1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Aigo X99M D4 Motherboard. This Micro-ATX motherboard is designed to support Intel LGA 2011-3 socket processors, including Intel Core i7 and Xeon E5 V3/V4 series, and features four DDR4 memory slots with support for up to 128GB RAM. It is equipped with an Intel X99 chipset, dual NVMe M.2 slots, and multiple expansion interfaces for a versatile computing experience.
2. Safety Information
- Always disconnect the power supply before installing or removing any components.
- Wear an anti-static wrist strap to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to components.
- Handle the motherboard by its edges to avoid touching sensitive components.
- Ensure proper ventilation within your computer case to prevent overheating.
- Do not expose the motherboard to moisture or extreme temperatures.
- The appearance and functionality of the motherboard should be checked immediately upon receipt. Do not install the motherboard into a computer case if any damage is observed, as installation may be considered artificial damage.
3. Specifications
The Aigo X99M D4 Motherboard offers the following technical specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Aigo |
| Model | X99M D4 |
| Form Factor | Micro-ATX (24.5CM x 19.0CM) |
| Chipset | Intel X99 |
| CPU Socket | LGA 2011-3 |
| CPU Compatibility | Intel Core i7, Intel Xeon E5 V3/V4 Series |
| Memory Slots | 4 x DDR4 (Four Channels) |
| Max Memory Capacity | 128 GB (4 x 32GB DDR4) |
| Memory Type Support | 2133/2400/2666/3000/3200/3600MHz (Supports REG ECC Memory) |
| Storage Interface Type | 2 x M.2 (NVMe), 6 x SATA 3.0 |
| RAID Supported | No |
| PCI-E Standards | PCI-E 3.0 |
| Expansion Slots | 1 x PCIe x16, 1 x PCIe x4, 1 x PCIe x1 |
| Onboard LAN | Realtek 1000Mbit RTL8111 (1x RJ45) |
| Audio | 6-Channel HD Audio Codec (3 x Audio Jacks) |
| Back I/O Ports | 1x RJ45, 3 x Audio Jacks, 4x USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1, 4 x USB 2.0, PS/2 |
| Internal Connectors | 1x 24-pin ATX PWR, 1x 8-pin ATX 12V PWR, 2x USB 2.0 headers, 2x USB 3.0 headers, 1x Front Audio Pin, 1x Front Panel Pin, 3x Fan Pins, 6x SATA3.0, 1x COM Pin |
| BIOS | AMI EFI BIOS |
| Usage Scenario | Gaming, Audio & Video, Office, 3D Modeling, Graphic Design |
4. Setup Guide
Follow these steps to properly install your Aigo X99M D4 Motherboard and its components.
4.1 Motherboard Layout and Connectors
Familiarize yourself with the motherboard's layout and various connectors using the diagram below.
4.2 CPU Installation
- Carefully open the LGA 2011-3 CPU socket lever.
- Align the CPU (Intel Core i7 or Xeon E5 V3/V4 series) with the socket, ensuring the triangular mark on the CPU matches the mark on the socket.
- Gently place the CPU into the socket without forcing it.
- Close the socket lever to secure the CPU.
- Install the CPU cooler according to its manufacturer's instructions.
4.3 Memory (RAM) Installation
The motherboard supports four DDR4 memory modules for quad-channel operation, with a maximum capacity of 128GB.
- Open the clips at both ends of the DDR4 memory slots.
- Align the memory module with the slot, ensuring the notch on the module matches the key in the slot.
- Press down firmly on both ends of the memory module until the clips snap into place.
- For optimal performance, install memory modules in pairs or quads to utilize quad-channel architecture.
Note: Server RAM (REG ECC) and Desktop RAM have compatibility differences. Ensure you use compatible RAM for your system configuration.
4.4 Storage Device Installation (M.2 NVMe & SATA)
The motherboard features two M.2 NVMe slots and six SATA 3.0 ports.
- **M.2 NVMe SSD:** Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle, then gently push it down and secure it with the provided screw.
- **SATA Drives:** Connect SATA data cables from your SSDs/HDDs to the SATA 3.0 ports on the motherboard. Connect power cables from your power supply to the drives.
4.5 Expansion Card Installation (PCIe)
The motherboard includes one PCIe x16 slot, one PCIe x4 slot, and one PCIe x1 slot.
- Align your graphics card or other PCIe expansion card with the appropriate slot.
- Press down firmly until the card is fully seated in the slot and the retention clip (if present) engages.
