GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY GA-F2A78M-DASH User manual

GA-F2A78M-DASH
User's Manual
Rev. 3001
12ME-F278MDA-3001R

Motherboard
GA-F2A78M-DASH
Jul. 31, 2014
Jul. 31, 2014
Motherboard
GA-F2A78M-DASH
Copyright
©2014 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 specications 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.
For quick set-up of the product, read the Quick Installation Guide included with the product.
In order to assist in the use of this product, carefully read the User's Manual.
For product-related information, check on our website at: http://www.gigabyte.com
Identifying Your Motherboard Revision
The revision number on your motherboard looks like this: "REV: X.X." For example, "REV: 1.0" means the
revision of the motherboard is 1.0. Check your motherboard revision before updating motherboard BIOS,
drivers, or when looking for technical information.
Example:

- 3 -
Table of Contents
GA-F2A78M-DASH Motherboard Layout ........................................................................4
GA-F2A78M-DASH Motherboard Block Diagram............................................................5
Chapter 1 Hardware Installation .....................................................................................6
1-1 Installation Precautions.................................................................................... 6
1-2 Product Specications...................................................................................... 7
1-3 Installing the APU............................................................................................. 9
1-4 Installing the Memory....................................................................................... 9
1-5 Installing an Expansion Card ......................................................................... 10
1-6 Back Panel Connectors.................................................................................. 10
1-7 Internal Connectors........................................................................................ 12
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup ..................................................................................................17
2-1 Startup Screen ............................................................................................... 18
2-2 M.I.T. .............................................................................................................. 18
2-3 System Information ........................................................................................ 22
2-4 BIOS Features ............................................................................................... 23
2-5 Peripherals..................................................................................................... 26
2-6 Power Management....................................................................................... 28
2-7 Save & Exit..................................................................................................... 30
Chapter 3 Appendix ......................................................................................................31
3-1 Conguring SATA Hard Drive(s)..................................................................... 31
3-2 Drivers Installation.......................................................................................... 33
Regulatory Statements.............................................................................................. 34
Contact Us ................................................................................................................ 36

- 4 -
GA-F2A78M-DASH Motherboard Layout
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.
(Note) Whether this feature is supported depends on the product being received.
Box Contents
5GA-F2A78M-DASH motherboard
5Motherboard driver disk 5Four SATA cables
5User's Manual 5I/O Shield
5Quick Installation Guide
KB_MS_USB
CPU_FANSYS_FAN1
FM2+
ATX
GA-F2A78M-DASH
F_AUDIO
AUDIO
DDR3_1 DDR3_3 DDR3_2 DDR3_4
BAT
ATX_12V
SATA3
R_USB30
USB30_LAN
DP_HDMI
CODEC
M_BIOS
VGA
DVI
PCIEX16
LPT
PCIEX4
PCIEX1
TPM IC (Note)
PCI
F_USB2 F_PANELF_USB30_2
F_USB30_1
F_USB1COMBCOMA
SYS_FAN2
SPDIF_O CLR_CMOS
Realtek®
GbE LAN
VIA®VL805
AMD A78
024 135
iTE®
Super I/O

- 5 -
GA-F2A78M-DASH Motherboard Block Diagram
For detailed product information/limitation(s), refer to "1-2 Product Specications."
Line Out (Front Speaker Out)
MIC (Center/Subwoofer
Speaker Out)
Line In (Rear Speaker Out)
CODEC
S/PDIF Out
AMD APU
UMI
APU CLK+/- (100 MHz)
PCI Express Bus
PCI Express Bus
PCI Bus
LPC
Bus
PCIe CLK
(100 MHz)
PS/2 KB/Mouse
LPT
6 USB 2.0/1.1
4 USB 3.0/2.0
LAN
RJ45
x1
x1
x4
Realtek®
GbE LAN
VIA®VL805
x16 x1
1 PCI Express x16
1 PCI Express x1
1 PCI Express x4
6 SATA 6Gb/s
4 USB 3.0/2.0
AMD A78
DISP CLK+/- (100 MHz)
DDR3 2133/1866/1600/1333 MHz
DVI-D
DisplayPort
D-Sub
HDMI
Switch
iTE®
Super I/O
BIOS
1 PCI
PCI CLK
(33 MHz)
Dual Channel Memory
TPM
COM

