Preface Copyright This publication, including all photographs, illustrations and software, is protected under international copyright laws, with all rights reserved. Neither this manual, nor any of the material contained herein, may be reproduced without written consent of the author. Version 1.0 Disclaimer The information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Declaration of Conformity This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
About the Manual The manual consists of the following: Chapter 1 Introducing the Motherboard Describes features of the motherboard. page 1 Chapter 2 Installing the Motherboard Describes installation of motherboard components. page 7 Chapter 3 Using BIOS Provides information on page 29 using the BIOS Setup Utility. Chapter 4 Describes the motherboard page 69 Using the Motherboard Software software. Describes the AMD Crossfire TM Technology.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface i Chapter 1 1 Introducing the Motherboard 1 Introduction...................................................................................1 Pakage Contents............................................................................1 Specifications................................................................................2 Motherboard Components..........................................................4 I/O Ports.............................................................
Chapter 4 69 Using the Motherboard Software 69 Auto-installing under Windows 7/8............................................69 Running Setup.........................................................................69 Manual Installation..........................................................................71 ECS Utility Software (Intelligent EZ Utility).....................................71 Chapter 5 75 AMD CrossFireTM Technology Support 75 Requirements...............................................
Introduction Chapter 1 Chapter 1 Introducing the Motherboard Thank you for choosing the Z87H3-A3X motherboard. This motherboard is a high performance, enhanced function motherboard designed to support the LGA1150 socket for Intel® 4th Generation CoreTM Family processors. This motherboard is based on Intel® Z87 Express Chipset for best desktop platform solution. It supports up to 32 GB of system memory with dual channel DDR3 3000+(OC)/2133(OC)/1866(OC)/1600/1333 MHz.
Chapter 1 Specifications CPU • • LGA1150 socket for Intel ® 4 th Generation Core TM Family processors Supports CPU up to 84W, TDP up to 125W Note: Please go to ECS website for the latest CPU support list. Chipset • Intel ® Z87 Chipset Memory • • • Dual-channel DDR3 memory architecture 4 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets support up to 32 GB Supports DDR3 3000+(OC)/2133(OC)/1866(OC)/1600/1333 MHz SDRAM Note: Please go to ECS website for the latest Memory support list.
6 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors* x SPDIF out header x Front Panel audio header x Front Panel switch/LED header x COM header x CLR_CMOS jumper x Parallel port header (LPT) x Trusted platform module header (TPM) x Speaker header x Case open header Chapter 1 • • • • • • • • • • Note: *The gray SATA3_6 connector will become unavailable when eSATA connector is used.
Chapter 1 4 Motherboard Components Z87H3-A3X USER MANUAL
LABEL COMPONENTS 1. CPU Socket LGA1150 socket for Intel® 4th Generation CoreTM Family processors 2. CPU_FAN 2 4-pin CPU cooling fan connector 3. CPU_FAN 1 4-pin CPU cooling fan connector 4. DDR3_1~4 240-pin DDR3 Module slots 5. ATX_POWER Standard 24-pin ATX power connector 6. SYS_FAN3 3-pin system cooling fan connector 7. USB3F Front panel USB 3.0 header 8. SATA3_1~SATA3_6*2 Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors 9. SYS_FAN2 4-pin system cooling fan connector 10. F_USB1~2 Front panel USB 2.
Chapter 1 I/O Ports 1. PS/2 Combo port Use the PS/2 combo port to connect the PS/2 Keyboard or PS/2 Mouse. 2. USB 2.0 Ports Use the USB 2.0 ports to connect USB 2.0 devices. 3. VGA Port Connect your monitor to the VGA port. 4. DVI Port You can connect the display device to the DVI port. 5. eSATA Port Use this port to connect to external SATA box or Serial ATA port multiplier. 6. HDMI Port You can connect the display device to the HDMI port. 7. USB 3.0 Ports Use the USB 3.0 ports to connect USB 3.
Chapter 2 Installing the Motherboard Follow these safety precautions when installing the motherboard: • • • • Wear a grounding strap attached to a grounded device to avoid damage from static electricity. Discharge static electricity by touching the metal case of a safely grounded object before working on the motherboard. Leave components in the static-proof bags.
2-3. Checking Jumper Settings The following illustration shows the location of the motherboard jumpers. Pin 1 is labeled. Chapter 2 To avoid the system instability after clearing CMOS, we recommend users to enter the main BIOS setting page to “Load Default Settings” and then “Save and Exit Setup”.
