Manual PDF
Manual PDF
Sniper M3
User's Manual
Rev. 1002
12ME-G1SNPM3-1002R
Disclaimer
Information in this manual is protected by copyright laws and is the property of GIGABYTE.
Changes to the specifications and features in this manual may be made by GIGABYTE
without prior notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, translated, transmit-
ted, orpublished in any form or by any means without GIGABYTE's prior written permission.
Documentation Classifications
In order to assist in the use of this product, GIGABYTE provides the following types of
documentations:
For quick set-up of the product, read the Quick Installation Guide included with the product.
For detailed product information, carefully read the User's Manual.
Example:
-4-
Chapter 5 Appendix.......................................................................................................77
5-1 Configuring SATA Hard Drive(s)..................................................................... 77
5-1-1 Configuring SATA Controllers.................................................................................77
5-1-2 Installing the SATA RAID/AHCI Driver and Operating System............................. 85
5-2 Configuring Audio Input and Output............................................................... 88
5-2-1 Configuring 2/5.1-Channel Audio.......................................................................... 88
5-2-2 Creative Software Suite......................................................................................... 88
5-2-3 Configuring S/PDIF Out..........................................................................................92
5-2-4 Configuring Audio Recording.................................................................................93
5-2-5 Using the Sound Recorder.................................................................................... 95
5-3 Troubleshooting.............................................................................................. 96
5-3-1 Frequently Asked Questions ................................................................................ 96
5-3-2 Troubleshooting Procedure....................................................................................97
5-4 Regulatory Statements................................................................................... 99
-5-
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.
Optional Items
2-port USB 2.0 bracket (Part No. 12CR1-1UB030-5*R)
2-port SATA power cable (Part No. 12CF1-2SERPW-0*R)
3.5" Front Panel with 2 USB 3.0/2.0 ports (Part No. 12CR1-FPX582-0*R)
-6-
SYS_FAN3 CPU_FAN
KB_MB_USB
ATX_12V
DVI VGA
LGA1155
DP_HDMI ATX
USB_ESATA
USB30_LAN
F_USB30
AUDIO BAT DDR3_4
G1.Sniper M3 DDR3_2 SYS_FAN2
PCIEX16
DDR3_1
DDR3_3
Intel PCIEX1
GbE LAN SATA3 1 0
M_BIOS Intel® Z77
PCIEX4 B_BIOS
SATA2 3 2
Super I/O
CODEC
PCIEX8
iTE
SYS_FAN1
CLR_CMOS
F_AUDIO F_USB1
SATA2 4
F_USB3 F_PANEL
TPM F_USB2
-7-
x16 x8
DMI 2.0
FDI
Switch
Dual BIOS
10 USB 2.0/1.1
LPC Bus
iTE
CREATIVE Super I/O
PS/2 KB/Mouse
CA0132
HP Out
Surround Speaker Out
Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out
Line Out
MIC/Line In
S/PDIF Out
Hardware Installation - 10 -
- 11 - Hardware Installation
*G
IGABYTE reserves the right to make any changes to the product specifications and product-related information without
prior notice.
Hardware Installation - 12 -
LGA1155 CPU
Notch Notch
- 13 - Hardware Installation
Before installing the CPU, make sure to turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from
the power outlet to prevent damage to the CPU.
Step 1: Step 2:
Gently press the CPU socket lever handle down Remove the CPU socket cover as shown. Hold
and away from the socket with your finger. Then your index finger down on the rear grip of the
completely lift the CPU socket lever and the metal socket cover and use your thumb to lift up the
load plate will be lifted as well. front edge (next to the "REMOVE" mark) and
then remove the cover. (DO NOT touch socket
contacts. To protect the CPU socket, always
replace the protective socket cover when the CPU
is not installed.)
Step 3: Step 4:
Hold the CPU with your thumb and index fingers. Once the CPU is properly inserted, use one hand
Align the CPU pin one marking (triangle) with the to hold the socket lever and use the other to lightly
pin one corner of the CPU socket (or you may align replace the load plate. When replacing the load
the CPU notches with the socket alignment keys) plate, make sure the front end of the load plate is
and gently insert the CPU into position. under the shoulder screw.
Step 5: NOTE:
Push the CPU socket lever back into its locked Hold the CPU socket lever by the handle, not the
position. lever base portion.
Hardware Installation - 14 -
Male
Push Pin
Direction of
the Arrow Sign The Top
on the Male of Female
Push Pin Push Pin
Female
Push Pin
Step 1: Step 2:
Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on Before installing the cooler, note the direction of the
the surface of the installed CPU. arrow sign on the male push pin. (Turning the
push pin along the direction of arrow is to remove
the cooler, on the contrary, is to install.)