- 6 -
Chapter 1 Hardware Installation
1-1 Installation Precautions
The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can become
damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). Prior to installation, carefully read the user's
manual and follow these procedures:
•Prior to installation, make sure the chassis is suitable for the motherboard.
•Prior to installation, do not remove or break motherboard S/N (Serial Number) sticker or
warranty sticker provided by your dealer. These stickers are required for warranty validation.
•Always remove the AC power by unplugging the power cord from the power outlet before
installing or removing the motherboard or other hardware components.
•When connecting hardware components to the internal connectors on the motherboard, make
sure they are connected tightly and securely.
•When handling the motherboard, avoid touching any metal leads or connectors.
•It is best to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling electronic
components such as a motherboard, CPU or memory. If you do not have an ESD wrist strap,
keep your hands dry and rst touch a metal object to eliminate static electricity.
•Prior to installing the motherboard, please have it on top of an antistatic pad or within an
electrostatic shielding container.
•Before unplugging the power supply cable from the motherboard, make sure the power supply
has been turned off.
•Before turning on the power, make sure the power supply voltage has been set according to
the local voltage standard.
•Before using the product, please verify that all cables and power connectors of your hardware
components are connected.
•To prevent damage to the motherboard, do not allow screws to come in contact with the
motherboard circuit or its components.
•Make sure there are no leftover screws or metal components placed on the motherboard or
within the computer casing.
•Do not place the computer system on an uneven surface.
•Do not place the computer system in a high-temperature environment.
•Turning on the computer power during the installation process can lead to damage to system
components as well as physical harm to the user.
•If you are uncertain about any installation steps or have a problem related to the use of the
product, please consult a certied computer technician.

- 7 -
1-2 ProductSpecications
APU FM2+ Socket:
- AMD A series processors
- AMD Athlon™series processors
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
Chipset AMD A78
Memory 4 x DDR3 DIMM sockets supporting up to 64 GB of system memory
* Due to a Windows 32-bit operating system limitation, when more than 4 GB of physical
memory is installed, the actual memory size displayed will be less than the size of
the physical memory installed.
* The maximum 64 GB of system memory can be supported using 16 GB (or above)
memory modules. GIGABYTE will update the memory support list on the ofcial
website when the memory modules are available on the market.
Dual channel memory architecture
Support for DDR3 2133/1866/1600/1333 MHz memory modules
 Support for AMD Memory Prole (AMP)/Extreme Memory Prole (XMP) memory
modules
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest supported memory speeds and memory
modules.)
Onboard
Graphics
Integrated Graphics Processor:
- 1 x D-Sub port, supporting a maximum resolution of 1920x1200
- 1 x DVI-D port, supporting a maximum resolution of 2560x1600
* Support for 2560x1600 resolution requires both a monitor and cable that support
Dual Link DVI.
* The DVI-D port does not support D-Sub connection by adapter.
- 1 x HDMI port, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096x2160
* The resolution of 4096x2160 can be supported when using an FM2+ APU; the
maximum resolution supported is 1920x1200 when using an FM2 APU.
* Support for HDMI 1.4a version.
- 1 x DisplayPort, supporting a maximum resolution of 3840x2160
* The DisplayPort does not support Hot plug. If you want to change to another graphics
port when the computer is on, be sure to turn off the computer rst.
* Support for DisplayPort 1.2 version.
- Maximum shared memory of 2 GB
Audio Realtek®ALC887 codec
High Denition Audio
2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
* To congure 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.
Support for S/PDIF Out
LAN Realtek® GbE LAN chip (10/100/1000 Mbit)
Expansion Slots 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x16 (PCIEX16)
(The PCI Express x16 slot conforms to PCI Express 3.0 standard.)
* To support PCI Express 3.0, you must install an FM2+ APU.
1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x4 (PCIEX4)
1 x PCI Express x1 slot
(The PCIEX4 and PCIEX1 slots conform to PCI Express 2.0 standard.)
1 x PCI slot
Multi-Graphics
Technology Support for AMD Dual Graphics technology