2-4. Installing Hardware • • • • This motherboard has an LGA1150 socket. When choosing a processor, consider the performance requirements of the system. Performance is based on the processor design, the clock speed and system bus frequency of the processor, and the quantity of internal cache memory and external cache memory. You may be able to change the settings in the system Setup Utility. We strongly recommend you do not over-clock processor or other components to run faster than their rated speed.
D. Rotate the load plate onto the package IHS (Intergraded Heat Spreader). Engage the load lever while pressing down lightly onto the load plate. Secure the load lever with the hook under retention tab. Then the cover will flick automatically. Chapter 2 Please save and replace the cover onto the CPU socket if processor is removed.
• • • • • • Install the cooling fan in a well-lit work area so that you can clearly see the motherboard and processor socket. Avoid using cooling fans with sharp edges in case the fan casing and the clips cause serious damage to the motherboard or its components. To achieve better airflow rates and heat dissipation, we suggest that you use a high quality fan with 3800 rpm at least. CPU fan and heat sink installation procedures may vary with the type of CPU fan/heatsink supplied.
2-4-3. Installing Memory Modules • • Chapter 2 • • This motherboard accommodates four memory modules. It can support four 240-pin DDR3 3000+(OC)/2133(OC)/1866(OC)/1600/1333 MHz. Do not remove any memory module from its antistatic packaging until you are ready to install it on the motherboard. Handle the modules only by their edges. Do not touch the components or metal parts. Always wear a grounding strap when you handle the modules. You must install at least one module in any of the four slots.
Recommend memory configuration Sockets DDR3_1 DDR3_2 DDR3_3 1 DIMM ~ Populated ~ DDR3_4 ~ 1 DIMM ~ ~ ~ Populated 2 DIMMs ~ Populated ~ Populated 3 DIMMs Populated Populated ~ Populated 3 DIMMs ~ Populated Populated Populated 4 DIMMs Populated Populated Populated Populated Chapter 2 Model Due to Intel CPU spec definition, please follow the table above for recommended memory configuration. 1.
2-4-4. Installing Add-on Cards The slots on this motherboard are designed to hold expansion cards and connect them to the system bus. Expansion slots are a means of adding or enhancing the motherboard’s features and capabilities. With these efficient facilities, you can increase the motherboard’s capabilities by adding hardware that performs tasks that are not part of the basic system. Chapter 2 PCIE1~4 Slots The PCI Express x1 slots are fully compliant to the PCI Express Base Specification revision 2.0.
Follow these instructions to install an add-on card: 2 3 Remove a blanking plate from the system case corresponding to the slot you are going to use. Install the edge connector of the add-on card into the expansion slot. Ensure that the edge connector is correctly seated in the slot. Secure the metal bracket of the card to the system case with a screw. 1.
2-4-5. Connecting Optional Devices Refer to the following for information on connecting the motherboard’s optional devices: Chapter 2 16 No. Components No.
1. USB3F: Front Panel USB 3.0 header Chapter 2 This Motherboard implements one USB 3.0 header supporting 2 extra front USB 3.0 ports, which delivers 5Gb/s transfer rate. Please make sure that the USB cable has the same pin assignment as indicated above. A different pin assignment may cause damage or system hangup. 2. SATA3_1~SATA3_6: Serial ATA connectors SATA3_1~SATA3_6 connectors are used to support the Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s device, simpler disk drive cabling and easier PC assembly.
3. F_USB1~2: Front Panel USB 2.0 headers The motherboard has two USB 2.0 headers supporting four USB 2.0 ports. Additionally, some computer cases have USB ports at the front of the case. If you have this kind of case, use auxiliary USB connector to connect the front-mounted ports to the motherboard. Chapter 2 Unlike F_USB2, F_USB1 supports EZ Charger technology, provides 3 times current than general USB port in off mode for USB devices.
5. CASE: Chassis Intrusion Detect Header Chapter 2 This detects if the chassis cover has been removed. This function needs a chassis equipped with instrusion detection switch and needs to be enabled in BIOS. 6. COM: Onboard serial port header Connect a serial port extension bracket to this header to add a serial port to your system.