Step 3: Step 4:
Place the cooler atop the CPU, aligning the You should hear a "click" when pushing down each
four push pins through the pin holes on the push pin. Check that the Male and Female push
motherboard. Push down on the push pins pins are joined closely.
diagonally. (Refer to your CPU cooler installation manual for
instructions on installing the cooler.)
Step 5: Step 6:
After the installation, check the back of the Finally, attach the power connector of the CPU
motherboard. If the push pin is inserted as cooler to the CPU fan header (CPU_FAN) on the
the picture above shows, the installation is motherboard.
complete.
Use extreme care when removing the CPU cooler because the thermal grease/tape between the
CPU cooler and CPU may adhere to the CPU. Inadequately removing the CPU cooler may damage
the CPU.
- 15 - Hardware Installation
The four DDR3 memory sockets are divided into two channels and each channel has two memory sockets as
following:
Channel A: DDR3_2, DDR3_4
Channel B: DDR3_1, DDR3_3
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 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. 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.
Hardware Installation - 16 -
Notch
DDR3 DIMM
A DDR3 memory module has a notch, so it can only fit in one direction. Follow the steps below to correctly install
your memory modules in the memory sockets.
Step 1:
Note the orientation of the memory module. Spread the retaining clips
at both ends of the memory socket. Place the memory module on the
socket. As indicated in the picture on the left, place your fingers on
the top edge of the memory, push down on the memory and insert it
vertically into the memory socket.
Step 2:
The clips at both ends of the socket will snap into place when the
memory module is securely inserted.
- 17 - Hardware Installation
Follow the steps below to correctly install your expansion card in the expansion slot.
1. Locate an expansion slot that supports your card. Remove the metal slot cover from the chassis back
panel.
2. Align the card with the slot, and press down on the card until it is fully seated in the slot.
3. Make sure the metal contacts on the card are completely inserted into the slot.
4. Secure the card's metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw.
5. After installing all expansion cards, replace the chassis cover(s).
6. Turn on your computer. If necessary, go to BIOS Setup to make any required BIOS changes for your
expansion card(s).
7. Install the driver provided with the expansion card in your operating system.
Hardware Installation - 18 -
Step 2:
Insert the CrossFireX(Note)/SLI bridge connectors in the CrossFireX/SLI gold edge connectors on top of the
cards.
Step 3:
Plug the display cable into the graphics card on the PCIEX16 slot.
(Note) The bridge connector(s) may be needed or not depending on your graphics cards.
Procedure and driver screen for enabling CrossFireX/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 CrossFireX/SLI technology.
- 19 - Hardware Installation
(Note) The DVI-D port does not support D-Sub connection by adapter.
•• When removing the cable connected to a back panel connector, first 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.
Hardware Installation - 20 -
- 21 - Hardware Installation
Hardware Installation - 22 -
1 4 3
5 4
11
6
7
9 12 10 13 8 7
1) ATX_12V 8) F_PANEL
2) ATX 9) F_AUDIO
3) CPU_FAN 10) F_USB1/F_USB2/F_USB3
4) SYS_FAN1/2/3 11) F_USB30
5) BAT 12) TPM
6) SATA3 0/1 13) CLR_CMOS
7) SATA2 2/3/4
- 23 - Hardware Installation
4 2 ATX_12V:
Pin No. Definition
1 GND
3 1 2 GND
ATX_12V 3 +12V
4 +12V
ATX:
Pin No. Definition Pin No. Definition
12 24
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
9 5VSB (stand by +5V) 21 +5V
10 +12V 22 +5V
11 +12V (Only for 2x12-pin 23 +5V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX)
ATX)
1 13 12 3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin 24 GND (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX) ATX)
ATX
Hardware Installation - 24 -
•• 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.
- 25 - Hardware Installation
DEBUG
PORT
•• A RAID 0 or RAID 1 configuration 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 configuration requires at least three hard drives. (The total number of hard drives does
not have to be an even number.)
•• A RAID 10 configuration requires four hard drives.
DEBUG
PORT
(Note) When a RAID set is built across the SATA 6Gb/s and SATA 3Gb/s channels, the system performance
of the RAID set may vary depending on the devices being connected.
Hardware Installation - 26 -
MSG+
PW+
SPEAK+
SPEAK-
MSG-
PW-
2 20
1 19
RES+
CI+
PWR+
PWR-
HD-
RES-
CI-
HD+
Hard Drive Reset Power LED
Activity LED Switch
Chassis Intrusion
Header
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.
- 27 - Hardware Installation
Some chassis provide a front panelBIOS audio module that has separated connectors on each wire
Switcher (X58A-OC)
instead
DB_PORTof a single plug. For information about connecting the front panel audio module that has
different wire assignments, please contact the chassis manufacturer.
