Nvidia NFORCE 680I User Manual

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Before You Begin… x

Parts NOT in the Kit ..............................................................................................x

Intentions of the Kit ..............................................................................................xi

Introduction to the BFG NVIDIA

nForce®680i LT SLITMMotherboard 1

Features ..............................................................................................................1

Extreme Overclocking ....................................................................................1

Guaranteed FSB speeds ................................................................................1

High-speed Memory ......................................................................................1

Comprehensive Overclocking Tools..................................................................2

NVIDIA nTuneTMUtility ..............................................................................2

NV BIOS..................................................................................................2

Designed for NVIDIA SLI Technology ................................................................2

True 2 x16 PCI Express®SLI Support ..............................................................2

NVIDIA SLI-Ready Memory..............................................................................2

NVIDIA SLI Certified Components ....................................................................3

Dual DDR2 Memory Architecture ....................................................................3

NVIDIA MediaShieldTMStorage ........................................................................3

Multiple Disk Setup..................................................................................3

DiskAlert System ....................................................................................3

RAID Morphing ........................................................................................3

Bootable Multidisk Array ..........................................................................4

Networking with NVIDIA nForce ................................................................4

iii

Table of Contents

NVIDIA Native Gigabit Ethernet........................................................................4

NVIDIA FirstPacketTMtechnology ......................................................................4

TCP/IP Acceleration........................................................................................4

High Definition Audio (HDA) ............................................................................4

USB 2.0 ........................................................................................................4

Motherboard Specifications ..................................................................................5

Unpacking and Parts Descriptions 7

Unpacking............................................................................................................7

Equipment ..........................................................................................................7

BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard ........................................................8

Hardware Installation 11

Safety Instructions..............................................................................................11

Preparing the Motherboard ................................................................................12

Installing the CPU ........................................................................................12

Installing the CPU Fan ..................................................................................13

Installing Memory DIMMs ............................................................................13

Installing the Motherboard ..................................................................................14

Installing the I/O Shield ................................................................................14

Securing the Motherboard into the Chassis....................................................14

Connecting Cables and Setting Switches ............................................................15

Power Connections ......................................................................................16

24-pin ATX Power (PWR1)......................................................................16

8-pin ATX 12V Power (PWR2) ................................................................17

Auxiliary Power for Graphics (PWR3) ......................................................17

Connecting IDE Hard Disk Drives ..................................................................18

Connecting Serial ATA Cables ......................................................................18

Connecting Internal Headers ........................................................................18

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Front Panel Header ......................................................................................18

IEEE 1394a (FireWire) ..................................................................................19

USB Headers (Universal Serial Bus) ....................................................................20

Front Panel Audio ..............................................................................................21

Fan Connections ................................................................................................22

Serial (COM) ......................................................................................................23

FDD Connector ..................................................................................................23

IDE Connector ....................................................................................................23

Serial ATA II Connectors......................................................................................23

Expansion Slots..................................................................................................24

PCI Slots......................................................................................................25

PCI Express x1 Slot ......................................................................................25

PCI Express x16 Slots ..................................................................................25

Clear CMOS Jumper: CLR_CMOS ................................................................25

Configuring the BIOS 27

Enter BIOS Setup................................................................................................28

Main Menu ........................................................................................................28

Standard CMOS Features Menu ..........................................................................31

Date and Time ............................................................................................32

IDE Channel and SATA Channel ....................................................................32

Drive A ........................................................................................................34

Halt On........................................................................................................34

Memory ......................................................................................................35

Advanced BIOS Features ....................................................................................36

Removable Device Priority ............................................................................37

Hard Disk Boot Priority..................................................................................37

Network Boot Priority....................................................................................37

CPU Internal Cache ......................................................................................37

Quick Power On Self Test..............................................................................38

First/Second/Third Boot Device ....................................................................38

Boot Other Device ........................................................................................38

Boot Up NumLock Status..............................................................................38

Security Option ............................................................................................39

APIC Mode ..................................................................................................39

MPS Version Control For OS..........................................................................39

Full Screen LOGO Show ..............................................................................39

Advanced Chipset Features ................................................................................40

System Clocks ..................................................................................................41

Frequency Settings ................................................................................42

HT Multiplier..........................................................................................43

Spread Spectrum ..................................................................................43

FSB & Memory Config ..........................................................................44

CPU Configuration ........................................................................................48

System Voltages ..........................................................................................49

NVMEM Memory Test ..................................................................................51

Load Timing/Voltage Set ..............................................................................51

Save Timing/Voltage Set ..............................................................................52

System BIOS Cacheable ..............................................................................52

HPET Function ............................................................................................52

NVIDIA GPU Ex ............................................................................................52

Integrated Peripherals Menu ..............................................................................53

IDE Function Setup ......................................................................................54

RAID Config ................................................................................................55

USB Config ..................................................................................................55

MAC Config ................................................................................................56

IEEE1394 controller......................................................................................56

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

HD Audio ....................................................................................................56

IDE HDD Block Mode....................................................................................56

Onboard FDC Controller................................................................................56

Onboard Serial Port 1 ..................................................................................56

Power Management Setup Menu ........................................................................57

ACPI Function ..............................................................................................57

ACPI Suspend Type ......................................................................................57

Soft-Off by PBNT..........................................................................................58

WOL(PME#) From Soft-Off ............................................................................58

Power On by Alarm ......................................................................................58

POWER ON Function ....................................................................................58

PnP/PCI Configuration Menu ..............................................................................59

Init Display First ..........................................................................................60

Reset Configuration Data ..............................................................................60

Resources Controlled By ..............................................................................60

IRQ Resources ............................................................................................61

PCI/VGA Palette Snoop ................................................................................61

Maximum Payload Size ................................................................................61

System Monitor Menu ........................................................................................62

Dynamic Fan Control ....................................................................................63

Software Installation 65

Windows®XP Drivers Install ................................................................................66

Support 69

vii

viii

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Figure 1. BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Layout..........................................9

Figure 2. Chassis Backpanel Connectors ..................................................................10

Figure 3. PWR1 Motherboard Connector ..................................................................16

Figure 4. Expansion Slots ........................................................................................25

Figure 5. BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Menu ..........................................................29

Figure 6. Standard CMOS Features Menu ................................................................31

Figure 7. Advanced BIOS Features Menu ..................................................................36

Figure 8. Advanced Chipset Features ........................................................................40

Figure 9. System Clocks Menu ................................................................................41

Figure 10. FSB & Memory Config Menu ......................................................................44

Figure 11. CPU Configuration Menu ............................................................................48

Figure 12. System Voltages Menu ..............................................................................49

Figure 13. Integrated Peripherals Menu ......................................................................53

Figure 14. Power Management Setup Menu................................................................57

Figure 15. PnP/PCI Configuration Menu ............................................................................59

Figure 16. System Monitor Menu................................................................................62

List of Figures

Before You Begin…

Parts NOT in the Kit

This kit contains all the hardware necessary to install and connect your new BFG NVIDIA®nForce®680i LT SLI motherboard. However, it does not contain the following items that must be purchased separately to make the motherboard functional.

• Intel®Socket 775 Processor: Intel®Core™ 2 Extreme (dual and quad core), Core™ 2 Quad, Core™2 Duo, Pentium

EE, Pentium®D, Pentium®4, and Celeron®D Socket 775 processors

• Cooling Fan for the Processor

• System Memory: Supports dual channel DDR2 533/667/800, and up to 800 MHz SLI-Ready Memory. Supports up to 8 GB/s DDR2 memory with a 64-bit operating system.

