EVGA EVGA X79 DARK User manual

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User Guide
EVGA X79 DARK
Motherboard

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Table of Contents
Before You Begin…......................................................................................................................4
Parts NOT in the Kit ....................................................................................................................5
Intentions of the Kit......................................................................................................................5
Motherboard Specifications ..................................................................................................... 6-7
Unpacking and Parts Descriptions..............................................................................................8
Equipment................................................................................................................................... 8-9
Hardware Installation..................................................................................................................10
Safety Instructions .......................................................................................................................10
Intel X79 Chipset Motherboard………...…………………………………………………11-13
Preparing the Motherboard..................................................................................................... 114
Installing the CPU........................................................................................................................14
Installing the Cooling Device.....................................................................................................15
Installing System Memory (DIMMs)........................................................................................16
Installing the Motherboard.........................................................................................................16
Installing the I/O Shield.............................................................................................................17
Securing the Motherboard into a System Case .......................................................................18
Connecting Cables .......................................................................................................................18
24pin ATX Power (PW1)...........................................................................................................19
8pin ATX 12V Power .............................................................................................................. 200
BIOS Select Switch (optional) ...................................................................................................20
Connecting Internal Headers.....................................................................................................20
Front Panel Header .....................................................................................................................20
USB Headers ................................................................................................................................21
Audio .............................................................................................................................................23

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PCI-E x1 Slots..............................................................................................................................24
PCI-E x16/x8 Slots .....................................................................................................................24
Onboard Buttons.........................................................................................................................25
Clear CMOS Button....................................................................................................................25
RESET and POWER Button ....................................................................................................25
Post Port Debug LED and LED Status Indicators ...............................................................26
Installing Drivers and Software .................................................................................................27
Windows 7/Vista/XP Driver Installation ...............................................................................27
POST Codes...........................................................................................................................28-31
EVGA Glossary of Terms ...................................................................................................32-34
Compliance Information ............................................................................................................35

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Before You Begin…
The true next generation motherboards have arrived with the EVGA X79 motherboards!
This product packs in the latest technologies to give you an uncompromised experience:
Uncompromised Performance –Unparalleled memory bandwidth with true quad
channel DDR3 memory support, and Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 gives you
intelligent computing by optimizing performance on the fly! NVIDIA SLI®and PhysX
give you the expansion you need to maximize your graphics performance.
Uncompromised Power –High performance PWM and POSCAP Capacitors deliver
clean, optimal power to your system for maximum overclocking. Also, with built in
EVGA EVBot support*, you can overclock on the fly from the palm of your hand.
Uncompromised Features –This board is loaded with the latest technologies like a
full UEFI BIOS, USB 3.0 Ports, SATA III/6G support, PCI-E 3.0 ports, E-SATA, a
true next generation board layout, and more!
*sold separately

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Parts NOT in the Kit
This kit contains all the hardware necessary to install and connect your new
EVGA X79 Dark Motherboard. However, it does not contain the following
items that must be purchased separately to make the motherboard functional.
Intel Socket 2011 Processor
DDR3 System Memory
CPU Cooling Device
PCI Express Graphics Card
Power Supply
EVGA assumes you have purchased all the necessary parts needed to allow for
proper system functionality. For a full list of supported CPUs on this
motherboard, please visit www.evga.com/support/motherboard
Intentions of the Kit
This kit provides you with the motherboard and all connecting cables necessary
to install the motherboard into a PC case.
When replacing a motherboard in a PC case, you will need to reinstall an
operating system even though the current storage drive may already have one
installed.

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EVGA X79
Motherboard
Motherboard Specifications
Size:
EATX form factor of 12 inches x 10.3 inches
Microprocessor support:
Intel Socket 2011 Processor
Operating systems:
Supports Windows 8 / 7 / Vista / XP
Contains Intel X79 chipset:
System Memory support:
Supports Quad channel DDR3-2400MHz+. Officially supports up to 64GB
of DDR3 memory.
USB 2.0 Ports:
10x from Intel X79 PCH
Supports hot plug
Supports wake-up from S1 and S3 mode
Supports USB 2.0 protocol up to a 480 Mbps transmission rate
USB 3.0 Ports:
6 from Asmedia ASM1042
Backwards compatible USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 support
Supports transfer speeds up to 5Gbps

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SATA Ports:
Intel X79 PCH Controller
4x SATA 2 Ports up to 3G (300 MB/s) data transfer rate
2x SATA 3 Ports up to 6G (600 MB/s) data transfer rate
- Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, AND RAID 10
*If 6G ports are used in the same array as 3G ports, the SATA 3 6G
ports will adjust down to SATA 2 3G speeds.
Marvell 9230
4x SATA 3 Ports up to 6G (600 MB/s) data transfer rate
Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, AND RAID 10
*Arrays cannot be created across Marvell and Intel controllers
**Marvell controller drivers are not integrated into Windows 8 and older
operating systems, and as such you will need to load drivers for this device
during the Windows installation if you intend to boot off of this controller.
Marvell 9172
2x eSATA port on rear I/O panel
Onboard LAN:
Intel 2x 82579/82574
Supports 10/100/1000 Mb/sec Ethernet
Supports teaming
Onboard Audio:
Realtek ALC898 High-Definition audio
Supports 8-channel audio
Supports Jack-Sensing function
Supports Optical Output
PCI-E Support:
PCI-E 2.0 Slots (PCI-E 3.0 Ready**)
Low power consumption and power management features
Power Functions:
Supports ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface)
Supports S0 (normal), S1 (power on suspend), S3 (suspend to RAM), S4
(Suspend to disk - depends on OS), and S5 (soft - off)
Expansion Slots:
PCI-E 16x/8x slots
PCI-E 4x slot
*Please see page 24 for a slot by slot breakdown