1
M_SATA
1
1
ACPI_CPT
Voltage measurement module(X58A-OC) (GA-IVB)
The headers conform to USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Each USB header can provide two USB ports via an
DIP
1 2 3
DIP
optional USB bracket. For purchasing the optionalDIPUSB bracket, please contact the local dealer.
1 2 3
SMB_CPT
DIP
1 2 3
Pin No. Definition (GA-IVB)
PCIe power connector (SATA)(X58A-OC) 1 Power (5V)
2 Power (5V)
9 1
3 USB DX-
10 2
4 USB DY-
CLR_CMOS
5 USB DX+ CI
6 USB DY+ DIS_ME
GP15_CPT
7 GND (GA-IVB)
8 GND
9 No Pin
10 NC XDP_CPU
Voltage measurement points(G1.Sniper 3) BIOS Switcher (SW4) XDP_PCH
(GA-IVB)
When the system is in S4/S5 mode, only the USB ports routed to the F_USB1 header can support
the ON/OFF Charge function.
•• Do not plug the IEEE 1394 bracket (2x5-pin) cable into the USB 2.0/1.1 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.
Hardware Installation - 28 -
1
1
1 20 7 GND 17 SSRX2+ 1
1
8 D1- 18 SSRX2-
9 D1+ 19 VBUS
10 NC Voltage measurementNo
20 Pin
module(X58A-OC)
TPM
PWM Switch (X58A-O
Prior to installing the USB front panel, be sure to turn off your computer and unplug the power cord
w/housing 1 2 3
F_USB30
DIP
from the power outlet to prevent damage to the USB front panel. F_AUDIO(H)
1 2 3
DIP
DIP
1 2 3
DIP
1 2 3
BIOS Switc
DB_PORT
1
1
Voltage measurement points(G1.Sniper 3) BIOS Switcher (SW4)
DIP
20 2
DIP
- 29 - Hardware Installation
Open: Normal
•• Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before clearing
the CMOS values.
•• After system restart, go to BIOS Setup to load factory defaults (select Load Optimized
Defaults) or manually configure the BIOS settings (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," for BIOS
configurations).
Hardware Installation - 30 -
When the power is turned off, the battery on the motherboard supplies the necessary power to the CMOS to
keep the configuration 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.
For instructions on using the Q-Flash and @BIOS utilities, refer to Chapter 4, "BIOS Update Utilities."
•• Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, if you do not encounter problems using the current
version of BIOS, it is recommended that you not flash the BIOS. To flash the BIOS, do it with
caution. Inadequate BIOS flashing 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.)
- 31 - BIOS Setup
Function Keys
Function Keys:
<DEL>: BIOS SETUP\Q-FLASH
Press the <Delete> key to enter BIOS Setup or to access the Q-Flash utility in BIOS Setup.
<F9>: SYSTEM INFORMATION
Press the <F9> key to display your system information.
<F12>: BOOT MENU
Boot Menu allows you to set the first boot device without entering BIOS Setup. In Boot Menu, use the up
arrow key <h> or the down arrow key <i> to select the first boot device, then press <Enter> to accept.
The system will boot from the device immediately.
Note: The setting in Boot Menu is effective for one time only. After system restart, the device boot order
will still be based on BIOS Setup settings.
<END>: Q-FLASH
Press the <End> key to access the Q-Flash utility directly without having to enter BIOS Setup first.
BIOS Setup - 32 -
Setup Menus
Help
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.
BIOS Setup - 34 -
Whether the system will work stably with the overclock/overvoltage settings you made is dependent
on your overall system configurations. 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.
- 35 - BIOS Setup
BIOS Setup - 36 -
(Note) This item is present only when you install a CPU that supports this feature. For more information about
Intel CPUs' unique features, please visit Intel's website.
- 37 - BIOS Setup
(Note 1) This item is present only when you install a CPU that supports this feature. For more information about
Intel CPUs' unique features, please visit Intel's website.
(Note 2) This item is present only when you install a CPU and a memory module that support this feature.
BIOS Setup - 38 -
&& Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) (Note), System Memory Multiplier (SPD), Memory
Frequency(Mhz)
The settings under the three items above are synchronous to those under the same items on the Advanced
Frequency Settings menu.
&& Performance Enhance
Allows the system to operate at three different performance levels.
Normal Lets the system operate at its basic performance level.
Turbo Lets the system operate at its good performance level. (Default)
Extreme Lets the system operate at its best performance level.
&& DRAM Timing Selectable
Quick and Expert allows the Channel Interleaving, Rank Interleaving, and memory timing settings below
to be configurable. Options are: Auto (default), Quick, Expert.
&& Profile DDR Voltage
When using a non-XMP memory module or Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) is set to Disabled, this item
will display as 1.50V. When Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) is set to Profile1 or Profile2, this item will
display the value based on the SPD data on the XMP memory.
&& Profile VTT Voltage
The value displayed here is dependent on the CPU being used.
