

f GT Ratio [Auto]

Sets the integrated graphics ratio. The valid value range depends on the installed
CPU.

f Adjusted GT Frequency

Shows the adjusted integrated graphics frequency. Read-only.

f Misc Setting*

Press Enter, + or - key to open or close the following 3 items related to CPU features.

fEIST [Enabled]*

®

Enables or disables the Enhanced Intel

SpeedStep Technology.

[Enabled] Enables the EIST to adjust CPU voltage and core frequency

dynamically. It can decrease average power consumption and
average heat production.

[Disabled] Disables EIST.

fIntel Turbo Boost [Enabled]*

®

Enables or disables the Intel

Turbo Boost. This item appears when the installed

CPU supports this function.

[Enabled] Enables this function to boost CPU performance automatically above

rated specifications when system request the highest performance
state.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fEnhanced Turbo [Auto]*

Enables or disables Enhanced Turbo function for all CPU cores to boost CPU

performance. This item appears when the installed CPU supports this function.

[Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS.

[Enabled] All CPU cores would be increased to maximum turbo ratio.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

BIOS Setup

63

f CPU Base Clock (MHz) [Default]

Sets the CPU Base clock. You may overclock the CPU by adjusting this value. Please
note that overclocking behavior and stability is not guaranteed. This item appears
when a CPU that support this function is installed.

f CPU Base Clock Apply Mode [Auto]*

Sets the applying mode for adjusted CPU base clock.
[Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS.

[Next Boot] CPU will run the adjusted CPU base clock at next boot.
[Immediate] CPU runs the adjusted CPU base clock immediately.

f Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) [Disabled]

X.M.P. (Extreme Memory Profile) is the overclocking technology by memory module.
Please enable XMP or select a profile of memory module for overclocking the memory.
This item will be available when the memory modules that support X.M.P. is installed.

f DRAM Reference Clock [Auto]*

Sets the DRAM reference clock. The valid value range depends on the installed CPU.
This item appears when a CPU that supports this adjustment is installed.

f DRAM Frequency [Auto]

Sets the DRAM frequency. Please note the overclocking behavior is not guaranteed.

f Adjusted DRAM Frequency

Shows the adjusted DRAM frequency. Read-only.

f Memory Try It ! [Disabled]

It can improve memory compatibility or performance by choosing optimized memory
preset.

f DRAM Timing Mode [Link]

Selects the memory timing mode.
[Link] Allows user to configure the DRAM timing for all memory channel.
[UnLink] Allows user to configure the DRAM timing for respective memory

f Advanced DRAM Configuration

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. User can set the memory timing for each/ all
memory channel. The system may become unstable or unbootable after changing
memory timing. If it occurs, please clear the CMOS data and restore the default
settings. (Refer to the Clear CMOS jumper/ button section to clear the CMOS data, and
enter the BIOS to load the default settings.)

f Memory Fast Boot [Auto] *

Enables or disables the initiation and training for memory every booting.
[Auto] The setting will be configured automatically by BIOS.

[Enabled] System will completely keep the archives of first intiation and training

[Disabled] The memory will be initialed and trained every booting.

BIOS Setup

64

channel.

for memory. So the memory will not be initialed and trained when
booting to accelerate the system booting time.

f DigitALL Power

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. Controls the digital powers related to CPU PWM.

fCPU Loadline Calibration Control [Auto]

The CPU voltage will decrease proportionally according to CPU loading. Higher

load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking performance,

but increase the temperature of the CPU and VRM. If set to Auto, BIOS will

configure this setting automatically.

fCPU Over Voltage Protection [Auto]

Sets the voltage limit for CPU over-voltage protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will

configure this setting automatically. Higher voltage provides less protection and

may damage the system.

fCPU Under Voltage Protection [Auto]

Sets the voltage limit for CPU under-voltage protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will

configure this setting automatically. Higher voltage provides less protection and

may damage the system.

fCPU Lite Load [Auto]

This item is used to reduce the CPU power and temperature under non-

overclocking and non-overvoltage conditions. Select higher mode if system is

unstable. Auto is the recommended.

fCPU Over Current Protection [Auto]

Sets the current limit for CPU over-current protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will

configure this setting automatically.

fCPU Switching Frequency [Auto]

Sets the PWM working speed to stabilize CPU Core voltage and minimize ripple

range. Increasing the PWM working speed will cause higher temperature of

MOSFET. So please make sure a cooling solution is well-prepared for MOSFET

before you increase the value. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting

automatically.

fCPU VRM Over Temperature Protection [Enabled]

Enables or disables the CPU VRM over temperature protection.

fCPU GT Loadline Calibration Control [Auto]

The voltage of the GPU embeeded in CPU will decrease proportionally according

to GPU loading. Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good

overclocking performance, but increase the temperature of the CPU and VRM.

fCPU GT Over Voltage Protection [Auto]

Sets the voltage limit for CPU GT over-voltage protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will

configure this setting automatically. Higher voltage provides less protection and

may damage the system.

fCPU GT Under Voltage Protection [Auto]

Sets the voltage limit for CPU GT under-voltage protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will

configure this setting automatically. Higher voltage provides less protection and

may damage the system.

BIOS Setup

65

fCPU GT Over Current Protection [Auto]

Sets the current limit for CPU GT over-current protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will

configure this setting automatically.

fCPU GT Switching Frequency [Auto]

Sets the PWM working speed to stabilize CPU GT voltage and minimize ripple

range. Increasing the PWM working speed will cause higher temperature of

MOSFET. So please make sure a cooling solution is well-prepared for MOSFET

before you increase the value. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting

automatically.

fCPU GT VRM Over Temperature Protection [Enabled]

Enables or disables the CPU GT VRM for over-temperature protection. The CPU GT

frequency may be throttled when VRM temperature over the specified value.

f CPU Core/ GT Voltage Mode [Auto]*

Sets the CPU Core/ GT voltage mode.
[Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS.

