GA-X79-UP4

User's Manual
Rev. 1001
12ME-X79UP4-1001R
Motherboard
GA-X79-UP4
Motherboard
GA-X79-UP4
Jul. 27, 2012
Jul. 27, 2012
Copyright
© 2012 GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. All rights reserved.
The trademarks mentioned in this manual are legally registered to their respective owners.

Disclaimer
Information in this manual is protected by copyright laws and is the property of GIGABYTE.
Changes to the specifications and features in this manual may be made by GIGABYTE
without prior notice.

No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, translated, transmitted, or published in

any form or by any means without GIGABYTE's prior written permission.

Documentation Classifications
In order to assist in the use of this product, GIGABYTE provides the following types of docu-
mentations:
„„ For quick set-up of the product, read the Quick Installation Guide included with the product.
„„ For detailed product information, carefully read the User's Manual.

For product-related information, check on our website at: [Link]

Identifying Your Motherboard Revision

The revision number on your motherboard looks like this: "REV: X.X." For example, "REV:
1.0" means the revision of the motherboard is 1.0. Check your motherboard revision before
updating motherboard BIOS, drivers, or when looking for technical information.

Example:
 Table of Contents
Box Contents....................................................................................................................6
Optional Items..................................................................................................................6
GA-X79-UP4 Motherboard Layout...................................................................................7
GA-X79-UP4 Motherboard Block Diagram......................................................................8

Chapter 1 Hardware Installation......................................................................................9

1-1 Installation Precautions.................................................................................... 9
1-2 Product Specifications.................................................................................... 10
1-3 Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler............................................................... 13
1-3-1 Installing the CPU...................................................................................................13
1-3-2 Installing the CPU Cooler.......................................................................................15
1-4 Installing the Memory..................................................................................... 16
1-4-1 4 Channel Memory Configuration..........................................................................16
1-4-2 Installing a Memory.................................................................................................17
1-5 Installing an Expansion Card.......................................................................... 18
1-6 Setting up AMD CrossFireX™/NVIDIA SLI Configuration............................. 19
1-7 Back Panel Connectors.................................................................................. 20
1-8 Internal Connectors........................................................................................ 22

Chapter 2 BIOS Setup...................................................................................................31

2-1 Startup Screen................................................................................................ 32
2-2 The Main Menu............................................................................................... 33
2-3 M.I.T................................................................................................................ 35
2-4 System............................................................................................................ 46
2-5 BIOS Features................................................................................................ 47
2-6 Peripherals...................................................................................................... 50
2-7 Power Management........................................................................................ 53
2-8 Save & Exit..................................................................................................... 55

-4-
Chapter 3 Drivers Installation........................................................................................57
3-1 Installing Chipset Drivers................................................................................ 57
3-2 Application Software....................................................................................... 58
3-3 Technical Manuals.......................................................................................... 58
3-4 Contact........................................................................................................... 59
3-5 System............................................................................................................ 59
3-6 Download Center............................................................................................ 60
3-7 New Program.................................................................................................. 60

Chapter 4 Unique Features............................................................................................61

4-1 BIOS Update Utilities...................................................................................... 61
4-1-1 Updating the BIOS with the Q-Flash Utility............................................................61
4-1-2 Updating the BIOS with the @BIOS Utility............................................................ 64
4-2 EasyTune 6..................................................................................................... 65
4-3 Q-Share.......................................................................................................... 66

Chapter 5 Appendix.......................................................................................................67
5-1 Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)..................................................................... 67
5-1-1 Configuring Intel X79 SATA Controllers.................................................................67
5-1-2 Configuring Marvell 88SE9172 SATA Controllers..................................................73
5-1-3 Installing the SATA RAID/AHCI Driver and Operating System..............................79
5-2 Configuring Audio Input and Output............................................................... 86
5-2-1 Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio.................................................................. 86
5-2-2 Configuring S/PDIF Out......................................................................................... 88
5-2-3 Configuring Microphone Recording....................................................................... 89
5-2-4 Using the Sound Recorder.....................................................................................91
5-3 Troubleshooting.............................................................................................. 92
5-3-1 Frequently Asked Questions .................................................................................92
5-3-2 Troubleshooting Procedure....................................................................................93
5-3-3 Regulatory Statements.......................................................................................... 95

-5-
 Box Contents
55 GA-X79-UP4 motherboard
55 Motherboard driver disk
55 User's Manual
55 Quick Installation Guide
55 Four SATA 6Gb/s cables
55 I/O Shield
55 One 2-Way SLI bridge connector
55 One 3-Way SLI bridge connector
55 One 4-Way SLI bridge connector
55 One 2-Way CrossFireX bridge connector

The box contents above are for reference only and the actual items shall depend on the product package you
obtain. The box contents are subject to change without notice.

Optional Items
†† 2-port USB 2.0 bracket (Part No. 12CR1-1UB030-6*R)
†† eSATA bracket (Part No. 12CF1-3SATPW-4*R)
†† 3.5" Front Panel with 2 USB 3.0/2.0 ports (Part No. 12CR1-FPX582-0*R)
†† COM port cable (Part No. 12CF1-1CM001-3*R)

-6-
GA-X79-UP4 Motherboard Layout

DDR3_4
DDR3_8
DDR3_2

DDR3_6

DDR3_5
DDR3_1
DDR3_7

DDR3_3
KB_MS_USB
ATX_12V_2X4

SYS_FAN2
R_SPDIF SYS_FAN1

LGA2011
USB_ESATA2

USB_ESATA1 ATX

R_USB30

USB_LAN
Marvell
88SE9172

AUDIO CPU_FAN

PCIEX16_1
Fresco F_USB30
FL1009
PCIEX1_1
Fresco
Intel GbE LAN BAT M_BIOS B_BIOS FL1009

PCIEX8_1

CODEC
PCIEX1_2 SATA3

GA-X79-UP4 Intel® X79

1
0
SATA2
PCIEX16_2 Marvell
3
2

88SE9172
SATA2
5
4

PCI
Super I/O

GSATA3
iTE

Marvell
7
6

88SE9172
PCIEX8_2
SPDIF_O CLR_CMOS
GSATA3 9 8

F_AUDIO COMA SYS_FAN4 TPM F_USB3 F_USB2 F_USB1 F_PANEL SYS_FAN3

-7-
 GA-X79-UP4 Motherboard Block Diagram
1 PCI Express x16 2 PCI Express x8

1 PCI 1 PCI
PCI Express x16 Express x8 CPU CLK+/- (100 MHz)

LGA2011 DDR3 2133/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz

or CPU
4 Channel Memory
PCIe CLK
(100 MHz)

x16 x16
Switch DMI 2.0 PCIe CLK
x16 x8 (100 MHz)
PCI Express Bus
PCI Express Bus
2 USB 3.0/2.0 2 USB 3.0/2.0 x1 x1 x1
Marvell Marvell Marvell
PCIe CLK
Fresco Fresco 88SE9172 88SE9172 88SE9172
(100 MHz)
FL1009 FL1009
2 SATA 6Gb/s 2 SATA 6Gb/s 2 SATA 6Gb/s
x1 x1
Intel® X79 Dual BIOS
PCI Express Bus
2 PCI Express x1 LAN 2 SATA 6Gb/s
RJ45 4 SATA 3Gb/s
PCIe CLK
(100 MHz) Intel GbE LAN
14 USB 2.0/1.1
x1 x1 x1

PCI Express Bus

LPC
COM
PCI Bus Bus iTE
Super I/O

CODEC PS/2 KB/Mouse

PCI CLK
Surround Speaker Out
Center/Subwoofer
Speaker Out
Side Speaker Out
MIC
Line Out
Line In

S/PDIF Out

(33 MHz)

1 PCI

For detailed product information/limitation(s), refer to "1-2 Product Specifications."

-8-
Chapter 1 Hardware Installation
1-1 Installation Precautions
The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can become
damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). Prior to installation, carefully read the user's
manual and follow these procedures:
•• Prior to installation, make sure the chassis is suitable for the motherboard.
•• Prior to installation, do not remove or break motherboard S/N (Serial Number) sticker or
warranty sticker provided by your dealer. These stickers are required for warranty validation.
•• Always remove the AC power by unplugging the power cord from the power outlet before
installing or removing the motherboard or other hardware components.
•• When connecting hardware components to the internal connectors on the motherboard, make
sure they are connected tightly and securely.
•• When handling the motherboard, avoid touching any metal leads or connectors.
•• It is best to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling electronic com-
ponents such as a motherboard, CPU or memory. If you do not have an ESD wrist strap, keep
your hands dry and first touch a metal object to eliminate static electricity.
•• Prior to installing the motherboard, please have it on top of an antistatic pad or within an
electrostatic shielding container.
•• Before unplugging the power supply cable from the motherboard, make sure the power supply
has been turned off.
•• Before turning on the power, make sure the power supply voltage has been set according to
the local voltage standard.
•• Before using the product, please verify that all cables and power connectors of your hardware
components are connected.
•• To prevent damage to the motherboard, do not allow screws to come in contact with the
motherboard circuit or its components.
•• Make sure there are no leftover screws or metal components placed on the motherboard or
within the computer casing.
•• Do not place the computer system on an uneven surface.
•• Do not place the computer system in a high-temperature environment.
•• Turning on the computer power during the installation process can lead to damage to system
components as well as physical harm to the user.
•• If you are uncertain about any installation steps or have a problem related to the use of the
product, please consult a certified computer technician.

-9- Hardware Installation

1-2 Product Specifications
CPU Support for Intel® Core™ i7 processors in the LGA2011 package
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
ŠŠ L3 cache varies with CPU
Chipset ŠŠ Intel® X79 Express Chipset
Memory ŠŠ 8 x 1.5V DDR3 DIMM sockets supporting up to 64 GB of system memory
* D
 ue to a Windows 32-bit operating system limitation, when more than 4 GB of
physical memory is installed, the actual memory size displayed will be less than the
size of the physical memory installed.
ŠŠ 4 channel memory architecture
ŠŠ Support for DDR3 2133/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz memory modules
ŠŠ Support for non-ECC memory modules
ŠŠ Support for Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) memory modules
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest supported memory speeds and
memory modules.)
Audio ŠŠ Realtek ALC892 codec
ŠŠ High Definition Audio
ŠŠ 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
ŠŠ Support for S/PDIF Out
LAN ŠŠ Intel GbE LAN chip (10/100/1000 Mbit)
Expansion Slots ŠŠ 2 x PCI Express x16 slots, running at x16 (PCIEX16_1, PCIEX16_2)
* F
 or optimum performance, if only one PCI Express graphics card is to be installed,
be sure to install it in the PCIEX16 slot.
ŠŠ 2 x PCI Express x16 slots, running at x8 (PCIEX8_1, PCIEX8_2)
* T
 he PCIEX8_2 slot shares bandwidth with the PCIEX16_2 slot. When the
PCIEX8_2 slot is populated, the PCIEX16_2 slot will operate at up to x8 mode.
(All PCI Express x16 slots conform to PCI Express 3.0 standard.)
ŠŠ 2 x PCI Express x1 slots
(All PCI Express x1 slots conform to PCI Express 2.0 standard.)
ŠŠ 1 x PCI slot
Multi-Graphics
ŠŠ Support for 4-Way/3-Way/2-Way AMD CrossFireX™/NVIDIA SLI technology
Technology
Storage Interface ŠŠ Chipset:
- 2 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (SATA3 0/1) supporting up to 2 SATA 6Gb/s devices
- 4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors (SATA2 2~5) supporting up to 4 SATA 3Gb/s devices
- Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10
* W
 hen a RAID set is built across the SATA 6Gb/s and SATA 3Gb/s channels, the
system performance of the RAID set may vary depending on the devices being
connected.
ŠŠ 3 x Marvell 88SE9172 chips:
- 4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (SATA3 6~9) supporting up to 4 SATA 6Gb/s devices
- 2 x eSATA 6Gb/s connectors on the back panel supporting up to 2 SATA 6Gb/s
devices
- Support for RAID 0 and RAID 1

Hardware Installation - 10 -
USB ŠŠ Chipset:
- Up to 14 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (8 ports on the back panel, 6 ports available
through the internal USB headers)
ŠŠ 2 x Fresco FL1009 chips:
- Up to 4 USB 3.0/2.0 ports (2 ports on the back panel, 2 ports available
through the internal USB header)
Internal ŠŠ 1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector
Connectors ŠŠ 1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
ŠŠ 6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
ŠŠ 4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors
ŠŠ 1 x CPU fan header
ŠŠ 4 x system fan headers
ŠŠ 1 x front panel header
ŠŠ 1 x front panel audio header
ŠŠ 1 x S/PDIF Out header
ŠŠ 1 x USB 3.0/2.0 header
ŠŠ 3 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
ŠŠ 1 x serial port header
ŠŠ 1 x Clear CMOS jumper
ŠŠ 1 x Trusted Platform Module (TPM) header
Back Panel ŠŠ 1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse port
Connectors ŠŠ 1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector
ŠŠ 1 x coaxial S/PDIF Out connector
ŠŠ 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
ŠŠ 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports
ŠŠ 2 x eSATA 6Gb/s connectors
ŠŠ 1 x RJ-45 port
ŠŠ 6 x audio jacks (Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out/Rear Speaker Out/Side
Speaker Out/Line In/Line Out/Microphone)
I/O Controller ŠŠ iTE I/O Controller Chip
Hardware ŠŠ System voltage detection
Monitor ŠŠ CPU/System temperature detection
ŠŠ CPU/System fan speed detection
ŠŠ CPU overheating warning
ŠŠ CPU/System fan fail warning
ŠŠ CPU/System fan speed control
* W
 hether the CPU/system fan speed control function is supported will depend on
the CPU/system cooler you install.

- 11 - Hardware Installation
 BIOS ŠŠ 2 x 64 Mbit flash
ŠŠ Use of licensed AMI EFI BIOS
ŠŠ Support for DualBIOS™
ŠŠ PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.0, SM BIOS 2.6, ACPI 2.0a
Unique Features ŠŠ Support for @BIOS
ŠŠ Support for Q-Flash
ŠŠ Support for Xpress Install
ŠŠ Support for EasyTune
* Available functions in EasyTune may differ by motherboard model.
ŠŠ Support for ON/OFF Charge
ŠŠ Support for 3TB+ Unlock
ŠŠ Support for Q-Share
ŠŠ Support for 3D Power
Bundled
ŠŠ Norton Internet Security (OEM version)
Software
Operating
ŠŠ Support for Microsoft® Windows 7/Vista/XP
System
Form Factor ŠŠ ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 24.4cm

* G IGABYTE reserves the right to make any changes to the product specifications and product-related information without
prior notice.
* Please visit GIGABYTE's website to check the supported operating system(s) for the software listed in the "Unique
Features" and "Bundled Software" columns.

Hardware Installation - 12 -
1-3 Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:
•• Make sure that the motherboard supports the CPU.
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
•• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the
CPU to prevent hardware damage.
•• Locate the pin one of the CPU. The CPU cannot be inserted if oriented incorrectly. (Or you may
locate the notches on both sides of the CPU and alignment keys on the CPU socket.)
•• Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the CPU.
•• Do not turn on the computer if the CPU cooler is not installed, otherwise overheating and damage
of the CPU may occur.
•• Set the CPU host frequency in accordance with the CPU specifications. It is not recommended
that the system bus frequency be set beyond hardware specifications since it does not meet the
standard requirements for the peripherals. If you wish to set the frequency beyond the standard
specifications, please do so according to your hardware specifications including the CPU, graphics
card, memory, hard drive, etc.

