EVGA nForce 122-CK-NF68-XX User Manual

EVGA nForce 122-CK-NF68-XX User Manual

Evga mainboard user guide
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Summary of Contents for EVGA nForce 122-CK-NF68-XX

  • Page 2 User Guide EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard With Intel Processor Installation and Configuration 122-CK-NF68-XX November 2006...
  • Page 3 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard...
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Before You Begin… ...10 Parts NOT in the Kit... 10 Intentions of the Kit...xlix Introduction to the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard ...1 Features ...1 Engineered for Enthusiasts ...1 Extreme Overclocking ...2 Extreme FSB speeds...2 Extreme DDR2 Speeds...2 Comprehensive Overclocking Tools ...2 Designed for NVIDIA SLI Technology ...3...
  • Page 5 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Networking with NVIDIA nForce...5 NVIDIA Native Gigabit Ethernet ...5 NVIDIA FirstPacket™ technology ...5 NVIDIA DualNet® technology ...5 High Definition Audio (HDA) ...6 USB 2.0 ...6 Motherboard Specifications ...7 Unpacking and Parts Descriptions ...9 Unpacking ...9...
  • Page 6 Front Panel Header ... 21 IEEE 1394a (Optional) ... 22 USB Headers ... 23 Audio... 24 Fan Connections ... 25 COM1 (Optional)... 25 COM1 (Optional)... 26 FDD Connector ... 26 Speaker ... 26 Expansion Slots ... 27 PCI Slots ... 27 PCI Express x1 Slot ...
  • Page 7 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Network Boot Priority ... 39 CPU Internal Cache... 39 Quick Power On Self Test ... 40 First/Second/Third Boot Device ... 40 Boot Other Device... 40 Boot Up NumLock Status ... 40 Security Option...
  • Page 8 RAID Config ... 57 USB Config... 57 MAC Config ... 58 IEEE1394 controller ... 58 HD Audio ... 58 IDE HDD Block Mode ... 58 Onboard FDC Controller ... 58 Onboard Serial Port 1... 58 Power Management Setup Menu... 59 ACPI Function...
  • Page 9 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard NVIDIA Monitor... 70 NVIDIA nTune 5.0 ... 71 Manual Tuning ... 72 Adjust Motherboard Settings ... 72 System Voltages ... 74 System Fans ... 74 Memory Timing... 75 Adjust GPU Settings ... 77 Dynamic BIOS Access ...
  • Page 10 Performance... 98 First Packet... 98 TCP/IP Acceleration ... 100 Teaming ... 102 Installing Graphics Cards in an SLI Configuration...105 Building an SLI System ... 105 Determine Component and Operating System Needs ... 105 Install Your NVIDIA SLI-Ready Parts... 105 Install NVIDIA SLI Software... 107 Enable NVIDIA SLI...
  • Page 11: Before You Begin

    Parts NOT in the Kit This kit contains all the hardware necessary to install and connect your new EVGA nForce 680i SLI motherboard. However, it does not contain the following items that must be purchased separately to make the motherboard functional.
  • Page 12 Adobe Acrobat Reader NVIDIA MediaShield RAID Manager NVIDIA Networking (FirstPacket)
  • Page 13: Windows Xp Drivers Install

    When installing the graphics drivers, the resolution defaults to the lowest setting (typically 800 x 600), making your display very large. Adjust accordingly. 1. Insert the EVGA NVIDIA nForce 680i installation CD for the graphics drivers included in the kit. 2. Run setup.exe.
  • Page 14 This section describes how to configure the following NVIDIA software that is included on the CD in the kit from the NVIDIA Control Panel: NVIDIA Monitor Performance (NVIDIA nTune) Storage (NVIDIA MediaShield RAID Manager) Networking (NVIDIA FirstPacket) Figure 17. NVIDIA Control Panel, Select a Category Using the NVIDIA Software xiii...
  • Page 15: Nvidia Monitor

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard NVIDIA Monitor The NVIDIA Monitor application can be used at any time with any applications to view the real-time status of various system components. To display the NVIDIA Monitor, select Start All Programs NVIDIA Corporation NVIDIA This display shows the performance (usage) of the CPU, disk, memory, Monitor.
  • Page 16: Nvidia Ntune 5.0

    NVIDIA nTune 5.0 The Performance category is used to configure and manage NVIDIA nTune. The NVIDIA nTune program is a full-featured application for accessing, monitoring, and adjusting your system components (including bus speeds and voltages) with clear, user-friendly control panels. Overclock your system for the highest performance, or underclock it for a nearly silent operation.
  • Page 17: Manual Tuning

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard View system information Adjust custom rules Manual Tuning The Manual Tuning option provides the ability to adjust motherboard settings, adjust CPU settings, and make changes to the BIOS. Adjust Motherboard Settings...
  • Page 18: System Clocks

    Figure 19. Adjust Motherboard Settings (nTune) CAUTION: Increasing the voltage or the clock speed of a component may void its warranty due to exceeding recommended specifications. NVIDIA and the board manufacturer are not responsible for damage that may occur when component tolerances are exceeded. System Clocks This section of the Adjust Motherboard Settings allows you to adjust the reference clocks for the FSB, the SPP PCI Express, and the MCP PCI Express.
  • Page 19: System Fans

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard In this section of the Adjust Motherboard Settings you must understand what you are changing. Overvoltaging any of the components can result in damage to the components. From this menu, you can adjust the following voltages:...
  • Page 20: Memory Timing