- 8 -
Storage Interface Chipset:
- 6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
- Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and JBOD
USB Chipset:
- 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (available through the internal USB headers)
- 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (2 ports on the back panel, 4 ports available through
the internal USB headers)
VIA®VL805 chip:
- 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports on the back panel
Internal
Connectors
1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
1 x APU fan header
2 x system fan headers
1 x front panel header
1 x front panel audio header
1 x S/PDIF Out header
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 headers
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
1 x parallel port header
2 x serial port header
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
Back Panel
Connectors
1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse port
1 x D-Sub port
1 x DVI-D port
1 x HDMI port
1 x DisplayPort
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
1 x RJ-45 port
3 x audio jacks (Line In, Line Out, Mic In)
I/O Controller iTE®I/O Controller Chip
Hardware
Monitor
System voltage detection
APU/System temperature detection
APU/System fan speed detection
APU overheating warning
APU/System fan fail warning
APU/System fan speed control
* Whether the fan speed control function is supported will depend on the cooler you
install.
BIOS 1 x 64 Mbit ash
Use of licensed AMI UEFI BIOS
PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.7, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0
Unique Features Support for @BIOS
Support for Xpress Install
Support for EasyTune
* Available functions in EasyTune may differ by motherboard model.

- 9 -
1-3 Installing the APU
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the APU:
•Make sure that the motherboard supports the APU.
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest APU support list.)
•Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the
APU to prevent hardware damage.
•Locate the pin one of the APU. The APU cannot be inserted if oriented incorrectly.
•Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the APU.
•Do not turn on the computer if the APU cooler is not installed, otherwise overheating and damage
of the APU may occur.
•Set the APU host frequency in accordance with the APU specications. It is not recommended
that the system bus frequency be set beyond hardware specications since it does not meet the
standard requirements for the peripherals. If you wish to set the frequency beyond the standard
specications, please do so according to your hardware specications including the APU, graphics
card, memory, hard drive, etc.
Installing the APU
Locate the alignment keys on the motherboard APU socket and the notches on the APU.
1-4 Installing the Memory
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the memory:
•Make sure that the motherboard supports the memory. It is recommended that memory of the
same capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used.
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest supported memory speeds and memory modules.)
•Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the
memory to prevent hardware damage.
•Memory modules have a foolproof design. A memory module can be installed in only one direction.
If you are unable to insert the memory, switch the direction.
Unique Features Support for Smart Recovery2
Support for ON/OFF Charge
Bundled
Software Norton® Internet Security (OEM version)
Operating
System Support for Windows 8.1/8/7
Form Factor Micro ATX Form Factor; 24.4cm x 24.4cm
* GIGABYTE reserves the right to make any changes to the product specications and product-related information without
prior notice.
* Please visit the Support & Downloads\Utility page on GIGABYTE's website to check the supported operating system(s)
for the software listed in the "Unique Features" and "Bundled Software" columns.
A Small Triangle
Marking Denotes Pin
One of the Socket
APU
A Small Triangle
Marking Denotes APU
Pin One
FM2+ Socket

