MSI Z87 User Manual

Preface

Z87 MPOWER Z87 MPOWER SP
Motherboard
G52-78181X4
Preface

Copyright Notice

Trademarks

All trademarks in this manual are properties of their respective owners.
MSI® is registered trademark of Micro-Star Int’l Co.,Ltd.
NVIDIA® is registered trademark of NVIDIA Corporation.
ATI® is registered trademark of AMD Corporation.
AMD® is registered trademarks of AMD Corporation.
Intel® is registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
Windows® is registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
AMI® is registered trademark of American Megatrends Inc.
Award® is a registered trademark of Phoenix Technologies Ltd.
Sound Blaster® is registered trademark of Creative Technology Ltd.
Realtek® is registered trademark of Realtek Semiconductor Corporation.
JMicron® is registered trademark of JMicron Technology Corporation.
Netware® is registered trademark of Novell, Inc.
Lucid® is trademark of LucidLogix Technologies, Ltd.
VIA® is registered trademark of VIA Technologies, Inc.
ASMedia® is registered trademark of ASMedia Technology Inc.
iPad, iPhone, and iPod are trademarks of Apple Inc.
Qualcomm Atheros and Killer are trademarks of Qualcomm Atheros Inc.

Revision History

Revision Revision History Date V1.0 First release 2013/ 03 V1.1 Add Z87 MPOWER SP 2013/ 07
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Smartphone Application

MSI+ is a smart web gadget that works as a shopping navigator and provides specs comparison for IT buyers. With a simple tap of the smartphone, you'll e󰘲ciently locate your ideal products from a wide variety of choices and, if product details are required, you may easily download user manuals within minutes. Better yet, the power calculator provides accurate estimates of power unit capacity for DIY users.

Technical Support

If a problem arises with your system and no solution can be obtained from the user’s manual, please contact your place of purchase or local distributor. Alternatively, please try the following help resources for further guidance.
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Visit the MSI website for technical guide, BIOS updates, driver updates, and other information:
http://www.msi.com/service/download/
Contact our technical sta󰘯 at:
http://support.msi.com
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Safety Instructions

Always read the safety instructions carefully.
Keep this User’s Manual for future reference.
Keep this equipment away from humidity.
Lay this equipment on a reliable 󰘱at surface before setting it up.
The openings on the enclosure are for air convection hence protects the equipment
from overheating. DO NOT COVER THE OPENINGS. Make sure the voltage of the power source is at 110/220V before connecting the
equipment to the power inlet. Place the power cord such a way that people can not step on it. Do not place
anything over the power cord. Always Unplug the Power Cord before inserting any add-on card or module.
All cautions and warnings on the equipment should be noted.
Never pour any liquid into the opening that can cause damage or cause electrical
shock. If any of the following situations arises, get the equipment checked by service
personnel:
The power cord or plug is damaged.
Liquid has penetrated into the equipment.
The equipment has been exposed to moisture.
The equipment does not work well or you can not get it work according to
User’s Manual. The equipment has been dropped and damaged.
The equipment has obvious sign of breakage.
DO NOT LEAVE THIS EQUIPMENT IN AN ENVIRONMENT ABOVE 60oC (140oF),
IT MAY DAMAGE THE EQUIPMENT.
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FCC-B Radio Frequency Interference Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment o󰘯 and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the measures listed below.
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit di󰘯erent from that to which
the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.
◯ Notice 1 The changes or modi󰘰cations not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. Notice 2 Shielded interface cables and A.C. power cord, if any, must be used in order to comply
with the emission limits. VOIR LA NOTICE D’INSTALLATION AVANT DE RACCORDER AU RESEAU.
Micro-Star International
MS-7818
Preface
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
this device may not cause harmful interference, and
1)
this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
2)
cause undesired operation.

CE Conformity

Hereby, Micro-Star International CO., LTD declares that this device is in compliance with the essential safety requirements and other relevant provisions set out in the European Directive.
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Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment and its antenna should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20 cm between the radiator and your body. This equipment and its antenna must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

European Community Compliance Statement

The equipment complies with the RF Exposure Requirement 1999/519/EC, Council Recommendation of 12 July 1999 on the limitation of exposure of the general public to electromagnetic 󰘰elds (0–300GHz). This wireless device complies with the R&TTE Directive.

FCC Bluetooth Wireless Compliance

The antenna used with this transmitter must not be colocated or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter subject to the conditions of the FCC Grant.

Bluetooth Industry Canada Statement

This Class B device meets all requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la Class B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Taiwan Wireless Statements

無線設備警告聲明 經型式認證合格之低功率射頻電機,非經許可,公司、商號或使用者均不得擅自變更頻
率、加大功率或變更原設計之特性及功能。 低功率射頻電機之使用不得影響飛航安全及干擾合法通信;經發現有干擾現象時,應立
即停用,並改善至無干擾時方得繼續使用。前項合法通信,指依電信法規定作業之無線 電通信。低功率射頻電機須忍受合法通信或工業、科學及醫療用電波輻射性電機設備之 干擾。
工作頻率2.412GHz~2.462GHz該頻段限於室內使用。 警告使用者:這是甲類資訊產品,在居住的環境中使用時,可能會造成無線電干擾,在
這種情況下,使用者會被要求採取某些適當的對策。

Japan VCCI Class B Statement

クラス B 情報技術装置 この装置は、情報技術装置等電波障害自主規制協議会(VCCI)の基準に基づくクラ
スB情報技術装置です。この装置が家庭内でラジオやテレビジョン受信機に近接して 使われると、受信障害を引き起こすことがあります。取扱説明書にしたがって正しい 取り扱いをしてください。
この製品は、周波数帯域 2.412GHz~2.484GHz で動作しているときは、屋内において のみ使用可能です。

Korea Warning Statements

당해 무선설비는 운용중 전파혼신 가능성이 있음
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Battery Information

European Union: Batteries, battery packs, and accumulators should not be disposed of
as unsorted household waste. Please use the public collection system to return, recycle, or treat them in compliance with the local regulations.
Taiwan: For better environmental protection, waste batteries should be collected
separately for recycling or special disposal.
廢電池請回收
California, USA: The button cell battery may contain perchlorate material and requires
special handling when recycled or disposed of in California. For further information please visit: http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate/
CAUTION: There is a risk of explosion, if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.

Chemical Substances Information

In compliance with chemical substances regulations, such as the EU REACH Regulation (Regulation EC No. 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and the Council), MSI provides the information of chemical substances in products at:
http://www.msi.com/html/popup/csr/evmtprtt_pcm.html
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vii Preface

WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Statement

Preface
ENGLISH
To protect the global environment and as an environmentalist, MSI must remind you that...
Under the European Union (“EU”) Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, Directive 2002/96/EC, which takes e󰘯ect on August 13, 2005, products of “electrical and electronic equipment” cannot be discarded as municipal wastes anymore, and manufacturers of covered electronic equipment will be obligated to take back such products at the end of their useful life. MSI will comply with the product take back requirements at the end of life of MSI-branded products that are sold into the EU. You can return these products to local collection points.
DEUTSCH
Hinweis von MSI zur Erhaltung und Schutz unserer Umwelt Gemäß der Richtlinie 2002/96/EG über Elektro- und Elektronik-Altgeräte dürfen
Elektro- und Elektronik-Altgeräte nicht mehr als kommunale Abfälle entsorgt werden. MSI hat europaweit verschiedene Sammel- und Recyclingunternehmen beauftragt, die in die Europäische Union in Verkehr gebrachten Produkte, am Ende seines Lebenszyklus zurückzunehmen. Bitte entsorgen Sie dieses Produkt zum gegebenen Zeitpunkt ausschliesslich an einer lokalen Altgerätesammelstelle in Ihrer Nähe.
FRANÇAIS
En tant qu’écologiste et a󰘰n de protéger l’environnement, MSI tient à rappeler ceci... Au sujet de la directive européenne (EU) relative aux déchets des équipement
électriques et électroniques, directive 2002/96/EC, prenant e󰘯et le 13 août 2005, que les produits électriques et électroniques ne peuvent être déposés dans les décharges ou tout simplement mis à la poubelle. Les fabricants de ces équipements seront obligés de récupérer certains produits en 󰘰n de vie. MSI prendra en compte cette exigence relative au retour des produits en 󰘰n de vie au sein de la communauté européenne. Par conséquent vous pouvez retourner localement ces matériels dans les points de collecte.
РУССКИЙ
Компания MSI предпринимает активные действия по защите окружающей среды,
поэтому напоминаем вам, что....
В соответствии с директивой Европейского Союза (ЕС) по предотвращению загрязнения окружающей среды использованным электрическим и электронным оборудованием (директива WEEE 2002/96/EC), вступающей в силу 13 августа 2005 года, изделия, относящиеся к электрическому и электронному оборудованию, не могут рассматриваться как бытовой мусор, поэтому производители вышеперечисленного электронного оборудования обязаны принимать его для переработки по окончании срока службы. MSI обязуется соблюдать требования по приему продукции, проданной под маркой MSI на территории EC, в переработку по окончании срока службы. Вы можете вернуть эти изделия в специализированные пункты приема.
viiiPreface
ESPAÑOL
MSI como empresa comprometida con la protección del medio ambiente, recomienda: Bajo la directiva 2002/96/EC de la Unión Europea en materia de desechos y/o
equipos electrónicos, con fecha de rigor desde el 13 de agosto de 2005, los productos clasi󰘰cados como “eléctricos y equipos electrónicos” no pueden ser depositados en los contenedores habituales de su municipio, los fabricantes de equipos electrónicos, están obligados a hacerse cargo de dichos productos al termino de su período de vida. MSI estará comprometido con los términos de recogida de sus productos vendidos en la Unión Europea al 󰘰nal de su periodo de vida. Usted debe depositar estos productos en el punto limpio establecido por el ayuntamiento de su localidad o entregar a una empresa autorizada para la recogida de estos residuos.
NEDERLANDS
Om het milieu te beschermen, wil MSI u eraan herinneren dat…. De richtlijn van de Europese Unie (EU) met betrekking tot Vervuiling van Electrische
en Electronische producten (2002/96/EC), die op 13 Augustus 2005 in zal gaan kunnen niet meer beschouwd worden als vervuiling. Fabrikanten van dit soort producten worden verplicht om producten retour te nemen aan het eind van hun levenscyclus. MSI zal overeenkomstig de richtlijn handelen voor de producten die de merknaam MSI dragen en verkocht zijn in de EU. Deze goederen kunnen geretourneerd worden op lokale inzamelingspunten.
SRPSKI
Da bi zaštitili prirodnu sredinu, i kao preduzeće koje vodi računa o okolini i prirodnoj sredini, MSI mora da vas podesti da…
Po Direktivi Evropske unije (“EU”) o odbačenoj ekektronskoj i električnoj opremi, Direktiva 2002/96/EC, koja stupa na snagu od 13. Avgusta 2005, proizvodi koji spadaju pod “elektronsku i električnu opremu” ne mogu više biti odbačeni kao običan otpad i proizvođači ove opreme biće prinuđeni da uzmu natrag ove proizvode na kraju njihovog uobičajenog veka trajanja. MSI će poštovati zahtev o preuzimanju ovakvih proizvoda kojima je istekao vek trajanja, koji imaju MSI oznaku i koji su prodati u EU. Ove proizvode možete vratiti na lokalnim mestima za prikupljanje.
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POLSKI
Aby chronić nasze środowisko naturalne oraz jako 󰘰rma dbająca o ekologię, MSI przypomina, że...
Zgodnie z Dyrektywą Unii Europejskiej (“UE”) dotyczącą odpadów produktów elektrycznych i elektronicznych (Dyrektywa 2002/96/EC), która wchodzi w życie 13 sierpnia 2005, tzw. “produkty oraz wyposażenie elektryczne i elektroniczne “ nie mogą być traktowane jako śmieci komunalne, tak więc producenci tych produktów będą zobowiązani do odbierania ich w momencie gdy produkt jest wycofywany z użycia. MSI wypełni wymagania UE, przyjmując produkty (sprzedawane na terenie Unii Europejskiej) wycofywane z użycia. Produkty MSI będzie można zwracać w wyznaczonych punktach zbiorczych.
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TÜRKÇE
Çevreci özelliğiyle bilinen MSI dünyada çevreyi korumak için hatırlatır: Avrupa Birliği (AB) Kararnamesi Elektrik ve Elektronik Malzeme Atığı, 2002/96/EC
Kararnamesi altında 13 Ağustos 2005 tarihinden itibaren geçerli olmak üzere, elektrikli ve elektronik malzemeler diğer atıklar gibi çöpe atılamayacak ve bu elektonik cihazların üreticileri, cihazların kullanım süreleri bittikten sonra ürünleri geri toplamakla yükümlü olacaktır. Avrupa Birliği’ne satılan MSI markalı ürünlerin kullanım süreleri bittiğinde MSI ürünlerin geri alınması isteği ile işbirliği içerisinde olacaktır. Ürünlerinizi yerel toplama noktalarına bırakabilirsiniz.
ČESKY
Záleží nám na ochraně životního prostředí - společnost MSI upozorňuje... Podle směrnice Evropské unie (“EU”) o likvidaci elektrických a elektronických výrobků
2002/96/EC platné od 13. srpna 2005 je zakázáno likvidovat “elektrické a elektronické výrobky” v běžném komunálním odpadu a výrobci elektronických výrobků, na které se tato směrnice vztahuje, budou povinni odebírat takové výrobky zpět po skončení jejich životnosti. Společnost MSI splní požadavky na odebírání výrobků značky MSI, prodávaných v zemích EU, po skončení jejich životnosti. Tyto výrobky můžete odevzdat v místních sběrnách.
MAGYAR
Annak érdekében, hogy környezetünket megvédjük, illetve környezetvédőként fellépve az MSI emlékezteti Önt, hogy ...
Az Európai Unió („EU”) 2005. augusztus 13-án hatályba lépő, az elektromos és elektronikus berendezések hulladékairól szóló 2002/96/EK irányelve szerint az elektromos és elektronikus berendezések többé nem kezelhetőek lakossági hulladékként, és az ilyen elektronikus berendezések gyártói kötelessé válnak az ilyen termékek visszavételére azok hasznos élettartama végén. Az MSI betartja a termékvisszavétellel kapcsolatos követelményeket az MSI márkanév alatt az EU-n belül értékesített termékek esetében, azok élettartamának végén. Az ilyen termékeket a legközelebbi gyűjtőhelyre viheti.
ITALIANO
Per proteggere l’ambiente, MSI, da sempre amica della natura, ti ricorda che…. In base alla Direttiva dell’Unione Europea (EU) sullo Smaltimento dei Materiali Elettrici
ed Elettronici, Direttiva 2002/96/EC in vigore dal 13 Agosto 2005, prodotti appartenenti alla categoria dei Materiali Elettrici ed Elettronici non possono più essere eliminati come ri󰘰uti municipali: i produttori di detti materiali saranno obbligati a ritirare ogni prodotto alla 󰘰ne del suo ciclo di vita. MSI si adeguerà a tale Direttiva ritirando tutti i prodotti marchiati MSI che sono stati venduti all’interno dell’Unione Europea alla 󰘰ne del loro ciclo di vita. È possibile portare i prodotti nel più vicino punto di raccolta
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CONTENTS
Preface ............................................................................................................i
Copyright Notice .......................................................................................................ii
Trademarks ..............................................................................................................ii
Revision History .......................................................................................................ii
Smartphone Application ..........................................................................................iii
Technical Support ...................................................................................................iii
Safety Instructions ...................................................................................................iv
FCC-B Radio Frequency Interference Statement ................................................... v
CE Conformity ......................................................................................................... v
Radiation Exposure Statement ...............................................................................vi
European Community Compliance Statement ........................................................vi
FCC Bluetooth Wireless Compliance ......................................................................vi
Bluetooth Industry Canada Statement ....................................................................vi
Taiwan Wireless Statements ...................................................................................vi
Japan VCCI Class B Statement ..............................................................................vi
Korea Warning Statements .....................................................................................vi
Battery Information .................................................................................................vii
Chemical Substances Information .........................................................................vii
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Statement ...........................viii
Chapter 1 Getting Started............................................................................1-1
Packing Contents .................................................................................................1-2
Optional Accessories ...........................................................................................1-2
Assembly Precautions ..........................................................................................1-3
Motherboard Speci󰘰cations ..................................................................................1-4
Connectors Quick Guide ......................................................................................1-7
Back Panel Quick Guide ......................................................................................1-9
CPU (Central Processing Unit) ..........................................................................1-11
Introduction to the LGA 1150 CPU ..............................................................1-11
CPU & Heatsink Installation .........................................................................1-12
Memory ..............................................................................................................1-15
Dual-Channel mode Population Rule ..........................................................1-15
Mounting Screw Holes .......................................................................................1-16
Power Supply .....................................................................................................1-17
JPWR1~3: ATX Power Connectors .............................................................1-17
Expansion Slots .................................................................................................1-18
PCI_E1~E7: PCIe Expansion Slot ...............................................................1-18
PCIe x16 Slots Bandwidth Table ................................................................1-18
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xi Preface
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Video/ Graphics Cards ......................................................................................1-19
Single Video Card Installation ......................................................................1-19
AMD CrossFire™ (Multi-GPU) Technology .................................................1-20
NVIDIA® SLI Technology ............................................................................. 1-22
Internal Connectors ............................................................................................ 1-24
SATA1~8: SATA Connector .......................................................................1-24
CPUFAN1~2,SYSFAN1~3: Fan Power Connectors ....................................1-25
JFP1, JFP2: System Panel Connectors ......................................................1-26
JUSB1~3: USB 2.0 Expansion Connector ................................................... 1-27
JUSB4: USB 3.0 Expansion Connector ....................................................... 1-28
JAUD1: Front Panel Audio Connector .........................................................1-29
JTPM1: TPM Module Connector .................................................................1-30
Voltage Checkpoints ..........................................................................................1-31
FV1: V-Check Connectors ...........................................................................1-31
V-Check Spots ............................................................................................. 1-32
Buttons ...............................................................................................................1-33
OC1: OC Genie Button ...............................................................................1-33
POWER1: Power Button ..............................................................................1-34
FASTB1: GO2BIOS Button ..........................................................................1-35
Jumper ...............................................................................................................1-36
JBAT1: Clear CMOS Jumper .......................................................................1-36
Switches ............................................................................................................. 1-37
MULTI BIOS SWITCH: Multi-BIOS Switch ..................................................1-37
OC_SWITCH1: OC Genie Mode Switch ...................................................... 1-38
LED Status Indicators ........................................................................................1-39
BIOS LEDs ..................................................................................................1-39
HDD_LED ....................................................................................................1-39
OC Switch LEDs ..........................................................................................1-39
Debug Code LED Table ...............................................................................1-40
Drivers and Utilities ............................................................................................1-41
Total Installer ...............................................................................................1-41
Chapter 2 Quick Installation ........................................................................2-1
CPU Installation ...................................................................................................2-2
Memory Installation ..............................................................................................2-4
Motherboard Installation .......................................................................................2-5
Power Connectors Installation .............................................................................2-7
SATA HDD Installation ......................................................................................... 2-9
mSATA SSD Installation ....................................................................................2-10
Front Panel Connector Installation ..................................................................... 2-11
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JFP1 Connecotr Installation .........................................................................2-11
Front Panel Audio Connector Installation ....................................................2-11
Peripheral Connector Installation .......................................................................2-12
USB2.0 Connector Installation .....................................................................2-12
USB3.0 Connector Installation .....................................................................2-12
Graphics Card Installation .................................................................................. 2-13
Chapter 3 BIOS Setup .................................................................................3-1
Entering Setup .....................................................................................................3-2
Entering BIOS Setup .....................................................................................3-2
Overview ..............................................................................................................3-3
Operation .............................................................................................................3-5
SETTINGS ...........................................................................................................3-6
System Status ................................................................................................3-6
Advanced ....................................................................................................... 3-7
Boot .............................................................................................................3-13
Security ........................................................................................................ 3-14
Save & Exit ..................................................................................................3-15
OC ...................................................................................................................... 3-16
M-FLASH ...........................................................................................................3-25
OC PROFILE .....................................................................................................3-26
HARDWARE MONITOR ....................................................................................3-27
Appendix A Realtek Audio .......................................................................... A-1
Software Con󰘰guration .........................................................................................A-2
Software panel overview ................................................................................A-2
Auto popup dialog ..........................................................................................A-3
Hardware Default Setting .....................................................................................A-4
Appendix B Intel RAID ................................................................................ B-1
Introduction ..........................................................................................................B-2
Using Intel Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM............................................B-3
Degraded RAID Array ........................................................................................B-10
System Acceleration ..........................................................................................B-12
RST Synchronization .........................................................................................B-14
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xiii Preface
Chapter 1

Getting Started

Thank you for choosing the Z87 MPOWER/ Z87 MPOWER SP Series (MS­7818 v1.X) ATX motherboard. The Z87 MPOWER/ Z87 MPOWER SP Series motherboards are based on Intel® Z87 chipset for optimal system e󰘲ciency. Designed to 󰘰t the advanced Intel® LGA1150 processor, the Z87 MPOWER/ Z87 MPOWER SP Series motherboards deliver a high performance and professional desktop platform solution.

Packing Contents

Chapter 1

Optional Accessories

USB 3.0 Bracket
Motherboard
SATA Cable
SLI Cable
Drivers & Utilities
Disc
Software & Application
User Guide
M-Connector
V-Check Cable x4
Motherboard
User Guide
Antenna x2
Network Driver &
Utilities Disc
I/O Shield
mPCIe card with
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
module
* These pictures are for reference only and may vary without notice. * The packing contents may vary according to the model you purchased. * If you need to purchase the optional accessories or request part numbers, please
visit the MSI website at http://www.msi.com/index.php or consult the dealer.
1-2Getting Started

