Gigabyte G1.Sniper A88X User manual

G1.Sniper A88X
User's Manual
Rev. 3002
12ME-G1SNP88-3002R

Copyright
©2016 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.
In order to assist in the use of this product, carefully read the User's Manual.
For quick set-up of the product, read the Quick Installation Guide included with the product.
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:
Motherboard
G1.Sniper A88X
Aug. 19, 2013
Aug. 19, 2013
Motherboard
G1.Sniper A88X

- 3 -
Table of Contents
G1.Sniper A88X Motherboard Layout..............................................................................4
G1.Sniper A88X 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 Setup of the AMD Dual Graphics Conguration............................................. 10
1-7 Back Panel Connectors.................................................................................. 10
1-8 Changing the Operational Amplier ............................................................... 12
1-9 Internal Connectors........................................................................................ 13
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup ..................................................................................................19
2-1 Startup Screen ............................................................................................... 19
2-2 M.I.T. .............................................................................................................. 20
2-3 System Information ........................................................................................ 23
2-4 BIOS Features ............................................................................................... 24
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.......................................................................................... 34
Regulatory Statements.............................................................................................. 35
Contact Us ................................................................................................................ 36

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G1.Sniper A88X Motherboard Layout
Box Contents
5G1.Sniper A88X motherboard
5Motherboard driver disk 5Four SATA cables
5User's Manual 5I/O Shield
5Quick Installation Guide
KB_MS_USB
SYS_FAN1
Socket FM2+
ATX
G1.Sniper A88X
F_AUDIO
AUDIO
PCIEX4
DDR3_4 DDR3_2
BAT
ATX_12V
AMD A88X
SATA3
PCI1
PCI2
HDMI
R_USB30
USB_LAN
CODEC
SYS_FAN3
PCIEX1_2
PCIEX1_3
PCIEX1_1
PCIEX16
M_BIOS
B_BIOS
CLR_CMOS
Realtek®
GbE LAN
6
7
iTE®
Super I/O
0
SYS_FAN2
CPU_FAN
VGA
DVI
F_USB30
SATA3
USB_DAC
CAP_SW2 CAP_SW1
F_PANELCOM
SPDIF_O F_USB1
F_USB2
TPM
1
2
3
4
5
DDR3_3 DDR3_1
* 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.

- 5 -
For detailed product information/limitation(s), refer to "1-2 Product Specications."
G1.Sniper A88X Motherboard Block Diagram
UMI
PCI Bus
2 PCI
PCI CLK
(33 MHz)
LPC
Bus
PS/2 KB/Mouse
Dual BIOS
9 USB 2.0/1.1
8 SATA 6Gb/s
APU CLK+/- (100 MHz)
DISP CLK+/- (100 MHz)
HDMI
DDR3 2133/1866/1600/1333 MHz
4 USB 3.0/2.0
DVI-D
D-Sub
AMD APU Dual Channel Memory
Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out
Line Out
MIC
Line In
S/PDIF Out
Rear Speaker Out
Side Speaker Out
CODEC
AMD A88X
PCI Express Bus
PCI Express Bus
PCIe CLK
(100 MHz)
PCIe CLK
(100 MHz)
3 PCI Express x1
x4
x1 x1x1 x1
LAN
RJ45
Realtek®
GbE LAN
x16
1 PCI Express x16
1 PCI Express x4
iTE®
Super I/O
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.
•If you use an adapter, extension power cable, or power strip, ensure to consult with its installation
and/or grounding instructions.

- 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 A88X
Memory 4 x 1.5V 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
APU with integrated AMD Radeon™HD 8000/7000 series graphics:
* To use the onboard graphics port, you must install an AMD APU with integrated
graphics.
- 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.
- Maximum shared memory of 2 GB
Audio Realtek®ALC898 codec
High Denition Audio
2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
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 PCIEX16 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)
3 x PCI Express x1 slots
(The PCIEX4 and PCI Express x1 slots conform to PCI Express 2.0 standard.)
2 x PCI slots
Multi-Graphics
Technology
Support for AMD Dual Graphics technology
* Only A series APUs support AMD Dual Graphics.
Storage Interface Chipset:
- 8 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
- Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, and JBOD