[Adaptive Mode] Sets the adaptive voltage automatically for optimizing the system

[Override Mode] Allows you to set the voltage manually.
[Offset Mode] Allows you to set the offset voltage and select the voltage offset

[Adaptive + Offset ] Sets the adaptive voltage automatically and allows you to set the

[Override + Offset ] Allows you to set the voltage and the offset voltage manually.

f CPU Voltages control [Auto]

These options allow you to set the voltages related to CPU. If set to Auto, BIOS will set
these voltages automatically or you can set it manually.

performance.

mode.

offset voltage.

f DRAM Voltages control [Auto]

These options allow you to set the voltages related to memory. If set to Auto, BIOS will
set these voltages automatically or you can set it manually.

f PCH Voltages control [Auto]

These options allow you to set the voltages related to PCH. If set to Auto, BIOS will set
these voltages automatically or you can set it manually.

f CPU Memory Changed Detect [Enabled]*

Enables or disables the system to issue a warning message during boot when the CPU
or memory has been replaced.

[Enabled] The system will issue a warning message during boot and then you have

[Disabled] Disables this function and keeps the current BIOS settings.

f OC Quick View Timer [3 Sec]*

Sets the duration of OC setting values showed on the screen. If set to Disabled, BIOS
will not show the variations of OC setting.

BIOS Setup

66

to load the default settings for new devices.

f CPU Specifications

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu displays the information of
installed CPU. You can also access this information menu at any time by pressing [F4].
Read only.

fCPU Technology Support

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu shows the key features of

installed CPU. Read only.

f MEMORY-Z

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu displays all the settings and
timings of installed memory. You can also access this information menu at any time by
pressing [F5].

fDIMMx Memory SPD

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu displays the information of

installed memory. Read only.

f CPU Features

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

fHyper-Threading [Enabled]

Intel Hyper-Threading technology treats the multi cores inside the processor as

multi logical processors that can execute instructions simultaneously. In this way,

the system performance is highly improved. This item appears when the installed

CPU supports this technology.
[Enable] Enables Intel Hyper-Threading technology.
[Disabled] Disables this item if the system does not support HT function.

fActive Processor Cores [All]

Allows you to select the number of active CPU cores.

fLimit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]

Enables or disables the extended CPUID value.
[Enabled] BIOS limits the maximum CPUID input value to circumvent boot

[Disabled] Use the actual maximum CPUID input value.

fIntel Virtualization Tech [Enabled]

Enables or disables Intel Virtualization technology.
[Enabled] Enables Intel Virtualization technology and allows a platform to run

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fIntel VT-D Tech [Disabled]

Enables or disables Intel VT-D (Intel Virtualization for Directed I/O) technology.

problems with older operating system that do not support the
processor with extended CPUID value.

multiple operating systems in independent partitions. The system
can function as multiple systems virtually.

BIOS Setup

67

fHardware Prefetcher [Enabled]

Enables or disables the hardware prefetcher (MLC Streamer prefetcher).
[Enabled] Allows the hardware prefetcher to automatically pre-fetch data

[Disabled] Disables the hardware prefetcher.

fAdjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]

Enables or disables the CPU hardware prefetcher (MLC Spatial prefetcher).
[Enabled] Enables adjacent cache line prefetching for reducing the cache

[Disabled] Enables the requested cache line only.

fCPU AES Instructions [Enabled]

Enables or disables the CPU AES (Advanced Encryption Standard-New

Instructions) support. This item appears when a CPU supports this function.

fIntel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]

Enables or disables the Intel adaptive thermal monitor function to protect the CPU

from overheating.
[Enabled] Throttles down the CPU core clock speed when the CPU is over the

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fIntel C-State [Auto]

Enables or disables the Intel C-state. C-state is a processor power management

technology defined by ACPI.
[Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS.
[Enabled] Detects the idle state of system and reduce CPU power consumption

[Disabled] Disable this function.

fC1E Support [Disabled]

Enables or disables the C1E function for power-saving in halt state. This item

appears when Intel C-State is enabled.
[Enabled] Enables C1E function to reduce the CPU frequency and voltage for

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fPackage C State limit [Auto]

This item allows you to select a CPU C-state level for power-saving when system is

idle. The options of C-state depend on the installed CPU. This item appears when

Intel C-State is enabled.

fCFG Lock [Enabled]

Lock or un-lock the MSR 0xE2[15], CFG lock bit.
[Enabled] Locks the CFG lock bit.
[Disabled] Un-locks the CFG lock bit.

and instructions into L2 cache from memory for tuning the CPU
performance.

latency time and tuning the performance to the specific application.

adaptive temperature.

accordingly.

power-saving in halt state.

68

BIOS Setup

fEIST [Enabled]

®

Enables or disables the Enhanced Intel

SpeedStep Technology. This item will

appear when OC Explore Mode is set to Normal.

[Enabled] Enables the EIST to adjust CPU voltage and core frequency

dynamically. It can decrease average power consumption and
average heat production.

[Disabled] Disables EIST.

fIntel Turbo Boost [Enabled]

Enables or disables the Intel

®

Turbo Boost. This item is for Normal mode and

appears when a CPU that support Turbo Boost is installed.

[Enabled] Enables this function to boost CPU performance automatically over

specification when system request the highest performance state.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

fLong Duration Power Limit (W) [Auto]

Sets the long duration TDP power limit for CPU in Turbo Boost mode.

fLong Duration Maintained (s) [Auto]

Sets the maintaining time for Long duration power Limit(W).

fShort Duration Power Limit (W) [Auto]

Sets the short duration TDP power limit for CPU in Turbo Boost mode.

fCPU Current Limit (A) [Auto]

Sets maximum current limit of CPU package in Turbo Boost mode. When the

current is over the specified value, the CPU will automatically reduce the core

frequency for reducing the current.

fFCLK Frequency [Auto]

Set FCLK Frequency for early power on. Lower FCLK frequency may help you to set

higher base clock frequency.

fDMI Link Speed [Auto]

Sets DMI speed.

fSW Guard Extensions (SGX) [Software Control]

Enables or disables Intel SGX.