    Memory Timing This section of the Adjust Motherboard Settings allows you to adjust various memory timings and cycles. Row Address Strobe Adjusts the minimum RAS active time. This is the amount of time between a row being activated by Precharge and deactivated. A row cannot be deactivated until tRAS has completed.
  • Page 21 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard RAS to RAS Delay The RAS-to-RAS delay (tRRD) is the is the amount of cycles it takes to activate the next bank of memory (this is the opposite of tRAS). The lower the timing the better the system performance.
  • Page 22: Adjust Gpu Settings

    Clock Drive Strength This value is filled in by the system and can not be changed by the user. Command Per Clock The Command Per Clock (tCPC) sets the Command Rate for the memory controller. The value shown cannot be changed Async Latency This value is filled in by the system and can not be changed by the user.
  • Page 23: Dynamic Bios Access

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Dynamic BIOS Access Dynamic BIOS Access allows you to change some of your system BIOS settings. The changes do not go into effect until you reboot your system. Since these changes are made to actual BIOS settings in the CMOS, the settings remain active until you change them again or restore the CMOS to the default settings.
  • Page 24: Available Bios Pages

    Available BIOS Pages In the Dynamic BIOS Access page, select a BIOS page that you want to edit from the Available BIOS Pages drop-down menu The BIOS page you select determines which items on the Dynamic BIOS Access menu are available for changing.
  • Page 25: Boot Up Setting

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Boot up Setting This section of the Dynamic BIOS Access menu allows you to set the following options: First/Second/Third Boot Device Removable Hard Disk CDROM Legacy LAN Disable Swap Floppy Drive...
  • Page 26: Automatic Tuning

    Automatic Tuning The NVIDIA nTune performance manager uses a complex searching algorithm to determine the best possible and most stable performance for you system. The nTune tuning engine pushes your system to the limits to test the highest possible performance settings. Because of this, there may be instances of system hangs during the testing.
  • Page 27 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Figure 22. Tune System Menu (nTune) xxvi...
  • Page 28: Management

    Introduction Management The Management option on the View System Information screen allows you to view hardware, software, and system information and adjust profiles. View System Information This screen is for information purposes only (you cannot make any changes to the information). The View System Information screen provides hardware, software, and system information that you can save to a log file to assist customer support or for your own uses.
  • Page 29 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Hardware and driver version information can be viewed and saved using this interface. The status of the system, including current system clock speeds, system temperatures, memory timings, and system voltages can be logged.
  • Page 30: Adjust Custom Rules

    Introduction Adjust Custom Rules The Adjust Custom Rules selection provides you with the ability to create a rule to define when the system should use a particular profile (.nsu files or .npe files) that was created from a manual or automatic tuning session. With custom rules, you can make your system run faster when you are playing games or make it run quieter when you are surfing the Internet.
  • Page 31: System Stability

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard System Stability System Stability lets you view your system’s status and perform system stability testing. To access the System Stability menu, select Corporation NVIDIA Control Panel Perform Stability Test Perform Stability Test to quickly diagnose potential system performance issues and to gather troubleshooting data.
  • Page 32: Storage

    You can designate a specific settings profile to use or check for the tests. You can indicate the duration of the test by changing the slider (slider values are from 10 minutes to 48 hours). Click display the NVPerformance Benchmark display. Click Results to view a pop-up window containing the testing results.
  • Page 33: Health

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Health The Health option on the Storage menu provides the ability for you to view the current storage configuration. View Storage Configuration The View Storage Configuration screendisplays the current configuration of your storage devices.
  • Page 34: Management

    Management The Management options on the Storage menu provides you with the ability to delete, rebuild, migrate, and synchronize arrays. Delete Array Use the following procedure to delete an array: 5. Click on Delete Array under Management to launch the NVIDIA Delete Array Wizard.
  • Page 35 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 7. Select an array you want to delete and press Completing the NVIDIA Delete Array Wizard you still want to delete the array selected. CAUTION: Be sure you are deleting the correct array. Once you click Finish, you no longer have access to any of the data on this array.
  • Page 36: Rebuild Array

    Rebuild Array The Rebuild Array option allows you to rebuild a disk in the array while the system is running without disrupting user or application access to the data set. Note: Rebuilding an array can take up to a full day to complete. This operation occurs in the background and does not impede any work being done.
  • Page 37 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 13. Select the disk in the array that was replaced and needs to be rebuilt. 14. Click Next. Completing the NVIDIA Rebuild Array Wizard you still want to rebuild the array selected.
  • Page 38: Migrating Array

    Migrating Array The Migrating Array option allows you to migrate a RAID array from one arry type to another. There are two reasons to use the Migrating Array option: Adding disks to an existing RAID array An example would be to change a 2-disk Striping array to a 3-disk Striping array.
  • Page 39 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 18. Select the array to migrate and click Selection window. 19. Select the RAID mode you want to migrate to and click Completing the NVIDIA Migrate Array Wizard you still want to migrate the array selected.
  • Page 40: Synchronize Array

    Synchronize Array This option is used to synchronize a selected array. Use the following procedure to rebuild an array: 21. Click on under Management to launch the NVIDIA Synchronize Array Synchronize Array Wizard. 22. Click to continue with the wizard and display the RAID Array Next Selection window.
  • Page 41 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 23. Select the array to synchronize and click Completing the NVIDIA Synchronize Array Wizard that you still want to synchronize the array selected. 24. Click Finish to begin synchronizing the array.
  • Page 42: Nvidia Networking

