Nvidia nForce 680i User Manual
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Nvidia nForce 680i User Manual

Nforce 680i sli motherboard
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User Guide
NVIDIA nForce 680i
SLI Motherboard
Installation and Configuration
September 2006
DU-02640-001_v01

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Summary of Contents for Nvidia nForce 680i

  • Page 1 User Guide NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Installation and Configuration September 2006 DU-02640-001_v01...
  • Page 2 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Before You Begin… ..................xii Parts NOT in the Kit..................Intentions of the Kit ..................xiii Introduction to the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard ......1 Features ......................1 Engineered for Enthusiasts ................1 Designed for NVIDIA SLI Technology ..............3 True 2 x16 PCI Express SLI Support............3...
  • Page 4 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard High Definition Audio (HDA) ................6 2.0......................6 Motherboard Specifications ................7 Unpacking and Parts Descriptions ...............9 Equipment ......................9 NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard ...............10 Hardware Installation .................13 Safety Instructions ..................13 Preparing the Motherboard ................14...
  • Page 5 COM1 (Optional)..................25 COM1 (Optional)..................26 FDD Connector ....................26 Speaker ......................26 Expansion Slots ...................27 PCI Slots ....................27 PCI Express x1 Slot ..................28 PCI Express x16 Slots................28 Jumper Settings ....................28 Clear CMOS Jumper: CLR_CMOS ..............28 Configuring the BIOS ..................29 Enter BIOS Setup ....................30 Main Menu......................30 Standard CMOS Features Menu...
  • Page 6 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Boot Up NumLock Status................40 Security Option....................41 APIC Mode ....................41 MPS Version Control For OS .................41 Full Screen LOGO Show ................41 Advanced Chipset Features ................42 System Clocks .....................43 Frequency Settings ..................44 HT Multiplier ....................45...
  • Page 7 PCI/VGA Palette Snoop ................63 Maximum Payload Size.................63 System Monitor Menu ..................64 Dynamic Fan Control..................65 Software Installation ..................67 Windows XP Drivers Install ................68 Using the NVIDIA Software ...............69 NVIDIA Monitor....................70 NVIDIA nTune 5.0 ...................71 Manual Tuning ....................72 Adjust Motherboard Settings..............72 System Voltages ..................74...
  • Page 8 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard System Fans ....................74 Memory Timing..................75 Adjust GPU Settings .................77 Dynamic BIOS Access ..................78 Available BIOS Pages ................79 General Settings ..................79 Advanced Settings ...................79 Boot up Setting..................80 Automatic Tuning ..................81 Management ....................83 View System Information................83...
  • Page 9 Building an SLI System ..................105 Determine Component and Operating System Needs ........Install Your NVIDIA SLI-Ready Parts ............Install NVIDIA SLI Software ............... Enable NVIDIA SLI..................111 Appendix A. On-board LED Codes .............113 Index ......................121...
  • Page 10 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard List of Figures Figure 1. NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Layout........11 Figure 2. Chassis Backpanel Connectors ............12 Figure 3. PWR1 Motherboard Connector............18 Figure 4. Expansion Slots ................27 Figure 5. BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Menu ..........31...
  • Page 11 Figure 24. Adjust Custom Rules (nTune) ............85 Figure 25. Perform Stability Test................86 Figure 26. Storage Control Panel Categories (MediaShield)........87 Figure 27. View Storage Configuration (MediaShield) ..........88 Figure 28. Networking Control Panel Categories ..........98...

  • Page 12: Before You Begin

    Graphics Card This motherboard is capable of using the NVIDIA SLI technology. To utilize this technology requires an SLI Kit from NVIDIA and two SLI- capable graphics cards. When ordering a graphics card, be sure it is a PCI Express card. The kit does contain the SLI connector used to connect the two graphics cards.

  • Page 13: Intentions Of The Kit

    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 15: Introduction To The Nvidia Nforce 680I Sli Motherboard

    Introduction to the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Thank you for buying the NVIDIA NFORCE 680i SLI Motherboard. This motherboard offers the tools and performance PC enthusiasts demand. When combined with two SLI-Ready NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards, you get innovative NVIDIA SLI Technology for enhanced system performance.

  • Page 16: Extreme Ddr2 Speeds

    NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI MCPs were designed for overclocking. Extreme FSB speeds 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 NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI MCP can deliver FSB speeds well beyond specification*.

