ASROCK 890GX Extreme3 User manual

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Copyright Notice:Copyright Notice:
Copyright Notice:Copyright Notice:
Copyright Notice:
No part of this installation guide may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, or trans-
lated in any language, in any form or by any means, except duplication of documen-
tation by the purchaser for backup purpose, without written consent of ASRock Inc.
Products and corporate names appearing in this guide may or may not be registered
trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identifica-
tion or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
Disclaimer:Disclaimer:
Disclaimer:Disclaimer:
Disclaimer:
Specifications and information contained in this guide are furnished for informational
use only and subject to change without notice, and should not be constructed as a
commitment by ASRock. ASRock assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions
that may appear in this guide.
With respect to the contents of this guide, ASRock does not provide warranty of any kind,
either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties or
conditions of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. In no event shall
ASRock, its directors, officers, employees, or agents be liable for any indirect, special,
incidental, or consequential damages (including damages for loss of profits, loss of
business, loss of data, interruption of business and the like), even if ASRock has been
advised of the possibility of such damages arising from any defect or error in the guide
or product.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
Published March 2010
Copyright©2010 ASRock INC. All rights reserved.
CALIFORNIA, USA ONLY
The Lithium battery adopted on this motherboard contains Perchlorate, a toxic
substance controlled in Perchlorate Best Management Practices (BMP) regulations
passed by the California Legislature. When you discard the Lithium battery in
California, USA, please follow the related regulations in advance.
“Perchlorate Material-special handling may apply, see
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate”
ASRock Website: http://www.asrock.com

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Motherboard LayoutMotherboard Layout
Motherboard LayoutMotherboard Layout
Motherboard Layout
1 PS2_USB_PW1 Jumper 23 Power Switch (PWRBTN)
2 ATX 12V Power Connector (ATX12V1) 24 Front Panel IEEE 1394 Header
3 CPU Heatsink Retention Module (FRONT_1394, White)
4 AM3 CPU Socket 25 Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1)
5 Power Fan Connector (PWR_FAN1) 26 USB 2.0 Header (USB12_13, Blue)
6 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1) 27 USB_PW3 Jumper
7 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots 28 USB 2.0 Header (USB10_11, Blue)
(Dual Channel A: DDR3_A1, DDR3_B1; Blue) 29 USB 2.0 Header (USB8_9, Blue)
8 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots 30 USB 2.0 Header (USB6_7, Blue)
(Dual Channel B: DDR3_A2, DDR3_B2; White) 31 Serial Port Connector (COM1)
9 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1) 32 Infrared Module Header (IR1)
10 ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1) 33 HDMI_SPDIF Header
11 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN2) (HDMI_SPDIF1, White)
12 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN3) 34 Front Panel Audio Header
13 Northbridge Controller (HD_AUDIO1, White)
14 Southbridge Controller 35 PCI Slot (PCI3)
15 SATA3 Connector (SATA3_5_6, White) 36 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE4; White)
16 SATA3 Connector (SATA3_3_4, White) 37 PCI Slot (PCI2)
17 SATA3 Connector (SATA3_1_2, White) 38 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE3; Blue)
18 Dr. Debug (LED) 39 SPI Flash Memory (8Mb)
19 Power LED Header (PLED1) 40 PCI Slot (PCI1)
20 Chassis Speaker Header (SPEAKER 1, White) 41 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE2; Blue)
21 System Panel Header (PANEL1, White) 42 PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slot (PCIE1; White)
22 Reset Switch (RSTBTN) 43 USB_PW2 Jumper