Assembly Precautions

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. Always turn o󰘯 the power supply and unplug the power cord from the power outlet
■ before installing or removing any computer component. Ensure that all components are securely connected. Loose connections may cause
■ the computer to not recognize a component or fail to start. Hold the motherboard by the edges to avoid touching sensitive components.
■ 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. Store the motherboard in an electrostatic shielding container or on an antistatic pad
■ whenever the motherboard is not installed. Before turning on the computer, ensure that there are no loose screws or metal
■ components on the motherboard or anywhere within the computer case. Do not use the computer in a high-temperature environment.
■ Do not boot the computer before installation is completed. This could cause
■ permanent damage to the components as well as injury to the user. If you need help during any installation step, please consult a certi󰘰ed computer
■ technician.
Important
A screwdriver (not included) may be required for computer assembly.
Chapter 1
1-3 Getting Started
Motherboard Speci󰘰cations
CPU Support
Chipset Intel® Z87 Express Chipset■ Memory
Support
Chapter 1
Expansion Slots
Onboard Graphics
Multi-GPU Support
Storage Intel Z87 Express Chipset
USB Intel Z87 Express Chipset
Audio Realtek® ALC1150 Codec
LAN 1x Killer E2205 Gigabit LAN controller*
4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 / Pentium® /
■ Celeron® processors for LGA 1150 socket
4x DDR3 memory slots supporting up to 32GB
■ Supports DDR3 3000(OC)/ 2800(OC)/ 2666(OC)/ 2600(OC)/
■ 2400(OC)/ 2200(OC)/ 2133(OC)/ 2000(OC)/ 1866(OC)/ 1600/ 1333/ 1066 MHz Dual channel memory architecture
■ Supports non-ECC, un-bu󰘯ered memory
■ Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Pro󰘰le (XMP)
■ 3x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots
The operating mode will be x16/ x0/ x0, x8/ x8/ x0, or x8/ x4/ x4.
­Please always install expansion card into the PCI_E2 “First”.
4x PCIe 2.0 x1 slots
■ 2x HDMI® ports, supporting the maximum resolutions of
■ 4096x2160@24Hz, 24bpp/ 2560x1600@60Hz, 24bpp/ 1920x1080@60Hz, 36bpp 1x DisplayPort, supporting the maximum resolutions of
■ 4096x2160@24Hz, 24bpp/ 3840x2160@60Hz, 24bpp
Supports 3-Way AMD CrossFireTM Technology*
■ Supports 2-Way NVIDIA® SLITM Technology
* Supports Windows 7 and Windows 8.
1x mSATA 6Gb/s port*
­6x SATA 6Gb/s ports (SATA1~6)*
­Supports RAID 0, RAID1, RAID 5 and RAID 10
­Supports Intel Smart Response Technology, Intel® Rapid Start
­Technology and Intel Smart Connect Technology**
ASMedia ASM1061 Chipset
■ 2x SATA 6Gb/s ports (SATA7~8)
-
* The SATA6 port will be unavailable when install a SSD in the mSATA port. ** Supports Intel Core processors on Windows 7 and Windows 8.
■ 4x USB 3.0 ports (2 ports on the back panel, 2 ports available
­through the internal USB connectors) 8x USB 2.0 ports (2 ports on the back panel, 6 ports available
­through the internal USB connectors**)
ASMedia ASM1074 Chipset
■ 4x USB 3.0 ports on the back panel
-
** internal JUSB1 connector supports MSI Super Charger
7.1-Channel High De󰘰nition Audio
­Supports S/PDIF output
-
* The Killer Network Manager is only available for Windows 7 and Windows 8 currently. The
supported drivers for other operating systems would be available on the website if provided by vendor.
1-4Getting Started
Wireless LAN
Bluetooth Wi-Fi/Bluetooth expansion module with Intel Centrion Wireless-N
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth expansion module with Intel® Centrion Wireless-N
■ 2230 chip.**
Supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual band up to 300 Mbps speed.**
­Supports Intel® Wireless Display (WiDi)**
-
** For Z87 MPOWER only.
■ 2230 chip.**
Supports Bluetooth v4.0 (includes BLE* and Bluetooth
-
3.0+HS).**
* BLE: Bluetooth Low Energy ** For Z87 MPOWER only.
Back Panel Connectors
Internal Connectors
I/O
1x PS/2 keyboard/ mouse combo port
■ 2x USB 2.0 ports
■ 1x Clear CMOS button
■ 6x USB 3.0 ports
■ 1x LAN (RJ45) port
■ 1x Optical S/PDIF OUT connector
■ 2x HDMI ports
■ 1x DisplayPort
■ 6x OFC audio jacks
■ 1x 24-pin ATX main power connector
■ 2x 8-pin ATX 12V power connectors
■ 8x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
■ 3x USB 2.0 connectors (supports additional 6 USB 2.0 ports)
■ 1x USB 3.0 connector (supports additional 2 USB 3.0 ports)
■ 2x 4-pin CPU fan connectors
■ 3x 4-pin System fan connectors
■ 1x Clear CMOS jumper
■ 1x Discharge jumper
■ 1x Front panel audio connector
■ 2x System panel connectors
■ 1x TPM module connector
■ 1x Chassis Intrusion connector
■ 14x V-Check points (7x V-Check connectors, 7x V-Check spots)
■ 1x GO2BIOS button
■ 1x Power button
■ 1x Reset button
■ 2x Base Clock control buttons
■ 1x OC Genie button
■ 1x Multi-BIOS switch
■ 1x OC Genie mode switch
■ 1x 2-Digit Debug Code LED
■ 1x Wi-Fi/ Bluetooth module connector
■ NUVOTON NCT6779 Controller Chip
Controller Hardware
Monitor
CPU/System temperature detection
■ CPU/System fan speed detection
■ CPU/System fan speed control
Chapter 1
1-5 Getting Started
BIOS Features
Special Features
Chapter 1
Software Drivers
Form Factor
2x 64 Mb 󰘱ash
■ UEFI AMI BIOS
■ ACPI 5.0, PnP 1.0a, SM BIOS 2.7, DMI 2.0
■ Multi-language
■ OC Certi󰘰ed
■ Audio Boost
■ Killer Ethernet
■ OC Genie 4
■ Click BIOS 4
■ Intel Wireless Display
■ NVIDIA SLI
■ AMD CrossFire
■ Sound Blaster Cinema
■ LN2 Mode
■ GO2BIOS
■ Easy Button
■ Direct OC
■ V-Check Points
■ Clear CMOS Button
■ Total Fan Control
■ Gaming Device Port
■ Super Charger
■ Super RAID
■ Wi-Fi (for Z87 MPOWER only)
■ Bluetooth (for Z87 MPOWER only)
■ Command Center
■ MSI
Command Center
­Super Charger
­Super RAID
­Live Update 5
­Fast Boot
-
7-ZIP
■ Intel Turbo Boost Monitor
■ Intel Extreme Tuning Utility
■ Norton Internet Security Solution
■ Trend Micro SafeSync
■ Sound Blaster Cinema
■ Killer Network Manager
■ ATX Form Factor
■ 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
For the latest information about CPU, please visit http://www.msi.com/service/cpu-support/
For more information on compatible components, please visit http://www.msi.com/service/test-report/
1-6Getting Started

Connectors Quick Guide

Wi-Fi/Bluetooth expansion module connector
(optional)
JPWR2
SYSFAN1
JPWR3
CPU Socket
CPUFAN1
DIMM1
DIMM2
DIMM3
DIMM4
CPUFAN2
Back Panel
PCI_E1
PCI_E2
MSATA_1
PCI_E3
PCI_E4
PCI_E5
PCI_E6
PCI_E7
JAUD1
POWER1
RESET1
SW-TACT1
SW-TACT2
JDISCH1
OC1
JTPM1
FASTB1
OC_SWITCH1
JUSB3
JUSB2
JUSB1
FV1
JPWR1
SYSFAN3
MULTI_BIOS_SWITCH1
JBAT1
JUSB4
SATA1_2 JCI1
SATA3_4
SATA5_6
SATA7_8 SYSFAN2
JFP2 JFP1
Chapter 1
1-7 Getting Started
Connectors Reference Guide
Port Name Port Type Page
Back Panel I/O Ports 1-9
CPU Socket LGA1150 CPU Socket 1-1
CPUFAN1~2,SYSFAN1~3 Fan Power Connectors 1-2
DIMM1~4 DDR3 Memory Slots 1-1
FASTB1 GO2BIOS Button 1-3
Chapter 1
FV1 V-Check Connectors 1-3
JAUD1 Front Panel Audio Connector 1-2
JBAT1 Clear CMOS Jumper 1-3
JCI1 Chassis Intrusion Connector 1-2
JDISCH1 Discharge Jumper 1-3
JFP1, JFP2 System Panel Connectors 1-2
JPWR1~3 ATX Power Connectors 1-1
JTPM1 TPM Module Connector 1-3
JUSB1~3 USB 2.0 Expansion Connectors 1-2
JUSB4 USB 3.0 Expansion Connector 1-2
MSATA_1 mSATA Slot 1-2
MULTI BIOS SWITCH Multi-BIOS Switch 1-3
OC_SWITCH1 OC Genie Mode Switch 1-3
OC1 OC Genie Button 1-3
PCI_E2, 5, 7 PCIe x16 Expansion Slots 1-1
PCI_E1, 3, 4, 6 PCIe x1 Expansion Slots 1-1
POWER1 Power Button 1-3
RESET1 Reset Button 1-3
SATA1~8 SATA Connectors 1-2
SW-TACT1, SW-TACT2 Base Clock Control Buttons 1-3
2
5
5
5
1
9
6
8
6
6
7
0
7
8
9
7
8
3
8
8
4
4
4
4
1-8Getting Started

Back Panel Quick Guide

PS/2 Keyboard/ Mouse Combo Port
Clear CMOS
Button
USB 2.0 Port DisplayPort
PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Combo Port
LAN Port
USB 3.0 Port
A combination of PS/2® mouse/keyboard DIN connector for a PS/2® mouse/keyboard.
Clear CMOS Button
▶ There is CMOS RAM present on board that is powered by an external battery to store
system con󰘰guration data. Using CMOS RAM, the system can automatically boot into the operating system (OS) every time it is turned on. If you wish to clear the system con󰘰guration, press the button to clear the data.
USB 2.0 Port
▶ The USB 2.0 port is for attaching USB 2.0 devices such as keyboard, mouse, or other
USB 2.0-compatible devices.
USB 3.0 Port
▶ USB 3.0 port is backward-compatible with USB 2.0 devices. It supports data transfer
rate up to 5 Gbit/s (SuperSpeed).
Optical
S/PDIF-Out
HDMI
USB 3.0 Port
HDMI
Line-In
Line-Out
Mic
RS-Out
CS-Out
SS-Out
Chapter 1
Important
In order to use USB 3.0 devices, you must connect to a USB 3.0 port. If a USB cable is used, it must be USB 3.0 compliant.
LAN Port
▶ The standard RJ-45 LAN jack is for connecting to a Local Area Network (LAN).
LED LED Status Description
O󰘯 No link
LINK/ACT
LED
SPEED
LED
Link/ Activity LED
Speed LED
Yellow Linked
Blinking Data activity
O󰘯 10 Mbps connection
Green 100 Mbps connection
Orange 1 Gbps connection
1-9 Getting Started
Optical S/PDIF-Out
®
▶ This S/PDIF (Sony & Philips Digital Interconnect Format) connector is provided for
digital audio transmission to external speakers through an optical 󰘰ber cable.
HDMI Port
▶ The High-De󰘰nition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an all-digital audio-video interface
that is capable of transmitting uncompressed streams. HDMI supports all types of TV formats, including standard, enhanced, or high-de󰘰nition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on a single cable.
DisplayPort
▶ DisplayPort is a digital display interface standard. This connector is used to connect a
Chapter 1
monitor with DisplayPort inputs.
This platform supports dual-display and triple-display function.
(Extend the desktop to the
(Monitors have the same
Audio Ports
▶ These connectors are used for audio devices. The color of the jack refers to the
function of the connector.
Important
HDMI+DisplayPort HDMI+HDMI HDMI+HDMI+DisplayPort
Extend mode
other monitor)
Clone mode
screen)
Blue-Line in: Used for connecting external audio outputting devices.
■ Green- Line out: Used as a connector for front speakers sound line out in 2/ 4/
5.1/ 7.1 channel mode or for headphone. Pink- Mic: Used as a connector for a microphone.
■ Black- RS-Out: Rear surround sound line out in 4/ 5.1/ 7.1 channel mode.
■ Orange- CS-Out: Center/ subwoofer line out in 5.1/ 7.1 channel mode.
■ Gray- SS-Out: Side surround sound line out in 7.1 channel mode.
1-10Getting Started

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

Introduction to the LGA 1150 CPU

The surface of the LGA 1150 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.
Notch
Golden triangle is the Pin 1 indicator
Notch
Important
Overheating 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.
Replacing the CPU When replacing the CPU, always turn o󰘯 the system’s power supply and unplug the
power supply’s power cord to ensure the safety of the CPU. Overclocking
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 speci󰘰cations is not recommend. MSI does not guarantee the damages or risks caused by inadequate operation beyond product speci󰘰cations.
Chapter 1
1-11 Getting Started

CPU & Heatsink Installation

When installing a CPU, always remember to install a CPU heatsink. A CPU heatsink is necessary to prevent overheating and maintain system stability. Follow the steps below to ensure correct CPU and heatsink installation. Wrong installation can damage both the CPU and the motherboard.
Watch the video to learn how to install CPU & heatsink. at the address below.
http://youtu.be/bf5La099urI
Chapter 1
1. Push the load lever down to unclip it and lift to the fully open position.
2. The load plate will automatically lift up as the load lever is pushed to the fully open
Video Demonstration
position.
Load lever
Load plate
Retention tab
Important
Do not touch the socket contacts or the bottom of the CPU.
1-12Getting Started
3. Align the notches with the socket alignment keys. Lower the CPU straight down, without tilting or sliding the CPU in the socket. Inspect the CPU to check if it is properly seated in the socket.
4. Close and slide the load plate under the retention knob. Close and engage the load lever.
CPU notches
Alignment Key
Retention knob
Chapter 1
5. When you press down the load lever the PnP cap will automatically pop up from the CPU socket. Do not discard the PnP cap. Always replace the PnP cap if the CPU is removed from the socket.
6. Evenly spread a thin layer of thermal paste (or thermal tape) on the top of the CPU. This will help in heat dissipation and prevent CPU overheating.
PnP cap
Thermal paste
1-13 Getting Started
7. Locate the CPU fan connector on the motherboard.
8. Place the heatsink on the motherboard with the fan’s cable facing towards the fan
Chapter 1
9. Push down the heatsink until the four fasteners get wedged into the holes on
10. Inspect the motherboard to ensure that the fastener-ends have been properly
11. Finally, attach the CPU fan cable to the CPU fan connector on the motherboard.
connector and the fasteners matching the holes on the motherboard.
CPU fan connector
the motherboard. Press the four fasteners down to fasten the heatsink. As each fastener locks into position a click should be heard.
locked in place.
Motherboard
Fastener-end
Important
Con󰘰rm that the CPU heatsink has formed a tight seal with the CPU before booting
your system. Whenever the CPU is not installed, always protect the CPU socket pins by covering
the socket with the plastic cap. If you purchased a separate CPU and heatsink/ cooler, Please refer to the
documentation in the heatsink/ cooler package for more details about installation.
1-14Getting Started