• PCI Express®Graphics Card: This motherboard is capable of using the NVIDIA SLITMtechnology. To utilize this technology requires two SLI-capable graphics cards of the same make and model, for example two of the BFG NVIDIA GeForce® 8800 GTX OCTM768MB PCIe. When ordering a graphics card, be sure it is a PCI Express card. The kit does contain the SLI connector used to connect the two graphics cards.

See Installing Graphics Cards in an

SLI Configuration located on the CD in the .pdf entitled “Using the NVIDIA Software”.

• PCI Express Compliant Power Supply: The power supply requirement is dependent upon the power and the number of the GPUs you install. If you are going to SLI two graphics cards, you are going to require more power. As a rule, for one GPU you need a minimum of a 300W power supply. If you have two GPUs in an SLI configuration, you will need a minimum of a 500W power supply. To calculate the power you are going to require for your specific configuration, go to www.slizone.com.

These instructions tell you how to install each of the parts listed so you can have a functioning motherboard. As you go through the installation instructions, it is assumed that the necessary parts have been purchased.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Intentions of the Kit

This kit provides you with the motherboard and all connecting cables necessary to install the motherboard into a PC chassis. If you are

building

a PC, you will use most of the

cables provided in the kit. If however, you are

replacing

a motherboard, you will not need

many of the cables.

When

replacing

a motherboard in a PC chassis, you will need to reinstall an operating

system even though the current drives have an operating system.

Introduction to the

BFG NVIDIA nForce

680i LT SLI Motherboard

Thank you for buying the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI motherboard. This motherboard offers the tools and performance PC gaming user’s demand. When combined with two SLI-Ready BFG NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards, you get innovative NVIDIA SLI Technology for enhanced system performance.

Features

Extreme Overclocking

Unleash the underlying hardware. With comprehensive overclocking tools to push the limits on front side bus (FSB) speed and support for higher memory speeds, the NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI MCPs were designed for overclocking.

Guaranteed FSB Speeds

Reach FSB speeds of 1333MHz with a CPU that supports this specification.

High-speed Memory

This board supports high-speed SLI-Ready memory up to DDR2-800 to keep pace with overclocked system components.

Comprehensive Overclocking Tools

Award-winning NVIDIA overclocking tools provide a complete kit of tools giving everyone, from the most veteran enthusiast to the novice overclocker, the ability to unleash the hardware in their PC.

NVIDIA nTune™Utility

NVIDIA nTune is a Windows®-based utility that has added access to more settings. Adjust CPU and memory speeds without rebooting. You can also access most BIOS settings from inside Windows without having to go into the BIOS. Save and automatically load profiles for each application you run.

NV BIOS

NV BIOS delivers easy-to-use tuning to let you have full control over your hardware including processor voltage tables and memory drive strengths.

Designed for NVIDIA SLI Technology

NVIDIA SLI technology is a revolutionary platform innovation that allows users to intelligently scale graphics performance by combining multiple NVIDIA graphics solutions in a single system with an NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI MCP.

True 2 x16 PCI Express SLI Support

Two full-bandwidth, 16-lane PCI Express links ensure maximum graphics performance for next-generation GPUs and games. True 2 x16 PCI Express SLI Support offers twice the PCI Express bandwidth of x8 SLI solutions.

NVIDIA SLI-Ready Memory

NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI MCP automatically increases bandwidth when select SLI Certified memory modules are detected.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

NVIDIA SLI Certified Components

Look for other components including NVIDIA GeForce GPUs and system memory that have been certified by NVIDIA to deliver unmatched performance with the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI motherboard. For more information on SLI Certified components, visit www

.slizone.com\nForce.

Dual DDR2 Memory Architecture

A state-of-the-art dual DDR2 memory controller allows high bandwidth and low latency data access to the CPU and GPU. Ensures data and information are relayed through the system as quickly as possible for incredible performance.

NVIDIA MediaShield™Storage

NVIDIA MediaShield is a suite of features that safeguards your most important digital media assets; always reliable, scalable, and accessible. MediaShield includes RAID and SATA drive support.

Multiple Disk Setup

Through a simple wizard-based interface, you can effortlessly set up your drives for better data protection, faster disk access or maximum storage capacity. MediaShield automatically selects RAID 0, 1, 0+1 or 5 configurations according to your needs. Advanced users can access RAID options directly.

DiskAlert System

In the event of a disk failure, MediaShield users see an image that highlights which disk has failed to make it easier to identify, replace, and recover.

RAID Morphing

MediaShield allows users to change their current RAID set-up to another configuration in a one-step process called morphing. This eliminates the need to back up data and follow multiple steps in the process.

Introduction

Bootable Multidisk Array

MediaShield storage fully supports the use of multi-disk array for loading the operating system at power-up.

Networking with NVIDIA nForce

NVIDIA networking delivers the highest network throughput at the lowest CPU utilization. The manageable and stable NVIDIA networking solution results in better networking management and a lower total cost of ownership. Only NVIDIA integrates this level of networking features to allow you to take your online experience to the next level.

NVIDIA Native Gigabit Ethernet

The industry’s fastest Gigabit Ethernet performance eliminates network bottlenecks and improves overall system efficiency and performance.

NVIDIA FirstPacket™Technology

Be the ‘King of Ping’ with NVIDIA FirstPacket technology. Get the crystal-clear phone conversations and online gaming performance you expect. NVIDIA FirstPacket technology assures your game data, VoIP conversations, and large file transfers are delivered according to preferences set by you in an intuitive wizard.

TCP/IP Acceleration

TCP/IP Acceleration delivers the highest system performance by offloading CPU-intensive packet filtering tasks in hardware, providing users with a PC networking environment that is faster.

High Definition Audio (HDA)

High definition audio brings consumer electronics quality sound to the PC delivering high quality sound from multiple channels. Using HDA, systems can deliver 192 kHz/32-bit quality for eight channels, supporting new audio formats.

USB 2.0

USB 2.0 is standard plug-and-play interface that provides easy-to-use connectivity for USB devices.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Motherboard Specifications

• Size

ATX form factor of 12 inch x 9.6 inch

• Processor support

Supports Intel Core 2 Extreme (dual and quad core), Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Duo, Pentium EE, Pentium D, Pentium 4, and Celeron D Socket 775 processors

• Operating systems

Supports Windows XP 32bit/64bit and Windows Vista

32bit/64bit

• Contains NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI MCP and SPP

• System Memory support

Supports dual channel JEDEC DDR2-800 and SLI-Ready memory up to 800 MHz Supports up to 8 GB/s DDR2 memories

• USB 2.0 Ports

➢

Supports hot plug

➢

Eight USB 2.0 ports (four rear panel ports, four onboard USB headers)

➢

Supports wake-up from S1 and S3 mode

➢

Supports USB 2.0 protocol up to 480 Mbps transmission rate

• Onboard Serial ATA II

➢

300MBps data transfer rate

➢

Six Serial ATA II connectors

➢

NVIDIA MediaShield RAID with support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD

➢

Supports hot plug and NCQ (Native Command Queuing)

• Onboard LAN

➢

Single LAN interface built-in onboard

➢

Supports 10/100/1000 Mbit/sec Ethernet

Introduction

• Onboard 1394a

➢

Supports hot plug

➢

Two 1394a ports (one rear panel port, one onboard header) with rate of transmission at 400 Mbps

• Onboard Audio

➢

Azalia High-Definition audio

➢

Supports 8-channel audio

➢

Supports S/PDIF output

➢

Supports Jack-Sensing function

• Dual PCI Express x16 Support

➢

Supports 4 GB/s (8 GB/s concurrent) bandwidth

➢

Low power consumption and power management features

• Green Function

➢

Supports ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface)

➢

Supports S0 (normal), S1 (power on suspend), S3 (suspend to RAM), S4 (Suspend to disk - depends on OS), and S5 (shutdown)

• Expansion Slots

➢

Two PCI slots

➢

Two PCI Express x1 slots

➢

Two PCI Express x16 graphics slots

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Unpacking and

Parts Descriptions

Unpacking

The BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI motherboard comes with all the necessary cables for adding a motherboard to a new chassis. If you are replacing a motherboard, you may not need many of these cables.