&& 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 configure 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
configure this setting. (Default: Auto)
(Note) This item is present only when you install a CPU and a memory module that support this feature.
- 39 - BIOS Setup
This sub-menu provides memory timing settings for each channel of memory. The respective timing setting
screens are configurable only when DRAM Timing Selectable is set to Quick or Expert. 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.
BIOS Setup - 40 -
- 41 - BIOS Setup
BIOS Setup - 42 -
- 43 - BIOS Setup
BIOS Setup - 44 -
This section provides information on your CPU, memory, motherboard model, and BIOS version. You can also
select the default language used by the BIOS and manually set the system time.
- 45 - BIOS Setup
BIOS Setup - 46 -
To cancel the password, press <Enter> on the password item and when requested for the password, enter the
correct one first. When prompted for a new password, press <Enter> without entering any password. Press
<Enter> again when prompted to confirm.
(Note) This item is present only when you install a CPU that supports this feature. For more information about
Intel CPUs' unique features, please visit Intel's website.
- 47 - BIOS Setup
- 49 - BIOS Setup
BIOS Setup - 50 -
&& AC BACK
Determines the state of the system after the return of power from an AC power loss.
Always Off The system stays off upon the return of the AC power. (Default)
Always On The system is turned on upon the return of the AC power.
Memory The system returns to its last known awake state upon the return of the AC power.
&& Power On By Keyboard
Allows the system to be turned on by a PS/2 keyboard wake-up event.
Note: To use this function, you need an ATX power supply providing at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
Disabled Disables this function. (Default)
Any Key Press any key to turn on the system.
Keyboard 98 Press POWER button on the Windows 98 keyboard to turn on the system.
&& Resume by Alarm
Determines whether to power on the system at a desired time. (Default: Disabled)
If enabled, set the date and time as following:
Wake up day: Turn on the system at a specific time on each day or on a specific day in a month.
Wake up hour/minute/second: Set the time at which the system will be powered on automatically.
Note: When using this function, avoid inadequate shutdown from the operating system or removal of the
AC power, or the settings may not be effective.
&& Wake on LAN
Enables or disables the wake on LAN function. (Default: Enabled)
&& ErP
Determines whether to let the system consume less than 1W power in S5 (shutdown) state. (Default:
Disabled)
Note: When this item is set to Enabled, the following functions will become unavailable: PME event wake
up, power on by mouse, power on by keyboard, and wake on LAN.
- 51 - BIOS Setup
BIOS Setup - 52 -
- 53 - BIOS Setup
After inserting the driver disk, "Xpress Install" will automatically scan your system and then list all the drivers
that are recommended to install. You can click the Install All button and "Xpress Install" will install all the
recommended drivers. Or click Install Single Items to manually select the drivers you wish to install.
•• Please ignore the popup dialog box(es) (e.g. the Found New Hardware Wizard) displayed
when "Xpress Install" is installing the drivers. Failure to do so may affect the driver installation.
•• Some device drivers will restart your system automatically during the driver installation. After the
system restart, "Xpress Install" will continue to install other drivers.
•• After "Xpress Install" installs all of the drivers, a dialog box will appear asking whether to install
new GIGABYTE utilities. Click Yes to automatically install the utilities. Or click No if you want to
manually select the utilities to install on the Application Software page later.
- 55 - Drivers Installation
Drivers Installation - 56 -
3-5 System
This page provides the basic system information.
- 57 - Drivers Installation
Drivers Installation - 58 -
Step 1: Step 2:
Click Drive options. Click New.
(Note) Xpress Recovery2 checks the first physical hard drive in the following sequence: The first SATA connector,
the second SATA connector and so forth. For example, When hard drives are attached to the first and
third SATA connectors, the hard drive on the first SATA connector is the first physical drive.
- 59 - Unique Features
Step 5:
Xpress Recovery2 will save the backup file to the unallocated
space (black stripe along the top). Please note that if there is no
enough unallocated space, Xpress Recovery2 cannot save the
backup file.
Step 1: Step 2:
Select BACKUP to start backing up your hard drive When finished, go to Disk Management to check
data. disk allocation.
Unique Features - 60 -
Step 1: Step 2:
If you wish to remove the backup file, select After the backup file is removed, no backup image file
REMOVE. will be present in Disk Management and hard drive
space will be freed up.
- 61 - Unique Features
What is DualBIOS™?
Motherboards that support DualBIOS have two BIOS onboard, a main BIOS and
a backup BIOS. Normally, the system works on the main BIOS. However, if the
main BIOS is corrupted or damaged, the backup BIOS will take over on the next system boot and copy the
BIOS file to the main BIOS to ensure normal system operation. For the sake of system safety, users cannot
update the backup BIOS manually.
What is Q-Flash™?