1-3-1 Installing the CPU

A. Locate the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU.

LGA2011 CPU Socket

Alignment Key Alignment Key
Pin One Corner of the CPU
Socket

Alignment Key Alignment Key

LGA2011 CPU
Notch Notch
Triangle Pin One
Marking on the CPU

Notch Notch

- 13 - Hardware Installation
B. Follow the steps below to correctly install the CPU into the motherboard CPU socket.
• Before installing the CPU, make sure to turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from
the power outlet to prevent damage to the CPU.
• To protect the socket contacts, do not remove the protective plastic cover unless the CPU is
inserted into the CPU socket. Save the cover properly and replace it if the CPU is removed.
Lever A Lever B

Step 1: Step 2:
Push the lever closest to the "unlock" marking " " Push the lever closest to the "lock" marking " "
(below referred as lever A) down and away from (below referred as lever B) down and away from
the socket to release it. the socket. Then lift the lever.

Step 3: Step 4:
Gently press lever A to allow the load plate to Hold the CPU with your thumb and index fingers.
rise. Open the load plate. Note: DO NOT touch Align the CPU pin one marking (triangle) with the
the socket contacts after the load plate is opened. pin one corner of the CPU socket (or align the
CPU notches with the socket alignment keys) and
carefully insert the CPU into the socket vertically.

Step 5: Step 6:
Once the CPU is properly inserted, carefully Finally, secure lever A under its retention tab to
replace the load plate. Then secure lever B under complete the installation of the CPU.
its retention tab. The protective plastic cover may
pop off from the load plate during the process of
engaging the lever. Remove the cover. Save the
cover properly and always replace it when the
CPU is not installed.

Hardware Installation - 14 -
1-3-2 Installing the CPU Cooler
Follow the steps below to correctly install the CPU cooler on the motherboard. (The following procedure uses
Intel® boxed cooler as the example cooler.)

Step 1: Step 2:
Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on Place the cooler atop the CPU, aligning the four
the surface of the installed CPU. mounting screws with the mounting holes on the
ILM. (If your cooler has a fan grill which may cause
interference when you tighten the screws, remove
it first and replace it after tightening the screws.)

Step 3: Step 4:
Use one hand to hold the cooler and the other to Finally, attach the power connector of the CPU
tighten the screws in a diagonal sequence with a cooler to the CPU fan header (CPU_FAN) on the
screw driver. Begin tightening a screw with a few motherboard.
turns and repeat with the screw diagonally opposite
the one you just tightened. Then do the same to
the other pair. Next, fully tighten the four screws.

Use extreme care when removing the CPU cooler because the thermal grease/tape between the CPU
cooler and CPU may adhere to the CPU. Inadequately removing the CPU cooler may damage the CPU.

- 15 - Hardware Installation
1-4 Installing the Memory
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the memory:
•• Make sure that the motherboard supports the memory. It is recommended that memory of the same
capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used.
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest supported memory speeds and memory modules.)
•• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the
memory to prevent hardware damage.
•• Memory modules have a foolproof design. A memory module can be installed in only one direction.
If you are unable to insert the memory, switch the direction.

1-4-1 4 Channel Memory Configuration

This motherboard provides eight DDR3 memory sockets and supports 4 Channel Technology. After the memory
is installed, the BIOS will automatically detect the specifications and capacity of the memory. The eight DDR3
memory sockets are divided into four channels and each channel has two memory sockets as following:

Channel A: DDR3_1, DDR3_5

Channel B: DDR3_2, DDR3_6

Channel C: DDR3_3, DDR3_7

Channel A: DDR3_4, DDR3_8
DDR3_4

DDR3_3
DDR3_8

DDR3_6
DDR3_2

DDR3_5

DDR3_7
DDR3_1

4 Channel Memory Configurations Table

DDR3_4 DDR3_8 DDR3_2 DDR3_6 DDR3_5 DDR3_1 DDR3_7 DDR3_3
Four Modules DS/SS -- DS/SS -- -- DS/SS -- DS/SS
Eight Modules DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS

Dual/3 Channel Memory Configurations Table

DDR3_4 DDR3_8 DDR3_2 DDR3_6 DDR3_5 DDR3_1 DDR3_7 DDR3_3
Two Modules -- -- DS/SS -- -- DS/SS -- --
-- -- -- -- -- DS/SS -- DS/SS
DS/SS -- -- -- -- DS/SS -- --
-- -- DS/SS -- -- -- -- DS/SS
DS/SS -- DS/SS -- -- -- -- --
DS/SS -- -- -- -- -- -- DS/SS
Three Modules -- -- DS/SS -- -- DS/SS -- DS/SS
DS/SS -- DS/SS -- -- DS/SS -- --
DS/SS -- -- -- DS/SS -- DS/SS
DS/SS -- DS/SS -- -- -- -- DS/SS
(SS=Single-Sided, DS=Double-Sided, "- -"=No Memory)

Hardware Installation - 16 -
Due to CPU limitations, read the following guidelines before installing the memory in Dual Channel mode.
1. For optimum performance, when enabling Dual Channel mode with two memory modules, we recom-
mend that you install them in the DDR3_1 and DDR3_2 sockets.
2. When installing the memory, make sure to begin with the first socket of each channel, such as DDR3_1,
DDR3_2, DDR3_3, and DDR3_4.

1-4-2 Installing a Memory

Before installing a memory module, make sure to turn off the computer and unplug the power
cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the memory module.
DDR3 and DDR2 DIMMs are not compatible to each other or DDR DIMMs. Be sure to install DDR3
DIMMs on this motherboard.

Notch

DDR3 DIMM

A DDR3 memory module has a notch, so it can only fit in one direction. Follow the steps below to correctly install
your memory modules in the memory sockets.
Step 1:
Note the orientation of the memory module. Spread the retaining clips
at both ends of the memory socket. Place the memory module on the
socket. As indicated in the picture on the left, place your fingers on
the top edge of the memory, push down on the memory and insert it
vertically into the memory socket.

Step 2:
The clips at both ends of the socket will snap into place when the
memory module is securely inserted.

- 17 - Hardware Installation
1-5 Installing an Expansion Card
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install an expansion card:
•• Make sure the motherboard supports the expansion card. Carefully read the manual that came
with your expansion card.
•• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing an
expansion card to prevent hardware damage.

PCI Express x16 Slot

PCI Express x1 Slot

PCI Slot

Follow the steps below to correctly install your expansion card in the expansion slot.
1. Locate an expansion slot that supports your card. Remove the metal slot cover from the chassis back panel.
2. Align the card with the slot, and press down on the card until it is fully seated in the slot.
3. Make sure the metal contacts on the card are completely inserted into the slot.
4. Secure the card's metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw.
5. After installing all expansion cards, replace the chassis cover(s).
6. Turn on your computer. If necessary, go to BIOS Setup to make any required BIOS changes for your
expansion card(s).
7. Install the driver provided with the expansion card in your operating system.
Example: Installing and Removing a PCI Express Graphics Card:
•• Installing a Graphics Card:
Gently push down on the top edge of the card until
it is fully inserted into the PCI Express slot. Make
sure the card is securely seated in the slot and
does not rock.

•• Removing the Card:

Gently push back on the lever on the slot and then lift the card straight out from
the slot.

Hardware Installation - 18 -
1-6 Setting up AMD CrossFireX™/NVIDIA SLI Configuration
A. System Requirements
-- The 2-Way CrossFireX and 2-Way SLI technologies currently support Windows 7, Vista, XP operating systems
-- The 3-Way/4-Way CrossFireX/SLI technologies currently support Windows 7 and Vista operating systems
-- A CrossFireX/SLI-supported motherboard with two/three/four PCI Express x16 slots and correct driver
-- Two/three/four CrossFireX/SLI-ready graphics cards of identical brand and chip and correct driver
(Current GPUs that support 3-Way/4-Way CrossFireX technology include the ATI Radeon HD 3800, HD 4800, HD 5800
series, and AMD Radeon HD 6800 and HD 6900 series. Current GPUs that support 3-Way/4-Way SLI technology include
the NVIDIA 8800 GTX, 8800 Ultra, 9800 GTX, GTX 260, GTX 280, GTX 470, GTX 480, GTX 570, GTX 580, and GTX
590 series.)
-- CrossFireX(Note)/SLI bridge connectors
-- A power supply with sufficient power is recommended (Note 2) (Refer to the manual of your graphics cards for the power
requirement)

B. Connecting the Graphics Cards

Step 1:
Observe the steps in "1-5 Installing an Expansion Card" and install CrossFireX/SLI graphics cards on the PCI Express x16
slots. (To set up a 2-Way configuration, we recommend installing the graphics cards on the PCIEX16_1 and PCIEX16_2 slots.)

Step 2:
Insert the CrossFireX (Note)/SLI bridge connectors in the CrossFireX/SLI gold edge connectors on top of the cards.

Step 3:
Plug the display cable into the graphics card on the PCIEX16_1 slot.

C. Configuring the Graphics Card Driver

C-1. To Enable CrossFireX Function
After installing the graphics card driver in the operating system, go to
the Catalyst Control Center. Browse to Performance\AMD CrossFi-
reX™ Configuration and ensure the Enable CrossFireX™ check box
is selected. Select the GPU combination you want to use and click
Apply. (Available combination options are dependent on the number
of graphics cards.)

C-2. To Enable SLI Function

After installing the graphics card driver in the operating system, go to
the NVIDIA Control Panel. Browse to the Set SLI and Physx Con-
figuration screen and ensure Maximize 3D performance is enabled.

(Note) The bridge connector(s) may be needed or not depending on your graphics cards.

Procedure and driver screen for enabling CrossFireX/SLI technology may differ by graphics cards.
Refer to the manual that came with your graphics cards for more information about enabling Cross-
FireX/SLI technology.

- 19 - Hardware Installation
1-7 Back Panel Connectors

USB 2.0/1.1 Port

The USB port supports the USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Use this port for USB devices such as a USB
keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB flash drive and etc.
PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port
Use this port to connect a PS/2 mouse or keyboard.
Optical S/PDIF Out Connector
This connector provides digital audio out to an external audio system that supports digital optical audio.
Before using this feature, ensure that your audio system provides an optical digital audio in connector.
Coaxial S/PDIF Out Connector
This connector provides digital audio out to an external audio system that supports digital coaxial audio.
Before using this feature, ensure that your audio system provides a coaxial digital audio in connector.
eSATA 6Gb/s Connector
This connector supports SATA 6Gb/s specification. Use the port to connect an external SATA device or
a SATA port multiplier.
USB 3.0/2.0 Port
The USB 3.0 port supports the USB 3.0 specification and is compatible to the USB 2.0/1.1 specification.
Use this port for USB devices such as a USB keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB flash drive and etc.
RJ-45 LAN Port
The Gigabit Ethernet LAN port provides Internet connection at up to 1 Gbps data rate. The following
describes the states of the LAN port LEDs.

Connection/ Connection/Speed LED: Activity LED:

Speed LED Activity LED
State Description State Description
Orange 1 Gbps data rate Blinking Data transmission or receiving is occurring
Green 100 Mbps data rate Off No data transmission or receiving is occurring
Off 10 Mbps data rate
LAN Port

•• When removing the cable connected to a back panel connector, first remove the cable from your
device and then remove it from the motherboard.
•• When removing the cable, pull it straight out from the connector. Do not rock it side to side to prevent
an electrical short inside the cable connector.
Hardware Installation - 20 -
Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out Jack (Orange)
Use this audio jack to connect center/subwoofer speakers in a 5.1/7.1-channel audio configuration.
Rear Speaker Out Jack (Black)
This jack can be used to connect front speakers in a 4/5.1/7.1-channel audio configuration.
Side Speaker Out Jack (Gray)
Use this audio jack to connect side speakers in a 7.1-channel audio configuration.
Line In Jack (Blue)
The line out jack. Use this audio jack for line in devices such as an optical drive, walkman, etc.
Line Out Jack (Green)
The line out jack. Use this audio jack for a headphone or 2-channel speaker. This jack can be used to
connect front speakers in a 4/5.1/7.1-channel audio configuration.
Mic In Jack (Pink)
The default Mic in jack. Microphones must be connected to this jack.

In addition to the default speakers settings, the ~ audio jacks can be reconfigured to perform
different functions via the audio software. Only microphones still MUST be connected to the default
Mic in jack ( ). Refer to the instructions on setting up a 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel audio configuration in
Chapter 5, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio."

- 21 - Hardware Installation
1-8 Internal Connectors

4 1

13

3
9

6
7

8
12
5

11 15 4 16 14 8 10 4

1) ATX_12V_2X4 9) BAT
2) ATX 10) F_PANEL
3) CPU_FAN 11) F_AUDIO
4) SYS_FAN1/2/3/4 12) SPDIF_O
5) CLR_CMOS 13) F_USB30
6) SATA3 0/1 14) F_USB1/F_USB2/F_USB3
7) SATA2 2/3/4/5 15) COMA
8) GSATA3 6/7/8/9 16) TPM

Read the following guidelines before connecting external devices:

•• First make sure your devices are compliant with the connectors you wish to connect.
•• Before installing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the power
cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the devices.
•• After installing the device and before turning on the computer, make sure the device cable has
been securely attached to the connector on the motherboard.

Hardware Installation - 22 -
1/2) ATX_12V_2X4/ATX (2x4 12V Power Connector and 2x12 Main Power Connector)
With the use of the power connector, the power supply can supply enough stable power to all the components
on the motherboard. Before connecting the power connector, first make sure the power supply is turned
off and all devices are properly installed. The power connector possesses a foolproof design. Connect the
power supply cable to the power connector in the correct orientation.
The 12V power connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If the 12V power connector is not connected,
the computer will not start.
To meet expansion requirements, it is recommended that a power supply that can withstand high
power consumption be used (500W or greater). If a power supply is used that does not provide the
required power, the result can lead to an unstable or unbootable system.

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

ATX:
Pin No. Definition Pin No. Definition
12 24
1 3.3V 13 3.3V
2 3.3V 14 -12V
3 GND 15 GND
4 +5V 16 PS_ON (soft On/Off)
5 GND 17 GND
6 +5V 18 GND
7 GND 19 GND
8 Power Good 20 -5V
9 5VSB (stand by +5V) 21 +5V
10 +12V 22 +5V
11 +12V (Only for 2x12-pin 23 +5V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
ATX)
1 13
12 3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin 24 GND (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
ATX)
ATX

- 23 - Hardware Installation
3/4) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2/SYS_FAN3/SYS_FAN4 (Fan Headers)
The motherboard has a 4-pin CPU fan header (CPU_FAN), two 4-pin (SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2) and two
3-pin (SYS_FAN3/SYS_FAN4) system fan headers. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design.
When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is
the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design. For
optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed inside the chassis.
CPU_FAN:
Pin No. Definition
1 1 GND
CPU_FAN 2 +12V /Speed Control
3 Sense
4 Speed Control
1
SYS_FAN1:
Pin No. Definition
1 GND
SYS_FAN1
2 +12V /Speed Control
3 Sense
4 Reserve
SYS_FAN2:
SYS_FAN3/SYS_FAN4: 1 Pin No. Definition
Pin No. Definition SYS_FAN2 1 GND
1 GND 2 +12V
2 +12V 1
3 Sense
3 Sense 4 Speed Control
SYS_FAN3/SYS_FAN4

•• Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from overheating. Overheat-
ing may result in damage to the CPU or the system may hang.
•• These fan headers are not configuration jumper blocks. Do not place a jumper cap on the headers.

5) CLR_CMOS (Clear CMOS Jumper)

Use this jumper to clear the CMOS values (e.g. date information and BIOS configurations) and reset the
CMOS values to factory defaults. To clear the CMOS values, use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch
the two pins for a few seconds.

Open: Normal

Short: Clear CMOS Values

•• Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before clearing the CMOS values.
•• After system restart, go to BIOS Setup to load factory defaults (select Load Optimized Defaults) or manually
configure the BIOS settings (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," for BIOS configurations).

