MB Manual Ga-Z68ap-D3 e
MB Manual Ga-Z68ap-D3 e
MB Manual Ga-Z68ap-D3 e
User's Manual
Rev. 1002
12ME-Z68APD3-1002R
Motherboard
GA-Z68AP-D3
Motherboard
GA-Z68AP-D3
May 31, 2011
May 31, 2011
Copyright
2011 GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. All rights reserved.
The trademarks mentioned in this manual are legally registered to their respective owners.
Disclaimer
Information in this manual is protected by copyright laws and is the property of GIGABYTE.
Changes to the specifications and features in this manual may be made by GIGABYTE
without prior notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, translated, transmitted,
or published in any form or by any means without GIGABYTE's prior written permission.
Documentation Classifications
In order to assist in the use of this product, GIGABYTE provides the following types of documentations:
For quick set-up of the product, read the Quick Installation Guide included with the product.
For detailed product information, carefully read the User's Manual.
Example:
Table of Contents
Box Contents....................................................................................................................6
Optional Items..................................................................................................................6
GA-Z68AP-D3 Motherboard Layout.................................................................................7
GA-Z68AP-D3 Motherboard Block Diagram....................................................................8
-4-
Chapter 3 Drivers Installation........................................................................................55
3-1 Installing Chipset Drivers................................................................................ 55
3-2 Application Software....................................................................................... 56
3-3 Technical Manuals.......................................................................................... 56
3-4 Contact........................................................................................................... 57
3-5 System............................................................................................................ 57
3-6 Download Center............................................................................................ 58
3-7 New Utilities.................................................................................................... 58
Chapter 4 Unique Features...........................................................................................59
4-1 Xpress Recovery2.......................................................................................... 59
4-2 BIOS Update Utilities...................................................................................... 62
4-2-1 Updating the BIOS with the Q-Flash Utility............................................................62
4-2-2 Updating the BIOS with the @BIOS Utility............................................................ 65
4-3 EasyTune 6..................................................................................................... 66
4-4 Q-Share.......................................................................................................... 67
4-5 Smart 6 ........................................................................................................ 68
4-6 Auto Green...................................................................................................... 72
4-7 eXtreme Hard Drive (X.H.D)........................................................................... 73
4-8 Cloud OC........................................................................................................ 74
4-9 TouchBIOS..................................................................................................... 75
Chapter 5 Appendix.......................................................................................................77
5-1 Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)..................................................................... 77
5-1-1 Configuring Intel Z68 SATA Controllers ................................................................77
5-1-3 Installing the SATA RAID/AHCI Driver and Operating System............................. 85
5-2 Configuring Audio Input and Output............................................................... 90
5-2-1 Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio.................................................................. 90
5-2-2 Configuring S/PDIF Out..........................................................................................93
5-2-3 Configuring Microphone Recording....................................................................... 94
5-2-4 Using the Sound Recorder.................................................................................... 96
5-3 Troubleshooting.............................................................................................. 97
5-3-1 Frequently Asked Questions .................................................................................97
5-3-2 Troubleshooting Procedure................................................................................... 98
-5-
Box Contents
GA-Z68AP-D3 motherboard
Motherboard driver disk
User's Manual
Quick Installation Guide
Four SATA cables
I/O Shield
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. 12CR1-1UB030-5*R)
2-port SATA power cable (Part No. 12CF1-2SERPW-0*R)
-6-
GA-Z68AP-D3 Motherboard Layout
KB_MS_USB CPU_FAN
ATX_12V
COMA
LGA1155
LPT
OPTICAL
HDMI
ATX
R_USB30/20
USB_LAN
Etron
EJ168 SYS_FAN1
AUDIO
PCIEX1_1 mSATA
DDR3_4
DDR3_2
DDR3_3
PCIEX16 DDR3_1
Realtek
RTL8111E
PCIEX1_2
GA-Z68AP-D3 M_BIOS
B_BIOS
CODEC Intel Z68 SATA3_1
PCIEX1_3
SATA3_0
BAT
SATA2_3
PCIEX4 SATA2_2
SATA2_5
PCI1 SATA2_4
IT8728
iTE
PCI2 Bridge
SPDIF_O CLR_CMOS
-7-
GA-Z68AP-D3 Motherboard Block Diagram
1 PCI Express x16
CPU CLK+/- (100 MHz)
PCIe CLK
(100 MHz) LGA1155 DDR3 2133/1866/1600/
CPU 1333/1066 MHz
Dual Channel Memory
x16
PCI Express Bus
DMI 2.0
FDI
1 PCI Express x4
3 PCI Express x1
HDMI
or
1 PCI Express x1
Dual BIOS
x4 x1 2 SATA 6Gb/s
Switch 3 SATA 3Gb/s
x1
PCI Express Bus Intel Z68
1 SATA 3Gb/s 1 mSATA
x1 x1 x1 or
CODEC
PS/2 KB/Mouse
MIC (Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out)
Line Out (Front Speaker Out)
Line In (Rear Speaker Out)
S/PDIF Out
2 PCI
PCI CLK
(33 MHz)
-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, 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 sup-
ply 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 hard-
ware 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 sys-
tem 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.
Hardware Installation - 10 -
Storage Interface Chipset:
- 2 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (SATA3_0, SATA3_1) supporting up to 2 SATA
6Gb/s devices
- 4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors (SATA2_2~SATA2_5) supporting up to 4 SATA
3Gb/s devices
* The SATA2_5 connector will become unavailable when the mSATA connector is
installed with a solid state drive.
- Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10
* 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.
USB Chipset:
- Up to 10 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports on the back panel, 6 ports available
through the internal USB headers)
Etron EJ168 chip:
- Up to 2 USB 3.0/2.0 ports on the back panel
Internal 1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector
Connectors 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
2 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors
1 x mSATA connector
1 x CPU fan header
2 x system fan headers
1 x power fan header
1 x front panel header
1 x front panel audio header
1 x S/PDIF Out header
3 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
1 x clearing CMOS jumper
1 x Trusted Platform Module (TPM) header
Back Panel 1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse port
Connectors 1 x parallel port
1 x serial port
1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector
1 x HDMI port
4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports
1 x RJ-45 port
3 x audio jacks (Line In/Line Out/Microphone)
I/O Controller iTE IT8728 chip
- 11 - Hardware Installation
Hardware System voltage detection
Monitor CPU/System temperature detection
CPU/System/Power fan speed detection
CPU overheating warning
CPU/System/Power fan fail warning
CPU/System fan speed control
* Whether the CPU/system fan speed control function is supported will depend on the
CPU/system cooler you install.
BIOS 2 x 32 Mbit flash
Use of licensed AWARD BIOS
Support for DualBIOS
PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.0, SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 1.0b
Unique Features Support for @BIOS
Support for Q-Flash
Support for Xpress BIOS Rescue
Support for Download Center
Support for Xpress Install
Support for Xpress Recovery2
Support for EasyTune
* Available functions in EasyTune may differ by motherboard model.
Support for Smart 6
Support for Auto Green
Support for eXtreme Hard Drive (X.H.D)
Support for ON/OFF Charge
Support for Cloud OC
Support for 3TB+ Unlock
Support for TouchBIOS
Support for Q-Share
Bundled Norton Internet Security (OEM version)
Software Intel Smart Response Technology
LucidLogix Virtu
* Make sure the monitor cable has been connected to the integrated graphics port on
the back panel.
Operating
Support for Microsoft Windows 7/Vista/XP
System
Form Factor ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 21.5cm
* GIGABYTE reserves the right to make any changes to the product specifications and product-related information without
prior notice.
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 dam-
age 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, graph-
ics card, memory, hard drive, etc.
LGA1155 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.
Step 1: Step 2:
Gently press the CPU socket lever handle down Remove the CPU socket cover as shown. Hold
and away from the socket with your finger. Then your index finger down on the rear grip of the
completely lift the CPU socket lever and the metal socket cover and use your thumb to lift up the
front edge (next to the "REMOVE" mark) and
load plate will be lifted as well.
then remove the cover. (DO NOT touch socket
contacts. To protect the CPU socket, always re-
place the protective socket cover when the CPU
is not installed.)
