1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your MACHINIST X99 K9-D3 motherboard. Designed for high-performance computing, this motherboard supports Intel Xeon E5 V3/V4 series processors with an LGA 2011-3 socket and DDR3 memory. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are present in your package. If any item is missing or damaged, please contact your retailer.
- MACHINIST X99 K9-D3 Motherboard
- SATA Cable
- Interface Baffle (I/O Shield)
- Fan Brackets
- (Optional, depending on bundle) Intel Xeon E5 2666 V3 Processor
- (Optional, depending on bundle) 32GB (2x16GB) DDR3 1866MHz RAM
3. Specifications
The following table details the technical specifications of the MACHINIST X99 K9-D3 motherboard:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | X99 K9-D3 |
| Socket Type | LGA 2011-3 |
| Chipset | Intel C612 |
| Processor Compatibility | Intel Xeon E5 V3/V4 series (e.g., 2629 V3, 2649 V3, 2669 V3, 2666 V3, 2673 V3, 2676 V3, 2678 V3, 2696 V3) |
| Memory Slots | 4 x DDR3 (Four-channel) |
| Supported Memory Type | Desktop DDR3, Server DDR3 (ECC, RECC) |
| Maximum RAM Capacity | 128GB (4 x 32GB) |
| Memory Frequency | Up to 2133MHz (1066/1333/1866/2133MHz supported) |
| Storage Interface | 9 x SATA 3.0, 2 x NVMe M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x4, 2280 form factor) |
| RAID Support | RAID 0, RAID 1 (SATA RAID) |
| Expansion Slots | 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe x1, 2 x PCI |
| USB Ports | 5 x USB 2.0, 5 x USB 3.0 (front + back) |
| Back I/O Ports | 1x RJ45, WiFi, PS/2 |
| Onboard LAN | Realtek 8111G Gigabit LAN (1000Mbps), WiFi M.2 module |
| Audio | Realtek ALC897 chip, 5.1 Channel Audio |
| Power Interface | 24-pin Main Power Connector, 8-pin CPU Power Connector |
| Power Supply Design | 8-phase power supply |
| Form Factor | Micro-ATX (235mm x 200mm) |
| Special Features | Support for Overclocking, S3 Sleep Support |
| Quality Certification | CE, RoHS |
4. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps carefully to install your motherboard and components.
4.1 CPU Installation
- Press the lever with your hand and lift it up.
- Lift the CPU slot buckle cover and remove the black protective cover.
- Align the CPU base with the card slot on top of the CPU, and after confirming it is correct, lower the CPU carefully and place it in place.
- After installation, put down the CPU slot buckle cover and snap back the lever.
Warning: Do not touch the motherboard interface pins. Do not touch the CPU pins to contact the core.
4.2 Memory (RAM) Installation
The motherboard features four DDR3 memory slots, supporting four-channel memory configurations. Ensure you use compatible DDR3 desktop or server (ECC, RECC) memory modules.
- Open the clips on both ends of the memory slot.
- Align the notch on the memory module with the key in the slot.
- Press down firmly on both ends of the memory module until the clips snap into place.
4.3 Storage Device Installation
The motherboard supports both SATA and NVMe M.2 storage devices.
- **SATA Drives:** Connect your 2.5-inch SSDs or 3.5-inch HDDs to the SATA 3.0 ports using SATA cables. The motherboard has 9 SATA 3.0 ports.
- **NVMe M.2 SSDs:** The motherboard is equipped with two NVMe M.2 slots (PCIe 3.0 x4), supporting 2280 form factor SSDs. Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot and secure it with the provided screw.
4.4 Power Connections
Connect the power supply unit (PSU) cables to the motherboard.
- Connect the 24-pin ATX main power connector from your PSU to the corresponding slot on the motherboard.
- Connect the 8-pin CPU power connector (EPS12V) from your PSU to the 8-pin slot near the CPU socket.
Important: This platform requires a strong power supply. Ensure your PSU is at least 500W to support the system.