7. LPT: Onboard parallel port header This is a header that can be used to connect to the printer, scanner or other devices. Chapter 2 8. F_AUDIO: Front Panel Audio Header The front panel audio header allows the user to install auxiliary front-oriented microphone and line-out ports for easier access. This header supports HD audio by default. If you want connect an AC’ 97 front panel audio to HD onboard headers, please set as below picture.
AC’ 97 Audio Configuration: To enable the front panel audio connector to support AC97 Audio mode. Chapter 2 If you use AC’ 97 Front Panel, please tick off the option of “ Disabled Front Panel Detect ”. If you use HD Audio Front Panel, please don’ t tick off “Disabled Front Panel Detect ” . * For reference only If you use AC’ 97 Front Panel, please don’ t tick off “Using Front Jack Detect ”. If you use HD Audio Front Panel, please tick off the option of “Using Front Jack Detect ”.
9. SPDIFO: SPDIF out header This is an optional header that provides an SPDIFO (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) output to digital multimedia device through optical fiber or coaxial connector.
2-4-6. Installing a SATA Hard Drive This section describes how to install a SATA Hard Drive. Your motherboard features six SATA connectors supporting a total of six drives. SATA refers to Serial ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) is the standard interface for the IDE hard drives which are currently used in most PCs. These connectors are well designed and will only fit in one orientation. Locate the SATA connectors on the motherboard and follow the illustration below to install the SATA hard drives.
2-4-7. Connecting Case Components After you have installed the motherboard into a case, you can begin connecting the motherboard components. Refer to the following: Chapter 2 24 No. Components No.
1 & 2. CPU_FAN1~2(CPU cooling FAN Power Connectors) & 9. PWR_FAN (Power Cooling FAN Power Connector) 4 & 5 & 8. SYS_FAN1~3 (System Cooling FAN Power Connectors) Chapter 2 Connect the CPU cooling fan cable to CPU_FAN. Connect the system cooling fan connector to SYS_FAN. Connect the power cooling fan connector to PWR_FAN. Users please note that the fan connector supports the CPU cooling fan of 1.1A ~ 2.2A (26.4W max) at +12V. 3. ATX_POWER (ATX 24-pin Power Connector) & 10.
Connecting 24-pin power cable The ATX 24-pin connector allows you to connect to ATX v2.x power supply. Chapter 2 With ATX v2.x power supply, users please note that when installing 24-pin power cable, the latches of power cable and the ATX match perfectly. 24-pin power cable Connecting 8-pin power cable The ATX12V power connector is used to provide power to the CPU. When installing 8-pin power cable, the latches of power cable and the ATX12V match perfectly.
6. F_PANEL: Front Panel Header Chapter 2 The front panel header (F_PANEL) provides a standard set of switch and LED headers commonly found on ATX or Micro ATX cases. Refer to the table below for information: Hard Drive Activity LED Connecting pins 1 and 3 to a front panel mounted LED provides visual indication that data is being read from or written to the hard drive. For the LED to function properly, an IDE drive should be connected to the onboard IDE interface.
7. SPK: Speaker header Connect the case speaker cable to SPK.
Chapter 3 Using BIOS About the Setup Utility The BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) Setup Utility displays the system’s configuration status and provides you with options to set system parameters. The parameters are stored in battery-backed-up CMOS RAM that saves this information when the power is turned off. When the system is turned back on, the system is configured with the values you stored in CMOS.
Press the delete key to access BIOS Setup Utility. Chapter 3 Resetting the Default CMOS Values When powering on for the first time, the POST screen may show a “CMOS Settings Wrong” message. This standard message will appear following a clear CMOS data at factory by the manufacturer. You simply need to Load Default Settings to reset the default CMOS values. Note: Changes to system hardware such as different CPU, memories, etc. may also trigger this message.
In this manual, default values are enclosed in parenthesis. Submenu items are denoted by an icon . The default BIOS setting for this motherboard apply for most conditions with optimum performance. We do not suggest users change the default values in the BIOS setup and take no responsibility to any damage caused by changing the BIOS settings. BIOS Navigation Keys The BIOS navigation keys are listed below: KEY FUNCTION Exits the current menu Scrolls through the items on a menu +/-Change Opt.