Step 3: Step 4:
Hold the CPU with your thumb and index fingers. Once the CPU is properly inserted, use one
Align the CPU pin one marking (triangle) with the hand to hold the socket lever and use the other
pin one corner of the CPU socket (or you may to lightly replace the load plate. When replacing
align the CPU notches with the socket alignment the load plate, make sure the front end of the
keys) and gently insert the CPU into position. load plate is under the shoulder screw.
Step 5: NOTE:
Push the CPU socket lever back into its locked Hold the CPU socket lever by the handle, not the
position. lever base portion.
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.)
Male Push
Pin
Direction of the
Arrow Sign on The Top
the Male Push of Female
Pin Push Pin
Female
Push Pin
Step 1: Step 2:
Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease Before installing the cooler, note the direction of
on the surface of the installed CPU. the arrow sign on the male push pin. (Turn-
ing the push pin along the direction of arrow is to
remove the cooler, on the contrary, is to install.)
Step 3: Step 4:
Place the cooler atop the CPU, aligning the four You should hear a "click" when pushing down
push pins through the pin holes on the mother- each push pin. Check that the Male and Female
board. Push down on the push pins diagonally. push pins are joined closely. (Refer to your CPU
cooler installation manual for instructions on
installing the cooler.)
Step 5: Step 6:
After the installation, check the back of the moth- Finally, attach the power connector of the CPU
erboard. If the push pin is inserted as the picture cooler to the CPU fan header (CPU_FAN) on the
above shows, the installation is complete. motherboard.
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 direc-
tion. If you are unable to insert the memory, switch the direction.
Due to CPU limitations, read the following guidelines before installing the memory in Dual Channel mode.
111 Dual Channel mode cannot be enabled if only one DDR3 memory module is installed.
222 When enabling Dual Channel mode with two or four memory modules, it is recommended that
memory of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used and installed in the same colored
DDR3 sockets. For optimum performance, when enabling Dual Channel mode with two memory
modules, we recommend that you install them in the DDR3_1 and DDR3_2 sockets.
Hardware Installation - 16 -
1-4-2 Installing a Memory
Before installing a memory module, make sure to turn off the computer and unplug the power
cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the memory module.
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 fin-
gers 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 Slot
Follow the steps below to correctly install your expansion card in the expansion slot.
111 Locate an expansion slot that supports your card. Remove the metal slot cover from the chassis back panel.
222 Align the card with the slot, and press down on the card until it is fully seated in the slot.
333 Make sure the metal contacts on the card are completely inserted into the slot.
444 Secure the cards metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw.
555 After installing all expansion cards, replace the chassis cover(s).
666 Turn on your computer. If necessary, go to BIOS Setup to make any required BIOS changes for your
expansion card(s).
777 Install the driver provided with the expansion card in your operating system.
Hardware Installation - 18 -
1-6 Back Panel Connectors
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.
- 19 - Hardware Installation
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/
Speed LED Activity LED Connection/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
To configure 7.1-channel audio, you have to use an HD front panel audio module and enable
the multi-channel audio feature through the audio driver. 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."
Hardware Installation - 20 -
1-7 Internal Connectors
1 3
4
9
7
6 8
5
13 10
12 4 15 14 11
1) ATX_12V 9) mSATA
2) ATX 10) CLR_CMOS
3) CPU_FAN 11) F_PANEL
4) SYS_FAN1/2 12) F_AUDIO
5) PWR_FAN 13) SPDIF_O
6) BAT 14) F_USB1/F_USB2/F_USB3
7) SATA3_0/1 15) TPM
8) SATA2_2/3/4/5
- 21 - Hardware Installation
1/2) ATX_12V/ATX (2x2 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 com-
ponents 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 con-
nector 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:
Pin No. Definition
3 4 1 GND
1 2 2 GND
3 +12V
ATX_12V
4 +12V
ATX:
12 24 Pin No. Definition Pin No. Definition
1 3.3V 13 3.3V
2 3.3V 14 -12V
3 GND 15 GND
4 +5V 16 PS_ON (soft On/Off)
5 GND 17 GND
6 +5V 18 GND
7 GND 19 GND
8 Power Good 20 -5V
9 5VSB (stand by +5V) 21 +5V
10 +12V 22 +5V
11 +12V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX) 23 +5V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
1 13 12 3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX) 24 GND (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
ATX
Hardware Installation - 22 -
3/4/5) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2/PWR_FAN (Fan Headers)
The motherboard has a 4-pin CPU fan header (CPU_FAN), a 4-pin (SYS_FAN2) and a 3-pin (SYS_FAN1)
system fan headers, and a 3-pin power fan header (PWR_FAN). 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 motherboard supports CPU fan speed control, which requires the
use of a CPU 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
SYS_FAN2:
Pin No. Definition
1
1 GND
SYS_FAN2 2 +12V /Speed Control
3 Sense
4 Reserve
SYS_FAN1/PWR_FAN:
Pin No. Definition
1 1 GND
SYS_FAN1/PWR_FAN 2 +12V
3 Sense
Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from overheating. Over-
heating 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.
6) 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.
1
1
M_SATA
1
1
mSATA
1 2 3
DIP
DIP
1 2 3
DIP
1 2 3
Open: Normal
Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before clear-
ing the CMOS values.
After clearing the CMOS values and before turning on your computer, be sure to remove the
jumper cap from the jumper. Failure to do so may cause damage to the motherboard.
After system restart, go to BIOS Setup to load factory defaults (select Load Optimized De-
faults) or manually configure the BIOS settings (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," for BIOS
configurations).
- 25 - Hardware Installation
11) 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
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 assign-
ments are matched correctly.
Hardware Installation - 26 -
12) 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
M_SATA
the audio software in Chapter 5, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel 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
audiomodule(X58A-OC)
Voltage measurement module), refer to Chapter 5, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio."
Some chassis provide a frontPWMpanel
Switchaudio module that has separated connectors on each wire
(X58A-OC)
instead of a single plug. For information about connecting the front panel audio module that
1 2 3
DIP
1 2 3
DIP
1 2 3
This header supports digital S/PDIF Out and connects a S/PDIF digital audio cable (provided by expan-
PCIe power connector (SATA)(X58A-OC)
sion 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. For
information about connecting the S/PDIF digital audio cable, carefully read the manual for your expan-
sion card.
- 27 - Hardware Installation
14) F_USB1/F_USB2/F_USB3 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers)
The headers conform to USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Each USB header can provide two USB ports via an
UG
T optional USB bracket. For purchasing the optional USB bracket, please contact the local dealer.
When the system is in S4/S5 mode, only the USB ports routed to the F_USB1 header can sup-
port the ON/OFF Charge function.
Do not plug the IEEE 1394 bracket (2x5-pin) cable into the USB 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. BIOS Switcher
DB_PORT
1
1
You may connect a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) to this header.
19 1 Voltage measurement module(X58A-OC)
TPM
PWM Switch
w/housing
DIP
1 2 3
20 2
DIP
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
Hardware Installation - 28 -
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 see more advanced BIOS Setup menu options, you can press <Ctrl> + <F1> in the main menu of the BIOS
Setup program.
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 ver-
sion 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.
BIOS will emit a beep code during the POST. Refer to Chapter 5, "Troubleshooting," for the beep
codes description.
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/clearing
CMOS jumper in Chapter 1 for how to clear the CMOS values.)
- 29 - BIOS Setup
2-1 Startup Screen
The following screens may appear when the computer boots.
A. The LOGO Screen (Default)
Function Keys
<DEL>: BIOS Setup <F9>: XpressRecovery2 <F12>: Boot Menu <End>: Qflash Function Keys
05/12/2011-Z68-7A89WG0DC-00
Function Keys:
<TAB>: POST SCREEN
Press the <Tab> key to show the BIOS POST screen. To show the BIOS POST screen at system startup,
refer to the instructions on the Full Screen LOGO Show item on page 44.
<DEL>: BIOS SETUP\Q-FLASH
Press the <Delete> key to enter BIOS Setup or to access the Q-Flash utility in BIOS Setup.
<F9>: XPRESS RECOVERY2
If you have ever entered Xpress Recovery2 to back up hard drive data using the driver disk, the <F9> key
can be used for subsequent access to Xpress Recovery2 during the POST. For more information, refer to
Chapter 4, "Xpress Recovery2."
<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. To
exit Boot Menu, press <Esc>. The system will directly boot from the device configured in Boot Menu.
