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Unpacking

Thank you for buying the MSI
to make sure your motherboard box contains the following items. If something is
missing, contact your dealer as soon as possible.
Motherboard
Quick Guide
I/O Shield
Case Badge
V-Check Cable x6
X99A XPOWER GAMING TITANIUM
®
Drivers & Utilities
Disc
SATA Cable Labels
RGB LED Extension Cable 40cm x1
RGB LED Extension Cable 80cm x1
Door Hanger
motherboard. Check
Motherboard User
Guide
SATA Cable x10
Antenna x2
SLI Bridge 102mm Cable (short) x2
SLI Bridge 140mm Cable (long) x2
1
Unpacking

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Summary of Contents for MSI XPOWER GAMING TITANIUM X99A

  • Page 1: Unpacking

    Unpacking Thank you for buying the MSI X99A XPOWER GAMING TITANIUM motherboard. Check ® to make sure your motherboard box contains the following items. If something is missing, contact your dealer as soon as possible. Drivers & Utilities Motherboard User...
  • Page 2: Safety Information

    Safety Information The components included in this package are prone to damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD). Please adhere to the following instructions to ensure successful computer assembly. Ensure that all components are securely connected. Loose connections may cause the computer to not recognize a component or fail to start. Hold the motherboard by the edges to avoid touching sensitive components.
  • Page 3: Quick Start

    Quick Start Preparing Tools and Components Intel LGA 2011-3 CPU ® Thermal Paste CPU Fan DDR4 Memory Power Supply Unit Chassis SATA Hard Disk Drive Graphics Card SATA DVD Drive A Package of Screws Phillips Screwdriver Quick Start...
  • Page 4: Installing A Processor

    Installing a Processor https://youtu.be/QnwHWBx3NnE Quick Start...
  • Page 5: Installing Ddr4 Memory

    Installing DDR4 memory http://youtu.be/T03aDrJPyQs Quick Start...
  • Page 6: Connecting The Front Panel Header

    Connecting the Front Panel Header http://youtu.be/DPELIdVNZUI HDD LED + Power LED + HDD LED - Power LED - Reset Switch Power Switch Reset Switch Power Switch JFP1 Reserved No Pin JFP1 HDD LED - HDD LED HDD LED + POWER LED - POWER LED POWER LED + Quick Start...
  • Page 7: Installing The Motherboard

    Installing the Motherboard Quick Start...
  • Page 8: Installing Sata Drives

    Installing SATA Drives http://youtu.be/RZsMpqxythc Quick Start...
  • Page 9: Installing A Graphics Card

    Installing a Graphics Card http://youtu.be/mG0GZpr9w_A Quick Start...
  • Page 10: Connecting Peripheral Devices

    Connecting Peripheral Devices Quick Start...
  • Page 11: Connecting The Power Connectors

    Connecting the Power Connectors http://youtu.be/gkDYyR_83I4 JPWR1 JPWR3 JPWR4 JPWR2 Quick Start...
  • Page 12: Power On

    Power On Quick Start...
  • Page 13: Table Of Contents

    Contents Unpacking ......................1 Safety Information ....................2 Quick Start ......................3 Preparing Tools and Components ................3 Installing a Processor ..................... 4 Installing DDR4 memory ..................5 Connecting the Front Panel Header ............... 6 Installing the Motherboard ..................7 Installing SATA Drives.....................
  • Page 14 JUSB1~2: USB 2.0 Connectors ................47 JTPM1: TPM Module Connector ................47 CPUFAN1,SYSFAN1~3, OPTFAN1~2, PUMPFAN1: Fan Connectors ....48 FV1: V-Check Points Connectors ................. 49 JAUD1: Front Audio Connector ................50 JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector ............... 50 BIOS_SW1: Multi-BIOS Switch ................51 JBAT1: Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper ............
  • Page 15 M-CLOUD ......................95 RAMDISK....................... 98 USB SPEED UP ..................... 99 GAMING LAN MANAGER ..................100 Nahimic 2 ......................102 XSplit Gamecaster V2 ..................106 Intel Extreme Tuning Utility ................110 ® Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 Application / Driver ......111 ®...
  • Page 16: Specifications

    Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) ® Supports RDIMM 1Rx8 memory module (Operates in non- ECC mode) * For the latest information about memory, please visit http://www.msi.com 5x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots (PCI_E1~PCI_E4 & PCI_E6*), support up to 4-way mode. 1-way mode: x16/x0/x0/x0/x0 ƒ...
  • Page 17 Continued from previous page Intel X99 Chipset ® RAID SATA1~6 ports support RAID 0, RAID1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 SATA7~10 ports only support IDE mode and AHCI mode. ASMedia ASM1142 Chipset ® 2x USB 3.1 Gen2 (SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps) ports (1 ƒ...
  • Page 18 Continued from previous page 1x 24-pin ATX main power connector 1x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector 1x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector 1x flat 4-pin ATX 12V power connector* 10x SATA 6Gb/s connectors 2x USB 2.0 connectors (supports additional 4 USB 2.0 ports) 2x USB 3.1 Gen1 connectors (supports additional 4 USB 3.1 Gen1 ports)
  • Page 19 Continued from previous page Debug LED 1x 2-Digit Debug Code LED I/O Controller NUVOTON NCT6792D Controller Chip CPU/System temperature detection Hardware Monitor CPU/System fan speed detection CPU/System fan speed control EATX Form Factor Form Factor 12.0 in. x 10.7 in. (30.5 cm x 27.2 cm) 2x 128 Mb flash UEFI AMI BIOS BIOS Features...
  • Page 20 GAMING CERTIFIED WTFast GPN* 2-Month Premium License ƒ Multi-Server Network Optimization ƒ Advanced Lag Spike & Disconnect Reduction ƒ * This offer is valid for a limited period only, for more information please visit www.msi.com Continued on next page Specifications...
  • Page 21 Military Class Component ƒ Military Class Stability and Reliability ƒ ESD Protection ˜ EMI Protection ˜ Humidity Protection ˜ Circuit Protection MSI Exclusive ˜ Features High Temperature Protection ˜ VGA Armor Slot ˜ COMMAND CENTER System Monitor ƒ Smart Fan Control ƒ...
  • Page 22 Continued from previous page DDR4 BOOST Support Quad-Channel DDR4 Memory Support ƒ Isolated DDR4 Circuit Design ƒ DDR4 XMP Ready ƒ Steel Armor Ready ƒ PCI Express 3.0 Support 4-Way Nvidia SLI™ Support ƒ 4-Way AMD CrossFire™ Support ƒ USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A/ Type-C Ready USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C Ready Specification Highlights...
  • Page 23: Block Diagram

    Block Diagram 4 Channel DDR4 Memory Processor Switch PCI Express Bus PCIe x1 slot DMI 3.0 Intel I218V Wi-Fi / Bluetooth SATA Express Switch ASMEDIA ASM1142 USB 3.1 Gen2 X99 PCH PCI Express Bus ASMEDIA USB 3.1 Gen1 ASM1142 PCI Express Bus SATA 6Gb/s VL805 USB 3.1 Gen1...
  • Page 24: Rear I/O Panel

    Rear I/O Panel USB 2.0/ RP.SMA BIOS FLASHBACK+ Audio Ports PS/2 USB 3.1 Gen2 USB 2.0 USB 3.1 Gen1 USB 3.1 Gen2 Optical S/PDIF-Out Type-C Clear CMOS Clear CMOS button - Power off your computer. Press and hold the Clear CMOS button for about 5-10 seconds to reset BIOS to default values.
  • Page 25: Realtek Hd Audio Manager

    Realtek HD Audio Manager After installing the Realtek HD Audio driver, the Realtek HD Audio Manager icon will appear in the system tray. Double click on the icon to launch. Device Selection Advanced Settings Jack Status Application Enhancement Main Volume Connector Strings Profiles...
  • Page 26 Audio jacks to headphone and microphone diagram Audio jacks to stereo speakers diagram AUDIO INPUT Audio jacks to 7.1-channel speakers diagram AUDIO INPUT Rear Front Side Center/ Subwoofer Rear I/O Panel...
  • Page 27: Installing Antennas

    Installing Antennas Screw the antennas tight to the RP-SMA connectors as shown. Place the antennas as high as possible. Rear I/O Panel...
  • Page 28: Overview Of Components

    Overview of Components DIMM4 DIMM5 DIMM3 JPWR3 DIMM6 DIMM2 DIMM7 JPWR2 CPU Socket CPUFAN1 DIMM1 DIMM8 PEGSW1 POWER1 BLKOC_SEL1 SLOW_1 RESET1 SW-TACT1 SW-TACT2 PUMPFAN1 OPTFAN2 JPWR1 SYSFAN1 OPTFAN1 DISCH1 FLASHB1 USB5 PCI_E1 JUSB4 JUSB3 PCI_E2 SATA1_2 PCI_E3 SATA3_4 PCI_E4 M2_1 SATA7_8 PCI_E5 JCI1...
  • Page 29 Component Contents Port Name Port Type Page BIOS_SW1 Multi-BIOS Switch CPUFAN1,SYSFAN1~3, Fan Connectors OPTFAN1~2, PUMPFAN1 CPU Socket LGA2011-3 DIMM1~8 DIMM Slots DISCH1 Discharge Button FLASHB1 BIOS FLASHBACK+ Button V-Check Points Connectors JAUD1 Front Audio Connector JBAT1 Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper JCI1 Chassis Intrusion Connector JFP1, JFP2...
  • Page 30: Cpu Socket

    Always unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing the CPU. Please retain the CPU protective cap after installing the processor. MSI will deal with Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests if only the motherboard comes with the protective cap on the CPU socket.
  • Page 31: Dimm Slots