Memory

These DIMM slots are used for installing memory modules. For more information on compatible components, please visit http://www.msi.com/service/test-report/
DIMM1
DIMM2
DIMM3
DIMM4
Video Demonstration
Watch the video to learn how to install memories at the address below.
http://youtu.be/76yLtJaKlCQ

Dual-Channel mode Population Rule

In Dual-Channel mode, the memory modules can transmit and receive data with two data bus channels simultaneously. Enabling Dual-Channel mode can enhance system performance. The following illustrations explain the population rules for Dual-Channel mode.
Chapter 1
DIMM2
DIMM4
DIMM1
DIMM2
DIMM3
DIMM4
Important
DDR3 memory modules are not interchangeable with DDR2, and the DDR3
standard is not backward compatible. Always install DDR3 memory modules in DDR3 DIMM slots.
To ensure system stability, memory modules must be of the same type and density
in Dual-Channel mode. Due to chipset resource usage, the system will only detect up to 31+ GB of memory
(not full 32 GB) when all DIMM slots have 8GB memory modules installed.
1-15 Getting Started

Mounting Screw Holes

When installing the motherboard, 󰘰rst install the necessary mounting stands required for an motherboard on the mounting plate in your computer case. If there is an I/O back plate that came with the computer case, please replace it with the I/O backplate that came with the motherboard package. The I/O backplate should snap easily into the computer case without the need for any screws. Align the mounting plate’s mounting stands with the screw holes on the motherboard and secure the motherboard with the screws provided with your computer case. The locations of the screw holes on the motherboard are shown below. For more information, please refer to the manual that came with the computer case.
Chapter 1
The I/O ports should be facing
toward the rear of the computer
case. They should line up with the
holes on the I/O backplate.
Important
Install the motherboard on a 󰘱at surface free from unnecessary debris.
To prevent damage to the motherboard, any contact between the motherboard
circuitry and the computer case, except for the mounting stands, is prohibited. Please make sure there are no loose metal components on the motherboard or
within the computer case that may cause a short circuit of the motherboard.
1-16Getting Started

Power Supply

13 .+3 .3 V
1. +3. 3
V
14 .-1 2V
2. +3. 3
V
15 .Gr ou nd
3
.G rou nd
16 .PS -O N
#
4. +5 V
17 .Gr ou nd
5
.G rou nd
18 .Gr ou nd
6. +5 V
19 .Gr ou nd
7
.G rou nd
22 .+5
V
10 .+1 2V
20 .Re s
8. PW R O
K
23 .+5
V
11
.+ 12V
21 .+5
V
9. 5VS B
24 .Gr ou nd
12 .+3 .3
V
7. +12 V
3.
Gr oun d
5. +12 V
1.
Gr oun d
8. +12 V
4
.G rou nd
6. +12 V
2
.G rou nd
Video Demonstration
Watch the video to learn how to install power supply connectors.
http://youtu.be/gkDYyR_83I4

JPWR1~3: ATX Power Connectors

These connectors allow you to connect an ATX power supply. To connect the ATX power supply, align the power supply cable with the connector and 󰘰rmly press the cable into the connector. If done correctly, the clip on the power cable should be hooked on the motherboard’s power connector.
JPWR2/ JPWR3
JPWR1
Chapter 1
Important
Make sure that all the power cables are securely connected to a proper ATX power supply to ensure stable operation of the motherboard.
1-17 Getting Started

Expansion Slots

This motherboard contains numerous slots for expansion cards, such as discrete graphics or audio cards.

PCI_E1~E7: PCIe Expansion Slot

The PCIe slot supports the PCIe interface expansion card.
Chapter 1
When adding or removing expansion cards, always turn o󰘯 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.
PCIe 3.0 x16 Slot
PCIe 2.0 x1 Slot
Important

PCIe x16 Slots Bandwidth Table

The table below shows the correlation between the PCIe slots bandwidth and multiple graphics cards.
Slot
PCI_E2 x16 x8 x8 PCI_E5 x8 x4 PCI_E7 x4
Single 2-Way 3-Way
1-18Getting Started
Bandwidth

Video/ Graphics Cards

If available, this motherboard takes advantage of the CPU’s integrate graphics processor, but discrete video cards can be installed by way of the motherboard’s expansion slots. Adding on one or more discrete video cards will signi󰘰cantly boost the system’s graphics performance. For best compatibility, MSI graphics cards are recommended.
Video Demonstration
Watch the video to learn how to install a graphics card on PCIe x16 slot with butter󰘱y lock.
http://youtu.be/mG0GZpr9w_A

Single Video Card Installation

Determine what type of expansion slot(s) the video card will use. Locate the
1. expansion slot(s) on the motherboard. Remove any protective expansion slot covers from the computer case.
Line up the video card on top of the expansion slot(s) with the display ports facing
2. out of the computer case. For a single video card installation, using the PCI_E2 slot is recommended.
Push the video card into its expansion slot(s). Depending on the expansion slot(s)
3. used, there should be clip(s) on the expansion slot(s) that will lock in place.
If needed, screw the edge of the graphics card to the computer case. Some video
4. cards might require a power cable directly from the power supply.
Please consult your video card’s manual for further instructions regarding driver
5. installation or other special settings.
Chapter 1
1-19 Getting Started

AMD CrossFire™ (Multi-GPU) Technology

AMD CrossFire™ is a multi-GPU performance gaming platform. By linking together two or more discrete GPUs, CrossFire™ can signi󰘰cant improve system graphics performance. It allows the ability to scale a system’s graphics power as needed, making it the most scalable gaming platform. This motherboard will automatically detect CrossFire™ technology and make changes in the BIOS as needed. Follow the instructions below to ensure a successful two-way CrossFire™ installation.
1.
2.
Chapter 1
Install two AMD Radeon™ HD graphics cards into the PCI_E2 & PCI_E5 expansion slots.
With the two cards installed, two CrossFire™ Video Link cable are required to connect the graphics cards. Attach one side of the cable on each of the cards by way of the metal contacts (please refer to the picture below). Please note that although two graphics cards have been installed, only the display ports on the graphics card installed in the 󰘰rst PCIe x16 slot will work. All displays should be connected to this graphics card.
CrossFire Video Link Cable (optional)
Important
Please ensure that all graphics cards used in CrossFire™ mode are of the same
brand and speci󰘰cations. For best compatibility with the motherboard, MSI graphics cards are recommended.
Make sure to connect an adequate power supply to the power connectors on the
graphics cards to ensure stable operation.
1-20Getting Started
Boot up the computer and install the drivers and software included in your video
3. card package. For more information, please refer to the manual that came with your video card.
After all of the hardware and software has been properly installed, reboot the
4. system. After entering the operating system (OS), right click on the desktop and choose the “Catalyst Control Center”.
The CrossFire™ setting must be enabled to allow CrossFire™ mode to operate.
5. The follow screen appears in the Catalyst Control Center. Depending on your operating system, the screen may look di󰘯erent.
Chapter 1
Important
A CrossFire
SuperTiling
Scissor Mode
Alternate Frame Rendering
Super Anti-aliasing.
For more details, please consult the graphics card manual.
TM
system has four possible display modes:
1-21 Getting Started

NVIDIA® SLI Technology

NVIDIA’s SLI (Scalable Link Interface) technology allows two or more GPUs to run in tandem within a system to achieve signi󰘰cant graphics performance gains. To utilize this technology, the GPU cards must be connected by an SLI Video Link.
If you intend to use SLI mode, please follow the instructions below to properly set up SLI mode. The instructions below are meant for a two video card SLI con󰘰guration.
1.
2.
Chapter 1
Install two NVIDIA graphics cards in the PCI_E2 and the PCI_E5 slots. With the two cards installed, a SLI Video Link cable is required to connect the
graphics cards. Attach one side of the cable on each of the cards by way of the metal contacts (please refer to the picture below). Please note that although two graphics cards have been installed, only the display ports on the graphics card installed in the 󰘰rst PCIe x16 slot will work. All displays should be connected to this graphics card.
SLI Video Link Cable (optional)
Boot up the computer and install the drivers and software included in your video
3. card package. For more information, please refer to the manual that came with your video card.
1-22Getting Started
After all of the hardware and software has been properly installed, reboot the
4. system. After entering the operating system (OS), right click on the desktop and choose the “NVIDIA Control Panel”.
Enter the NVIDIA Control Panel. Choose the “Maximize 3D Performance” setting
5. to enable SLI mode. The con󰘰guration screen is shown below. Depending on your operating system, the screen may look di󰘯erent.
Choose this item
Chapter 1
Important
Please ensure that all graphics cards used in SLI mode are of the same brand and
speci󰘰cations. For best compatibility with the motherboard, MSI graphics cards are recommended.
Make sure to connect an adequate power supply to the power connectors on the graphics cards to ensure stable operation.
If you wish to remove one graphics card and quit the SLI function, make sure the
“Maximize 3D Performance” function is disabled before removing the graphics card.
1-23 Getting Started

Internal Connectors

SATA1~8: SATA Connector

This connector is a high-speed SATA interface port. Each connector can connect to one SATA device. SATA devices include disk drives (HDD), solid state drives (SSD), and optical drives (CD/ DVD/ Blu-Ray).
Watch the video to learn how to Install SATA HDD.
http://youtu.be/RZsMpqxythc
Chapter 1
SATA1~6 (6Gb/s, by Intel® Z87) SATA7~8 (6Gb/s, by ASMedia® ASM1061)
Video Demonstration
SATA8 SATA7
SATA6 SATA5
SATA2
SATA1 SATA4 SATA3
Important
The SATA6 port will be unavailable when install a SSD in the mSATA port.
Many SATA devices also need a power cable from the power supply. Such devices
include disk drives (HDD), solid state drives (SSD), and optical drives (CD / DVD / Blu-Ray). Please refer to the device’s manual for further information.
Many computer cases also require that large SATA devices, such as HDDs, SSDs,
and optical drives, be screwed down into the case. Refer to the manual that came with your computer case or your SATA device for further installation instructions.
Please do not fold the SATA cable at a 90-degree angle. Data loss may result
during transmission otherwise. SATA cables have identical plugs on either sides of the cable. However, it is
recommended that the 󰘱at connector be connected to the motherboard for space saving purposes.
1-24Getting Started

CPUFAN1~2,SYSFAN1~3: Fan Power Connectors

1
.Ground
2.+12V
3.Sens
e
4.Speed C
ontro
l
1
.Ground
2.Speed
C
ontro
l
3.Sens
e
4.NC
The fan power connectors support system cooling fans with +12V. If the motherboard has a System Hardware Monitor chipset on-board, you must use a specially designed fan with a speed sensor to take advantage of the CPU fan control. Remember to connect all system fans. Some system fans may not connect to the motherboard and will instead connect to the power supply directly. A system fan can be plugged into any available system fan connector.
CPUFAN1/ CPUFAN2
SYSFAN3/ SYSFAN1/ SYSFAN2
Chapter 1
Important
Please refer to your processor’s o󰘲cial website or consult your vendor to 󰘰nd
recommended CPU heatsink. These connectors support Smart Fan Control with liner mode. The Command
Center utility can be installed to automatically control the fan speeds according to the CPU’s and system’s temperature.
If there are not enough ports on the motherboard to connect all system fans,
adapters are available to connect a fan directly to a power supply. Before 󰘰rst boot up, ensure that there are no cables impeding any fan blades.
1-25 Getting Started