- 8 -
USB Chipset:
- 4 USB 3.0/2.0 ports (2 ports on the back panel, 2 ports available through the
internal USB header)
- 9 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (5 ports on the back panel, 4 ports available through the
internal USB headers)
Internal
Connectors
1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector
1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
8 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
1 x APU fan header
3 x system fan headers
1 x front panel header
1 x front panel audio header
1 x S/PDIF Out header
1 x USB 3.0/2.0 header
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
1 x serial port header
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
1 x Trusted Platform Module (TPM) header
2 x gain control switches
Back Panel
Connectors
1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse port
1 x D-Sub port
1 x DVI-D port
1 x HDMI port
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports
5 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
1 x RJ-45 port
1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector
 5 x audio jacks (Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out, Rear Speaker Out, 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 2 x 64 Mbit ash
Use of licensed AMI EFI BIOS
Support for DualBIOS™
PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.0, SM BIOS 2.6, ACPI 2.0a
Unique Features Support for @BIOS
Support for Q-Flash
Support for Xpress Install
Support for EasyTune
* Available functions in EasyTune may differ by motherboard model.
Support for Smart Recovery 2

- 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 pin one (denoted by a small triangle) of the APU socket and the APU.
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 ON/OFF Charge
Bundled
Software
Norton® Internet Security (OEM version)
cFosSpeed
Operating
System
Support for Windows 8.1/8/7 32-bit/64-bit
* If you plan to install Windows 8.1, please download the latest drivers from
GIGABYTE's website.
Support for Windows XP 32-bit
* To support Windows XP 32-bit, you must install an AMD FM2 Trinity APU.
Form Factor ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 22.5cm
* GIGABYTE reserves the right to make any changes to the product specications and product-related information without
prior notice.
* Please visit the Support\Utility List page on GIGABYTE's website to check the supported operating system(s) for the
software listed in the "Unique Features" and "Bundled Software" columns.
APUFM2+ Socket A Small Triangle
Marking Denotes
APU Pin One
A Small Triangle
Marking Denotes Pin
One of the Socket
1-4 Installing the Memory

- 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 SetupoftheAMDDualGraphicsConguration
A. System Requirements
-AMD A series processor
-Windows 8/7 operating system
-An AMD Dual Graphics technology-supported motherboard (with the BIOS updated to the latest version)
and correct driver (make sure the onboard graphics driver version is Rev. 8.982 or above)
-An AMD Radeon™ HD 6000 series graphics card that supports AMD Dual Graphics technology (for more
details, please visit AMD's ofcial website) and correct driver
B.InstallingtheGraphicsCardsandConguringBIOSSetup
Step 1:
Observe the steps in "1-5 Installing an Expansion Card" and install an AMD Dual Graphics technology-supported
graphics card on the PCIEX16 slot. Plug the monitor cable into the graphics card and start up your computer.
Step 2:
Enter BIOS Setup to set the following items under the Peripherals\GFXConguration menu:
-Set Integrated Graphics to Force.
-Set UMA Frame Buffer Size to 512M or above.
Save the settings and exit BIOS Setup. Restart your computer.
C.ConguringtheGraphicsDriver
After installing the graphics card driver in the operating system, go to the AMDVISIONEngineControlCenter.
Browse to Performance\AMD Radeon™Dual Graphics and ensure the Enable AMD Radeon Dual Graphics
check box is selected.
(Note) Make sure the drivers for the Chipset, onboard graphics, and external graphics card are properly
installed.
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 one memory socket as
following:
Channel A: DDR3_2, DDR3_4
Channel B: 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.
1-7 Back Panel Connectors

- 11 -
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.
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.
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 (Note 2), but the actual resolutions supported are dependent on the monitor being used.
After installing the HDMI device, make sure to set the default sound playback device to HDMI.
USB 2.0/1.1 Port
The USB port supports the USB 2.0/1.1 specication. You can connect a USB DAC to this port or use this
port for USB devices such as a USB keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB ash drive and etc.
A.Triple-DisplayCongurations:
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.
B. Playback of a Blu-ray Disc™:
In order to get better playback quality, when playing a Blu-ray Disc™, 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)
(Note 1) The DVI-D port does not support D-Sub connection by adapter.
(Note 2) The resolution of 4096x2160 can be supported when using an FM2+ APU; the maximum resolution
supported is 1920x1200 when using an FM2 APU.