BIOS Setup

69

M-FLASH

M-FLASH provides the way to update BIOS with a USB flash drive. Please down-load
the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI website, save the
BIOS file into your USB flash drive. And then follow the steps below to update BIOS.

1. Insert the USB flash drive that contains the update file into the computer.

2. Click on M-FLASH tab, a demand message will be prompted. Click on Yes to

reboot and enter the flash mode.

3. The system will enter the flash mode and a file selection menu will appear after
rebooting.

4. Select a BIOS file to perform the BIOS update process.

5. After the flashing process is 100% completed, the system will reboot

automatically.

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70

OC PROFILE

f Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6

Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6 management. Press <Enter> to enter the sub­menu.

fSet Name for Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6

Name the current overclocking profile.

fSave Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6

Save the current overclocking profile.

fLoad Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6

Load the current overclocking profile.

fClear Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6

Clear the current overclocking profile.

f OC Profile Load from ROM

Load OC profile from BIOS ROM.

f OC Profile Save to USB

Save OC profile to the USB flash drive. The USB flash drive should be FAT/ FAT32
format only.

f OC Profile Load from USB

Load OC profile from the USB flash drive. The USB flash drive should be FAT/ FAT32
format only.

BIOS Setup

71

HARDWARE MONITOR

Temperature
& Speed

Fan Manage

Setting
Buttons

Voltage
display

f Temperature & Speed

Shows the current CPU temperature, system temperature and fans' speeds.

f Fan Manage

 PWM - allows you to select the PWM mode for fan operation.
 DC - allows you to select the DC mode for fan operation.
 Fan step up/ down time - allows you to set the period of fan step up/ down.
 Smart Fan Mode field - allows you to drag the gradient points to configure

the fan target values for Smart Fan mode. Smart Fan can control the fan speed
automatically depending on the CPU temperature to keep it with in a specific range.
If the current CPU temperature reaches to the target value, the Smart Fan function
will be activated.

Important

y

The changing will achieve after you save the changes and reboot the system.

y

Make sure fans are working properly after switching the PWM/ DC mode.

f Settings Buttons

 All Full Speed - configures all fans to run at full operating speed.
 All Set Default - configures all fans to run at default operating speed.
 All Set Cancel - discards current changes and restores previous operating fan

speeds .

f Voltage display

Shows the current voltages of CPU, system and memory.

BIOS Setup

72

Software Description

Installing Windows® 10

1. Power on the computer.

2. Insert the Windows® 10 disc into your optical drive.

3. Press the Restart button on the computer case.

4. Press F11 key during the computer POST (Power-On Self Test) to get into Boot

Menu.

5. Select your optical drive from the Boot Menu.

6. Press any key when screen shows Press any key to boot from CD or DVD...

message.

7. Follow the instructions on the screen to install Windows

Installing Drivers

1. Start up your computer in Windows® 10.

®

2. Insert MSI

3. The installer will automatically appear and it will find and list all necessary

drivers.

4. Click Install button.

5. The software installation will then be in progress, after it has finished it will

prompt you to restart.

6. Click OK button to finish.

7. Restart your computer.

Driver Disc into your optical drive.

Installing Utilities

Before you install utilities, you must complete drivers installation.

1. Insert MSI

2. The installer will automatically appear.

3. Click Utilities tab.

4. Select the utilities you want to install.

5. Click Install button.

6. The utilities installation will then be in progress, after it has finished it will prompt

you to restart.

7. Click OK button to finish.

8. Restart your computer.

®

Driver Disc into your optical drive.

®

10.

Software Description

73

APP MANAGER

APP MANAGER is a handy management application for integration of MSI applications
and software interface. Providing easy shortcut entrance and real-time update
information of all the MSI software and applications.

APP list

Total Install/ Update
Motherboard
Information

y APP list - shows all the applications and software be supported by this motherboard.

An icon represents a entrance to the application rather than the application itself.

 Colorful icon - a colorful icon means that the application had have been installed
successfully and is available. Double click on desired icon to access the application.
A refresh icon

 Gray icon - the icon with gray painting means that the application is not available
and you have to install it if needed. Double click on the gray icon and the update
information will show. Click on the INSTALL button to install the application.

y Motherboard Information - shows the model name of motherboard.
y Total Install/ Update - click on this tab to update/ install all the applications.

shows to inform you that the application has a update version.

Important

Please note that, once you uninstall the APP MANAGER, all the MSI applications and
software will be uninstalled simultaneously.

Software Description

74

LIVE UPDATE 6

LIVE UPDATE 6 is an application for the MSI® system to scan and download the latest
drivers, BIOS and utilities. With LIVE UPDATE 6, you don’t need to search the drivers
on websites, and don’t need to know the models of motherboard and graphics cards.
LIVE UPDATE 6 will download the appropriate drivers automatically.

Download Options

Download List

Scan / Download / Total
Installer button

System Information

Last Scanned Date

There are Live Update, History, Setting and System Information tabs at the top. You
can click the tab to switch the control panel.

y Live Update - When you launch LIVE UPDATE 6, you will see the Live update tab at
first. This tab allows you to select files to download. You can also read the relevant
information by clicking the information icon

y History - shows the downloading history.

y Setting - allows you to specify the frequency that LIVE UPDATE 6 remind you to

update.

y System Information - displays the information of the system.

y FA Q - shows Frequently Asked Questions.

y Online Help - shows Online Help information.

on the right of the item listed.