JFP1, JFP2: System Panel Connectors

1. +
3.
-
10 .N o
Pi
n
5.
­Re se t
S
wi tc h
HD D
LE
D
P
ow er
S
wi tc h
P
ow er
LE
D
7. +
9. Re se rv e
d
8.
-
6. +
4.
-
2. +
1
.Ground
3.Suspend
LE
D
5.Power
LE
D
7.No Pi
n
8. +
6.
-
4. +
2.
-
Buzz er
S
peak er
These connectors connect to the front panel switches and LEDs. The JFP1 connector is compliant with the Intel® Front Panel I/O Connectivity Design Guide. When installing the front panel connectors, please use the optional M-Connector to simplify installation. Plug all the wires from the computer case into the M-Connector and then plug the M-Connector into the motherboard.
Watch the video to learn how to Install front panel connectors.
http://youtu.be/DPELIdVNZUI
Chapter 1
Video Demonstration
JFP2
JFP1
Important
On the connectors coming from the case, pins marked by small triangles are
positive wires. Please use the diagrams above and the writing on the M-Connector to determine correct connector orientation and placement.
The majority of the computer case’s front panel connectors will primarily be plugged
into JFP1.
1-26Getting Started

JUSB1~3: USB 2.0 Expansion Connector

1
0
.
N
C
8
.
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This connector is designed for connecting high-speed USB peripherals such as USB HDDs, digital cameras, MP3 players, printers, modems, and many others.
The JUSB1 (red mark) connector supports MSI’s new SuperCharger technology which provides quicker USB charging of your cellular phone or other USB-powered devices. To enable this feature, please install the MSI SuperCharger application on your computer. When the SuperCharger application is turned on, the JUSB1 connector will convert data channels to extra power channels to quickly charge your connected device. Please note that when the SuperCharger application is turned on, data transmission and synchronization over the JUSB1 connector will not function. To enable the JUSB1 connector to function as a normal USB 2.0 connector, please turn o󰘯 the SuperCharger application. When the computer is in stand-by or hibernation mode (S3/ S4/ S5) SuperCharger mode will automatically be enabled.
Important
Note that the VCC and GND pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible
damage. Please only connect one device per USB port to ensure stable charging.
SuperCharger Technology is only available on select MSI motherboard models.
Please refer to the MSI website to check if your motherboard has SuperCharger technology.
For iPad, JUSB1 (red mark) can still charge iPad in S3, S4, S5 state.
We recommend that don’t disconnect the device when you charge it in S1 state.
Chapter 1
1-27 Getting Started

JUSB4: USB 3.0 Expansion Connector

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The USB 3.0 port is backwards compatible with USB 2.0 devices. It supports data transfer rates up to 5Gbits/s (SuperSpeed).
Chapter 1
Note that the VCC and GND pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible
damage. To use a USB 3.0 device, you must connect the device to a USB 3.0 port through
an optional USB 3.0 compliant cable.
JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector
This connector connects to the chassis intrusion switch cable. If the computer case is opened, the chassis intrusion mechanism will be activated. The system will record this intrusion and a warning message will 󰘱ash on screen. To clear the warning, you must enter the BIOS utility and clear the record.
Important
1-28Getting Started

JAUD1: Front Panel Audio Connector

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This connector allows you to connect the front audio panel located on your computer case. This connector is compliant with the Intel® Front Panel I/O Connectivity Design Guide.
MSATA_1: mSATA Slot
The mSATA slot is for mSATA interface solid state drives (SSD).
Chapter 1
Important
The SATA6 port will be unavailable when install a SSD in the mSATA port.
1-29 Getting Started
.

JTPM1: TPM Module Connector

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This connector connects to a optional TPM (Trusted Platform Module) Module. Please refer to the TPM security platform manual for more details and usages.
Chapter 1
1-30Getting Started

Voltage Checkpoints

These voltage checkpoints are used to measure the current system voltages. A multimeter (not included) will be required to check voltages.

FV1: V-Check Connectors

To check the voltage, please use the included voltage checkpoint cables included in the motherboard package. Attach the positive lead of the multimeter to the voltage checkpoint cable and the negative lead to the ground connector.
GND
7
CPU_SA
CPU_RING
CPU_GFX
CPU_CORE0
VCC_DDR
1
CPU_VCCIN
Point Description GND (pin 7) Ground CPU_SA (pin 6) The CPU_SA (CPU System Agent) voltage is the voltage
CPU_RING (pin 5) The CPU Ring is an interface for integrated controllers
CPU_GFX (pin 4) The CPU_GFX voltage is the voltage supplied to the
CPU_CORE0 (pin 3) CPU core0 voltage. The CPU voltage is the voltage
VCC_DDR (pin 2) Memory voltage. The DDR memory voltage is the voltage
CPU_VCCIN (pin1) The CPU VCCIN voltage is the CPU power source that is
supplied to the integrated memory controller inside the CPU.
inside the CPU. The CPU Ring voltage can a󰘯ect the CPU overclocking performance.
integrated graphics processor located on the CPU.
supplied to the CPU core. Higher overclocks may require higher CPU core voltages to maintain stability.
supplied to the DDR memory modules on the motherboard. Lower memory timings may require higher voltages to maintain system stability.
shared with components of the CPU.
Chapter 1
1-31 Getting Started

V-Check Spots

These voltage check spots are for you to measure CPU and PCH voltages. To check the voltage, please attach the positive lead of the multimeter to these spots and the negative lead to any ground spot.
Chapter 1
Spot Description CPU_CORE3 CPU core3 voltage CPU_CORE2 CPU core2 voltage CPU_CORE1 CPU core1 voltage CPU_VCOMP CPU Vcomp voltage CPU_VCCIO IO voltage for CPU VCC PCH_VCCVRM VRM voltage for PCH VCC PCH_CORE PCH core voltgae
CPU_CORE3
CPU_CORE2 CPU_CORE1
CPU_VCOMP CPU_VCCIO
PCH_VCCVRM
PCH_CORE
1-32Getting Started

Buttons

OC
GE NI
E
OC
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The motherboard has numerous on-board buttons to control various functions. This section will explain how to change your motherboard’s functions through the use of these on-board buttons.

OC1: OC Genie Button

This button is used to automatically overclock the system. Press this button once while the system is o󰘯 to enable OC Genie. The button will lock remain depressed until it is pushed again to disable OC Genie. On the next boot, the OC Genie utility will automatically overclock the CPU settings to optimal performance values. To disable OC Genie, power o󰘯 the system and press the OC Genie button again. The button will depress and the CPU con󰘰guration settings will return to normal values.
On O󰘯
Important
This motherboard provides two ways to enable OC Genie: press the physical OC
Genie button on the motherboard, or click the virtual OC Genie button in BIOS. You can specify how OC Genie to be enabled by using the "OC Genie Function Control" item in BIOS.
Please install DDR3 1333 or faster memory and equip a better heatsink/cooler to
use the OC Genie function. We do not guarantee the OC Genie overclocking range or the damages/risks
caused by overclocking behavior. It is possible to disable the OC Genie function in the BIOS setup. Please refer to the
BIOS section of the manual for instructions on how to turn o󰘯 OC Genie from the BIOS.
The usage of OC Genie is at the user’s own risk. Overclocking is never guaranteed
by MSI. To ensure successfully OC Genie usage, MSI components are recommended.
Chapter 1
1-33 Getting Started

POWER1: Power Button

R
ese t
This button is used to turn-on and turn-o󰘯 the system. Press the button once to turn-on or turn-o󰘯 the system.
Chapter 1
RESET1: Reset Button
This reset button is used to reset the system. Press the button to reset the system.
SW-TACT1, SW-TACT2: Base Clock Control Buttons
These buttons are used to increase or decrease the base clock frequency. Pressing the Plus/ Minus button once will increase/ decrease the base clock frequency 1 MHz when the system is in regular operation state.
Plus button: Base clock + 1 MHz
1-34Getting Started
Minus button: Base clock - 1 MHz

FASTB1: GO2BIOS Button

If you enable the "MSI Fast Boot" feature in BIOS, the keyboard will be disabled during POST and entering BIOS Setup by pressing "DEL" key will not function. Once you press this button, the system will enter BIOS setup directly at next boot.
Chapter 1
1-35 Getting Started

Jumper

JBAT1: Clear CMOS Jumper

There is CMOS RAM onboard that is external powered from a battery located on the motherboard to save system con󰘰guration data. With the CMOS RAM, the system can automatically boot into the operating system (OS) every time it is turned on. If you want to clear the system con󰘰guration, set the jumpers to clear the CMOS RAM.
Chapter 1
You can clear the CMOS RAM by shorting this jumper while the system is o󰘯. Afterwards, open the jumper . Do not clear the CMOS RAM while the system is on because it will damage the motherboard.
JDISCH1: Discharge Jumper
This jumper allows you to discharge the motherboard by using the jumper instead of removing the battery.
1 1
Keep Data Clear Data
Important
1 1
Normal Discharge
Important
You can discharge the motherboard by shorting this jumper while the system is o󰘯.
1-36Getting Started

Switches

MULTI BIOS SWITCH: Multi-BIOS Switch

This motherboard has two built-in BIOS ROMs (Labeled A and B, default BIOS ROM is A). If one is crashed, you can shift to the other for booting by sliding the switch. In addition, these two BIOS ROMs do not have the Auto Recovery feature, you need to maintain or update the BIOS version by yourself.
Blue LED
Green LED
AB(Default)
BIOS recovery using the M-Flash utility:
1. Ensure that the system is switched o󰘯.
2. Boot up the system with the operational BIOS ROM by switching the Multi-BIOS switch.
3. Enter the BIOS setup → M-Flash → Save BIOS to storage and then save the 󰘰le to a bootable USB drive disk (root folder).
4. Switch back to the BIOS ROM that needs to be recovered.
5. Choose “Select one 󰘰le to update BIOS” and recover the BIOS ROM with the 󰘰le saved in the USB drive disk.
Important
Do not use the Multi-BIOS switch when system is booting up.
Chapter 1
1-37 Getting Started

OC_SWITCH1: OC Genie Mode Switch

This swtich provides two overclocking modes (Gear 1 and Gear 2) for OC Genie operation. When you press the OC Genie button, the overclocking procedure will be performed according to the setting of this switch. The Gear 1 mode is the default setting. The Gear 2 mode allows the OC Genie function to overclock the CPU/ system frequency higher then Gear 1.
Chapter 1
Gear1 (Default)
Red LEDBlue LED
Gear2
1-38Getting Started

LED Status Indicators

OC Switch LEDs

2-Digit Debug Code LED
Chapter 1

BIOS LEDs

HDD LED
BIOS LEDs
These LEDs are used to distinguish BIOS A or B is in operation. When the bottom LED lights blue, the BIOS A is in operation. When the top LED lights green, the BIOS B is in operation.

HDD_LED

This LED will 󰘱ash whenever there's a disk activity.
OC Switch LEDs
These LEDs are used to indicate OC Genie operation mode. When the left LED lights blue, the OC Genie operation mode is Gear1. When the right LED lights red, the OC Genie operation mode is Gear2.
1-39 Getting Started

Debug Code LED Table

Please refer to the table below to get more information about the Debug Code LED message.
Post Status
02,07 Power on CPU Initialization
03,08 Power on North Bridge Initialization
04,09 Power on South Bridge Initialization
Chapter 1
0B Power on Cache Initialization
11~14,32~36,56~5A Early CPU Initialization
15~18,37~3A Early North Bridge Initialization
19~1C,3B~3E Early South Bridge Initialization
1D~2F,31,3F~4E,50~55 Early Memory Initialization
63~67,D0 Late CPU Initialization
69~6F,D1 Late North Bridge Initialization
70~77,D2 Late South Bridge Initialization
92~96,B5,D4 PCI bus Initialization
97,98,99,B2,D5~D7
9A~A7,B4
A8,A9,AB Start of Setup. BIOS setup if needed/ requested.
AD/AE Ready To Boot event/Legacy Boot event
Console Output/Input devices/Console initialization and Load Option ROM (VGA, RAID, parallel ports, serial ports……)
Onboard devices Initialize and Detect (USB/ SATA/ SCSI……)
1-40Getting Started

Drivers and Utilities

After you install the operating system you will need to install drivers to maximize the performance of the new computer you just built. MSI motherboard comes with a Driver Disc. Drivers allow the computer to utilize your motherboard more e󰘲ciently and take advantage of any special features we provide.
You can protect your computer from viruses by installing the bundled security program. The bundle also includes a variety of powerful and creative utilities.