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. You can access Boot Menu again to change the first boot device
setting as needed.
<END>: Q-FLASH
Press the <End> key to access the Q-Flash utility directly without having to enter BIOS Setup first.
BIOS Setup - 30 -
2-2 The Main Menu
Once you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main Menu (as shown below) appears on the screen. Use arrow
keys to move among the items and press <Enter> to accept or enter a sub-menu.
(Sample BIOS Version: E2)
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
If you do not find the settings you want in the Main Menu or a submenu, press <Ctrl>+<F1> to
access more advanced options.
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.
- 31 - BIOS Setup
The Functions of the <F11> and <F12> keys (For the Main Menu Only)
F11: Save CMOS to BIOS
This function allows you to save the current BIOS settings to a profile. You can create up to 8 profiles
(Profile 1-8) and name each profile. First enter the profile name (to erase the default profile name, use the
SPACE key) and then press <Enter> to complete.
F12: Load CMOS from BIOS
If your system becomes unstable and you have loaded the BIOS default settings, you can use this func-
tion 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, then press <Enter> to complete.
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)
Use this menu to configure the clock, frequency and voltages of your CPU, memory, etc.
Standard CMOS Features
Use this menu to configure the system time and date, hard drive types, floppy disk drive types, and the
type of errors that stop the system boot, etc.
Advanced BIOS Features
Use this menu to configure the device boot order, advanced features available on the CPU, and the primary
display adapter.
Integrated Peripherals
Use this menu to configure all peripheral devices, such as IDE, SATA, USB, integrated audio, and integrated
LAN, etc.
Power Management Setup
Use this menu to configure all the power-saving functions.
PC Health Status
Use this menu to see information about autodetected system/CPU temperature, system voltage and fan
speed, etc.
Load Fail-Safe Defaults
Fail-Safe defaults are factory settings for the most stable, minimal-performance system operations.
Load Optimized Defaults
Optimized defaults are factory settings for optimal-performance system operations.
Set Supervisor Password
Change, set, or disable password. It allows you to restrict access to the system and BIOS Setup.
A supervisor password allows you to make changes in BIOS Setup.
Set User Password
Change, set, or disable password. It allows you to restrict access to the system and BIOS Setup.
A user password only allows you to view the BIOS settings but not to make changes.
Save & Exit Setup
Save all the changes made in the BIOS Setup program to the CMOS and exit BIOS Setup. (Pressing <F10>
can also carry out this task.)
Exit Without Saving
Abandon all changes and the previous settings remain in effect. Pressing <Y> to the confirmation message
will exit BIOS Setup. (Pressing <Esc> can also carry out this task.)
BIOS Setup - 32 -
2-3 MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)
} M.I.T Current Status [Press Enter] Item Help
} Advanced Frequency Settings [Press Enter] Menu Level
} Advanced Memory Settings [Press Enter]
} Advanced Voltage Settings [Press Enter]
} Miscellaneous Settings [Press Enter]
BIOS Version E2
BCLK 100.32 MHz
CPU Frequency 3193.86 MHz
Memory Frequency 1333.75 MHz
Total Memory Size 1024 MB
Vcore 1.188V
DRAM Voltage 1.584V
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
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.)
BIOS Version E2
BCLK 100.32 MHz
CPU Frequency 3193.86 MHz
Memory Frequency 1333.75 MHz
Total Memory Size 1024 MB
Vcore 1.188V
DRAM Voltage 1.584V
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
This section provides information on the BIOS version, CPU base clock, CPU frequency, memory frequency,
total memory size , CPU temperature, Vcore, and memory voltage.
- 33 - BIOS Setup
} M.I.T. Current Status
This screen provides information on CPU/memory frequencies/parameters.
} Advanced Frequency Settings
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Advanced Frequency Settings
CPU Clock Ratio [31X] Item Help
CPU Frequency 3.10GHz (100x31) Menu Level
} Advanced CPU Core Features [Press Enter]
>>>>> Standard Clock Control
BCLK/DMI/PEG Clock Control [Disabled]
x BCLK/DMI/PEG Frequency (0.1MHz) 1000 100.0MHz
Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) (Note 1) [Disabled]
System Memory Multiplier (SPD) [Auto]
Memory Frequency (Mhz) 1333 1333
Internal Graphics Clock 1100 [Auto]
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
(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.
- 35 - BIOS Setup
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)
Bi-Directional PROCHOT (Note 1)
Auto Lets the BIOS automatically configure this setting. (Default)
Enabled When the CPU or chipset detects that an overheating is occurring, PROCHOT signals will
be emitted to lower CPU performance to decrease heat production.
Disabled Only allows the CPU to detect whether an overheating is occurring to emit PROCHOT
signals.
(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 - 36 -
Internal Graphics Clock
Allows you to set the onboard graphics clock. The adjustable range is from 400 MHz to 3000 MHz. (Default:
Auto)
Advanced Memory Settings
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Advanced Memory Settings
Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) (Note) [Disabled] Item Help
System Memory Multiplier (SPD) [Auto] Menu Level
Memory Frequency(Mhz) 1333 1333
Performance Enhance [Turbo]
DRAM Timing Selectable (SPD) [Auto]
Profile DDR Voltage 1.5V
Profile VTT Voltage 1.05V
x Channel Interleaving Auto
x Rank Interleaving Auto
>>>>> Channel A
} Channel A Timing Settings [Press Enter]
>>>>> Channel B
} Channel B Timing Settings [Press Enter]
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
(Note) This item is present only when you install a memory module that supports this feature.
- 37 - BIOS Setup
Rank Interleaving
Enables or disables memory rank interleaving. Enabled allows the system to simultaneously access differ-
ent ranks of the memory to increase memory performance and stability. Auto lets the BIOS automatically
configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
>>>>> Channel A/B Timing Settings
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Channel A Timing Settings
>>>>> Channel A Standard Timing Control Item Help
x CAS Latency Time 9 Auto Menu Level
x tRCD 9 Auto
x tRP 9 Auto
x tRAS 24 Auto
>>>>> Channel A Advanced Timing Control
x tRC 33 Auto
x tRRD 4 Auto
x tWTR 5 Auto
x tWR 10 Auto
x tWTP 21 Auto
x tWL 7 Auto
x tRFC 60 Auto
x tRTP 5 Auto
x tFAW 20 Auto
x Command Rate (CMD) 1 Auto
>>>>> Channel A Misc Timing Control
x IO Latency 1 Auto
x Round Trip Latency 34 Auto
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
BIOS Setup - 38 -
tRTP
Options are: Auto (default), 1~15.
tFAW
Options are: Auto (default), 1~63.
Command Rate(CMD)
Options are: Auto (default), 1~3.
>>>>> Channel A/B Misc Timing Control
IO Latency
Options are: Auto (default), 1~31.
Round Trip Latency
Options are: Auto (default), 1~255.
>>> CPU
Load-Line Calibration
Enables or disables Load-Line Calibration. Enabling this feature adjusts Vdroop, keeping the CPU voltage
more constant under light and heavy CPU load. Disabled sets the CPU voltage following Intel specifications.
(Default: Auto)
Note: Enabling Load-Line Calibration may result in damage to your CPU or reduce the useful life of the
CPU.
Dynamic Vcore(DVID)
The default is Auto.
QPI/Vtt Voltage
The default is Auto.
System Agent Voltage
The default is Auto.
Graphics DVID
The default is Auto.
- 39 - BIOS Setup
>>> MCH/ICH
CPU PLL
The default is Auto.
DRAM Voltage
The default is Auto.
DRAM VRef.
The default is Auto.
DRAM Termination
The default is Auto.
Ch-A Data VRef.
The default is Auto.
Ch-B Data VRef.
The default is Auto.
Ch-A Address VRef.
The default is Auto.
Ch-B Address VRef.
The default is Auto.
Miscellaneous Settings
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Miscellaneous Settings
Isochronous Support [Enabled] Item Help
Virtualization Technology (Note) [Enabled] Menu Level
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
Isochronous Support
Determines whether to enable specific streams within the CPU and Chipset. (Default: Enabled)
Virtualization Technology (Note)
Enables or disables Intel Virtualization Technology. Virtualization enhanced by Intel Virtualization Technol-
ogy 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: 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 - 40 -
2-4 Standard CMOS Features
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Standard CMOS Features
Date (mm:dd:yy) Wed, May 18 2011 Item Help
Time (hh:mm:ss) 22:31:24 Menu Level
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
Date (mm:dd:yy)
Sets the system date. The date format is week (read-only), month, date and year. Select the desired field
and use the up arrow or down arrow key to set the date.
