1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, setup, and operation of your SOYO X99 Dual CPU Gaming Motherboard. Designed for high-performance computing, this E-ATX motherboard supports dual Intel Xeon E5-2600 V3/V4 series processors, DDR4 memory, and features multiple M.2 NVMe slots for high-speed storage. Please read this manual carefully before proceeding with installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
2. Setup and Installation
2.1. Memory Installation
When installing memory modules, ensure the CPU you are using has anti-overheating chips.
- Locate the single gap in the center of the memory module. This gap ensures correct orientation for installation into the slot.
- Insert the memory module vertically into the DIMM slot. Push it down firmly until the gold contacts are fully inserted. The plastic bayonets on both sides of the slot should automatically close. If installed correctly, no gold contacts should be visible.
- Manually verify that the memory module is securely locked by the slot clips.
2.2. CPU and Fan Installation
Before installing the CPU, ensure it is in good condition and the mainboard pins are correct.
Diagram illustrating the various components and power connections on the SOYO X99 Dual Motherboard, including CPU sockets, RAM slots, PCIe slots, SATA ports, USB headers, and fan headers.
- Open the nail hook on the CPU socket.
- Pull the retention rod to the fully open position.
- Remove the plastic cover from the CPU socket. Carefully insert the CPU into the slot, aligning the notch on the CPU with the socket.
- Gently press the retention rod against the bearing plate and close it.
- Hook the pressure rod with the hook on the side of the base to secure the CPU.
- Before installing the CPU fan, ensure the four mounting nails are properly installed. Align the fan's mounting holes with those on the mainboard. Press the fan down firmly until the four nail hooks are jammed into the four holes on the motherboard.
- Press down the four nail hooks to secure the fan. Flip the motherboard to verify correct insertion.
- Connect the CPU fan's power cable to the CPU fan power port on the mainboard.
Notice:
- If the CPU is not installed, always place a plastic protective cover over the CPU slot to prevent damage.
- The contents of this manual are for reference only and do not constitute any form of guarantee.
2.3. Front Panel Connections
The mainboard provides interfaces for connecting the chassis front panel and indicators.
F_PANEL/SPEAKER: Front Panel Interface
Connect the chassis power switch, reset switch, power LED, and HDD LED to the corresponding pins on the motherboard's front panel header. Refer to the diagram below for pin assignments.
Detailed diagram of the motherboard's front panel header, showing pin assignments for power switch, reset switch, power LED, and HDD LED.
F USB1/F USB2 Insert Pin: USB Header
This interface is compatible with I/O front panel connection specifications and allows connection of high-speed USB peripheral interfaces, such as USB HDDs, digital cameras, MP3 players, printers, and debugging demodulators.
Audio: Front Panel Audio Interface
This interface allows connection of front panel audio.
CPUFAN, SYSFAN1: Fan Power Interface
The fan power ports support +12V system cooling fans. If your motherboard has an integrated system hardware monitoring chip, you must use a specially designed fan that supports fan speed detection to use the CPU fan control feature. Connect all system fans. Some system fans may not connect directly to the motherboard; in such cases, connect them directly to the power supply. The system fan can be plugged into any available system fan port.
Diagram showing pinouts for CPUFAN and SYSFAN1 headers.
2.4. BIOS Settings
After powering up the computer, the system will begin the POST (power-on self-test) process. To enter the BIOS setup program, press the <DEL> key when prompted. To enter the USB flash drive for quick boot, press <F7>.
If the prompt disappears quickly, you can restart the system by pressing the RESET key on the chassis, or by pressing <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete> simultaneously.
Main Page
Use this menu to configure basic system settings such as time and date.
Screenshot of the Aptio Setup Utility Main page, showing BIOS information, memory details, system language, date, and time settings.
Boot Menu
Use this menu to set USB drive boot options.
Screenshot of the Aptio Setup Utility Boot menu, displaying boot configuration options and boot device priorities.
2.5. Important Notice: CR2032 Battery
Due to logistics reasons, the CR2032 3V battery for this motherboard has been removed. Please purchase and install a CR2032 3V battery to ensure proper functionality and BIOS settings retention.
3. Operating Your Motherboard
The SOYO X99 Dual Motherboard is engineered for both demanding work and immersive gaming experiences. Its high-specification power delivery and support for DDR4 high-end memory ensure powerful performance.
Image emphasizing the powerful performance and stable core electricity supply of the motherboard, designed for efficient heat dissipation.