Be sure to inspect each piece of equipment shipped in the packing box. If anything is missing or damaged, contact the place of purchase.

All parts shipped in this kit are RoHS-compliant (lead-free) parts.

Equipment

The following equipment is included in the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI motherboard box.

(1) BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard. This PCI Express motherboard contains the NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI SPP and MCP and is SLI-ready.

(1) I/O Shield Installs in the chassis to block radio frequency transmissions, protect internet components from dust and foreign objects and aids in proper airflow within the chassis.

(1) SLI Connector Used to connect two graphic cards installed in the x16 PCI Express slots in an SLI configuration.

(1) Floppy Cable Used to attach a floppy drive to the motherboard.

BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

The BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI motherboard with the NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI SPP and MCP processors is a PCI Express, SLI-ready motherboard. Figure 1 shows the motherboard and Figure 2 shows the back panel connectors.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

(2) 2-Port SATA Power Cable

(1) USB 2.0 4-Port Cable Provides four additional USB ports to either the front or back panels of the chassis.

(4) SATA Signal Cable Used to support the Serial ATA protocol and each one connects a single drive to the motherboard.

(1) IDE-ATA 133 HDD Cable

(1) User’s Manual

(1) Driver CD

(1) BFG Tech Case Badge

1. CPU Socket

2. NVIDIA SPP with active fan

3. CPU fan header

4. DDR2 DIMM slots 0 - 3

5. 24-pin ATX motherboard power connector

6. IDE connector

7. Front panel header

8. AUX PEX Power connector

9. Serial-ATA II connectors

10. CHASSIS 2 fan header

11. NVIDIA MCP with active fan

12. Floppy drive connector

13. USB headers

14. CMOS battery

15. CHASSIS fan header

16. Serial header

17. Clear CMOS jumper

18. SYSTEM fanheader

19. Front panel audio header

20. SPDIF header

21. PCI slots

22. PCI Express x16 slots (SLI)

23. 1394a (FireWire) header

24. AUX fan header for NVIDIA MCP

25. PCI Express x1 slots

26. nForce fan header for NVIDIA SPP

27. Chassis back panel connectors (Figure 2)

28. 8-pin ATX 12V CPU power connector

29. VREG fan header

Unpacking and Parts Description

Figure 1. BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard Layout

21 22 21

24 26

11 101291314

567

Figure 2. Chassis Backpanel Connectors

1. PS/2 Mouse Port

2. PS/2 Keyboard Port

3. 1394a (Firewire) port

4. (2) USB 2.0 ports

5. SPDIF output

6. P

ort 2-Channel 4-Channel 6-Channel/8-Channel

Blue Line-In Line-In Line-In Green Line-Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Orange Center/Subwoofer Black Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Grey

7. (2) USB 2.0 Ports

8. LAN Port with LEDs to indicate status.

•

Yellow/Light Up/Blink = 10 Mbps/Link/Activity

•

Yellow and Green/Light Up/Blink = 100 Mbps/link/Activity

•

Green/Light Up/Blink = 1000 Mbps/Link/Activity

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Hardware Installation

This section will guide you through the installation of the motherboard. The topics covered in this section are:

• Preparing the motherboard

➢

Installing the CPU

➢

Installing the CPU fan

➢

Installing the memory DIMMs

• Installing the motherboard

• Connecting cables and setting switches

Safety Instructions

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury always follow basic safety precautions.

Remember to remove power from your computer by disconnecting the AC main source before removing or installing any equipment to/from the computer chassis.

Ground yourself by using either a grounded wrist strap or by touching a grounded metallic object such as the system chassis or power supply before handling components.

Preparing the Motherboard

The motherboard shipped in the box does not contain a CPU or memory. You need to purchase a CPU, a CPU fan assembly, and memory to complete this installation.

Installing the CPU

Be very careful when handling the CPU. Hold the processor only by the edges and do not touch the bottom of the processor.

Use the following procedure to install the CPU.

1. Remove the protective socket cover on the load plate which is used to protect the socket when there is no CPU installed.

2. Unhook the socket lever by pushing

down

and

away

from the socket.

3. Lift the load plate.

4. Remove the processor from its protective cover, making sure you hold it only by the edges. It is a good idea to save the cover so that whenever you remove the CPU, you have a safe place to store it.

5. Align the notches in the processor with the notches on the socket.

6. Lower the processor straight down into the socket with out tilting or sliding it into the socket.

NNoottee::

Make sure the CPU is fully seated and

level in the socket.

7. Close the load plate over the CPU and press down while you close and engage the socket lever.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Align notches with notches on the CPU

Installing the CPU Fan

There are many different fan types that can be used with this motherboard. Follow the instructions that came with your fan assembly. Be sure that the fan orientation is correct for your chassis type and your fan assembly.

Installing Memory DIMMs

Your new motherboard has four 1.8V 240-pin slots for DDR2 memory. These slots support 256 MB, 512 MB and 1 GB DDR2 technologies for x8 and x16 devices. They also support dual channel DDR2 memory technology up to 10.7GB/s. There must be at least one memory bank populated to ensure normal operation. Use the following the recommendations for installing memory.

• One DIMM: Install into slot 0. You can install the DIMM into any slot; however, slot 0

is preferred.

• Two DIMMs: Install into either slots 0 and 1 or 2 and 3. To take full advantage of dual-

channel memory, alternating slots should be populated. For example with two DIMMs, slots 0 and 1 should be used.

• Four DIMMS: Install into slots 0, 1, 2, and 3.

Use the following procedure to install memory DIMMs into the slots on the motherboard. Note that there is only one gap near the center of the DIMM slot. This slot matches the slot on the memory DIMM to ensure the component is installed properly.

1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the module clips outward.

2. Align the memory module to the DIMM slot, and insert the module vertically into the DIMM slot. The plastic clips at both sides of the DIMM slot automatically lock the DIMM into the connector.

Hardware Installation

CPU side

Card-edge side

DIMM Slot 0

DIMM Slot 2

DIMM Slot 1

DIMM Slot 3

Installing the Motherboard

The sequence of installing the motherboard into the chassis depends on the chassis you are using and if you are replacing an existing motherboard or working with an empty chassis. Determine if it would be easier to make all the connections prior to this step or to secure the motherboard and then make all the connections. Use the following procedure to install the I/O shield and secure the motherboard into the chassis.

Note: Be sure that the CPU fan assembly has enough clearance for the chassis covers to lock into place and for the expansion cards. Also make sure the CPU Fan assembly is aligned with the vents on the covers.

Installing the I/O Shield

The motherboard kit comes with an I/O shield that is used to block radio frequency transmissions, protects internal components from dust and foreign objects, and promotes correct airflow within the chassis.