Time (hh:mm:ss)
Sets the system time. For example, 1 p.m. is 13:0:0. Select the desired field and use the up arrow or down
arrow key to set the time.
IDE Channel 0, 1 Master/Slave
IDE Channel 0, 1 Master/Slave
Configure your SATA devices by using one of the three methods below:
Auto Lets the BIOS automatically detect SATA devices during the POST. (Default)
None If no SATA devices are used, set this item to None so the system will skip the
detection of the device during the POST for faster system startup.
Manual Allows you to manually enter the specifications of the hard drive when the hard
drive access mode is set to CHS.
Access Mode Sets the hard drive access mode. Options are: Auto (default), CHS, LBA, Large.
IDE Channel 2, 3 Master
Extended IDE Drive
Configure your SATA devices by using one of the two methods below:
Auto Lets the BIOS automatically detect SATA devices during the POST. (Default)
None If no SATA devices are used, set this item to None so the system will skip the
detection of the device during the POST for faster system startup.
Access Mode Sets the hard drive access mode. Options are: Auto (default), Large.
The following fields display your hard drive specifications. If you wish to enter the parameters manually,
refer to the information on the hard drive.
Capacity Approximate capacity of the currently installed hard drive.
Cylinder Number of cylinders.
Head Number of heads.
- 41 - BIOS Setup
Precomp Write precompensation cylinder.
Landing Zone Landing zone.
Sector Number of sectors.
Halt On
Allows you to determine whether the system will stop for an error during the POST.
All Errors Whenever the BIOS detects a non-fatal error the system boot will stop.
No Errors The system boot will not stop for any error.
All, But Keyboard The system boot will not stop for a keyboard error but stop for all other errors.
(Default)
Memory
These fields are read-only and are determined by the BIOS POST.
Base Memory Also called conventional memory. Typically, 640 KB will be reserved for the
MS-DOS operating system.
Extended Memory The amount of extended memory.
Total Memory The total amount of memory installed on the system.
BIOS Setup - 42 -
2-5 Advanced BIOS Features
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Advanced BIOS Features
} Hard Disk Boot Priority [Press Enter] Item Help
Quick Boot [Disabled] Menu Level
EFI CD/DVD Boot Option [Auto]
First Boot Device [Hard Disk]
Second Boot Device [CDROM]
Third Boot Device [USB-FDD]
Password Check [Setup]
HDD S.M.A.R.T. Capability [Disabled]
Limit CPUID Max. to 3 (Note) [Disabled]
No-Execute Memory Protect (Note) [Enabled]
Delay For HDD (Secs) [0]
Full Screen LOGO Show [Enabled]
Init Display First [PCI]
Onboard VGA [Auto]
On-Chip Frame Buffer Size [64MB+2MB for GTT]
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
(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.
- 43 - BIOS Setup
HDD S.M.A.R.T. Capability
Enables or disables the S.M.A.R.T. (Self Monitoring and Reporting Technology) capability of your hard
drive. This feature allows your system to report read/write errors of the hard drive and to issue warnings
when a third party hardware monitor utility is installed. (Default: Disabled)
Limit CPUID Max. to 3 (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)
No-Execute Memory Protect (Note)
Enables or disables Intel Execute Disable Bit function. This function may enhance protection for the com-
puter, reducing exposure to viruses and malicious buffer overflow attacks when working with its supporting
software and system. (Default: Enabled)
Delay For HDD (Secs)
Allows you to set a delay time for the BIOS to initialize the hard drive as the system boots up. The adjust-
able range is from 0 to 15 seconds. (Default: 0)
Full Screen LOGO Show
Allows you to determine whether to display the GIGABYTE Logo at system startup. Disabled displays
normal POST message. (Default: Enabled)
Init Display First
Specifies the first initiation of the monitor display from the installed PCI graphics card, PCI Express graphics
card, or the onboard graphics.
PCI Sets the PCI graphics card as the first display. (Default)
Onboard Sets the onboard graphics as the first display.
PCIE x16 Sets the PCI Express graphics card on the PCIEX16 slot as the first display.
PCIE x8 Sets the PCI Express graphics card on the PCIEX8 slot as the first display.
Onboard VGA
Enables or disables the onboard graphics function.
Auto
Allows you to set up a dual-display configuration in Windows 7 operating system. (Default)
Enable If No Ext PEG
Activates the onboard graphics only when no PCI Express graphics card is installed.
Always Enable
Always activates the onboard graphics, whether or not a PCI Express graphics card is installed. If you wish
to set up a dual-display configuration, set this item to Always Enable.
On-Chip Frame Buffer Size
Frame buffer size is the total amount of system memory allocated solely for the onboard graphics controller.
MS-DOS, for example, will use only this memory for display. Options are: 32MB+2MB for GTT ~ 480MB+2MB
for GTT. (Default: 64MB+2MB for GTT)
(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 - 44 -
2-6 Integrated Peripherals
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Integrated Peripherals
eXtreme Hard Drive (XHD) [Disabled] Item Help
PCH SATA Control Mode [IDE] Menu Level
OROM UI and Banner [Enabled]
SATA Port0-3 Native Mode [Enabled]
USB Controllers [Enabled]
USB Legacy Function [Enabled]
USB Storage Function [Enabled]
Azalia Codec [Auto]
Onboard H/W LAN [Enabled]
} SMART LAN [Press Enter]
Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
Onboard USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled]
Onboard Serial Port 1 [3F8/IQR4]
Onboard Parallel Port [378/IRQ7]
Parallel Port Mode [SPP]
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
- 45 - BIOS Setup
USB Controllers
Enables or disables the integrated USB controller. (Default: Enabled)
Disabled will turn off all of the USB functionalities below.
USB Legacy Function
Allows USB keyboard to be used in MS-DOS. (Default: Disabled)
USB Storage Function
Determines whether to detect USB storage devices, including USB flash drives and USB hard drives during
the POST. (Default: Enabled)
Azalia Codec
Enables or disables the onboard audio function. (Default: Auto)
If you wish to install a 3rd party add-in audio card instead of using the onboard audio, set this item to
Disabled.
Onboard H/W LAN
Enables or disables the onboard LAN function. (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.
SMART LAN (LAN Cable Diagnostic Function)
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
SMART LAN
Start detecting at Port..... Item Help
Part1-2 Status = Open / Length = 0m Menu Level
Part3-6 Status = Open / Length = 0m
Part4-5 Status = Open / Length = 0m
Part7-8 Status = Open / Length = 0m
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
This motherboard incorporates cable diagnostic feature designed to detect the status of the attached LAN
cable. This feature will detect cabling issue and report the approximate distance to the fault or short. Refer to
the following information for diagnosing your LAN cable:
When No LAN Cable Is Attached...
If no LAN cable is attached to the motherboard, the Status fields of all four pairs of wires will show Open
and the Length fields show 0m, as shown in the figure above.
When LAN Cable Is Functioning Normally...
If no cable problem is detected on the LAN cable connected to a Gigabit hub or a 10/100 Mbps hub, the
following message will appear:
Start detecting at Port.....
Link Detected --> 100Mbps
Cable Length= 30m
BIOS Setup - 46 -
When a Cable Problem Occurs...
If a cable problem occurs on a specified pair of wires, the Status field will show Short and then length
shown will be the approximate distance to the fault or short.
Example: Part1-2 Status = Short / Length = 2m
Explanation: A fault or short might occur at about 2m on Part 1-2.
Note: Part 4-5 and Part 7-8 are not used in a 10/100 Mbps environment, so their Status fields will show
Open, and the length shown is the approximate length of the attached LAN cable.