Hardware Installation - 24 -
 6) SATA3 0/1 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors, Controlled by Intel X79 Chipset)
The SATA connectors conform to SATA 6Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and SATA
1.5Gb/s standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The SATA3 0/1 connectors sup-
port RAID 0 and RAID 1. RAID 5 and RAID 10 can be implemented on the two connectors with the SATA2
2/3/4/5 connector (Note). Refer to Chapter 5, "Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)," for instructions on configuring
a RAID array.
[Link]
Pin No. Definition
SATA3 1 GND
7 1 2 TXP
3 TXN
7 1
4 GND
1 5 RXN
0
6 RXP
7 GND

7) SATA2 2/3/4/5 (SATA 3Gb/s Connectors, Controlled by Intel X79 Chipset)

The SATA connectors conform to SATA 3Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 1.5Gb/s standard.
Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The Intel Z77 Chipset supports RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, and RAID 10. Refer to Chapter 5, "Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)," for instructions on configuring
a RAID array. [Link] [Link]

SATA2
Pin No. Definition
1 GND
7 1
2 TXP
7 1 3 TXN
5 3 4 GND
4 2 5 RXN
6 RXP
7 GND

•• A RAID 0 or RAID 1 configuration requires at least two hard drives. If more than two hard drives
are to be used, the total number of hard drives must be an even number.
•• A RAID 5 configuration requires at least three hard drives. (The total number of hard drives does
not have to be an even number.)
DEBUG •• A RAID 10 configuration requires four hard drives.
PORT
(Note) When a RAID set is built across the SATA 6Gb/s and SATA 3Gb/s channels, the system performance
of the RAID set may vary depending on the devices being connected.
- 25 - Hardware Installation
8) GSATA3 6/7/8/9 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors, Controlled by Marvell
DEBUG 88SE9172
DEBUG Chip)
The SATA connectors conform to SATA 6Gb/s standard and are compatible
PORT with SATA
PORT 3Gb/s and SATA

1.5Gb/s standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The Marvell 88SE9172 chip
supports RAID 0 and RAID 1. Refer to Chapter 5, "Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)," for instructions on
configuring a RAID array.
[Link]

GSATA3
Pin No. Definition
1 GND
7 1
2 TXP
7 1
3 TXN
7 4 GND
6 5 RXN
6 RXP
GSATA3 7 GND
1 7

9 8

A RAID 0 or RAID 1 configuration requires two hard drives.

9) BAT (Battery)
The battery provides power to keep the values (such as BIOS configurations, date, and time information)
in the CMOS when the computer is turned off. Replace the battery when the battery voltage drops to a low
level, or the CMOS values may not be accurate or may be lost.

You may clear the CMOS values by removing the battery:

1. Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Gently remove the battery from the battery holder and wait for one minute.
(Or use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the positive and negative
terminals of the battery holder, making them short for 5 seconds.)
3. Replace the battery.
4. Plug in the power cord and restart your computer.

•• Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord before replacing the battery.
•• Replace the battery with an equivalent one. Danger of explosion if the battery is replaced with
an incorrect model.
•• Contact the place of purchase or local dealer if you are not able to replace the battery by yourself
or uncertain about the battery model.
•• When installing the battery, note the orientation of the positive side (+) and the negative side (-)
of the battery (the positive side should face up).
•• Used batteries must be handled in accordance with local environmental regulations.

Hardware Installation - 26 -
10) F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)
Connect the power switch, reset switch, speaker, chassis intrusion switch/sensor and system status indicator
on the chassis to this header according to the pin assignments below. Note the positive and negative pins
before connecting the cables.
Message/Power/ Power
Sleep LED Switch Speaker

MSG+

PW+

SPEAK+

SPEAK-
MSG-

PW-
2 20
1 19

HD-

RES+

CI+

PWR+

PWR-
HD+

RES-

CI-
Hard Drive Reset Power LED
Activity LED Switch
Chassis Intrusion
Header

•• MSG/PWR (Message/Power/Sleep LED, Yellow/Purple):

System Status LED Connects to the power status indicator on the chassis front panel. The LED
S0 On is on when the system is operating. The LED is off when the system is in S3/
S3/S4/S5 Off S4 sleep state or powered off (S5).
•• PW (Power Switch, Red):
Connects to the power switch on the chassis front panel. You may configure the way to turn off your
system using the power switch (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Power Management," for more
information).
•• SPEAK (Speaker, Orange):
Connects to the speaker on the chassis front panel. The system reports system startup status by issuing
a beep code. One single short beep will be heard if no problem is detected at system startup.
•• HD (Hard Drive Activity LED, Blue):
Connects to the hard drive activity LED on the chassis front panel. The LED is on when the hard drive
is reading or writing data.
•• RES (Reset Switch, Green):
Connects to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset switch to restart the computer
if the computer freezes and fails to perform a normal restart.
•• CI (Chassis Intrusion Header, Gray):
Connects to the chassis intrusion switch/sensor on the chassis that can detect if the chassis cover has
been removed. This function requires a chassis with a chassis intrusion switch/sensor.

The front panel design may differ by chassis. A front panel module mainly consists of power switch,
reset switch, power LED, hard drive activity LED, speaker and etc. When connecting your chassis
front panel module to this header, make sure the wire assignments and the pin assignments are
matched correctly.

- 27 - Hardware Installation
 11) F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header)
The front panel audio header supports Intel High Definition audio (HD) and AC'97 audio. You may connect
your chassis front panel audio module to this header. Make sure the wire assignments of the module con-
nector match the pin assignments of the motherboard header. Incorrect connection between the module
connector and the motherboard header will make the device unable to work or even damage it.
For HD Front Panel Audio: For AC'97 Front Panel Audio:
Pin No. Definition Pin No. Definition
9 1
1 MIC2_L 1 MIC
F_AUDIO(H) F_PANEL(NH) F_PANEL
2 GND 2 GND (H61M-D2)
3 MIC2_R 3 MIC Power
10 2
4 -ACZ_DET 4 NC
5 LINE2_R 5 Line Out (R)
6 GND 6 NC
7 FAUDIO_JD 7 NC
8 No Pin 8 No Pin
9 LINE2_L 9 Line Out (L)
10 GND 10 NC
BIOS Switcher (X58A-OC)
DB_PORT
•• The front panel audio header supports HD audio by default. If your chassis provides an AC'97
1

front panel audio module, refer to the instructions on how to activate AC'97 functionality via the
1

audio software in Chapter 5, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel

M_SATA Audio."
1
1

•• Audio signals will be present on both of the front and back panel audio connections simultane-
ously. If you want to mute the back panel audio (only supported when using an HD front panel ACPI_CPT
audio module(X58A-OC)
Voltage measurement module), refer to Chapter 5, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio." (GA-IVB)
•• Some chassis provide a front panel audio module that has separated connectors on each wire
PWM Switch (X58A-OC)
instead of a single plug. For information about connecting the front panel audio module that has
1 2 3
DIP

1 2 3

different wire assignments, please contact the chassis manufacturer.

DIP

DIP

12) SPDIF_O (S/PDIF Out Header)

1 2 3

SMB_CPT
DIP

1 2 3

This header supports digital S/PDIF Out and connects a S/PDIF digital audio cable (provided by expansion (GA-IVB)
PCIe power connector (SATA)(X58A-OC)
cards) for digital audio output from your motherboard to certain expansion cards like graphics cards and
sound cards. For example, some graphics cards may require you to use a S/PDIF digital audio cable for
digital audio output from your motherboard to your graphics card if you wish to connect an HDMI display
to the graphics card and have digital audio output from the HDMI display at the same time. CLR_CMOS
For information about connecting the S/PDIF digital audio cable, carefully read the manual for your expan- CI
DIS_ME
sion card. GP15_CPT
(GA-IVB)
Pin No. Definition
1 SPDIFO
XDP_CPU
BIOS Switcher (SW4) 1 2 GND XDP_PCH
oltage measurement points([Link] 3)
(GA-IVB)

Hardware Installation - 28 -
 F_USB30 F_AUDIO(H)

13) F_USB30 (USB 3.0/2.0 Header)

The header conforms to USB 3.0/2.0 specification and can provide two USB ports. For purchasing the
optional 3.5" front panel that provides two USB 3.0/2.0 ports, please contact the local dealer.

20 1

BIOS Switc
DB_PORT
[Link] 1

11 10
1

1
Pin No. Definition Pin No. Definition
1 VBUS 11 Voltage
D2+ measurement module(X58A-OC)
TPM 2 SSRX1- 12 D2- PWM Swi
w/housing
3 SSRX1+ 13 GND

DIP
4 GND 14 SSTX2+
5 SSTX1- 15 SSTX2- DIP

6 SSTX1+ 16 GND
1 2 3

7 GND 17 PCIe power connector (SATA)(X58A-OC)

SSRX2+
8 D1- 18 SSRX2-
9 D1+ 19 VBUS
10 NC 20 No Pin

14) F_USB1/F_USB2/F_USB3 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers)

BUG
RT
The headers conform to USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Each USB header can provide two USB ports via an
optional USB bracket. For purchasing the optional USB bracket, please contact the local dealer.

Voltage measurement points([Link] BIOS Switcher (SW4)

Pin No. 3) Definition
1 Power (5V)
9 1
10 2 2 Power (5V)
3 USB DX-
4 USB DY-
5 USB DX+
6 USB DY+
7 GND
8 GND
9 No Pin
10 NC

When the system is in S4/S5 mode, only the USB ports routed to the F_USB1 header can support
the ON/OFF Charge function.
•• Do not plug the IEEE 1394 bracket (2x5-pin) cable into the USB 2.0/1.1 header.
•• Prior to installing the USB bracket, be sure to turn off your computer and unplug the power cord
from the power outlet to prevent damage to the USB bracket.

- 29 - Hardware Installation
15) COMA (Serial Port Header)
The COM header can provide one serial port via an optional COM port cable. For purchasing the optional
COM port cable, please contact the local dealer.

Pin No. Definition

1 NDCD-
9 1 2 NSIN
10 2
3 NSOUT
4 NDTR-
5 GND
6 NDSR-
7 NRTS-
F_USB30 8 NCTS- F_AUDIO(H)
9 NRI-
10 No Pin

DB_PORT

16) TPM (Trusted Platform Module Header)

You may connect a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) to this header.
19 1 Voltage measurement module(X58A-OC)
TPM
w/housing

20 2

Pin No. Definition Pin No. Definition

1 LCLK 11 LAD0 PCIe power connector (SATA)(X58A-OC)
2 GND 12 GND
3 LFRAME 13 NC
4 No Pin 14 ID
5 LRESET 15 SB3V
6 NC 16 SERIRQ
7 LAD3 17 GND
8 LAD2 18 NC
9 VCC3 19 NC
10 LAD1 20 SUSCLK
Voltage measurement points([Link] 3) BIOS Switcher (SW4)

Hardware Installation - 30 -
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) records hardware parameters of the system in the CMOS on the
motherboard. Its major functions include conducting the Power-On Self-Test (POST) during system startup,
saving system parameters and loading operating system, etc. BIOS includes a BIOS Setup program that allows
the user to modify basic system configuration settings or to activate certain system features.

When the power is turned off, the battery on the motherboard supplies the necessary power to the CMOS to
keep the configuration values in the CMOS.

To access the BIOS Setup program, press the <Delete> key during the POST when the power is turned on.

To upgrade the BIOS, use either the GIGABYTE Q-Flash or @BIOS utility.
•• Q-Flash allows the user to quickly and easily upgrade or back up BIOS without entering the operating system.
•• @BIOS is a Windows-based utility that searches and downloads the latest version of BIOS from the Internet
and updates the BIOS.
For instructions on using the Q-Flash and @BIOS utilities, refer to Chapter 4, "BIOS Update Utilities."

•• Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, if you do not encounter problems using the current
version of BIOS, it is recommended that you not flash the BIOS. To flash the BIOS, do it with
caution. Inadequate BIOS flashing may result in system malfunction.
•• It is recommended that you not alter the default settings (unless you need to) to prevent system
instability or other unexpected results. Inadequately altering the settings may result in system's
failure to boot. If this occurs, try to clear the CMOS values and reset the board to default values.
(Refer to the "Load Optimized Defaults" section in this chapter or introductions of the battery/clear
CMOS jumper in Chapter 1 for how to clear the CMOS values.)

- 31 - BIOS Setup
2-1 Startup Screen
The following startup Logo screen will appear when the computer boots.

Function Keys

Function Keys:
<DEL>: BIOS SETUP\Q-FLASH
Press the <Delete> key to enter BIOS Setup or to access the Q-Flash utility in BIOS Setup.
<F9>: SYSTEM INFORMATION
Press the <F9> key to display your system information.
<F12>: BOOT MENU
Boot Menu allows you to set the first boot device without entering BIOS Setup. In Boot Menu, use the up
arrow key <h> or the down arrow key <i> to select the first boot device, then press <Enter> to accept.
The system will boot from the device immediately.
Note: The setting in Boot Menu is effective for one time only. After system restart, the device boot order
will still be based on BIOS Setup settings.
<END>: Q-FLASH
Press the <End> key to access the Q-Flash utility directly without having to enter BIOS Setup first.

BIOS Setup - 32 -
2-2 The Main Menu
A. The 3D BIOS Screen (Default)
On GIGABYTE's uniquely designed 3D BIOS screen, you can use your mouse to move through the motherboard
image and click to enter the function menu in each area for quick configuration. For example, pass your mouse
arrow over the CPU and memory sockets and enter the System Tuning menu to configure CPU/memory
frequency, memory timings, and voltage settings. For more detailed configuration items, you can click the
function menu icons at the bottom of the screen or press <F1> to switch to the main menu of the BIOS Setup
program. (If a mouse is not connected, the 3D BIOS screen will automatically switch to the main menu of the
BIOS Setup Program.)

B. The Main Menu of the BIOS Setup Program

On the main menu of the BIOS Setup program, press arrow keys to move among the items and press <Enter>
to accept or enter a sub-menu. Or you can use your mouse to select the item you want.
(Sample BIOS Version: F2a)

Setup Menus

Switch to Enter Q-Flash

3D BIOS Select Default
screen Language

Help

Function Keys

Configuration Items Current Settings

- 33 - BIOS Setup
BIOS Setup Program Function Keys
<f><g> Move the selection bar to select a setup menu
<h><i> Move the selection bar to select an configuration item on a menu
<Enter> Execute command or enter a menu
<+>/<Page Up> Increase the numeric value or make changes
<->/<Page Down> Decrease the numeric value or make changes
<F1> Switch to 3D BIOS screen
<F5> Restore the previous BIOS settings for the current submenus
<F7> Load the Optimized BIOS default settings for the current submenus
<F8> Access the Q-Flash utility
<F9> Display system information
<F10> Save all the changes and exit the BIOS Setup program
<F12> Capture the current screen as an image and save it to your USB drive
<Esc> Main Menu: Exit the BIOS Setup program
Submenus: Exit current submenu

BIOS Setup Menus

„„ M.I.T.
Use this menu to configure the clock, frequency, and voltages of your CPU and memory, etc. Or check the
system/CPU temperatures, voltages, and fan speeds.
„„ System
Use this menu to configure the default language used by the BIOS and system time and date. This menu
also displays information on the devices connected to the SATA ports.
„„ BIOS Features
Use this menu to configure the device boot order, advanced features available on the CPU, and the primary
display adapter.
„„ Peripherals
Use this menu to configure all peripheral devices, such as SATA, USB, integrated audio, and integrated
LAN, etc.
„„ Power Management
Use this menu to configure all the power-saving functions.
„„ Save & Exit
Save all the changes made in the BIOS Setup program to the CMOS and exit BIOS Setup. You can save
the current BIOS settings to a profile or load optimized defaults for optimal-performance system operations.

•• When the system is not stable as usual, select the Load Optimized Defaults item to set your
system to its defaults.
•• The BIOS Setup menus described in this chapter are for reference only and may differ by BIOS
version.