4.5 Peripheral Connections
Connect other essential components and peripherals.
- **Front Panel Connectors:** Connect the power switch, reset switch, power LED, and HDD LED cables from your PC case to the corresponding pins on the motherboard's front panel header.
- **USB Ports:** Connect front panel USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 headers to the motherboard.
- **Fan Headers:** Connect CPU fan(s) to the 4-pin CPU FAN header and case fans to the 3-pin FAN or 2-pin 5V FAN headers.
- **Audio:** Connect front panel audio cables to the AAFP connector.
- **Back I/O Ports:** Install the interface baffle (I/O shield) into your PC case. Connect external devices to the USB 2.0, USB 3.0, PS/2, RJ45 (Gigabit LAN), and audio ports.
4.6 CMOS Battery Installation
The motherboard does not come with a CMOS battery installed from the factory. You must install a CR2032 3V battery for the computer to start correctly.
- Locate the circular battery holder on the motherboard.
- Insert a CR2032 3V coin cell battery with the positive (+) side facing up.
5. Operation
5.1 Initial Boot-up
After completing all hardware installations, connect your monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Power on your system.
5.2 Accessing BIOS/UEFI
To enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility, press and hold the DEL key immediately after pressing the power button during startup.
5.3 Quick Startup Options
To access quick startup items (e.g., boot device selection menu), repeatedly tap the F11 key immediately after pressing the power button during startup.
5.4 S3 Sleep Support
The motherboard supports S3 sleep mode, allowing your system to enter a low-power state while retaining memory contents.
6. Maintenance
- **Keep Clean:** Regularly clean dust from inside your PC case using compressed air to prevent overheating and ensure optimal performance.
- **CMOS Battery:** The CR2032 battery typically lasts several years. If you experience issues with system time or BIOS settings resetting, replace the battery.
- **BIOS/Driver Updates:** Periodically check the manufacturer's website or contact customer service for the latest BIOS updates and drivers to improve system stability and compatibility.
7. Troubleshooting
- **System Fails to Start (No Power/Display):**
- Ensure a CR2032 3V battery is correctly installed in the motherboard's battery holder. The system will not start without it.
- Verify that your power supply unit (PSU) is at least 500W and all power connectors (24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU) are securely plugged into the motherboard.
- Check all internal cable connections, including front panel headers, CPU, RAM, and graphics card (if installed).
- **System Instability/Crashes:**
- Ensure all components are properly seated (CPU, RAM, expansion cards).
- Check for adequate cooling. Ensure CPU cooler and case fans are functioning correctly.
- Verify that your power supply is sufficient and stable.
- **Memory Issues:**
- Ensure DDR3 memory modules are correctly installed in the slots.
- Confirm that the memory modules are compatible with the motherboard (DDR3, correct frequency, ECC/RECC if using server memory).
- **Storage Device Not Detected:**
- Check SATA data and power cable connections for HDDs/SSDs.
- For NVMe M.2 SSDs, ensure they are properly seated and secured in the M.2 slot.
- Verify settings in BIOS/UEFI related to storage controllers.
Safety Precaution: When handling internal components, avoid touching motherboard interface pins or CPU pins to prevent damage.
8. User Tips
- **Aesthetic Variation:** The color of the bottom groove plate (PCB) may vary between manufacturing batches. This is normal and does not affect product functionality or performance.
- **BIOS/Driver Support:** If you require BIOS files or specific drivers for your motherboard, please contact customer service for assistance.
9. Warranty and Support
**Warranty:**
- If purchased as part of a bundle, the included CPU (if used) typically comes with a 1-year warranty. Please refer to your purchase documentation for specific warranty terms for all components.
- The motherboard itself is brand new and undergoes full testing before shipment to ensure quality.
**Technical Support:**
For any technical inquiries, troubleshooting assistance, or to obtain BIOS files and drivers, please contact the seller's customer service. Provide your product model and purchase details for efficient support.
