MACHINIST X99-K9 D3 Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, configuration, and maintenance of your MACHINIST X99-K9 D3 motherboard. Designed for high-performance computing, this motherboard supports Intel LGA 2011-3 Xeon E5 V3 series CPUs and DDR3 memory, offering robust features for gaming, professional applications, and general desktop use.

Important Note: This motherboard only supports Intel processors with the LGA2011-3 socket that use DDR3 memory, including models 2629 V3, 2649 V3, 2669 V3, 2666 V3, 2673 V3, 2676 V3, 2678 V3, and 2696 V3.

Figure 1: MACHINIST X99-K9 D3 Motherboard with retail packaging.

2. Specifications

The following table outlines the key technical specifications of the MACHINIST X99-K9 D3 motherboard:

Figure 2: Detailed product parameters.

Motherboard dimensions: 235mm x 200mm.

Figure 3: Motherboard dimensions.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• MACHINIST X99-K9 D3 Motherboard
• SATA Cable
• Fan Brackets (screws included)
• Interface Baffle (I/O Shield)

Figure 4: Included accessories.

4. Setup and Installation

Before beginning installation, ensure your workspace is static-free and you have appropriate tools. Refer to the motherboard layout for component locations.

Figure 5: Motherboard component layout.

4.1. CPU Installation

This motherboard supports Intel LGA 2011-3 CPUs. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Press the lever with your hand and lift it up.
2. Lift the CPU slot buckle cover and remove the black protective cover.
3. Align the CPU base with the card slot on top of the CPU. After confirming it is correct, lower the CPU carefully and place it in place.
4. 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.

Figure 6: CPU installation diagram.

4.2. Memory (RAM) Installation

The motherboard features four DDR3 memory slots. Ensure you use compatible DDR3 modules (ECC or RECC server memory is also supported). For optimal performance, install memory in a quad-channel configuration if possible, following the motherboard's manual for specific slot population order.

1. Open the clips at both ends of the memory slot.
2. Align the notch on the memory module with the key in the slot.
3. 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.

4.3.1. SATA Drives

Connect your SATA 2.5-inch SSDs or 3.5-inch HDDs to the available SATA 3.0 ports using SATA data cables. Connect the SATA power cable from your power supply to the drive.

4.3.2. NVMe M.2 SSDs

The motherboard is equipped with three M.2 slots supporting NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 SSDs (2280 form factor). To install:

1. Locate an M.2 slot and remove the retaining screw/standoff.
2. Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at a 30-degree angle.
3. Gently push down the SSD and secure it with the retaining screw.

Figure 7: Dual M.2 NVMe slots, supporting 80mm and 60mm lengths.

4.4. Power Connections

Connect the 24-pin ATX main power connector and the 8-pin CPU power connector from your power supply to the corresponding ports on the motherboard. Ensure your power supply is at least 500W for stable operation.

4.5. Front Panel Connectors

Connect the power button, reset button, HDD LED, and power LED cables from your PC case to the front panel header on the motherboard. Refer to the motherboard layout (Figure 5) for exact pin locations. Ensure correct polarity for LEDs. The front panel header diagram shows connections for +POWER LED-, +POWER SW-, +HDD LED-, and +RESET SW-.

4.6. Other Connections

• Graphics Card: Insert your PCIe x16 graphics card into the primary PCIe 3.0 x16 slot.
• Fans: Connect case fans and the CPU cooler fan to the appropriate fan headers (e.g., 4-pin CPU FAN, 3-pin FAN, 2-pin 5V FAN).
• USB: Connect front panel USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 headers to the motherboard.
• Audio: Connect front panel audio cables to the AAFP connector.
• Network: The motherboard includes a Realtek 8111H Gigabit LAN port and supports WiFi M.2 modules.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. First Boot

After all components are installed and connected, power on your system. The system should initiate the boot process. You may need to install an operating system if it's a new build.

5.2. BIOS Access

To enter the BIOS setup utility, press the DEL key repeatedly immediately after powering on the system.

5.3. Quick Boot Menu

To access the quick boot menu (for selecting boot devices), press the F11 key repeatedly immediately after powering on the system.

6. Maintenance

6.1. CMOS Battery Replacement

The motherboard requires a CR2032 3V battery for CMOS settings. If your system experiences issues with time/date or BIOS settings resetting, the CMOS battery may need replacement. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before replacing the battery.

Note: The motherboard does not come with a CMOS battery installed from the factory due to shipping regulations. You must install a CR2032 battery to start the computer.

6.2. Cleaning

Regularly clean dust from your computer case and motherboard components using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.

6.3. BIOS/Driver Updates

Periodically check the manufacturer's website for updated BIOS versions and drivers to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Contact customer service to obtain BIOS files and drivers.

7. Troubleshooting

• System Fails to Start:
  • Ensure a CR2032 CMOS battery is installed.
  • Verify all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU) are securely seated.
  • Check that the power supply is sufficient (at least 500W recommended).
  • Reseat CPU, RAM, and graphics card.
  • Ensure front panel power switch is correctly connected.
• No Display:
  • Confirm graphics card is properly seated and powered.
  • Check monitor cable connection.
  • Try booting with only one RAM stick.
• System Instability/Crashes:
  • Check CPU and GPU temperatures.
  • Verify RAM compatibility and stability.
  • Ensure adequate power supply.
  • Update BIOS and drivers.
• M.2 SSD Not Detected:
  • Ensure the M.2 SSD is correctly seated in the slot.
  • Check BIOS settings to ensure M.2 slots are enabled and configured correctly (NVMe mode).

8. User Tips

• Power Supply: Always use a robust power supply, at least 500W, to ensure stable operation, especially with powerful CPUs and multiple components.
• CPU Compatibility: This motherboard is specifically designed for Intel LGA 2011-3 Xeon E5 V3 series CPUs. Ensure your CPU is compatible before installation.
• Memory Configuration: For best performance, populate memory slots to enable quad-channel mode. Refer to the motherboard's specific guidelines for memory population.
• BIOS/UEFI: Familiarize yourself with the BIOS settings. Press DEL during boot to enter BIOS, or F11 for the quick boot menu.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or to obtain BIOS files and drivers, please contact MACHINIST customer service or visit their official website. All motherboards are fully tested before shipment to ensure quality.

Note: The color of the bottom groove plate may vary from batch to batch, but this does not affect the product's functionality. The product is continuously optimized and updated.