    NVIDIA Networking The NVIDIA Networking function configures and controls NVIDIA networking hardware integrated into the NVIDIA MCP. In addition to the typical network configuration functions that are controlled using the Windows Network Connections panel, the NVIDIA networking solution includes several key features that are accessed using the NVIDIA control panel.
  • Page 43: Performance

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Performance The Performance option on the Networking Control Panel Categories screen provides the means to configure FirstPacket settings and to set TCP/IP acceleration configuration. Figure 28. Networking Control Panel Categories First Packet...
  • Page 44 Use the following procedure to enable or disable the ability to have network traffic to prioritized for optimal performance: 25. Select Configure FirstPacket Settings Networking Control Panel Categories screen to display the Configure FirstPacket Settings screen. 26. Click the tab. Settings 27.
  • Page 45: Tcp/Ip Acceleration

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 28. Define the applications to accelerate by clicking FirstPacket. 29. Click to browse for an executable gamming applications. For example, if you want to accelerate a game such as Serious Sam 2, look for the and add it.
  • Page 46 Introduction In traditional networking environments, inspecting packets is laborious and affects CPU overhead, memory bandwidth, and overall system latency. In comparison, the NVIDIA TCP/IP Acceleration engine discards bad packets before the CPU detects them. In addition, good packets take an “express lane” and bypass the traditional “network stack”...
  • Page 47: Teaming

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Teaming NVIDIA Teaming technology improves network throughput by distributing traffic efficiently across all available Ethernet interfaces. In normal network conditions, both transmit and receive traffic are distributed. NVIDIA Teaming technology also improves network uploading time. If one of...
  • Page 48: Installing Graphics Cards In An Sli Configuration

    Use the following procedure to configure Teaming: 31. Select Start All Programs NVIDIA Corporation NVIDIA Control Panel to display the NVIDIA Control Panel. 32. Click on the networking icon to display the Networking Control Panel Categories. 33. Select Adjust Teaming configuration window.
  • Page 49 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard number of the GPUs you install. If you are going to SLI two graphics cards, you are going to require more power. As a rule, for one GPU you need a minimum of a 350 W power supply.
  • Page 50: Building An Sli System

    Introduction Intentions of the Kit This kit provides you with the motherboard and all connecting cables necessary to install the motherboard into a PC cabinet. If you are building a PC, you will use most of the cables provided in the kit. If however, you are replacing a motherboard, you will not need many of the cables.
  • Page 52: Install Nvidia Sli Software

    Thank you for buying the EVGA NFORCE 680i SLI Motherboard. This motherboard offers the tools and performance PC enthusiast’s demand. When combined with two SLI-Ready NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards, you get innovative NVIDIA SLI Technology for enhanced system performance. Features Engineered for Enthusiasts NVIDIA nForce®...
  • Page 53: Extreme Overclocking

    The front side bus (FSB) in the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI MCP is specified to run at 1333MHz to support existing and future FSB speeds. Through overclocking, however, the EVGA nForce 680i SLI MCP can deliver FSB speeds well beyond specification*. Get the headroom today for overclocking and/or future FSB speeds.
  • Page 54: Designed For Nvidia Sli Technology

    Look for other components including NVIDIA® GeForce® GPUs and system memory that have been certified by NVIDIA to deliver unmatched performance with EVGA nForce 680i SLI motherboards. For more information on SLI Certified components, visit Third PCIe Slot for Graphics Expansion Make sure your rig is ready for the future.
  • Page 55: Nvidia Mediashield Storage

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard NVIDIA MediaShield Storage NVIDIA MediaShield™ Storage offers a suite of features that safeguards your most important digital media assets; always reliable, scalable, and accessible which includes RAID and SATA drive support.
  • Page 56: Enable Nvidia Sli

    Networking with NVIDIA nForce NVIDIA networking delivers the highest network throughput at the lowest CPU utilization. The manageable and stable NVIDIA networking solution results in better networking management and a lower total cost of ownership. Only NVIDIA integrates this level of networking features to allow you to take your online experience to the next level.
  • Page 57: Appendix A. On-Board Led Codes

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard High Definition Audio (HDA) High definition audio brings consumer electronics quality sound to the PC delivering high quality sound from multiple channels. Using HDA, systems can deliver 192 kHz/32-bit quality for eight channels, supporting new audio formats.
  • Page 58: Motherboard Specifications

    Motherboard Specifications Size ATX form factor of 12 inch x 9.6 inch Microprocessor support Intel Core 2 Extreme, Intel Core 2 Quad, Intel Core 2 Duo, Pentium EE, and Pentium. Operating systems Supports Windows XP 32bit and Windows XP 64bit. Contains NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI MCP System Memory Dual-channel DDR2 800/667/533...
  • Page 59 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Onboard Audio Supports 8-channel audio Supports S/PDIF output Supports Jack-Sensing function Dual PCI Express x16 Support Supports 4 GB/sec (8 GB/sec concurrent) bandwidth Low power consumption and power management features Green Function...
  • Page 60: Unpacking And Parts Descriptions