Total Installer

Total Installer is very easy to use and does a great job of 󰘰nding necessary drivers. Please follow the steps below to install drivers and utilities for your new computer.
Insert MSI Driver Disc into the optical drive. The setup screen will automatically
1. appear if autorun is enabled in OS.
Click Total Installer. A popup dialogue will appear listing all necessary drivers.
2.
Chapter 1
Click here
Select all checkbox on driver listing dialog.
3. Click Install button.
4. The software installation will then be in progress, after it has 󰘰nished it will prompt
5. you to restart.
Click OK button to 󰘰nish.
6. Restart your computer.
7.
You can also use the same method to install the utilities.
1-41 Getting Started
Chapter 2

Quick Installation

This chapter provides demonstration diagrams about how to install your computer. Some of the installations also provide video demonstrations. Please link to the URL to watch it with the web browser on your phone or tablet. You may have even link to the URL by scanning the QR code.
Important
The diagrams in this chapter are for reference only and may vary from the product you purchased.

CPU Installation

http://youtu.be/bf5La099urI
1
Chapter 2
3
5
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2-2Quick Installation
7
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Chapter 2
9
2-3 Quick Installation

Memory Installation

http://youtu.be/76yLtJaKlCQ
1
Chapter 2
2
3
2-4Quick Installation

Motherboard Installation

1
2
Chapter 2
2-5 Quick Installation
Chapter 2
3
2-6Quick Installation

Power Connectors Installation

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2-8Quick Installation

SATA HDD Installation

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mSATA SSD Installation

Chapter 2
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Front Panel Connector Installation

JFP1 Connecotr Installation

http://youtu.be/DPELIdVNZUI

Front Panel Audio Connector Installation

Chapter 2
2-11 Quick Installation
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Peripheral Connector Installation

USB2.0 Connector Installation

Chapter 2
or

USB3.0 Connector Installation

2-12Quick Installation

Graphics Card Installation

http://youtu.be/mG0GZpr9w_A
1
Chapter 2
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2-13 Quick Installation
Chapter 2
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2-14Quick Installation
Chapter 3

BIOS Setup

CLICK BIOS is a revolutionary UEFI interface that allows you to setup and con󰘰gure your system for optimum use. Using your mouse and keyboard, users can change BIOS settings, monitor CPU temperature, select the boot device priority and view system information such as the CPU name, DRAM capacity, the OS version and the BIOS version. Users can import and export parameter data for backup or for sharing with friends. By connecting to the Internet within CLICK BIOS, users can browse webpages, check mail and use Live Update in your system.
Important
The items under each BIOS category described in this chapter are
under continuous update for better system performance. Therefore, the description may be slightly different from the latest BIOS and should be held for reference only.
The pictures in this chpater are for reference only and may vary from the
product you purchased. Please refer to the actual screens of your system for detailed information.
Please clear the CMOS data and restore the default settings if the system
becomes unbootable after changing BIOS settings. (Refer to the Clear CMOS jumper/ button section to clear the CMOS data, select the "Restore Defaults" and press <Enter> in BIOS to load the default settings.)

Entering Setup

The default settings offer the optimal performance for system stability in normal conditions. You may need to run the Setup program when:
Please load the default settings to restore the optimal system performance and
stability if the system becomes unstable after changing BIOS settings. Select the "Restore Defaults" and press <Enter> in BIOS to load the default settings.
Please clear the CMOS data and restore the default settings if the system becomes
unbootable after changing BIOS settings. (Refer to the Clear CMOS jumper/ button section to clear the CMOS data, select the "Restore Defaults" and press <Enter> in BIOS to load the default settings.)
If you are unfamiliar with the BIOS settings, we recommend that you keep the
default settings to avoid possible system damage or failure booting due to inappropriate BIOS configuration.

Entering BIOS Setup

Power on the computer and the system will start the Power On Self Test (POST) process. When the message below appears on the screen, please <DEL> key to enter BIOS:
If the message disappears before you respond and you still need to enter BIOS, restart the system by turning the computer OFF then back ON or pressing the RESET button. You may also restart the system by simultaneously pressing <Ctrl>, <Alt>, and
Chapter 3
<Delete> keys. MSI additionally provides two methods to enter the BIOS setup. You can click the
“GO2BIOS” tab on “MSI Fast Boot” utility screen or press the physical “GO2BIOS" button (optional) on the motherboard to enable the system going to BIOS setup directly at next boot.
An error message appears on the screen during the system booting up, and
requests you to run SETUP. You want to change the default settings for customized features.
Important
Press DEL key to enter Setup Menu, F11 to enter Boot Menu
Click "GO2BIOS" tab on "MSI Fast Boot" utility screen.
Important
Please be sure to install the “MSI Fast Boot” utility before using it to enter the BIOS setup.
3-2BIOS Setup

Overview

After entering BIOS, the following screen is displayed.
Temperature monitor
Model
name
Virtual OC
Genie Button
BIOS menu
selection
Menu display
Temperature monitor
▶ Shows the temperatures of the processor and the motherboard.
Language
▶ Allows you to select the language of the BIOS setup.
System information
▶ Shows the time, date, CPU name, CPU frequency, DRAM frequency, DRAM capacity
and the BIOS version.
BIOS menu selection
▶ The following options are available:
SETTINGS - Uses this menu to specify the parameters for chipset and boot
devices. OC - This menu contains the frequency and voltage adjustments. Increasing
the frequency can get better performance, however high frequency and heat can cause instability, we do not recommend general users to overclock.
M-FLASH - This menu provides the way to update BIOS with a USB flash
disk. OC PROFILE -This menu is used to set various overclocking profiles.
HARDWARE MONITOR - This menu is used to set the speeds of fans and
monitor voltages of system. BOARD EXPLORER - It will provide the information of the installed devices on
the motherboard.
Language
System
information
Boot device
priority bar
BIOS menu
selection
Chapter 3
3-3 BIOS Setup
Boot device priority bar
▶ You can move the device icons to change the boot priority.
Menu display
▶ This area provides BIOS settings and information to be configured.
Virtual OC Genie Button
▶ Enables or disables the OC Genie function by clicking on this button. When enabled,
this button will be light. Enabling OC Genie function can automatically overclock with MSI optimized overclocking profile.
Model Name
▶ Shows the model name of motherboard.
Sub-menu
Chapter 3
▶ If you find a point symbol to the left of certain items, that means a sub-menu can be
launched for additional options. You can use the arrow keys or mouse to highlight the item and press <Enter> or double-click the left mouse button to enter the sub-menu.
Scroll bar
▶ Slide the scroll bar or use the arrow keys to display the other items that are available
on the "menu display" area.
General Help
▶ The General Help displays a brief description to assist you in grasping the selected
item.
High priority Low priority
Sub-Menu Scroll bar
General Help
BIOS Setup
3-4

Operation

You can control BIOS settings with the mouse and the keyboard. The following table lists and describes the hot keys and the mouse operations.
Hot key Mouse Description <↑↓→← >
Select Item
Move the cursor
<Enter>
Click/ Double-click the left button
<Esc>
Click the right button <+> Increase the numeric value or make changes <-> Decrease the numeric value or make changes <F1> General Help <F4> CPU Specifications <F5> Enter Memory-Z <F6> Load optimized defaults <F8> OC Profile Load From USB <F9> OC Profile Save to USB <F10> Save Change and Reset <F12> Save a screenshot to a FAT/FAT32 USB drive
.
Select Icon/ Field
Jump to the Exit menu or return to the previous from a submenu
3-5
Chapter 3
BIOS Setup

SETTINGS

System Status

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.
System Time
Chapter 3
Sets the system time. Use tab key to switch between time elements. The time format is <hour> <minute> <second>.
SATA Port
▶ Show the information of connected SATA device.
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.
System Information
▶ Shows detailed system information, including CPU type, BIOS version, and Memory
(read only).
3-6BIOS Setup

