MACHINIST H110 Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of your MACHINIST H110 Motherboard. Please read this manual carefully before installing or using the product to ensure proper operation and to prevent damage.

For additional support and the full user manual in PDF format, please refer to the official documentation available at: MACHINIST H110 User Manual (PDF).

2. Specifications

The MACHINIST H110 Motherboard is designed for desktop computing, offering a robust platform for various applications.

3. Setup and Installation

3.1. CPU & Fan Installation

Please install the CPU into the CPU socket (LGA 1151) as shown in the diagram below.

Important Considerations:

• Ensure the motherboard supports your specific CPU model.
• Always unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing the CPU to prevent hardware damage.
• Retain the CPU protective cap after installing the processor.
• Do not turn on the computer if the CPU cooler is not installed; overheating and damage to the CPU may occur.
• Confirm that the CPU heat sink has formed a tight seal with the CPU before booting your system.
• Apply an even layer of thermal paste (or thermal tape) between the CPU and the heatsink for enhanced heat dissipation.
• When the CPU is not installed, always protect the CPU socket pins by covering the socket with a plastic cap.
• Locate pin one of the CPU socket and the CPU. Position the CPU into its socket, then gently lower the locking lever until it latches into the fully locked position.
• Do not force the CPU into the socket if the locking lever is not lifted, as this can damage the CPU or socket.
• Connect the CPU 8-pin power connector to the 8-pin CPU power header on the motherboard. Ensure the 8-PIN power supply is plugged in to power the CPU.

3.2. Memory Installation

The motherboard provides two DDR4 DIMM slots, each supporting up to 16GB for a total maximum capacity of 32GB.

1. Wrench the latches on both sides of the memory slot outwards.
2. Insert the memory module into the slot by aligning it with the notch.
3. Flip the latches on both sides of the slot inwards to lock the memory.

Important Considerations:

• Ensure the motherboard supports the memory type (DDR4). It is recommended to use memory of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips.
• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord before installing memory.
• Memory modules have a foolproof design; they can only be installed in one direction. If it doesn't fit, switch the orientation.
• Dual-Channel mode requires two memory modules to be installed.

3.3. Expansion Card Installation

The motherboard provides a PCI Express 3.0 x16 expansion slot and a PCIe x1 slot.

• Place the expansion card in an available PCI Express slot.
• Press the expansion card firmly until it is fully inserted and secured.

Important Considerations:

• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power supply cable before adding or removing expansion cards.
• Incorrect installation can cause short circuits, potentially damaging the expansion card or the motherboard.

3.4. Storage Device Installation (M.2 SSD)

The motherboard features one M.2 slot for NVME/NGFF SSDs.

1. Insert your M.2 SSD into the M.2 slot at a 30-degree angle.
2. Gently push down the SSD and secure it in place with the provided screw.

3.5. Connecting Power (ATXPWR)

Ensure all components are properly installed before connecting power. The motherboard requires a 24-pin ATX power connector and an 8-pin CPU power connector.

Important Considerations:

• It is recommended to use a power supply of at least 500W to ensure stable power delivery, especially with high-power components. Insufficient power can lead to system instability or failure to boot.
• Always turn off the power supply before plugging in or unplugging power connectors.

3.6. Connecting Internal Headers

Connect the front panel, audio, and USB headers according to the diagrams below.

F_PANEL1 Connector (Front Panel)

This connector is for the power LED, power switch, HDD LED, and reset switch.

F_AUDIO1 Connector (Front Panel Audio)

This connector allows you to connect audio jacks on the front panel.

SPK2 Connector (Speaker)

This connector is for the internal speaker.

F_USB1 Connector (Front USB 2.0)

This header allows you to connect USB 2.0 ports on the front panel.

FP_USB3_1 Connector (Front USB 3.0)

This header conforms to USB 3.0 specification and allows you to connect USB 3.0 ports on the front panel.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. BIOS Setting

The BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) identifies, configures, tests, and connects computer hardware to the OS immediately after a computer is turned on. It performs the Power-On Self-Test (POST) during startup, saves system parameters, and loads the operating system. The BIOS Setup program allows users to modify basic system configuration settings or activate certain system features.

Important Considerations:

• The default BIOS settings are recommended for optimal performance and system stability. Inadequately altering settings may prevent the system from booting.
• BIOS flashing is potentially risky. Only flash the BIOS if you encounter problems with the current version. Inadequate flashing can lead to system malfunction.

4.2. Entering BIOS Setup

When the computer is turned on, BIOS enters the self-test process. After the self-test is complete, a message will display: "Press the DEL key to enter the BIOS Setup Menu." Alternatively, you can use the "Quick Boot Key" (F7) to access the boot menu.