    Unpacking The EVGA nForce 680i SLI motherboard comes with all the necessary cables for adding a motherboard to a new chassis. If you are replacing a motherboard, you may not need many of these cables. Be sure to inspect each piece of equipment shipped in the packing box. If anything is missing or damaged, contact your reseller.
  • Page 61 EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard The EVGA nForce 680i SLI motherboard with the 680i SPP and MCP processors is a PCI Express, SLI-ready motherboard. Figure 1 shows the motherboard and Figures 2 shows the back panel connectors.
  • Page 62 1. CPU Socket 2. NVIDIA SPP with passive heat sink 3. CPU fan connector 4. DDR DIMM Slots 0 - 3 5. 24-pin ATX Power Connector 6. FDD Connector 7. Front panel connector 8. AUX PEX Power connector 9. Serial-ATA connectors 10.
  • Page 63 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 1. PS/2 Mouse Port 2. PS/2 Keyboard Port 3. 1394a (Firewire) port 4. USB 2.0 ports 5. SPDIF output 6. Port 2-Channel 4-Channel Blue Line-In Line-In Green Line-Out Front Speaker Out...
  • Page 64: Hardware Installation

    This section will guide you through the installation of the motherboard. The topics covered in this section are: Preparing the motherboard Installing the CPU Installing the CPU fan Installing the memory Installing the motherboard Connecting cables and setting switches Safety Instructions To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury, always follow basic safety precautions.
  • Page 65: Preparing The Motherboard

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Preparing the Motherboard The motherboard shipped in the box does need to purchase a CPU, a CPU fan assembly, and memory to complete this installation. Installing the CPU Be very careful when handling the CPU. Hold the processor only by the edges and do not touch the bottom of the processor.
  • Page 66: Installing The Cpu Fan

    Installing the CPU Fan There are many different fan types that can be used with this motherboard. Follow the instruction that came with you fan assembly. Be sure that the fan orientation is correct for your chassis type and your fan assembly. Installing Memory DIMMs Your new motherboard has four 1.8V 240-pin slots for DDR2 memory.
  • Page 67: Installing The Motherboard

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Installing the Motherboard The sequence of installing the motherboard into the chassis depends on the chassis you are using and if you are replacing an existing motherboard or working with an empty chassis. Determine if it would be easier to make all the connections prior to this step or to secure the motherboard and then make all the connections.
  • Page 68: Connecting Cables And Setting Switches

    4. Ensure that the fan assembly is aligned with the chassis vents according to the fan assembly instruction. 5. Secure the motherboard with a minimum of eight-to-ten screws. Connecting Cables and Setting Switches This section takes you through all the connections and switch settings necessary on the motherboard.
  • Page 69: Power Connections

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Power Connections This motherboard requires an ATX power supply. To support a PCI Express motherboard with the addition of dual graphics cards using NVIDIA SLI technology, you are going to need a minimum of a 500W power supply. Make sure you have enough power to cover all the expansion cards you will be installing.
  • Page 70 8-pin ATX 12V Power ( PWR2 , the 8-pin ATX 12V power connection, is used to provide power to the PWR2 CPU. Align the pins to the connector and press firmly until seated. It is strongly recommended that you use an 8-pin ATX 12V power supply;...
  • Page 72: Connecting Internal Headers

    Connecting Internal Headers Front Panel Header The front panel header on this motherboard is one connector used to connect the following four cables: PWRLED Attach the front panel power LED cable to these two pins of the connector. The Power LED indicates the system’s status. When the system is in S0 status, the LED is on.
  • Page 73: Ieee 1394A (Optional)

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Table 2. Front Panel Header Pins Signal HD_PWR HD_LED HDA# HDR_BLNK_GRN PWRLED HDR_BLNK_YEL RESET FP_RESET# SWITCH_ON# PWRSW No Connect Empty IEEE 1394a (Optional) The IEEE 1394 expansion cable bracket is provided in the box but if you do not require the additional external connection you do not need to install it.
  • Page 74: Usb Headers

    USB Headers This motherboard contains four (4) USB 2.0 ports that are exposed on the rear panel of the chassis. The motherboard also contains two 10-pin internal header connectors onboard that can be used to connect an optional external bracket containing four (4) more USB 2.0 ports.
  • Page 76: Fan Connections

    Fan Connections There are two fan connections, the system fan and the CPU fan. The fan speed can be detected and viewed in the Both fans are automatically turned off after the system enters S3, S4 and S5 mode. Hardware Installation section of the CMOS Setup.
  • Page 77: Com1 (Optional)

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard COM1 (Optional) The motherboard kit provides an additional serial COM header for your machine. Connect one side of a switching cable to the header and then attach the serial COM device to the other side of the cable.
  • Page 78: Expansion Slots

    Expansion Slots The EVGA nForce 680i SLI motherboard contains six expansion slots, four PCI Express slots and two PCI slots. For a full list of PCI Express x16 graphics card supported by this motherboard, go to www.evga.com/products/. Figure 4. Expansion Slots...
  • Page 79: Pci Express X1 Slot

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard PCI Express x1 Slot There is two PCI Express x1 slots that are designed to accommodate less bandwidth-intensive cards, such as a modem or LAN card. The x1 slot provides 250 MB/sec bandwidth.
  • Page 80: Configuring The Bios

    Configuring the BIOS This section discusses how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided. This section includes the following information: Enter BIOS Setup Main Menu Standard CMOS Features Advanced BIOS Features Advanced Chipset Features Integrated Peripherals...
  • Page 81: Enter Bios Setup

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Enter BIOS Setup The BIOS is the communication bridge between hardware and software. Correctly setting the BIOS parameters is critical to maintain optimal system performance. Use the following procedure to verify/change BIOS settings.
  • Page 82 Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Standard CMOS Features Advanced BIOS Features Advanced Chipset Features Integrated Peripherals Power Management Setup PnP/PCI Configurations Esc : Quit F10 : Save & Exit Setup Time, Date, Hard Disk NVIDIA LinkBoost™ - Not Detected Figure 5.
  • Page 83 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard System Monitor Use this menu to monitor the real-time system status of your PC, including temperature, voltages, and fan speed. The following items on the CMOS Setup Utility main menu are commands...
  • Page 84: Standard Cmos Features Menu