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I/O PI/O P
I/O PI/O P
I/O Panelanel
anelanel
anel
LAN Port
ACT/LINK
LED SPEED LED
* There are two LED next to the LAN port. Please refer to the table below for the LAN port LED
indications.
LAN Port LED Indications
Activity/Link LED SPEED LED
Status Description Status Description
Off No Link Off 10Mbps connection
Blinking Data Activity Orange 100Mbps connection
On Link Green 1Gbps connection
1 USB 2.0 Ports (USB45) 10 Microphone (Pink)
2 VGA/D-Sub Port 11 USB 3.0 Port (USB01)
3 USB 2.0 Ports (USB23) 12 IEEE 1394 Port (IEEE 1394)
* 4 LAN RJ-45 Port 13 eSATA2 Connector
5 Central / Bass (Orange) 14 Clear CMOS Switch (CLRCBTN)
6 Rear Speaker (Black) 15 VGA/HDMI Port
7 Optical SPDIF Out Port 16 VGA/DVI-D Port
8 Line In (Light Blue) 17 PS/2 Keyboard Port (Purple)
** 9 Front Speaker (Lime)
** If you use 2-channel speaker, please connect the speaker’s plug into “Front Speaker Jack”.
See the table below for connection details in accordance with the type of speaker you use.
TABLE for Audio Output Connection
Audio Output Channels Front Speaker Rear Speaker Central / Bass Line In
(No. 9) (No. 6) (No. 5) or
Side Speaker
(No. 8)
2 V -- -- --
4VV----
6 VVV--
8 VVVV

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To enable Multi-Streaming function, you need to connect a front panel audio cable to the front
panel audio header. After restarting your computer, you will find “VIA HD Audio Deck” tool on
your system. Please follow below instructions according to the OS you install.
For Windows®XP / XP 64-bit OS:
Please click “VIA HDAudio Deck” icon. Click “Jack” and then click “Configuration”. In
“Configuration” screen, please check the item “Independent Headphone”.
For Windows®7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS:
Please click “VIA HDAudio Deck” icon. Click “Advanced Options” on the right side on the
bottom. In “Advanced Options” screen, please check the item “Independent Headphone”.
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1.1.
1.1.
1. IntroductionIntroduction
IntroductionIntroduction
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing ASRock 890GX Extreme3 motherboard, a reliable
motherboard produced under ASRock’s consistently stringent quality control. It de-
livers excellent performance with robust design conforming to ASRock’s commit-
ment to quality and endurance.
In this manual, chapter 1 and 2 contain introduction of the motherboard and step-by-step
guide to the hardware installation. Chapter 3 and 4 contain the configuration guide to
BIOS setup and information of the Support CD.
Because the motherboard specifications and the BIOS software might
be updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without
notice. In case any modifications of this manual occur, the updated
version will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You
may find the latest VGA cards and CPU support lists on ASRock website
as well. ASRock website http://www.asrock.com
If you require technical support related to this motherboard, please visit
our website for specific information about the model you are using.
www.asrock.com/support/index.asp
1.11.1
1.11.1
1.1 Package ContentsPackage Contents
Package ContentsPackage Contents
Package Contents
ASRock 890GX Extreme3 Motherboard
(ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
ASRock 890GX Extreme3 Quick Installation Guide
ASRock 890GX Extreme3 Support CD
4 x SerialATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional)
1 x Serial ATA (SATA) HDD Power Cable (Optional)
1 x eSATA3 Bracket (Optional)
1 x I/O Panel Shield
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1.21.2
1.21.2
1.2 SpecificationsSpecifications
SpecificationsSpecifications
Specifications
Platform -ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm
- All Solid Capacitor design (100% Japan-made high-quality
Conductive Polymer Capacitors)
CPU - Support for Socket AM3 processors:AMD PhenomTM II X4 /
X3 / X2 (except 920 / 940) / Athlon II X4 / X3 / X2 / Sempron
processors
- Six-Core CPU Ready
- Supports UCC feature (Unlock CPU Core) (see CAUTION 1)
- Advanced V8 + 2 Power Phase Design
- Supports CPU up to 140W
- Supports AMD’s Cool ‘n’ QuietTM Technology
- FSB 2600 MHz (5.2 GT/s)
- Supports Untied Overclocking Technology (see CAUTION 2)
- Supports Hyper-Transport 3.0 (HT 3.0) Technology
Chipset -Northbridge: AMD890GX
- Southbridge: AMD SB850
Memory - Dual Channel DDR3 Memory Technology (see CAUTION 3)
- 4 xDDR3DIMM slots
- SupportDDR3 1800(OC)/1600(OC)/1333/1066/800 non-ECC,
un-buffered memory (see CAUTION 4)
- Max. capacity of system memory: 16GB (see CAUTION 5)
Expansion Slot - 3 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot
(blue: single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode; white: x4 mode)
- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot
- 3 x PCI slots
- Supports ATITM Quad CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM,
CrossFireXTM and Hybrid CrossFireXTM
Graphics - Integrated AMDRadeon HD 4290 graphics
- DX10.1 class iGPU, Shader Model 4.1
- Max. shared memory 512MB (see CAUTION 6)
- Built-in 128MBDDR3 1333/1200MHz SidePort Memory
- Three VGA Output options:D-Sub, DVI-D and HDMI
- Supports HDMI Technology with max. resolution up to
1920x1200 (1080P)
- Supports Dual-linkDVI with max. resolution up to 2560x1600
@ 75Hz
- Supports D-Sub with max. resolution up to 2048x1536
@ 85Hz
- Supports HDCP function withDVI and HDMI ports

