Q670 Plus Intel vPro 8-Bay NAS Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Topton Q670 Plus Intel vPro 8-Bay NAS Motherboard. This enterprise-grade commercial NAS motherboard supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Generation LGA1700 CPUs, features 3 NVMe slots, 2 SFF-8643 connectors for 8 SATA3.0 drives, 1 PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, 2 DDR5 UDIMM slots, and dual 2.5G LAN ports with Intel vPro remote management capabilities.

2. Setup

2.1 Pre-Installation Checklist

• Ensure you have a compatible 115X radiator. A good radiator is crucial for proper operation.
• Verify your power supply has both 24-pin and 8-pin ATX 12V connectors, as both must be connected simultaneously to power on the motherboard.
• Do not use Intel 'F' series CPUs, as they lack integrated graphics and will not provide display output. It is recommended to use Intel 1X500T series or above LGA1700 CPUs with integrated graphics for Intel vPro functionality.
• ASPM (Active State Power Management) is closed by default and is not supported. Do not attempt to enable it.
• Note that new motherboards are tested with a radiator, so traces of thermal grease on the copper plate are normal.

2.2 Component Installation

2.2.1 CPU Installation (LGA1700)

The Q670 chipset supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th generation desktop LGA1700 processors with a Thermal Design Power (TDP) ranging from 65W to 125W. For optimal power saving and long-term use, T-series CPUs are highly recommended. Carefully align your CPU with the LGA1700 socket, lower the retention arm, and secure the CPU.

2.2.2 Memory Installation (DDR5)

The motherboard features dual-channel U-DIMM DDR5 memory slots. It is recommended to use 5600MHz frequency memory, which is compatible with 4800MHz and 5200MHz modules. Each single channel supports up to 48GB, allowing for a maximum total capacity of 96GB in dual-channel configuration. Insert DDR5 modules into the slots until the clips lock them into place.

2.2.3 Storage Installation (NVMe, SATA)

The Q670 Plus motherboard offers extensive storage options:

• 3x M.2 NVMe Slots: All three M.2 NVMe slots support PCIe 4.0 x4 signals and 2280 size SSDs. One slot is located on the front of the motherboard, and two are on the back.
• 8x SATA 3.0 Signals: The motherboard supports 8x SATA 3.0 drives by utilizing two SFF-8643 connectors. You will need 2x SFF-8643 to 4x SATA cables to connect up to eight SATA drives.

2.2.4 Power Connection

Connect both the 24-pin ATX power connector and the 8-pin ATX 12V power connector from your power supply to the corresponding sockets on the motherboard. Both connections are required for the system to power on.

2.3 Connecting Peripherals and Internal Headers

Refer to the diagram below for the location of external I/O ports and internal headers.

• External I/O Ports: USB 3.2 (Type-C 20Gbps), CMOS reset button, DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, USB 2.0, Intel i226-V 2.5G LAN, Intel i226-LM 2.5G LAN (supports vPro), Audio (2-in-1), additional USB 3.2 ports.
• Internal Headers: System fan connector, USB 2.0 pin headers, COM pin header, PCI-E5.0 x16 slot, TPM pin header, TYPE-E (USB 3.0) socket, CPU_FAN connector, 2x SFF-8643 connectors, Power supply 8-pin, PCIe split jumper (8+8), Power supply 24-pin, FPANEL (Front Panel) header, Auto power on Jumper.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Initial Power On

After all components are securely installed and power connections are made, press the power button on your PC case. The system should initiate the boot process. If no display appears, refer to the Troubleshooting section.

3.2 Intel vPro Remote Management

The Intel vPro technology enables remote management capabilities, which can be highly beneficial for IT maintenance. To utilize vPro, ensure the following:

• Hardware Requirements: The vPro function requires a compatible motherboard chipset (Q670 or W680), a network card chip (Intel i226-LM), and an Intel i5 1X500 series CPU or above with integrated graphics.
• BIOS Configuration: The BIOS needs specific tuning to enable vPro. Access the BIOS/UEFI settings during startup to configure vPro options.
• Software: Install the Intel Endpoint Management Assistant (EMA) software on the controlling computer.

Once configured, vPro allows for remote control, system repair, and even BIOS access or OS reinstallation in case of system crashes, without physical presence. This is particularly useful for managing NAS systems remotely.

3.3 Operating System Compatibility

The Q670 Plus motherboard is compatible with Microsoft Windows 10/11 (64-bit versions) and Linux operating systems. It exclusively supports UEFI mode for booting.

4. Maintenance

4.1 General Care and Cleaning

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your motherboard, regular maintenance is recommended:

• Dust Removal: Periodically clean dust from the motherboard, CPU cooler, and case fans using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
• Component Inspection: Visually inspect all connections and components for any signs of wear, damage, or loose connections.

4.2 BIOS Updates

Check the manufacturer's website for the latest BIOS/UEFI updates. Updating the BIOS can improve system stability, compatibility, and performance. Follow the provided instructions carefully when performing a BIOS update.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 No Display Output

• CPU Compatibility: Ensure your CPU has integrated graphics. Intel 'F' series CPUs do not have integrated graphics and will not provide display output without a dedicated graphics card.
• Monitor Connection: Verify that your monitor is correctly connected to the HDMI or DisplayPort output on the motherboard.
• Power Connections: Double-check that both the 24-pin and 8-pin ATX 12V power connectors are securely plugged into the motherboard.

5.2 System Fails to Power On

• Power Supply: Confirm that the power supply unit (PSU) is functional and switched on.
• Power Cables: Ensure both the 24-pin and 8-pin ATX 12V power cables are firmly connected to the motherboard.
• Front Panel Connectors: Verify that the front panel power button connector is correctly attached to the FPANEL header.

5.3 System Instability or Crashes

• Cooling: Ensure a good 115X radiator is properly installed and functioning to prevent CPU overheating.
• Memory: Check that DDR5 memory modules are correctly seated in their slots. Test with one module at a time if issues persist.
• Power Delivery: Ensure your PSU provides sufficient and stable power for all components.

5.4 Intel vPro Remote Management Issues

• Hardware Verification: Confirm that your motherboard has a Q670/W680 chipset, an Intel i226-LM network card, and an Intel i5 1X500 series or above CPU with integrated graphics.
• BIOS Settings: Access the BIOS/UEFI and ensure vPro functionality is enabled and correctly configured.
• Software Installation: Verify that the Intel Endpoint Management Assistant (EMA) software is properly installed on the controlling client.

6. Specifications

The following table details the technical specifications of the Q670 Plus Intel vPro 8-Bay NAS Motherboard:

7. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. Detailed support resources may be available on the manufacturer's official website.

8. User Tips

• CPU Selection: When selecting a CPU, ensure it has integrated graphics to avoid display issues, especially if you are not using a dedicated graphics card. Intel 1X500T series or above LGA1700 CPUs are recommended for Intel vPro functionality.
• Power Connection: Always ensure both the 24-pin and 8-pin ATX 12V power connectors are securely attached to the motherboard before powering on the system to prevent boot failures.