- 47 - BIOS Setup
2-7 Power Management Setup
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Power Management Setup
ACPI Suspend Type [S3(STR)] Item Help
Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN [Instant-Off] Menu Level
PME Event Wake Up [Enabled]
Power On by Ring [Enabled]
Resume by Alarm [Disabled]
x Date (of Month) Alarm Everyday
x Time (hh:mm:ss) Alarm 0:0:0
HPET Support (Note) [Enabled]
HPET Mode (Note) [32-bit mode]
Power On By Mouse [Disabled]
Power On By Keyboard [Disabled]
x KB Power ON Password Enter
AC Back Function [Soft-Off]
ErP Support [Disabled]
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
BIOS Setup - 48 -
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:
Date (of Month) Alarm: Turn on the system at a specific time on each day or on a specific day in a month.
Time (hh: mm: ss) Alarm: 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.
HPET Support (Note)
Enables or disables High Precision Event Timer (HPET) for Windows 7/Vista operating system.
(Default: Enabled)
HPET Mode (Note)
Allows you to select the HPET mode for your Windows 7/Vista operating system. Select 32-bit mode when
you install 32-bit Windows Vista; select 64-bit mode when you install 64-bit Windows 7/Vista. This item is
configurable only when the HPET Support is set to Enabled. (Default: 32-bit mode)
Power On By Mouse
Allows the system to be turned on by a PS/2 mouse 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)
Double Click Double click on left button on the PS/2 mouse to turn on the system.
Power On By Keyboard
Allows the system to be turned on by a PS/2 keyboard wake-up event.
Note: you need an ATX power supply providing at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
Disabled Disables this function. (Default)
Password Set a password with 1~5 characters to turn on the system.
Keyboard 98 Press POWER button on the Windows 98 keyboard to turn on the system.
KB Power ON Password
Set the password when Power On by Keyboard is set to Password. Press <Enter> on this item and set
a password with up to 5 characters and then press <Enter> to accept. To turn on the system, enter the
password and press <Enter>.
Note: To cancel the password, press <Enter> on this item. When prompted for the password, press
<Enter> again without entering the password to clear the password settings.
AC Back Function
Determines the state of the system after the return of power from an AC power loss.
Soft-Off The system stays off upon the return of the AC power. (Default)
Full-On The system is turned on upon the return of the AC power.
Memory The system returns to its last known awake state upon the return of the AC power.
ErP Support
Determines whether to let the system consume less than 1W power in S5 (shutdown) state. (Default:
Disabled)
Note: When this item is set to Enabled, the following four functions will become unavailable:
PME event wake up, power on by mouse, power on by keyboard, and wake on LAN.
- 49 - BIOS Setup
2-8 PC Health Status
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
PC Health Status
Reset Case Open Status [Disabled] Item Help
Case Opened No Menu Level
Vcore 1.200V
DDR15V 1.512V
+12V 12.024V
Vcc3 3.304V
Vtt 1.100V
Current System Temperature 39oC
Current CPU Temperature 36oC
Current CPU FAN Speed 2039 RPM
Current SYSTEM FAN2 Speed 0 RPM
Current POWER FAN Speed 0 RPM
Current SYSTEM FAN1 Speed 0 RPM
CPU Warning Temperature [Disabled]
CPU FAN Fail Warning [Disabled]
SYSTEM FAN2 Fail Warning [Disabled]
POWER FAN Fail Warning [Disabled]
SYSTEM FAN1 Fail Warning [Disabled]
CPU Smart FAN Control [Normal]
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
BIOS Setup - 50 -
Current System/CPU Temperature
Displays current system/CPU temperature.
Current CPU/SYSTEM/POWER FAN Speed (RPM)
Displays current CPU/system/power fan speed.
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/POWER FAN Fail Warning
Allows the system to emit warning sound if the CPU/system/power fan is not connected or fails. Check the
fan condition or fan connection when this occurs. (Default: Disabled)
CPU Smart FAN 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 Smart FAN Control is
set to Manual. Options are: 0.75 PWM value /oC ~ 2.50 PWM value /oC.
CPU Smart FAN Mode
Specifies how to control CPU fan speed. This item is configurable only when CPU Smart FAN Control is
enabled.
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.
- 51 - BIOS Setup
2-9 Load Fail-Safe Defaults
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Press <Enter> on this item and then press the <Y> key to load the safest BIOS default settings.
In case system instability occurs, you may try to load Fail-Safe defaults, which are the safest and most stable
BIOS settings for the motherboard.
Press <Enter> on this item and then press the <Y> key 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.
BIOS Setup - 52 -
2-11 Set Supervisor/User Password
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Press <Enter> on this item and type the password with up to 8 characters and then press <Enter>. You will be
requested to confirm the password. Type the password again and press <Enter>.
The BIOS Setup program allows you to specify two separate passwords:
Supervisor Password
When a system password is set and the Password Check item in Advanced BIOS Features is set to
Setup, you must enter the supervisor password for entering BIOS Setup and making BIOS changes.
When the Password Check item is set to System, you must enter the supervisor password (or user
password) at system startup and when entering BIOS Setup.
User Password
When the Password Check item is set to System, you must enter the supervisor password (or user pass-
word) at system startup to continue system boot. In BIOS Setup, you must enter the supervisor password if
you wish to make changes to BIOS settings. The user password only allows you to view the BIOS settings
but not to make changes.
To clear the password, press <Enter> on the password item and when requested for the password, press <Enter>
again. The message "PASSWORD DISABLED" will appear, indicating the password has been cancelled.
- 53 - BIOS Setup
2-12 Save & Exit Setup
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Press <Enter> on this item and press the <Y> key. This saves the changes to the CMOS and exits the BIOS
Setup program. Press <N> or <Esc> to return to the BIOS Setup Main Menu.
Press <Enter> on this item and press the <Y> key. This exits the BIOS Setup without saving the changes made
in BIOS Setup to the CMOS. Press <N> or <Esc> to return to the BIOS Setup Main Menu.
BIOS Setup - 54 -
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 Run.exe program.)
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.)
- 55 - 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.
Drivers Installation - 56 -
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.
- 57 - 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.
Drivers Installation - 58 -
Chapter 4 Unique Features
4-1 Xpress Recovery2
Xpress Recovery2 is a utility that allows you to quickly compress and
back up your system data and perform restoration of it. Supporting NTFS,
FAT32, and FAT16 file systems, Xpress Recovery2 can back up data on
PATA and SATA hard drives and restore it.
Before You Begin:
Xpress Recovery2 will check the first physical hard drive for the operating system. Xpress Recovery2 can
only back up/restore the first physical hard drive that has the operating system installed.
As Xpress Recovery2 will save the backup file at the end of the hard drive, make sure to leave enough un-
allocated space in advanced (10 GB or more is recommended; actual size requirements vary, depending
on the amount of data).
It is recommended to back up your system soon after the operating system and drivers are installed.
The amount of data and hard drive access speed may affect the speed at which the data is backed up/
restored.
It takes longer to back up a hard drive than to restore it.
System Requirements:
At least 512 MB of system memory
VESA compatible graphics card
Windows XP with SP1 or later, Windows Vista, Windows 7
Xpress Recovery and Xpress Recovery2 are different utilities. For example, a backup file created
with Xpress Recovery cannot be restored using Xpress Recovery2.
USB hard drives are not supported.
RAID drives are not supported.
GPT partitions are not supported.
Hard drives larger than 2.2 TB are not supported.
Installation and Configuration:
Turn on your system to boot from the Windows Vista setup disk.
A. Installing Windows Vista and Partitioning the Hard Drive
Step 1: Step 2:
Click Drive options. Click New.
(Note) Xpress Recovery2 checks the first physical hard drive in the following sequence: The first SATA connector, the second
SATA connector and so forth. For example, When hard drives are attached to the first and third SATA connectors, the hard
drive on the first SATA connector is the first physical drive.
- 59 - Unique Features
Step 3: Step 4:
When partitioning your hard drive, make sure to After the operating system is installed, click Start,
leave unallocated space (10 GB or more is recom- right-click the Computer and select Manage. Go to
mended; actual size requirements vary, depending Disk Management to check disk allocation.
on the amount of data) and begin the installation of
the operating system.
Step 5:
Xpress Recovery2 will save the backup file to the unallocated
space (black stripe along the top). Please note that if there is no
enough unallocated space, Xpress Recovery2 cannot save the
backup file.
Step 1: Step 2:
Select BACKUP to start backing up your hard drive When finished, go to Disk Management to check
data. disk allocation.