- 12 -
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.
Activity LED:
State Description
Blinking Data transmission or receiving is occurring
Off No data transmission or receiving is occurring
Connection/Speed LED:
State Description
Orange 1 Gbps data rate
Green 100 Mbps data rate
Off 10 Mbps data rate
Activity LED
Connection/
Speed LED
LAN Port
The audio jacks can be recongured to perform different functions via the audio software (supported
functions for each jack may vary based on hardware specication). If you install a Side Speaker, you
need to retask other audio jack to be Side Speaker out. Only microphones still MUST be connected
to the default Mic in jack.
Center/SubwooferSpeakerOutJack
Use this audio jack to connect center/subwoofer speakers in a 5.1/7.1-channel audio conguration.
RearSpeakerOutJack
This jack can be used to connect rear speakers in a 4/5.1/7.1-channel audio conguration.
OpticalS/PDIFOutConnector
This connector provides digital audio out to an external audio system that supports digital optical audio.
Before using this feature, ensure that your audio system provides an optical digital audio in connector.
Line In Jack
The default line in jack. Use this audio jack for line in devices such as an optical drive, walkman, etc.
LineOutJack
The default line out jack. This jack supports audio amplifying function. For better sound quality, it is
recommended that you connect your headphone/speaker to this 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
The default Mic in jack. Microphones must be connected to this jack.
•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.
1-8 ChangingtheOperationalAmplier
Step 1:
Use an IC extractor to carefully grip the IC's sides and extract it from
the socket.

- 13 -
1-9 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.
Step 2:
Align the notch on your OP chip with the notch on the socket and
gently press the chip into the socket until seated.
For purchasing the IC extractor and OP Chip, please contact the local dealer.
1)ATX_12V
2)ATX
3)CPU_FAN
4)SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2/SYS_FAN3
5)SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5/6/7
6)F_PANEL
7)F_AUDIO
8)SPDIF_O
9)F_USB30
10)F_USB1/F_USB2
11)COM
12)TPM
13)BAT
14)CLR_CMOS
15)CAP_SW1/CAP_SW2
1
2
4
3
5
58
7
10 6
4
4
5
9
11 12
13
14
15

- 14 -
1/2)ATX_12V/ATX(2x412VPowerConnectorand2x12MainPowerConnector)
With the use of the power connector, the power supply can supply enough stable power to all the components
on the motherboard. Before connecting the power connector, 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 APU. If the 12V power connector is not connected,
the computer will not start.
3/4)CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2/SYS_FAN3(FanHeaders)
The motherboard has a 4-pin CPU fan header (CPU_FAN), two 4-pin (SYS_FAN1, SYS_FAN2) and a 3-pin
(SYS_FAN3) system fan headers. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design. When connecting
a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is the ground wire).
The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design. For optimum heat
dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed inside the chassis.
To meet expansion requirements, it is recommended that a power supply that can withstand high power consumption
be used (500W or greater). If a power supply is used that does not provide the required power, the result can
lead to an unstable or unbootable system.
ATX_12V:
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 NC
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)
SYS_FAN3:
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 +12V
3 NC
•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.
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V) 5+12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
2GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V) 6+12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
3 GND 7 +12V
4 GND 8 +12V
SYS_FAN1/2:
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 Speed Control
3 Sense
4 VCC
CPU_FAN:
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 +12V
3 Sense
4 Speed Control
ATX_12V
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
8
4
5
1
CPU_FAN
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
1
DEBUG PORT
G.QBOFM
1
SYS_FAN1/2
SYS_FAN3
1

- 15 -
5) SATA30/1/2/3/4/5/6/7(SATA6Gb/sConnectors)
The SATA connectors conform to SATA 6Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and SATA
1.5Gb/s standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The AMD A88X Chipset supports
RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, 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) F_PANEL(FrontPanelHeader)
Connect the power switch, reset switch, speaker, chassis intrusion switch/sensor and system status indicator
on the chassis to this header according to the pin assignments below. Note the positive and negative pins
before connecting the cables.
System Status LED
S0 On
S3/S4/S5 Off
•PW (Power Switch, Red):
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, Orange):
Connects to the speaker on the chassis front panel. The system reports
system startup status by issuing a beep code. One single short beep
will be heard if no problem is detected at system startup.
•PLED/PWR_LED (Power LED, Yellow/Purple):
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).
The front panel design may differ by chassis.Afront 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.
•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 5 conguration requires at least three hard drives. (The total number of hard drives does not have to be
an even number.)
•A RAID 10 conguration requires four hard drives.
135
SATA3
71
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
024
6
7
SATA3
71
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
7 1
7 1
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
Power LED
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
1
2
19
20
CI-
CI+
PWR_LED-
PWR_LED+
PLED- PW- SPEAK+ SPEAK-
PLED+ PW+
Power LED
HD-
RES+
HD+
RES-
Hard Drive
Activity LED
Reset
Switch Chassis Intrusion
Header
Power Switch Speaker
PWR_LED-
•HD (Hard Drive Activity LED, Blue):
Connects to the hard drive activity LED on the chassis front panel. The LED is on when the hard drive is
reading or writing data.
•RES (Reset Switch, Green):
Connects to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset switch to restart the computer if the
computer freezes and fails to perform a normal restart.
•CI (Chassis Intrusion Header, Gray):
Connects to the chassis intrusion switch/sensor on the chassis that can detect if the chassis cover has been
removed. This function requires a chassis with a chassis intrusion switch/sensor.