    DIMM Slots DIMM3 DIMM6 DIMM1 DIMM8 Channel A Channel B Channel D Channel C DIMM4 DIMM5 DIMM2 DIMM7 Memory module installation recommendation DIMM3 DIMM1 DIMM1 DIMM3 DIMM3 DIMM5 DIMM5 DIMM2 DIMM1 DIMM6 DIMM1 DIMM7 DIMM7 Overview of Components...
  • Page 32 DIMM4 DIMM5 DIMM3 DIMM6 DIMM2 DIMM7 DIMM1 DIMM8 Important Always insert a memory module in the DIMM1 slot first. To ensure system stability for Dual/ Triple/ Quad channel mode, memory modules must be of the same type, number and density. And for every channel, the odd number DIMM slot must to be installed first.
  • Page 33: Pci_E1~6: Pcie Expansion Slots

    PCI_E1~6: PCIe Expansion Slots PCI_E1: PCIe 3.0 x16 PCI_E2: PCIe 3.0 x8 PCI_E3: PCIe 3.0 x8 PCI_E4: PCIe 3.0 x16 PCI_E5: PCIe 2.0 x1 PCI_E6: PCIe 3.0 x4/ x8 Important For a single PCIe x16 expansion card installation with optimum performance, using the PCI_E1 slot is recommended.
  • Page 34 Multiple graphics cards installation recommendation PCI_E1 PCI_E1 PCI_E4 For 40 lanes CPUs For 28 lanes CPUs PCI_E1 PCI_E1 PCI_E2 PCI_E4 PCI_E4 PCI_E6 PCI_E1 PCI_E2 PCI_E4 PCI_E6 Overview of Components...
  • Page 35: Pegsw1: Pcie Ceasefire Switch

    Installing SLI graphics cards For power supply recommendations for SLI configurations, please refer to the user guide of your graphics card to make sure you meet all the system requirements. To install SLI graphics cards: Turn off your computer and disconnect the power cord, install two graphics cards into the PCI_E1 and PCI_E4 slots.
  • Page 36: Sata1~10: Sata 6Gb/S Connectors

    SATA1~10: SATA 6Gb/s Connectors These connectors are SATA 6Gb/s interface ports. Each connector can connect to one SATA device. SATA2 SATA1 SATA4 SATA3 SATA8 SATA7 SATA9 SATA6 SATA10 SATA5 SE1_65: SATAe Connectors These connectors are SATAe (SATA Express) interface ports. Each SATAe connector can be used with a single SATAe device or two legacy SATA devices.
  • Page 37: M2_1: M.2 Slot (Key M)

    M2_1: M.2 Slot (Key M) Important Intel RST only supports PCIe M.2 SSD with UEFI ROM, ® does not support Legacy ROM. Video Demonstration Watch the video to learn how to Install M.2 module. http://youtu.be/JCTFABytrYA Installing M.2 module Remove the screw from the base screw.
  • Page 38: U2_1: U.2 Connector

    U2_1: U.2 Connector This connector is a U.2 interface port. Each connector can connect to one PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe storage device. Video Demonstration Watch the video to learn how to Install U.2 SSD. http://youtu.be/KgFvKDxymvw Installing U.2 SSD Connect the U.2 cable to the U.2 connector on the motherboard.
  • Page 39: Se_Usb_Sw1: Se Usb Switch

    SE_USB_SW1: SE USB Switch This switch allows you to switch between JUSB4 connector and SE1_65 connector. Please refer to the below table for more information. SE_USB_SW1 Switch to JUSB4 ✓ ─ ─ PCI_E6 ─ ─ U2_1 3.0x4 JUSB4 2.0x2 2.0x2 2.0x2 ─...
  • Page 40 1xU.2 SSD + 8xSATA HDDs + 1xU.2 SSD + 10xSATA HDDs 1xSATAe HDD SATA6 SATA5 SATAe Switch to SE1_65 Switch to SE1_65 1xU.2 SSD + 1xM.2 SATA SSD + 1xU.2 SSD + 1xM.2 PCIe SSD + 8xSATA HDDs 8xSATA HDDs M.2 SATA M.2 PCIe Switch to SE1_65...
  • Page 41 1xPCI_E6 Device + 1xM.2 SATA SSD + 1xPCI_E6 Device + 1xM.2 PCIe SSD + 8xSATA HDDs 8xSATA HDDs M.2 SATA M.2 PCIe PCI_E6 PCI_E6 Switch to SE1_65 Switch to SE1_65 JUSB4 USB Devices + 1xPCI_E6 Device JUSB4 USB Devices + 1xM.2 PCIe SSD M.2 PCIe PCI_E6 Switch to JUSB4...
  • Page 42: Oc1: Game Boost Knob

    Note: this table is for Haswell processors only. If you want to learn about the CPU frequency of each stage in GAME BOOST mode for Broadwell processors, please visit www.msi.com Power on and then GAME BOOST will automatically overclock processor depending on the stage you selected.
  • Page 43: Slow_1, Jslow_1: Slow Mode Booting Switch/ Jumper