With Q-Flash you can update the system BIOS without having to enter operating
systems like MS-DOS or Window first. Embedded in the BIOS, the Q-Flash tool
frees you from the hassles of going through complicated BIOS flashing process.
What is @BIOS™?
@BIOS allows you to update the system BIOS while in the Windows environment.
@BIOS will download the latest BIOS file from the nearest @BIOS server site
and update the BIOS.
Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, please do it with caution. Inadequate BIOS flashing may
result in system malfunction.
Unique Features - 62 -
Step 1:
1. Insert the USB flash drive containing the BIOS file into the computer. In the main menu of Q-Flash, select
Update BIOS From Drive.
•• The Save BIOS to Drive option allows you to save the current BIOS file.
•• Q-Flash only supports USB flash drive or hard drives using FAT32/16/12 file system.
•• If the BIOS update file is saved to a hard drive in RAID/AHCI mode or a hard drive attached to
an independent SATA controller, use the <End> key during the POST to access Q-Flash.
Step 2:
The process of the system reading the BIOS file from the USB flash drive is displayed on the screen. When
the message "Are you sure to update BIOS?" appears, select Yes to begin the BIOS update. The monitor will
display the update process.
•• Do not turn off or restart the system when the system is reading/updating the BIOS.
•• Do not remove the USB flash drive or hard drive when the system is updating the BIOS.
Step 3:
When the update process is complete, select Reboot to reboot the system.
Q-Flash
- 63 - Unique Features
Step 5:
Select Save & Exit Setup and press <Enter>. And then select Yes to save settings to CMOS and exit BIOS
Setup. The procedure is complete after the system restarts.
Unique Features - 64 -
B. Using @BIOS
Make sure that the BIOS file to be flashed matches your motherboard model. Updating the
BIOS with an incorrect BIOS file could cause your system not to boot.
- 65 - Unique Features
Tabs Information
Tab Function
The CPU tab provides information on the installed CPU and motherboard.
The Memory tab provides information on the installed memory module(s). You can select memory
module on a specific slot to see its information.
The Tuner tab allows you to change memory settings and voltages.
•• Quick Boost mode provides you with 3 levels of CPU frequency/base clock to choose to
achieve desired system performance.
After making changes in Quick Boost mode or clicking Default to restore to default values, be
sure to restart your system for these changes to take effect.
•• Easy mode provides information on CPU/memory.
•• Advanced mode allows you to individually change system clock settings and voltages settings
using the sliders.
•• Save allows you to save the current settings to a new profile (.txt file).
•• Load allows you to load previous settings from a profile.
After making changes in Easy mode/Advanced mode, be sure to click Set for these changes to take
effect or click Default to restore to default values.
The button automatically provides you with the fastest and most stable frequency to
enhance system performance.
The Graphics tab allows you to change the core clock and memory clock for your AMD or NVIDIA
graphics card.
The Smart tab allows you to specify a Smart Fan mode. Smart Fan Advanced mode allows the fan
speed to be changed linearly based on the temperature thresholds you set.
The HW Monitor tab allows you to monitor hardware temperature, voltage and fan speed and set
temperature/fan speed alarm. You can choose the alert sound from the buzzer or use your own sound
file (.wav file).
Available functions in EasyTune 6 may differ by motherboard model. Grayed-out area(s) indicates that the item is not
configurable or the function is not supported.
Incorrectly doing overclock/overvoltage may result in damage to the hardware components such as CPU, chipset, and
memory and reduce the useful life of these components. Before you do the overclock/overvoltage, make sure that you
fully know each function of EasyTune 6, or system instability or other unexpected results may occur.
Unique Features - 66 -
Options Descriptions
Option Description
Connect ... Displays the computers with data sharing enabled
Enable Incoming Folder ... Enables data sharing
Disable Incoming Folder ... Disables data sharing
Open Incoming Folder : Accesses the shared data folder
C:\Q-ShareFolder
Change Incoming Folder : Changes the data folder to be shared (Note)
C:\Q-ShareFolder
Update Q-Share ... Updates Q-Share online
About Q-Share ... Displays the current Q-Share version
Exit... Exits Q-Share
(Note) This option is available only when data sharing is NOT enabled.
- 67 - Unique Features
(Note 1) The X.H.D utility only supports the SATA controllers integrated in the Intel Chipset.
(Note 2) It is recommended that before you run the X.H.D utility, back up all of your data to avoid risk of hardware
damage or lost of data.
(Note 3) If you manually build a non-RAID 0 array, you'll not be able to automatically set up a RAID 0 array
later using the Auto function.
Unique Features - 68 -
(Note 1) If your cell phone has been configured as the Auto Green key, you'll not be able to use it to connect to other Bluetooth
device(s) when Auto Green is enabled.