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- Supports Full HD 1080p Blu-ray (BD) / HD-DVD playback
with DVI and HDMI ports
Audio - 7.1 CH HDAudio with Content Protection
- DAC with 110dB dynamic range (VIA®VT2020 Audio Codec)
- Premium Blu-ray audio support
LAN - PCIE x1Gigabit LAN10/100/1000 Mb/s
- Realtek RTL8111E
- Supports Wake-On-LAN
- Supports LAN CableDetection
Rear Panel I/O I/OPanel
- 1 x PS/2 Keyboard Port
- 1 x VGA/D-Sub Port
- 1 x VGA/DVI-D Port
- 1 x HDMI Port
- 1 x Optical SPDIF Out Port
- 4 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports
- 1 x eSATA2 Connector
- 1 x eSATA3 Connector through the Bundled eSATA3 Bracket
- 2 x Ready-to-Use USB 3.0 Ports
-1 xRJ-45LANPortwithLED(ACT/LINK LEDand SPEEDLED)
- 1 x IEEE 1394 Port
- 1 x Clear CMOS Switch with LED
- HDAudio Jack: Rear Speaker/Central/Bass/Line in/
Front Speaker/Microphone (see CAUTION 7)
USB 3.0 - 2 x USB 3.0 port byNEC MPD720200, support USB 1.0/2.0/
3.0 up to 5Gb/s
SATA3 - 6 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0,
RAID1, RAID0+1 and RAID5), NCQ,AHCI and "Hot Plug"
functions
eSATA3 - 1 x eSATA3 6.0 Gb/s connector through the bundled eSATA3
bracket, supports NCQ,AHCI and "Hot Plug" functions
Connector - 6 x SATA3 6.0Gb/s connectors
- 1 x IR header
- 1 x COM port header
- 1 x IEEE 1394 header
- 1 x HDMI_SPDIF header
- 1 x Power LED header
- CPU/Chassis/Power FAN connector
- 24 pin ATX power connector
- 8 pin 12V power connector
- Front panel audio connector

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- 4 x USB 2.0 headers (support 8 USB 2.0 ports)
(see CAUTION 8)
- 1 x Dr. Debug (7-SegmentDebug LED)
Smart Switch - 1 x Clear CMOS Switch with LED
- 1 x Power Switch with LED
- 1 x Reset Switch with LED
BIOS Feature - 8MbAMI BIOS
-AMI Legal BIOS
- Supports “Plug and Play”
-ACPI 1.1 Compliance Wake Up Events
- Supports jumperfree
- SMBIOS 2.3.1 Support
- CPU, VCCM,NB, SB Voltage Multi-adjustment
Support CD - Drivers, Utilities, AntiVirus Software (Trial Version), AMD
OverDriveTM Utility, AMDLive! Explorer,AMD Fusion,ASRock
Software Suite (CyberLink DVD Suite - OEM and Trial;
Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi MB - Trial)
Unique Feature - ASRock OC Tuner (see CAUTION 9)
- Intelligent Energy Saver (see CAUTION 10)
- Instant Boot
- ASRock Instant Flash (see CAUTION 11)
- ASRock OC DNA (see CAUTION 12)
- Hybrid Booster:
- CPU Frequency Stepless Control (see CAUTION 13)
- ASRock U-COP (see CAUTION 14)
- Boot Failure Guard (B.F.G.)
- Turbo 25 / Turbo 30GPU Overclocking
Hardware - CPU Temperature Sensing
Monitor - Chassis Temperature Sensing
- CPU/Chassis/Power Fan Tachometer
- CPU Quiet Fan
- CPU/Chassis Fan Multi-Speed Control
- Voltage Monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3.3V, Vcore
OS - Microsoft® Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit
/ XP / XP Media Center / XP 64-bit compliant
Certifications - FCC, CE, WHQL
- ErP/EuP Ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required)
(see CAUTION 15)
* For detailed product information, please visit our website: http://www.asrock.com