    Rotate the GAME BOOST knob to 0 and then power on. The configuration parameters will be returned to its default values. Important You can also control the GAME BOOST function in BIOS Setup or with MSI COMMAND CENTER software. In order to optimize performance and improve system stability, when you activate the GAME BOOST function, please leave the settings in the BIOS >...
  • Page 44: Jpwr1~4: Power Connectors

    JPWR1~4: Power Connectors These connectors allow you to connect an ATX power supply. JPWR2 Ground +12V Ground +12V Ground +12V Ground +12V JPWR3 Ground +12V Ground +12V +3.3V +3.3V +3.3V -12V Ground Ground PS-ON# Ground Ground Ground JPWR1 Ground Ground PWR OK 5VSB +12V...
  • Page 45: Jfp1, Jfp2: Front Panel Connectors

    JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors These connectors connect to the switches and LEDs on the front panel. JFP1 HDD LED + Power LED + HDD LED - Power LED - Reset Switch Power Switch Reset Switch Power Switch Reserved No Pin Speaker - Buzzer + JFP2...
  • Page 46: Usb5: Usb 3.1 Gen1 Type-C Connector

    However, when you boot the computer into Windows , you will ® need to install the MSI SUPER CHARGER application to turn ON/OFF ® the Charging mode. Video Demonstration Watch the video to learn how to charge the smartphone with Super- Charger.
  • Page 47: Jusb1~2: Usb 2.0 Connectors

    JUSB1~2: USB 2.0 Connectors These connectors allow you to connect USB 2.0 ports on the front panel. USB0- USB1- USB0+ USB1+ Ground Ground No Pin Important Note that the VCC and Ground pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible damage.
  • Page 48: Cpufan1,Sysfan1~3, Optfan1~2, Pumpfan1: Fan Connectors

    CPUFAN1,SYSFAN1~3, OPTFAN1~2, PUMPFAN1: Fan Connectors Fan connectors can be classified as PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) Mode and Voltage Mode. PWM Mode fan connectors provide constant 12V output and adjust fan speed with speed control signal. Voltage Mode fan connectors control fan speed by changing voltage.
  • Page 49: Fv1: V-Check Points Connectors

    FV1: V-Check Points Connectors These voltage checkpoints are used to measure the current system voltages. A multimeter (not included) will be required to check voltages. CORE RING DDR23 DDR01 VCCIN To measure voltage, please use the optional voltage checkpoint cables included in the motherboard package and follow the below steps: Insert the cube end of the V-Check cables into the GND pin and the voltage pin you want to measure.
  • Page 50: Jaud1: Front Audio Connector

    JAUD1: Front Audio Connector This connector allows you to connect audio jacks on the front panel. MIC L Ground MIC R Head Phone R MIC Detection SENSE_SEND No Pin Head Phone L Head Phone Detection JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector This connector allows you to connect the chassis intrusion switch cable. Normal Trigger the chassis intrusion event...
  • Page 51: Bios_Sw1: Multi-Bios Switch

    When BIOS updating fails or causes the computer non-bootable, you can recover the failed BIOS by the steps below. Before recovering, please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI website. And then save the BIOS file to the root of the USB flash drive.
  • Page 52: Jbat1: Clear Cmos (Reset Bios) Jumper

    JBAT1: Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper There is CMOS memory onboard that is external powered from a battery located on the motherboard to save system configuration data. If you want to clear the system configuration, set the jumpers to clear the CMOS memory. Keep Data Clear CMOS/ Reset BIOS...
  • Page 53: Flashb1: Bios Flashback+ Button

    FLASHB1: BIOS FLASHBACK+ Button This button is used to activate the BIOS FLASHBACK+ function. Please refer to page 59 for Updating BIOS with BIOS FLASHBACK+. POWER1, RESET1: Power Button, Reset Button The Power / Reset button allows you to power on / reset the computer. Power button Reset button SW-TACT1~2, BLKOC_SEL1: Plus, Minus Button, BCLK-Ratio...
  • Page 54: Oc_Rt1, Oc_Fs1 : Oc Retry Button, Oc Force Enter Bios Button

    OC_RT1, OC_FS1 : OC Retry Button, OC Force Enter BIOS Button OC_RT1: When you press and hold this button, the system will keep retrying OC items until it boot up successfully. OC_FS1: When you press this button, the system will be forced into BIOS without showing the OC_FAIL message.
  • Page 55: Led Status Indicators

    LED Status Indicators BIOS FLASHBACK+ LED Debug Code LED GAME BOOST HW LED GAME BOOST SW LED EZ Debug LED 2: DRAM BOOT XMP LED BIOS B LED BIOS A LED HDD LED LED Status Table LED Status Description White CPU is not detected or fail DRAM White...
  • Page 56: Debug Code Led Table