  • Page 17: Designed For Nvidia Sli Technology

    Designed for NVIDIA SLI Technology NVIDIA® SLI™ technology is a revolutionary platform innovation that allows users to intelligently scale graphics performance by combining multiple NVIDIA graphics solutions in a single system with an NVIDIA nForce SLI MCP. True 2 x16 PCI Express SLI Support Two full-bandwidth 16-lane PCI Express links ensure maximum graphics performance for next-generation GPUs and games.

  • Page 18: Nvidia Mediashield Storage

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 19: Networking With Nvidia Nforce

    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 20: High Definition Audio (Hda)

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 21: Motherboard Specifications

    Intel Core 2 Quad, Intel Core 2 Duo, Pentium EE, 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 " SLI-Ready Memory up to 1200 MHz "...
  • Page 22 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 23: Unpacking And Parts Descriptions

    Unpacking and Parts Descriptions The NVIDIA 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 24: Nvidia Nforce 680I Sli Motherboard

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard back panels of the chassis. SATA Signal Cable (Qty 6) Used to support the Serial ATA protocol and each one connects a single drive to the motherboard Comm2 Bracket Cable (Optional)

  • Page 25: Figure 1. Nvidia Nforce 680I Sli Motherboard Layout

    Unpacking and Parts Description 1. CPU Socket 10. NVIDIA MCP 19. Power o/off switch 2. NVIDIA SPP with passive heat sink 11. Floppy drive connector 20. Reset switch 3. CPU fan connector 12. Two Serial-ATA connectors 21. On-board speaker 4. DDR DIMM Slots 0 - 3 13.

  • Page 26: Figure 2. Chassis Backpanel Connectors

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 6-Channel/8-Channel Blue Line-In Line-In Line-In Green Line-Out Front Speaker Out...

  • Page 27: Hardware Installation

    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 28: Preparing The Motherboard

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Preparing the Motherboard The motherboard shipped in the box does contain a CPU or memory. You need to purchase a CPU, a CPU fan assembly, and memory to complete this installation.

  • Page 29: Installing The Cpu Fan

    Hardware Installation 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 30: Installing The Motherboard

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 31: Connecting Cables And Setting Switches

    Hardware Installation 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 32: Power Connections

    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 33: 8-Pin Atx 12V Power (Pwr2)

    Hardware Installation 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. Connect a four-pin power plug to pins 1, 2, 5, and 6.

  • Page 34: Connecting Ide Hard Disk Drives

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Connecting IDE Hard Disk Drives The IDE connector supports Ultra ATA 133/100/66 IDE hard disk drives. 1. Connect the blue connector (the cable end with a single connector) to the motherboard.

  • Page 35: Connecting Internal Headers

    Hardware Installation 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 HD_LED Connect cable to these two pins of the connector. RESET The Power LED indicates the system’s status.

  • Page 36: Ieee 1394A (Optional)

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Table 2. Front Panel Header Pins Signal In/Out Description HD_PWR Hard disk LED pull-up to +5V HD_LED HDA# Hard disk active LED HDR_BLNK_GRN Front panel green light PWRLED HDR_BLNK_YEL Front panel yellow light...

  • Page 37: Usb Headers

    Hardware Installation 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 38: Audio

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Audio The audio connector supports HD audio standard and provides two kinds of audio output choices: the Front Audio, the Rear Audio. The front Audio supports re-tasking function. Table 5. Front Audio Connector...

  • Page 39: Fan Connections

    Hardware Installation Fan Connections There are two fan connections, the system fan and the CPU fan. The fan speed can be detected and viewed in the section of the CMOS Setup. PC Health Status Both fans are automatically turned off after the system enters S3, S4 and S5 mode.

  • Page 40: Com1 (Optional)

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 41: Expansion Slots

    Hardware Installation Expansion Slots The NVIDIA 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.ncvidia.com/estore. 1 - PCI Express...

  • Page 42: Pci Express X1 Slot

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard PCI Express x1 Slot There is one PCI Express x1 slot that is designed to accommodate less bandwidth-intensive cards, such as a modem or LAN card. The x1 slot provides 250 MB/sec bandwidth.