- 10 -
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.
1-6 Back Panel Connectors
USB 2.0/1.1 Port
The USB port supports the USB 2.0/1.1 specication. Use this port for USB devices such as a USB
keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB ash drive and etc.
PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port
Use this port to connect a PS/2 mouse or keyboard.
D-Sub Port
The D-Sub port supports a 15-pin D-Sub connector and supports a maximum resolution of 1920x1200
(the actual resolutions supported depend on the monitor being used). Connect a monitor that supports
D-Sub connection to this port.
DVI-D Port (Note 1)
The DVI-D port conforms to the DVI-D specication and supports a maximum resolution of 2560x1600.
Connect a monitor that supports DVI-D connection to this port. Please note that the actual resolutions
supported are dependent on the monitor being used and support for 2560x1600 resolution requires both
a monitor and cable that support Dual Link DVI.
DisplayPort (Note 2)
DisplayPort delivers high quality digital imaging and audio, supporting bi-directional audio transmission.
DisplayPort can support both DPCP and HDCP content protection mechanisms. You can use this port to
connect your DisplayPort-supported monitor. The DisplayPort Technology can support a maximum resolution
of 3840x2160 but the actual resolutions supported depend on the monitor being used.
DualChannelMemoryConguration
This motherboard provides four DDR3 memory sockets and supports Dual Channel Technology. After the
memory is installed, the BIOS will automatically detect the specications and capacity of the memory. Enabling
Dual Channel memory mode will double the original memory bandwidth.
The four DDR3 memory sockets are divided into two channels and each channel has two memory sockets as
following:
Channel 0: DDR3_2, DDR3_4
Channel 1: DDR3_1, DDR3_3
Due to APU limitations, read the following guidelines before installing the memory in Dual Channel mode.
1. Dual Channel mode cannot be enabled if only one DDR3 memory module is installed.
2. 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.
(Note 1) The DVI-D port does not support D-Sub connection by adapter.
(Note 2) The DisplayPort does not support Hot plug. If you want to change to another graphics port when the
computer is on, be sure to turn off the computer rst.

- 11 -
•When removing the cable connected to a back panel connector, rst 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.
HDMI Port
The HDMI port is HDCP compliant and supports Dolby True HD and DTS HD
Master Audio formats. It also supports up to 192KHz/24bit 8-channel LPCM
audio output. You can use this port to connect your HDMI-supported monitor. The maximum supported
resolution is 4096x2160, but the actual resolutions supported are dependent on the monitor being used.
After installing the Display or HDMI device, make sure to set it as the default sound playback device.
USB 3.0/2.0 Port
The USB 3.0 port supports the USB 3.0 specication and is compatible to the USB 2.0/1.1 specication.
Use this port for USB devices such as a USB keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB ash 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.
A.Triple-DisplayCongurationsfortheOnboardGraphics:
Triple-display congurations are supported after you install motherboard drivers in OS. Only dual-display
congurations are supported during the BIOS Setup or POST process (Note).
B. Playback of Blu-ray™Discs:
In order to get better playback quality, when playing the Blu-ray™discs, refer to the recommended system
requirements (or better) below.
•AMD A series processors
•Memory: Two 1 GB DDR3 1333 MHz memory modules with dual channel mode enabled
•BIOS Setup: At least 512 MB of UMA Frame Buffer Size (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Peripherals\
GFX Conguration," for more information)
•Playback software: CyberLink PowerDVD 10.0 or later (Note: Please ensure Hardware Acceleration
is enabled. Whether Hardware Acceleration can be enabled for 3D Blu-ray™discs is dependent on the
APU being used.)
•HDCP compliant monitor(s)
Triple-display
congurations
Combination Supported or Not
D-Sub + DVI-D + HDMI Yes
D-Sub + DVI-D + DP No (Note)
DVI-D + HDMI + DP Yes
Line In Jack (Blue)
The line in jack. Use this audio jack for line in devices such as an optical drive, walkman, etc.
(Note) When the D-Sub port and DisplayPort are connected at the same time, images will output from the
DisplayPort only.
Activity LED
Connection/
Speed LED
LAN Port
Activity LED:Connection/Speed LED:
State Description
Orange 1 Gbps data rate
Green 100 Mbps data rate
Off 10 Mbps data rate
State Description
Blinking Data transmission or receiving is occurring
Off No data transmission or receiving is occurring