    Standard CMOS Features Menu The Standard CMOS Features menu is used to configure the standard CMOS information, such as the date, time, HDD model, and so on. Use the keys to scroll through the options or press Page Down sub-menu. Use the arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose.
  • Page 85: Date And Time

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Date and Time Using the arrow keys, position the cursor over the month, day, and year. Use Page Up Page Down the weekday (Sun through Sat) cannot be changed. This field changes to correspond to the date you enter.
  • Page 86 Press to auto-detect IDE and SATA channels in the system. Once the Enter channel is detected, the values for Capacity, Cylinder, Heads, Precomp, Landing Zone, and Sector are automatically filled in. None There is no HDD installed or set. Auto The system can auto-detect the hard disk when booting up.
  • Page 87 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Drive A option allows you to select the kind of FDD to install. Drive A Options are: Drive A [1.44, 3.5 in.] Halt On [All , But Keyboard] None 360K, 5.25 in.
  • Page 88: Memory

    All, But Diskette The system boot does not stop for a diskette error but will stop for all other errors. All, But Disk/Key The system boot does not stop for a keyboard or disk error, but will stop for all other errors. Memory These settings are display-only values that are determined by the BIOS POST (Power-On Self Test).
  • Page 89: Advanced Bios Features

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Advanced BIOS Features Access the Advanced BIOS Features menu from the CMOS Utility Setup screen. Use the Page Up press to display the sub-menu. Use the Enter selector in the option you choose. To go back to the previous menu, press...
  • Page 90: Removable Device Priority

    Removable Device Priority Use this option to select the priority for removable device startup. Press to see the list of removable devices in your system. Use the to the various devices. Then use the or down in the list. To go back to the previous menu, press 1.
  • Page 91: Quick Power On Self Test

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Quick Power On Self Test Enabling this option allows the system to skip certain test while booting, which reduces the time needed to boot the system. Use the keys to toggle between...
  • Page 92: Security Option

    Security Option The Security Options allows you to require a password every time the system boots or only when you enter setup. Select access to the CMOS Setup screen. Select access the CMOS Setup screen and when the system boots. APIC Mode Use this function to enable or disable the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC).
  • Page 93: Advanced Chipset Features

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Advanced Chipset Features Select Advanced Chipset Features press to display the functions of the Advanced Chipset Functions menu. Enter Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Chipset Features System Clocks FSB & Memory Config...
  • Page 94: System Clocks

    System Clocks Select from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press System Clocks to display the System Clocks menu. From this menu, you are able to Enter specify frequency settings, HT multipliers, and Spread Spectrum settings. Note that in Figure 9, all of the options are listed. On the actual BIOS screen, you will need to scroll down to see all the options.
  • Page 95: Frequency Settings

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Frequency Settings CPU Freq, MHz This value is set by the CPU Multiplier (value cannot be changed by the user). FSB Reference Clock. MHz This value is set by the system (value cannot be changed by the user). To change the SLI-Ready memory, FSB memory, and memory timing, go to the FSB &...
  • Page 96: Ht Multiplier

    HT Multiplier nForce SPP > nForce MCP — — Use the Page Up Page Down options and set the link speed from the SPP chip to the MCP chip. Values through [1 x] [5 x]. nForce MCP < nForce SPP —...
  • Page 97: Fsb & Memory Config

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard FSB & Memory Config Select FSB & Memory Config press to display the FSB & Memory Config menu. This menu provides Enter the means to set SLI-Ready memory, FSB memory, and memory timing.
  • Page 98 When you select one of the CPUOC x% is set to and cannot be changed until Clock Mode Unlinked is set to Ready Memory Disable FSB and Memory Clock Mode Use the keys to scroll through the FSB and Page Up Page Down Memory Clock Mode options.
  • Page 99 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard or type in a new value. Note that the actual frequency that takes effect when the system reboots. Memory Timing Setting Press to display the Memory Timing Setting menu. Use this menu to Enter set optimal timings or to manually enter timings.
  • Page 100 Expert Use the keys to select Page Up Page Down is selected, all timing categories are enabled for manual input. Note that you should set the value to Optimal to use the manufacturers’ recommended values. Parameters Settings Current Value Memory Timing Setting [Expert] tCL (CAS Latency) [Auto(5)]...
  • Page 101: Cpu Configuration

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard CPU Configuration Select from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and CPU Configuration press to display the CPU Configuration menu. Enter Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Limit CPUID MaxVal x Intel SpeedStep...
  • Page 102: System Voltages

    TM1 & TM2 Enables support for both TM1 and TM2. C1E Enhanced Halt State Enabled, this function reduces the CPU power consumption when the CPU is idle. Idle occurs when the operating system issues a halt instruction. Execute Disable Bit When this function is disabled, it forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).
  • Page 103 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard CPU Core Use the Page Up Page Down select to automatically set the voltage level for the CPU Core. [Auto] CPU FSB This function defines the voltage level for the CPU FSB I/O (CPU VTT).
  • Page 104: Nvmem Memory Test