Unique Features - 60 -
D. Using the Restore Function in Xpress Recovery2
Select RESTORE to restore the backup to your hard drive in
case the system breaks down. The RESTORE option will not be
present if no backup is created before.
Step 1: Step 2:
If you wish to remove the backup file, select After the backup file is removed, no backup image
REMOVE. file will be present in Disk Management and hard
drive space will be freed up.
- 61 - Unique Features
4-2 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 environ-
ment. @BIOS will download the latest BIOS file from the nearest @BIOS server
site and update the BIOS.
<DEL>: BIOS Setup <F9>: XpressRecovery2 <F12>: Boot Menu <End>: Qflash
05/12/2011-Z68-7A89WG0DC-00
Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, please do it with caution. Inadequate BIOS flashing may
result in system malfunction.
Unique Features - 62 -
B. Updating the BIOS
When updating the BIOS, choose the location where the BIOS file is saved. The following procedure as-
sumes 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, use
the up or down arrow key to select Update BIOS from Drive and press <Enter>.
The Save Main 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 HDD 1-0 and press <Enter>.
Q-Flash Utility v2.23
Flash Type/Size................................. MXIC 25L3206E 4M
0 file(s) found
Keep DMI Data Enable
HDD 1-0 Load CMOS Default Enable <Drive>
Update BIOS from Drive
Save BIOS to Drive
Enter : Run hi:Move ESC:Reset F10:Power Off
Total size : 0 Free size : 0
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, press <Enter> 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, press any key to return to the main menu.
Q-Flash Utility v2.23
Flash Type/Size................................. MXIC 25L3206E 4M
- 63 - Unique Features
Step 4:
Press <Esc> and then <Enter> to exit Q-Flash and reboot the system. As the system boots, you should see
the new BIOS version is present on the POST screen.
Step 5:
During the POST, press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Select Load Optimized Defaults 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.
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Step 6:
Select Save & Exit Setup and then press <Y> to save settings to CMOS and exit BIOS Setup. The proce-
dure is complete after the system restarts.
Unique Features - 64 -
4-2-2 Updating the BIOS with the @BIOS Utility
B. Using @BIOS
- 65 - Unique Features
4-3 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.
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 system clock settings and voltages.
Quick Boost mode provides you with 3 levels of CPU frequency/base clock to choose to achieve
desired system performance. (Note)
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 allows you to adjust the CPU base clock only.
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 ATI or NVIDIA
graphics card.
The Smart tab allows you to specify a Smart Fan mode. Smart Fan Advanced mode allows the CPU fan
speed to be changed linearly based on the CPU 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).
(Note) Due to the hardware limitation, you must install a DDR3 1066 MHz memory module(s) (or above) to enable support
for Quick Boost.
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.
Unique Features - 66 -
4-4 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.
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.
- 67 - Unique Features
4-5 Smart 6
GIGABYTE Smart 6 (Note 1) is designed with user-friendliness in mind, and offers a combination of 6 innovative
software utilities that provide easier and smarter PC system management. Smart 6 allows you to speed up
system performance, reduce boot-up time, manage a secure platform and recover specified files easily with a
click of the mouse button.
SMART QuickBoot
SMART QuickBoot speeds up the system boot-up process and shortens the waiting time for en-
tering the operating system, delivering greater efficiency for daily use.
Instructions:
Select the Enable check box below the BIOS QuickBoot or OS
QuickBoot item and then click Save to save the settings.
SMART QuickBoost
SMART QuickBoost features quick and effortless CPU overclocking for novice and experienced
users alike; users simply click on one of the three levels of CPU performance enhancement, and
SMART QuickBoost automatically adjusts CPU performance.
Instructions:
Select a CPU performance boost level and restart your computer for
the changes to take effect.
Unique Features - 68 -
SMART Recovery 2
Smart Recovery 2 allows you to back up a partition as an image file every hour. You can use
these images to restore your system or files when needed.
Creating a backup:
Click the Settings button on the main menu. In the Settings dialog
box, select the source partition and destination partition and click OK.
The initial backup will start after 10 minutes and regular backup will
be performed hourly. Note: By default, all partitions on the system
drive are selected as the backup source. The backup destination
cannot be on the same partition as the backup source.
Recovering a file:
Click the File Recovery button on the main menu. Use the time
slider on the top of the popped out window to select a previous
backup time. The right pane will display the backed-up partitions in
the backup destination (in the My Backup folder). Browse to the file
you want and copy it.
- 69 - Unique Features
Recovering your system with Smart Recovery 2 (Windows 7 only):
Steps:
1. Click the System Recovery button on the main menu.
2. Select the partition where your backup is saved.
3. Use the time slider to select a time point.
4. Select a partition backup created on the selected time point and
click Restore.
5. Confirm whether to restart your system to proceed with the restore
immediately or later. Once you respond "Yes" the system will re-
start to the Windows recovery environment. Follow the on-screen
instructions to restore your system.
For Windows Vista, refer to the steps below to use the original
Windows installation disk for system recovery.
All of your files and programs will be deleted and replaced with
those on the selected backup. If needed, be sure to make a copy
of your data before the restore.
SMART DualBIOS
SMART DualBIOS is a new feature that can record personal passwords and important dates,
and remind users of the dates. It also stores the recorded data in the main and backup BIOS
simultaneously, which can prevent loss of the data in case the system/hard drive fails.
Instructions:
Enter the Smart 6 password to launch the SMART DualBIOS utility.
You can record personal passwords and important dates and set re-
minders of these dates. Click Save to save the settings and click Exit
to exit.
Unique Features - 70 -
SMART Recorder
SMART Recorder monitors and records the activities in a system such as the time when the
computer was turned on/off or even when large data files were moved within the hard drive or
copied to an external storage device (Note 2).
Instructions:
Select the Enable check box at the bottom of the ON/OFF Recorder
or File Monitor tab to enable the recording of system on/off time or
files copying. Entering the Smart 6 password is required before you
make any changes to the previous settings.
SMART TimeLock
SMART TimeLock allows users to effectively manage computer usage time with simple rules and
options.
Instructions (Note 3):
Click the lock icon on the bottom left corner and enter the Smart 6
password. Set the time when a user can or cannot use your computer
for weekdays and weekends. Click Save to save the settings and
click Exit to exit.
(Note 1) When launching Smart 6 for the first time, the system will request you to set up a password. This password is
required when you activate SMART DualBIOS or when you want to make changes to the SMART Recorder or
SMART TimeLock settings.
(Note 2) You will not be able to use the "Safely Remove Hardware" feature in the operating system with SMART Recorder
enabled. To remove an external storage device, unplug it directly from your computer (please note that doing so
may result in damage to the hardware device or loss of data).
(Note 3) You can set the User Password in the system BIOS Setup program to prevent the system time being changed by other
users.
- 71 - Unique Features
4-6 Auto Green
Auto Green is an easy-to-use tool that provides users with simple options to enable system power savings
via a Bluetooth cell phone. When the phone is out of the range of the computer's Bluetooth receiver, the sys-
tem will enter the specified power saving mode.
The Configuration dialog box:
First, you have to set your Bluetooth cell phone as a portable key. On the Auto Green
main menu, click Configure and then click Configure BT devices. Select the Blu-
etooth cell phone that you want to use as the portable key (Note 1). (If the screen doesn't
display your Bluetooth cell phone, click Refresh to let Auto Green re-detect the device.)
Before creating a Bluetooth cell phone key, make sure your motherboard
has a Bluetooth receiver and you have turned on the search and Bluetooth
functions on your phone.
Configuring the Bluetooth cell phone key:
After you select a cell phone, the Add device as shown on the left will appear. Enter
a passkey (8~16 digits recommended) which will be used for pairing with the cell
phone. Then enter the same passkey on your cell phone.
(Note 1) If your cell phone has been configured as the Auto Green key, you'll not be able to use it to connect to other
Bluetooth device(s) when Auto Green is enabled.
(Note 2) Whether the Bluetooth dongle is included depends on the motherboard models. Before installing the Bluetooth
dongle, be sure to turn off other Bluetooth receiver on your computer.
Unique Features - 72 -
4-7 eXtreme Hard Drive (X.H.D)
With GIGABYTE eXtreme Hard Drive (X.H.D) (Note 1), users can quickly configure a RAID-
ready system for RAID 0 when a new SATA drive is added. For a RAID 0 array that al-
ready exists, users also can use X.H.D to easily add a hard drive into the array to expand
its capacity. All with a simple click of a button, X.H.D helps to enhance your hard drive
read/write performance without the need for complex and time-consuming configurations. The following procedure
details the steps to set up a RAID-ready system and configure it for RAID 0.
