MACHINIST X99 MD8-3 Motherboard User Manual

1. Product Overview

The MACHINIST X99 MD8-3 is an E-ATX motherboard designed for high-performance computing, supporting dual Intel Xeon E5 V3/V4 series processors and DDR3 memory. It features robust power delivery, extensive expansion options, and integrated cooling solutions for stable operation.

2. Specifications

3. Setup and Installation

3.1 Pre-Installation Checklist

• Ensure you have a compatible power supply (minimum 500W recommended).
• Verify your CPU(s) are compatible LGA 2011-3 Intel Xeon E5 V3/V4 series.
• Confirm your memory modules are DDR3 and from reputable brands (e.g., Samsung, Kingston, Sandisk, Micron).
• Prepare your PC case, CPU coolers, and other components.
• Unpack the motherboard carefully and place it on an anti-static surface.
• The CMOS battery is not included due to logistics restrictions and must be purchased separately.

3.2 CPU Installation

1. Open the CPU socket retention mechanism(s) on the LGA 2011-3 socket(s).
2. Carefully align the CPU(s) with the socket(s), ensuring the gold triangle on the CPU matches the indicator on the socket.
3. Gently place the CPU(s) into the socket(s). Do not force it.
4. Close the retention mechanism(s) to secure the CPU(s).
5. Install the LGA 2011 cooling bracket(s) and CPU cooler(s).

Important Note for Single CPU Operation:

• CPU must be installed in the left slot.
• PIN CPU power supply needs to be inserted on the left.
• Memory needs to be inserted into the left memory slot.
• Graphics card must be installed in slot 1 or slot 3.

3.3 Memory Installation

1. Locate the 8 DDR3 memory slots on the motherboard.
2. Open the clips at both ends of the memory slot.
3. Align the notch on the DDR3 memory module with the key in the memory slot.
4. Insert the memory module firmly into the slot until the clips snap into place.
5. For optimal performance, install memory modules in pairs or according to the motherboard's channel configuration for 8-channel operation.

3.4 Storage Device Installation

3.4.1 SATA Drives

• Connect your SATA 3.0 storage devices (HDDs/SSDs) to the 10 SATA 3.0 ports using the provided SATA cables.
• Ensure power cables from your PSU are connected to the drives.

3.4.2 M.2 SSDs

• The motherboard supports two M.2 SSDs (NVMe/SATA switch) in 2280 form factor.
• Locate the M.2 slots. Remove the retaining screw/standoff.
• Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle.
• Push down the SSD and secure it with the retaining screw.
• The motherboard supports dual NVMe M.2 working simultaneously for high-speed storage.

3.5 Expansion Card Installation (PCIe)

• The motherboard features 2x PCIe 3.0 x16, 2x PCIe 2.0 x1, and 1x PCIe 3.0 x8 slots.
• Align your expansion card (e.g., graphics card, network card) with the appropriate PCIe slot.
• Press down firmly until the card is seated correctly and secured by the slot's retention clip.

3.6 Power Connections

• Connect the 24-pin ATX main power connector from your power supply to the motherboard.
• Connect the 4-pin +12V CPU power connector(s) to the motherboard. Ensure all necessary CPU power connectors are used, especially for dual CPU configurations.

3.7 Front Panel and Peripheral Connections

• Connect your case's front panel connectors (Power LED, HDD LED, Power Switch, Reset Switch) to the corresponding pins on the motherboard. Refer to the detailed diagram (Figure 2) for pin locations.
• Connect USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 headers from your case to the motherboard's internal USB headers.
• Install the I/O shield into your PC case before mounting the motherboard.
• Connect external peripherals (USB devices, Ethernet cables, audio jacks) to the rear I/O panel.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Power On/Off and Restart

• After all components are installed and connected, ensure your power supply is switched on.
• Press the power button on your PC case or the onboard 'One key on/off' button to start the system.
• Use the onboard 'One-click restart' button for quick system restarts.

4.2 Diagnostic Card

The integrated diagnostic card displays POST (Power-On Self-Test) codes during startup. These codes can help identify hardware issues if the system fails to boot. Consult the motherboard's detailed POST code list (if available from the manufacturer's website) for specific error interpretations.

5. Maintenance

• **Dust Removal**: Regularly clean dust from inside your PC case, especially from fans and heatsinks, to prevent overheating.
• **Ventilation**: Ensure adequate airflow within your PC case. Proper ventilation is crucial for the longevity of components, especially with high-performance dual CPUs.
• **Power Supply Stability**: A stable and sufficient power supply is vital for the motherboard's operation. Ensure your PSU is functioning correctly and provides consistent power.
• **BIOS Updates**: Periodically check the manufacturer's website for BIOS updates. Updates can improve stability, compatibility, and performance.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 System Fails to Boot

• **Power Supply**: Verify that the power supply is connected correctly to the motherboard (24-pin and 4-pin +12V CPU connectors) and that it meets the minimum 500W requirement.
• **CPU**: Ensure CPU(s) are correctly seated in their sockets. If using a single CPU, confirm it's in the left slot with corresponding power and memory connections.
• **Memory**: Check if DDR3 memory modules are properly seated. Try booting with one memory stick at a time to identify a faulty module or slot. Ensure memory is from compatible brands.
• **Diagnostic Card**: Observe the POST codes displayed on the diagnostic card. These codes can pinpoint the component causing the boot failure.
• **Graphics Card**: If no display, ensure the graphics card is correctly installed in a PCIe slot (slot 1 or 3 for single CPU setup) and connected to power if required.

6.2 Instability or Crashes

• **Overheating**: Check CPU and chipset temperatures. Ensure CPU coolers are properly installed and fans are spinning. Verify the alloy radiators are clear of obstructions.
• **Power Delivery**: Unstable power can cause crashes. Ensure your PSU is reliable and provides sufficient wattage.
• **Component Compatibility**: Double-check that all installed components (CPU, RAM) are compatible with the motherboard.

7. User Tips

• **Power Supply**: Always use a powerful and reliable brand power supply, at least 500W, to ensure system stability, especially with dual Xeon processors and multiple expansion cards.
• **Memory Selection**: For DDR3 memory, stick to well-known international brands like Samsung, Kingston, Sandisk, or Micron to avoid compatibility issues. Other brands may not work.
• **Single CPU Configuration**: If running with only one CPU, ensure it is installed in the designated 'left' CPU slot, and memory and CPU power are also connected to the left side. The graphics card should be in slot 1 or 3.
• **Aesthetic Variation**: Be aware that the color of the motherboard's bottom plate may vary between manufacturing batches. This is a cosmetic difference and does not affect product functionality or performance.
• **CMOS Battery**: Remember to purchase and install a CR2032 CMOS battery separately, as it is not included with the motherboard due to shipping regulations.

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact the MACHINIST official store or your point of purchase. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Complimentary accessories included with the motherboard are: 1x I/O shield, 1x SATA cable, and 1x LGA 2011 cooling bracket. Please note that missing complimentary items cannot be a reason for refund.