Updating The System

This section describes how to update your system with LIVE UPDATE 6. Please follow
the steps below:

1

2

4

5

3

Software Description

75

1. Select the Live Update tab.

2. Choose Automatic scan, system will automatically scan all the items and search

for the latest update files. Or you can choose Manual scan and select the items you
wish to scan.

3. Click the Scan button at the bottom. It may take several moments to complete the

process.

4. When the download list appears, please select the items you intend to update.

5. Click Download button at the bottom.

6. When Save Path prompt, you can specify a download directory.

7. When downloading you will see the screen below. It may take several moments to

complete the process.

8. To install the applications, simply unpack the packages and install.

Total Installer

Total Installer is a convenient feature to simplify frequent installing procedure. To use
Total Installer:

2

3

1

1. Scan updates in Live Update tab.

2. Check the Select All check-box you intend to update.

3. Click the Total Installer button. LIVE UPDATE 6 will automatically install them.

4. When prompted, click OK to complete the Total Installer procedure

5. Reboot your system.

Software Description

76

COMMAND CENTER

COMMAND CENTER is an user-friendly software and exclusively developed by MSI,
helping users to adjust system settings and monitor status under OS. With the help
of COMMAND CENTER, making it possible to achieve easier and efficient monitoring
process and adjustments than that under BIOS. In addition, the COMMAND CENTER
can be a server for mobile remote control application.

CPU TemperatureSystem Information

Feature Menu

Feature Title

Feature

Control Panel

Previous
Feature

Option Buttons

Profile Buttons

y Default - load the default values for the current feature.

y Apply - apply your changes.

y Save - store values in the file with individual file extension.

y Load - load the values from the file.

Important

Every time you shut down the system, the configured setting will be restored to the
factory default. If you want to use the saved settings, you have to load it every time by
clicking the Load and Apply buttons.

Profile

Buttons

Next Feature

Page Indicator

Resize Corner

CPU Frequency

CPU Frequency control panel allows you to change
CPU Ratio and Base clock. You can see the current
frequency of each CPU core on the top of the panel.

Software Description

77

CPU Fan

CPU Fan control panel provides Smart mode and
Manual Mode. You can switch the control mode by

clicking the Smart Mode and Manual Mode buttons
on the top of the CPU Fan control panel.

y Manual Mode - allows you to manually control the
CPU fan speed by percentage.

y Smart Mode - a linear fan speed control feature.
The control panel contains 4 dots allows you to
drag and adjust the Smart Speed slopes. The fan
speed will be changed along these lines with CPU
temperature. The white dot will create strip chart in
real time.

y System Fan Button - to open the system fan control
panel in new window.

y Fan Tune Button - to automatically optimize the
smart fan setting.

CPU Voltage

CPU Voltage control panel allows you to control the
CPU voltage.

Manual Mode

Smart Mode

DRAM Frequency & DRAM Voltage

y DRAM Frequency - Shows the DRAM clock, ratio

and frequency.

y DRAM Voltage - Allows you to adjust the DRAM
voltage. The risky values are displayed in red.

IGP Frequency & GT Voltage

y IGP Frequency - Allows you to adjust the IGP ratio,

and shows the IGP clock, ratio and frequency.

y GT Voltage - Allows you to adjust the GT voltage.
The risky values are displayed in red.

Software Description

78

GAME BOOST

GAME BOOST provides a specified CPU frequency for
overclocking the CPU.

Option Buttons - Advanced

When click the Advanced button, The Voltage, Fan and DRAM icons will appear.

y Voltage - allows you to adjust advanced voltage values of CPU and chipset.

y

Fan - allows you to control the system fans speed.

y

DRAM - shows the current Advanced DRAM parameters, and allows you to change

the settings by selecting values from the drop-down menu on the right hand side.

y

Sensor - allows you to monitor your motherboard temperature and fan speed with
the virtual thermal image. You can drag and drop the fan icons to new locations. When
you press the Cooling button, all fans will run at full speed.

Option Buttons - Setting

When click the Setting button, The Record, Warning and Mobile Control icons will
appear.

y Record - allows you to monitor the status of voltage, fan speed and temperature in

real time.

 To filter record charts, select the check box next to the items.

 When click the Play button, the chart pane will start to show the recording chart.
If you want to check the value of a specific spot on chart, please move the orange
vertical line to the spot.

 History Record stores the data and names with date and time.

 To make a history record: Select items and click the Record button. When
finished, click the Record button again. The data will be stored in the drop-down
menu.

 To load a record, click the drop-down menu and select one from the list.

 To delete a record, select the record that you want to delete, and click the Trash

Can icon.

Software Description

79

y Warning - contains fields of voltage, fan speed and temperature for you to set the

threshold values. When system detects the status over your settings, a warning
message will pop-up.

y Mobile Control - is only available for the motherboard with the built-in WiFi module.
It allows you to enable/disable the COMMAND CENTER Remote Server. Please refer to
the instruction on the Mobile Control control panel.

y To start remote control: (optional)

1. Download and install MSI

®

COMMAND CENTER APP to your mobile device.

2. Enable COMMAND CENTER Remote Server on the Mobile Control panel.

3. Enable SoftAP Management.

4. Enter SSID and Password, and then click the Apply button.

5. Activate Wi-Fi

6. Run MSI

7. Find the IP address on the SoftAP Management Setting area, and enter the IP

address on your MSI

8. Press Refresh on the MSI

®

on your mobile device and connect to SoftAP with the SSID.

®

COMMAND CENTER APP on your mobile device.

®

COMMAND CENTER APP to link your system.

®

COMMAND CENTER APP to verify that monitoring and

OC functions are working properly.

Option Buttons - Information

When click the Information button, The Motherboard, CPU, Memory and HW monitor
icons will appear.