    NVMEM Memory Test This function defines whether you run the NVIDIA memory testing module during POST. The options are Fast, Medium, Slow, and Disable. PCI Clocks This function allows you to enable the PCI clocks or select PCI clocks automatically enabled/disabled. Load Timing/Voltage Set This function loads the system voltages and timing settings that were defined in the System Voltages menu.
  • Page 105: Save Timing/Voltage Set

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Save Timing/Voltage Set This function saves the system voltages and timing settings that were defined in the System Voltages menu. There are four profile options that can be loaded. The default setting is for all settings.
  • Page 106: Audio

    Integrated Peripherals Menu Select Integrated Peripherals press to display the Integrated Peripherals menu. Enter Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility IDE Function Setup RAID Config USB Config MAC Config IEEE1394 controller HD Audio IDE HDD Block Mode Onboard FDC Controller Onboard Serial Port 1 :Move Enter:Select...
  • Page 107: Ide Function Setup

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard IDE Function Setup Press to display the IDE Function Setup menu. Enter OnChip IDE Channel0 Primary Master Primary Slave Primary Master UDMA Primary Slave UDMA IDE DMA transfer access Serial-ATA Controller...
  • Page 108: Raid Config

    RAID Config Press to display the RAID Config menu. Enter RAID Enable SATA 0 Primary RAID SATA 0 Secondary RAID SATA 1 Primary RAID SATA 1 Secondary RAID SATA 2 Primary RAID SATA 2 Secondary RAID RAID Enable Use this function to enable or disable RAID.
  • Page 109: Mac Config

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard MAC Config Press Enter to display the MAC Config menu. MAC0 LAN MAC1 LAN MACx LAN Use these functions to set the MAC0 and/or MAC1 LANs to disable their functions. IEEE1394 controller This function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to enable or disable the IEEE1394 (Firewire) interface.
  • Page 110: Power Management Setup Menu

    Power Management Setup Menu Select Power Management Setup press to display the Power Management Setup menu. Enter Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility ACPI function APCI Suspend Type Soft-Off by PBTN WOL(PME#) From Soft-Off Power-on by Alarm Day of Month Alarm Time (hh:mm:ss) Alarm POWER ON Function KB Power ON Password...
  • Page 111: Soft-Off By Pbnt

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Soft-Off by PBNT This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to set Soft- Off by PBNT to [Instant-Off] WOL(PME#) From Soft-Off This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to enable or disable WOL(PMW#) from soft-off.
  • Page 112: Pnp/Pci Configuration Menu

    Hot Key Power On When is selected, the [Hot Key] enabled so that you must select a keyboard key as the hot key. To select a hot key use though Ctrl+F1 POWER ON Function KB Power ON Password Hot Key Power On Mouse Left Mouse Right Any Key...
  • Page 113: Init Display First

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Init Display First This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to define if the initial display is in the PCI slot or in the PCI Express slot. Options are [PCI Slot] [PCIEx].
  • Page 114: Irq Resources

    IRQ Resources To enable this field for input, set . With this field enabled, press [Manual] IRQ-5 assigned to IRQ-9 assigned to IRQ-10 assigned to IRQ-11 assigned to IRQ-14 assigned to IRQ-15 assigned to Use Legacy ISA for devices compliant with the original PC AT Bus specification.
  • Page 115: System Monitor Menu

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard System Monitor Menu Select from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press System Monitor display the System Monitor menu. Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Dynamic Fan Control Board CPU Core...
  • Page 116: Dynamic Fan Control

    Dynamic Fan Control Press to display the Dynamic Fan Control menu. Enter CPU Fan Speed Control If temp > 70ºC, Set Fan Speed 100% If temp < 30ºC, Set Fan Speed Manual Fan Speed, % Chassis Fan Speed Control If temp > 60ºC, Set Fan Speed 100% If temp <...
  • Page 117 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard...
  • Page 118: Software Installation

    Software Installation Note: It is important to remember that before installing the driver CD that is shipped in the kit, you need to load your operating system. The motherboard supports Windows XP 32bit and 64bit and is Vista-capable. The kit comes with a CD that contains utility drivers and additional NVIDIA software.
  • Page 119: Windows Xp Drivers Install

    When installing the graphics drivers, the resolution defaults to the lowest setting (typically 800 x 600), making your display very large. Adjust accordingly. 3. Insert the EVGA NVIDIA nForce 680i installation CD for the graphics drivers included in the kit. 4. Run setup.exe...
  • Page 120: Using The Nvidia Software

    This section describes how to configure the following NVIDIA software that is included on the CD in the kit from the NVIDIA Control Panel: NVIDIA Monitor Performance (NVIDIA nTune) Storage (NVIDIA MediaShield RAID Manager) Networking (NVIDIA FirstPacket) Figure 17. NVIDIA Control Panel, Select a Category Using the NVIDIA Software...
  • Page 121 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard NVIDIA Monitor The NVIDIA Monitor application can be used at any time with any applications to view the real-time status of various system components. To display the NVIDIA Monitor, select Start All Programs NVIDIA Corporation NVIDIA .
  • Page 122 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard NVIDIA nTune 5.0 The Performance category is used to configure and manage NVIDIA nTune. The NVIDIA nTune program is a full-featured application for accessing, monitoring, and adjusting your system components (including bus speeds and voltages) with clear, user-friendly control panels.
  • Page 123: Adjust Motherboard Settings