    Debug Code LED Table Post Status 02,07 Power on CPU Initialization 03,08 Power on North Bridge Initialization 04,09 Power on South Bridge Initialization Power on Cache Initialization 11~14,32~36,56~5A Early CPU Initialization 15~18,37~3A Early North Bridge Initialization 19~1C,3B~3E Early South Bridge Initialization 1D~2F,31,3F~4E,50~55 Early Memory Initialization 63~67,D0...
  • Page 57: Bios Setup

    Press Delete key, when the Press DEL key to enter Setup Menu, F11 to enter Boot Menu message appears on the screen during the boot process. Use MSI FAST BOOT application. Click on GO2BIOS button and choose OK. The system will reboot and enter BIOS setup directly.
  • Page 58: Resetting Bios

    Updating BIOS Updating BIOS with M-FLASH Before updating: Please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI website. And then save the BIOS file into the USB flash drive. Updating BIOS: Press Del key to enter the BIOS Setup during POST.
  • Page 59 Before updating: Please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI ® website and rename the BIOS file to MSI.ROM. And then, save the MSI.ROM file to the root of USB flash drive. Important Only the FAT32 format USB flash drive supports updating BIOS by BIOS FLASHBACK+.
  • Page 60: Ez Mode

    EZ Mode At EZ mode, it provides the basic system information and allows you to configure the basic setting. To configure the advanced BIOS settings, please enter the Advanced Mode by pressing the Setup Mode switch or F7 function key. XMP switch Setup Mode switch Screenshot...
  • Page 61 Important Please don’ t make any changes in OC menu and don’ t load defaults to keep the optimal performance and system stability after activating the GAME BOOST function. Favorites - press any Favorites tab or the F3 key to enter Favorites menu. It allows you to create personal BIOS menu where you can save and access favorite/ frequently-used BIOS setting items.
  • Page 62: Advanced Mode

    Advanced Mode Press Setup Mode switch or F7 function key can switch between EZ Mode and Advanced Mode in BIOS setup. XMP switch Setup Mode switch Screenshot Favorites Language System information GAME BOOST switch Boot device priority bar BIOS menu BIOS menu selection selection...
  • Page 63: Settings

    SETTINGS System Status System Date Sets the system date. Use tab key to switch between date elements. The format is <day> <month> <date> <year>. <day> Day of the week, from Sun to Sat, determined by BIOS. Read-only. <month> The month from Jan. through Dec. <date>...
  • Page 64 fPEG X - PCI_EX-Gen X [Auto] Sets PCI Express protocol of PCIe x16 slots for matching different installed devices. [Auto] This item will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Gen1] Enables PCIe Gen1 support only. [Gen2] Enables PCIe Gen2 support only. [Gen3] Enables PCIe Gen3 support only.
  • Page 65 fIpv6 PXE Support [Enabled] When Enabled, the system UEFI network stack will support Ipv6 protocol. This item will appear when Network Stack is enabled. [Enabled] Enables the Ipv6 PXE boot support. [Disabled] Disables the Ipv6 PXE boot support. fSATA Mode [AHCI Mode] (For SATA1~6) Sets the operation mode of the onboard SATA controller.
  • Page 66 fLegacy USB Support [Enabled] Sets Legacy USB function support. [Auto] The system will automatically detect if any USB device is connected and enable the legacy USB support. [Enabled] Enable the USB support under legacy mode. [Disabled] The USB devices will be unavailable under legacy mode. Power Management Setup Sets system Power Management of EuP2013 and AC Power Loss behaviors.
  • Page 67 Fast Boot [Disabled] MSI Fast Boot is the fastest way to boot the system. It will disable more devices to speed up system boot time which is faster than the boot time of Fast Boot. [Enabled] Enables the MSI Fast Boot function to speed up booting time. And the following Fast Boot field will be disabled and fixed.
  • Page 68 fResume By RTC Alarm [Disabled] Disables or enables the system wake up by RTC Alarm. [Enabled] Enables the system to boot up on a scheduled time/ date. [Disabled] Disables this function. fDate (of month) Alarm/ Time (hh:mm:ss) Alarm Sets RTC alarm date/ Time. If Resume By RTC Alarm is set to [Enabled], the system will automatically resume (boot up) on a specified date/hour/minute/second in these fields (using the + and - keys to select the date &...
  • Page 69: Boot

    Boot Sets the sequence of system boot devices. Full Screen Logo Display [Enabled] Enables or disables to show the full screen logo while system POST. [Enabled] Shows the logo in full screen. [Disabled] Shows the POST messages. GO2BIOS [Disabled] Allows system to enter BIOS setup directly by pressing the Power button for 4 sec upon bootup.
  • Page 70: Save & Exit