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WARNING
Please realize that there is a certain risk involved with overclocking, including adjusting
the setting in the BIOS, applying Untied Overclocking Technology, or using the third-
party overclocking tools. Overclocking may affect your system stability, or even
cause damage to the components and devices of your system. It should be done at
your own risk and expense. We are not responsible for possible damage caused by
overclocking.
CAUTION!
1. ASRock UCC (Unlock CPU Core) feature simplifies AMD CPU activation. As
long as a simple switch of the BIOS option “ASRock UCC”, you can unlock the
extra CPU core to enjoy an instant performance boost. When UCC feature is
enabled, the dual-core or triple-core CPU will boost to the quad-core CPU, and
some CPU, including quad-core CPU, can also increase L3 cache size up to
6MB, which means you can enjoy the upgrade CPU performance with a better
price. Please be noted that UCC feature is supported with AM3 CPU only, and
in addition, not every AM3 CPU can support this function because some
CPU’s hidden core may be malfunctioned.
2. This motherboard supports Untied Overclocking Technology. Please read “Un-
tied Overclocking Technology” on page 38 for details.
3. This motherboard supportsDual Channel Memory Technology. Before you
implement Dual Channel Memory Technology, make sure to read the
installation guide of memory modules on page 13 for proper installation.
4. Whether 1600MHz memory speed is supported depends on the AM3 CPU
you adopt. If you want to adopt DDR3 1600 memory module on this
motherboard, please refer to the memory support list on our website for
the compatible memory modules.
ASRock website http://www.asrock.com
5. Due to the operating system limitation, the actual memory size may be
less than 4GB for the reservation for system usage under Windows®7 /
VistaTM / XP. For Windows®OS with 64-bit CPU, there is no such limitation.
6. The maximum shared memory size is defined by the chipset vendor and
is subject to change. Please checkAMD website for the latest information.
7. For microphone input, this motherboard supports both stereo and mono modes.
For audio output, this motherboard supports 2-channel, 4-channel, 6-channel,
and 8-channel modes. Please check the table on page 3 for proper connection.
8. Power Management for USB 2.0 works fine under Microsoft®Windows® 7
64-bit / 7 / VistaTM 64-bit / VistaTM / XP 64-bit / XP SP1 or SP2.
9. It is a user-friendly ASRock overclocking tool which allows you to surveil
your system by hardware monitor function and overclock your hardware
devices to get the best system performance under Windows® environment.
Please visit our website for the operation procedures of ASRock OC
Tuner. ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com