Before installing the motherboard, install the I/O shield from the

inside

of the chassis. Press the I/O shield into place and make sure it fits securely. If the I/O shield does not fit into the chassis, you would need to obtain the proper size from the chassis supplier.

Securing the Motherboard into the Chassis

Most computer chassis have a base with mounting studs or spacers to allow the mother board to be secured to the chassis and help to prevent short circuits. If there are studs that do not align with a mounting hole on the motherboard, it is recommended that you remove these studs to prevent the possibility of a short circuit.

1. Carefully place the motherboard onto the studs/spacers located inside the chassis.

2. Align the mounting holes with the studs/spacers.

3. Align the connectors to the I/O shield.

4. Ensure that the fan assembly is aligned with the chassis vents according to the fan

assembly instruction.

5. Secure the motherboard with a minimum of eight-to-ten screws.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Connecting Cables and Setting Switches

This section takes you through all the connections and switch settings necessary on the motherboard. This will include:

• Power Connections

➢

24-pin ATX Power (PWR1)

➢

8-pin ATX 12V power (PWR2)

➢

Auxiliary power for graphics (PWR3)

• Internal Headers

➢

Front panel

➢

IEEE 1394a (FireWire)

➢

USB (Universal Serial Bus)

➢

Front Panel Audio

➢

Fan Connections

➢

Serial (COM)

• FDD Connector

• IDE Connector

• Serial ATA II Connectors

• Expansion Slots

• CMOS Jumper Settings

See Figure 1 on page 9 to locate the connectors and jumpers referenced in the following procedure.

Hardware Installation

Power Connections

This motherboard requires an ATX power supply. To support a PCI Express motherboard with the addition of dual graphics cards using NVIDIA SLI technology, you are going to need a minimum of a 500W power supply. Make sure you have enough power to cover all the expansion cards you will be installing. To determine what you power requirements are for your specific configuration, refer to www

.slizone.com.

24-pin ATX Power (PWR1)

PWR1 is the main power supply connector located along the edge of the board next to the DIMM slots. Make sure that the power supply cable and pins are properly aligned with the connector on the motherboard. Firmly plug the power supply cable into the connector and make sure it is secure.

Figure 3. PWR1 Motherboard Connector

Table 1. PWR1 Pin Assignments

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Connector Pin Signal Pin Signal

1 +3.3V 13 +3.3V 2 +3.3V 14 -12V 3 GND 15 GND 4 +5V 16 PS_ON 5 GND 17 GND 6 +5V 18 GND 7 GND 19 GND 8 PWROK 20 RSVD 9 +5V_AUX 21 +5V 10 +12V 22 +5V 11 +12V 23 +5V 12 +3.3V 24 GND

Card edge

PWR1 connector

Plug power cable from system power supply to PWR1

8-pin ATX 12V Power (PWR2)

PWR2 is the 8-pin ATX 12V power connector used to provide power to the CPU. Align the pins to the connector and press firmly until seated.

It is

strongly

recommended that you use an 8-pin ATX 12V power supply; however, if you have a four-pin power supply, plug the connector to pins 1, 2, 5, and 6 as shown.

Auxiliary Power for Graphics (PWR3)

The PWR3 connector is an auxiliary power connection for graphics cards. Exclusive power for the graphics card provides better graphics performance.

Hardware Installation

Back Panel connector edge

12V

GND

Connect a four-pin power plug to pins 1, 2, 5, and 6

Connecting Internal Headers

Front Panel Header

The front panel header on this motherboard is one connector used to connect the following four cables:

• PWRLED

Attach the front panel power LED cable to these two pins. The Power LED indicates the system’s status. When the system is in S0 status, the LED is on. When the system is in S1, S3, S4 or S5 status, the LED is off.

Note: The power LED cable in some chassis is a three pin connector with the pins installed in positions 1 and 3. If your chassis has a three pin connector, you will need to remove pin 3 and put it into position 2 or you can use a pair of scissors to cut out position 2. Most chassis come with a two pin connector.

• PWRSW

Attach the power button cable from the case to these two pins. Pressing the power button on the front panel turns the system on off rather than using the power supply button.

• HD_LED

Attach the hard disk drive indicator LED cable to these two pins. The HDD indicator LED indicates the activity status of the hard disks.

• RESET

Attach the Reset switch cable from the front panel of the case to these two pins. The system restarts when the RESET switch is pressed.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Connect

Blank

Hardware Installation

Table 2. Front Panel Header Pins

IEEE 1394a (FireWire)

An onboard IEEE 1394a header is available on the motherboard for future FireWire expansion and is compatible with chassis front panel IEEE 1394a connectors.

1. If you have an IEEE 1394a connector, connect it to the IEEE 1394a connector on the

motherboard.

Table 3. IEEE 1934a Connector Pins

Pin Signal In/Out Description

HD_LED

1 HD_PWR Out Hard disk LED pull-up to +5V

3 HDA# Out Hard disk active LED

PWRLED

2 HDR_BLNK_GRN Out Front panel green light

4 HDR_BLNK_YEL Out Front panel yellow light

RESET

5 GND — Ground

7 FP_RESET# In Reset switch

PWRSW

6 SWITCH_ON#

Power switch

8 GND — Ground

No Connect 9 No Connect — —

Empty 10 Empty — —

Connector Pin Signal

1 TPA+ 2 TPA3 GND 4 GND 5 TPB+ 6 TPB7 +12V 8 +12V 9 Empty 10 GND

IEEE 1394a Connector

USB Headers (Universal Serial Bus)

This motherboard contains four USB

2.0 ports that are exposed on the rear panel of the chassis. The motherboard also contains two 10-pin internal headers that can be used to connect an optional external bracket containing four more USB 2.0 ports.

1. Secure the bracket to either the

front or rear panel of your chassis (not all chassis are equipped with the front panel option).

2. Connect the two ends of the

cables to the USB 2.0 headers on the motherboard.

Table 4. USB 2.0 Header Pins

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Connector Pin Signal Pin Signal

1 5V_DUAL 2 5V_DUAL 3 D- 4 D5 D+ 6 D+ 7 GND 8 GND 9 Empty 10 No

Connect

USB 2.0 Header

Connector

Hardware Installation

Front Panel Audio

The audio connector supports HD audio standard and provides two kinds of audio output choices: The front panel audio and the rear panel audio. The front panel audio supports re-tasking function.

Table 5. Front Audio Connector

Connector Pin Signal

1 PORT1_L

2 AUD_GND

3 PORT1_R

4 PRECENCE_J

5 PORT2_R

6 SENSE1_RETURN

7 SENSE_SEND

8 Empty

9 PORT2_L

10 SENSE2_RETURN

Front Audio Connector

Fan Connections

There are two types of fan connections, the 3-pin system fan and the 4-pin CPU fan. The fan speed can be detected and viewed in the PC Health Status section of the CMOS Setup. Both types of fans are automatically turned off after the system enters S3, S4 and S5 mode.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Note that the CPU fan cable can be either a 3-pin

or a 4-pin connector. Connect a 3-pin connector

to pins 1, 2, and 3 on the motherboard connector.

Fan Connectors

3 2 1

GND

+12V

SENSE

CPU Fan Connector

4 3 2 1

GND SENSE

PWR CONTROL

Hardware Installation

Serial (COM)

The motherboard provides an additional serial header for your machine.

FDD Connector

The motherboard supports a standard 360K, 720K, 1.2M, 1.44m, and a 2.88M floppy disk drive (FDD).

IDE Connector

The IDE connector supports Ultra ATA 133/100/66 IDE hard disk drives.