BIOS Setup - 34 -
2-3 M.I.T.

Whether the system will work stably with the overclock/overvoltage settings you made is dependent
on your overall system configurations. Incorrectly doing overclock/overvoltage may result in damage
to CPU, chipset, or memory and reduce the useful life of these components. This page is for advanced
users only and we recommend you not to alter the default settings to prevent system instability or
other unexpected results. (Inadequately altering the settings may result in system's failure to boot. If
this occurs, clear the CMOS values and reset the board to default values.)

This section provides information on the BIOS version, CPU base clock, CPU frequency, memory frequency,
total memory size, CPU temperature, Vcore, and memory voltage.

- 35 - BIOS Setup
`` M.I.T. Current Status
This screen provides information on CPU/memory frequencies/parameters.

`` Advanced Frequency Settings

&& BCLK/PCIe Clock Control

Enables or disables the control of CPU base clock and PCIe bus frequency. Manual will allow the Host
Clock Frequency and Processor Base Clock items below to be configurable. Note: If your system fails
to boot after overclocking, please wait for 20 seconds for automated system reboot, or clear the CMOS
values to reset the board to default values. (Default: Auto)
&& Host Clock Frequency
Allows you to manually set the host clock frequency (which controls CPU, PCIe, and memory frequencies)
in 0.01 MHz increments. This item is configurable only when BCLK/PCIe Clock Control is set to Manual.
When you change the Host Clock Frequency setting, the BCLK/PCIe Clock Evaluation setting below will
be changed synchronously.
Important: It is highly recommended that the CPU frequency be set in accordance with the CPU
specifications.
&& Processor Base Clock (Gear Ratio)
Allows you to configure the Processor Base Clock by multiplying the Host Clock Frequency by several
preset host clock multipliers. This item is configurable only when BCLK/PCIe Clock Control is set to
Manual. When you change the Host Clock Frequency setting, the BCLK/PCIe Clock Evaluation setting
below will be changed synchronously.
Important: It is highly recommended that the CPU frequency be set in accordance with the CPU
specifications.
&& BCLK/PCIe Clock Evaluation
This value is determined by multiplying the Host Clock Frequency value by the Processor Base Clock
value.

BIOS Setup - 36 -
&& CPU Clock Ratio
Allows you to alter the clock ratio for the installed CPU. The adjustable range is dependent on the CPU
being installed.
&& CPU Frequency
This value is determined by multiplying the Processor Base Clock value by the CPU Clock Ratio value.

`` Advanced CPU Core Features

&& CPU Clock Ratio, CPU Frequency

The settings under the two items above are synchronous to those under the same items on the Advanced
Frequency Settings menu.
&& Internal CPU PLL Overvoltage
Enabled allows CPU PLL voltage to operate at a higher value. Disabled allows CPU PLL voltage to operate
at default value. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& Intel(R) Turbo Boost Technology (Note)
Allows you to determine whether to enable the Intel CPU Turbo Boost technology. Auto lets the BIOS
automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& Turbo Ratio (1-Core Active~6-Core Active) (Note)
Allows you to set the CPU Turbo ratios for different number of active cores. Auto sets the CPU Turbo ratios
according to the CPU specifications. (Default: Auto)
&& Turbo Power Limit (Watts)
Allows you to set a power limit for CPU Turbo mode. When the CPU power consumption exceeds the
specified power limit, the CPU will automatically reduce the core frequency in order to reduce the power.
Auto sets the power limit according to the CPU specifications. (Default: Auto)
&& Core Current Limit (Amps)
Allows you to set a current limit for CPU Turbo mode. When the CPU current exceeds the specified current
limit, the CPU will automatically reduce the core frequency in order to reduce the current. Auto sets the
power limit according to the CPU specifications. (Default: Auto)
(Note) This item is present only when you install a CPU that supports this feature. For more information about
Intel CPUs' unique features, please visit Intel's website.
- 37 - BIOS Setup
&& CPU Core Enabled (Note 1)
Allows you to determine whether to enable all CPU cores. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this
setting. (Default: Auto)
&& Hyper-Threading Technology (Note 1)
Allows you to determine whether to enable multi-threading technology when using an Intel CPU that supports
this function. This feature only works for operating systems that support multi-processor mode. Auto lets
the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) (Note 1)
Enables or disables Intel CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) function, a CPU power-saving function in system
halt state. When enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage will be reduced during system halt state to
decrease power consumption. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& C3/C6 State Support (Note 1)
Allows you to determine whether to let the CPU enter C3/C6 mode in system halt state. When enabled, the
CPU core frequency and voltage will be reduced during system halt state to decrease power consumption.
The C3/C6 state is a more enhanced power-saving state than C1. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure
this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& CPU Thermal Monitor (Note 1)
Enables or disables Intel CPU Thermal Monitor function, a CPU overheating protection function. When
enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage will be reduced when the CPU is overheated. Auto lets the
BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& CPU EIST Function (Note 1)
Enables or disables Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST). Depending on CPU loading, Intel EIST
technology can dynamically and effectively lower the CPU voltage and core frequency to decrease average
power consumption and heat production. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default:
Auto)

&& Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) (Note 2)

Allows the BIOS to read the SPD data on XMP memory module(s) to enhance memory performance when
enabled.

Disabled Disables this function. (Default)

Profile1 Uses Profile 1 settings.

Profile2 (Note 2)
Uses Profile 2 settings.
&& System Memory Multiplier
Allows you to set the system memory multiplier. Auto sets memory multiplier according to memory SPD
data. (Default: Auto)
&& Memory Frequency (MHz)
The first memory frequency value is the normal operating frequency of the memory being used; the second
is the memory frequency that is automatically adjusted according to the Host Clock Frequency, Processor
Base Clock, and System Memory Multiplier settings.

(Note 1) This item is present only when you install a CPU that supports this feature. For more information about
Intel CPUs' unique features, please visit Intel's website.
(Note 2) This item is present only when you install a memory module that supports this feature.
BIOS Setup - 38 -
`` Advanced Memory Settings

&& Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) (Note), System Memory Multiplier (SPD), Memory
Frequency(Mhz)
The settings under the three items above are synchronous to those under the same items on the Advanced
Frequency Settings menu.
&& Performance Enhance
Allows the system to operate at three different performance levels.

Normal Lets the system operate at its basic performance level.

Turbo Lets the system operate at its good performance level. (Default)

Extreme Lets the system operate at its best performance level.
&& DRAM Timing Selectable
Quick and Expert allows the Channel Interleaving, Rank Interleaving, and memory timing settings below
to be configurable. Options are: Auto (default), Quick, Expert.
&& Profile DDR Voltage
When using a non-XMP memory module or Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) is set to Disabled, this item
will display as 1.50V. When Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) is set to Profile1 or Profile2, this item will
display the value based on the SPD data on the XMP memory.
&& Profile VTT Voltage
The value displayed here is dependent on the CPU being used.
&& Channel Interleaving
Enables or disables memory channel interleaving. Enabled allows the system to simultaneously access
different channels of the memory to increase memory performance and stability. Auto lets the BIOS
automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& Rank Interleaving
Enables or disables memory rank interleaving. Enabled allows the system to simultaneously access different
ranks of the memory to increase memory performance and stability. Auto lets the BIOS automatically
configure this setting. (Default: Auto)

This item is present only when you install a memory module that supports this feature.
- 39 - BIOS Setup
`` Channel A/B/C/D Timing Settings

This sub-menu provides memory timing settings for each channel of memory. The respective timing setting
screens are configurable only when DRAM Timing Selectable is set to Quick or Expert. Note: Your system
may become unstable or fail to boot after you make changes on the memory timings. If this occurs, please reset
the board to default values by loading optimized defaults or clearing the CMOS values.

`` Advanced Voltage Settings

BIOS Setup - 40 -
`` 3D Power Control

&& PWM Phase Control

Allows you to automatically change the PWM phase according to the CPU load. The power-saving
levels are (from lowest to highest): eXm Perf (Extreme Performance ), High Perf (High Performance),
Perf (Performance), Balanced, Mid PWR (Mid Power), and Lite PWR (Light Power). Auto lets the BIOS
automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& Vcore Voltage Response
Allows you to configure the response time for Vcore changes using preset levels.

Auto Lets BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default)

Standard~Fast Selects Standard or Fast which represents different levels of the response time for
Vcore changes.

- 41 - BIOS Setup
&& Vcore Loadline Calibration
Allows you to set the Load-Line Calibration level for the Vcore. The levels are (from highest to lowest):
Extreme, Turbo, High, Medium, and Standard. Selecting a higher level keeps the Vcore more consistent
with what is set in BIOS under heavy load. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting and sets
the voltage following Intel's specifications. (Default: Auto)
&& IMC Voltage Loadline Calibration
Allows you to configure Load-Line Calibration for the IMC voltage. This item allows you to adjust the V-droop
value. The higher the V-droop value, the lower the output voltage will be under heavy load.

Auto Lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting and sets V-droop following Intel
specifications. (Default)
+0%~+180% Adjusts the V-droop value.
&& DDR CH(A/B) Voltage Loadline Calibration
Allows you to configure Load-Line Calibration for Channel A and Channel B memory voltage. This item
allows you to adjust the V-droop value. The higher the V-droop value, the lower the output voltage will be
under heavy load.

Auto Lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting and sets V-droop following Intel
specifications. (Default)
+0%~+180% Adjusts the V-droop value.
&& DDR CH(C/D) Voltage Loadline Calibration
Allows you to configure Load-Line Calibration for Channel C and Channel D memory voltage. This item
allows you to adjust the V-droop value. The higher the V-droop value, the lower the output voltage will be
under heavy load.

Auto Lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting and sets V-droop following Intel
specifications. (Default)
+0%~+180% Adjusts the V-droop value.
&& CPU Vtt Loadline Calibration
Allows you to configure Load-Line Calibration for the CPU Vtt voltage. This item allows you to adjust the
V-droop value. The higher the V-droop value, the lower the output voltage will be under heavy load.

Auto Lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting and sets V-droop following Intel
specifications. (Default)
+0%~+180% Adjusts the V-droop value.

&& Vcore Protection

Allows you to set the voltage limit on the Vcore for over-voltage protection. The adjustable range is from
150.0mV to 500.0mV. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& DDR CH(A/B) Voltage Protection
Allows you to set the voltage limit on Channel A and Channel B memory voltage for over-voltage protection.
The adjustable range is from 150.0mV to 500.0mV. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting.
(Default: Auto)
&& DDR CH(C/D) Voltage Protection
Allows you to set the voltage limit on Channel C and Channel D memory voltage for over-voltage protection.
The adjustable range is from 150.0mV to 500.0mV. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting.
(Default: Auto)

&& Vcore Current Protection

Allows you to set the current limit on the Vcore for over-current protection in terms of percentage. The
adjustable range is from 40.0% to 124.0%. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default:
Auto)

BIOS Setup - 42 -
&& CPU Vtt Current Protection
Allows you to set the current limit on the CPU Vtt voltage for over-current protection in terms of percentage.
The adjustable range is from 50.0% to 155.0%. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting.
(Default: Auto)
&& IMC Current Protection
Allows you to set the current limit on the IMC voltage for over-current protection in terms of percentage.
The adjustable range is from 50.0% to 155.0%. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting.
(Default: Auto)
&& DDR CH(A/B) Current Protection
Allows you to set the current limit on Channel A and Channel B memory voltage for over-current protection
in terms of percentage. The adjustable range is from 50.0% to 155.0%. Auto lets the BIOS automatically
configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& DDR CH(C/D) Current Protection
Allows you to set the current limit on Channel C and Channel D memory voltage for over-current protection
in terms of percentage. The adjustable range is from 50.0% to 155.0%. Auto lets the BIOS automatically
configure this setting. (Default: Auto)

&& Vcore PWM Thermal Protection

Allows you to set the PWM thermal protection threshold for the Vcore area. The adjustable range is from
125.0oC~140.0oC. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& DDR CH(A/B) PWM Thermal Protection
Allows you to set the PWM thermal protection threshold for the Channel A and Channel B memory area.
The adjustable range is from 125.0oC~140.0oC. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting.
(Default: Auto)
&& DDR CH(C/D) PWM Thermal Protection
Allows you to set the PWM thermal protection threshold for the Channel C and Channel D memory area.
The adjustable range is from 125.0oC~140.0oC. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting.
(Default: Auto)

&& CPU PWM Switch Rate

Allows you to set the CPU PWM frequency. The adjustable range is from 350.0KHz to 500.0KHz. Auto
lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& IMC PWM Switch Rate
Allows you to set the IMC PWM frequency. The adjustable range is from 350.0KHz to 500.0KHz. Auto lets
the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& CPU Vtt PWM Switch Rate
Allows you to set the CPU Vtt PWM frequency. The adjustable range is from 300.0KHz to 400.0KHz. Auto
lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& DDR CH(A/B) PWM Switch Rate
Allows you to set the PWM frequency for Channel A and Channel B memory. The adjustable range is from
300.0KHz to 400.0KHz. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&& DDR CH(C/D) PWM Switch Rate
Allows you to set the PWM frequency for Channel C and Channel D memory. The adjustable range is from
300.0KHz to 400.0KHz. Auto lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
`` CPU Core Voltage Control
This section provides CPU voltage control options.

- 43 - BIOS Setup
`` DRAM Voltage Control
This section provides memory voltage control options.
`` Chipset Voltage Control
This section provides Chipset voltage control options.

`` PC Health Status

&& Reset Case Open Status


Disabled Keeps or clears the record of previous chassis intrusion status. (Default)

Enabled Clears the record of previous chassis intrusion status and the Case Open field will show
"No" at next boot.

BIOS Setup - 44 -
&& Case Open
Displays the detection status of the chassis intrusion detection device attached to the motherboard CI
header. If the system chassis cover is removed, this field will show "Yes", otherwise it will show "No". To
clear the chassis intrusion status record, set Reset Case Open Status to Enabled, save the settings to
the CMOS, and then restart your system.
&& CPU Vcore/Dram Channel A/B/C/D Voltage/+5V/+12V/CPU VTT
Displays the current system voltages.
&& CPU/PCH/System Temperature
Displays current CPU/Chipset/System temperature.
&& CPU/System FAN Speed
Displays current CPU/system fan speeds.
&& CPU Warning Temperature
Sets the warning threshold for CPU temperature. When CPU temperature exceeds the threshold, BIOS
will emit warning sound. Options are: Disabled (default), 60oC/140oF, 70oC/158oF, 80oC/176oF, 90oC/194oF.
&& CPU/System Fan Fail Warning
Allows the system to emit warning sound if the CPU fan or system fan are not connected or fail. Check the
fan condition or fan connection when this occurs. (Default: Disabled)
&& CPU Fan Control mode

Auto  Lets the BIOS automatically detect the type of CPU fan installed and sets the optimal CPU
fan control mode. (Default)

Voltage Sets Voltage mode for a 3-pin CPU fan.

PWM Sets PWM mode for a 4-pin CPU fan.
Note: The Voltage mode can be set for a 3-pin CPU fan or a 4-pin CPU fan. However, for a 4-pin CPU
fan that is not designed following Intel PWM fan specifications, selecting PWM mode may not effectively
reduce the fan speed.
&& CPU Fan Speed Control
Allows you to determine whether to enable the CPU fan speed control function and adjust the fan speed.

Normal  Allows the CPU fan to run at different speeds according to the CPU temperature. You can
adjust the fan speed with EasyTune based on your system requirements. (Default)

Silent Allows the CPU fan to run at slow speeds.

Manual Allows you to control the CPU fan speed under the Slope PWM item.

Disabled Allows the CPU fan to run at full speeds.
&& Slope PWM
Allows you to control the CPU fan speed. This item is configurable only when CPU Fan Speed Control is
set to Manual. Options are: 0.75 PWM value /oC ~ 2.50 PWM value /oC.
&& System Fan Speed Control
Allows you to determine whether to enable the system fan speed control function and adjust the fan speed.