(Note 2) Whether the Bluetooth dongle is included depends on the motherboard models. Before installing the Bluetooth
dongle, be sure to turn off other Bluetooth receiver on your computer.
- 69 - Unique Features
Figure 2
Figure 1
C. Launching DiskPart Disk Partitioning Tool to Set up Intel Rapid Start Store Partition
Open the command prompt window and run diskpart.exe (enter "diskpart" at the C:\> command prompt
and press <Enter>). At the diskpart prompt, type the following commands in sequence. Note: The commands for
MBR format and GPT format are different. Refer to the commands below. After entering all of the commands,
be sure to restart your computer.
MBR format:
Unique Features - 70 -
GPT format:
Follow the commands for MBR format. When you execute the last command where you change the partition
type (set id="XXX"), enter the following command instead (Figure 4):
DISKPART>set id=D3BFE2DE-3DAF-11DF-BA40-E3A556D89593
You have created the Intel Rapid Start Technology store partition after completing the commands above.
Restart your computer.
Figure 3
Figure 4
- 71 - Unique Features
A. System Requirements
1. Intel Smart Connect Technology enabled in BIOS Setup
2. Windows 7 with SP1
3. Normal network connection
Step 2:
As shown in the left screenshot below, click the Start button and type regedit in the search field to open
the registry editor. Look for the following directory in the registry editor:
Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Intel\Intel Smart Connect Technology
Right-click on Intel Smart Connect Technology and select New > Key. Type OEM.
(Note) Intel Smart Connect Technology is for S3 mode only. During the updating process, the monitor will not
light up and no sound will be output from the speaker. This feature works best with programs designed
to work automatically with the Internet to obtain their data such as Microsoft Outlook®, Microsoft
Windows Live™ Mail, and Seesmic®.
Unique Features - 72 -
Step 4:
After completing the steps above, go to Start\All Programs\Intel and launch Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology.
On the Intel® Smart Connect Technology Configuration menu, click Enable Updating on the Basic tab.
(The Enable Updating button has now changed to Disable Updating.)
The Advanced tab allows you to set the time period during
which the updates will be performed only every two hours (such
as when you are asleep).
- 73 - Unique Features
Make sure the Intel Rapid Storage Technology driver version is 11.0 or above.
Step 2:
Find the IRST icon in the notification area and double-click it to open the Intel Rapid Storage Technology
utility.
Step 3:
On the main screen, click the Accelerate button and then click Enable acceleration.
(Note 1) The SSD works as a cache of the hard disk. The maximum cache memory size is 64 GB. If you use
an SSD larger than 64 GB, the space beyond 64 GB can still be used for storing your data.
(Note 2) The operating system must be installed to the SATA disk.
Unique Features - 74 -
- 75 - Unique Features
(Note 1) Skip this step if you do not want to create RAID array on the SATA controller.
(Note 2) Required when the SATA controller is set to AHCI or RAID mode.
(Note 3) When a RAID set is built across the SATA 6Gb/s and SATA 3Gb/s channels, the system performance
of the RAID set may vary depending on the devices being connected.
- 77 - Appendix
Step 1:
Turn on your computer and press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup during the POST (Power-On Self-Test). To
create RAID, set SATA Mode Selection under the Peripherals menu to RAID (Figure 1). If you do not want to
create RAID, set this item to IDE or AHCI.
Figure 1
Step 2:
Save changes and exit BIOS Setup.
The BIOS Setup menus described in this section may differ from the exact settings for your motherboard.
The actual BIOS Setup menu options you will see shall depend on the motherboard you have and
the BIOS version.
Appendix - 78 -
Step 1:
After the POST memory test begins and before the operating system boot begins, look for a message which
says "Press <Ctrl-I> to enter Configuration Utility" (Figure 2). Press <Ctrl> + <I> to enter the RAID Configuration
Utility.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 11.0.0.1339
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
RAID Volumes :
None defined.
Physical Devices :
ID Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
Figure 2
Step 2:
After you press <Ctrl> + <I>, the MAIN MENU screen will appear (Figure 3).
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
None defined.
Physical Deivces :
ID Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
Figure 3
- 79 - Appendix
Figure 4
Step 4:
Under Disks item, select the hard drives to be included in the RAID array. If only two hard drives are installed,
they will be automatically assigned to the array. Set the stripe block size (Figure 5) if necessary. The stripe block
size can be set from 4 KB to 128 KB. Once you have selected the stripe block size, press <Enter>.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 11.0.0.1339
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : RAID0(Stripe)
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : 128KB
Capacity : 111.7 GB
Sync : N/A
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
The following are typical values:
RAID0 - 128KB
RAID10 - 64KB
RAID5 - 64KB
Figure 5
Appendix - 80 -
Figure 6
When completed, you can see detailed information about the RAID array in the DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION
section, including the RAID level, stripe block size, array name, and array capacity, etc. (Figure 7)
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 11.0.0.1339
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]
1. Create RAID Volume 4. Recovery Volume Options
2. Delete RAID Volume 5. Acceleration Options
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID 6. Exit
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
ID Name Level Strip Size Status Bootable
0 Volume0 RAID0(Stripe) 128KB 223.6GB Normal Yes
Physical Devices :
ID Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Member Disk(0)
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Member Disk(0)
Figure 7
To exit the RAID BIOS utility, press <Esc> or select 6. Exit in MAIN MENU.