  • Page 43: 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 44: Enter Bios Setup

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 45: Figure 5. Bios Cmos Setup Utility Main Menu

    Esc : Quit : Select Item F10 : Save & Exit Setup Time, Date, Hard Disk Type.., NVIDIA LinkBoost™ - Not Detected SLI-Ready memory - Disabled Figure 5. BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Menu Standard CMOS Features Use this menu to set up the basic system configuration.
  • Page 46 The following items on the CMOS Setup Utility main menu are commands rather than submenus: Load Defaults Use this command to load the NVIDIA LinkBoost technology settings for LinkBoost-enabled systems. Load default system settings for standard systems. Set Password Use this command to set, change, and disable the password used to access the BIOS menu.

  • Page 47: Standard Cmos Features Menu

    Configuring the BIOS 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 Page Up keys to scroll through the options or press to display the Page Down Enter...

  • Page 48: Date And Time

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 keys to scroll through dates and times. Note that the weekday (Sun through Sat) cannot be changed. This field changes to correspond to the date you enter.
  • Page 49 Configuring the BIOS 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 50: Drive A

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Drive A option allows you to select the kind of FDD to install. Drive A Options are: Press ENTER to display sub-menu Drive A [1.44, 3.5 in.] Halt On [All , But Keyboard]...

  • Page 51: Memory

    Configuring the BIOS 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.

  • Page 52: Advanced Bios Features

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Advanced BIOS Features Access the Advanced BIOS Features menu from the CMOS Utility Setup screen. Use the keys to scroll through the options or Page Up Page Down to display the sub-menu. Use the !" arrow keys to position the...

  • Page 53: Removable Device Priority

    Configuring the BIOS Removable Device Priority Use this option to select the priority for removable device startup. Press Enter to see the list of removable devices in your system. Use the !" arrow keys to go to the various devices. Then use the keys to move the device priority up –...

  • Page 54: Quick Power On Self Test

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 Page Up Page Down...

  • Page 55: Security Option

    Configuring the BIOS Security Option The Security Options allows you to require a password every time the system boots or only when you enter setup. Select to require a password to gain Setup access to the CMOS Setup screen. Select to require a password to System access the CMOS Setup screen and when the system boots.

  • Page 56: Advanced Chipset Features

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Advanced Chipset Features Select from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and Advanced Chipset Features press to display the functions of the Advanced Chipset Functions menu. Enter Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility...

  • Page 57: System Clocks

    Configuring the BIOS System Clocks Select from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press System Clocks Enter to display the System Clocks menu. From this menu, you are able to specify frequency settings, HT multipliers, and Spread Spectrum settings. Note that in Figure 9, all of the options are listed.

  • Page 58: Frequency Settings

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 59: Ht Multiplier

    Configuring the BIOS HT Multiplier nForce SPP > nForce MCP — — Use the keys to scroll through the HT multiplier Page Up Page Down options and set the link speed from the SPP chip to the MCP chip. Values through [1 x] [5 x].

  • Page 60: Fsb & Memory Config

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard FSB & Memory Config Select from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and 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 61 Configuring the BIOS When you select one of the options, the CPUOC x% FSB - Memory is set to and cannot be changed until Clock Mode Unlinked SLI- is set to Ready Memory Disable FSB and Memory Clock Mode Use the keys to scroll through the FSB and Page Up Page Down...

  • Page 62: Memory Timing Setting

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard or type in a new value. Note that the reflects the Actual MEM (DDR) 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 63 Configuring the BIOS " Expert Use the keys to select . When Expert Page Up Page Down Expert 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.

  • Page 64: Cpu Configuration

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 CPU Configuration Limit CPUID MaxVal...

  • Page 65: System Voltages

    Configuring the BIOS " 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 66 [Auto] voltage. nForce SPP This function defines the core voltage level for the NVIDIA nForce SPP chip. Use the Page Up Page Down keys to select a voltage (1.25V, 1.30V, 1.35V, 1.40V, 1.45V, 1.50V, or 1.55V) or select...

  • Page 67: Nvmem Memory Test

    Configuring the BIOS 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...

  • Page 68: Save Timing/Voltage Set

    , the APIC Disabled timer is used. NVIDIA GPU Ex To enable or disable this function you need to have the NVIDIA® ForceWare® graphics driver with NVIDIA EX support. When enabled, the system uses the optimized NVIDIA EX graphics driver. LinkBoost The LinkBoost®...