You can click the icons to open the related information.

Gadget Mode

COMMAND CENTER provides a gadget mode to
monitor the system status. You can switch between
gadget mode and full mode by clicking the arrow icon

on the top left.

y To arrange gadgets:

1. Click the Spanner icon

configuration panel will slide out.

2. Select the check box next to the items.

3. Click the Close button.

Software Description

80

on the Gadget mode, a

GAMING APP

GAMING APP is an application designed to quickly control your system for improving
gaming performance.

Remote Control Setting Button

Setting Button

Information Button

Cooler Boost

CPU Frequency

Control Mode Buttons

Gaming Function
Buttons

GPU Frequency

Peripheral Device
Function Buttons

y Setting Button - allows you to choose running GAMING APP when Windows starts or
let GAMING APP to overwrite the VGA fan control function.

y Information Button - shows the information of this application.

y CPU Frequency - shows the current CPU frequency.

y GPU Frequency - shows the current GPU frequency.

y Control Mode Buttons

 OC Mode - apply turbo frequency to CPU and OC frequency to GPU.
 Gaming Mode - automatically optimize the CPU ratio and the GPU clock.
 Silent Mode - reverts the CPU ratio and GPU clock to the default values.

y Gaming Function Buttons - allows you to use LED Effect, OSD, Eye Rest and Dragon
Eye functions.

y Peripheral Device Function Buttons - allows you to set the Gaming Hotkey, Mouse
Master and VR Ready functions.

y Remote Control Setting Button - available for the motherboards with built-in or

discrete WiFi module. It allows you to set up Name and Password to link the android
device and the motherboard. Please follow the steps below to complete the remote
control setting.

1. Download and install the MSI

®

GAMING APP APP to your android device.

2. Set up a set of Name and Password on the Remote Control Setting panel, and

then click the Apply button.

3. Connect your android device and motherboard to the same local area network.

4. Run MSI

5. Press the Remote Control Setting icon on the MSI

®

GAMING APP APP on your android device.

®

GAMING APP APP to find the

paired device Name you set in the Remote Control Setting panel.

6. Enter the Password you set in the Remote Control Setting panel.

7. Finally, you can use the MSI

®

GAMING APP APP to control your motherboard with

the android device.

Software Description

81

OSD Setting Panel

Use the OSD setting panel to specify information within on-screen display (OSD).

y Apply Button - applies above settings to OSD.

Eye Rest

Eye Rest allows you to optimize the display on your monitor.

y EyeRest - reduces blue-light of your LED backlit screen, in order to protect your
eyes.

y Gaming - automatically increase contrast ratio of your screen.

y Movie - automatically increase dynamic contrast ratio of your screen.

y Customize - allows you to adjust gamma, contrast and color balance for your screen.

y Default - loads the default settings.

Software Description

82

VR Ready

It will optimize the performance of your system to ensure everything is VR Ready.

VR ON/ OFF

Applications

y VR ON/ OFF -enables or disables VR settings.

y Applications - appears when you turn on the VR support. It allows you to close some

applications to optimize the system for better VR experience.

Software Description

83

Gaming Hotkey

Gaming Hotkey provides instant control of the system through user defined hotkeys.

Categories Toggle

Hotkey Manager

Current Hotkeys

Gaming Hotkey ON/OFF

y Gaming Hotkey ON/OFF - allows you to turn ON/OFF the Gaming Hotkey function.

y Categories Toggle - allows you to toggle over the Hotkey categories.

 Macro Genie - provides the keyboard and mouse macro record function and

allows you to define the hotkeys for the macro recorder.

1. Click on the Record button to start the keyboard and mouse macro recorder.

2. Click on the Stop button to stop the recorder.

3. Key-in a file name and set-up the parameter for the macro.

4. Finally, click on the Save button to save the recorded macro.
 Windows Keys - allows you to define hotkeys to replace Windows default

keyboard shortcuts.

 Login Keys - provides hotkey login function.
 MSI Smart Keys - allows you to define hotkeys for MSI Smart Keys.

y Hotkey Manager - allows you to create, edit and delete hotkeys.
y Current Hotkeys - shows all existing hotkeys.

Important

y

The Caps Lock, Num Lock, Scroll Lock, Window Home, Application and BackSpace

keys can not be used as Hotkeys.

y

Some key combinations are reserved for use by Microsoft Windows and can not be

assigned as a hotkey.

Software Description

84

Mouse Master

Mouse Master provides mouse macro function. You can also use it to change DPI of
your mouse.

Delay Time

Macro Hot Key

Mouse Action

Action List

Edit Buttons
Load Button

Save Button

DPI Setting
Default Button
DPI Hot Key

Test Area

Clear Button

y Delay Time - allows you to apply a delay time in mouse macro.
y Macro Hot Key - allows you to assign a hotkey from A to Z to activate the macro.
y Mouse Action - assigns mouse actions to the macro.

 New - captures the mouse coordinate and add to the macro.
 Left - add a left-click to the macro.
 Middle - add a middle-click to the macro.
 Left - add a left-click to the macro.

y Action List - shows the actions of the current macro.
y Edit Buttons - there 3 buttons for editing the macro.

 Run - activates the macro.
 Delete - removes the selected action from the macro.
 Clear - removes all actions from the macro.

y Load Button - allows you to load a macro.
y Save Button - allows you to save the macro to a file.
y DPI Setting - allows you select the mouse DPI from the drop-down menu.
y Default Button - reverts to the default DPI setting.
y DPI Hot Key - allows you to assign a hotkey from A to Z to activate the DPI setting.

Please note that you muse hold the hotkey to keep the DPI setting. When you release
the hotkey, the DPI setting will be reverted to default.

y Test Area - allows you to test the mouse movement.
y Clear Button - clears the test area.