With its dual CPU support, large documents run smoothly, and game playing is more silky. The motherboard also features high-speed M.2 NVMe SSD protocol interfaces, allowing for rapid data access and system responsiveness.
Image showcasing the high-speed M.2 NVMe SSD slots on the motherboard, indicating support for NVMe SSD protocol interfaces.
4. Specifications
Below are the detailed technical specifications for the SOYO X99 Dual CPU Gaming Motherboard.
Table summarizing key motherboard parameters including CPU Socket, Chipset, Memory, Storage, and Expansion.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | SOYO |
| Model | X99 Motherboard Dual |
| Socket Type | LGA 2011-3 |
| Chipset | Intel C612 |
| Processor Compatibility | Intel Xeon E Series (E5-2600 V3/V4) |
| Memory Slots | 8 x DDR4 |
| Support Memory Type | DDR4 |
| Maximum RAM Capacity | 256GB |
| Storage Interface Type | SATA 3, M.2 (NVMe), M.2 (SATA) |
| Number of SATA Ports | 8 |
| Number of M.2 Slots | 2 (Supports 2280, 22110) |
| PCI - E Standards | PCI-E 3.0 |
| Number of PCIe x16 Slots | 1 |
| Number of PCIe x4 Slots | 1 |
| Number of PCIe x1 Slots | 2 |
| Ports | PCI-Express X1 |
| Back I/O Ports | 1x RJ45, PS/2 Combo, 3 x Audio Jacks, 4x USB 3.2/3.1 Gen 2, 4 x USB 2.0 |
| Onboard Connectors & Header | 24-pin Main Power, CPU Fan, Chassis(SYS) Fan, 8-pin +12V Power |
| Support USB Type | USB 2.0, USB 3.0 |
| Max LAN Speed | 1000Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet) |
| Audio Channels | 5.1 |
| RAID Supported | Yes (SATA RAID 0) |
| Application | Desktop, Server |
| Usage Scenario | Gaming, Audio & Video, Household, Office, Video Production, Server |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 295mm x 280mm |
Diagram illustrating the physical dimensions of the SOYO X99 Dual Motherboard (295mm x 280mm).
5. Maintenance
- Keep Clean: Regularly clean dust from the motherboard and components using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure your PC case has adequate airflow to prevent overheating, which can damage components.
- Handle with Care: Always handle the motherboard by its edges to avoid touching sensitive components or pins. Use anti-static precautions (e.g., anti-static wrist strap) when working inside your computer.
- BIOS Updates: Check the manufacturer's website periodically for BIOS updates. Only update the BIOS if necessary and follow the instructions precisely.
6. Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
- System Fails to Boot:
- Check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU).
- Ensure CPU(s), RAM, and graphics card are properly seated.
- Verify that the CR2032 battery is installed.
- Clear CMOS (refer to motherboard manual for jumper location).
- No Display Output:
- Ensure the monitor is connected to the graphics card (if dedicated) or motherboard (if integrated graphics are used and supported by CPU).
- Reseat the graphics card.
- Test with a different graphics card or monitor if possible.
- Hard Drive (HDD) Not Recognized (especially large drives >8TB):
- Check SATA data and power connections to the HDD.
- Verify that the HDD is enabled in the BIOS/UEFI settings.
- Ensure your operating system and drivers support large capacity drives. Some older operating systems or BIOS versions may have limitations. Consider updating BIOS if available.
- Peripherals Not Working (USB, Audio, LAN):
- Ensure front panel headers are correctly connected.
- Check device manager in your operating system for driver issues.
- Try different ports.
7. User Tips
- RAM Configuration: The motherboard supports up to 256GB of DDR4 RAM across 8 slots. You can install 8GB modules (totaling 64GB) or larger modules up to 32GB per slot to reach the maximum capacity. Ensure all RAM modules are of the same type and speed for optimal performance.
- Large HDD Support: If you encounter issues with hard drives larger than 8TB, ensure your BIOS is updated to the latest version and check for specific drivers or settings related to large volume support in your operating system.
- BIOS Battery: Remember to install a CR2032 3V battery for the BIOS to retain settings. This battery is typically not included due to shipping regulations.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims. Additional resources, including updated drivers and utility software, may be available on the SOYO official website.
A PDF version of the user manual may also be available for download from the manufacturer's support page for more detailed diagrams and instructions.