  • Page 69: Integrated Peripherals Menu

    Configuring the BIOS Integrated Peripherals Menu Select from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and Integrated Peripherals press to display the Integrated Peripherals menu. Enter Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Integrated Peripherals # # # # IDE Function Setup [Press Enter] Item Help # # # # RAID Config...

  • Page 70: Ide Function Setup

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard IDE Function Setup Press to display the IDE Function Setup menu. Enter OnChip IDE Channel0 [Enabled] Primary Master [Auto] Primary Slave [Auto] Primary Master UDMA [Auto] Primary Slave UDMA [Auto] IDE DMA transfer access...

  • Page 71: Raid Config

    Configuring the BIOS RAID Config Press to display the RAID Config menu. Enter RAID Enable [Enabled] SATA 0 Primary RAID [Disabled] SATA 0 Secondary RAID [Disabled] SATA 1 Primary RAID [Disabled] SATA 1 Secondary RAID [Disabled] SATA 2 Primary RAID [Disabled] SATA 2 Secondary RAID...

  • Page 72: Mac Config

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard MAC Config Press to display the MAC Config menu. Enter MAC0 LAN [Enabled] MAC1 LAN [Disabled] MACx LAN Use these functions to set the MAC0 and/or MAC1 LANs to Auto disable their functions.

  • Page 73: Power Management Setup Menu

    Configuring the BIOS Power Management Setup Menu Select from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and Power Management Setup press to display the Power Management Setup menu. Enter Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Power Management Setup ACPI function [Enabled] Item Help APCI Suspend Type [S1&S3] Soft-Off by PBTN...

  • Page 74: Soft-Off By Pbnt

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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] [Delay 4 Sec] 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 75: Pnp/Pci Configuration Menu

    Configuring the BIOS Hot Key Power On When is selected, the function is [Hot Key] Hot key Power On enabled so that you must select a keyboard key as the hot key. To select a hot key use though Ctrl+F1 Ctrl+F12 POWER ON Function [Hot key]...

  • Page 76: Init Display First

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 77: Irq Resources

    Configuring the BIOS IRQ Resources To enable this field for input, set Resources Controlled By . With this field enabled, press to see options. Enter [Manual] IRQ-5 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-9 assigned to [Reserved] IRQ-10 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-11 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-14 assigned to...

  • Page 78: System Monitor Menu

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard System Monitor Menu Select from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter System Monitor display the System Monitor menu. Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility System Monitor # Dynamic Fan Control...

  • Page 79: Dynamic Fan Control

    Configuring the BIOS Dynamic Fan Control Press to display the Dynamic Fan Control menu. Enter CPU Fan Speed Control [SmartFan] If temp > 70ºC, Set Fan Speed 100% If temp < 30ºC, Set Fan Speed Manual Fan Speed, % Chassis Fan Speed Control [Manual] If temp >...
  • Page 80 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard This page is blank.

  • Page 81: Software Installation

    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. The CD that has been shipped with your NVIDIA motherboard contains the...

  • Page 82: 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 NVIDIA nForce 680i installation CD for the graphics drivers included in the kit. Note: If you have multiple graphics cards installed, you will be asked multiple times for all events once the drivers are installed.

  • Page 83: Using The Nvidia Software

    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.

  • Page 84: Nvidia Monitor

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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...

  • Page 85: Nvidia Ntune 5.0

    Using NVIDIA Software 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 86: Manual Tuning

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 87: Figure 19. Adjust Motherboard Settings (Ntune)

    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 88: System Voltages

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 89: Memory Timing

    Using NVIDIA Software 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 90 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 91: Adjust Gpu Settings

    Using NVIDIA Software 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 92: Dynamic Bios Access

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 93: Available Bios Pages

    Using NVIDIA Software 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. To edit an item, select an option from the drop-down menus associated with each item.

  • Page 94: Boot Up Setting

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 "...

  • Page 95: Automatic Tuning

    Using NVIDIA Software 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 96: Figure 22. Tune System Menu (Ntune)

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Figure 22. Tune System Menu (nTune)

  • Page 97: Management

    Using NVIDIA Software 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 98 The status of the system, including current system clock speeds, system temperatures, memory timings, and system voltages can be logged. Versions of NVIDIA software and other system software are listed under Software information. Detailed CPU and memory information is displayed when you double-click on a processor or DIMM listed under Hardware information.