Normal  Allows the system fan to run at different speeds according to the system temperature. You
can adjust the fan speed with EasyTune based on your system requirements. (Default)

Silent Allows the system fan to run at slow speeds.

Manual Allows you to control the system fan speed under the Slope PWM item.

Disabled Allows the system fan to run at full speeds.
&& Slope PWM
Allows you to control the system fan speed. This item is configurable only when System Fan Speed Control
is set to Manual. Options are: 0.75 PWM value /oC ~ 2.50 PWM value /oC.

- 45 - BIOS Setup
2-4 System

This section provides information on your CPU, memory, motherboard model, and BIOS version. You can also
select the default language used by the BIOS and manually set the system time.

&& System Language

Selects the default language used by the BIOS.
&& System Date
Sets the system date. The date format is week (read-only), month, date, and year. Use <Enter> to switch
between the Month, Date, and Year fields and use the <Page Up> or <Page Down> key to set the desired
value.
&& System Time
Sets the system time. The time format is hour, minute, and second. For example, 1 p.m. is 13:0:0. Use
<Enter> to switch between the Hour, Minute, and Second fields and use the <Page Up> or <Page Down>
key to set the desired value.
&& Access Level
Displays the current access level depending on the type of password protection used. (If no password is
set, the default will display as Administrator.) The Administrator level allows you to make changes to all
BIOS settings; the User level only allows you to make changes to certain BIOS settings but not all.

`` ATA Port Information

This section provides information on the device connected to each SATA port controlled by Intel X79 Chipset.

BIOS Setup - 46 -
2-5 BIOS Features

&& Boot Option Priorities

Specifies the overall boot order from the available devices. For example, you can set hard drive as the
first priority (Boot Option #1) and DVD ROM drive as the second priority (Boot Option #2). The list only
displays the device with the highest priority for a specific type. For example, only hard drive defined as the
first priority on the Hard Drive BBS Priorities submenu will be presented here.
Removable storage devices that support GPT format will be prefixed with "UEFI:" string on the boot device
list. To boot from an operating system that supports GPT partitioning, select the device prefixed with "UEFI:"
string.
Or if you want to install an operating system that supports GPT partitioning such as Windows 7 64-bit, select
the optical drive that contains the Windows 7 64-bit installation disk and is prefixed with "UEFI:" string.

&& Hard Drive/CD/DVD ROM Drive/Floppy Drive/Network Device BBS Priorities

Specifies the boot order for a specific device type, such as hard drives, optical drives, floppy disk drives,
and devices that support Boot from LAN function, etc. Press <Enter> on this item to enter the submenu that
presents the devices of the same type that are connected. This item is present only if at least one device
for this type is installed.
&& Bootup NumLock State
Enables or disables Numlock feature on the numeric keypad of the keyboard after the POST. (Default:
Disabled)
&& Full Screen LOGO Show
Allows you to determine whether to display the GIGABYTE Logo at system startup. Disabled skips the
GIGABYTE Logo when the system starts up. (Default: Enabled)

&& PCI ROM Priority

Allows you to determine which Option ROM to launch. Options are Legacy ROM and EFI Compatible ROM.
(Default: EFI Compatible ROM)

- 47 - BIOS Setup
&& Init Display First
Specifies the first initiation of the monitor display from the installed PCI graphics card or the PCI Express
graphics card.

PCIe Slot 1 Sets the graphics card on the PCIEX16_1 slot as the first display. (Default)

PCIe Slot 2 Sets the graphics card on the PCIEX8_1 slot as the first display.

PCIe Slot 3 Sets the graphics card on the PCIEX16_2 slot as the first display.

PCIe Slot 4 Sets the graphics card on the PCIEX8_2 slot as the first display.

PCI Sets the graphics card on the PCI slot as the first display.
&& Limit CPUID Maximum (Note)
Allows you to determine whether to limit CPUID maximum value. Set this item to Disabled for Windows XP
operating system; set this item to Enabled for legacy operating system such as Windows NT4.0. (Default:
Disabled)
&& Execute Disable Bit (Note)
Enables or disables Intel Execute Disable Bit function. This function may enhance protection for the computer,
reducing exposure to viruses and malicious buffer overflow attacks when working with its supporting software
and system. (Default: Enabled)
&& Intel Virtualization Technology (Note)
Enables or disables Intel Virtualization Technology. Virtualization enhanced by Intel Virtualization Technology
will allow a platform to run multiple operating systems and applications in independent partitions. With
virtualization, one computer system can function as multiple virtual systems. (Default: Disabled)
&& Intel(R) I/OAT (Note)
Enables or disables Intel I/O Acceleration Technology. (Default: Disabled)
&& Intel(R) VT-d (Note)
Enables or disables Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O. (Default: Disabled)
&& Isoc (Note)
Determines whether to enable specific streams within the CPU and Chipset. (Default: Enabled)
&& Network stack
Disables or enables booting from the network to install a GPT format OS, such as installing the OS from
the Windows Deployment Services server. (Default: Disable Link)
&& IPv4 PXE Support
Enables or disables IPv4 PXE Support. This item is configurable only when Network stack is enabled.
&& IPv6 PXE Support
Enables or disables IPv6 PXE Support. This item is configurable only when Network stack is enabled.

(Note) This item is present only when you install a CPU that supports this feature. For more information about
Intel CPUs' unique features, please visit Intel's website.

BIOS Setup - 48 -
&& Administrator Password
Allows you to configure an administrator password. Press <Enter> on this item, type the password, and
then press <Enter>. You will be requested to confirm the password. Type the password again and press
<Enter>. You must enter the administrator password (or user password) at system startup and when entering
BIOS Setup. Differing from the user password, the administrator password allows you to make changes to
all BIOS settings.
&& User Password
Allows you to configure a user password. Press <Enter> on this item, type the password, and then press
<Enter>. You will be requested to confirm the password. Type the password again and press <Enter>.
You must enter the administrator password (or user password) at system startup and when entering BIOS
Setup. However, the user password only allows you to make changes to certain BIOS settings but not all.
To cancel the password, press <Enter> on the password item and when requested for the password, enter the
correct one first. When prompted for a new password, press <Enter> without entering any password. Press
<Enter> again when prompted to confirm.

- 49 - BIOS Setup
2-6 Peripherals

&& LAN PXE Boot Option ROM

Allows you to decide whether to activate the boot ROM integrated with the onboard LAN chip. (Default:
Disabled)
&& LAN Controller
Enables or disables the onboard LAN function. (Default: Enabled) (Default: Enabled)
If you wish to install a 3rd party add-in network card instead of using the onboard LAN, set this item to
Disabled.
&& Audio Device Control
Enables or disables the onboard audio function. (Default: Enabled)
If you wish to install a 3rd party add-in audio card instead of using the onboard audio, set this item to
Disabled.
&& USB 2.0 Devices (Intel X79 Chipset)
Enables or disables the USB 2.0 controllers integrated with the Intel X79 Chipset. (Default: Enabled)
&& Intel SATA Controller Mode (Intel X79 Chipset)
Enables or disables RAID for the SATA controllers integrated in the Intel X79 Chipset or configures the
SATA controllers to AHCI mode.

Disabled Disables this function.
 Mode
IDE Disables RAID for the SATA controllers and configures the SATA controllers to IDE
mode.

AHCI Mode Configures the SATA controllers to AHCI mode. Advanced Host Controller Interface
(AHCI) is an interface specification that allows the storage driver to enable advanced
Serial ATA features such as Native Command Queuing and hot plug. (Default)

RAID Mode Enables RAID for the SATA controllers.
&& Legacy USB Support
Allows USB keyboard/mouse to be used in MS-DOS. (Default: Enabled)

BIOS Setup - 50 -
&& XHCI Hand-off
Determines whether to enable XHCI Hand-off feature for an operating system without XHCI Hand-off
support. (Default: Enabled)
&& EHCI Hand-off
Determines whether to enable EHCI Hand-off feature for an operating system without EHCI Hand-off
support. (Default: Disabled)
&& Port 60/64 Emulation
Enables or disables emulation of I/O ports 64h and 60h. This should be enabled for full legacy support
for USB keyboards/mice in MS-DOS or in operating system that does not natively support USB devices.
(Default: Disabled)
&& USB Storage Devices
Displays a list of connected USB mass storage devices. This item appears only when a USB storage device
is installed.

`` Trusted Computing
&& TPM SUPPORT
Enables or disables Trusted Platform Module (TPM). Set this item to Enable when a TPM device is installed.
(Default: Disable)

&& Fresco USB3.0 Controller#1 (Fresco FL1009 USB 3.0 Controller, USB 3.0/2.0 ports routed
to the onboard F_USB30 header)
Enables or disables the Fresco FL1009 USB 3.0 controllers. (Default: Enabled)
&& Fresco USB3.0 Controller#2 (Fresco FL1009 USB 3.0 Controller, USB 3.0/2.0 ports on
the back panel)
Enables or disables the Fresco FL1009 USB 3.0 controllers. (Default: Enabled)

`` Super IO Configuration
This section provides information on the super I/O chip and allows you to configure the serial port.
&& Serial Port A
Enables or disables the onboard serial port. (Default: Enabled)

- 51 - BIOS Setup
`` Marvell ATA Controller Configuration

&& GSATA Controller (Marvell 88SE9172 Chip, GSATA3 6 and GSATA3 7 connectors)
Enables or disables RAID for the SATA controllers integrated in the Marvell 88SE9172 chip or configures
the SATA controllers to AHCI mode. The area below displays the current status of the two SATA ports.
 Mode
IDE Disables RAID for the SATA controllers and configures the SATA controllers to IDE
mode.

RAID Mode Enables RAID for the SATA controllers.

AHCI Mode Configures the SATA controllers to AHCI mode. Advanced Host Controller Interface
(AHCI) is an interface specification that allows the storage driver to enable advanced
Serial ATA features such as Native Command Queuing and hot plug. (Default)

Disabled Disables this function.
&& GSATA Controller (Marvell 88SE9172 Chip, GSATA3 8 and GSATA3 9 connectors)
Enables or disables RAID for the SATA controllers integrated in the Marvell 88SE9172 chip or configures
the SATA controllers to AHCI mode. The area below displays the current status of the two SATA ports.
 Mode
IDE Disables RAID for the SATA controllers and configures the SATA controllers to IDE
mode.

RAID Mode Enables RAID for the SATA controllers.

AHCI Mode Configures the SATA controllers to AHCI mode. Advanced Host Controller Interface
(AHCI) is an interface specification that allows the storage driver to enable advanced
Serial ATA features such as Native Command Queuing and hot plug. (Default)

Disabled Disables this function.
&& GSATA Controller (Marvell 88SE9172 Chip, eSATA connectors)
Enables or disables RAID for the SATA controllers integrated in the Marvell 88SE9172 chip or configures
the SATA controllers to AHCI mode. The area below displays the current status of the two SATA ports.
 Mode
IDE Disables RAID for the SATA controllers and configures the SATA controllers to IDE
mode.

RAID Mode Enables RAID for the SATA controllers.

AHCI Mode Configures the SATA controllers to AHCI mode. Advanced Host Controller Interface
(AHCI) is an interface specification that allows the storage driver to enable advanced
Serial ATA features such as Native Command Queuing and hot plug. (Default)

Disabled Disables this function.

BIOS Setup - 52 -
2-7 Power Management

&& AC BACK
Determines the state of the system after the return of power from an AC power loss.

Memory  The system returns to its last known awake state upon the return of the AC power.

Always On The system is turned on upon the return of the AC power.

Always Off The system stays off upon the return of the AC power. (Default)
&& Power On By Keyboard
Allows the system to be turned on by a PS/2 keyboard wake-up event.
Note: To use this function, you need an ATX power supply providing at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.

Disabled Disables this function. (Default)

Keyboard 98 Press POWER button on the Windows 98 keyboard to turn on the system.
 Key
Any Press any key to turn on the system.
&& Resume by Alarm
Determines whether to power on the system at a desired time. (Default: Disabled)
If enabled, set the date and time as following:

Wake up day: Turn on the system at a specific time on each day or on a specific day in a month.

Wake up hour/minute/second: Set the time at which the system will be powered on automatically.
Note: When using this function, avoid inadequate shutdown from the operating system or removal of the
AC power, or the settings may not be effective.
&& High Precision Event Timer (Note)
Enables or disables High Precision Event Timer (HPET) for Windows 7/Vista operating system. (Default:
Enabled)

(Note) Supported on Windows 7/Vista operating system only.

- 53 - BIOS Setup
&& Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN
Configures the way to turn off the computer in MS-DOS mode using the power button.

Instant-Off Press the power button and then the system will be turned off instantly. (Default)

Delay 4 Sec. Press and hold the power button for 4 seconds to turn off the system. If the power
button is pressed for less than 4 seconds, the system will enter suspend mode.
&& Wake on LAN from S5
Allows the system to be awakened from an ACPI sleep state by a Allows the system to be awakened from
S5 ACPI sleep state by a wake-up signal from the onboard LAN. (Default: Enabled)
&& ErP Support
Determines whether to let the system consume least power in S5 (shutdown) state. (Default: Disabled)
Note: When this item is set to Enabled, the following functions will become unavailable: PME event wake
up, power on by mouse, power on by keyboard, and wake on LAN.

BIOS Setup - 54 -
2-8 Save & Exit

&& Save & Exit Setup

Press <Enter> on this item and select Yes. This saves the changes to the CMOS and exits the BIOS Setup
program. Select No or press <Esc> to return to the BIOS Setup Main Menu.
&& Exit Without Saving
Press <Enter> on this item and select Yes. This exits the BIOS Setup without saving the changes made
in BIOS Setup to the CMOS. Select No or press <Esc> to return to the BIOS Setup Main Menu.

&& Load Optimized Defaults

Press <Enter> on this item and select Yes to load the optimal BIOS default settings. The BIOS defaults
settings help the system to operate in optimum state. Always load the Optimized defaults after updating
the BIOS or after clearing the CMOS values.

&& Boot Override

Allows you to select a device to boot immediately. Press <Enter> on the device you select and select Yes
to confirm. Your system will restart automatically and boot from that device.

&& Save Profiles

This function allows you to save the current BIOS settings to a profile. You can create up to 4 profiles and
save as Setup Profile 1~ Setup Profile 4. Press <Enter> to complete.
&& Load Profiles
If your system becomes unstable and you have loaded the BIOS default settings, you can use this function
to load the BIOS settings from a profile created before, without the hassles of reconfiguring the BIOS
settings. First select the profile you wish to load and then press <Enter> to complete.

- 55 - BIOS Setup
BIOS Setup - 56 -
 Chapter 3 Drivers Installation
•• Before installing the drivers, first install the operating system.
•• After installing the operating system, insert the motherboard driver disk into your optical drive.
The driver Autorun screen is automatically displayed which looks like that shown in the screen
shot below. (If the driver Autorun screen does not appear automatically, go to My Computer,
double-click the optical drive and execute the [Link] program.)

3-1 Installing Chipset Drivers

After inserting the driver disk, "Xpress Install" will automatically scan your system and then list all the drivers
that are recommended to install. You can click the Install All button and "Xpress Install" will install all the rec-
ommended drivers. Or click Install Single Items to manually select the drivers you wish to install.

•• Please ignore the popup dialog box(es) (e.g. the Found New Hardware Wizard) displayed
when "Xpress Install" is installing the drivers. Failure to do so may affect the driver installation.
•• Some device drivers will restart your system automatically during the driver installation. After the
system restart, "Xpress Install" will continue to install other drivers.
•• After "Xpress Install" installs all of the drivers, a dialog box will appear asking whether to install
new GIGABYTE utilities. Click Yes to automatically install the utilities. Or click No if you want to
manually select the utilities to install on the Application Software page later.
•• For USB 2.0 driver support under the Windows XP operating system, please install the Windows
XP Service Pack 1 or later. After installing the SP1 (or later), if a question mark still exists in
Universal Serial Bus Controller in Device Manager, please remove the question mark (by
right-clicking your mouse and select Uninstall) and restart the system. (The system will then
autodetect and install the USB 2.0 driver.)