(Note 1) The X.H.D utility only supports the SATA controllers integrated in the Intel Chipset.
(Note 2) It is recommended that before you run the X.H.D utility, back up all of your data to avoid risk of
hardware damage or lost of data.
(Note 3) If you manually build a non-RAID 0 array, you'll not be able to automatically set up a RAID 0 array
later using the Auto function.
- 73 - Unique Features
4-8 Cloud OC
Cloud OC (Note 1) is an easy-to-use overclocking utility designed for system overclock-
ing via virtually any Internet-connected device, such as a smart phone, iPhone, note-
book PC, etc. By simply connecting to an Internet browser via LAN, wireless LAN, or
Bluetooth (Note 2) and logging in to the Cloud OC server, you can easily access three major functions of Cloud
OC, including Tuner (system tweaking), System Info (system monitoring), and Control (system status control).
A. Launching Cloud OC
Step 1:
The first time you launch Cloud OC, the system will request you to set up a password which will be required for login to the
Cloud OC server.
Step 2: Step 3:
Find the Cloud OC icon When the Cloud
in the notification area and OC web page ap-
right click the icon to select pears, click Login,
Start Server to launch the enter the previously
Cloud OC server. The Cloud configured pass-
OC server will provide a word, and then click Send and you will be able to view your
dedicated IP and you can system status.
enter this IP address in an
Internet-connected browser to log in to the Cloud OC server
later.
B. Directions for use (Note 3)
Tuner (System Tweaking):
The Tuner tab provides a full range of tweaking options that include CPU,
memory, graphics, and PCIe frequencies and voltages. Click the <+> or <-> but-
ton under an item you want to configure or directly enter a value, and click Set
XXXX to complete.
(Note 1) Supported on Windows 7, Vista, and XP. For Windows XP, be sure to update Internet Explorer to version 7.0 or later. When
using Cloud OC, make sure the Internet connection is normal. Cloud OC will be unable to connect to the remote computer
when the Internet is disconnected or when the remote computer is in power off , standby, or hibernation mode.
(Note 2) Bluetooth PAN (Personal Area Network) support is required.
(Note 3) Available functions may differ by motherboard model.
Unique Features - 74 -
4-9 TouchBIOS
TouchBIOS allows you to configure your BIOS settings in Windows environment with a click of your mouse
and a touch of your screen.
Allows you to configure Advanced BIOS Fea- Allows you to configure Power Management
tures. settings.
Enables QuickBoost utility. Provides quick and
effortless CPU overclocking for novice and ex- Loads Optimized Defaults.
perienced users alike.
Displays system health status, including system
Sets Supervisor Password.
temperature, fan speeds, and voltage values.
- 75 - Unique Features
Unique Features - 76 -
Chapter 5 Appendix
5-1 Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)
(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) When a RAID set is built across the SATA 6Gb/s and SATA 3Gb/s channels, the system perfor-
mance of the RAID set may vary depending on the devices being connected.
- 77 - 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 PCH SATA Control Mode under the Integrated Peripherals menu to RAID(XHD) (Figure 1)
(IDE by default). If you do not want to create RAID, set this item to IDE or AHCI.
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2011 Award Software
Integrated Peripherals
eXtreme Hard Drive (XHD) [Disabled] Item Help
PCH SATA Control Mode [RAID(XHD)] Menu Level
OROM UI and Banner [Enabled]
SATA Port0-3 Native Mode [Enabled]
USB Controllers [Enabled]
USB Legacy Function [Enabled]
USB Storage Function [Enabled]
Azalia Codec [Auto]
Onboard H/W LAN [Enabled]
} SMART LAN [Press Enter]
Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
Onboard USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled]
Onboard Serial Port 1 [3F8/IQR4]
Onboard Parallel Port [378/IRQ7]
Parallel Port Mode [SPP]
: Move Enter: Select +/-/PU/PD: Value F10: Save ESC: Exit F1: General Help
F5: Previous Values F6: Fail-Safe Defaults F7: Optimized Defaults
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 moth-
erboard. The actual BIOS Setup menu options you will see shall depend on the motherboard you
have and the BIOS version.
Appendix - 78 -
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 Configura-
tion Utility.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
RAID Volumes :
None defined.
Physical Devices :
Port Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
Figure 2
Step 2:
After you press <Ctrl> + <I>, the MAIN MENU screen will appear (Figure 3).
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
None defined.
Physical Deivces :
Port Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
Figure 3
- 79 - 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, Recovery, 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 - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
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
Sync : N/A
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
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 - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
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
Sync : N/A
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
The following are typical values:
RAID0 - 128KB
RAID10 - 64KB
RAID5 - 64KB
Figure 5
Appendix - 80 -
Step 5:
Enter the array capacity and press <Enter>. Finally press <Enter> on the Create Volume item to begin creat-
ing 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 - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
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
Sync : N/A
Create Volume
WARNING : ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.
[ HELP ]
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N) :
Figure 6
When completed, you can see detailed information about the RAID array in the DISK/VOLUME INFORMA-
TION section, including the RAID level, stripe block size, array name, and array capacity, etc. (Figure 7)
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
ID Name Level Strip Size Status Bootable
0 Volume0 RAID0(Stripe) 128KB 223.6GB Normal Yes
Physical Devices :
Port Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Member Disk(0)
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Member Disk(0)
Figure 7
To exit the RAID BIOS utility, press <Esc> or select 6. Exit in MAIN MENU.
Now, you can proceed to create the SATA RAID/AHCI driver diskette and install the SATA RAID/AHCI
driver and operating system.
- 81 - Appendix
Recovery Volume Options
Intel Rapid Recover Technology provides data protection by allowing users to easily restore data and system
operation using a designated recovery drive. With the Rapid Recovery Technology, which employs RAID 1
functionality, users can copy the data from the master drive to the recovery drive; if needed, the data on the
recovery drive can be restored back to the master drive.
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
None defined.
Physical Disks :
Port Drive Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
Figure 8
Step 2:
After entering the volume name, select Recovery under the RAID Level item and press <Enter> (Figure 9).
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : Recovery
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : N/A
Capacity : 0.0 GB
Sync : Continuous
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
Figure 9
Appendix - 82 -
Step 3:
Press <Enter> under the Select Disks item. In the SELECT DISKS box, press <Tab> on the hard drive you
want to use for the master drive and press <Space> on the hard drive you want to use for the recovery drive.
(Make sure the recovery drive has equal or larger capacity than the master drive.) Then press <Enter> to
confirm (Figure 10).
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : Recovery
Disks : Select
[ SELECT DISKS Disks
]
Strip Size : 128KB
Capacity : 223.6 GB
Port Drive Model Serial # Create Size
Volume Status
M0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
R1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
[ HELP ]
Choose the RAID level:
RAID0: Stripes data (performance).
Select 1 Master RAID1: Mirrors disk
and 1 Recovery data to
(redundancy).
create volume.
Recovery: Copies data between a master and a recovery disk.
RAID10: Mirrors data and stripes the mirror.
[hi]-Prev/Next [TAB]-(M)aster
RAID5: Stripes[SPACE]-(R)ecovery
data and parity. [ENTER]-Done
Figure 10
Step 4:
Under Sync, select Continuous or On Request (Figure 11). When set to Continuous, changes made to
the data on the master drive will be automatically and continuously copied to the recovery drive when both
hard drives are installed in the system. On Request allows users to update data from the master drive to the
recovery drive manually using the Intel Rapid Storage Technology utility in the operating system. On Request
also allows users to restore the master drive to a previous state.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : Recovery
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : N/A
Capacity : 117.7 GB
Sync : Continuous
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
- 83 - 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 12), press <Y> to confirm or <N> to abort.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
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
* = Accelerated Volume
Figure 12
Acceleration Options
This option allows you to view the status of your accelerated drive/volume (Figure 13) created using the Intel
IRST utility. In case you are unable to run the Intel IRST utility due to an application error or operating system
issue, you will need to remove acceleration or manually enable synchronization (Maximized mode only) using
this option in the RAID ROM utility.