- 12 -
1-7 Internal Connectors
Read the following guidelines before connecting external devices:
•First make sure your devices are compliant with the connectors you wish to connect.
•Before installing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the power
cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the devices.
•After installing the device and before turning on the computer, make sure the device cable has
been securely attached to the connector on the motherboard.
1) ATX_12V
2) ATX
3) CPU_FAN
4) SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2
5) SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5
6) BAT
7) CLR_CMOS
8) F_PANEL
9) F_AUDIO
10) SPDIF_O
11) F_USB30_1/F_USB30_2
12) F_USB1/F_USB2
13) COMA/COMB
14) LPT
1213
6
14
4
10
1 3
2
4
5
11
89 11 7
To congure 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.
LineOutJack(Green)
The line out jack. Use this audio jack for a headphone or 2-channel speaker. This jack can be used to
connect front speakers in a 4/5.1/7.1-channel audio conguration.
Mic In Jack (Pink)
The Mic in jack. Microphones must be connected to this jack.

- 13 -
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 components
on the motherboard. Before connecting the power connector, rst make sure the power supply is turned
off and all devices are properly installed. The power connector possesses a foolproof design. Connect the
power supply cable to the power connector in the correct orientation.
The 12V power connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If the 12V power connector is not connected,
the computer will not start.
3/4) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2 (Fan Headers)
All fan headers on this motherboard are 4-pin. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design.
When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is
the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design. For
optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed inside the chassis.
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.
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
131
2412
ATX
ATX:
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
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
95VSB (stand by +5V) 21 +5V
10 +12V 22 +5V
11 +12V (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX)
23 +5V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
12 3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX)
24 GND (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
CPU_FAN:
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 +12V
3 Sense
4 Speed Control
SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2:
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 Speed Control
3 Sense
4 Reserve
•Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your APU and system from overheating. Overheating
may result in damage to the APU or the system may hang.
•These fan headers are not conguration jumper blocks. Do not place a jumper cap on the headers.
CPU_FAN SYS_FAN1 SYS_FAN2
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
1 1
1
ATX_12V:
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 GND
3 +12V
4 +12V
ATX_12V
2
1
4
3

- 14 -
5) SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors)
The SATA connectors conform to SATA 6Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and SATA1.5Gb/s
standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The AMD Chipset supports RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 10, and JBOD. Refer to Chapter 3, "Conguring SATA Hard Drive(s)," for instructions on conguring a
RAID array.
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 TXP
3 TXN
4 GND
5 RXN
6 RXP
7 GND
6) BAT (Battery)
The battery provides power to keep the values (such as BIOS congurations, date, and time information)
in the CMOS when the computer is turned off. Replace the battery when the battery voltage drops to a low
level, or the CMOS values may not be accurate or may be lost.
You may clear the CMOS values by removing the battery:
1. Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Gently remove the battery from the battery holder and wait for one minute. (Or use a metal
object like a screwdriver to touch the positive and negative terminals of the battery holder,
making them short for 5 seconds.)
3. Replace the battery.
4. Plug in the power cord and restart your computer.
•Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord before replacing the battery.
•Replace the battery with an equivalent one. Danger of explosion if the battery is replaced with an incorrect model.
•Contact the place of purchase or local dealer if you are not able to replace the battery by yourself or uncertain
about the battery model.
•When installing the battery, note the orientation of the positive side (+) and the negative side (-) of the battery
(the positive side should face up).
•Used batteries must be handled in accordance with local environmental regulations.
7
7
7
1
1
1
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
SATA3 4 5
2 3
0 1
•A RAID 0 or RAID 1 conguration requires at least two hard drives. If more than two hard drives are to be
used, the total number of hard drives must be an even number.
•A RAID 10 conguration requires four hard drives.
7) CLR_CMOS(ClearCMOSJumper)
Use this jumper to clear the BIOS conguration and reset the CMOS values to factory defaults. To clear
the CMOS values, use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the two pins for a few seconds.
•Always turn off your computer before clearing the CMOS values.
•After system restart, go to BIOS Setup to load factory defaults (select Load Optimized Defaults) or manually
congure the BIOS settings (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," for BIOS congurations).
Open: Normal
Short: Clear CMOS Values