Software Description

85

X-BOOST

The MSI X-BOOST allows you to select the system performance mode to meet your
current system environment or support faster storage access speed for your external
storage or memory cards.

Easy

In Easy page, you can select one system performance mode to meet the current
system environment.

Setting

Performance
mode

Performance
information

y Performance mode - moves over the mouse to any one of performance mode and

click on the ON button to enable it.

Important

The Customize mode is the default of system performance.

y Performance information - displays the system performance diagram of enabled

mode.

y Setting - enables or disables Run X-BOOST when windows starts.

Software Description

86

Advance

In Advance page, you can enable the USB SPEED UP, the STORAGE BOOST and VR
BOOST.

Setting

Device
information

y Device information - displays the information and current transfer rates/ access

speeds of USB/ storage devices.

y Setting - enables or disables Run X-BOOST when windows starts.
y USB SPEED UP - supports faster data transfer rates of the USB storage devices.
y STORAGE BOOST - supports faster access speed of storage device.
y VR BOOST - provides the optimized settings to boost the system for better VR

experience.

y OPTANE BOOST - supports faster access speed of Intel Optane memory (require a

reboot).

Important

y

Please note that you can only select one mode at a time from Easy or Advance page

as MSI X-BOOST function.

y

The improved transfer rate/ access speed will vary with the USB/ storage device.

Software Description

87

MYSTICLIGHT

MYSTICLIGHT is an application allows you to control LED lights of MSI products.

Main Screen

The Main screen is used to configure what devices need to be synchronized and LED
light effect options.

Sync Devices

ON/ OFF All LED

Sync Profile

Light Effect

Device Setting

Live Preview

y ON/OFF All LED - allows you to turn ON/ OFF all LED lights of sync devices.
y Sync Devices - allows you to select devices to sync by clicking the device's icon on

the Sync Device bar. The lighting effect of the sync devices will be controlled by the
main screen.

y Live Preview - gives you the full experience of your configuration’s look, feel while

you are editing it.

y Light Effect Options - allow you to customize lighting effect of the sync devices.
y Apply Button - applies lighting effect settings.
y Sync Profile - manages sets of sync device lighting effect settings.

 All Sync - all devices are synchronized to the main lighting effect settings.
 Individual - all devices lighting effects are applied to their respective settings.
 Profile01~03 - selected sync devices lighting effects are synchronized to the main

lighting effect settings.

y Save Button - saves sync device settings and lighting effect settings to the current

Sync Profile.

y Device Setting - switches to the other supported products.

Options

Apply Button
Save Button

Software Description

88

Motherboard Screen

The motherboard screen is used to configure the LED light effect of the motherboard.

Sync All

Return Button

ON/ OFF All LED

Profile

LED Area

Apply Button

Save Button

Motherboard
Name

Live Preview

Light Effect
Options

Note: The motherboard picture and name may vary according to different models.

y Return Button - returns to the main screen.
y ON/OFF All LED - allows you to turn ON/ OFF all LED lights of the motherboard.
y Sync All - allows you to synchronize all LED light effect of the motherboard.
y Motherboard Name - shows the name of the motherboard.
y Live Preview - gives you the full experience of your configuration’s look, feel while

you are editing it.

y Light Effect Options - allow you to customize lighting effect of the sync devices.
y Apply Button - applies lighting effect settings.
y Profile - manages sets of motherboard LED light effect settings.
y Save Button - saves sync device settings and lighting effect settings to the current

profile.

y LED Area - switches to the other LED area on the motherboard.

Software Description

89

MSI SMART TOOL

MSI SMART TOOL is a convenient tool that can help you to create your Windows
installation USB flash drive with USB 3.0 drivers, and it can also create a software
RAID.

Main menu

After installing and activating MSI SMART TOOL, it will display a main menu for you
to choose Win7 Smart Tool or Software RAID. Note that the Software RAID is only
available when your system equipped with at least 3 hard-disk drives (1 system disk
and 2 data disks).

WIN7 SMART TOOL

Before you can create your Windows installation USB flash drive, you’ll need to have
your Windows Installation DVD or ISO file, and also have a minimum of a 8GB USB
flash drive to create your installer. Be sure to backup files on the USB drive, this
process will erase it.

To create the Windows installation USB drive:

Step1. Choose source folder

y In the Source folder box, type the name and path of your Windows ISO file, or
click Browse button and select the file from the dialog box. (This option will copy all
Windows installation files and USB 3.0 drivers)

y If you already have the Windows Installation USB flash drive and just want to add
USB 3.0 drivers on it, you can choose Add USB drivers.

Step2. Choose Storage device

y Choose USB storage and select your USB flash drive in the drop-down list. In case
the USB flash drive is not listed, click the Refresh Drive button.

y If you want to install Windows on the PCIe M.2 RAID that was created by BIOS > M.2
Genie (please refer to BIOS Setup Section for details), check the M.2 Genie checkbox
to copy iRST drivers to the USB flash drive.

y Click Start.

Important

You can also create an installer ISO image file by selecting the ISO destination in
Step2, and then burn it onto the DVD. However, this method does not support M.2

Genie.

Software Description

90

SOFTWARE RAID

This utility allows you to create a software RAID in Windows system.

To create a software RAID:

1. Use checkboxs to select the disks you want included in your RAID.

2. Choose Speed Up or Backup for RAID type.

y Speed Up = RAID0
y Backup = RAID1

3. Click Start.

4. When prompt Finish!, click OK.

Important

Software RAID can't includ the system disk.

Software Description

91

RAMDISK

RAMDISK creates a virtual RAM drive using the available memory in your computer,
the performance of the RAMDISK is faster than an SSD and hard drive. RAMDISK
allows you to store any temporary information on it. Furthermore, using the RAMDISK
will extend your SSD’s life by sparing it from excessive reading and writing.