- 57 - Drivers Installation
3-2 Application Software
This page displays all the utilities and applications that GIGABYTE develops and some free software. You
can click the Install button on the right of an item to install it.

3-3 Technical Manuals

This page provides the content descriptions for this driver disk.

Drivers Installation - 58 -
3-4 Contact
For the detailed contact information of the GIGABYTE Taiwan headquarter or worldwide branch offices, click
the URL on this page to link to the GIGABYTE website.

3-5 System
This page provides the basic system information.

- 59 - Drivers Installation
3-6 Download Center
To update the BIOS, drivers, or applications, click the Download Center button to link to the GIGABYTE
website. The latest version of the BIOS, drivers, or applications will be displayed.

3-7 New Program

This page provides a quick link to GIGABYTE's lately developed utilities for users to install. You can click the
Install button on the right of an item to install it.

Drivers Installation - 60 -
 Chapter 4 Unique Features
4-1 BIOS Update Utilities
GIGABYTE motherboards provide two unique BIOS update tools, Q-Flash™ and @BIOS™. GIGABYTE Q-Flash
and @BIOS are easy-to-use and allow you to update the BIOS without the need to enter MS-DOS mode.
Additionally, this motherboard features the DualBIOS™ design, which enhances protection for the safety and
stability of your computer by adding one more physical BIOS chip.

What is DualBIOS™?
Motherboards that support DualBIOS have two BIOS onboard, a main BIOS and
a backup BIOS. Normally, the system works on the main BIOS. However, if the
main BIOS is corrupted or damaged, the backup BIOS will take over on the next system boot and copy the
BIOS file to the main BIOS to ensure normal system operation. For the sake of system safety, users cannot
update the backup BIOS manually.

What is Q-Flash™?
With Q-Flash you can update the system BIOS without having to enter operating
systems like MS-DOS or Window first. Embedded in the BIOS, the Q-Flash tool
frees you from the hassles of going through complicated BIOS flashing process.

What is @BIOS™?
@BIOS allows you to update the system BIOS while in the Windows environment.
@BIOS will download the latest BIOS file from the nearest @BIOS server site
and update the BIOS.

4-1-1 Updating the BIOS with the Q-Flash Utility

A. Before You Begin
1. From GIGABYTE's website, download the latest compressed BIOS update file that matches your
motherboard model.
2. Extract the file and save the new BIOS file (e.g. X79UP4.F1) to your USB flash drive or hard drive. Note:
The USB flash drive or hard drive must use FAT32/16/12 file system.
3. Restart the system. During the POST, press the <End> key to enter Q-Flash. Note: You can access Q-Flash
by either pressing the <End> key during the POST or pressing the <F8> key in BIOS Setup. However, if the
BIOS update file is saved to a hard drive in RAID/AHCI mode or a hard drive attached to an independent
SATA controller, use the <End> key during the POST to access Q-Flash.

Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, please do it with caution. Inadequate BIOS flashing may
result in system malfunction.

- 61 - Unique Features
B. Updating the BIOS
In the main menu of Q-Flash, use the keyboard or mouse to select an item to execute. When updating the
BIOS, choose the location where the BIOS file is saved. The following procedure assumes that you save the
BIOS file to a USB flash drive.

Step 1:
1. Insert the USB flash drive containing the BIOS file into the computer. In the main menu of Q-Flash, select
Update BIOS From Drive.
•• The Save BIOS to Drive option allows you to save the current BIOS file.
•• Q-Flash only supports USB flash drive or hard drives using FAT32/16/12 file system.
•• If the BIOS update file is saved to a hard drive in RAID/AHCI mode or a hard drive attached to
an independent SATA controller, use the <End> key during the POST to access Q-Flash.

2. Select USB Flash Drive.

Q-Flash Utility v1.02
Model Name : X79-UP4
BIOS Version : F2a
BIOS Date : 07/16/2012
Flash Type/Size : MXIC 25L6465E/6406E 8MB
Update BIOS From Drive
Save BIOS
Select to Drive
Device
Return to BIOS setup
USB Flash Drive

3. Select the BIOS update file.

Make sure the BIOS update file matches your motherboard model.

Step 2:
The process of the system reading the BIOS file from the USB flash drive is displayed on the screen. When
the message "Are you sure to update BIOS?" appears, select Yes to begin the BIOS update. The monitor will
display the update process.
•• Do not turn off or restart the system when the system is reading/updating the BIOS.
•• Do not remove the USB flash drive or hard drive when the system is updating the BIOS.

Step 3:
When the update process is complete, select Reboot to reboot the system.

Q-Flash

BIOS update is completed.

Power off
Reboot

Unique Features - 62 -
Step 4:
During the POST, press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Select Load Optimized Defaults on the Save & Exit
screen and press <Enter> to load BIOS defaults. System will re-detect all peripheral devices after a BIOS update,
so we recommend that you reload BIOS defaults.

Select Yes to load BIOS defaults

Step 5:
Select Save & Exit Setup and press <Enter>. And then select Yes to save settings to CMOS and exit BIOS
Setup. The procedure is complete after the system restarts.

- 63 - Unique Features
4-1-2 Updating the BIOS with the @BIOS Utility
A. Before You Begin
1. In Windows, close all applications and TSR (Terminate and Stay Resident) programs. This helps prevent
unexpected failures when performing a BIOS update.
2. During the BIOS update process, ensure the Internet connection is stable and do NOT interrupt the Internet
connection (for example, avoid a power loss or switching off the Internet). Failure to do so may result in a
corrupted BIOS or a system that is unable to start.
3. Do not use the G.O.M. (GIGABYTE Online Management) function when using @BIOS.
4. GIGABYTE product warranty does not cover any BIOS damage or system failure resulting from an
inadequate BIOS flashing.

B. Using @BIOS

1. Update the BIOS Using the Internet Update Function:

Click Update BIOS from GIGABYTE Server, select the @BIOS server site closest to your location and
then download the BIOS file that matches your motherboard model. Follow the on-screen instructions to
complete.
If the BIOS update file for your motherboard is not present on the @BIOS server site, please
manually download the BIOS update file from GIGABYTE's website and follow the instructions in
"Update the BIOS without Using the Internet Update Function" below.
2. Update the BIOS without Using the Internet Update Function:
Click Update BIOS from File, then select the location where you save the BIOS update file obtained from
the Internet or through other source. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete.

3. Save the Current BIOS File:

Click Save Current BIOS to File to save the current BIOS file.

4. Load BIOS Defaults after BIOS Update:

Select the Load CMOS default after BIOS update check box and then the system will automatically load
BIOS defaults after BIOS update and after the system restarts.

C. After Updating the BIOS

Restart your system after updating the BIOS.

Make sure that the BIOS file to be flashed matches your motherboard model. Updating the
BIOS with an incorrect BIOS file could cause your system not to boot.

Unique Features - 64 -
4-2 EasyTune 6
GIGABYTE's EasyTune 6 is a simple and easy-to-use interface that allows users to fine-tune their system
settings or do overclock/overvoltage in Windows environment. The user-friendly EasyTune 6 interface also
includes tabbed pages for CPU and memory information, letting users read their system-related information
without the need to install additional software.

The EasyTune 6 Interface

Tabs Information
Tab Function
The CPU tab provides information on the installed CPU and motherboard.
The Memory tab provides information on the installed memory module(s). You can select memory
module on a specific slot to see its information.
The Tuner tab allows you to change memory settings and voltages.
•• Quick Boost mode provides you with 3 levels of CPU frequency/base clock to choose to
achieve desired system performance.
After making changes in Quick Boost mode or clicking Default to restore to default values, be
sure to restart your system for these changes to take effect.
•• Easy mode provides information on CPU/memory.
•• Advanced mode allows you to individually change system clock settings and voltages settings
using the sliders.
•• Save allows you to save the current settings to a new profile (.txt file).
•• Load allows you to load previous settings from a profile.
After making changes in Easy mode/Advanced mode, be sure to click Set for these changes to take
effect or click Default to restore to default values.
The Graphics tab allows you to change the core clock and memory clock for your AMD or NVIDIA
graphics card.
The Smart tab allows you to specify a Smart Fan mode. Smart Fan Advanced mode allows the fan
speed to be changed linearly based on the temperature thresholds you set.
The HW Monitor tab allows you to monitor hardware temperature, voltage and fan speed and set
temperature/fan speed alarm. You can choose the alert sound from the buzzer or use your own sound
file (.wav file).

Available functions in EasyTune 6 may differ by motherboard model. Grayed-out area(s) indicates that the item is not
configurable or the function is not supported.

Incorrectly doing overclock/overvoltage may result in damage to the hardware components such as CPU, chipset, and
memory and reduce the useful life of these components. Before you do the overclock/overvoltage, make sure that you
fully know each function of EasyTune 6, or system instability or other unexpected results may occur.

- 65 - Unique Features
4-3 Q-Share
Q-Share is an easy and convenient data sharing tool. After configuring your LAN connection settings and Q-Share,
you are able to share your data with computers on the same network, making full use of Internet resources.

Directions for using Q-Share

After installing Q-Share from the motherboard driver disk, go to Start>All Programs>GIGABYTE>[Link]
to launch the Q-Share tool. Find the Q-Share icon in the notification area and right-click on this icon to
configure the data sharing settings.

Figure 1. Data Sharing Disabled Figure 2. Data Sharing Enabled

Options Descriptions
Option Description
Connect ... Displays the computers with data sharing enabled
Enable Incoming Folder ... Enables data sharing
Disable Incoming Folder ... Disables data sharing
Open Incoming Folder : Accesses the shared data folder
C:\Q-ShareFolder
Change Incoming Folder : Changes the data folder to be shared (Note)
C:\Q-ShareFolder
Update Q-Share ... Updates Q-Share online
About Q-Share ... Displays the current Q-Share version
Exit... Exits Q-Share

(Note) This option is available only when data sharing is NOT enabled.

Unique Features - 66 -
 Chapter 5 Appendix
5-1 Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)
RAID Levels
RAID 0 RAID 1 RAID 5 RAID 10
Minimum
Number of Hard ≥2 2 ≥3 ≥4
Drives
Array Capacity Number of hard Size of the smallest (Number of hard (Number of hard
drives * Size of the drive drives -1) * Size of drives/2) * Size of the
smallest drive the smallest drive smallest drive
Fault Tolerance No Yes Yes Yes

To configure SATA hard drive(s), follow the steps below:

A. Install SATA hard drive(s) in your computer.
B. Configure SATA controller mode in BIOS Setup.
C. Configure a RAID array in RAID BIOS. (Note 1)
D. Install the SATA RAID/AHCI driver and operating system. (Note 2)

Before you begin

Please prepare:
•• At least two SATA hard drives (to ensure optimal performance, it is recommended that you use two hard
drives with identical model and capacity). If you do not want to create RAID, you may prepare only one
hard drive.
•• Windows 7/Vista/XP (Note 3) setup disk.
•• Motherboard driver disk.
•• A USB floppy disk drive (needed during Windows XP installation) (Note 3)
•• An empty formatted floppy disk (needed during Windows XP installation) (Note 3)

5-1-1 Configuring Intel X79 SATA Controllers

A. Installing SATA hard drive(s) in your computer

Attach one end of the SATA signal cable to the rear of the SATA hard drive and the other end to available SATA
port on the motherboard. If there is more than one SATA controller on your motherboard, refer to "Chapter 1,"
"Hardware Installation," to identify the SATA controller for the SATA port. (For example, on this motherboard, the
SATA3 0/1 (Note 4) and SATA2 2/3/4/5 ports are supported by the X79 Chipset.) Then connect the power connector
from your power supply to the hard drive.

(Note 1) Skip this step if you do not want to create RAID array on the SATA controller.
(Note 2) Required when the SATA controller is set to AHCI or RAID mode.
(Note 3) The X79 SATA RAID/AHCI driver does not support Windows XP 32-bit. To install Windows XP 64-bit,
search for the installation instructions on the Support & Downloads\FAQ page on our website.
(Note 4) When a RAID set is built across the SATA 6Gb/s and SATA 3Gb/s channels, the system performance
of the RAID set may vary depending on the devices being connected.
- 67 - Appendix
B. Configuring SATA controller mode in BIOS Setup
Make sure to configure the SATA controller mode correctly in system BIOS Setup.

Step 1:
Turn on your computer and press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup during the POST (Power-On Self-Test). To
create RAID, set Intel SATA Controller Mode under the Peripherals menu to RAID Mode (Figure 1). If you
do not want to create RAID, set this item to IDE Mode or AHCI Mode.

Figure 1

Step 2:
Save changes and exit BIOS Setup.

The BIOS Setup menus described in this section may differ from the exact settings for your motherboard.
The actual BIOS Setup menu options you will see shall depend on the motherboard you have and
the BIOS version.

Appendix - 68 -
C. Configuring a RAID array in RAID BIOS
Enter the RAID BIOS setup utility to configure a RAID array. Skip this step and proceed with the installation of
Windows operating system for a non-RAID configuration.

Step 1:
After the POST memory test begins and before the operating system boot begins, look for a message which
says "Press <Ctrl-I> to enter Configuration Utility" (Figure 2). Press <Ctrl> + <I> to enter the RAID Configuration
Utility.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

RAID Volumes :
None defined.

Physical Devices :
ID Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk

Press <CTRL - I> to enter Configuration Utility..

Figure 2

Step 2:
After you press <Ctrl> + <I>, the MAIN MENU screen will appear (Figure 3).

Create RAID Volume

If you want to create a RAID array, select Create RAID Volume in MAIN MENU and press <Enter>.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]

1. Create RAID Volume 3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID

2. Delete RAID Volume 4. Exit

[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
None defined.

Physical Deivces :
ID Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk

[hi]-Select [ESC]-Exit [ENTER]-Select Menu

Figure 3

- 69 - Appendix
Step 3:
After entering the CREATE VOLUME MENU screen, enter a volume name with 1~16 letters (letters cannot be
special characters) under the Name item and press <Enter>. Then, select a RAID level (Figure 4). RAID levels
supported include RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and RAID 5 (the selections available depend on the number of
the hard drives being installed). Press <Enter> to proceed.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : RAID0(Stripe)
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : 128KB
Capacity : 111.7 GB

Create Volume
[ HELP ]

RAID0: Stripes data (performance).

[hi]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [ENTER]-Select

Figure 4

Step 4:
Under Disks item, select the hard drives to be included in the RAID array. If only two hard drives are installed,
they will be automatically assigned to the array. Set the stripe block size (Figure 5) if necessary. The stripe block
size can be set from 4 KB to 128 KB. Once you have selected the stripe block size, press <Enter>.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : RAID0(Stripe)
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : 128KB
Capacity : 111.7 GB

Create Volume
[ HELP ]
The following are typical values:
RAID0 - 128KB
RAID10 - 64KB
RAID5 - 64KB

[hi]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [ENTER]-Select

Figure 5

Appendix - 70 -
Step 5:
Enter the array capacity and press <Enter>. Finally press <Enter> on the Create Volume item to begin creating
the RAID array. When prompted to confirm whether to create this volume, press <Y> to confirm or <N> to
cancel (Figure 6).
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : RAID0(Stripe)
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : 128 KB
Capacity : 111.7 GB

Create Volume
WARNING : ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.
[ HELP ]
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N) :

Press ENTER to create the specified volume.