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Management View system information Adjust custom rules Manual Tuning The Manual Tuning option provides the ability to adjust motherboard settings, adjust CPU settings, and make changes to the BIOS. Adjust Motherboard Settings...
  • Page 124 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Figure 19. Adjust Motherboard Settings (nTune) CAUTION: Increasing the voltage or the clock speed of a component may void its warranty due to exceeding recommended specifications. NVIDIA and the board manufacturer are not responsible for damage that may occur when component tolerances are exceeded.
  • Page 125: System Voltages

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard System Voltages CAUTION: Overvoltaging any component can result in damage. In this section of the Adjust Motherboard Settings you must understand what you are changing. Overvoltaging any of the components can result in damage to the components.
  • Page 126 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Memory Timing This section of the Adjust Motherboard Settings allows you to adjust various memory timings and cycles. When you select an option, information explaining the selection is displayed in the area below the Memory Timing box.
  • Page 127 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard RAS to RAS Delay The RAS-to-RAS delay (tRRD) is the is the amount of cycles it takes to activate the next bank of memory (this is the opposite of tRAS). The lower the timing the better the system performance.
  • Page 128: Adjust Gpu Settings

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Clock Drive Strength This value is filled in by the system and can not be changed by the user. Command Per Clock The Command Per Clock (tCPC) sets the Command Rate for the memory controller.
  • Page 129 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Dynamic BIOS Access Dynamic BIOS Access allows you to change some of your system BIOS settings. The changes do not go into effect until you reboot your system. Since these changes are made to actual BIOS settings in the CMOS, the settings remain active until you change them again or restore the CMOS to the default settings.
  • Page 130: General Settings

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Available BIOS Pages In the Dynamic BIOS Access page, select a BIOS page that you want to edit from the Available BIOS Pages drop-down menu The BIOS page you select determines which items on the Dynamic BIOS Access menu are available for changing.
  • Page 131 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Boot up Setting This section of the Dynamic BIOS Access menu allows you to set the following options: First/Second/Third Boot Device Removable Hard Disk CDROM Legacy LAN Disable Swap Floppy Drive...
  • Page 132: Automatic Tuning

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Automatic Tuning The NVIDIA nTune performance manager uses a complex searching algorithm to determine the best possible and most stable performance for you system. The nTune tuning engine pushes your system to the limits to test the highest possible performance settings.
  • Page 133 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Figure 22. Tune System Menu (nTune)
  • Page 134: Management

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Management The Management option on the View System Information screen allows you to view hardware, software, and system information and adjust profiles. View System Information This screen is for information purposes only (you cannot make any changes to the information).
  • Page 135 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Hardware and driver version information can be viewed and saved using this interface. The status of the system, including current system clock speeds, system temperatures, memory timings, and system voltages can be logged.
  • Page 136: Adjust Custom Rules

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Adjust Custom Rules The Adjust Custom Rules selection provides you with the ability to create a rule to define when the system should use a particular profile ( files or .nsu .npe...
  • Page 137: Perform Stability Test

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard System Stability System Stability lets you view your system’s status and perform system stability testing. To access the System Stability menu, select Start All Programs NVIDIA Corporation NVIDIA Control and select...
  • Page 138 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard You can designate a specific settings profile to use or check for the tests. You can indicate the duration of the test by changing the slider (slider values are from 10 minutes to 48 hours). Click display the NVPerformance Benchmark display.
  • Page 139 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Health The Health option on the Storage menu provides the ability for you to view the current storage configuration. View Storage Configuration The View Storage Configuration screendisplays the current configuration of your storage devices.
  • Page 140: Management

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Management The Management options on the Storage menu provides you with the ability to delete, rebuild, migrate, and synchronize arrays. Delete Array Use the following procedure to delete an array: 7. Click on...
  • Page 141 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 9. Select an array you want to delete and press Completing the NVIDIA Delete Array Wizard you still want to delete the array selected. CAUTION: Be sure you are deleting the correct array. Once you click Finish, you no longer have access to any of the data on this array.
  • Page 142 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Rebuild Array The Rebuild Array option allows you to rebuild a disk in the array while the system is running without disrupting user or application access to the data set. Note: Rebuilding an array can take up to a full day to complete.
  • Page 143 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 16. Click Next Completing the NVIDIA Rebuild Array Wizard you still want to rebuild the array selected. 17. Click to begin the rebuild of the selected disk in the array. (Remember Finish that rebuilding a disk can take up to a full day.)
  • Page 144 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Migrating Array The Migrating Array option allows you to migrate a RAID array from one arry type to another. There are two reasons to use the Migrating Array option: Adding disks to an existing RAID array An example would be to change a 2-disk Striping array to a 3-disk Striping array.
  • Page 145 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 20. Select the array to migrate and click Selection window. 21. Select the RAID mode you want to migrate to and click Completing the NVIDIA Migrate Array Wizard you still want to migrate the array selected.
  • Page 146 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Synchronize Array This option is used to synchronize a selected array. Use the following procedure to rebuild an array: 23. Click on under Management to launch the NVIDIA Synchronize Array Synchronize Array Wizard.
  • Page 147 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 25. Select the array to synchronize and click Completing the NVIDIA Synchronize Array Wizard that you still want to synchronize the array selected. 26. Click Finish to begin synchronizing the array.
  • Page 148: Nvidia Networking

    Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard NVIDIA Networking The NVIDIA Networking function configures and controls NVIDIA networking hardware integrated into the NVIDIA MCP. In addition to the typical network configuration functions that are controlled using the Windows Network Connections panel, the NVIDIA networking solution includes several key features that are accessed using the NVIDIA control panel.
  • Page 149 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Performance The Performance option on the Networking Control Panel Categories screen provides the means to configure FirstPacket settings and to set TCP/IP acceleration configuration. Figure 28. Networking Control Panel Categories First Packet...
  • Page 150 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Use the following procedure to enable or disable the ability to have network traffic to prioritized for optimal performance: 27. Select Configure FirstPacket Settings Networking Control Panel Categories screen to display the Configure FirstPacket Settings screen.
  • Page 151 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 30. Define the applications to accelerate by clicking FirstPacket. 31. Click to browse for an executable gamming applications. For example, if you want to accelerate a game such as Serious Sam 2, look for the and add it.
  • Page 152 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard In traditional networking environments, inspecting packets is laborious and affects CPU overhead, memory bandwidth, and overall system latency. In comparison, the NVIDIA TCP/IP Acceleration engine discards bad packets before the CPU detects them. In addition, good packets take an “express lane”...
  • Page 153 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Teaming NVIDIA Teaming technology improves network throughput by distributing traffic efficiently across all available Ethernet interfaces. In normal network conditions, both transmit and receive traffic are distributed. NVIDIA Teaming technology also improves network uploading time. If one of...
  • Page 154 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Use the following procedure to configure Teaming: 33. Select Start All Programs NVIDIA Corporation NVIDIA Control Panel to display the NVIDIA Control Panel. 34. Click on the networking icon to display the Networking Control Panel Categories.
  • Page 155 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Installing Graphics Cards in an SLI Configuration NVIDIA SLI (Scalable Link Interface) is a revolutionary technology that allows two NVIDIA SLI graphics cards to work together to deliver incredible 3D graphics performance.
  • Page 156 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard While NVIDIA recommends an SLI-Ready power supply, the following table provides some general power supply recommendations based on testing performed in the NVIDIA SLI validation lab. Table 6. Recommended Power Supplies...
  • Page 157 Now that you have obtained the necessary NVIDIA SLI-Ready parts, it is time to configure the system. This procedure assumes you have already installed the motherboard. The EVGA nForce 680i SLI motherboard has three PCI Express slots. The two outer slots (black) are used for the SLI configuration. The middle slot (blue) is used for CPU physics and is not configured into the SLI configuration.
  • Page 158 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Use the following procedure to build your NVIDIA SLI-Ready PC system: 1. Install two SLI-Ready graphic cards into the two outer black PCI Express x16 slots on the motherboard. Be sure to seat the graphic cards into the connectors.
  • Page 159 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 2. Connect the PCI Express supplementary power connectors from the system power supply to each of the graphic cards: 3. Install the NVIDIA SLI connector across the two outer graphics cards as shown below.
  • Page 160 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Install NVIDIA SLI Software Upon power up, the operating system recognizes the new NVIDIA SLI-Ready components and displays the Found New Hardware message. Your motherboard shipped with a set of drivers that you must install. Once these drivers are installed, reboot your system.
  • Page 161 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Enable NVIDIA SLI At this point, you need to enable NVIDIA SLI. You can do this either by clicking on the SLI capable system Control Panel. To launch the NVIDIA Control Panel, select Corporation NVIDIA Control Panel.
  • Page 162 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard The system reboots to apply the setting and display the following message upon reboot: Congratulations on your new NVIDIA SLI-Ready PC system.
  • Page 163 On-board LED Codes Table 7. On-board LED Codes Code(hex) Name Description Reserved Jumps to E000 Execution of POST routines in E000 segment Early Superio Init Early Initialized the super IO Reserved Blank video Reset Video controller Reserved Init KBC Keyboard controller init KB test Test the Keyboard Reserved...
  • Page 164 Code(hex) Name Description InitCPU CPU ID and initialize L1/L2 cache Reserved Reserved Setup Interrupt Initialize first 120 interrupt vectors Vector Table with SPURIOUS_INT_HDLR and initialize INT 00h-1Fh according to INT_TBL CMOS Battery Check Test CMOS and check Battery Fail Early PM Early PM initialization Reserved Re-initial KB...
  • Page 165 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Code(hex) Name Reserved Test DMA Page Registers Reserved Reserved Test Timer Reserved Test 8259-1 Mask Reserved Test 8259-2 Mask Reserved Reserved Test Stuck Interrupt Reserved Reinit serial port Reserved EISA Test...
  • Page 166 Code(hex) Name Description Reserved CPU display Detect CPU speed and display CPU vendor specific version string and turn on all necessary CPU features Reserved PnP Init Display PnP logo and PnP early init Reserved Setup Virus Setup virus protect according to protect setup Reserved Awdflash Load If required, will auto load Awdflash.
  • Page 167 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Code(hex) Name Detect HDD Reserved Detect serial ports Reserved Reserved Detect parallel ports Reserved HDD Write Protect Reserved Reserved POST error check Reserved Reserved Security Check Write CMOS Display PNP USB Final Init...
  • Page 168 Code(hex) Name Description Boot Attempt Set low stack Boot via INT 19h. Base CPU test Read/Write CPU registers Memory Presence Base memory detect Early Memory Board Initialization Extend Memory Turn on extended memory, cache initialization Special Display First display initialization Early Shadow Early shadow enable for fast boot Cache presence...
  • Page 169 Installing and Configuring the EVGA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Code(hex) Name Controller Init Memory Controller Init Memory Controller Init Memory Controller Init Memory Controller Init Memory Controller Init PCI Express Init PCI Express Init Spread Spectrum Init Spread Spectrum Init Spread...

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