    Password Clear [Enabled] Enables or disables the clear CMOS behavior to clear a set password. [Enabled] The password will be erased after clear CMOS. [Disabled] The password will always be kept. Important When selecting the Administrator / User Password items, a password box will appear on the screen.
  • Page 71 Important Overclocking your PC manually is only recommended for advanced users. Overclocking is not guaranteed, and if done improperly, it could void your warranty or severely damage your hardware. If you are unfamiliar with overclocking, we advise you to use GAME BOOST function for easy overclocking.
  • Page 72 CPU Ratio Mode [Dynamic Mode]* Selects the CPU Ratio operating mode. This item will appear when you set the CPU ratio manually. [Fixed Mode] Fixes the CPU ratio. [Dynamic Mode] CPU ratio will be changed dynamically according to the CPU loading.
  • Page 73 CPU Base Clock Apply Mode [Auto]* Sets the applying mode for adjusted CPU base clock. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Next Boot] CPU will run the adjusted CPU base clock at next boot. [Immediate] CPU runs the adjusted CPU base clock immediately. [During Boot] CPU will run the adjusted CPU base clock during boot.
  • Page 74 Memory Fast Boot [Auto] Enables or disables the initiation and training for memory every booting. [Auto] The setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enabled] System will completely keep the archives of first intiation and training for memory. So the memory will not be initialed and trained when booting to accelerate the system booting time.
  • Page 75 fCPU VRM Over Temperature Protection [Enabled] Enables or disables the CPU VRM over-temperature protection. [Enabled] Sets the temperature limit on CPU VRM for over-temperature protection. The CPU frequency may be throttled when CPU temperature over the specified temperature. [Disabled] Disables this function. fDRAM CH_A/B, CH_C/D Phase Control [Auto] Controls PWM phase proportionally to the DRAM loading.
  • Page 76 fPCH Over Current Protection [Auto] Sets the current limit for PCH over-current protection. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enhanced] Extends the limitation of PCH over-current protection. fPCH Switching Frequency [Auto] Sets the PWM working speed to stabilize PCH voltage and minimize ripple range. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting automatically.
  • Page 77 fCPU Technology Support Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu shows the key features of installed CPU. Read only. MEMORY-Z Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu displays all the settings and timings of installed memory. You can also access this information menu at any time by pressing [F5].
  • Page 78 fIntel VT-D Tech [Enabled] Enables or disables Intel VT-D (Intel Virtualization for Directed I/O) technology. fHardware Prefetcher [Enabled] Enables or disables the hardware prefetcher (MLC Streamer prefetcher). [Enabled] Allows the hardware prefetcher to automatically pre-fetch data and instructions into L2 cache from memory for tuning the CPU performance.
  • Page 79 fCFG Lock [Enabled] Lock or un-lock the MSR 0xE2[15], CFG lock bit. [Enabled] Locks the CFG lock bit. [Disabled] Un-locks the CFG lock bit. fEIST [Disabled] Enables or disables the Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology. This item ® willappear when Simple/ Advanced Mode is set to Simple. [Enabled] Enables the EIST to adjust CPU voltage and core frequency dynamically.
  • Page 80 fInternal VR Efficiency Management [Auto] Enables or disables the CPU internal VR efficiency management. [Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS. [Enabled] Enables the VR effciency management for power-saving control. [Disabled] Disables this function. fDMI Gen 2 [Auto] Enables or disables DMI (Direct Media Interface) generation 2.
  • Page 81: M-Flash

    M-FLASH provides the way to update BIOS with a USB flash drive. Please down-load the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI website, save the BIOS file into your USB flash drive. And then follow the steps below to update BIOS.
  • Page 82: Oc Profile

    OC PROFILE Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6 Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6 management. Press <Enter> to enter the sub- menu. fSet Name for Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6 Name the current overclocking profile. fSave Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6 Save the current overclocking profile.
  • Page 83: Hardware Monitor

    HARDWARE MONITOR Current Temperature & Speed information Fan control field Setting Buttons Voltage display Current Temperature & Speed information Shows the current CPU temperature, system temperature and fans' speeds. Fan control field This motherboard provides a fan speed control feature call Smart Fan. Please check the Smart Fan Mode box to enable the Smart Fan.
  • Page 84: Software Description

    7/ 8.1/ 10. ® Installing Drivers Start up your computer in Windows 7/ 8.1/ 10. ® Insert MSI Driver Disc into your optical drive. ® The installer will automatically appear and it will find and list all necessary drivers. Click Install button.
  • Page 85: Command Center

    COMMAND CENTER COMMAND CENTER is an user-friendly software and exclusively developed by MSI, helping users to adjust system settings and monitor status under OS. With the help of COMMAND CENTER, making it possible to achieve easier and efficient monitoring process and adjustments than that under BIOS. In addition, the COMMAND CENTER can be a server for mobile remote control application.
  • Page 86 CPU Fan CPU Fan control panel provides Smart mode and Manual Mode. You can switch the control mode by clicking the Smart Mode and Manual Mode buttons on the top of the CPU Fan control panel. Manual Mode - allows you to manually control the CPU fan speed by percentage.
  • Page 87 GAME BOOST GAME BOOST has 8 overclocking stages for you to overclock your computer. COMMAND CENTER provides the software interface instead of GAME BOOST knob on the motherboard. You can click on the center button to switch GAME BOOST control between software (SW) and hardware (HW) .
  • Page 88 Find the IP address on the SoftAP Management Setting area, and enter the IP address on your MSI COMMAND CENTER APP to link your system. ® Press Refresh on the MSI COMMAND CENTER APP to verify that monitoring and ® OC functions are working properly.
  • Page 89: Live Update 6