  • Page 99: Adjust Custom Rules

    Using NVIDIA Software 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 files) that was created from a manual or automatic tuning session.

  • Page 100: System Stability

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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...

  • Page 101: Storage

    The Storage application uses the NVIDIA MediaShield RAID Manager technology to configure and control NVIDIA storage hardware integrated into the NVIDIA MCP. NVIDIA RAID technology can protect data from hardware failure and provide increased file system performance. To launch MediaShield, select "...

  • Page 102: Health

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 103: 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: 1. Click on under Management to launch the NVIDIA Delete Delete Array Array Wizard. 2. Click to continue with...
  • Page 104 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 3. Select an array you want to delete and press Next screen displays to verify that Completing the NVIDIA Delete Array Wizard you still want to delete the array selected. CAUTION: Be sure you are deleting the correct array.

  • Page 105: Rebuild Array

    Use the following procedure to rebuild an array: 1. Identify the affect disk in the array and replace it. 2. Click on Rebuild Array under Management to launch the NVIDIA Rebuild Array Wizard. 3. Click to continue with the Next wizard and display the RAID Array Selection menu.
  • Page 106 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 5. Select the disk in the array that was replaced and needs to be rebuilt. 6. Click Next Completing the NVIDIA Rebuild Array Wizard screen displays to verify that you still want to rebuild the array selected.

  • Page 107: Migrating Array

    An example would be to change a Mirroring array to a Strip Mirroring array. Use the following procedure to rebuild an array: 1. Click on Migrate Array under Management to launch the NVIDIA Migrate Array Wizard. 2. Click Next to continue with the wizard and display the RAID Array Selection window.
  • Page 108 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 3. Select the array to migrate and click to display the RAID Mode Next Selection window. 4. Select the RAID mode you want to migrate to and click Next screen displays to verify that Completing the NVIDIA Migrate Array Wizard you still want to migrate the array selected.

  • Page 109: Synchronize Array

    Synchronize Array This option is used to synchronize a selected array. Use the following procedure to rebuild an array: 1. Click on under Management to launch the NVIDIA Synchronize Array Synchronize Array Wizard. 2. Click to continue with the wizard and display the RAID Array Next Selection window.
  • Page 110 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 3. Select the array to synchronize and click Next screen displays to verify Completing the NVIDIA Synchronize Array Wizard that you still want to synchronize the array selected. 4. Click to begin synchronizing the array.

  • Page 111: 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 112: Performance

    Networking Control Panel Categories First Packet NVIDIA FirstPacket offers a new way to manage the traffic on your personal computer, allowing you to more effectively manage and improve the performance of networked games and other applications that are sensitive to network delay (latency), such as Voice-over-IP (VoIP).
  • Page 113 Using NVIDIA Software Use the following procedure to enable or disable the ability to have network traffic to prioritized for optimal performance: 1. Select Configure FirstPacket Settings under Performance on the Networking Control Panel Categories screen to display the Configure FirstPacket Settings screen.

  • Page 114: Tcp/Ip Acceleration

    Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 4. Define the applications to accelerate by clicking Program Prioritized by FirstPacket. 5. 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 115 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 116: Teaming

    By utilizing the multiple interfaces on an NVIDIA nForce system and load balancing traffic among them, network users can gain fault tolerance and achieve greater throughput.
  • Page 117 " 1. Select Start All Programs NVIDIA Corporation NVIDIA Control Panel to display the NVIDIA Control Panel. 2. Click on the networking icon to display the Networking Control Panel Categories. 3. Select to display the teaming configuration Adjust Teaming configuration window.
  • Page 118 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard This page is blank.

  • Page 119: Installing Graphics Cards In An Sli Configuration

    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. Your new motherboard can support up to three PCI Express graphics cards, two linked using SLI and one for Graphics expansion.
  • Page 120 PCI Express auxiliary connector (6-pin connector), please contact your graphics board partner for an HDD-to-PCI Express power adaptor. The NVIDIA SLI power supply recommendations are based on the following test configurations: High-End NVIDIA SLI Configuration: "...

  • Page 121: Install Your Nvidia Sli-Ready Parts

    Install Your NVIDIA SLI-Ready Parts 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 NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI motherboard has three PCI Express slots.
  • Page 122 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 123 From Power Supply 3. Install the NVIDIA SLI connector across the two outer graphics cards as shown below. Each SLI-Ready graphics card has an SLI finger on the upper side of the card.