[hi]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [ENTER]-Select

Figure 6

When completed, you can see detailed information about the RAID array in the DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION
section, including the RAID level, stripe block size, array name, and array capacity, etc. (Figure 7)
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]

1. Create RAID Volume 3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID

2. Delete RAID Volume 4. Exit

[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
ID Name Level Strip Size Status Bootable
0 Volume0 RAID0(Stripe) 128KB 223.6GB Normal Yes

Physical Devices :
ID Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Member Disk(0)
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Member Disk(0)

[hi]-Select [ESC]-Exit [ENTER]-Select Menu

Figure 7

To exit the RAID BIOS utility, press <Esc> or select 4. Exit in MAIN MENU.

Now, you can proceed to install the SATA RAID/AHCI driver and operating system.

- 71 - Appendix
Delete RAID Volume
To delete a RAID array, select Delete RAID Volume in MAIN MENU and press <Enter>. In the DELETE
VOLUME MENU section, use the up or down arrow key to select the array to be deleted and press <Delete>.
When prompted to confirm your selection (Figure 8), press <Y> to confirm or <N> to abort.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ DELETE VOLUME MENU ]
Name Level Drives Capacity Status Bootable
Volume0 RAID0(Stripe) 2 223.6GB Normal Yes

[ DELETE VOLUME VERIFICATION ]

ALL DATA IN THE VOLUME WILL BE LOST!
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
Are you sure you want to delete
[ HELP ] "Volume0"? (Y/N) :

Deleting a volume will reset the disks to non-RAID.

WARNING: ALL DISK DATA WILL BE DELETED.

[hi]-Select [ESC]- Previous Menu [DEL]-Delete Volume

Figure 8

Appendix - 72 -
5-1-2 Configuring Marvell 88SE9172 SATA Controllers

A. Installing SATA hard drive(s) in your computer

Attach one end of the SATA signal cable to the rear of the SATA hard drive and the other end to available
SATA port on the motherboard. The Marvell 88SE9172 SATA controllers control the onboard GSATA3 6/7/8/9
connectors and the eSATA ports on the back panel. Then connect the power connector from your power supply
to the hard drive.

B. Configuring SATA controller and RAID mode in BIOS Setup

Make sure to configure the SATA controller mode correctly in system BIOS Setup.

Step 1:
Turn on your computer and press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup during the POST. To create RAID, go to
Peripherals and set GSATA Controller on the Marvell ATA Controller Configuration submenu to RAID Mode
(Figure 2). If you do not want to create RAID, set this item to IDE Mode or AHCI Mode.

Figure 1

The BIOS Setup menus described in this section may differ from the exact settings for your motherboard.
The actual BIOS Setup menu options you will see shall depend on the motherboard you have and
the BIOS version.

- 73 - Appendix
 Figure 2
The first GSATA Controller item controls the "GSATA3 6" and "GSATA3 7" connectors. The second
GSATA Controller item controls the "GSATA3 8" and "GSATA3 9" connectors. The third GSATA
Controller item controls the eSATA ports on the back panel.
Step 2:
Save changes and exit BIOS Setup.

C. Configuring a RAID array in RAID BIOS

Enter the RAID BIOS setup utility to configure a RAID array. Skip this step and proceed to the installation of
Windows operating system for a non-RAID configuration.
After the POST memory test begins and before the operating system boot begins, look for a message which
says "Press <Ctrl>+<M> to enter BIOS Setup or <Space> to continue" (Figure 3). Press <Ctrl> + <M> to enter
the RAID setup utility.
Marvell 88SE91xx Adapter - BIOS Version 1.0.1.0025
PCIe x2 5.0Gbps
Mode: RAID
[Virtual Disks]
No Virtual Disk!
[Physical Disks]
Adapter 0
Port Disk Name Size Max Speed
S0 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s
S1 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s

Press <Ctrl>+<M> to enter BIOS Setup or <Space> to continue_

Figure 3
Appendix - 74 -
On the main screen of the RAID setup utility (Figure 4), use the left or right arrow key to move through tabs.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter ] [ Devices ] [ RAID ]
Adapter 0

Vendor ID Device ID: 1B4B:91A2

BIOS Version: 1.0.1.0025
PCI Slot: 00
IRQ Number: 0A
Raid Mode: RAID0 RAID1

ENTER/SPACE: Select, ESC: Back/Exit

Figure 4

Create a RAID Array:

Step 1: On the main screen, press <Enter> on the RAID tab. Then the RAID Config menu appears (Figure 5).
Press <Enter> on the Create VD item.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter] [ Devices] [ RAID ]

RAID Config
Create VD
Delete VD
Wipe out disk
Spare Management

ENTER/SPACE: Select, ESC: Back/Exit

Figure 5

- 75 - Appendix
Step 2: The next screen displays the two hard drives you installed. Press <Enter> or <Space> on the two hard
drives respectively to add them into the RAID array. Selected hard drives are marked with an asterisk (Figure
6). Then press <Enter> on NEXT.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter] [ Devices] [ RAID ]

RAID Config
Select free disks to create
Port Disk Name Size Max Speed Status
* S0 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s FREE
* S1 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s FREE
NEXT

ENTER/SPACE: Select, ESC: Back/Exit

Figure 6

Step 3: On the Create VD menu (Figure 7), use the up or down arrow key to move the selection bar to select
an item and press <Enter> to display options. Set the required items in sequence and press the down arrow
key to proceed to the next item.
Sequence:
1. RAID Level: Select a RAID level. Options include RAID 0 (Stripe) and RAID 1 (Mirror).
2. Stripe Size: Select the stripe block size. Options include 32 KB, 64 KB, and 128 KB.
3. Quick Init: Select whether to quickly erase old data on the hard drives when creating the array.
4. Cache Mode: Select write-back or write-through cache.
5. VD Name: Enter an array name with 1~10 letters (letters cannot be special characters).
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter] [ Devices] [ RAID ]

RAID Config
Select free disks to create
Port
Create VD Disk Name Size Max Speed Status
* S0 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s FREE
RAID Level : RAID0
* S1 Max SizeSATA:(MB):WDC WD800JD-22LSA0
152478 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s FREE
Stripe Size : 64KB
Quick Init : NO
Cache Mode : WriteBack
VD Name :
Disks ID : 01
NEXT

ENTER/SPACE: Select, ESC: Back/Exit

Figure 7

Appendix - 76 -
6. NEXT: After completing the settings above, move to NEXT and press <Enter> to begin creating the array.
When prompted to confirm, press <Y> to confirm or <N> to cancel (Figure 8).
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter] [ Devices] [ RAID ]

RAID Config
Select free disks to create
Port
Create VD Disk Name Size Max Speed Status
* S0 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s FREE
RAID Level : RAID0
* S1 Max SizeSATA:(MB):WDC WD800JD-22LSA0
152478 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s FREE
NEXT Stripe Size : 64KB
Quick Init : NO
Cache Mode : WriteBack
VD Name : GBT
Disk ID : 01
NEXT

Create the VD?[Y]

Figure 8

When completed, the RAID tab will display the new array. (Figure 9)
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter ] [ Devices ] [ RAID ]

[Virtual Disks]
ID Name Size Level Status Stripe CacheMode
0 GBT 152.4GB RAID0 ONLINE 64KB WriteBack
[Physical Disks]
Port Disk Name Size Max Speed Status
S0 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s ASSIGNED
S1 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s ASSIGNED

ENTER/SPACE: Select, ESC: Back/Exit

Figure 9

To exit the RAID BIOS utility, press <Esc> on the main screen and press <Y> to confirm.
Now, you can proceed to install the operating system.

- 77 - Appendix
Delete the RAID Array:
To deleted the existing array, press <Enter> on the RAID tab and select Delete VD. When the Delete VD menu
appears, press <Enter> on the array to select it and then press <Enter> on NEXT. When prompted, press <Y> to
confirm (Figure 10). When the message "Do you want to delete the VD's MBR?" appears, press <Y> to clear
the MBR or press other keys to ignore.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter] [ Devices] [ RAID ]

RAID Config
Delete VD
ID Name Size Level Status Stripe CacheMode
*0 GBT 152.4GB RAID0 ONLINE 64KB WriteBack

NEXT

Delete the VD?[Y]

Figure 10

Use the Marvell Storage Utility in the Operating System:

With the Marvell Storage utility, you can set up an array or view the current array status in the operating system.
To install the utility, insert the motherboard driver disk, then go to Application Software\Install Application
Software and select Marvell Storage Utility to install. Note: After the installation, you must login the utility with
the same account name and password that you use to login the operating system. If you did not set the account
password before, click Login to enter the Marvell Storage Utility directly. Please note that if you set the hard
drive(s) to IDE or AHCI mode, it is normal that you will not see the hard drive(s) in the Marvell Storage Utility.

Appendix - 78 -
5-1-3 Installing the SATA RAID/AHCI Driver and Operating System
With the correct BIOS settings, you are ready to install the operating system.

A. Installing Windows 7/Vista

(The following instructions use Windows 7 as the example operating system.)

Step 1:
Boot from the Windows 7/Vista setup disk and perform standard OS installation steps. When you arrive at the
"Where do you want to install Windows?" screen, select Load Driver.

Step 2:
Insert the motherboard driver disk and then browse to the location of the driver. The locations of the drivers
are as follows:
For the Intel X79:
RAID/AHCI driver for Windows 32-Bit:\BootDrv\iRST\32Bit
RAID/AHCI driver for Windows 64-Bit:\BootDrv\iRST\64Bit

For the Marvell 88SE9172:

RAID driver for Windows 32-bit: \BootDrv\Marvell\RAID\i386
RAID driver for Windows 64-bit: \BootDrv\Marvell\RAID\amd64
AHCI driver for Windows 32-bit: \BootDrv\Marvell\AHCI\Floppy32
AHCI driver for Windows 64-bit: \BootDrv\Marvell\AHCI\Floppy64

Step 3:
For Intel X79, select Intel(R) C600 Series Chipset SATA RAID Controller (Figure 1). For Marvell 88SE9172,
select Marvell 91xx SATA 6G RAID Controller (Figure 2). Click Next to load the driver and continue the OS
installation.

Figure 1 Figure 2

- 79 - Appendix
B. Installing Windows XP (For the Marvell 88SE9172) (Note)
Before installing Windows XP, connect a USB floppy disk drive to your computer first because you need to install
the SATA RAID/AHCI driver from a floppy disk that contains the driver during the OS installation. Without the
driver, the hard drive(s) may not be recognized during the Windows setup process. First, copy the driver from
the motherboard driver disk to a floppy disk. Refer to the methods below.

Method A:
•• For RAID mode, copy all files in the \BootDrv\Marvell\RAID\Floppy32 folder to your floppy disk. To install
Windows 64-Bit, copy the files in the Floppy64 folder.
•• For AHCI mode, depending on whether you want to install the 32- or 64-bit version, copy the files in the
AHCI\Floppy32 or AHCI\Floppy64 folder.

Method B:
Steps:
1: Use an alternative system and insert the motherboard driver disk.
2: From your optical drive folder, double click the [Link] file in the BootDrv folder. A Command Prompt
window will open similar to that in Figure 3.
3: Insert the blank formatted disk (if you're using a USB floppy disk drive, make sure it is designated as drive A).
Select the controller driver by pressing the corresponding letter from the menu and press <Enter>. For example,
from the menu in Figure 3, select 7) Marvell RAID driver. (For AHCI drive(s), select Marvell AHCI driver.)

Your system will then automatically copy the driver files to the floppy disk. Press any key to exit when
finished.

Figure 3

(Note) The X79 SATA RAID/AHCI driver does not support Windows XP 32-bit. To install Windows XP 64-bit,
search for the installation instructions on the Support & Downloads\FAQ page on our website.

Appendix - 80 -
Refer to the following for installing the driver during the Windows setup process.

Step 1:
Restart your system to boot from the Windows XP setup disk and press <F6> as soon as you see the message
"Press F6 if you need to install a 3rd party SCSI or RAID driver." A screen will then appear asking you to specify
an additional SCSI adapter. Press <S>.

Step 2:
Insert the floppy disk containing the SATA RAID/AHCI driver and press <Enter>. Select either the 32-bit or
64-bit items depending on whether you want to install the 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows XP (Figure 4).
Both of the Marvell shared library and Marvell 91xx SATA Controller need to be installed. Below we assume
that you are installing the 32-bit version. First select Marvell shared library for 32bit (install first) and press
<Enter>. On the next screen, press <S> to return to the screen in Figure 4. Then select Marvell 91xx SATA
Controller 32bit Driver and press <Enter>. When both of the two drivers appear on the confirmation screen,
press <Enter> to continue the driver installation.

Windows Setup

You have chosen to configure a SCSI Adapter for use with Windows,
using a device support disk provided by an adapter manufacturer.

Select the SCSI Adapter you want from the following list, or press ESC
to return to the previous screen.

Marvell shared library for 32bit (install first)

Marvell 91xx SATA Controller 32bit Driver
Marvell shared library for 64bit (install first)
Marvell 91xx SATA Controller 64bit Driver

ENTER=Select F3=Exit

Figure 4

Step 3:
On the next screen, press <Enter> to continue the driver installation. After the driver installation, you can proceed
with the Windows XP installation.

- 81 - Appendix
C. Rebuilding an Array
Rebuilding is the process of restoring data to a hard drive from other drives in the array. Rebuilding applies
only to fault-tolerant arrays such as RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 arrays. The procedures below assume a
new drive is added to replace a failed drive to rebuild a RAID 1 array. (Note: The new drive must have equal or
greater capacity than the old one.)
For the Intel X79:
Turn off your computer and replace the failed hard drive with a new one. Restart your computer.

•• Enabling Automatic Rebuild

Step 1:
When the message "Press <Ctrl-I> to enter Configuration Utility" appears, press <Ctrl> + <I> to enter the RAID
Configuration Utility. The following screen appears after you enter the RAID Configuration Utility.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]

1. Create RAID Volume[ DEGRADED VOLUME DETECTED3.] Reset Disks to Non-RAID

2. Delete
"Degraded volumeRAID Volume
and disk available for rebuilding detected. Selecting4. Exit
a disk initiates a rebuild. Rebuild completes in the operating system.
[ DISK/VOLUME
Select the port of the destination disk INFORMATION
for rebuilding (ESC to exit): ]
RAID Volumes :
Port Drive Model
None defined. Serial # Size
1 WDC WD800JD-22LS WD-WMAM9W736333 111.7GB
Physical Disks :
ID [hi]-Previous/NextSerial #
Drive Model [ENTER]-SelectSize [ESC]-Exit
Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Member Disk (0)
1 WDC WD800JD-22LS WD-WMAM9W736333 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk

[hi]-Select [ESC]-Exit [ENTER]-Select Menu

Step 2:
Select the new hard drive to add into the array to be rebuilt and press <Enter>. The following screen appears,
indicating that an automatic rebuild will be performed after you enter the operating system. You can access Intel
Rapid Storage Technology enterprise from All Programs in the Start menu. You will see that the status of
the array displays as Rebuilding. If you do not enable automatic rebuild on this stage, you have to manually
rebuild the array in the operating system (see the next page for more details).
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology enterprise - SATA Option ROM - 3.0.0.1184
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]
1. Create RAID Volume 3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID
2. Delete RAID Volume 4. Exit

[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
ID Name Level Strip Size Status Bootable
0 Volume0 RAID1(Mirror) N/A 111.7GB Rebuild Yes

Physical Devices :
ID Devices Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Member Disk (0)
1 WDC WD800JD-22LS WD-WMAM9W736333 111.7GB Member Disk (0)
Volumes with "Rebuild" status will be rebuilt within the operating system.

[hi]-Select [ESC]-Exit [ENTER]-Select Menu

Appendix - 82 -
•• Performing the Rebuild in the Operating System
While in the operating system, make sure the Chipset driver and Intel Rapid Storage Technology Enterprise
RAID Port Drivers have been installed from the motherboard driver disk. Then launch Intel Rapid Storage
Technology enterprise from All Programs in the Start menu.