- 15 -
8) F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)
Connect the power switch, reset switch, speaker, 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.
The front panel design may differ by chassis. A front panel module mainly consists of power switch, reset switch,
power LED, hard drive activity LED, speaker and etc. When connecting your chassis front panel module to this
header, make sure the wire assignments and the pin assignments are matched correctly.
Power LED
1
2
19
20
CI-
CI+
PLED- PW- SPEAK+ SPEAK-
PLED+ PW+
Power LED
HD-
RES+
HD+
RES-
Hard Drive
Activity LED
Reset
Switch Chassis
Intrusion Header
Power Switch Speaker
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 

_
B
BS_
B
SB_
B
_S

S_
_
B
_U
_
B


 
S  
 
123
 
123
 
123
 
123
1
1
1
1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3  
 S3 BSSS U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
PWR_LED-
PWR_LED+
PWR_LED-
•PW (Power Switch):
Connects to the power switch on the chassis front panel. You may
congure the way to turn off your system using the power switch
(refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Power Management," for more
information).
•SPEAK (Speaker):
Connects to the speaker on the chassis front panel. The system reports
system startup status by issuing a beep code. One single short beep
will be heard if no problem is detected at system startup.
•PLED/PWR_LED (Power LED):
System Status LED
S0 On
S3/S4/S5 Off
Connects to the power status indicator
on the chassis front panel. The LED is on
when the system is operating. The LED is
off when the system is in S3/S4 sleep state
or powered off (S5).
•HD (Hard Drive Activity LED):
Connects to the hard drive activity LED on the chassis front panel. The LED is on when the hard drive is
reading or writing data.
•RES (Reset Switch):
Connects to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset switch to restart the computer if the
computer freezes and fails to perform a normal restart.
•CI (Chassis Intrusion Header):
Connects to the chassis intrusion switch/sensor on the chassis that can detect if the chassis cover has been
removed. This function requires a chassis with a chassis intrusion switch/sensor.
9) F_AUDIO(FrontPanelAudioHeader)
The front panel audio header supports Intel High Denition 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
connector 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.
1
2
9
10
For HD Front Panel Audio: ForAC'97 Front PanelAudio:
Pin No. Denition
1 MIC2_L
2 GND
3 MIC2_R
4 -ACZ_DET
5 LINE2_R
6 Sense
7 FAUDIO_JD
8 No Pin
9 LINE2_L
10 Sense
Pin No. Denition
1 MIC
2 GND
3 MIC Power
4 NC
5Line Out (R)
6 NC
7 NC
8 No Pin
9Line Out (L)
10 NC
•The front panel audio header supports HD audio by default.
•Audio signals will be present on both of the front and back panel audio connections simultaneously.
•Some chassis provide a front panel audio module that has separated connectors on each wire instead of a
single plug. For information about connecting the front panel audio module that has different wire assignments,
please contact the chassis manufacturer.

- 16 -
10) SPDIF_O(S/PDIFOutHeader)
This header supports digital S/PDIF Out and connects a S/PDIF digital audio cable (provided by expansion
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 expansion card.
12) F_USB1/F_USB2 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers)
The headers conform to USB 2.0/1.1 specication. Each USB header can provide two USB ports via an
optional USB bracket. For purchasing the optional USB bracket, please contact the local dealer.
10
9
2
1
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1Power (5V) 6 USB DY+
2Power (5V) 7 GND
3 USB DX- 8 GND
4 USB DY- 9 No Pin
5 USB DX+ 10 NC
•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.
Pin No. Denition
1 SPDIFO
2 GND
1
11) F_USB30_1/F_USB30_2 (USB 3.0/2.0 Headers)
The headers conform to USB 3.0/2.0 specication and each header can provide two USB ports. For
purchasing the optional 3.5" front panel that provides two USB 3.0/2.0 ports, please contact the local dealer.
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 