Creating a RAM Disk

When RAMDISK is started, it will create a default RAM disk. If you want to change
settings, refer to following instructions.

Setting

Backup

Management

Option

Apply
Button

y Setting - specify Letter, Name, Size and Format of the RAM disk.
y Option - select browser temporary files to save/load on the RAM disk. You can also

add software files to improve reading speed.

y Backup - specify backup and restore settings to prevent data loss. All files will be lost

each time the RAMDISK is stopped if you do not backup.

 Browse Button - set the path to the image file.
 Backup Right Now Button - manually backup files.
 Restore On Boot - check this box to have the image file loaded automatically when

RAMDISK starts.

 Auto Backup - check this box to backup automatically over a period of time.
y Apply Button - allows you to apply changes.
y Management - shows RAMDISK information and allows you to delete files.

Remove the RAM disk

Software Description

92

Dislpay
information
Delete files
in the RAM
disk.

Killer Control Center

The Killer Control Center software can be installed with the Killer LAN driver. Once
installed, the Killer Control Center icon would appear in system tray (bottom right of
the screen). Right click on the icon to open application window.

In case no icon appears in system tray, you may activate Killer Control Center manually
by double clicking the Killer Control Center icon on the desktop.

Overview

Apps

Wifi Analyzer

Settings

y Overview - displays network traffic on your system in the form of a speed-o-meter at

the top. And also list all applications/domains that are passing traffic.

y Apps - displays currently using network bandwidth applications.
y Wifi Analyzer - shows the Wireless network around you.
y Settings - allows you to setup bandwidth. And also shows your ethernet setting

information.

Configuring Bandwidth

Before using the Killer network for the first time, you should configure default Internet
upload and download speed.

To configure bandwidth:

1. Select the Settings page in Killer Control Center.

2. Enter a value into the Download Speed field.

3. Enter a value into the Upload Speed field.

4. Check OK to allow the Killer Control Center to manage the bandwidth.

Software Description

93

DRAGON EYE

DRAGON EYE allows you to watch game guides, tutorials, live match or tournament
stream while gaming. In game, you can use hotkeys to control/adjust the settings of
DRAGON EYE.

Size Settings

On / Off Switch

Video List

y On / Off Switch - enables or disables Dragon Eye during your gaming sessions.

Switch it on before you launch the game in order to watch video while playing.

y Video List - contains the videos you can select to watch. You can add videos or

streams to the list by pasting their URL into the input bar and hit+.

y Size Settings - allows you to select the size of the Dragon Eye video content

displayed on-screen when you’re playing a game. There are three options available:

 WQVGA (Small – 400×240)

 HVGAW (Medium – 640×360)

 WVGA (Large – 768×480)
y Position Settings - allows you to determine how you want to position your DRAGON

EYE windows on screen to avoid interfering your gaming experience.

y Help - If you want to watch the video tutorial for Dragon Eye or want to see if your

game is supported, press this button and the help window will be shown.

y Transparency Settings - allows you to set the transparency of your Dragon Eye video.

 0 = opaque | 100 = transparent.
y Hotkeys Information - In this information section you can find the hotkeys for Dragon

Eye. There are three hotkeys:

 Alt+F9 - switches mouse focus between video window and game itself. (Direct

interface to adjust progress bar, volume and other settings of video during the
game)

 Alt+F10 - turns on/off video window .

 Alt+F11 - adjusts transparency of video clip.

NOTE: To customize hotkey, simply select the hotkey icon and then press the keys

combination you want to use as a hotkey.

Position Settings
Help

Transparency Settings

Hotkeys Information

Software Description

94

Nahimic 2

Nahimic 2 is designed to offer the best audio experience it contains 6 audio effects, 3
microphone effects, HD Audio Recorder2 and Sound Tracker.

Installation and Update

Nahimic 2 is included in the audio driver. If you need to install it or update it, please
use the Driver Disc with your motherboard or download the driver from MSI’s official
website.

Audio Tab

From this tab, you can access all of Nahimic 2’s audio effects, audio profiles and
settings.

Device

properties

Display &
Volume

Mute

Profiles

Audio Effects

EQ Profile
Page

Reset Button
On/Off Button

y Display & Volume - displays the type of audio rendering device currently being used

as output, as well as its current volume.

 Mute - mutes the current audio output device.

 Device properties - allows you to change the format, sample rate, bit rate and

the channel gain of the current device (if these options are available for the current
device). Clicks on this button and a device properties panel will show.

y Profiles - allows you to adjust the 6 audio effects to your current listening

experience.

 Gaming - allows you to choose an audio profile to fit your gaming experience.

 Multimedia - allows you to choose an audio profile to fit your everyday experience.
y Audio Effects - allows you to separately control any of the 6 audio effects.

 Bass Boost - increases the energy in low frequencies up to +12 dB.

 Virtual Surround

 Gaming and Movies - virtualizes the multichannel audio stream and downmixes

it in order to retrieve a multichannel listening experience over your stereo
headphones or speakers.

 Music - expands the stereo for a wider sound stage.

 Reverb - increases the feeling of space by applying different types of reverbs

corresponding to different room sizes.

Software Description

95

 Treble Enhancer - Increases the energy in high frequencies up to +12 dB.

 Smart Loudness - maintains a constant volume for all elements of the audio

experience to making them all sound softer, balanced or louder.

 Voice Clarity - boosts the speech in movies, video games and incoming

communication from +0 through +12 dB (0 to 100%).

y Reset Button - restores the current profile to its default values.
y On/Off Button - allows you to turn on and off all Nahimic 2’s effects in one click.
y EQ Profile Page - by clicking the arrow button, you can also access a second page

that contains the x10 bands EQ and EQ profiles.