Advanced

PCI Subsystem Settings
▶ Sets PCI express interface protocol and latency timer. Press <Enter> to enter the
sub-menu.
PEG0/ 1/ 2 - Gen X [Auto]
▶ Sets PCI Express protocol for matching different installed devices. PEG0, PEG1,
PEG2 are as first, second and third PCIe x16 slots. [Auto] Enables all PCIe Gen1, Gen2 and Gen3. supports. [Gen1] Enables PCIe Gen1 support only. [Gen2] Enables PCIe Gen2 support only. [Gen3] Enables PCIe Gen3 support only.
ACPI Settings
▶ Sets ACPI parameters of onboard power LED behaviors. Press <Enter> to enter the
sub-menu.
Power 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.
Integrated Peripherals
▶ Sets integrated peripherals' parameters, such as LAN, HDD, USB and audio. Press
<Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
Onboard LAN Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the onboard LAN controller.
LAN 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.
Network Stack [Disabled]
Sets UEFI network stack for optimizing IPv4 / IPv6 function. [Enabled] Enables UEFI network stack. [Disabled] Disables UEFI network stack.
Ipv4 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.
Chapter 3
3-7 BIOS Setup
Chapter 3
Integrated Graphics Configuration
▶ Adjusts integrated graphics settings for optimum system. Press <Enter> to enter the
sub-menu.
Ipv6 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.
SATA Mode [AHCI Mode]
Sets the operation mode of the onboard SATA controller. The default mode is
AHCI. [Disabled] Disables the SATA function. [IDE Mode] Specify the IDE mode for SATA storage devices. [AHCI Mode] Specify the AHCI mode for SATA storage devices. AHCI (Advanced
[RAID Mode] Enables RAID function for SATA storage devices.
SATA1~6 Hot Plug [Disabled]
Allows user to enable or disable the SATA hot plug support. This item will appear
when the “SATA Mode” set to [AHCI]/ [RAID]. [Enabled] Enables hot plug support for the SATA ports. [Disabled] Disables hot plug support for the SATA ports.
External SATA 6Gb/s Controller Mode [IDE]
Sets the operation mode of the external SATA controller. [Disabled] Disables the SATA function. [IDE Mode] Specify the IDE mode for SATA storage devices. [AHCI Mode] Specify the AHCI mode for SATA storage devices. AHCI (Advanced
HD Audio Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the onboard High Definition Audio controller.
HPET [Enabled]
Enables or disables the HPET (High Precision Event Timers) support.
Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG]
Selects a graphics device as the primary boot device. [IGD] Integrated Graphics Display. [PEG] PCI-Express Graphics Device.
Integrated Graphics Share Memory [64M]
Selects a fixed amount of system memory allocated to the onboard graphics. This
item defines the exact memory size shared to the onboard graphics. [Options: 32M,
64M, 128M, 256M]
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.
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.
3-8BIOS Setup
DVMT Memory [256MB]
DVMT memory can dynamically allocate system memory for running graphics-
intensive applications, such as 2D/3D games. [Options: 128MB, 256MB, Maximum]
IGD Multi-Monitor [Disabled]
Enables or disables the multi-screen output from integrated graphics and external
graphics card. [Enabled] Enables IGD multi-screen function. [Disabled] Disables IGD multi-screen function.
Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology
▶ Sets Intel® Rapid Start Technology for optimizing the system resume operation. Press
<Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology [Disabled]
Intel® Rapid Start Technology lets the system resume from sleep mode quickly.
This function is available when an SSD is installed. [Enabled] Enables Intel Rapid Start Technology. [Disabled] Disables Intel Rapid Start Technology.
Entry on S3 RTC Wake [Enabled]
Enables or disables to support S3 RTC wake up with Intel Rapid Start Technology.
This item will appear when “Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology” is enabled. [Enabled] Allows the system to enter the sleep mode with Intel Rapid Start
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Entry After [10 minutes]
▶ Sets a timer for system to enter the sleep mode with Intel Rapid Start
Technology. This item will appear when “Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology” is enabled. [Options: 1 minute ~ 120 minutes]
Active Page Threshold Support [Enabled]
Enables or disables to support Active Page Threshold when the Rapid Start
partition size is less than the system DRAM size. [Enabled] Enables the additional partition size of SSD for iRST. [Disabled] Disables this function.
Active Memory Threshold
Sets Rapid Start partition size for Active Page Threshold. This item will appear
when “Active Page Threshold Support” is enabled.
Technology.
Chapter 3
Important
The partition size must be larger then the amount of memory.
Hybrid Hard Disk Support [Disabled]
Enables or disables the Intel Rapid Start Technology to support hybrid hard disk
drive. [Enabled] Enables hybrid hard disk support. [Disabled] Disables hybrid hard disk support.
3-9 BIOS Setup
USB Configuration
▶ Sets the onboard USB controller and device function. Press <Enter> to enter the sub-
menu.
Chapter 3
Intel(R) Smart Connect Configuration
▶ Sets Intel Smart Connect Technology for optimizing system network performance in
sleep mode. Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
Power Management Setup
▶ Sets system Power Management of EuP2013 and AC Power Loss behaviors. Press
<Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
RapidStart Display Save/Restore [Enabled]
Enables or disables the Intel Rapid Start Display screen to be saved or restored.
The screen will be saved before the system enters sleep mode. Then the system
will restore the screen when wakened. [Enabled] Enables this function. [Disabled] Disables this function.
RapidStart Display Type [BIOS Save/Restore]
Selects the screen type of Intel Rapid Start Display. [BIOS Save/Restore] The BIOS POST splash screen will be saved/ restored. [DeskTop Save/Restore] The desktop image will be saved/ restored.
LakeTiny Feature [Disabled]
Enables or disables Intel Lake Tiny technology with iRST for SSD. This item
appears when "Intel C-State" is enabled. [Enabled] Enhance the dynamic IO load adjusted performance for accelerating
[Disabled] Disables this feature.
USB Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the onboard USB controller.
Legacy 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 for legacy operating systems that do not
[Disabled] The USB devices are available only for UEFI applications.
Onboard USB3.0 Controller [Enabled]
▶ Enables or disables the external USB 3.0 controller.
Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology [Enabled]
Enables or disables Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology. This feature can update
applications (ex. email and social networks) by periodically waking your system
from sleep mode. And you do not need to wait for the applications to update when
you wake up the system. [Enabled] Enables Intel smart connect technology. [Disabled] Disables Intel smart connect technology.
the SSD speed.
and enables or disables the legacy USB support.
support USB.
3-10BIOS Setup
EuP 2013 [Disabled]
Enables or disables the system power consumption according to EuP2013
regulation. [Enabled] Optimize the system power consumption according to EuP 2013
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Note: When enabled, the system will not support RTC wake up event functions.
Restore 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)
On board LED Control [On]
Enables or disables the onboard non-function LEDs. [On] Enables onboard non-function LEDs. [Off] Disables onboard non-function LEDs.
Windows 8 Configuration
▶ Sets Windows 8 detailed configuration and behaviors. Press <Enter> to enter the sub-
menu.
Windows 8 Feature [Disabled]
Enables the supports for Windows 8 or disables for other operating systems.
Before enabling this item, make sure all installed devices & utilities (hardware &
software) should meet the Windows 8 requirements. [Enabled] The system will switch to UEFI mode to meet the Windows 8
[Disabled] Disables this function.
MSI 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.
Fast Boot [Enabled for Windows 8, Disabled for other OS]
Enables or disables the Windows 8 fast boot feature. 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.
regulation.
before AC power loss.
requirement.
the following "Fast Boot" will be disabled and fixed.
Chapter 3
Important
If you want to enter BIOS with enabled “MSI Fast Boot” mode or enabled "Fast Boot" mode, you have to click the "GO2BIOS" tab on MSI Fast Boot utility screen or press the "GO2BIOS" button (optional) on the motherboard. And then the system will enter to BIOS setup directly at next boot.
3-11 BIOS Setup
Wake Up Event Setup
▶ Sets system wake up behaviors for different sleep modes. Press <Enter> to enter the
sub-menu.
Chapter 3
Internal GOP Configuration
Manages the onboard Graphics Output Protocol (GOP). Press <Enter> to enter
the sub-menu. This menu shows the iGFX Driver version for system information
management. This sub-menu will appear when “Windows 8 Feature” is enabled.
Secure 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 8
Feature” is enabled.
Secure Boot Control [Disabled]
▶ Enables or disables secure boot. [Enabled] Enables the secure boot function and allow you to set the secure
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Secure 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" is enabled. [Standard] The system will automatically load the secure keys from BIOS. [Custom] Allows user to configure the secure boot settings and manually
Image Execution Policy
▶ Sets the policy when the system image execution policy on Security Violation.
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu will appear when “Secure Boot Mode” sets to [Custom].
Key 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].
Wake Up Event By [BIOS]
Selects the wake up event by BIOS or operating system. [BIOS] Activates the following items, and use these items to set the wake up
[OS] The wake up events will be defined by OS.
Resume 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.
Date (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 <-> to select the date & time settings).
boot settings.
load the secure keys.
events.
3-12BIOS Setup
Resume By PCI or PCI-E Device [Disabled]
Disables or enables the system wake up by PCI or PCI express device. [Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from the power saving modes
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Resume By Onboard LAN [Disabled]
Disables or enables the system wake up by Onboard LAN. [Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from the power saving modes
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Resume From S3 by USB Device [Disabled]
Disables or enables the system wake up by USB devices. [Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from S3 (Suspend to RAM)
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Resume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]
Disables or enables 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.
Resume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
▶ Disables or enables 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.
when activity or input signal of PCI/ PCIe device is detected.
when activity or input signal of LAN device is detected.
sleep state when activity of USB device is detected.
activity of PS/2 mouse is detected.
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.
Full Screen Logo Display [Enabled]
▶ Enables or disables to show the full screen logo while system POST. [Enabled] The OS boots straight to the GUI without showing the POST screen. [Disabled] Shows the POST messages at booting.
Boot Mode Select [LEGACY+UEFI]
▶ Sets the system boot mode from legacy or UEFI architecture depending on OS
installation requirement. [UEFI] Enables UEFI BIOS boot mode support only. [LEGACY+UEFI] Enables both Legacy BIOS boot mode and UEFI BIOS boot
FIXED BOOT ORDER Priorities
▶ Sets device priority for system boot.
mode.
3-13 BIOS Setup
Chapter 3
Boot Option #1~N
▶ These items are used to prioritize the installed boot devices.

Security

Administrator Password
▶ Sets administrator password for system security. Enters the administrator password if
set; user has full rights to change the BIOS items.
User Password
▶ Sets User Password for system security. Enters the user password if set; but user
might have limited rights to change the BIOS items.
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> 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.
U-Key [Disabled]
▶ Enables or disables U-Key as user's password to access the system.
Make U-Key at
▶ Makes a key at the USB flash drive to prevent other people from accessing the
system. Only the user who has the key with the flash drive can access the system.
Trusted Computing
▶ Sets TPM (Trusted Platform Module) function.
Chapter 3
Chassis Intrusion Configuration
▶ Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
Important
TPM SUPPORT [Disabled]
Enables or disables the TPM function to build the endorsement key for accessing
the system.
Chassis Intrusion [Disabled]
This function will be available if the chassis equips a chassis intrusion switch.
Once the chassis is opened, the system will record and issue a warning message.
To clear the warning message, set the item to [Reset], then it will return to
[Enabled] later. [Options: Disabled, Enabled, Reset]
3-14BIOS Setup