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10. Featuring an advanced proprietary hardware and software design,
Intelligent Energy Saver is a revolutionary technology that delivers
unparalleled power savings. The voltage regulator can reduce the
number of output phases to improve efficiency when the CPU cores are
idle. In other words, it is able to provide exceptional power saving and
improve power efficiency without sacrificing computing performance. To
use Intelligent Energy Saver function, please enable Cool ‘n’ Quiet option
in the BIOS setup in advance. Please visit our website for the operation
procedures of Intelligent Energy Saver.
ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com
11. ASRock Instant Flash is a BIOS flash utility embedded in Flash ROM.
This convenient BIOS update tool allows you to update system BIOS
without entering operating systems first like MS-DOS or Windows®. With
this utility, you can press <F6> key during the POST or press <F2> key to
BIOS setup menu to access ASRock Instant Flash. Just launch this tool
and save the new BIOS file to your USB flash drive, floppy disk or hard
drive, then you can update your BIOS only in a few clicks without prepar-
ing an additional floppy diskette or other complicated flash utility. Please
be noted that the USB flash drive or hard drive must use FAT32/16/12 file
system.
12. The software name itself – OC DNA literally tells you what it is capable of.
OC DNA, an exclusive utility developed by ASRock, provides a conve-
nient way for the user to record the OC settings and share with others. It
helps you to save your overclocking record under the operating system
and simplifies the complicated recording process of overclocking settings.
With OC DNA, you can save your OC settings as a profile and share with
your friends! Your friends then can load the OC profile to their own system
to get the same OC settings as yours! Please be noticed that the OC
profile can only be shared and worked on the same motherboard.
13. Although this motherboard offers stepless control, it is not recommended
to perform over-clocking. Frequencies other than the recommended CPU
bus frequencies may cause the instability of the system or damage the
CPU.
14. While CPU overheat is detected, the system will automatically shutdown.
Before you resume the system, please check if the CPU fan on the
motherboard functions properly and unplug the power cord, then plug it
back again. To improve heat dissipation, remember to spray thermal
grease between the CPU and the heatsink when you install the PC system.
15. EuP, stands for Energy Using Product, was a provision regulated by
European Union to define the power consumption for the completed system.
According to EuP, the total AC power of the completed system shall be
under 1.00W in off mode condition. To meet EuP standard, an EuP ready
motherboard and an EuP ready power supply are required. According to
Intel’s suggestion, the EuP ready power supply must meet the standard of
5v standby power efficiency is higher than 50% under 100 mA current
consumption. For EuP ready power supply selection, we recommend you
checking with the power supply manufacturer for more details.

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2.2.
2.2.
2. InstallationInstallation
InstallationInstallation
Installation
This is an ATX form factor (12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm) motherboard.
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to en-
sure that the motherboard fits into it.
Pre-installation PrecautionsPre-installation Precautions
Pre-installation PrecautionsPre-installation Precautions
Pre-installation Precautions
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard
components or change any motherboard settings.
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the
power is switched off or the power cord is detached from the
power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the
motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.
1. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.
2. To avoid damaging the motherboard components due to static
electricity, NEVER place your motherboard directly on the carpet or
the like. Also remember to use a grounded wrist strap or touch a
safety grounded object before you handle components.
3. Hold components by the edges and do not touch the ICs.
4. Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded anti-
static pad or in the bag that comes with the component.
5. When placing screws into the screw holes to secure the motherboard
to the chassis, please do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may
damage the motherboard.
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2.12.1
2.12.1
2.1 CPU InstallationCPU Installation
CPU InstallationCPU Installation
CPU Installation
Step 1. Unlock the socket by lifting the lever up to a 90oangle.
Step 2. Position the CPU directly above the socket such that the CPU corner with
the golden triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle.
Step 3. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.
The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU
into the socket to avoid bending of the pins.
Step 4. When the CPU is in place, press it firmly on the socket while you push
down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab
to indicate that it is locked.
2.22.2
2.22.2
2.2 Installation of CPU Fan and HeatsinkInstallation of CPU Fan and Heatsink
Installation of CPU Fan and HeatsinkInstallation of CPU Fan and Heatsink
Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink
After you install the CPU into this motherboard, it is necessary to install a
larger heatsink and cooling fan to dissipate heat. You also need to spray
thermal grease between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat
dissipation. Make sure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fas-
tened and in good contact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to
the CPU FAN connector (CPU_FAN1, see Page 2, No. 6). For proper
installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of the CPU fan
and the heatsink.
STEP 1:
Lift Up The Socket Lever
STEP 2 / STEP 3:
Match The CPU Golden Triangle
To The Socket Corner Small
Triangle
STEP 4:
Push Down And Lock
The Socket Lever
Lever 90° Up
CPU Golden Triangle
Socker Corner Small Triangle