Main Menu This menu shows the information of BIOS and enables you to set the system language, date and time. Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X System Date System Time Security Exit Choose the system default language BIOS Information System Language Boot English Fri 08/23/2013 00:00:21 : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Chapter 3 Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
Advanced Menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system. Advanced Chipset LAN Configuration PC Health Status Power Management Setup ACPI Settings CPU Configuration SATA Configuration Trusted Computing USB Configuration Super IO Configuration Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology M.I.B. X Boot Security Exit LAN Configuration Parameters : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
LAN Configuration The item in the menu shows the LAN-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot LAN Configuration Onboard LAN Controller Enabled Security Exit Enabled/Disabled Onboard LAN Controller : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Chapter 3 Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
PC Health Status On motherboards support hardware monitoring, this item lets you monitor the parameters for critical voltages, temperatures and fan speeds. Main Advanced PC Health Status Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Security Exit : : : : : : : : : : : : : 48 27OC 4017 RPM 0 RPM 0 RPM 0 RPM 0 RPM 1.752V 1.512V 12.168V 5.120V 3.360V 1.044V TCC Activation Temperature (DTS) : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
CPU Fan 1/CPU Fan 2/System Fan 1 Smart Fan Control (Enabled) These items enable you to define the CPU fan 1/CPU fan 2/system fan 1 by smartly adjusting the CPU fan 1/CPU fan 2/system fan 1 fan. When it is set at certain temperature, the CPU fan 1/CPU fan 2/system fan 1 PWM value will change accordingly. Smart Fan Mode (Normal) This item allows you to select the fan mode (Normal, Quiet, Silent, or Manual) for a better operation environment.
Power Management Setup This page sets up some parameters for system power management operation. Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Security Exit About Resume by Ring Power Management Setup Resume By RING Resume By PME Wake on LAN Resume By USB Resume By PS2 KB Resume By PS2 MS Resume By RTC Alarm EUP Function Power LED Type Boot Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Enabled Dual Color LED : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
EUP Function (Enabled) This item allows user to enable or disable EUP support. Power LED Type (Dual Color LED) This item shows the type of the Power LED. Press to return to the Advanced Menu page. ACPI Settings The item in the menu shows the highest ACPI sleep state when the system enters suspend. Chapter 3 Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot ACPI Settings ACPI Sleep State S3 (Suspend to RAM) Security Exit Select ACPI sleep state the system will enter when the SUSPEND button is pressed.
CPU Configuration The item in the menu shows the CPU. Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Security Exit Number of cores to enable in each processor package. Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-4570S CPU @ 2.
Execute Disable Bit (Enabled) This item allows the processor to classify areas in memory by where application code can execute and where it cannot. When a malicious worm attempts to insert code in the buffer, the processor disables code execution, preventing damage or worm propagation. Replacing older computers with Execute Disable Bit enabled systems can halt worm attacks, reducing the need for virus related repair.
SATA Configuration Use this item to show the mode of serial SATA configuration options. Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Security Exit Determines how SATA controller(s) operate.
Trusted Computing Use this item to show the information of trusted computing configuration. Main Advanced Configuration TPM Support Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Enabled Current Status Information NO Security Device Found Security Exit Enables or Disables BIOS support for security device. O.S. will not show Security Device. TCG EFI protocol and INT1A interface will not be available. : Select Screen Chapter 3 /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
USB Configuration Use this item to show the information of USB configuration. Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Security Exit USB Support Parameters All USB Devices Enabled Legacy USB Support Enabled : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
Super IO Configuration Use this item to show the information of Super IO configuration. Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Security Exit Set Parameters of Serial Port 0 (COMA) Super IO Configuration Super IO Chip Serial Port 0 Configuration Parallel Port Configuration IT8728 : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Chapter 3 Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
Parallel Port Configuration Scroll to this item and press to view the following screen: Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Security Exit Enabled or Disabled Parallel Port (LPT/LPTE) Parallel Port Device Settings Enabled IO=378h; IRQ=5; DMA=3 Change Settings Device Mode Auto ECP Mode : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology Use this item to show the information of Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology. Main Advanced Chipset Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology M.I.B. X Boot Disabled Security Exit Enable or disable Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology. : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Chapter 3 Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
Chipset Menu The chipset menu items allow you to change the settings for the North Bridge chipset, South Bridge chipset and other system. Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot System Agent Configuration PCH Configuration ME Configuration Security Exit System Agent (SA) Parameters. : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
CPU SA Audio Device (Enabled) This item allows you to enable or disable the CPU SA Audio device. Press to return to the Chipset Menu page. Multi-Monitor technology Multi-Monitor technology can help you to increase the area available for programs running on a single computer system through using multiple display devices. It is not only to increase larger screen viewing but aslo to improving personal productivity.