Save & Exit

Discard Changes and Exit
▶ Exit BIOS setup without saving any change. This it is used to abandon all changes
and exit BIOS setup.
Save Changes and Reboot
▶ This item is used to save all changes and reboot the system.
Save Changes
▶ This item is used to save current changes.
Discard Changes
▶ This item is used to discard current all changes and restore to the previous values.
Restore Defaults
▶ This item is used to restore/ load all default values by the BIOS vendor.
Boot Override
▶ The installed boot-able devices will appear on this menu, you can select one of them
be a boot device to start booting.
3-15 BIOS Setup
Chapter 3
OC
Important
Overclocking your PC manually is only recommended for advanced users.
Overclocking is not guaranteed, and if done improperly, can void your warranty or
severely damage your hardware. If you are unfamiliar with overclocking, we advise you to use OC Genie for easy
overclocking.
Current CPU/ DRAM/ Ring Frequency
▶ These items show the current frequencies of installed CPU, Memory and Ring. Read-
Chapter 3
only.
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 the installed processor supports this function.
Current CPU Base Clock Strap
▶ Shows the current CPU Base clock strap. Read only. This item can only be changed if
the processor supports this function.
Adjust CPU Base Clock Strap [Auto]
▶ Sets the CPU Base Clock Strap. You may overclock the CPU Base Clock by adjusting
this value. Please note that overclocking behavior and stability is not guaranteed. This item can only be changed if the processor supports this function. If set to "Auto", BIOS will configure this setting automatically. [Options: Auto, 1.00, 1.25, 1.67]
3-16BIOS Setup
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 after reboot. [Immediate] CPU runs the adjusted CPU base clock immediately.
CPU PCIE PLL [Auto]
▶ Selects a PLL (Phase Lock Loop) mode for CPU PCIe. This item appears when the
installed CPU supports this setting. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [LC PLL] Enables LC PLL for normal usage. [SB PLL] Enables SB PLL for extreme overclocking.
Filter PLL [Auto]
▶ Enables or disables the filter PLL for CPU. This item appears when the installed CPU
supports this setting. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enabled] Provides wide range of base clock for overclocking when base clock
[Disabled] Provides normal range of base clock.
CPU Ratio Mode [Auto]
▶ Selects the CPU Ratio operating mode. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Fixed Mode] Fixes the CPU ratio. [Dynamic Mode] CPU ratio will be changed dynamically according to the CPU
Adjust 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.
Adjusted CPU Frequency
▶ Shows the adjusted CPU frequency. Read-only.
EIST [Enabled]
▶ Enables or disables the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology. [Enabled] Enables the EIST to adjust CPU voltage and core frequency
[Disabled] Disables EIST.
Intel 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
[Disabled] Disables this function.
strap be set to higher value.
loading.
dynamically. It can decrease average power consumption and average heat production.
rated specifications when system request the highest performance state.
Chapter 3
3-17 BIOS Setup
Enhanced Turbo [Auto]
▶ Enables or disables Enhanced Turbo function for all CPU cores to boost CPU
performance. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enabled] All CPU cores would be increased to maximum turbo ratio. [Disabled] Disables this function.
OC Genie Function Control [By Onboard Button]
▶ Enables the OC Genie function by virtual button in BIOS or physical button on
motherboard. Enabling OC Genie function can automatically overclock the system with MSI optimized overclocking profile.
[By BIOS Options] OC Genie function is enabled by clicking the virtual OC Genie
[By Onboard Button]OC Genie function is enabled by pressing the physical OC Genie button on the motherboard.
OC Genie Switch [Gear1]
▶ Selects a kind of overclocking profiles for OC Genie Function. This item appears when
"OC Genie Function Control" sets to [By BIOS Options]. [Gear1] Enables Gear1 overclocking profile for overclocking. [Gear2] Enables Gear2 overclocking profile for extreme overclocking.
We recommend that you do not to make any modification in OC menu and do not to
load defaults after enabling the OC Genie function. Updating BIOS or clearing CMOS is not allowed in OC Genie mode, and it may
cause OC Genie function fail or other effect.
Adjust Ring Ratio [Auto]
▶ Sets the ring ratio. The valid value range depends on the installed CPU.
Adjusted Ring Frequency
Chapter 3
Shows the adjusted Ring frequency. Read-only.
Adjust GT Ratio [Auto]
▶ Sets the integrated graphics ratio. The valid value range depends on the installed
CPU.
Adjusted GT Frequency
▶ Shows the adjusted integrated graphics frequency. Read-only.
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.
DRAM Frequency [Auto]
▶ Sets the DRAM frequency. Please note the overclocking behavior is not guaranteed.
Adjusted DRAM Frequency
▶ Shows the adjusted DRAM frequency. Read-only.
button at the top left corner of BIOS setup screen.
Important
3-18BIOS Setup
Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P) [Disabled]
▶ X.M.P. (Extreme Memory Profile) is the overclocking technology by memory module.
This item will be available when you install the memory modules that support X.M.P. technology.
[Disabled] Disables this function. [Profile 1] Uses profile1 over-clocking settings of installed XMP memory module. [Profile 2] Uses profile2 over-clocking settings of installed XMP memory module.
DRAM Timing Mode [Auto]
▶ Selects the memory timing mode. [Auto] DRAM timings will be determined based on SPD (Serial Presence
[Link] Allows user to configure the DRAM timing manually for all memory
[UnLink] Allows user to configure the DRAM timing manually for respective
Advanced DRAM Configuration
▶ Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu will be activated after setting
[Link] or [Unlink] in “DRAM Timing Mode”. User can set the memory timing for each 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.)
DRAM Training Configuration
▶ Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. Enables or disables the various training ways of
DRAM. The system may become unstable or unbootable after changing these items in this sub-menu. 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.)
Memory Fast Boot [Auto]
▶ Enables or disables the initiation and training for memory every booting. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enabled] Memory will completely imitate the archive of first initiation and first
[Disabled] The memory will be initialed and trained every booting.
DigitALL Power
▶ Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. Controls the digital powers related to CPU
PWM.
CPU Phase Control [Auto]
Controls PWM phase proportionally to the CPU loading. If set to "Auto", BIOS will
optimize the CPU PWM phase automatically. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Disabled] Disables the PWM power phase switching feature.
Detect) of installed memory modules.
channel.
memory channel.
training. After that, the memory will not be initialed and trained when booting to accelerate the system booting time.
Chapter 3
3-19 BIOS Setup
Chapter 3
SVID Communication [Auto]
▶ Enables or disables SVID (Serial Voltage Identification) support. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enabled] PWM phase will be changed dynamically according to the CPU SVID
[Disabled] Disables SVID (Serial Voltage Identification) support.
VCCIN Voltage [Auto]
▶ Sets the CPU input voltage. The CPU input voltage is the CPU power source that is shared with components of the CPU.
Current VCCIN Voltage
▶ Shows current CPU VCCIN voltage. Read-only.
CPU Vdroop Offset Control [Auto]
Sets a percentage of offset voltage for CPU vdroop. If set to "Auto", BIOS will
configure this setting automatically. [Options: Auto, +12.5%, +25%, +37.5%, +50%,
+62.5%, +75%, +87.5%, +100%]
CPU 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.
CPU 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.
CPU Over Current Protection [Auto]
Sets the current limit for CPU over-current protection. If set to "Auto", BIOS will
configure this setting automatically. Higher percentage provides less protection and
may damage the system.
CPU 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.
CPU VRM Over Temperature Protection [Enabled]
Enables or disables the CPU VRM over-temperature protection. [Enabled] Sets the temperature limit on CPU VRM for over-temperature
[Disabled] Disables this function.
CPU Power Duty Control
Selects the method of VRM control for component's phase. [Thermal Balance] Control the VRM with thermal balance mode. [Current Balance] Control the VRM with current balance mode.
protection.
(Serial Voltage Identification).
3-20BIOS Setup
CPU Core Voltage Mode/ CPU Ring Voltage Mode/ CPU GT Voltage Mode [Auto]
▶ Selects the control modes for these voltages. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Adaptive Mode] Sets adaptive voltages automatically for optimizing the system
[Override Mode] Allows you to set these voltages manually.
CPU Core Voltage/ CPU Ring Voltage/ CPU GT Voltage [Auto]
▶ Sets these voltages. If set to "Auto", BIOS will set these voltages automatically or you
can set it manually.
CPU Core Voltage Offset Mode/ CPU Ring Voltage Offset Mode/ CPU GT Voltage
▶ Offset Mode/ CPU SA Voltage Offset Mode/ CPU IO Analog Voltage Offset Mode/ CPU IO Digital Voltage Offset Mode [Auto]
Selects the voltage offset modes. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [+] Allows you to set the positive offset voltage. [-] Allows you to set the negative offset voltage.
CPU Core Voltage Offset/ CPU Ring Voltage Offset/ CPU GT Voltage Offset/ CPU
▶ SA Voltage Offset/ CPU IO Analog Voltage Offset/ CPU IO Digital Voltage Offset [Auto]
Set the offset values for these voltages.
Current CPU Core Voltage/ Current CPU Ring Voltage/ Current CPU GT Voltage/
▶ Current CPU SA Voltage/ Current CPU IO Digital Voltage
Show the current voltages. Read-only.
Internal VR OVP OCP Protection [Auto]
▶ Enables or disables the over-voltage protection and over-current protection for CPU
internal VR (Voltage Regulator). [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enabled] Sets the voltage limit on the CPU internal VR for over-voltage protection
[Disabled] Disables this function for overclocking.
Internal VR Efficiency Management [Auto]
▶ Enables or disables the CPU internal VR efficiency management. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enabled] Enables the VR effciency management for power-saving control. [Disabled] Disables this function.
DRAM Voltage [Auto]
▶ Sets the memory voltage. If set to "Auto", BIOS will set memory voltage automatically
or you can set it manually.
Current DRAM Voltage
▶ Shows current memory voltage. Read only.
DDR_VREF_CA/ DDR_VREF_DQ_A/ DDR_VREF_DQ_B/ PCH 1.05 Voltage/ PCH
1.5 Voltage Set these voltages. If set to "Auto", BIOS will set these voltages automatically or you
can set it manually.
performance.
and over-current protection.
Chapter 3
3-21 BIOS Setup
Current PCH 1.05 Voltage
▶ Shows current PCH 1.05 voltage. Read only.
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 than needs
[Disabled] Disables this function and keeps the current BIOS settings.
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.
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].
CPU Features
▶ Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
Chapter 3
to load the default settings for new devices.
CPU Technology Support
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu shows what the key features
does the installed CPU support. Read only.
DIMM1~4 Memory SPD
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu displays the information of
installed memory. Read only.
Hyper-Threading Technology [Enabled]
The processor uses Hyper-Threading technology to increase transaction rates
and reduces end-user response times. 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. [Enable] Enables Intel Hyper-Threading technology. [Disabled] Disables this item if the system does not support HT function.
Active Processor Cores [All]
This item allows you to select the number of active processor cores.
Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]
Enables or disables the extended CPUID value. [Enabled] BIOS will limit the maximum CPUID input value to circumvent
[Disabled] Use the actual maximum CPUID input value.
boot problems with older operating system that do not support the processor with extended CPUID value.
3-22BIOS Setup
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]
Intel’s Execute Disable Bit functionality can prevent certain classes of malicious
“buffer overflow” attacks where worms attempt to execute code to damage the
system. It is recommended that keeps this item enabled always. [Enabled] Enables NO-Execution protection to prevent the malicious attacks
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Intel Virtualization Tech [Enabled]
▶ Enables or disables Intel Virtualization technology. [Enabled] Enables Intel Virtualization technology and allows a platform to run
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Hardware 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.
Adjacent 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.
CPU AES Instructions [Enabled]
Enables or disables the CPU AES (Advanced Encryption Standard-New
Instructions) support. This item appears when a CPU supports this function. [Enabled] Enables Intel AES support. [Disabled] Disables Intel AES support.
Intel 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.
Intel C-State [Auto]
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.
and worms.
multiple operating systems in independent partitions. The system can function as multiple systems virtually.
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.
Chapter 3
3-23 BIOS Setup
Chapter 3
C1E 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.
Package C State limit [Auto]
This item allows you to select a CPU C-state mode for power-saving when system
is idle. This item appears when "Intel C-State" is enabled. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [C0~C7s] The power-saving level from high to low is C7s, C7, C6, C3, C2,
[No limit] No c-state limit for CPU.
LakeTiny Feature [Disabled]
Enables or disables Intel Lake Tiny feature with iRST for SSD. This item appears
when a installed CPU supports this function and "Intel C-State" is enabled. [Enabled] Enhance the dynamic IO load adjusted performance for accelerating
[Disabled] Disables this feature.
Note: The following items will appear when "Intel Turbo Boost " is enabled.
Long Duration Power Limit (W) [Auto]
Sets the long duration TDP power limit for CPU in Turbo Boost mode.
Long Duration Maintained (s) [Auto]
Sets the maintaining time for "Long duration power Limit(W)".
Short Duration Power Limit (W) [Auto]
Sets the short duration TDP power limit for CPU in Turbo Boost mode.
CPU Current limit (A) [Auto]
Sets maximum current limit of CPU package in Turbo Boost mode. When the
current is over the specified limit value, the CPU will automatically reduce the core
frequency for reducing the current.
1/2/3/4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]
These items only appear when a CPU that support this function is installed. These
items allow you to set the CPU ratios for different number of active cores in turbo
boost mode. These items appear when the installed processor supports this
function.
power-saving in halt state.
then C0.
the SSD speed.
3-24BIOS Setup

M-FLASH

Important
M-Flash funcion allows you to update BIOS from USB flash disk (FAT32/ NTFS format only), or allows the system to boot from the BIOS file inside USB flash disk (FAT/ FAT32 format only).
BIOS Boot Function [Disabled]
▶ Enables or disables the system to boot form USB flash disk with BIOS file. [Enabled] Enables the system to boot from the BIOS within USB flash disk. [Disabled] Enables the system to boot from the BIOS within ROM on motherboard. *This may cause system unstable, MSI recommend it only for power users.
Select one file to boot
▶ Selects a BIOS file in the USB flash disk (NTFS/ FAT 32 format) to boot the system.
This item will selectable when the “BIOS Boot function” is enabled.
Save BIOS to storage
▶ Saves the current BIOS file to the USB flash disk. The USB flash disk drive should be
in FAT32 format.
Update BIOS
▶ Selects a BIOS file in the USB flash disk (NTFS/ FAT 32 format) to update the BIOS.
Select one file to update BIOS
Selects a BIOS file in the USB flash disk (NTFS/ FAT 32 format) to update the
BIOS. The system will reboot after updating.
Select one file to update BIOS and ME
Selects a BIOS file, includes the ME management settings, in the USB flash disk
(NTFS/ FAT 32 format) to update the BIOS and ME. The system will reboot after
updating.
Chapter 3
3-25 BIOS Setup

OC PROFILE

Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
▶ Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6 management. Press <Enter> to enter the sub-
menu.
Chapter 3
OC Profile Save to USB
▶ Saves OC profile to the USB flash disk drive. The USB flash disk should be FAT32
format only.
OC Profile Load from USB
▶ Loads OC profile from the USB flash disk drive. The USB flash disk should be FAT32
format only.
Set Name for Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
Names the current overclocking profile.
Save Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
Saves the current overclocking profile.
Load Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
Loads the current overclocking profile.
Clear Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
Clears the current overclocking profile.
3-26BIOS Setup

HARDWARE MONITOR

Temperature &
Speed
graphic display
Current Temperature & Speed information
▶ Shows the current CPU temperature, system temperature and fans' speeds.
Temperature & Speed graphic display
▶ The red graph shows the minimum and maximum temperatures that be set on the
“Fan control field”. The yellow graph shows current CPU/ system temperature. The green shows current CPU/ System fan speed.
Fan control field
▶ This motherboard provides a fan speed control feature call “Smart Fan Control”.
Smart Fan Control automatically controls fan speed depending on the current CPU temperature and to keep it with a specific operating speed. When the current CPU temperature is over the maximum temperature, the CPU/ system fan will run at the maximum speed. When the current CPU temperature is under the minimum temperature, the CPU/ system fan will run at the minimum speed. In this field, you can set the CPU and system fans’ speeds and target temperatures.
Current
Temperature & Speed
information
Fan
control 󰘰eld
Voltage display
Chapter 3
3-27 BIOS Setup
Please follow the description below to set the temperatures and fan speeds.
a b
c
a - Selects a fan you want to specify the speed.
■ b - Checks this item to activate the following items for changing default values.
■ c - Slides the Min and Max tabs to set the minimum and maximum
■ temperatures.
d - Slides the arrow symbol to set the minimum fan speed in percentage.
■ e - Slides the arrow symbol to set the maximum fan speed in percentage.
■ f - Click the "Default" button to restore the default values. Or click the
■ "Cancel" button to abandon all changes and restore to the previous values.
Important
The minimum values of temperature and speed can not be set larger then the
maximum values. The changed settings will become effective after you save the changes and reboot
the system.
Voltage display
▶ Shows the current voltages of CPU, system and memory.
d e
f
Chapter 3
3-28BIOS Setup
Appendix A

Realtek Audio

The Realtek audio provides 10-channel DAC that simultaneously supports 7.1 sound playback and 2 channels of independent stereo sound output (multiple streaming) through the Front-Out-Left and Front-Out-Right channels.
Software Con󰘰guration
Appendix A
After installing the audio driver (see Chapter 1 - Driver and Utilities), the “Realtek HD Audio Manager” icon will appear at the noti󰘰cation area (lower right of the screen). You may double click the icon and the GUI will pop up accordingly.
It is also available to enable the audio driver by clicking the Realtek HD Audio Manager from the Control Panel.

Software panel overview

The following 󰘰gure describes the function of the Realtek HD Audio Manager panel.
double click the icon
Device Selection
Volume Adjustment
Application Enhancement
Jack status panel
A-2Realtek Audio
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