- Secure the card to the computer case with a screw.
4.6 Power Connections
- Connect the 24-pin ATX power connector from your power supply to the main power socket on the motherboard.
- Connect the 8-pin ATX 12V power connector (CPU power) from your power supply to the corresponding socket near the CPU.
- Ensure your power supply is at least 500W to adequately support this motherboard and its components.
4.7 Front Panel and Other Connectors
- Connect the front panel headers (Power LED, HDD LED, Power SW, Reset SW) from your computer case to the corresponding pins on the motherboard (refer to Figure 4.1 for locations).
- Connect USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 front panel cables to the respective headers.
- Connect the front audio cable to the F_AUDIO header.
- Connect any case fans to the available fan headers.
- Install the CMOS battery if it was removed for shipping.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 First Boot and BIOS Setup
- After assembling all components, connect your monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
- Power on your system. During startup, press the designated key (usually DEL or F2) to enter the AMI EFI BIOS setup utility.
- In the BIOS, you can configure boot order, system time, CPU settings, memory settings (including enabling XMP for overclocking if supported by your RAM), and other system parameters.
- Save changes and exit the BIOS to continue booting into your operating system installation media.
5.2 Driver Installation
After installing your operating system, install the necessary drivers for the chipset, LAN (Realtek RTL8111), audio, and any other integrated components. These drivers are typically provided on a CD with the motherboard or can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website.
5.3 Multi-Tasking and Gaming
The Aigo X99M D4 motherboard, with its authentic X99 chipset and four-channel memory support, is designed for stable multi-tasking and high-efficiency performance. It is suitable for various applications including gaming, audio/video editing, office work, 3D modeling, and graphic design.
6. Maintenance
- **Cleaning:** Regularly clean dust from inside your computer case and motherboard components using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
- **BIOS Updates:** Check the manufacturer's website periodically for BIOS updates. Update the BIOS only if necessary and follow the instructions carefully to avoid system instability.
- **Component Checks:** Periodically check all cable connections (power, data, front panel) to ensure they are secure.
- **Thermal Management:** Ensure CPU cooler and case fans are functioning correctly to maintain optimal temperatures. The motherboard features a metallic heat dissipation armor for stable power delivery.
7. Troubleshooting
- **No Power/System Fails to Boot:**
- Ensure all power cables (24-pin ATX, 8-pin ATX 12V) are securely connected.
- Verify that your power supply unit (PSU) is sufficient. This motherboard requires at least a 500W brand power supply.
- Check front panel power switch connections.
- **No Display Output:**
- Ensure your graphics card is properly seated in the PCIe x16 slot and has adequate power.
- Check monitor cable connections.
- Verify CPU and RAM are correctly installed.
- **Memory (RAM) Issues:**
- Ensure RAM modules are fully seated in their slots.
- Confirm that the installed RAM type (DDR4) is compatible. Note that server RAM (REG ECC) may have compatibility issues with desktop RAM.
- Try booting with one RAM stick at a time to isolate a faulty module.
- **System Instability/Crashes:**
- Check CPU and GPU temperatures. Ensure cooling solutions are working.
- Verify all drivers are correctly installed and up to date.
- Ensure your power supply meets the minimum wattage requirement.
- **Cosmetic Variations:**
- The color of the bottom plate of the slot may vary between manufacturing batches. This is a cosmetic difference and does not affect the product's functionality or performance.
8. User Tips
- **Power Supply:** Always use a powerful and reliable power supply, at least 500W, to ensure system stability, especially when using high-performance CPUs and graphics cards.
- **RAM Compatibility:** Be mindful of RAM compatibility. While the motherboard supports DDR4, ensure that if you are using ECC memory, it is compatible with your CPU and other components. Mixing server (REG ECC) and desktop RAM is generally not recommended due to potential compatibility issues.
- **Drivers:** After OS installation, download and install the latest drivers for your chipset, LAN, and audio from the official Aigo support website or the respective component manufacturers (e.g., Realtek for LAN).
- **RAM Overclocking:** The motherboard supports four-channel DDR4 and indicates support for overclocking. If you plan to overclock your RAM, ensure your memory modules are rated for higher speeds and configure settings carefully in the BIOS. CPU overclocking for unlocked CPUs like i7 6800k is not explicitly stated as supported for this specific motherboard model, which is primarily designed for Xeon E5 V3/V4 series.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Aigo website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