Chapter 3 Step 2. Install all the drivers of PCI-Express graphic cards. Click the Browse CD item, then appears the following screen. Select the driver you want to install(e.g NVIDIA GeForce 8400 GS(Microsoft Corporation-WDDM v1.1)) and double click it. Step 3. Enable IGD Multi-Monitor from BIOS. In the following BIOS screen, please set IGD Multi-Monitor to [Enabled]. Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B.
Step 4. Change the appearance of your displays under Windows 7/8. 1. Enter the Control Panel menu, select the Display in the All Control Panel Items and click the Screen Resolution, then appears the following screen. Show the path of the setting location Display devices Control Panel All Control Panel Items Display Search Control Panel Screen Resolution Change the apprearance of your displays 2 3 1 Chapter 3 Display: 1.
Control Panel All Control Panel Items Display Search Control Panel Screen Resolution Change the apprearance of your displays 1 Display: 4. AL1717 Resolution: 1920 x 1200 (recommended) Orientation: Landscape Multiple displays: Disconnect this display ! Detect 4 You must select Apply before making additional changes.
PCH Configuration Scroll to this item and press to view the following screen: Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot PCH Configuration Restore AC Power Loss Power Off Audio Configuration Azalia HD Audio Enabled Case Open Warning Chassis Opened Disabled No Security Exit Select AC Power state when Power is re-applied after a power failure. : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Chapter 3 Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
ME Configuration Scroll to this item and press to view the following screen: Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot ME Control ME FW Version Security Exit Enable/Disable ME Firmware Enabled 9.0.10.1372 : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
M.I.B. X (MB Intelligent BIOS X) Menu This page enables you to set the clock speed and system bus for your system. The clock speed and system bus are determined by the kind of processor you have installed in your system. Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot M.I.B.
IA Core Current (Maximum) This item allows you to set IA Core Current Max. Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (Enabled) This item allows users to enable or disable the EIST (Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology). Turbo Mode (Enabled) This item allows you to control the Intel Turbo Boost Technology. Runtime Turbo Enable (Disabled) This item shows if CPU support runtime turbo or not. Boot Performance mode (Max Non-Turbo Perfor...
North Bridge Configuration Scroll to this item to view the following screen: Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Graphics Core Ratio Limit Security 23 Chapter 3 : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit F9: Capture Screen ESC/Right Click: Exit Graphics Core Ratio Limit (16) This item allows you to control the internal GFX core ratio. Press to return to the M.I.B.
Memory Configuration Scroll to this item to view the following screen: Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Memory Information Memory RC Version Memory Frequency Total Memory 1.4.0.
Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B.
Mc Lock (Enabled) This item allows you to enable or disable capacity to lock MC registers or not. CMD Tri-State (Enabled) This item allows you to enable or disable the CMD Tri-State (ending of the training). Memory Scrambler (Enabled) This item allows you to enable or disable the memory scrambler. MRC Fast Boot (Enabled) This item allows you to enable or disable the MRC fast boot. Memory Thermal Management (Enabled) This item allows you to enable or disable the memory thermal management.
Over Voltage Configuration Scroll to this item to view the following screen: Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X PCH Core Voltage DIMM Voltage Processor Input Voltage Vdroop 1.044 V 1.512 V Auto Auto Auto Enabled Ch0WriteVref Ch1WriteVref ChVrefCA ChReadVref 0.780 V 0.756 V 0.756 V 0.
Ch1WriteVref 0.756 V (Auto) This item allows you to adjust the Ch1WriteVref from 0 to 108, and the default is 54, 1 step is 4mV. ChVrefCA 0.756 V (Auto) This item allows you to adjust the ChVrefCA from 0 to 108, and the default is 54, 1 step is 4mV. ChReadVref 0.756 V (BIOS) This item allows you to adjust the ChReadVref from 0 to 108, and the default is 54, 1 step is 4mV. CPU/RING/Cache/GT Voltage Mode (Adaptive) This item allows you to set the CPU/RING/Cache/GT voltage mode.
Spread Spectrum (Enabled) If you enable spread spectrum, it can significantly reduce the EMI (Electro-Magnetic Interference) generated by the system. Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-4570S CPU @ 2.90GHz This is display-only field and displays the information of the CPU installed in your computer. Processor Speed (2900 MHz) This item shows the CPU speed. Memory Frequency (1067 MHz) This item shows the memory frequency. Total Memory (1024 MB (DDR3)) This item shows the total memory.