1. Connect the blue connector (the cable end with a single connector) to the

motherboard.

2. Connect the black connector (the cable with the two closely spaced black and gray

connectors) to the Ultra ATA master device.

3. Connect the gray connector to a slave device.

If you install two hard disk drives, you must configure the second drive as a slave device by setting its jumper accordingly. Refer to the hard disk documentation for the jumper settings.

Note: If an ATA-66/100 disk drive and a disk drive using any other IDE transfer protocol are attached to the same cable, the maximum transfer rate between the drives may be reduced to that of the slowest drive.

Serial ATA II Connectors

The Serial ATA II connector is used to connect a Serial ATA II device to the motherboard. These connectors support the thin Serial ATA II cables for primary storage devices. The current Serial ATA II interface allows up to 300MB/s data transfer rate and is backward compatible with 150MB/s Serial ATA.

There are six serial ATA connectors on the motherboard that support RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 0+1 and JBOD configurations.

1. Connect the locking cable end to the motherboard connector.

2. Connect the end without the lock to the drive.

SATA 2 (top)

SATA 1 (bottom)

SATA 3

SATA 4

SATA 6 SATA 5

Expansion Slots

The BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI motherboard contains six expansion slots: Two PCI Express x16 slots, two PCI Express x1 slots and two PCI slots.

Figure 4. Expansion Slots

PCI Slots

The two PCI slots support many expansion cards such as a LAN card, USB card, SCSI card and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. When installing a card into the PCI slot, be sure that it is fully seated. Secure the card’s metal bracket to the chassis back panel with the screw used to hold the blank cover.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

1 - PCI Slots

2 - Secondary PCIe x16 slot

(GPU2/SLI)

3 - PCIe x1 slots

4 - Primary PCIe x16 slot (GPU1)

1 2 1 3 4 3

Hardware Installation

PCI Express x1 Slots

There are two PCI Express x1 slots that are designed to accommodate less bandwidth-intensive cards, such as a modem or LAN card. The PCIe x1 slot provides 250 MB/sec bandwidth.

PCI Express x16 Slots

There are two PCI Express x16 slots that are reserved for graphics cards. The bandwidth of the x16 slot is up to 4GB/sec (8GB/sec concurrent). The design of this motherboard supports dual PCI-Express graphics cards using NVIDIA’s SLI technology.

When installing a PCI Express x16 card, be sure the retention clip snaps and locks the card into place. If the card is not seated properly, it could cause a short across the pins. Secure the card’s metal bracket to the chassis back panel with the screw used to hold the blank cover.

Clear CMOS Jumper

The motherboard uses the CMOS RAM to store all of the set BIOS parameters. The CMOS can be cleared by removing the CMOS jumper.

Use the following procedure to clear CMOS:

1. Turn off the AC power supply and connect pins 1 and 2 together using the jumper cap.

2. Return the jumper setting to normal (pins 2 and 3).

3. Turn the AC power supply back on.

CMOS Jumper location

Configuring the BIOS

This section discusses how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

This section includes the following information:

• Enter BIOS Setup

• Main Menu

• Standard CMOS Features

• Advanced BIOS Features

• Advanced Chipset Features

• Integrated Peripherals

• Power Management Setup

• PnP/PCI Configurations

• System Monitor

Enter BIOS Setup

The BIOS is the communication bridge between hardware and software. Correctly setting the BIOS parameters is critical to maintain optimal system performance and stability.

Use the following procedure to verify/change BIOS settings.

1. Power on the computer.

2. Press the Del key when the following message briefly displays at the bottom of the

screen during the Power On Self Test (POST).

Press F1 to continue, DEL to enter Setup.

Pressing Del takes you to the Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility.

Note: It is

strongly

recommended that you do not change the default BIOS settings.

Changing some settings could damage your computer.

Main Menu

The main menu allows you to select from the list of setup functions and two exit choices. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the associated submenu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose. To go back to the previous menu, press Esc.

Note: Note that on the BIOS screens all data in white is for information only, data in yellow is changeable, data in blue is non-changeable, and data in a red box is

highlighted for selection.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Figure 5. BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Menu

• Standard CMOS Features

Use this menu to set up the basic system configuration.

• Advanced BIOS Features

Use this menu to set up the advanced system features and boot sequence.

• Advanced Chipset Features

Use this menu to optimize system performance and configure clocks, voltages, memory timings, and more.

• Integrated Peripherals

Use this menu to set up onboard peripherals such as IDE, RAID, USB, LAN, and MAC control.

• Power Management Setup

Use this menu to configure power management, power on, and sleep features.

• PnP/PCI Configurations

Use this menu to modify the system’s Plug-and-Play and PCI configurations.

Configuring the BIOS

• System Monitor

Use this menu to monitor the real-time system status of your PC, including temperature, voltages, and fan speed.

The following items on the CMOS Setup Utility main menu are commands rather than submenus:

• Load Defaults

Load default system settings.

• Set Password

Use this command to set, change, and disable the password used to access the BIOS menu.

• Save & Exit Setup

Use this command to save settings to CMOS and exit setup.

• Exit Without Saving

Use this command to abandon all setting changes and exit setup.

The following item on the CMOS Setup Utility main menu is a status indicator:

• SLI-Ready Memory (Status indication at bottom of screen)

This status indicator is displayed at the bottom of the BIOS screen and consists of the following remarks:

➢

Enabled: SLI-Ready memory is detected and enabled.

➢

Disabled: SLI-Ready memory is detected but disabled.

➢

Not Detected: SLI-Ready memory is not detected.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Standard CMOS Features Menu

The Standard CMOS Features menu is used to configure the standard CMOS information, such as the date, time, HDD model, and so on. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose. To go back to the previous menu, press Esc.

The information shown in Item Help corresponds to the option highlighted.

Figure 6. Standard CMOS Features Menu

Note: Note that all data in white is for information only, data in yellow is changeable, data in blue is non-changeable, and data in a red box is highlighted for selection.

Configuring the BIOS

Date and Time

Using the arrow keys, position the cursor over the month, day, and year. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through dates and times. Note that the weekday (Sun

through Sat) cannot be changed. This field changes to correspond to the date you enter. Note that the hour value is shown in a 24-hour clock format. Time is represented as

hour : minute : second.

IDE Channel and SATA Channel

Use these functions to detect and configure the individual IDE and SATA channels. Select a channel and press Enter to display the IDE/SATA sub-menu.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Press ENTER to display IDE Channel sub-menu

Press ENTER to display SATA Channel sub-menu

Press Enter to auto-detect IDE and SATA channels in the system. Once the channel is detected, the values for Capacity, Cylinder, Heads, Precomp, Landing Zone, and Sector are automatically filled in.

• None

There is no HDD installed or set.

• Auto

The system can auto-detect the hard disk when booting up.

• Manual

When you set the channel to [Manual] and change Access Mode to [CHS], you can then enter the number of cylinders, heads, Precomp, landing zone, and sector. You can manually enter the values or you can press Enter to display a window that tells you the min and max values.

The BIOS supports the following HDD Access Modes:

➢

CHS

For HDD less than 528 MB.

➢

LBA

For HDD greater than 528 MB and supporting LBA (Logical Block Addressing).

➢

Large

For HDD greater than 528 MB but not supporting LBA.

➢

Auto

Recommended mode.

Configuring the BIOS

Press ENTER to display sub-menu or enter

number manually

Drive A

The Drive A option allows you to select the kind of FDD to install.