_
B
BS_
B
SB_
B
_S

S_
_
B
_U
_
B


 
S  
 
123
 
123
 
123
 
123
1
1
1
1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3  
 S3 BSSS U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
11
1 10
20
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1VBUS 8D1- 15 SSTX2-
2SSRX1- 9D1+ 16 GND
3SSRX1+ 10 NC 17 SSRX2+
4GND 11 D2+ 18 SSRX2-
5SSTX1- 12 D2- 19 VBUS
6SSTX1+ 13 GND 20 No Pin
7GND 14 SSTX2+
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 

_
B
BS_
B
SB_
B
_S

S_
_
B
_U
_
B


 
S  
 
123
 
123
 
123
 
123
1
1
1
1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3  
 S3 BSSS U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
10
20 1
11
13) COMA/COMB(SerialPortHeaders)
The COM header can provide one serial port via an optional COM port cable. For purchasing the optional
COM port cable, please contact the local dealer.
10
9
2
1
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1 NDCD- 6 NDSR-
2 NSIN 7 NRTS-
3 NSOUT 8 NCTS-
4 NDTR- 9 NRI-
5 GND 10 No Pin

- 17 -
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
14) LPT (Parallel Port Header)
The LPT header can provide one parallel port via an optional LPT port cable. For purchasing the optional
LPT port cable, please contact the local dealer.
2
26
1
25
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1STB- 10 GND 19 ACK-
2AFD- 11 PD4 20 GND
3PD0 12 GND 21 BUSY
4ERR- 13 PD5 22 GND
5PD1 14 GND 23 PE
6INIT- 15 PD6 24 No Pin
7PD2 16 GND 25 SLCT
8SLIN- 17 PD7 26 GND
9PD3 18 GND
Chapter2 BIOSSetup
•Because BIOS ashing is potentially risky, if you do not encounter problems using the current version of BIOS,
it is recommended that you not ash the BIOS. To ash the BIOS, do it with caution. Inadequate BIOS ashing
may result in system malfunction.
•It is recommended that you not alter the default settings (unless you need to) to prevent system instability or other
unexpected results. Inadequately altering the settings may result in system's failure to boot. If this occurs, try to
clear the CMOS values and reset the board to default values. (Refer to the "Load Optimized Defaults" section in
this chapter or introductions of the battery/clear CMOS jumper in Chapter 1 for how to clear the CMOS values.)
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 conguration 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 conguration values in the CMOS.
To access the BIOS Setup program, press the <Delete> key during the POST when the power is turned on.

- 18 -
2-1 Startup Screen
The following startup Logo screen will appear when the computer boots.
(Sample BIOS Version: F1b)
Function Keys
•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.
On the main menu of the BIOS Setup program, press arrow keys to move among the items and press <Enter>
to accept or enter a sub-menu. Or you can use your mouse to select the item you want.
2-2 M.I.T.
This section provides information on the BIOS version, CPU base clock, CPU frequency, memory frequency,
total memory size, CPU temperature, Vcore, and memory voltage.
Whether the system will work stably with the overclock/overvoltage settings you made is dependent on your overall
system congurations. 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.)