Boot Menu This page enables you to set the keyboard NumLock state. Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Operation System Select Launch PXE OpROM Launch Strorage OpROM Windows 7 or other OS Disabled Enabled Security Exit Windows 7 or other OS: Boot policy for Legacy OS. Fast Boot Disabled Windows 8: Boot policy for UEFI OS without Compatibility Support Module(CSM). Bootup NumLock State Quiet Boot Boot Mode Select On Enabled LEGACY Manual: User customized CSM parameters & boot policy.
Hard Disk Drive BBS Priorities Scroll to this item to view the following screen: Main Boot Option #1 Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Silicon-Power PMAP Boot Security Exit Sets the system boot order : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Chapter 3 Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit F9: Capture Screen ESC/Right Click: Exit Boot Option #1 (Silicon-Power PMAP) This item shows the boot priorities.
Security Menu This page enables you to set setup administrator password and user password. Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Security Administrator Password Platform Mode Secure Boot Main : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt.
Exit Menu This page enables you to exit system setup after saving or without saving the changes. Main Advanced Back to EZ Mode Chipset M.I.B.
Updating the BIOS 1 If your motherboard has a BIOS protection jumper, change the setting to allow BIOS flashing. 2 If your motherboard has an item called Firmware Write Protect in Advanced BIOS features, disable it. (Firmware Write Protect prevents BIOS from being overwritten.) 3 Prepare a bootable device or create a bootable system disk. (Refer to Windows online help for information on creating a bootable system disk.) 4 Download the Flash Utility and new BIOS file from the manufacturer’s Web site.
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Chapter 4 Using the Motherboard Software Auto-installing under Windows 7/8 The auto-install DVD-ROM makes it easy for you to install the drivers and software. The support software DVD-ROM disc loads automatically under Windows 7/8. When you insert the DVD-ROM disc in the DVD-ROM drive, the auto-run feature will automatically bring up the installation screen. The screen has four buttons on it: Setup, Utilities, Browse CD and Exit. Click “Exit” button to close the Auto-Setup window.
Click Next. The following screen appears: 3. Check the box next to the items you want to install. The default options are recommended. 4. Click Next to run the Installation Wizard. An item installation screen appears: 5. Follow the instructions on the screen to install the items. Chapter 4 2. Drivers and software are automatically installed in sequence. Follow the onscreen instructions, confirm commands and allow the computer to restart a few times to complete the installation.
Windows 7/8 will appear below UAC (User Account Control) message after the system restart. You must select “Yes” to install the next driver. Continue this process to complete the drivers installation. If the auto-install DVD-ROM does not work on your system, you can still install drivers through the file manager for your OS (for example, Windows Explorer). Look for the chipset and motherboard model, and then browse to the directory and path to begin installing the drivers.
eSF eSF(Smart Fan) utility provides easy and safe way to adjust fan speed in accordance with your PC’s system loading and temperature. It has five modes to adjust fan speed in a safe range without entering the BIOS to optimize your system cooling environment. Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 is required. eDLU Chapter 4 ECS eDLU utility makes updating drivers fast and easy. eDLU saves time and hassle by listing all the latest drivers online.
eOC Monitor Easy Tuning Advance Tuning Options Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 is required. Z87H3-A3X USER MANUAL Chapter 4 ECS eOC Utility is a simple over-clocking tool that provides user-friendly windows operation interface for novices and over-clockers. Combining with ECS MIB X technology, eOC challenges the undiscovered over-clocking capability than ever before.
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Chapter 5 AMD CrossFireXTM Technology Support This motherboard supports the AMD CrossFireXTM Technology that allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. Requirements 1 2 3 4 Two identical CrossFireXTM ready graphic cards are needed for the setup of 2-way CrossFireXTM configuration. You would need one CrossfireXTM bridge cable. Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the AMD CrossFireXTM technology.
The CatalystTM Control Center Dialog Box To enable CrossFireXTM: • • • • Install AMD graphic card driver. Enter the Catalyst Control Center Dialog Box. check the “Enable CrossFireXTM” item. Click Apply button.