EQ Profiles

Custom EQ

Profile

x10 bands EQ

 EQ Profiles - allows you to choose between 6 EQ profiles to fit your audio

experience

 Custom EQ Profile - you can change the x10 bands of the Custom EQ profile so as

to make it fit your current needs.

 x10 bands EQ - x10 bands EQ, from 32Hz to 16KHz.

Microphone Tab

From this tab, you can access all of Nahimic 2’s microphone effects and settings.

Device

properties

Display &

Volume

Mute

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Microphone
Loopback

Microphone
Effects

y Display & Volume - displays the type of audio recording device currently being used

as input, as well as its current volume.

 Mute - mutes the current device.

 Device properties - allows you to boost the volume and modify the left/ right

balance of microphone. Clicks on this button and a device properties panel will
show.

y Microphone Loopback - turns the microphone loopback On/Off. In order to avoid any

feedback (Larsen effect).

y Microphone Effects - allows you to separately control any of the 3 microphone

effects.

 Voice Shaper - applies a filter to the voice.

 Voice Leveler - levels the volume of your voice in order to avoid any saturation

and maintains a constant and clear communication. Voice Leveler can be adjusted
with a 0 to 100% slider.

 Noise Reduction - removes the remaining sound that the Noise Gate has left on

top of your words and sentences.

HD Audio Recorder 2

From this tab, you can access the audio launchpad and HD Audio Recorder 2 settings.

Audio

Launchpad

effects

Pad

Properties

Control page

y Audio Launchpad effects - allows streamers to use prerecorded sounds during a

livestream. These sounds can also be heard by viewers. This tool will allow you to
create your true audio identity. That way, your livestreams will be more personal and
animated. The Audio Launchpad is one of the fresh new features of Nahimic 2. As it’s
a feature designed for broadcasters, we included it in the HD Audio Recorder 2 page.

 Pad Properties - every pad can be customized by clicking the properties button

that will appear in its bottom right when hovering over it with your mouse.
On the Pad Properties panel you can choose:

 The sound assigned to each pad.
 The keyboard hotkey assigned to each pad.
 The color assigned to each pad.

 Config 1, 2 & 3 - allows you to prepare 3 completely different configurations so as

to adapt the Launchpad to the content you are streaming. Each configuration has 6
customizable pads. The 3 configurations are independent, meaning Config 1 cannot
be used at the same time than Config 3.

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y Control Page - by clicking the arrow button, you can access the control page.

 Audio Launchpad ON/OFF - switches the Audio Launchpad on or off.

 HD Audio Recorder 2 - The HD Audio Recorder 2 is, by default, automatically

launched when a XSplit Gamecaster 2 recording session is detected. The launch of
the HD Audio Recorder 2 enables HD audio processing over an XSplit Gamecaster
2 recording without any need for adjustments. The HD Audio Recorder supports

XSplit Gamecaster 2.

 Pop-up message ON/OFF - switches the pop-up message on or off.

Sound Tracker

The Sound Tracker is an FPS oriented feature that provides a visual indication
localizing the source of the strongest sound while in a game. The Sound Tracker
captions the 5.1 and 7.1 sound streams processed by your audio system, and is
displayed in all applications and games using DirectX 9, 9c, 10 and 11. Please
remember Sound Tracker is only available if you are using an audio device that
supports Nahimic 2 effects.

 ON / OFF button and hotkey - switches the Sound Tracker on or off.

 Hotkey - use the CTRL + SHIFT + S to turn ON / OFF the Sound Tracker.

 7.1 Audio Test - launch a 7.1 audio sample allowing you to preview how the radar

will react in your game.

 Transparency - allows you to adjust the transparency of the Sound Tracker,

making it look more or less discrete.

 Scale - allows you to adjust the scale of the Sound Tracker, making it look bigger

or smaller.

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Sound Tracker
Effects

SteelSeries Engine 3

SteelSeries Engine 3 is a unified platform built to support all of SteelSeries products.
It can deploy your saved device settings automatically when switching between your
favorite games or applications.

After installation the SteelSeries Engine background processes will start and the
interface will open automatically.

My Gear

Device Cards

Library

Application

Configuration

y My Gear - all of your SteelSeries devices in one place.

 Device Cards - all of your SteelSeries devices are easily accessible from the My

Gear tab, regardless of type, connection status, or which applications they are
assigned to.

y Library - quickly set up your configurations to autolaunch with an application.

 Application Configuration - you can choose to have configurations deploy

automatically whenever you use a specific game or application. Add any number
of applications to your library and SteelSeries Engine 3 will seamlessly change the
configurations of your devices as you switch between them.

Configuration Windows

Configuration Windows are unique to their devices and each of them includes a
collapsible Configuration List Panel of all the configurations for that device. You
can create a new configuration by selecting the New button at the bottom of the
Configuration List Panel.

Configuration

Windows

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Configuring Your Devices

You can custom configurations for SteelSeries devices in their Configuration Windows.
The top left displays the name of the configuration you are viewing, the body features
widgets for customizing various functions of the device, and at the bottom are Save/
Revert buttons, a Live Preview toggle, and a button to open/close the collapsible
Configuration List Panel.

Widgets ToggleWidgets Widgets

Configuration Windows Toggle

Live Preview Revert/ Save Button

y Widgets - allow you to customize a certain aspect of your device.
y Widgets Toggle - allows you to toggle Widgets .
y Configuration Windows Toggle - allows you to toggle the Configuration Windows.
y Live Preview - gives you the full experience of your configuration’s look, feel, and

sound while you are editing it.

y Revert/ Save Button - configuration changes are not written to the database until

you select Save. This gives you freedom to experiment, knowing that you can select

Revert to undo changes.

Too l Ti p

When you click the question mark next to a feature name on the panel, a tooltip will
show, describing the particular function of that item.

Question Mark

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