Options are:

• None

• 360K, 5.25 in.

• 1.2M, 5.25 in.

• 720K, 3.5 in.

• 1.44M, 3.5 in.

• 2.88M, 3.5 in.

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose. Press Enter to accept the changes and return to the Standard CMOS Features menu.

Halt On

Halt On determines whether or not the computer stops if an error is detected during power on. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the Halt On sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in

the option you choose. Press Enter to accept the changes and return to the Standard CMOS Features menu.

• All Errors

Whenever the BIOS detects a nonfatal error, the system stops and prompts you.

• No Errors

System boot does not stop for any detected errors.

• All, But Keyboard

System boot does not stop for keyboard errors, but does stop for all other errors.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Press ENTER to display sub-menu

• All, But Diskette

The system boot does not stop for a diskette error but will stop for all other errors.

• All, But Disk/Key

The system boot does not stop for a keyboard or disk error, but will stop for all other errors.

Memory

These settings are

display-only values

that are determined by the BIOS POST (Power-On

Self Test).

• Base Memory

BIOS POST determines the amount of base (or conventional) memory installed in the system.

• Extended Memory

BIOS determines how much extended memory is present during the POST.

• Total Memory

This value represents the total memory of the system.

Configuring the BIOS

Advanced BIOS Features

Access the Advanced BIOS Features menu from the CMOS Utility Setup screen. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose. To go back to the previous menu, press Esc.

Note: The options that have associated sub-menus are designated by a which precedes the option. Press Enter to display the sub-menus.

Figure 7. Advanced BIOS Features Menu

Note: Note that all data in white is for information only, data in yellow is changeable, data in blue is non-changeable, and data in a red box is highlighted for selection.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Removable Device Priority

Use this option to select the priority for removable device startup. Press Enter to see the list of removable devices in your system. Use the  arrow keys to go to the various devices. Then use the + or – keys to move the device priority up or down in the list. To go back to the previous menu, press Esc.

Hard Disk Boot Priority

Use this option to select the priority for HDD startup. Press Enter to see the list of bootable devices in your system. Use the  arrow keys to go to the various devices. Then use the + or – keys to move the device priority up or down in the list. To go back to the previous menu, press Esc.

Network Boot Priority

Use this option to select the priority for network startup. Select Network Boot Priority and press Enter to view available networks. Use the  arrow keys to go to the various devices. Then use the + or – keys to move the device priority up or down in the list. To go back to the previous menu, press Esc.

CPU Internal Cache

Use this option to enable or disable the CPU internal cache. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the options in a sub-

menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose.

Configuring the BIOS

Use the + and – keys to move the priority of the

device within the list

Quick Power On Self Test

Enabling this option allows the system to skip certain test while booting, which reduces the time needed to boot the system. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to toggle between Enable and Disable.

First/Second/Third Boot Device

Use this option to set the priority sequence of the devices booted at power on. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose.

Boot Other Device

With the option set to Enable, the system boots from some other device if the first/second/third boot devices fail.

Boot Up NumLock Status

This option allows you to select the power-on state of NumLock. Select On to activate the keyboard NumLock when the system is started. Select Off to disable the

NumLock key.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Security Option

The Security Options allows you to require a password every time the system boots or only when you enter setup. Select Setup to require a password to gain access to the CMOS Setup screen. Select System to require a password to access the CMOS Setup screen and when the system boots.

APIC Mode

Use this function to enable or disable the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). If you disable this option, you also disable the MPS Version Control for OS option.

MPS Version Control For OS

Use this function to select the Multi-Processor Specification (MPS) version that BIOS passes to the operating system. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options.

Full Screen LOGO Show

This option allows you to enable or disable the display of the full-screen logo when the system boots. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to toggle between Enable and

Disable.

Configuring the BIOS

Advanced Chipset Features

Select Advanced Chipset Features from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter to display the functions of the Advanced Chipset Functions menu.

Figure 8. Advanced Chipset Features

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

System Clocks

Select System Clocks from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press Enter to display the System Clocks menu. From this menu, you are able to specify frequency settings, HT multipliers, and Spread Spectrum settings. Note that in Figure 9, all of the options are listed. On the actual BIOS screen, you will need to scroll down to see all the options.

Figure 9. System Clocks Menu

Note: Note that all data in white is for information only, data in yellow is changeable, data in blue is non-changeable, and data in a red box is highlighted for selection.

Configuring the BIOS

Frequency Settings

• CPU Freq, MHz

This value is set by the CPU Multiplier (value cannot be changed by the user).

• FSB Reference Clock, MHz

This value is set by the system (value cannot be changed by the user). To change the SLI-Ready memory, FSB memory, and memory timing, go to the FSB & Memory screen.

• CPU Multiplier

This value changes the CPU Frequency value depending on the value you choose. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options. The options are from 6 X through 60 X.

• PCIe x16_1, MHz

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the frequency options for the PCI Express Bus, Slot 1 (the black slot closest to the CPU). Note that as you go higher in value, PCIe Spread Spectrum(SPP) is disabled and cannot be changed from this status.

• PCIe x16_2, MHz

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the frequency options for the PCI Express Bus, Slot 3 (the black slot farthest from the CPU).

• SPP<—>MCP Ref Clock, MHz

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the frequency options for the reference clock between the SPP chip and the MCP chip.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

HT Multiplier

• nForce SPP — —> nForce MCP

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the HT multiplier options and set the link speed from the SPP chip to the MCP chip. Values are [1 x] through [5 x].

• nForce MCP <— — nForce SPP

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the HT multiplier options and set the link speed from the MCP chip to the SPP chip. Values are [1 x] through [5 x].

Spread Spectrum

• CPU Spread Spectrum

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the Spread Spectrum options for the CPU. Option values are [Disabled], [UP Spread], and [Center Spread].

• HT Spread Spectrum

Disabled.

• PCIe Spread Spectrum (SPP)

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the Spread Spectrum options for the SPP PCIe. Option values are [Disabled], [UP Spread], and [Center Spread]. This option reverts to Disabled and cannot be changed when the value for PCIe x16_1 exceeds 100MHz.

• PCIe Spread Spectrum(MCP)

Disabled.

• SATA Spread Spectrum

Disabled.

Configuring the BIOS

FSB & Memory Config

Select FSB & Memory Config from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press Enter to display the FSB & Memory Config menu. This menu provides the means to set

SLI-Ready memory, FSB memory, and memory timing.

Figure 10. FSB & Memory Config Menu

• SLI-Ready Memory

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the SLI-Ready Memory options. The options are:

➢

Disabled

➢

CPUOC 0%

➢

CPUOC 1%

➢

CPUOC 2%

➢

CPUOC 3%

➢

CPUOC 4%

➢

CPUOC 5%

➢

CPUOC MAX

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

When you select one of the CPUOC x% options, the FSB - Memory Clock Mode is set to Unlinked and cannot be changed until SLI-Ready Memory is set to Disable.

• FSB and Memory Clock Mode

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the FSB and Memory Clock Mode options. The options are:

➢

Auto

This is the optimal setting since it sets the FSB and memory speeds automatically.

➢

Linked

When Link is selected, FSB (QDR), MHz is changed to editable and the FSB speed can be entered manually. As the FSB speed is changed, CPU Freq, MHz changes proportionally.

➢

Unlinked

When Unlink is selected, FSB (QDR), MHz and MEM (DDR), MHz are changed to editable and the FSB and memory speeds can be entered manually. As the FSB speed is changed, CPU Freq, MHz changes proportionally.