Now, you can proceed to install the SATA RAID/AHCI driver and operating system.
- 81 - Appendix
Step 1:
Select Create RAID Volume in MAIN MENU and press <Enter> (Figure 8).
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 11.0.0.1339
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]
1. Create RAID Volume 4. Recovery Volume Options
2. Delete RAID Volume 5. Acceleration Options
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID 6. Exit
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
None defined.
Physical Disks :
ID Drive Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3120026AS 3JT329JX 111.7GB Non-RAID Disk
Figure 8
Step 2:
After entering the volume name, select Recovery under the RAID Level item and press <Enter> (Figure 9).
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 11.0.0.1339
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : Recovery
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : N/A
Capacity : 0.0 GB
Sync : Continuous
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
Figure 9
Appendix - 82 -
Figure 10
Step 4:
Under Sync, select Continuous or On Request (Figure 11). When set to Continuous, changes made to the
data on the master drive will be automatically and continuously copied to the recovery drive when both hard
drives are installed in the system. On Request allows users to update data from the master drive to the recovery
drive manually using the Intel Rapid Storage Technology utility in the operating system. On Request also allows
users to restore the master drive to a previous state.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 11.0.0.1339
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name : Volume0
RAID Level : Recovery
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : N/A
Capacity : 0.0 GB
Sync : Continuous
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
Figure 11
Step 5:
Finally press <Enter> on the Create Volume item to begin creating the Recovery Volume and follow the on-
screen instructions to complete.
- 83 - Appendix
Figure 12
Acceleration Options
This option allows you to view the status of your accelerated drive/volume (Figure 13) created using the Intel
IRST utility. In case you are unable to run the Intel IRST utility due to an application error or operating system
issue, you will need to remove acceleration or manually enable synchronization (Maximized mode only) using
this option in the RAID ROM utility.
Steps:
Select Acceleration Options in MAIN MENU and press <Enter>.
To remove the acceleration, select the accelerated drive/volume, press <R>, and press <Y> to confirm.
To synchronize data from the cache device to the accelerated drive/volume, press <S> and press <Y> to
confirm.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - 11.0.0.1339
Copyright(C) 2003-11 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ ACCELERATION OPTIONS ]
Name Type Capacity Mode Status
DISK PORT 3 Non-RAID Disk 74.5GB Enhanced In Sync
[ HELP ]
Press 's' to synchronize data from the cache device to
the Accelerated Disk/Volume
Figure 13
Appendix - 84 -
A. Installing Windows 7
As Windows 7 already include Intel SATA RAID/AHCI driver, you do not need to install separate RAID/AHCI
driver during the Windows installation process. After the operating system is installed, we recommend that you
install all required drivers from the motherboard driver disk using "Xpress Install" to ensure system performance
and compatibility.
B. Rebuilding an Array
Rebuilding is the process of restoring data to a hard drive from other drives in the array. Rebuilding applies only
to fault-tolerant arrays such as RAID 1, RAID 5 or RAID 10 arrays. The procedures below assume a new drive
is added to replace a failed drive to rebuild a RAID 1 array. (Note: The new drive must have equal or greater
capacity than the old one.)
Turn off your computer and replace the failed hard drive with a new one. Restart your computer.
- 85 - Appendix
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
ID Name Level Strip Size Status Bootable
0 Volume0 RAID1(Mirror) N/A 111.7GB Rebuild Yes
Physical Devices :
ID Devices Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3120026AS 3JT354CP 111.7GB Member Disk (0)
1 WDC WD800JD-22LS WD-WMAM9W736333 111.7GB Member Disk (0)
Volumes with "Rebuild" status will be rebuilt within the operating system.
Step 2:
Select a new drive to rebuild the RAID and click
Rebuild.
Step 1:
Go to the Manage menu and click Rebuild to
another disk in Manage Volume.
Appendix - 86 -
Step 3:
Click Yes to begin the data recovery.
Step 2:
Go to the Manage menu of the Intel Rapid Storage
Technology utility and click Recover data in
Manage Volume.
Creative Alchemy
Through the Creative Alchemy, you can enable EAX effects for your games to obtain the most realistic gaming
experience.
Step:
Go to Start\All Programs\Creative\Alchemy to launch
Creative Alchemy. On the left panel, select the game for
which you want to enable the EAX effects and add it to
the right panel. You will see the EAX effects are enabled
when the game is launched.