- 16 -
7) 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.
For HD Front Panel Audio: ForAC'97 Front Panel Audio:
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.
8) 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.
Pin No. Denition
1 SPDIFO
2 GND
1
9) F_USB30(USB3.0/2.0Header)
The header conforms to USB 3.0/2.0 specication and can provide two USB ports. For purchasing the
optional 3.5" front panel that provides two USB 3.0/2.0 ports, please contact the local dealer.
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1 VBUS 11 D2+
2 SSRX1- 12 D2-
3 SSRX1+ 13 GND
4 GND 14 SSTX2+
5 SSTX1- 15 SSTX2-
6 SSTX1+ 16 GND
7 GND 17 SSRX2+
8 D1- 18 SSRX2-
9 D1+ 19 VBUS
10 NC 20 No Pin
Prior to installing the USB front panel, be sure to turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power
outlet to prevent damage to the USB front panel.
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
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 __ 3
F_USB3F
1011
20 1
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
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 __ 3
F_USB3F
9 1
10 2

- 17 -
10) 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.
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.
11) COM(SerialPortHeader)
The COM header can provide one serial port via an optional COM port cable. For purchasing the optional
COM port cable, please contact the local dealer.
Pin No. 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
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
10
9
2
1
10
9
2
1
12) TPM(TrustedPlatformModuleHeader)
You may connect a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) to this header.
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1 LCLK 11 LAD0
2 GND 12 GND
3 LFRAME 13 NC
4 No Pin 14 NC
5 LRESET 15 SB3V
6 NC 16 SERIRQ
7 LAD3 17 GND
8 LAD2 18 NC
9 VCC3 19 NC
10 LAD1 20 SUSCLK
20
19
2
1
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
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 __ 3
F_USB3F

- 18 -
14) 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
13) 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.
15) CAP_SW1/CAP_SW2(GainControlSwitches)
The two switches allow for gain control for your headphone. Please make sure the two switches are set in
the same position and are set according to your headphone specication.
2: 6X
1: 2.5X (Default)
CAP_SW2
1
2
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  
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 
1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
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1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 __ 3
F_USB3F
CAP_SW1
1
2
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 

_
B
BS_
B
SB_
B
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
S_
_
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_
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S  
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1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3  
 S3 BSSS U
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1 2 3 
 
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1 2 3 
 
1 2 3 
 __ 3
F_USB3F

- 19 -
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.
To upgrade the BIOS, use either the GIGABYTE Q-Flash or @BIOS utility.
•Q-Flash allows the user to quickly and easily upgrade or back up BIOS without entering the operating system.
•@BIOS is a Windows-based utility that searches and downloads the latest version of BIOS from the Internet
and updates the BIOS.
2-1 Startup Screen
The following startup Logo screen will appear when the computer boots.
(Sample BIOS Version: F1d)
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.

- 20 -
2-2 M.I.T.
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.)
This section provides information on the BIOS version, CPU base clock, CPU frequency, memory frequency,
total memory size, CPU temperature, Vcore, and memory voltage.
`M.I.T. Current Status
This screen provides information on CPU/memory frequencies/parameters.
`Advanced Frequency Settings
&BCLK/PCIe Clock Control
Allows you to manually set the CPU base clock and PCIe bus frequency in 1 MHz increments. (Default:
Auto)
Important: It is highly recommended that the CPU frequency be set in accordance with the CPU
specications.
&NBClock(Mhz)
Allows you to manually set the CPU North Bridge frequency. The adjustable range is from 800 MHz to 6000 MHz.
&Processor Graphics Clock
Allows you to set the onboard graphics clock. The adjustable range is from 300 MHz to 2000 MHz.
&CPU Clock Ratio
Allows you to alter the clock ratio for the installed CPU. The adjustable range is dependent on the CPU
being installed.
&CPU Frequency
Displays the current operating CPU frequency.
`Advanced CPU Core Features
&CPU Clock Ratio, CPU Frequency
The settings above are synchronous to those under the same items on the Advanced Frequency Settings
menu.