Chapter 6 NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI® Technology Support This motherboard supports the NVIDIA ® SLI® Technology that allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Please follow the installation procedures in this section. Requirements 1. Two identical SLI ® ready graphic cards are needed for the setup of 2-way SLI configuration. 2. Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA® SLI ® technology. 3.
2. Connect the cable from your monitors to the SLI-Ready graphics card installed on the PCIEX16_1 slot. Monitor Cable * For reference only Once the new NVIDIA® SLI-certified components have been installed in the system, they will be recognized by the operating system upon Windows boot-up.
Enabling NVIDIA® SLI 1. Click on the SLI capable system message to open the following window. Description: All NVIDIA® GPUs work together with SLI technology to increase the rendering performance of your 3D applications. Typical usage scenarios: Chapter 6 •Playing 3D games •Using any application that renders hardware-accelerated Direct 3D or OpenGL content.
2. Select the checkbox Enable SLI technology and then click Apply You now have an NVIDIA® SLI-enabled PC! You can also access these settings by opening the NVIDIA® Control Panel (right-click on desktop), clicking on 3D Settings (shown below) and then selecting “SetSLI configuration”. Control Panel Setting of 2-Way SLI All in all, the NVIDIA SLI technology works. This concludes Chapter 6.
Chapter 7 Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configuration The Intel® Matrix Storage Manager allows you to configure RAID 0, and 1 sets on the external Serial ATA hard disk drives. Before creating a RAID set Prepare the following items: 1. 2. 3. 4. One SATA HDD. A write-enabled floppy disk. Microsoft ® Windows ® OS installation disk (Windows XP/7/8). Motherboard support CD with Intel® Matrix Storage Manager driver. Complete the following steps before you create a RAID set: 1.
3. Enter the Intel ® Matrix Storage Manager option to set up your RAID configuration. 4. Create an Intel® Matrix Storage Manager driver disk for Windows® OS installation. See section “Creating a RAID driver disk” for details. 5. Install the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager driver after the Windows ® OS had been installed. Entering Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS utility 1. During POST, press to enter the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu.
Creating a RAID set 1. In the main Intel ® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu, highlight Create RAID Volume using the up/down arrow key then press . [ 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 2. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set that you want to create.
4. When done, press to confirm the creation of the RAID set. A dialogue box appears to confirm the action. Press to confirm; otherwise, press . Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM 11.0.0.1204 Copyright(C) 2003-07 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE VOLUME MENU ] Name: Volume0 RAID Level: RAID0(Stripe) Disks: Select Disks Strip Size: 128KB Capacity: 931.5 GB WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.
Main Advanced Chipset M.I.B. X Boot Security Exit Sets the system boot order Hard Disk Drive Priorities 1st Boot Intel volume0 : Select Screen /Click: Select Item Enter/Dbl Click : Select +/- : Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Optimized Defaults F4: Save & Exit F9: Capture Screen ESC/Right Click: Exit Deleting a RAID set 1. In the main Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu, highlight Delete RAID Volume using the up/down arrow key then press .
Resetting disks to Non-RAID An HDD that has been previously configured as part of another RAID set in another platform is called a broken RAID HDD. When you install a broken RAID HDD, you cannot select this disk when configuring a RAID set through the Intel ® Matrix Storage Manager option. If you still want to use this broken RAID HDD as part of the RAID set configured through the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager, you may do so by resetting the disk to Non-RAID.
Chapter 8 Trouble Shooting Start up problems during assembly After assembling the PC for the first time you may experience some start up problems. Before calling for technical support or returning for warranty, this chapter may help to address some of the common questions using some basic troubleshooting tips. You may also log onto our ECS website for more information: http:// www.ecs.com.tw/ECSWebSite/Support/Support_FAQ.
2. From the BIOS setting, try to disable the Smartfan function to let the fan run at default speed. Doing a Load Optimised Default will also disable the Smartfan. Start up problems after prolong use After a prolong period of use your PC may experience start up problems again. This may be caused by breakdown of devices connected to the motherboard such as HDD, CPU fan, etc. The following tips may help to revive the PC or identify the cause of failure. 1. Clear the CMOS values using the CLR_CMOS jumper.
89 If fail, contact RMA CLR CMOS and restart. Yes Halt at POST screen Yes Check if monitor has display Yes Check if Power Supply Unit (PSU) is working Power Bu on is pressed but PC fails to start. - need to CLRCMOS. HDD problem.
Memo Chapter 8 90 Z87H3-A3X USER MANUAL