Appendix - 88 -
CRYSTALVOICE:
This page allows you to select a recording device and
adjust microphone volume/boost and related settings. It
also allows you to configure CrystalVoice features.
• FX:
Morphs your voice into different characters and
accents.
• Smart Volume:
Automatically adjusts the loudness of the
speaker's voice to maintain a consistent volume
level.
• Noise Reduction:
Eliminates unwanted background noise in your
conversations.
• Acoustic Echo Cancellation:
Eliminates echoes that interfere with your
conversation.
- 89 - Appendix
SPEAKERS/HEADPHONES:
This page allows you to set the output device to
speakers or headphones and set up your speaker/
headphone configurations. (Note: Speakers and
headphones cannot be used at the same time. When
the headphone function is selected, the sound will
come out only from the front line out or rear headphone
jack.)
Speaker/Headphone Configurations:
Depending on the connected devices, you can select
5.1 Surround, Stereo, or Headphones. If a 5.1-
channel configuration is set, you can cancel or open a
specific speaker manually.
MIXER:
This page allows you to increase or decrease the
playback and recording volumes for your input/output
device.
Appendix - 90 -
ADVANCED FEATURES:
This page allows you to play stereo mix to digital output.
You can output the mixed audio signals simultaneously
to the speakers and S/PDIF out to obtain 2-channel
sound.
(Note: When using this feature, the default playback
device must be set to Speaker, not SPDIF Out in
Windows Control Panel.
Other Features:
The Profile button allows you to save your settings
on the SPEAKERS/HEADPHONES, MIXER, or
ADVANCED FEATURES page to a profile. You can
export your custom settings and share them with others
or import others' custom settings.
(Note) For more information on Sound Blaster Recon3Di, please visit the CREATIVE website.
- 91 - Appendix
The S/PDIF Out jack can transmit audio signals to an external decoder for decoding to get the best audio
quality.
Step 2:
On the Playback tab, right-click on SPDIF Out, select
Set as Default Device, and then open the Properties
dialog box.
Step 3:
You can go to the Supported Formats tab to select the
formats to be decoded or the Advanced tab to select the
sample rate and bit depth.
Appendix - 92 -
Step 2:
To hear the sound being recorded during the recording
process, it is recommended that you set the Mic volume
at a middle level. Do not mute the recording volume,
or you'll not be able to record the sound. To raise the
recording and playback volume for the microphone,
use the Mic Boost slider and set the microphone
boost level.
- 93 - Appendix
Step 3:
On the Recording tab, right-click on Line-In, and select
Set as Default Device.
Step 2:
On the Recording tab, right-click on What U Hear and
select Set as Default Device.
Appendix - 94 -
A. Recording Sound
1. Make sure you have connected the sound input device (e.g. microphone) to the computer.
2. To record the audio, click the Start Recording button .
3. To stop recording audio, click the Stop Recording button .
Be sure to save the recorded audio file upon completion.
- 95 - Appendix
Q: Why is the light of my keyboard/optical mouse still on after the computer shuts down?
A: Some motherboards provide a small amount of standby power after the computer shuts down and that's why the light is still
on.
Q: Why do I still get a weak sound even though I have turned my speaker to the maximum volume?
A: Make sure your speaker is equipped with an internal amplifier. If not, try a speaker with power/amplifier.
Appendix - 96 -
If you encounter any troubles during system startup, follow the troubleshooting procedure below to solve the
problem.
START
Turn off the power. Remove all peripherals, connecting cables, and
power cord etc.
Make sure the motherboard does not short-circuit with the chassis or Yes
Isolate the short circuit.
other metal objects.
Insert the graphics card. Connect the ATX main power cable and the
12V power cable. Turn on the power to start the computer.
Make sure the graphics card is securely seated in the
expansion slot and power connectors are firmly attached.
(Continued...)
- 97 - Appendix
Turn off the computer. Plug in the keyboard and mouse and restart
the computer.
END
If the procedure above is unable to solve your problem, contact the place of purchase or local dealer
for help. Or go to the Support & Downloads\Technical Support page to submit your question. Our
customer service staff will reply you as soon as possible.
Appendix - 98 -
Finally, we suggest that you practice other environmentally friendly actions by understanding and using the
energy-saving features of this product (where applicable), recycling the inner and outer packaging (including
shipping containers) this product was delivered in, and by disposing of or recycling used batteries properly.
With your help, we can reduce the amount of natural resources needed to produce electrical and electronic
equipment, minimize the use of landfills for the disposal of "end of life" products, and generally improve our
quality of life by ensuring that potentially hazardous substances are not released into the environment and are
disposed of properly.
- 99 - Appendix
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- 103 - Appendix
Appendix - 104 -