  • Page 124: Install Nvidia Sli Software

    Your motherboard shipped with a set of drivers that you must install. Once these drivers are installed, reboot your system. As part of the NVIDIA Unified Driver Architecture, NVIDIA drivers include a full set of controls for SLI systems. Go to http://www.slizone.com/content/slizone/drivers.html...

  • Page 125: Enable Nvidia Sli

    Installing Graphics Cards in an SLI Configuration Enable NVIDIA SLI At this point, you need to enable NVIDIA SLI. You can do this either by clicking on the balloon or by going to the NVIDIA SLI capable system Control Panel.
  • Page 126 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA 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 127: Appendix A. On-Board Led Codes

    Appendix A. 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...
  • Page 128 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 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...
  • Page 129 On-board LED Codes Code(hex) Name Description Reserved Test DMA Page Test DMA Page Registers Registers Reserved Reserved Test Timer Test 8254 Timer 0 Counter 2. Reserved Test 8259-1 Mask Verify 8259 Channel 1 masked interrupts by alternately turning off and on the interrupt lines. Reserved Test 8259-2 Mask Verify 8259 Channel 2 masked interrupts by...
  • Page 130 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 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...
  • Page 131 On-board LED Codes Code(hex) Name Description Detect HDD IDE device detection Reserved Detect serial ports Initialize serial ports Reserved Reserved Detect parallel ports Initialize parallel ports Reserved HDD Write Protect HDD check for write protection Reserved Reserved POST error check Check POST error and display them and ask for user intervention Reserved...
  • Page 132 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard 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...
  • Page 133 On-board LED Codes Code(hex) Name Description Controller Init Memory ProdD – Discrete assembly register init algorithms Controller Init Memory ProdE – ProdC + Expandable criteria Controller Init Memory Send EMRS/MRS configuration cycles Controller Init Memory Overvoltage handling Controller Init Memory ProdF –...
  • Page 134 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard This page is blank.

  • Page 135: Index

    Index 1394 Cable ........10 BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Menu34 1394, on-board......7 BIOS menus 16-lane PCI Express links....3 Advanced BIOS Features menu ...41 2-Port SATA Power Cable ....9 Advanced Chipset Features ..46 3D Settings ....... 121 CMOS Setup Utility menu ....34 ACPI function.........66 CPU Configuration ......54 ACPI Suspend Type......66...
  • Page 136 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard Clock Drive Strength ......85 CPU, installing .......14 CMOS RAM jumper......30 date and time, setting in BIOS ..37 Comm2 Bracket Cable ....10 DDR2 memory .......15 Command Per Clock..... 53, 85 drivers, shipped in kit .....74 dual channel DDR2 ......15...
  • Page 137 Health option.........97 set power management functions in BIOS........65 High Precision Even Timer ....59 set system voltages in BIOS..55 High-End NVIDIA SLI Configuration ..........115 set TCP/IP Acceleration configuration ......110 hot key power on......68 synchronize an array ....104 How to HPET..........59...
  • Page 138 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard memory DIMMs......15 microprocessor ......xii motherboard ......16 Microprocessor ......7 installing software ......74 Mid-Range NVIDIA SLI Configuration ..........115 Integrated Peripherals menu ..61 motherboard Intel microprocessor ...... xii install procedure ......16 internal headers......23 motherboard specifications..7...
  • Page 139 Index paring the motherboard ....14 RAID Array PCI clocks........58 delete ........98 PCI Express connectors for SLI ..116 migrate........102 PCI Express x1 slot ......30 rebuild........100 PCI Express x16 slots .....30 synchronize......104 PCI Express x16 Support .....8 RAID Config menu ......63 PCI slots........29 RAS to CAS access ......83 PCIe Spread Spectrum....49...
  • Page 140 Installing and Configuring the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI Motherboard SLI Connector........10 Total Memory......40 SLI connector, install....119 tRAS........53, 83 SLI, building SLI system ....114 tRC..........53 SLI, Enabling ....... 121 tRDC..........53 SLI-Ready graphic cards....118 tRDRD...........84 Soft-Off by PBNT ......66 tREF..........53...
  • Page 141 No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent or patent rights of NVIDIA Corporation. Specifications mentioned in this publication are subject to change without notice. This publication supersedes and replaces all information previously supplied.

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