    LIVE UPDATE 6 LIVE UPDATE 6 is an application for the MSI system to scan and download the latest ® drivers, BIOS and utilities. With LIVE UPDATE 6, you don’ t need to search the drivers on websites, and don’ t need to know the models of motherboard and graphics cards.
  • Page 90 Choose Automatic scan, system will automatically scan all the items and search for the latest update files. Or you can choose Manual scan and select the items you wish to scan. Click the Scan button at the bottom. It may take several moments to complete the process.
  • Page 91: Gaming App

    GAMING APP GAMING APP is an application designed to quickly control your system for improving gaming performance. Setting Button Information Button Display Mode Button CPU Frequency GPU Frequency Gaming Function Full Speed GPU Fan Buttons Control Mode Buttons Setting Button - allows you to run GAMING APP when Windows starts. Information Button - shows the information of this application.
  • Page 92 OSD Setting Panel Use the OSD setting panel to specify information within on-screen display (OSD). Apply Button - allows you to accept selections. LED Effect LED Effect allows you to control LED lights on your motherboard. All LED - controls all LEDs on your motherboard. Each LED - separately controls each segment of LEDs on your motherboard.
  • Page 93 Login Keys - provides hotkey login function. ƒ MSI Smart Keys - allows you to define hotkeys for MSI Smart Keys. ƒ Hotkey Manager - allows you to create, edit and delete hotkeys. Current Hotkeys - shows all existing hotkeys.
  • Page 94 Mouse Master Mouse Master provides mouse macro function. You can also use it to change DPI of your mouse. DPI Setting Delay Time Default Button Macro Hot Key DPI Hot Key Mouse Action Action List Test Area Edit Buttons Clear Button Load Button Save Button Delay Time - allows you to input delay time and click the Add button to insert a...
  • Page 95: M-Cloud

    M-CLOUD M-CLOUD is an application of MSI network sharing. It allows you to turn your computer into Wi-Fi AP. It can also transfer files between your MSI computers. Soft AP ON/OFF History Server Information Users & Permissions Server Local Directory...
  • Page 96 Setting up Soft AP (optional) The Soft AP function is only available for the motherboard with the built-in WiFi module. You can share your network connection to your smartphones, tablets and laptops with the Soft AP function. Important You must have an active network connection and an installed Wi-Fi moudle to enable Soft AP.
  • Page 97 Managing User Accounts This section describes how to create/ remove a user account and configure individual access permissions. Click the Users & Permissions button and the Users & Permissions Management window will pop up. Click Add Account button create a new user account. Fill in user’...
  • Page 98: Ramdisk

    RAMDISK RAMDISK creates a virtual RAM drive using the available memory in your computer, the performance of the RAMDISK is faster than an SSD and hard drive. RAMDISK allows you to store any temporary information on it. Furthermore, using the RAMDISK will extend your SSD’...
  • Page 99: Usb Speed Up

    USB SPEED UP Enabling USB SPEED UP can speed up the date transfer rates of the USB storage devices. Setting On/ Off button Display Setting - enables or disables Run USB SPEED UP when windows starts. Default setting is enabled On/ Off button - switches the USB SPEED UP on or off.
  • Page 100: Gaming Lan Manager

    GAMING LAN MANAGER GAMING LAN MANAGER is an utility for traffic shaping for the Windows 7/ 8.1/ 10. It can keep your internet fast during heavy upload/ download and improve your ping for online games. If your motherboard has a Wi-Fi module, GAMING LAN MANAGER provides virtual access point function for traffic shaping for your mobile devices.
  • Page 101 Speed Testing The speed testing is used to optimize bandwidth usage. To test the Upload and Down- load speed, please follow the steps below: Click the Network Test block in GAMING LAN MANAGER. Click Test Network Speed button. The test takes several minutes to test your network speed.
  • Page 102: Nahimic 2

    HD Audio Recorder2 and Sound Tracker. Installation and Update Nahimic 2 is included in the audio driver. If you need to install it or update it, please use the Driver Disc with your motherboard or download the driver from MSI’ s official website. Audio Tab From this tab, you can access all of Nahimic 2’...
  • Page 103 Smart Loudness - maintains a constant volume for all elements of the audio ƒ experience to making them all sound softer, balanced or louder. Voice Clarity - boosts the speech in movies, video games and incoming ƒ communication from +0 through +12 dB (0 to 100%). Reset Button - restores the current profile to its default values.
  • Page 104 Device properties - allows you to boost the volume and modify the left/ right ƒ balance of microphone. Clicks on this button and a device properties panel will show. Microphone Loopback - turns the microphone loopback On/Off. In order to avoid any feedback (Larsen effect).
  • Page 105 Control Page - by clicking the arrow button, you can access the control page. Audio Launchpad ON/OFF - switches the Audio Launchpad on or off. ƒ HD Audio Recorder 2 - The HD Audio Recorder 2 is, by default, automatically ƒ...
  • Page 106: Xsplit Gamecaster V2