Steps:
Select Acceleration Options in MAIN MENU and press <Enter>.
To remove the acceleration, select the accelerated drive/volume, press <R>, and press <Y> to confirm.
To synchronize data from the cache device to the accelerated drive/volume, press <S> and press <Y> to
confirm.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ ACCELERATION OPTIONS ]
Name Type Capacity Mode Status
DISK PORT 3 Non-RAID Disk 74.5GB Enhanced In Sync
[ HELP ]
Press 's' to synchronize data from the cache device to
the Accelerated Disk/Volume
Figure 13
Appendix - 84 -
5-1-3 Installing the SATA RAID/AHCI Driver and Operating System
With the correct BIOS settings, you are ready to install Windows 7/Vista/XP.
B. Installing Windows XP
Before installing Windows XP, connect a USB floppy disk drive to your computer first because you need to in-
stall 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 the Intel Z68, copy all files in the \BootDrv\iRST\32Bit folder to your floppy disk. To install Windows
64-Bit, copy the files in the 64Bit folder.
Method B:
Steps:
1: Use an alternative system and insert the motherboard driver disk.
2: From your optical drive folder, double click the Menu.exe file in the BootDrv folder. A Command Prompt
window will open similar to that in Figure 1.
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 1,
For the Intel Z68, select 8) Intel Rapid Storage driver for 32bit system for Windows XP 32-bit op-
erating system.
Your system will then automatically copy the driver files to the floppy disk. Press any key to exit when finished.
Figure 1
- 85 - Appendix
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 mes-
sage "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:
For the Intel Z68:
Insert the floppy disk containing the SATA RAID/AHCI driver and press <Enter>. Then a controller menu
similar to that in Figure 2 will appear. Select Intel(R) Desktop/Workstation/Server Express Chipset SATA
RAID Controller and press <Enter>. For AHCI mode, use the up arrow key on the keyboard to scroll to the
Intel(R) Desktop/Workstation/Server Express Chipset SATA AHCI Controller item and press <Enter>.
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.
ENTER=Select F3=Exit
Figure 2
Step 3:
On the next screen, press <Enter> to continue the driver installation. After the driver installation, you can pro-
ceed with the Windows XP installation.
Appendix - 86 -
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 or 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 Z68:
Turn off your computer and replace the failed hard drive with a new one. Restart your computer.
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 (look for the Intel
Rapid Storage Technology icon in the notification area, which will show that a RAID volume is being
rebuilt). 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 - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]
1. Create RAID Volume 4. Recovery Volume Options
2. Delete RAID Volume 5. Acceleration Options
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID 6. 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 :
Port 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.
- 87 - Appendix
Performing the Rebuild in the Operating System
While in the operating system, make sure the chipset driver has been installed from the motherboard driver
disk. Then launch the Intel Rapid Storage Technology utility from All Programs in the Start menu.
Step 2:
Select a new drive to rebuild the RAID and click
Rebuild.
Step 1:
Go to the Manage menu and click Rebuild to
another disk in Manage Volume.
Appendix - 88 -
Restoring the Master Drive to a Previous State (for Recovery Volume only)
When two hard drives are set to Recovery Volume in Update on Request mode, you can restore the master
drive data to the last backup state when needed. For example, in case the master drive detects a virus, you
can restore the recovery drive data to the master drive.
Step 1:
Select 4. Recovery Volume Options in the MAIN MENU of the Intel RAID Configuration Utility. On the RE-
COVERY VOLUMES OPTIONS menu, select Enable Only Recovery Disk to show the recovery drive in the
operating system. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete and exit the RAID Configuration Utility.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 10.5.0.1034
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ RECOVERY VOLUME OPTIONS ]
1. Enable Only Recovery Disk
2. Enable Only Master Disk
[ SELECT RECOVERY VOLUME ]
Step 3:
Click Yes to begin the data recovery.
Step 2:
Go to the Manage menu of the Intel Rapid Stor-
age Technology utility and click Recover data in
Manage Volume.
The motherboard provides three audio jacks on the back panel which
support 2/4/5.1/7.1 (Note)-channel audio. The picture to the right shows
the default audio jack assignments. Line In
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 simultane-
ously. If you want to mute the back panel audio (only supported when using an HD front panel
audio module), refer to instructions on page 92.
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.
Appendix - 90 -
The pictures to the right show the 7.1-channel speak- 7.1-Channel Speakers:
er configurations.
Front Speaker Out
Center/Subwoofer
Speaker Out
Step 2:
Connect an audio device to an audio jack. The The cur-
rent 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 Configura-
tion 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.
- 91 - Appendix
C. Activating an AC'97 Front Panel Audio Module
If your chassis provides an AC'97 front panel audio mod-
ule, 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.
Appendix - 92 -
5-2-2 Configuring S/PDIF Out
The S/PDIF Out jack can transmit audio signals to an external decoder for decoding to get the best audio
quality.
(Note) Enter the Digital Output(Optical) screen to configure further settings if you use the S/PDIF Out
connector 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.
- 93 - Appendix
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 function-
ality.
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 record-
ing 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 recom-
mended 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.
Appendix - 94 -
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.
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 de-
vice.
- 95 - Appendix
Step 4:
Now you can access the HD Audio Manager to config-
ure Stereo Mix and use Sound Recorder to record the
sound.
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.
Appendix - 96 -
5-3 Troubleshooting
Q: In the BIOS Setup program, why are some BIOS options missing?
A: Some advanced options are hidden in the BIOS Setup program. Press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup during the POST. In
the Main Menu, press <Ctrl>+<F1> to show the advanced options.
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: 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."
- 97 - Appendix
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.
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...)
Appendix - 98 -
A
Turn off the computer. Plug in the keyboard and mouse and restart
the computer.
END
If the procedure above is unable to solve your problem, contact the place of purchase or local deal-
er 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.
- 99 - Appendix
Appendix - 100 -
- 101 - Appendix
Appendix - 102 -
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 : http://www.gigabyte.cn
New Taipei City 231,Taiwan Shanghai
TEL: +886-2-8912-4000 TEL: +86-21-63410999
FAX: +886-2-8912-4003 FAX: +86-21-63410100
Tech. and Non-Tech. Support (Sales/Marketing) : Beijing
http://ggts.gigabyte.com.tw TEL: +86-10-62102838
WEB address (English): http://www.gigabyte.com FAX: +86-10-62102848
WEB address (Chinese): http://www.gigabyte.tw Wuhan
G.B.T. INC. - U.S.A. TEL: +86-27-87851061
TEL: +1-626-854-9338 FAX: +86-27-87851330
FAX: +1-626-854-9339 GuangZhou
Tech. Support: TEL: +86-20-87540700
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Web address: http://www.gigabyte.us Chengdu
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Tel: +1-626-854-9338 x 215 (Soporte de habla hispano) FAX: +86-28-85256822
FAX: +1-626-854-9339 Xian
Correo: soporte@gigabyte-usa.com TEL: +86-29-85531943
Tech. Support: FAX: +86-29-85510930
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Giga-Byte SINGAPORE PTE. LTD. - Singapore FAX: +86-24-83992909
WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.sg GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY (INDIA) LIMITED - India
Thailand WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.in
WEB address : http://th.giga-byte.com Saudi Arabia
Vietnam WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.com.sa
WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.vn Gigabyte Technology Pty. Ltd. - Australia
WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.com.au
- 103 - Appendix
G.B.T. TECHNOLOGY TRADING GMBH - Germany Hungary
WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.de WEB address : http://www.giga-byte.hu
G.B.T. TECH. CO., LTD. - U.K. Turkey
WEB address : http://www.giga-byte.co.uk WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.com.tr
Giga-Byte Technology B.V. - The Netherlands Russia
WEB address : http://www.giga-byte.nl WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.ru
GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY FRANCE - France Poland
WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.fr WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.pl
Sweden Ukraine
WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.se WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.ua
Italy Romania
WEB address : http://www.giga-byte.it WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.com.ro
Spain Serbia
WEB address : http://www.giga-byte.es WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.co.rs
Greece Kazakhstan
WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.com.gr WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.kz
Czech Republic You may go to the GIGABYTE website, select your language
WEB address : http://www.gigabyte.cz in the language list on the top right corner of the website.
Appendix - 104 -