• If the message disappears before you press the <DEL> key, turn off and then turn on your computer, or press <Reset> to restart.
• You can also press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously to restart your computer.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Clearing CMOS

To restore default BIOS settings or resolve certain issues, you may need to clear the CMOS. This can be done by shorting the Clear CMOS jumper (JCMOS1) on the motherboard.

Procedure for Clearing CMOS (2-pin jumper):

1. Ensure the computer is completely off and unplugged from the power outlet.
2. Locate the JCMOS1 jumper. In its initial state, pins 1 and 2 are covered.
3. To discharge, remove the jumper cap and place it over pins 2 and 3. Wait for approximately 3 minutes.
4. After discharge, restore the jumper cap to its initial position (covering pins 1 and 2).

Important Considerations:

• Always ensure the computer is off before clearing CMOS data.

6. Troubleshooting (Frequently Asked Questions)

6.1. Can't Boot (No fan rotation, no indicator light)

1. Clear the CMOS jumper.
2. Check if the CPU is compatible with the motherboard.
3. Verify that the motherboard's power and CPU power supply are properly plugged in, and the case power switch is functional.
4. Ensure the system panel power-on cable is correctly connected.
5. Check if the power supply is in good working condition.
6. Remove the graphics card, hard disk, USB, and other devices, then attempt to boot. (You can short the switch pins directly with a metal object to rule out chassis switch problems).
7. Replace the CPU with another compatible one and try again.

6.2. Start-up and then Shutdown (Fans spin briefly, then system turns off)

1. Clear the CMOS jumper.
2. Check for CPU compatibility issues.
3. Troubleshoot or replace the CPU if it is damaged.
4. Replace the memory modules.
5. Remove the graphics card, hard drive, and USB devices, then test again.

6.3. Computer Keeps Restarting (Endless reboot loop)

1. Clear the CMOS jumper.
2. Check if the CPU is compatible with the motherboard.
3. Test the CPU for defects (consider replacing with a new one).
4. Replace the RAM and check for compatibility or defects.
5. Remove the graphics card, hard disk, USB, and other devices, then test again.

6.4. No Display

There are two states for monitor no display:

State 1: Fan is rotating, Caps Lock indicator of keyboard does not respond.

1. Clear CMOS.
2. Check if the motherboard's power supply and the CPU power supply are plugged in.
3. Check if the memory stick is installed in the correct slot. (Some motherboard memory slots cannot be randomly inserted; contact support if unsure).
4. Check if the CPU and memory model are compatible with the motherboard.
5. Replace other CPUs.
6. Replace other memory.

State 2: Fan is rotating, Caps Lock indicator of keyboard lights up.

1. Check if the monitor is turned on.
2. Check if the monitor display cable (DP, HDMI, DVI, VGA) is plugged in.
3. If no graphics card is present, ensure your CPU supports integrated graphics. CPUs with suffix 'F' and Intel Xeon series CPUs typically do not support integrated graphics and require a discrete graphics card.
4. Verify the display data cable is plugged into the correct position. If using integrated graphics, connect to the motherboard's display interface. If using a discrete graphics card, connect to the graphics card's display interface.
5. Replace the data cable connected to the monitor.
6. Replace a new graphics card and test again.

6.5. Blue Screen or Crash

1. Check if the motherboard's heat dissipation is normal (e.g., CPU cooling fan working, cooler base tightly fitted, thermal paste applied).
2. Replace the CPU.
3. Replace the memory.
4. Replace the hard disk.
5. Reinstall the operating system.
6. Replace the power supply.

7. User Tips

• Memory Type: This motherboard supports DDR4 RAM. While some descriptions might incorrectly state DDR3, the physical slots and product images confirm DDR4.
• CPU Compatibility: The H110 chipset officially supports 6th and 7th generation Intel Core CPUs. However, with an updated BIOS, some users have successfully run 8th and 9th generation Intel Core CPUs (e.g., i3 8100). Always verify BIOS version and CPU microcode support if using newer generations.
• Power Supply: A stable power supply is crucial. Ensure your power supply is at least 500W for optimal performance and stability, especially when using a dedicated graphics card.
• BIOS Updates: If you encounter compatibility issues with newer CPUs or experience instability, check the manufacturer's official website or contact seller support for the latest BIOS updates. Be cautious when updating BIOS.
• CPU Pin Inspection: Before installing the CPU, carefully inspect the pins on the socket for any bending or damage. Damage to these pins can prevent the system from booting.

8. Warranty and Support

For any technical issues or questions not covered in this manual, please contact MACHINIST technical support. Refer to your purchase documentation for specific warranty terms and contact information.

It is recommended to keep your purchase receipt and product packaging for warranty claims.