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Unpacking and
Parts Descriptions
Equipment
The following accessories are included with the EVGA X79 Dark Motherboard:
The EVGA X79 Dark Motherboard
This PCI-E motherboard contains the Intel X79 chipset and is
SLI®-ready.
Visual Guide
Helps to quickly and visually guide you through the hardware
installation of the motherboard.
I/O Shield
Installs in the system case to block radio frequency
transmissions, protect internal components from dust, foreign
objects, and aids in proper airflow within the chassis.
2-Port SATA Power Cables
Allows a Molex power connector to adapt to a SATA power
connector.
4-Port USB 2.0 Bracket
Provides four additional USB ports to the back panel of the
chassis.

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2-Port USB 3.0 Bracket
Allows addition of 2 USB 3.0 ports by Connecting to the
motherboard header.
SATA 3G/6G Data Cables
Used to support the SATA protocol and each one connects a
single drive to the motherboard.
4-way SLI®Bridge
Bridges four graphics cards together which allows for
4-way SLI®.
3-way SLI®Bridge
Bridges three graphics cards together which allows for
3-way SLI®.
2-way SLI®Bridge
Bridges two graphics cards together which allows for
2-way SLI®.
Optional 1366 Backplate
Allows use of a socket 1366 cooler. This backplate is optional.
I/O Cover
This optional cover attaches to the PCB and covers the I/O
area
Installation CD
Contains drivers and software needed to setup the
motherboard.
User Manual
The user manual you are reading right now!

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Hardware Installation
This section will guide you through the installation of the motherboard. The
topics covered in this section are:
Preparing the motherboard
Installing the CPU
Installing the Cooling Device
Installing the memory
Installing the motherboard
Connecting cables
Safety Instructions
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury, always follow basic
safety precautions.
Remember to remove power from your computer by disconnecting the
AC main source before removing or installing any equipment from/to the
computer chassis.

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Intel X79 Chipset Motherboard
The EVGA X79 Dark Motherboard with the Intel X79 and PCH Chipset is a SLI-ready
motherboard. Figure 1 shows the motherboard and Figure 2 shows the back panel
connectors
FIGURE 1. X79 Dark Motherboard Layout

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1. CPU Socket 2011
13. Debug LED
25. PCI-E Slot 4x
2. Intel X79 Southbridge
14. USB 2.0 Headers
26. Front Panel Audio Connector
3. CPU Fan Header
15. USB 3.0 Headers
27. S/PDIF Out
4. DDR3 Memory DIMM Slots 1-8
16. CMOS Battery
28. EVGauge
5. 24-pin ATX power connector
17. Unused
29. Back Panel Connectors (Figure 2)
6. Fan Headers
18. CMOS Reset Button
30. 8 pin EPS Connector
7. PCI-E Disable Dipswitches
19. Power Button
31. Supplemental PCI-E 6pin Power
8. Intel Sata 6G/3G Ports
20. Reset Button
32. Removable BIOS Chip
9. Intel Sata 3G Ports
21. PC Speaker
33. GPU Link
10. Marvell Sata 6G Ports
22. PCI-E Slot 16x/8x
34. Probe It Header
11. ECP Header
23. PCI-E Slot 8x
35 BIOS Selector Switch
12. Front Panel Connectors
24. PCI-E Slot 8x/4x

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Figure 2. Chassis Rear Panel Connectors
1. Bluetooth
4. CMOS Reset Switch
7. eSata Ports
2. USB 2.0
5. Optical S/DIF Out
8. NIC
3. USB 3.0
6. EVBot Connecter
9. Analog Audio Output Jacks
Analog Audio Port Breakdown
2/2.1
Channel
4.0/4.1 Channel
5.1 (6 Channel)
7.1 (8 Channel)
Blue
Line in
Line In
Line in
*Side channel
Green
Line Out/
Speaker Out
Front Speaker/
Speaker+Sub
Out
Front Speaker/
Speaker+Sub Out
Front Speaker/
Speaker+Sub Out
Pink
Mic In
Mic In
Mic In
Mic In
Black
Rear Speaker
Out
Rear Speaker Out
Rear Speaker Out
Orange
Center/Voice channel
Center/Voice channel
*Only used in 7.1 and is changed via Realtek Software from within Windows.