• FSB (QDR), MHz

Use the + or – keys to scroll through new values for the CPU FSB frequency or type in a new value. Note that the Actual FSB (QDR) reflects the actual frequency that takes effect on a reboot.

• MEM (DDR), MHz

Use the + or – keys to scroll through new values for the memory frequency or type in a new value. Note that the Actual MEM (DDR) reflects the actual frequency that takes effect when the system reboots.

Configuring the BIOS

• Memory Timing Setting

Press Enter to display the Memory Timing Setting menu. Use this menu to set optimal timings or to manually enter timings.

➢

Optimal

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to select Optimal. Optimal prohibits you from manually setting any timing. All timing is set for optimal performance.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

➢

Expert

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to select Expert. When Expert is selected, all timing categories are enabled for manual input. Note that you should set the value to Optimal to use the manufacturers’ recommended values.

➢

tCL: CAS# latency (options are 1 through 6).

➢

tRDC: RAS#-to-CAS# Delay for Read/Write commands to the same bank (options are 1 through 7).

➢

tRP: Row Precharge time. This is the Precharge-to-Active or Auto-to-Refresh of the same bank (options are 1 through 7).

➢

tRAS: This is the minimum RAS# active time (options are 1 through 31).

➢

Command Per Clock: This is the command timing setting on a per clock unit basis (options are 1T and 2T).

➢

tRRD: RAS#-to-RAS# delay of different banks (options are 1 through 15).

➢

tRC: RAS#-to-RAS# or auto refresh time of the same bank (options are 1 through 31).

➢

tWR: The Write recovery time (options are 2 through 7).

➢

tWTR: This is the minimum write-to-read delay with the same chip selected (options are 1 through 10).

➢

tREF: This is the DRAM refresh rate (options are Auto, 7.8uS, and 3.9uS).

Configuring the BIOS

CPU Configuration

Select CPU Configuration from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press Enter to display the CPU Configuration menu.

Figure 11. CPU Configuration Menu

• Limit CPUID MaxVal

Use this function to enable the set limit of the CPUID MaxVal to 3. Set to Disable for Win XP.

• CPU Thermal Control

Use this function to enable or disable TM1 and TM2 support. The options are:

➢

Disable

Disable support for TM1 and TM2.

➢

TM1 Only

The CPU is thermally throttled by cutting active processor clock cycles.

➢

TM2 Only

Thermal throttling is achieved by reducing the CPU multiplier and CPU core voltage.

➢

TM1 & TM2

Enables support for both TM1 and TM2.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

• C1E Enhanced Halt State

Enabled, this function reduces the CPU power consumption when the CPU is idle. Idle occurs when the operating system issues a halt instruction.

• Execute Disable Bit

When this function is disabled, it forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).

• Virtualization Technology

When this function is enabled, it allows a VMM to utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by Intel Virtualization Technology.

• CPU Core 1

This function allows you to enable or disable CPU Core.

System Voltages

Select System Voltages from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press Enter to display the System Voltages menu.

Figure 12. System Voltages Menu

Configuring the BIOS

• CPU Core

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the voltages or select [Auto] to automatically set the voltage level for the CPU Core.

• Memory

This function defines the voltage level for the DRAM. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to select a voltage or select [Auto] to automatically set the voltage.

• nForce SPP

This function defines the core voltage level for the NVIDIA nForce SPP chip. Use the Page Up and Page DownDown keys to select a voltage (1.20V, 1.30V, 1.40V, 1.50V) or select [Auto] to automatically set the voltage.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

NVMEM Memory Test

This function defines whether you run the NVIDIA memory testing module during POST. The options are Fast, Medium, Slow, and Disable.

Load Timing/Voltage Set

This function loads the system voltages and timing settings that were defined in the System Voltages menu. You can set up to four profile settings using the Save timing/voltage set function.

There are four profile options that can be loaded. The default setting is Auto for all settings. Press Enter to see the options.

Configuring the BIOS

Save Timing/Voltage Set

This function saves the system voltages and timing settings that were defined in the System Voltages menu. There are four profile options that can be loaded. The default setting is Auto for all settings. Press Enter to see the options.

System BIOS Cacheable

This function allows you to enable or disable caching the system BIOS.

HPET Function

This function allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Even Timer (HPET). When Enabled, HPET is used as the timing hardware for multimedia and other time-sensitive application. When HPET is Disabled, the APIC timer is used.

NVIDIA GPU Ex

To enable or disable this function you need to have the NVIDIA ForceWare®graphics driver with NVIDIA EX support. When enabled, the system uses the optimized NVIDIA EX graphics driver.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Integrated Peripherals Menu

Select Integrated Peripherals from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter to display the Integrated Peripherals menu.

Figure 13. Integrated Peripherals Menu

Configuring the BIOS

IDE Function Setup

Press Enter to display the IDE Function Setup menu.

• OnChip IDE Channel0

Use this function to enable or disable the onchip IDE Channel0. When disabled, the Primary Master/Slave functions are changed to Auto and cannot be changed.

• Primary Master/Slave PIO

When OnChip IDE Channel0 is set to [Enabled], you can select a mode for the primary Master and Slave PIO. Select from Auto, or Mode 1 through Mode 4.

• Primary Master/Slave UDMA

When OnChip IDE Channel0 is set to [Enabled], you can disable the primary Master and Slave UDMA or set it to [Auto].

• IDE DMA transfer access

Use this function to enable or disable IDE DMA transfer access.

• Serial-ATA Controller

This function allows you to enable specific SATA controllers, enable all controllers, or disable all controllers. The options available are [SATA-0], [SATA-0+1], [Enable All], and [Disabled].

• IDE Prefetch Mode

Use this function to enable or disable the IDE Prefetch mode.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

RAID Config

Press Enter to display the RAID Config menu.

• RAID Enable

Use this function to enable or disable RAID. When RAID is set to [Disabled], all SATA functions are changed to Disabled and cannot be changed.

• SATA x Primary/Secondary

When RAID Enable is set to [Enabled], you can enable or disable the various SATA functions.

USB Config

Press Enter to display the USB Config menu.

• OnChip USB

Use this function to enable specific versions of the USB or disable the onchip USB. When the onchip USB is set to [Disabled], the keyboard and mouse support functions are set to Enabled and cannot be changed. Versions that can be selected are [V1.1+V2.0] or [V1.1].

• USB Keyboard/Mouse Support

Use these function to enable or disable the onchip WSB support of the keyboard and/or mouse.

Configuring the BIOS

MAC Config

Press Enter to display the MAC Config menu.

• MACO LAN

Use this function to set the MAC0 LAN to Auto or disable its function.

IEEE1394 controller

This function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to enable or disable the IEEE 1394a (FireWire) interface.

HD Audio

This function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to enable or disable the hard disk audio function.

IDE HDD Block Mode

Using this function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows your IDE hard drive needs to support block mode. Select [Enabled] to automatically detect the optimal number of block read/writes per sector the drive can support. Select [Disabled] if your drive does not support block mode.

Onboard FDC Controller

This function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to enable or disable the onboard FDC controller function.

Onboard Serial Port 1

This function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to select the onboard serial port 1 function. Options are [3F8/IRQ4], [2E8/IRQ3], [3E8/IRQ4], [Auto], and

[Disabled].

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Power Management Setup Menu

Select Power Management Setup from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter to display the Power Management Setup menu.

Figure 14. Power Management Setup Menu

ACPI Function

This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to enable or disable the ACPI function.