    Login button. Important When starting XSplit Gamecaster V2 on select MSI gaming laptops, all-in ones or on ® machines that contain select MSI motherboards or graphics cards, you will receive ®...
  • Page 107 Learning stream and record Refer to the Start page of XSplit Gamecaster V2 to learn how to stream and record your gameplay. Tool Tip When you click the question mark next to a feature name on the panel, a tooltip will show, describing the particular function of that item.
  • Page 108 Share Button - If you authorize your Facebook, Twitter, and/or Google+ accounts, you can quickly share your stream URL and status update within the overlay. Annotations - This feature of XSplit Gamecaster V2 allows you to draw directly onto your game play. You can activate annotation mode by clicking on the pencil button in the overlay.
  • Page 109 Microphone Settings - In this region, you can select your desired microphone. What is shown in the list depends on what you have connected to your PC. If you don’ t see your desired device in the list, please make sure that it is detected and it is not disabled in your recording devices list in the Windows Sound Menu (Start >...
  • Page 110: Intel ® Extreme Tuning Utility

    Intel Extreme Tuning Utility ® Intel Extreme Tuning Utility (Intel XTU) is a simple overclocking software for you to ® tune, test and monitor your system. Tuning Controls Views Settings Help System Navigation Table System System Monitors Graphs Views Settings Help Views - toggles to switche between Monitoring and Show All view.
  • Page 111: Intel ® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 Application / Driver

    Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 Application / Driver ® Processors containing the Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 feature have at ® least one processor core whose maximum turbo frequency is higher than the other cores. To realize the higher performance benefit of such a processor core, targeted applications must run on that core.
  • Page 112 Core List - is an ordered list of the processor cores with the highest performance core at the top. Adjacent list entries may represent cores with equivalent performance. The core numbering scheme is consistent with the operating system’ s core numbering scheme. For example, Core 0 corresponds to logical processors 0 &...
  • Page 113: Dragon Eye

    DRAGON EYE DRAGON EYE is an application allows you to watch a game guide, tutorial, live match or tournament stream while playing a game. In the game, you can use hotkeys to control / adjust the window of video. Size Settings Position Settings On / Off Switch Help...
  • Page 114: Raid Configuration

    RAID Configuration Below are the different types of a RAID. RAID 0 breaks the data into blocks which are written to separate hard drives. Spreading the hard drive I/O load across independent channels greatly improves I/O performance. RAID 1 provides data redundancy by mirroring data between the hard drives and provides enhanced read performance.
  • Page 115 Creating RAID Volume Select option Create RAID Volume and press Enter key. The following screen appears. CREATE VOLUME MENU Name : Volume0 RAID Level : RAID1(Mirror) Disks : Select Disks Strip Size : N / A Capacity : XXX.X GB Sync : N / A Create Volume...
  • Page 116 Delete RAID Volume Here you can delete the RAID volume, but please be noted that all data on RAID drives will be lost. Important If your system currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume in the IRST Option ROM, your system will become unbootable.
  • Page 117: Degraded Raid Array

    Important You will lose all data on the RAID drives and any internal RAID structures when you perform this operation. Possible reasons to Reset Disks to Non-RAID could include issues such as incompatible RAID configurations or a failed volume or failed disk. Recovery Volume Options Select option Recovery Volume Options from the main menu screen and press Enter to change recovery volume mode.
  • Page 118 Reboot to Windows ; the rebuild will occur automatically. ® Failed Hard Drive Member Power off. Replace the failed hard drive with a new one that is of equal or greater capacity. Reboot the system to IRST Option ROM by press Ctrl + I keys during the POST. Select the port of the destination disk for rebuilding, and then press Enter.
  • Page 119: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Lost BIOS password Before sending the motherboard for RMA repair, try to go over troubleshooting Clear the CMOS, but that will cause guide first to see if your got similar you to lose all customized settings in symptoms as mentioned below. the BIOS.
  • Page 120: Regulatory Notices

    EU REACH Regulation (Regulation EC No. 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and the This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Council), MSI provides the information of chemical Operation is subject to the following two conditions: substances in products at: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and http://www.msi.com/html/popup/csr/evmtprtt_pcm.
  • Page 121 MSI will comply with the product take entregar a una empresa autorizada para la recogida de back requirements at the end of life of MSI-branded estos residuos.
  • Page 122 MSI si adeguerà a tale Direttiva ritirando tutti i prodotti marchiati MSI che sono stati venduti all’interno dell’Unione Europea alla fine del loro ciclo di vita.
  • Page 123 Alternatively, please try the following help resources for further guidance. y Visit the MSI website for technical guide, BIOS updates, driver updates, and other information: http://www.msi.com y Register your product at: http://register.msi.com...

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