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Preparing the Motherboard
Installing the CPU
Be very careful when handling the CPU. Hold the
processor only by the edges and do not touch the bottom
of the processor.
Use the following procedure to install the CPU onto the
motherboard:
Unhook the left socket lever by pushing down
and away from the socket.
Unhook the right socket lever by pushing down
and away from the socket.
Gently press the left socket lever and the load
plate will lift from the socket.
Open the load plate and make sure not to
damage any of the pins inside of the socket.
Note: After removing the CPU socket cover, it is recommended to store it in
case you ever need to transport your motherboard. If you ever remove the
CPU, it is highly recommended to reinstall the socket cover.

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Align the notches on the CPU to the notches in
the socket.
Lower the processor straight down into the
socket.
Note: Make sure the CPU is fully seated and level
in the socket.
Lower the load plate so it is resting on the CPU.
Press the right socket lever down to lock into
place.
Carefully lock the lever back into place.
Installing the Cooling Device
There are many different cooling devices that can be used with this
motherboard. Follow the instructions that comes with your cooling assembly.

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Installing System Memory (DIMMs)
Your new motherboard has eight 240-pin slots for DDR3 memory. These slots
support 2GB, 4GB and 8GB DDR3 DIMMs. There must be at least one
memory slot populated to ensure normal
operation.
The Intel X79 chipset supports quad channel
memory; it is required to populate slots 1,3,5,7
first. Board will not boot if slots 2,4,6,8
populated without 1,3,5,7.
Use the following procedure to install DIMMs.
Note that there is only one gap near the center of the DIMM slots. This slot
matches the slot on the DIMM to ensure the component is installed properly.
Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the module clip outward.
Align the memory module to the DIMM slot, and insert the module
vertically into the DIMM slot. The plastic clips at top side of the
DIMM slot automatically lock the DIMM into the connector.
Installing the Motherboard
The sequence of installing the motherboard into a system case depends on the
chassis you are using and if you are replacing an existing motherboard or

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working with an empty system case. Determine if it would be easier to make all
the connections prior to this step or to secure the motherboard and then make
all the connections. It is normally easier to secure the motherboard first.
Use the following procedure to install the I/O shield and secure the
motherboard into the chassis.
Note: Be sure that the CPU fan assembly has enough clearance for the system
case covers to lock into place and for the expansion cards. Also make sure
the CPU Fan assembly is aligned with the vents on the covers. This will
depend on the system case being used.
Installing the I/O Shield/Cover
The motherboard kit comes with an I/O shield that is used to block internal
components from dust and foreign objects, and promotes correct airflow within
the chassis.
Before installing the motherboard, install the I/O shield from the inside of the
chassis. Press the I/O shield into place and make sure it fits securely.
Also included is an I/O cover. This I/O cover adds a unique appearance to the
I/O area of the motherboard and is completely optional. If you wish to use the
cover, please place it over the I/O area, and install the chassis screws. The
chassis screws are intended to hold the I/O cover down.

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Securing the Motherboard into a System Case
Most system cases have a base with mounting holes you thread standoffs onto to
allow the motherboard to be secured to the chassis and help to prevent short
circuits. If there are studs that do not align with a mounting hole on the
motherboard, it is recommended that you remove that standoff to prevent the
possibility of a short circuit.
Carefully place the motherboard onto the stand offs located inside the
chassis.
Align the mounting holes with the stand offs.
Align the connectors to the I/O shield and/or I/O cover.
Ensure that the fan assembly is aligned with the chassis vents according to
the fan assembly instruction.
Secure the motherboard with a recommended minimum of nine (9) screws.
Connecting Cables
This section takes you through all the necessary connections on the
motherboard. This will include:
Power Connections
24pin ATX power (PW1)
8pin ATX 12V power
Internal Headers
Front Panel Header
USB Headers
Audio Header
SATA II
SATA III
USB 3.0/2.0

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24pin ATX Power (PW1)
PW1 is the main power supply connector located along the right edge of the
board. Make sure that the power supply cable and pins are properly aligned with
the connector on the motherboard. Firmly plug the power supply cable into the
connector and make sure it is secure.
The 24pin Power Connector may be standard or right angled depending on
your motherboard model.
Connector
Pin
Signal
Pin
Signal
1
+3.3V
13
+3.3V
2
+3.3V
14
-12V
3
GND
15
GND
4
+5V
16
PS_ON
5
GND
17
GND
6
+5V
18
GND
7
GND
19
GND
8
PWROK
20
RSVD
9
+5V_AUX
21
+5V
10
+12V
22
+5V
11
+12V
23
+5V
12
+3.3V
24
GND
Right Angled 24pin Power Connector
24
13
12
1

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8-pin ATX 12V Power (PW12-1 & PW12-2)
PW12-1 & PW12-2, the 8-pin ATX 12V power connections, are used to
provide power to the CPU. Align the pins to the connector and press firmly
until seated. The secondary is optional for improved overclocking.
BIOS Select Switch
The BIOS Select Switch is located directly on the bottom edge of the
motherboard. This jumper controls which of physical BIOS chips are to be
used when the system is powered on.
Connecting Internal Headers
Front Panel Header
The front panel header on this motherboard is used to
connect the following four cables.
PWRLED
Attach the front panel power LED
cable to these two pins of the connector. The Power
GND
+12V