- 19 -
`M.I.T. Current Status
This screen provides information on CPU/memory frequencies/parameters.
`Advanced Frequency Settings
&CPU Clock Control
Allows you to manually set the CPU base clock in 1 MHz increments. (Default: Auto)
Important: It is highly recommended that the CPU frequency be set in accordance with the CPU
specications.
&Processor Graphics Clock
Allows you to set the onboard graphics clock. The adjustable range is from 300 MHz to 2000 MHz.
&CPU NorthBridge Frequency
Allows you to manually set the CPU North Bridge frequency. The adjustable range is from 800 MHz to
6000 MHz. (Default: Auto)
&CPU Clock Ratio
Allows you to alter the clock ratio for the installed CPU. The adjustable range is dependent on the CPU
being installed. (Default: Auto)
&CPU Frequency
Displays the current operating CPU frequency.
`Advanced CPU Core Settings
&CPU Clock Ratio, CPU Frequency
The settings above are synchronous to those under the same items on the Advanced Frequency Settings
menu.
&Core Performance Boost (Note)
Allows you to determine whether to enable the Core Performance Boost (CPB) technology, a CPU
performance-boost technology. (Default: Auto)
&Turbo Performance Boost Ratio (Note)
Allows you to determine whether to improve CPU performance. (Default: Disabled)
&Core Performance Boost Ratio (Note)
Allows you alter the ratio for the CPB. The adjustable range is dependent on the CPU being installed.
(Default: Auto)
&AMD Cool&Quiet function
Enabled Lets the AMD Cool'n'Quiet driver dynamically adjust the CPU clock and VID to reduce
heat output from your computer and its power consumption. (Default)
Disabled Disables this function.
&cTDP function
Allows you to set the TDP consumption. Options are Disabled, 45W, 60W. (Default: Disabled)
&SVM Mode
Virtualization enhanced by Virtualization Technology will allow a platform to run multiple operating systems
and applications in independent partitions. With virtualization, one computer system can function as multiple
virtual systems. (Default: Enabled)
&C6 Mode
Allows you to determine whether to let the CPU enter C6 mode in system halt state. When enabled, the
CPU core frequency will be reduced during system halt state to decrease power consumption. The C6
state is a more enhanced power-saving state than C1. (Default: Enabled)
&CPU core Control
Allows you to determine whether to manually enable/disable CPU cores. Automatic mode allows the BIOS
to enable all CPU cores (number of cores available depends on the CPU being used). (Default: Automatic
mode)
(Note) This item is present only when you install a CPU that supports this feature.

- 20 -
(Note) This item is present only when you install a CPU and a memory module that support this feature.
&ExtremeMemoryProle(X.M.P.)(Note)
Allows the BIOS to read the SPD data on XMP memory module(s) to enhance memory performance when
enabled.
Disabled Disables this function. (Default)
Prole1 Uses Prole 1 settings.
Prole2 (Note) Uses Prole 2 settings.
&AMDMemoryProle(A.M.P.)(Note)
Allows the BIOS to read the SPD data on AMP memory module(s) to enhance memory performance when
enabled. (Default: Disabled)
&System Memory Multiplier
Allows you to set the system memory multiplier. Auto sets memory multiplier according to memory SPD
data. (Default: Auto)
&MemoryFrequency(MHz)
This value is automatically adjusted according to the CPU Clock Control and System Memory Multiplier
settings.
`Advanced Memory Settings
&ExtremeMemoryProle(X.M.P.)(Note),SystemMemoryMultiplier,MemoryFrequency(MHz)
The settings above are synchronous to those under the same items on the Advanced Frequency Settings
menu.
&Memory Timing Mode
Manual and Advanced Manual allows the Channel Interleaving, Rank Interleaving, and memory timing
settings below to be congurable. Options are: Auto (default), Manual, Advanced Manual.
&ProleDDRVoltage
When using a non-XMP memory module or ExtremeMemoryProle(X.M.P.) is set to Disabled, the value
is displayed according to your memory specication. When ExtremeMemoryProle(X.M.P.) is set to
Prole1 or Prole2, the value is displayed according to the SPD data on the XMP memory.
&Channel Interleaving
Enables or disables memory channel interleaving. Enabled allows the system to simultaneously access
different channels of the memory to increase memory performance and stability. Auto lets the BIOS
automatically congure this setting. (Default: Auto)
&Rank Interleaving
Enables or disables memory rank interleaving. Enabled allows the system to simultaneously access different
ranks of the memory to increase memory performance and stability. Auto lets the BIOS automatically
congure this setting. (Default: Auto)
`Channel A/B Memory Sub Timings
This sub-menu provides memory timing settings for each channel of memory. This sub-menu provides memory
timing settings for each channel of memory. The respective timing setting screens are congurable only when
Memory Timing Mode is set to Manual or Advanced Manual. Note: Your system may become unstable or fail
to boot after you make changes on the memory timings. If this occurs, please reset the board to default values
by loading optimized defaults or clearing the CMOS values.
`Advanced Voltage Settings
This sub-menu allows you to set CPU, chipset and memory voltages.
&APM
Enables or disables Application Power Management. (Default: Enabled)