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2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)
2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)
2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)
This motherboard provides four 240-pin DDR3 (Double Data Rate 3)DIMM slots,
and supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. For dual channel configuration,
you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size and chip-
type)DDR3 DIMM pair in the slots of the same color. In other words, you have to
install identical DDR3DIMM pair in Dual Channel A (DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1;
Blue slots; see p.2 No.7) or identical DDR3 DIMM pair in Dual Channel B
(DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2; White slots; see p.2 No.8), so that Dual Channel
Memory Technology can be activated. This motherboard also allows you to
install fourDDR3 DIMMs for dual channel configuration, and please install iden-
tical DDR3 DIMMs in all four slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel Memory
Configuration Table below.
Dual Channel Memory Configurations
DDR3_A1 DDR3_B1 DDR3_A2 DDR3_B2
(Blue Slot) (Blue Slot) (White Slot) (White Slot)
(1) Populated Populated - -
(2) - - Populated Populated
(3)* Populated Populated Populated Populated
* For the configuration (3), please install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four
slots.
1. If you want to install two memory modules, for optimal compatibility
and reliability, it is recommended to install them in the slots of the
same color. In other words, install them either in the set of blue slots
(DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1), or in the set of white slots (DDR3_A2
and DDR3_B2).
2. If only one memory module or three memory modules are installed
in the DDR3 DIMM slots on this motherboard, it is unable to activate
the Dual Channel Memory Technology.
3. If a pair of memory modules is NOT installed in the same Dual
Channel, for example, installing a pair of memory modules in
DDR3_A1 and DDR3_A2, it is unable to activate the Dual Channel
Memory Technology .
4. It is not allowed to install a DDR or DDR2 memory module into
DDR3 slot; otherwise, this motherboard andDIMM may be damaged.
5. If you adopt DDR3 1600 memory modules on this motherboard, it is
recommended to install them on DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2 slots.

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Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMM
Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMM
Installing a DIMM
Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or
removing DIMMs or the system components.
Step 1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.
Step 2. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on theDIMM matches the break
on the slot.
The DIMM only fits in one correct orientation. It will cause permanent
damage to the motherboard and the DIMM if you force the DIMM into the
slot at incorrect orientation.
Step 3. Firmly insert theDIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends fully
snap back in place and theDIMM is properly seated.

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2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)
2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)
2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)
There are 3 PCI slots and 4 PCI Express slots on this motherboard.
PCI Slots: PCI slots are used to install expansion cards that have the 32-bit PCI
interface.
PCIE Slots:PCIE1 (PCIE x1 slot; White) is used for PCI Express cards with x1 lane
width cards, such as Gigabit LAN card and SATA2 card.
PCIE2 / PCIE3 (PCIE x16 slot; Blue) is used for PCI Express x16 lane
width graphics cards, or used to install PCI Express graphics cards to
support CrossFireXTM function.
PCIE4 (PCIE x16 slot; White) is used for PCI Express x1 lane width
cards, such as Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card, etc, or used to install
PCI Express graphics cards to support 3-Way CrossFireXTM function.
1. In single VGA card mode, it is recommended to install a PCI Express
x16 graphics card on PCIE2 slot.
2. In CrossFireXTM mode, please install PCI Express x16 graphics cards
on PCIE2 and PCIE3 slots. Therefore, both these two slots will work at
x8 bandwidth.
3. In 3-Way CrossFireXTM mode, please install PCI Express x16 graphics
cards on PCIE2, PCIE3 and PCIE4 slots. Therefore, PCIE2 and PCIE3
slots will work at x8 bandwidth while PCIE4 slot will work at x4 bandwidth.
4. Please connect a chassis fan to motherboard chassis fan connector
(CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2 or CHA_FAN3) when using multiple
graphics cards for better thermal environment.
Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card
Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card
Installing an expansion card
Step 1. Before installing the expansion card, please make sure that the power
supply is switched off or the power cord is unplugged. Please read the
documentation of the expansion card and make necessary hardware
settings for the card before you start the installation.
Step 2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in
a chassis).
Step 3. Remove the bracket facing the slot that you intend to use. Keep the
screws for later use.
Step 4. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is
completely seated on the slot.
Step 5. Fasten the card to the chassis with screws.
Step 6. Replace the system cover.

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2. If you have installed onboard VGA driver from our support CD to your system
already, you can freely enjoy the benefits of dual monitor function after your
system boots. If you haven’t installed onboard VGA driver yet, please install
onboard VGA driver from our support CD to your system and restart your
computer. Then you can start to use dual monitor function on this motherboard.
1. DVI-Dand HDMI ports cannot function at the same time. When one of
them is enabled, the other one will be disabled.
2. When you playback HDCP-protected video from Blu-ray (BD) or
HD-DVDdisc, the content will be displayed only in one of the two
monitors instead of both monitors.
2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features
2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features
2.5 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features
Dual Monitor Feature
This motherboard supports dual monitor feature. With the internal VGA output
support (DVI-D, D-Sub and HDMI), you can easily enjoy the benefits of dual monitor
feature without installing any add-on VGA card to this motherboard. This
motherboard also provides independent display controllers for DVI-D, D-Sub and
HDMI to support dual VGA output so thatDVI-D, D-sub and HDMI can drive same or
different display contents.
To enable dual monitor feature, please follow the below steps:
1. ConnectDVI-Dmonitor cable to VGA/DVI-D port on the I/O panel, connect D-Sub
monitor cable to VGA/D-Sub port on the I/O panel, or connect HDMI monitor
cable to HDMI port on the I/O panel.
VGA/DVI-D port HDMI port
VGA/D-Sub port

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Surround Display Feature
This motherboard supports surround display upgrade. With the internal VGA
output support (DVI-D, D-Sub and HDMI) and external add-on PCI Express VGA
cards, you can easily enjoy the benefits of surround display feature.
Please refer to the following steps to set up a surround display environment:
1. Install theATITM PCI Express VGA cards on PCIE2, PCIE3 and PCIE4 slots. Please
refer to page 15 for proper expansion card installation procedures for details.
2. ConnectDVI-D monitor cable to VGA/DVI-D port on the I/O panel, connect D-Sub
monitor cable to VGA/D-Sub port on the I/O panel, or connect HDMI monitor
cable to HDMI port on the I/O panel. Then connect other monitor cables to the
corresponding connectors of the add-on PCI Express VGA cards on PCIE2,
PCIE3 and PCIE4 slots.
3. Boot your system. Press <F2> to enter BIOS setup. Enter “UMAFrame Buffer
Size” option to adjust the memory capability to [32MB], [64MB], [128MB] [256MB]
or [512MB] to enable the function of VGA/D-sub. Please make sure that the
value you select is less than the total capability of the system memory. If you do
not adjust the BIOS setup, the default value of “Share Memory”, [Auto], will
disable VGA/D-Sub function when the add-on VGA card is inserted to this
motherboard.
4. Install the onboard VGA driver and the add-on PCI Express VGA card driver to
your system. If you have installed the drivers already, there is no need to install
them again.
5. Set up a multi-monitor display.
For Windows®XP / XP 64-bit OS:
Right click the desktop, choose “Properties”, and select the “Settings” tab
so that you can adjust the parameters of the multi-monitor according to the
steps below.
A. Click the “Identify” button to display a large number on each monitor.
B. Right-click the display icon in the Display Properties dialog that you wish
to be your primary monitor, and then select “Primary”. When you use
multiple monitors with your card, one monitor will always be Primary,
and all additional monitors will be designated as Secondary.
C. Select the display icon identified by the number 2.
D. Click “Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor”.
E. Right-click the display icon and select “Attached”, if necessary.
F. Set the “Screen Resolution” and “Color Quality” as appropriate for the
second monitor. Click “Apply” or “OK” to apply these new values.
G. Repeat steps C through E for the diaplay icon identified by the number
one, two, three, four, five, six, seven and eight.

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HDCP Function
HDCP function is supported on this motherboard. To use HDCP
function with this motherboard, you need to adopt the monitor that
supports HDCP function as well. Therefore, you can enjoy the
superior display quality with high-definition HDCP encryption
contents. Please refer to below instruction for more details about
HDCP function.
What is HDCP?
HDCP stands for High-BandwidthDigital Content Protection, a
specification developed by Intel®for protecting digital entertainment
content that uses the DVI interface. HDCP is a copy protection
scheme to eliminate the possibility of intercepting digital data
midstream between the video source, or transmitter - such as a
computer, DVD player or set-top box - and the digital display, or
receiver - such as a monitor, television or projector. In other words,
HDCP specification is designed to protect the integrity of content as it
is being transmitted.
Products compatible with the HDCP scheme such as DVD players,
satellite and cable HDTV set-top-boxes, as well as few entertain-
ment PCs requires a secure connection to a compliant display. Due
to the increase in manufacturers employing HDCP in their equipment,
it is highly recommended that the HDTV or LCDmonitor you purchase
is compatible.
For Windows®7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS:
Right click the desktop, choose “Personalize”, and select the “Display
Settings” tab so that you can adjust the parameters of the multi-monitor
according to the steps below.
A. Click the number ”2” icon.
B. Click the items “This is my main monitor” and “Extend the desktop onto
this monitor”.
C. Click “OK” to save your change.
D. Repeat steps A through C for the display icon identified by the number
three, four, five, six, seven and eight.
6. Use Surround Display. Click and drag the display icons to positions representing
the physical setup of your monitors that you would like to use. The placement
of display icons determines how you move items from one monitor to another.

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1. If a customer incorrectly configures their system they will not see the
performance benefits of CrossFireXTM. All three CrossFireXTM components, a
CrossFireXTM Ready graphics card, a CrossFireXTM Ready motherboard and a
CrossFireXTM Edition co-processor graphics card, must be installed correctly to
benefit from the CrossFireXTM multi-GPU platform.
2. If you pair a 12-pipe CrossFireXTM Edition card with a 16-pipe card, both cards
will operate as 12-pipe cards while in CrossFireXTM mode.
2.62.6
2.62.6
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and Quad
CrossFireXCrossFireX
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TM Operation GuideOperation Guide
Operation GuideOperation Guide
Operation Guide
This motherboard supports CrossFireXTM, 3-way CrossFireXTM and Quad
CrossFireXTM feature. CrossFireXTM technology offers the most advantageous means
available of combining multiple high performanceGraphics Processing Units (GPU) in
a single PC. Combining a range of different operating modes with intelligent software
design and an innovative interconnect mechanism, CrossFireXTM enables the highest
possible level of performance and image quality in any 3D application. Currently
CrossFireXTM feature is supported with Windows®XP with Service Pack 2 / VistaTM
/ 7 OS. 3-way CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM feature are supported with
Windows®VistaTM / 7 OS only. Please check AMD website for ATITM CrossFireXTM
driver updates.
2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup
2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup
2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup
2.6.1.1 Installing T2.6.1.1 Installing T
2.6.1.1 Installing T2.6.1.1 Installing T
2.6.1.1 Installing Two CrossFwo CrossF
wo CrossFwo CrossF
wo CrossFireXireX
ireXireX
ireXTMTM
TMTM
TM-R-R
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-Ready Graphicseady Graphics
eady Graphicseady Graphics
eady Graphics
CardsCards
CardsCards
Cards
Different CrossFireXTM cards may require different methods to enable CrossFireXTM
feature. In below procedures, we use Radeon HD 3870 as the example graphics card.
For other CrossFireXTM cards thatATITM has released or will release in the future, please
refer to ATITM graphics card manuals for detailed installation guide.
Step 1. Insert one Radeon graphics card into PCIE2 slot and the other Radeon
graphics card to PCIE3 slot. Make sure that the cards are properly seated
on the slots.

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CrossFire Bridge
Step 3. Connect theDVI monitor cable to theDVI connector on the Radeon graphics
card on PCIE2 slot. (You may use the DVI to D-Sub adapter to convert the
DVI connector to D-Sub interface, and then connect the D-Sub monitor
cable to the DVI to D-Sub adapter.)
Step 2. Connect two Radeon graphics cards by installing CrossFire Bridge on
CrossFire Bridge Interconnects on the top of Radeon graphics cards.
(CrossFire Bridge is provided with the graphics card you purchase, not
bundled with this motherboard. Please refer to your graphics card vendor
for details.)
or