ACPI Suspend Type

This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to select an ACPI Suspend Type. Types to select from are [S1&S3], [S1(POS)], and [S3(STR)].

Configuring the BIOS

Soft-Off by PBNT

This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to set Soft-Off by PBNT to [Instant-Off] or [Delay 4 Sec].

WOL(PME#) From Soft-Off

This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to enable or disable WOL(PME#) from soft-off.

Power On by Alarm

This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to enable or disable the Power-on by alarm function. Set to [Disable] to prevent power-on by alarm. When set to [Enable], you can manually put in the day of the month and the time of the alarm.

To enter a day or time, use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through numbers or enter the number using the keyboard number or the + and – keys.

POWER ON Function

This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to define the power-on function. Options for this function are:

• BUTTON ONLY

• Keyboard 98

• Password

When [Password] is selected, the KB Power ON Password function is enabled so that you must enter a password.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

• Hot Key Power On

When [Hot Key] is selected, the Hot key Power On function is enabled so that you must select a keyboard key as the hot key. To select a hot key use Ctrl+F1 though

Ctrl+F12.

• Mouse Left

• Mouse Right

• Any Key

PnP/PCI Configuration Menu

Select PnP/PCI Configuration from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter to display the PnP/PCI Configuration menu.

Figure 15. PnP/PCI Configuration Menu

Configuring the BIOS

Init Display First

This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to define if the initial display is in the PCI slot or in the PCI Express slot. Options are [PCI Slot] and [PCIEx].

Reset Configuration Data

This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to enable or disable the resetting of Extended System Configuration Data (ESCD) when you exit Setup. Set this to [Enabled] if you have installed a new add-on and the system reconfiguration has caused a serious conflict that prevents the OS from booting. The default setting is

[Disabled].

Resources Controlled By

This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to define if the BIOS can automatically configure all the boot and plug-and-play compatible devices or if you can manually select IRQ, DMA, and memory base address fields. Select [Auto(ESCD)] if you want the BIOS to automatically populate these fields. If you select [Manual] so you can assign the resources, IRQ Resources is enabled for input.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

IRQ Resources

To enable this field for input, set Resources Controlled By to [Manual]. With this field enabled, press Enter to see options.

Use Legacy ISA for devices compliant with the original PC AT Bus specification. Use PCI/ISA PnP for devices compliant with the plug-and-play standard, whether designed for PCI or ISA Bus architecture.

PCI/VGA Palette Snoop

This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to enable or disable the Palette Snoop function.

Maximum Payload Size

This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to set the maximum TLP payload size (in bytes) for the PCI Express devices. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through sizes or enter the number using the keyboard numbers or use the

+ and – keys to go up and down the list of sizes.

Configuring the BIOS

System Monitor Menu

Select System Monitor from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter to display the System Monitor menu.

Figure 16. System Monitor Menu

All of the values shown in Blue are dynamic and change as the speed and voltages of the various components change with system usage.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Dynamic Fan Control

Press Enter to display the Dynamic Fan Control menu.

Use this menu to control the speed of the various fans on the motherboard. Set CPU and Chassis fan speed to [SmartFan] when you want the speed of the fans automatically controlled based on temperature. To set the fan speed to a constant rate, select [Manual] and then enter the speed from 0% to 100%.

Set the desired speed for the MCP, SPP, and memory fans from 0% to 100%. The system defaults to 100%.

Configuring the BIOS

Software Installation

Note: It is important to remember that before installing the driver CD that is shipped in

the kit, you need to load your operating system. The motherboard supports Windows XP 32bit and 64bit and is Vista-capable.

The kit comes with a CD that contains utility drivers and additional NVIDIA software.

The CD that has been shipped with your NVIDIA motherboard contains the following software and drivers:

• NVIDIA nForce drivers

• RealTek Audio drivers

• Microsoft DirectX®9.0C

• NVIDIA nTune

• Adobe Acrobat Reader

Windows XP Drivers Install

To install the motherboard drivers, first insert the included BFG Tech driver CD into your CD or DVD-ROM drive and wait for the splash screen and menu to load. If the splash screen and menu do not load, double click My Computer, right click on the optical drive the CD is in and click on AutoPlay.

1. From the BFG Tech driver CD menu, select Install Drivers, and then select Install

Motherboard Drivers.

2. Follow the on-screen prompts and make the appropriate selections. For a typical

installation, you will only need to click Next or Yes when prompted.

3. When prompted to install NVIDIA Network Access Manager, select Ye s if you intend

to use the advanced and robust networking features of this motherboard. For more information about NVIDIA Network Access Manager, check the Appendix in the back of this manual.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

4. If you chose to install NVIDIA Network Access Manager, follow the on-screen prompts

and make the appropriate selections. For a typical installation, you will only need to click Next when prompted.

Software Installation

5. When prompted to restart your computer select Yes, I want to restart my

computer now and click Finish.

Installing and Configuring the BFG NVIDIA nForce 680i LT SLI Motherboard

Support

This BFG Tech product carries a 3-year warranty with 24/7 technical support. If you need technical support in the US or Canada, please call us toll free at 1-866-BFG-FIXX (1-866-234-3499) or e-mail us at support@bfgfixx.com. If you need technical support outside of the US or Canada, you may call us at 1-630-637-2459 (toll charges apply) or e-mail us at support@bfgfixx.com.

© 2007 BFG Technologies,Inc. BFG Tech, OC and the BFG Technologies logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of BFG Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved. All other company and/or product names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. This manual is the intellectual property of BFG Technologies,Inc. Although the information in this manual may be changed or modified at any time, BFG Tech does not obligate itself to inform the user of these changes.

Notice

ALL NVIDIA DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS, REFERENCE BOARDS, FILES, DRAWINGS, DIAGNOSTICS, LISTS, AND OTHER DOCUMENTS (TOGETHER AND SEPARATELY, “MATERIALS”) ARE BEING PROVIDED “AS IS.” NVIDIA MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED,IMPLIED, STATUTORY, OR OTHERWISE WITH RESPECT TO THE MATERIALS, AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NONINFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

Information furnished is believed to be accurate and reliable. However,NVIDIA Corporation assumes no responsibility for the consequences of use of such information or for any infringement of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from its use. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent or patent rights of NVIDIA Corporation. Specifications mentioned in this publication are subject to change without notice. This publication supersedes and replaces all information previously supplied. NVIDIA Corporation products are not authorized for use as critical components in life support devices or systems without express written approval of NVIDIA Corporation.

Trademarks

NVIDIA, the NVIDIA logo, NVIDIA nForce, GeForce,NVIDIA Forceware, NVIDIA SLI, NVIDIA FirstPacket, NVIDIA DualNet, NVIDIA nTune, and MediaShield are trademarks or registered trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation. Other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

Microsoft, DirectX, Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries

Support

NOTES

© 2007 BFG Technologies, Inc. BFG Tech, OC and the BFG Technologies logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of BFG Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved. NVIDIA, the NVIDIA logo, NVIDIA nForce, GeForce, NVIDIA ForceWare, NVIDIA SLI-Ready logo, NVIDIA SLI, NVIDIA FirstPacket, NVIDIA nTune, and MediaShield are trademarks or registered trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation. Other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

This manual is the intellectual property of BFG Technologies, Inc and NVIDIA Corporation. Although the information in this manual may be changed or modified at any time, BFG Tech and NVIDIA do not obligate themselves to inform the user of these changes.

v1.0

Nvidia NFORCE 680I User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual