Gigabyte GA-Z270X-DESIGNARE User manual

To reduce the impacts on global warming, the packaging materials of this product
are recyclable and reusable. GIGABYTE works with you to protect the environment.
For more product details, please visit GIGABYTE's website.
GA-Z270X-DESIGNARE
User's Manual
Rev. 1001
12ME-Z27XDES-1001R

Copyright
©2017 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:
Motherboard
GA-Z270X-DESIGNARE
Feb. 24, 2017
Feb. 24, 2017
Motherboard
GA-Z270X-DESIGNARE

- 3 -
Table of Contents
GA-Z270X-DESIGNARE Motherboard Layout................................................................4
Chapter 1 Hardware Installation .....................................................................................5
1-1 Installation Precautions.................................................................................... 5
1-2 ProductSpecications...................................................................................... 6
1-3 Installing the CPU .......................................................................................... 10
1-4 Installing the Memory..................................................................................... 10
1-5 Installing an Expansion Card ......................................................................... 11
1-6 Setting up AMD CrossFire™/NVIDIA®SLI™Conguration .............................. 11
1-7 Back Panel Connectors.................................................................................. 12
1-8 Internal Connectors........................................................................................ 14
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup ..................................................................................................23
2-1 Startup Screen ............................................................................................... 23
2-2 M.I.T. .............................................................................................................. 24
2-3 System ........................................................................................................... 30
2-4 BIOS............................................................................................................... 31
2-5 Peripherals..................................................................................................... 34
2-6 Chipset........................................................................................................... 37
2-7 Power............................................................................................................. 38
2-8 Save & Exit..................................................................................................... 40
Chapter 3 Appendix ......................................................................................................41
3-1 ConguringaRAIDSet.................................................................................. 41
3-2 Enabling Intel®Optane™Technology.............................................................. 43
3-3 Drivers Installation.......................................................................................... 44
Regulatory Statements.............................................................................................. 45
Contact Us ................................................................................................................ 48

- 4 -
GA-Z270X-DESIGNARE 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.
Box Contents
5GA-Z270X-DESIGNARE motherboard 5Four SATA cables
5Motherboard driver disk 5I/O Shield
5User's Manual 5One G Connector
5Quick Installation Guide
KB_MS_USB30
DVI
HDMI
R_USB30
TYPEC
USB31
USB_LAN
LGA1151
ATX
AUDIO
DDR4_4 DDR4_2 DDR4_3 DDR4_1
ATX_12V_2X4
Intel®Z270
CLR_CMOS
M_BIOS U2_32G
B_BIOS
PCIEX1_1
PCIEX8
PCIEX4
PCIEX16
PCIEX1_2
PCIEX1_3
F_USB30
F_USB31C SYS_FAN2
M2A_32G
CODEC
GA-Z270X-DESIGNARE
F_PANELF_USB1F_USB2TPMLED_CSPDIF_O
F_AUDIO
SYS_FAN3_
PUMP
SYS_FAN1 CPU_FAN
CPU_OPT
iTE®
Super I/O
426080110
SATA3
SATA3
5 4 1 0
3 2
SATA EXPRESS
BAT
ASMedia®USB 3.1 Gen 2
Controller
ASMedia®USB 3.1 Gen 2
Controller
Intel®GbE
LAN
CPU DRAM
VGA BOOT

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 connecting or 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 or wet 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.
- 5 -

1-2 ProductSpecications
CPU Support for 7th and 6th Generation Intel®Core™i7 processors/
Intel®Core™i5 processors/Intel®Core™i3 processors/
Intel®Pentium®processors/Intel®Celeron®processors in the LGA1151 package
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
L3 cache varies with CPU
Chipset Intel®Z270 Express Chipset
Memory 4 x DDR4 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.
Dual channel memory architecture
Support for DDR4 2400/2133 MHz memory modules
Support for ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8 memory modules (operate in
non-ECC mode)
Support for non-ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx16 memory modules
Supportfor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-Intel®HD Graphics support:
- 1 x DVI-D port, supporting a maximum resolution of 1920x1200@60 Hz
* The DVI-D port does not support D-Sub connection by adapter.
- 1 x HDMI port, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096x2160@24 Hz
* Support for HDMI 1.4 version.
Maximum shared memory of 1 GB
Audio Realtek®ALC1220 codec
HighDenitionAudio
2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
Support for S/PDIF Out
LAN Intel®GbE LAN chip (10/100/1000 Mbit)
Expansion Slots 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x16 (PCIEX16)
* For optimum performance, if only one PCI Express graphics card is to be installed,
be sure to install it in the PCIEX16 slot.
1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x8 (PCIEX8)
* The PCIEX8 slot shares bandwidth with the PCIEX16 slot. When the PCIEX8 slot is
populated, the PCIEX16 slot operates at up to x8 mode.
1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x4 (PCIEX4)
* The PCIEX4 slot shares bandwidth with the PCIEX1_2 and PCIEX1_3 slots. When
the PCIEX1_2 or PCIEX1_3 slot is populated, the PCIEX4 slot will operates at up to
x1 mode.
3 x PCI Express x1 slots
(All of the PCI Express slots conform to PCI Express 3.0 standard.)
Multi-Graphics
Technology
Support for NVIDIA®Quad-GPU SLI™and 2-Way NVIDIA®SLI™technologies
Support for AMD Quad-GPU CrossFireX™and 3-Way/2-Way AMD CrossFire™
technologies
- 6 -

Storage Interface Chipset:
- 1 x M.2 connector (Socket 3, M key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 SATA and
PCIe x4/x2 SSD support)
- 1 x U.2 connector
- 2 x SATA Express connectors
- 6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
- Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10
* Refer to "1-8 Internal Connectors," for the installation notices for the M.2 and SATA
connectors.
USB Chipset+ASMedia®USB 3.1 Gen 2 Controller:
- 1 x USB Type-C™port on the back panel, with USB 3.1 Gen 2 support
- 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A port (red) on the back panel
- 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 port available through the internal USB header
Chipset:
- 6 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports (4 ports on the back panel, 2 ports available through
the internal USB header)
- 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (2 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
1 x CPU fan header
1 x water cooling CPU fan header
2 x system fan headers
1 x system fan/water cooling pump header
1 x RGB (RGBW) LED strip extension cable header
2 x SATA Express connectors
6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
1 x M.2 Socket 3 connector
1 x U.2 connector
1 x front panel header
1 x front panel audio header
1 x S/PDIF Out header
1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 header
1 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 header
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
1 x Trusted Platform Module (TPM) header
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
- 7 -

Back Panel
Connectors
1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse port
1 x DVI-D port
1 x HDMI port
1 x USB Type-C™port, with USB 3.1 Gen 2 support
1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A port (red)
4 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports
2 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
Voltage detection
Temperature detection
Fan speed detection
Overheating warning
Fan fail warning
Fan speed control
* Whether the fan (pump) speed control function is supported will depend on the fan
(pump) you install.
BIOS 2x64Mbitash
Use of licensed AMI UEFI BIOS
Support for DualBIOS™
PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.7, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0
Unique Features Support for APP Center
* Available applications in APP Center may vary by motherboard model. Supported
functionsofeachapplicationmayalsovarydependingonmotherboardspecications.
- 3D OSD
- @BIOS
- AutoGreen
- BIOS Setup
- Color Temperature
- Cloud Station
- EasyTune
- Easy RAID
- Fast Boot
- Game Boost
- ON/OFF Charge
- Platform Power Management
- RGB Fusion
- Smart Backup
- Smart Keyboard
- Smart TimeLock
- System Information Viewer
- USB Blocker
- USB DAC-UP 2
- V-Tuner
- 8 -

Unique Features Support for Q-Flash
Support for Xpress Install
Bundled
Software
Norton®Internet Security (OEM version)
Intel®Optane™Memory Ready
cFosSpeed
Operating
System
Support for Windows 10 64-bit (for 7th Generation Intel®processors)
Support for Windows 10 64-bit/Windows 8.1 64-bit/Windows 7 32-bit/64-bit (for
6th Generation Intel®processors)
* Please download the "Windows USB Installation Tool" from GIGABYTE's website
and install it before installing Windows 7.
Form Factor ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm 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 GIGABYTE's website
for support lists of CPU, memory
modules, SSDs, M.2, and U.2 devices.
Please visit the Support\Utility List
page on GIGABYTE's website to
download the latest version of apps.
- 9 -

DualChannelMemoryConguration
This motherboard provides four 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.
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for details on hardware installation.
1-3 InstallingtheCPU
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:
•Make sure that the motherboard supports the CPU.
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
•Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the
CPU to prevent hardware damage.
•Locate the pin one of the CPU. The CPU cannot be inserted if oriented incorrectly. (Or you may
locate the notches on both sides of the CPU and alignment keys on the CPU socket.)
•Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the CPU.
•Do not turn on the computer if the CPU cooler is not installed, otherwise overheating and damage
of the CPU may occur.
•SettheCPUhostfrequencyinaccordancewiththeCPU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CPU,graphics
card, memory, hard drive, etc.
InstallingtheCPU
Locate the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU.
DonotremovetheCPUsocketcoverbeforeinsertingtheCPU.Itmaypopofffromtheload
plateautomaticallyduringtheprocessofre-engagingtheleverafteryouinserttheCPU.
Alignment KeyAlignment Key
LGA1151 CPU Socket
Pin One Corner of the CPU Socket
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.
LGA1151 CPU
Triangle Pin One Marking on the CPU
Notch
Notch
- 10 -

The four memory sockets are divided into two channels and each channel has two memory sockets as following:
Channel A: DDR4_2, DDR4_4
Channel B: DDR4_1, DDR4_3
DualChannelMemoryCongurationsTable
DDR4_4 DDR4_2 DDR4_3 DDR4_1
2 Modules - - DS/SS - - DS/SS
DS/SS - - DS/SS - -
4 Modules DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS
(SS=Single-Sided, DS=Double-Sided, "- -"=No Memory)
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.
B.ConnectingtheGraphicsCards
Step 1:
Observe the steps in "1-5 Installing an Expansion Card" and install CrossFire/SLI graphics cards on the PCI
Expressx16slots.(To setupa2-Wayconguration,we recommend installingthegraphics cards onthe
PCIEX16 and PCIEX8 slots.)
Step 2:
Insert the CrossFire (Note 2)/SLI bridge connectors in the CrossFire/SLI gold edge connectors on top of the cards.
Step 3:
Plug the display cable into the graphics card on the PCIEX16 slot.
1-6 SettingupAMDCrossFire™/NVIDIA®SLI™Conguration
A.SystemRequirements
-Windows 10/8.1/7 operating system
-A CrossFire/SLI-supported motherboard with two or more PCI Express x16 slots and correct driver
-CrossFire/SLI-ready graphics cards of identical brand and chip and correct driver
(Current GPUs that support 3-Way CrossFire technology include theAMD Radeon™HD 6800, HD 6900, HD
7800, HD 7900, R9 200, R7 200, R9 300, R7 300, RX 400 series and above. For the latest GPU support
information, please refer to the AMD website.) (Note 1)
-CrossFire (Note 2)/SLI bridge connectors
-Apowersupplywithsufcientpowerisrecommended(Refertothemanualofyourgraphicscardsforthe
power requirement)
C.ConguringtheGraphicsCardDriver
C-1.ToEnableCrossFireFunction
After installing the graphics card driver in the operating system, go to the AMD RADEON SETTINGS screen.
Browse to Gaming\GlobalSettings and ensure AMDCrossFireX is set to On.
C-2.ToEnableSLIFunction
After installing the graphics card driver in the operating system, go to the NVIDIA Control Panel. Browse to the
CongureSLI,Surround,Physx screen and ensure Maximize 3D performance is enabled.
Due to CPU limitations, read the following guidelines before installing the memory in Dual Channel mode.
1. Dual Channel mode cannot be enabled if only one 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.
(Note 1) When using dual core graphics cards, only 2-way is supported.
(Note 2) The bridge connector(s) may be needed or not depending on your graphics cards.
Procedure and driver screen for enabling CrossFire/SLI technology may differ by graphics cards and driver version.
Refer to the manual that came with your graphics cards for more information about enabling CrossFire/SLI technology.
- 11 -

1-7 Back Panel Connectors
PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port
Use this port to connect a PS/2 mouse or keyboard.
USB3.1Gen1Port
TheUSB3.1Gen1portsupportstheUSB3.1Gen1specicationandiscompatibletotheUSB2.0
specication.YoucanconnectaUSBDACtothisportorusethisportforUSBdevices.
DVI-D Port (Note)
TheDVI-DportconformstotheDVI-Dspecicationandsupportsamaximumresolutionof1920x1200@60Hz
(the actual resolutions supported depend on the monitor being used). Connect a monitor that supports
DVI-D connection to this port.
USB3.1Gen2Type-APort(Red)
TheUSB3.1Gen2Type-AportsupportstheUSB3.1Gen2specicationandiscompatibletotheUSB
3.1Gen1andUSB2.0specication.UsethisportforUSBdevices.
USB Type-C™Port
ThereversibleUSBportsupportstheUSB3.1Gen2specicationandiscompatibletotheUSB3.1Gen1
andUSB2.0specication.UsethisportforUSBdevices.
USB3.1Gen1Port
TheUSB3.1Gen1portsupportstheUSB3.1Gen1specicationandiscompatibletotheUSB2.0
specication.UsethisportforUSBdevices.
HDMI Port
The HDMI port is HDCP compliant and supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD
Master Audio formats. It also supports up to 192KHz/16bit 8-channel LPCM
audio output. You can use this port to connect your HDMI-supported monitor. The maximum supported
resolution is 4096x2160@24 Hz, but the actual resolutions supported are dependent on the monitor
being used.
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.
After installing the HDMI device, make sure to set the default sound playback device to HDMI.
(The item name may differ depending on your operating system.)
USB2.0/1.1Port
TheUSBportsupportstheUSB2.0/1.1specication.UsethisportforUSBdevices.
(Note) The DVI-D port does not support D-Sub connection by adapter.
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
On No data transmission or receiving is occurring
- 12 -

Center/SubwooferSpeakerOut(Orange)
Usethisaudiojacktoconnectcenter/subwooferspeakersina5.1/7.1-channelaudioconguration.
Rear Speaker Out (Black)
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 (Blue)
The line in jack. Use this audio jack for line in devices such as an optical drive, walkman, etc.
Line Out (Green)
The 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 (actual effects may vary by the device being used).
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 (Pink)
The Mic in jack.
If you want to install a Side Speaker, you need to retask either the Line in or Mic in jack to be Side
Speaker out through the audio driver. Please visit GIGABYTE's website for more software information.
•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.
- 13 -

1-8 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_2X4
2) ATX
3) CPU_FAN
4) SYS_FAN1/2
5) SYS_FAN3_PUMP
6) CPU_OPT
7) LED_C
8) SATA EXPRESS
9) SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5
10) U2_32G
11) M2A_32G
12) F_ PANEL
13) F_ AUDIO
14) SPDIF_O
15) F_USB31C
16) F_USB30
17) F_USB1/F_USB2
18) TPM
19) CLR_CMOS
20) BAT
21) CPU/VGA/DRAM/BOOT
4
5 12 19 21
15
2
9
8
16
1813 14
1
4
7
10
9
20
11
17
36
- 14 -

3/4)CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/2(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.
•Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from
overheating. Overheating may result in damage to the CPU 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
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
1
SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
1
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 Voltage Speed Control
3 Sense
4 PWM Speed Control
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
131
2412
ATX
1/2) ATX_12V_2X4/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 CPU. If the 12V power connector is not connected,
the computer will not start.
To meet expansion requirements, it is recommended that a power supply that can withstand high
power consumption be used (500W or greater). If a power supply is used that does not provide the
required power, the result can lead to an unstable or unbootable system.
ATX:
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
9 5VSB (stand by +5V) 21 +5V
10 +12V 22 +5V
11 +12V (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX)
23 +5V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
12 3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX)
24 GND (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
ATX_12V_2X4:
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
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
ATX_12V_2X4
41
85
- 15 -

5) SYS_FAN3_PUMP(SystemFan/WaterCoolingPumpHeader)
The fan/pump header is 4-pin and possesses a foolproof insertion design. 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. The header also provides speed control for a water cooling pump, refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup,"
"M.I.T.," for more information
6) CPU_OPT(WaterCoolingCPUFanHeader)
The fan header is 4-pin and possesses a foolproof insertion design. 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.
DEBUG PORT
G.QBOFM
1
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
1
7) LED_C(RGB(RGBW)LEDStripExtensionCableHeader)
The header can be used to connect a standard 5050 RGB (RGBW) LED strip (12V/G/R/B/W), with maximum
power rating of 2A (12V) and maximum length of 2m.
Pin No. Denition
1 12V
2 G
3 R
4 B
5 W
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.
For how to turn on/off the lights of the RGB (RGBW) LED strip, refer to the instructions on in
Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup."
Connect one end of the RGB (RGBW) LED strip extension cable to the header
and the other end to your RGB (RGBW) LED strip. The black wire (marked
with a triangle on the plug) of the extension cable must be connected to Pin
1 (12V) of this header. The 12V pin (marked with an arrow) on the other end
of the extension cable must be lined up with the 12V of the LED strip. Be
careful with the connection orientation of the LED strip; incorrect connection
may lead to the damage of the LED strip.
12V
1
Black wire
12V of the
LED strip
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 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_
USB0_B
B_ F_USB3

1
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 Voltage Speed Control
3 Sense
4 PWM Speed Control
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 Voltage Speed Control
3 Sense
4 PWM Speed Control
- 16 -

9) 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 SATA
1.5Gb/s standard. Each SATAconnector supports a single SATA device. The Intel®Chipset supports RAID 0,
RAID1,RAID5,andRAID10.RefertoChapter3,"ConguringaRAIDSet,"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
To enable hot-plugging for the SATA ports, refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Peripherals\SATA
AndRSTConguration,"formoreinformation.
1
1
SATA3SATA3 5 4
1 0
2
3
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 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_
USB0_B
B_ F_USB3

7
7
71
71
8) SATA EXPRESS (SATA Express Connectors)
Each SATA Express connector supports a single SATA Express device.
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 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_
USB0_B
B_ F_USB3

10) U2_32G(U.2Connector)
The U.2 connector supports a single U.2 device. Please note that a U.2 SSD cannot be used to create
a RAID set either with an M.2 SATA SSD or a SATA hard drive. To create a RAID array with a U.2 SSD,
youmustsetupthecongurationinUEFIBIOSmode.RefertoChapter3,"ConguringaRAIDSet,"for
instructionsonconguringaRAIDarray.
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 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_
USB0_B
B_ F_USB3

DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
- 17 -

11) M2A_32G(M.2Socket3Connector)
 TheM.2connectorsupportsM.2SATASSDsandM.2PCIeSSDsandsupportRAIDcongurationthrough
the Intel®Chipset. Please note that an M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to create a RAID set either with
an M.2 SATA SSD or a SATA hard drive. To create a RAID array with an M.2 PCIe SSD, you must set up
thecongurationinUEFIBIOSmode.RefertoChapter3,"ConguringaRAIDSet,"forinstructionson
conguringaRAIDarray.
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 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_
USB0_B
B_ F_USB3

80110 60 42
InstallationNoticesfortheM.2andSATAConnectors:
Due to the limited number of lanes provided by the Chipset, the availability of the SATA connectors may be
affected by the type of device installed in the M2A_32G connector. The M2A_32G connector shares bandwidth
with the SATA3 0 connector. Refer to the following table for details.
SATA3 0 SATA3 1 SATA3 2 SATA3 3 SATA3 4 SATA3 5
M.2 SATA SSD ra a a a a
M.2 PCIe x4 SSD
a a a a a a
M.2 PCIe x2 SSD
a a a a a a
No M.2 SSD Installed a a a a a a
a: Available, r: Not available
Connector
Type of
M.2 SSD
Follow the steps below to correctly install an M.2 SSD in the M.2 connector.
Step 1:
Use a screw driver to unfasten the screw and nut from the motherboard. Locate the proper mounting hole for
theM.2SSDtobeinstalledandthenscrewthenutrst.
Step 2:
Slide the M.2 SSD into the connector at an angle.
Step 3:
Press the M.2 SSD down and then secure it with the screw.
Select the proper hole for the M.2 SSD to be installed and refasten the screw and nut.
- 18 -

12) 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.
13) 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.
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.
System Status LED
S0 On
S3/S4/S5 Off
•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," 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):
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, 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.
•NC: No Connection.
NC NC
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-
•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.
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 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_
USB0_B
B_ F_USB3

9 1
10 2
For HD Front Panel Audio:
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1 MIC2_L 6 Sense
2 GND 7 FAUDIO_JD
3 MIC2_R 8 No Pin
4 NC 9 LINE2_L
5 LINE2_R 10 Sense
For AC'97 Front Panel Audio:
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1 MIC 6 NC
2 GND 7 NC
3 MIC Power 8 No Pin
4 NC 9 Line Out (L)
5Line Out (R) 10 NC
- 19 -

14) 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
15) F_USB31C(USB3.1Gen2Header)
 TheheaderconformstoUSB3.1Gen2specicationandcanprovideoneUSBport.
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
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1 VBUS 11 VBUS
2 TX1+ 12 TX2+
3 TX1- 13 TX2-
4 GND 14 GND
5 RX1+ 15 RX2+
6 RX1- 16 RX2-
7 VBUS 17 GND
8 CC1 18 D-
9 SBU1 19 D+
10 SBU2 20 CC2
16) F_USB30(USB3.1Gen1Header)
 TheheaderconformstoUSB3.1Gen1andUSB2.0specicationandcanprovidetwoUSBports.For
purchasing the optional 3.5" front panel that provides two USB 3.1 Gen 1 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 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_
USB0_B
B_ F_USB3

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 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_
USB0_B
B_ F_USB3

10
10
20
20
1
1
11
11
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.
- 20 -