Step 2:
Select a new drive to rebuild the RAID and click
Step 1: Rebuild.
On the right panel of the screen, click Rebuild to
another disk under Volume Properties.

The Status item on the right of the screen and Step 3:

the Information section on the bottom display After the RAID volume rebuilding, the Status will
the rebuild progress. display as Normal.

- 83 - Appendix
For the Marvell 88SE9172:

Turn off your computer and replace the failed hard drive with a new one. Restart your computer. To enable an
automatic rebuild in the operating system, you have to set the new hard drive as a Spare drive in the RAID
setup utility first.

•• Enabling Automatic Rebuild

Step 1:
When the message "Press <Ctrl>+<M> to enter BIOS Setup or <Space> to continue" appears, press <Ctrl> +
<M> to enter the RAID setup utility. On the main screen, press <Enter> on the RAID tab and then press <Enter>
on Spare Management.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter] [ Devices] [ RAID ]

RAID Config
Create VD
Delete VD
Wipe out disk
Spare Management

ENTER/SPACE: Select, ESC: Back/Exit

Step 2:
The new hard drive will be displayed on the screen. Press <Enter> or <Space> on the new hard drive to select
it and then press <Enter> on NEXT. When prompted, press <Y> to confirm. The new hard drive is now set as a
Spare drive.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
[ Adapter] [ Devices] [ RAID ]

RAID Config
Spare Management
Port Disk Name Size Max Speed Status
* S0 SATA: WDC WD800JD-22LSA0 76.3GB SATA 3Gb/s FREE

NEXT

ENTER/SPACE: Select, ESC: Back/Exit

Appendix - 84 -
Step 3:
Make sure you have installed the Marvell RAID driver and Marvell Storage Utility from the motherboard driver
disk. While in the operating system, launch the Marvell Storage Utility from Start\All Programs\Marvell Storage
Utility\Marvell Tray, right-click on the icon in the notification area, and select Open MSU. Then login the
Marvell Storage Utility.

Under Virtual Disk 0, the Property tab displays the

rebuild progress on the right of the Background Activity
Progress item, indicating that the RAID volume is being
rebuilt. When completed, the status will display as Done.

•• Manually Rebuilding RAID 1 in the Operating System

You can manually rebuild a RAID 1 array without setting the new hard drive as a Spare drive in the RAID setup
utility first. While in the operating system, open the Marvell Storage Utility and login.

Step 1:
Under Virtual Disk 0, click the Operation tab and select
Rebuild.

Step 2:
The screen will display the new hard drive. Click on the
hard drive to select it and click the Submit button to
begin the rebuild.

- 85 - Appendix
5-2 Configuring Audio Input and Output
5-2-1 Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio
The motherboard provides six audio jacks on the back
panel which support 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel (Note) audio.
The picture to the right shows the default audio jack Center/Subwoofer Line In
Speaker Out
assignments.
Rear Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
The integrated HD (High Definition) audio provides jack
Side Speaker Out Mic In
retasking capability that allows the user to change the
function for each jack through the audio driver.
For example, in a 4-channel audio configuration, if
a Rear speaker is plugged into the default Center/Subwoofer speaker out jack, you can retask the Center/
Subwoofer speaker out jack to be Rear speaker out.
•• To install a microphone, connect your microphone to the Mic in jack and manually configure the
jack for microphone functionality.
•• Audio signals will be present on both of the front and back panel audio connections simultaneously.
If you want to mute the back panel audio (only supported when using an HD front panel audio
module), refer to instructions on the next page.

High Definition Audio (HD Audio)

HD Audio includes multiple high quality digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and features multistreaming
capabilities that allow multiple audio streams (in and out) to be simultaneously processed. For example, users can
listen to MP3 music, have an Internet chat, make a telephone call over the Internet, and etc. all at the same time.

A. Configuring Speakers
(The following instructions use Windows 7 as the example operating system.)

Step 1:
After installing the audio driver, the HD Audio Manager
icon will appear in the notification area. Double-click
the icon to access the HD Audio Manager.

(Note) 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio Configurations:

Refer to the following for multi-channel speaker configurations.
•• 2-channel audio: Headphone or Line out.
•• 4-channel audio: Front speaker out and Rear speaker out.
•• 5.1-channel audio: Front speaker out, Rear speaker out, and Center/Subwoofer speaker out.
•• 7.1-channel audio: Front speaker out, Rear speaker out, Center/Subwoofer speaker out, and Side speaker out.

Appendix - 86 -
Step 2:
Connect an audio device to an audio jack. The The current
connected device is dialog box appears. Select the device
according to the type of device you connect. Then click OK.

Step 3:
On the Speakers screen, click the Speaker Configuration
tab. In the Speaker Configuration list, select Stereo,
Quadraphonic, 5.1 Speaker, or 7.1 Speaker according to
the type of speaker configuration you wish to set up. Then
the speaker setup is completed.

B. Configuring Sound Effect

You may configure an audio environment on the Sound Effects tab.

C. Activating an AC'97 Front Panel Audio Module

If your chassis provides an AC'97 front panel audio module,
to activate the AC'97 functionality, click the tool icon on the
Speaker Configuration tab. On the Connector Settings
dialog box, select the Disable front panel jack detection
check box. Click OK to complete.

D. Muting the Back Panel Audio (For HD Audio Only)

Click Device advanced settings on the top right corner
on the Speaker Configuration tab to open the Device
advanced settings dialog box. Select the Mute the rear
output device, when a front headphone plugged in check
box. Click OK to complete.

- 87 - Appendix
5-2-2 Configuring S/PDIF Out

The S/PDIF Out jacks can transmit audio signals to an external decoder for decoding to get the best audio
quality.

1. Connecting a S/PDIF Out Cable:

Connect a S/PDIF coaxial cable or a S/PDIF optical cable (either one) to the corresponding S/PDIF out connector
as shown below and an external decoder for transmitting the S/PDIF digital audio signals.

Connects to a S/PDIF optical cable

Connects to a S/PDIF coaxial cable

2. Configuring S/PDIF Out:

On the Digital Output(Optical) screen (Note), click the Default Format tab and then select the sample rate and
bit depth. Click OK to complete.

(Note) Enter the Digital Output(Optical) screen to configure further settings if you use the S/PDIF Out
connector(s) on the back panel for digital audio output or enter the Digital Output screen if you use
the internal S/PDIF Out connector (SPDIF_O) for digital audio output.

Appendix - 88 -
5-2-3 Configuring Microphone Recording
Step 1:
After installing the audio driver, the HD Audio Manager
icon will appear in the notification area. Double-click
the icon to access the HD Audio Manager.

Step 2:
Connect your microphone to the Mic in jack (pink) on the
back panel or the Mic in jack (pink) on the front panel.
Then configure the jack for microphone functionality.
Note: The microphone functions on the front panel and
back panel cannot be used at the same time.

Step 3:
Go to the Microphone screen. Do not mute the recording
volume, or you'll not be able to record the sound. To hear
the sound being recorded during the recording process,
do not mute the playback volume. It is recommended that
you set the volumes at a middle level.

Step 4:
To raise the recording and playback volume for the
microphone, click the Microphone Boost icon on
the right of the Recording Volume slider and set the
Microphone Boost level.

- 89 - Appendix
Step 5:
After completing the settings above, click Start, point
to All Programs, point to Accessories, and then click
Sound Recorder to begin the sound recording.

* Enabling Stereo Mix

If the HD Audio Manager does not display the recording device you wish to use, refer to the steps below. The
following steps explain how to enable Stereo Mix (which may be needed when you want to record sound from
your computer).

Step 1:
Locate the icon in the notification area and right-click
on this icon. Select Recording Devices.

Step 2:
On the Recording tab, right-click on an empty space and
select Show Disabled Devices.

Step 3:
When the Stereo Mix item appears, right-click on this
item and select Enable. Then set it as the default device.

Appendix - 90 -
Step 4:
Now you can access the HD Audio Manager to configure
Stereo Mix and use Sound Recorder to record the
sound.

5-2-4 Using the Sound Recorder

A. Recording Sound
1. Make sure you have connected the sound input device (e.g. microphone) to the computer.
2. To record the audio, click the Start Recording button .
3. To stop recording audio, click the Stop Recording button .
Be sure to save the recorded audio file upon completion.

B. Playing the Recorded Sound

You can play your recording in a digital media player program that supports your audio file format.

- 91 - Appendix
5-3 Troubleshooting

5-3-1 Frequently Asked Questions

To read more FAQs for your motherboard, please go to the Support & Downloads\FAQ page on GIGABYTE's
website.

Q: Why is the light of my keyboard/optical mouse still on after the computer shuts down?
A: Some motherboards provide a small amount of standby power after the computer shuts down and that's why the light is
still on.

Q: How do I clear the CMOS values?

A: For motherboards that have a Clear CMOS button, press this button to clear the CMOS values (before doing this, please
turn off the computer and unplug the power cord). For motherboards that have a Clear CMOS jumper, refer to the instruc-
tions in Chapter 1 to short the jumper to clear the CMOS values. If your board doesn't have this jumper/button, refer to the
instructions on the motherboard battery in Chapter 1. You can temporarily remove the battery from the battery holder to
stop supplying power to the CMOS, which will clear the CMOS values after about one minute.

Q: Why do I still get a weak sound even though I have turned my speaker to the maximum volume?
A: Make sure your speaker is equipped with an internal amplifier. If not, try a speaker with power/amplifier.

Q: Why cannot I install the onboard HD audio driver successfully? (For Windows XP only)
A: Step 1: First, make sure Service Pack 1 or Service Pack 2 has been installed (check in My Computer > Properties > Gen-
eral > System). If not, please update it from Microsoft's website. Then make sure the Microsoft UAA Bus Driver for
High Definition Audio has been installed successfully (check in My Computer > Properties > Hardware > Device
Manager > System Devices).
Step 2: Check if Audio Device on High Definition Audio Bus or Unknown device is present in Device Manager or
Sound, video, and game controllers. If yes, please disable this device. (If not, skip this step.)
Step 3: Then go back to My Computer > Properties > Hardware > Device Manager > System devices and right-click on
Microsoft UAA Bus Driver for High Definition Audio and select Disable and Uninstall.
Step 4: In Device Manager, right-click on the computer name and select Scan for hardware changes. When the Add
New Hardware Wizard appears, click Cancel. Then install the onboard HD audio driver from the motherboard
driver disk or download the audio driver from GIGABYTE's website to install.
For more details, go to the Support & Downloads\FAQ page on our website and search for "onboard HD audio driver."

Appendix - 92 -
5-3-2 Troubleshooting Procedure

If you encounter any troubles during system startup, follow the troubleshooting procedure below to solve the
problem.

START

Turn off the power. Remove all peripherals, connecting cables, and
power cord etc.

Make sure the motherboard does not short-circuit with the chassis or Yes
Isolate the short circuit.
other metal objects.

No The problem is verified and solved.

Secure the CPU cooler

Check if the CPU cooler is attached to the CPU securely. Is the pow- No on the CPU. Connect the
er connector of the CPU cooler connected to the CPU_FAN header CPU cooler power cable
properly? to the motherboard.

Yes The problem is verified and solved.

Correctly insert the

No
Check if the memory is installed properly on the memory slot. memory into the memory
socket.

Yes The problem is verified and solved.

Insert the graphics card. Connect the ATX main power cable and the
12V power cable. Turn on the power to start the computer.
Make sure the graphics card is securely seated in the
expansion slot and power connectors are firmly attached.

(Continued...)

- 93 - Appendix
 A

No The power supply, CPU or

When the computer is turned on, is the CPU cooler running? CPU socket might fail.

Yes The problem is verified and solved.

The graphics card,

No
Check if there is display on your monitor. expansion slot, or monitor
might fail.

Yes The problem is verified and solved.

Turn off the computer. Plug in the keyboard and mouse and restart
the computer.

No The keyboard or keyboard

Check if the keyboard is working properly.
connector might fail.

Yes The problem is verified and solved.

Press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Select "Load Optimized De-

faults." Select "Save & Exit Setup" to save changes and exit BIOS
Setup.

The hard drive, connector,

Turn off the computer and connect the hard drive(s). Check if the No
or cable might fail.
system can boot successfully.

Yes The problem is verified and solved.

Reinstall the operating system. Reinstall other devices one by one

(install one device at one time and then boot the system to see if the
device works successfully).

END

If the procedure above is unable to solve your problem, contact the place of purchase or local dealer
for help. Or go to the Support & Downloads\Technical Support page to submit your question. Our
customer service staff will reply you as soon as possible.

Appendix - 94 -
5-3-3 Regulatory Statements
Regulatory Notices
This document must not be copied without our written permission, and the contents there of must not be imparted
to a third party nor be used for any unauthorized purpose. Contravention will be prosecuted. We believe that the
information contained herein was accurate in all respects at the time of printing. GIGABYTE cannot, however,
assume any responsibility for errors or omissions in this text. Also note that the information in this document is
subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a commitment by GIGABYTE.

Our Commitment to Preserving the Environment

In addition to high-efficiency performance, all GIGABYTE motherboards fulfill European Union regulations
for RoHS (Restriction of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment) and WEEE
(Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) environmental directives, as well as most major worldwide safety
requirements. To prevent releases of harmful substances into the environment and to maximize the use of our
natural resources, GIGABYTE provides the following information on how you can responsibly recycle or reuse
most of the materials in your "end of life" product.

Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive Statement

GIGABYTE products have not intended to add and safe from hazardous substances (Cd, Pb, Hg, Cr+6, PBDE
and PBB). The parts and components have been carefully selected to meet RoHS requirement. Moreover, we at
GIGABYTE are continuing our efforts to develop products that do not use internationally banned toxic chemicals.

Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive Statement

GIGABYTE will fulfill the national laws as interpreted from the 2002/96/EC WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment) directive. The WEEE Directive specifies the treatment, collection, recycling and disposal of electric
and electronic devices and their components. Under the Directive, used equipment must be marked, collected
separately, and disposed of properly.

WEEE Symbol Statement

The symbol shown below is on the product or on its packaging, which indicates that this product
must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead, the device should be taken to the waste collection
centers for activation of the treatment, collection, recycling and disposal procedure. The separate
collection and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help to conserve natural
resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment.
For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your
local government office, your household waste disposal service or where you purchased the product for details
of environmentally safe recycling.
ŠŠ When your electrical or electronic equipment is no longer useful to you, "take it back" to your local or regional
waste collection administration for recycling.
ŠŠ If you need further assistance in recycling, reusing in your "end of life" product, you may contact us at the
Customer Care number listed in your product's user's manual and we will be glad to help you with your effort.

Finally, we suggest that you practice other environmentally friendly actions by understanding and using the
energy-saving features of this product (where applicable), recycling the inner and outer packaging (including
shipping containers) this product was delivered in, and by disposing of or recycling used batteries properly.
With your help, we can reduce the amount of natural resources needed to produce electrical and electronic
equipment, minimize the use of landfills for the disposal of "end of life" products, and generally improve our
quality of life by ensuring that potentially hazardous substances are not released into the environment and are
disposed of properly.

- 95 - Appendix
Appendix - 96 -
- 97 - Appendix
Appendix - 98 -
 Contact Us

•• GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. •• NINGBO G.B.T. TECH. TRADING CO., LTD. - China
Address: No.6, Bao Chiang Road, Hsin-Tien Dist., WEB address : [Link]
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WEB address : [Link] WEB address : [Link]
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WEB address : [Link]

- 99 - Appendix
•• G.B.T. TECHNOLOGY TRADING GMBH - Germany •• Hungary
WEB address : [Link] WEB address : [Link]
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• GIGABYTE Global Service System

To submit a technical or non-technical (Sales/Marketing)

question, please link to:
[Link]
Then select your language to enter the system.

Appendix - 100 -