1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your MACHINIST X99 U9 Motherboard Set Kit. This kit is designed for high-performance computing, supporting Intel LGA 2011-3 pin series processors, DDR4 memory, and NVME M.2 storage solutions. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
2. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to correctly install your motherboard and components.
2.1 Motherboard Layout and Connections
Refer to the diagram below for an overview of the motherboard's ports and headers.
- PS/2*2: For legacy keyboard and mouse connections.
- USB 2.0*2 (Rear): Two USB 2.0 ports on the rear I/O.
- USB 3.0*4 (Rear): Four USB 3.0 ports on the rear I/O.
- USB 2.0*2 (Internal Header): Internal header for two additional USB 2.0 ports.
- GIGABIT LAN: Ethernet port for network connectivity.
- AUDIO: Audio input/output jacks.
- 4PIN CPU FAN: CPU fan header.
- PCIE X16 3.0: Primary PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for graphics cards.
- NVME M.2 (1, 2, 3): Three NVME M.2 slots for high-speed storage.
- WIFI M.2: M.2 slot for a wireless network card.
- PCIE-X4 3.0: PCIe 3.0 x4 slot.
- Diagnostic card: Onboard diagnostic display.
- 4PIN FAN: Additional 4-pin fan headers.
- 8PIN DC: 8-pin ATX 12V power connector.
- 24PIN DC: 24-pin ATX main power connector.
- DDR4*4: Four DDR4 memory slots.
- SATA 3.0*6: Six SATA 3.0 ports for storage drives.
- TPM 2.0: Trusted Platform Module header (for ASUS 14-pin TPM2.0).
- USB 3.0 (Internal Header): Internal header for two additional USB 3.0 ports.
- Front Panel Headers: POWER LED-, POWER SW, HDD LED-, RESET SW.
2.2 CPU Installation
- Open the CPU socket retention mechanism (LGA 2011-3).
- Carefully align the Intel LGA 2011-3 pin series processor with the socket, ensuring the notches match.
- Gently place the CPU into the socket without forcing it.
- Close the retention mechanism to secure the CPU.
- Install the CPU cooler according to its manufacturer's instructions.
2.3 Memory Installation
The motherboard supports four-channel DDR4 memory. For optimal performance, install memory modules in matched pairs or quads.
- Open the clips at both ends of the DDR4 memory slots.
- Align the memory module with the slot, ensuring the notch on the module matches the key in the slot.
- Press down firmly on both ends of the memory module until the clips snap into place.
2.4 NVME M.2 and PCIe Card Installation
The motherboard features three NVME M.2 interfaces and two PCIe 3.0 slots.
- For M.2 devices, insert the module into the M.2 slot at an angle and then gently push it down. Secure it with the provided screw.
- For PCIe cards (e.g., graphics card), align the card with the appropriate PCIe slot (PCIe X16 for graphics) and press firmly until it seats correctly. Secure the card with a case screw.
2.5 Connecting Peripherals and Power
Connect all necessary cables and peripherals to the motherboard.
- Connect the 24-pin ATX main power connector and the 8-pin ATX 12V power connector from your power supply to the motherboard.
- Connect SATA data cables from your storage drives to the SATA 3.0 ports.
- Connect front panel cables (Power LED, Power Switch, HDD LED, Reset Switch) to their respective headers on the motherboard.
- Connect USB devices, Ethernet cable, and audio devices to the rear I/O panel.
- Install the TPM2.0 module into the dedicated 14-pin TPM interface if desired.
3. Operating Instructions
Once all components are installed and connected, you can power on your system.
- Ensure all power cables are securely connected and the power supply switch is in the 'ON' position.
- Press the power button on your computer case.
- The onboard diagnostic card will display POST codes during startup, which can be helpful for troubleshooting.
- To enter the BIOS/UEFI setup, typically press the 'DEL' or 'F2' key repeatedly during the initial boot sequence. Consult your operating system's documentation for further setup.
4. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and stable operation of your motherboard.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean dust from inside your computer case, especially around the motherboard, CPU cooler, and fan vents. Use compressed air and a soft brush. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
- VRM Cooling: The motherboard features an embedded 2PIN 5V fan for VRM auxiliary cooling, which helps dissipate heat from the power delivery components. Ensure this fan is not obstructed.
- CMOS Battery: The motherboard uses a CR2032 coin cell battery for CMOS settings. This battery is typically removed before shipment due to logistics regulations. You will need to install one during initial setup.
5. Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:
- System Fails to Power On or Shuts Down Unexpectedly:
- Ensure your power supply is sufficient. This platform requires a powerful power supply, with at least a 500W brand power supply recommended. Check all power connections (24-pin, 8-pin CPU) are secure.
- Memory Incompatibility Issues:
- If you experience system instability or boot failures related to memory, ensure you are using compatible DDR4 modules. It is recommended to use international brands such as Samsung, Kingston, Sandy, Micron, and Hynix. Other brands may have compatibility issues.
- No Display Output:
- Verify that your graphics card is properly seated in the PCIe X16 slot and that the monitor cable is securely connected to the graphics card and monitor. Check if the diagnostic card displays any error codes.
- Minor Aesthetic Variations:
- The color of the motherboard's bottom plate or other minor components may vary between manufacturing batches. This is normal and does not affect the product's functionality or performance.
6. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the MACHINIST X99 U9 Motherboard Set Kit.
6.1 Motherboard Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | MACHINIST |
| Model | X99 U9 (White) |
| CPU Socket | Intel LGA 2011-3 |
| Chipset | X99 / C612 |
| Form Factor | M-ATX |
| Dimensions | 245mm x 197mm |
| PCIe Slots | 1x PCIe 3.0 X16, 1x PCIe 3.0 X1 |
| M.2 Slots | 3x NVME M.2 (PCIe 3.0 X4, up to 3600MB/s), 1x NGFF M.2 (for WiFi) |
| SATA Ports | 6x SATA 3.0 |
| USB Ports (Rear I/O) | 4x USB 2.0, 4x USB 3.0 |
| USB Headers (Internal) | 1x USB 2.0 header (supports 2 ports), 1x USB 3.0 header (supports 2 ports) |
| Ethernet | Gigabit LAN |
| Audio | Standard Audio Jacks |
| TPM Interface | ASUS 14-pin TPM2.0 compatible |
| Diagnostic Card | Yes |
| VRM Cooling | Embedded 2PIN 5V fan |
| Power Design | 6-phase direct output power supply |
6.2 CPU Specifications (Xeon E5 2690 V4)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Processor Series | Xeon E5 2690 V4 |
| Cores / Threads | 14 Cores / 28 Threads |
| Base Frequency | 2.2GHz |
| Max Turbo Frequency | 3.1GHz |
| Socket Type | LGA 2011-3 |
| L3 Cache | 25MB |
| Process Technology | 14nm |
6.3 Memory Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Technology | Four-channel DDR4 |
| Memory Slots | 4x DDR4 |
| Maximum Capacity | 128GB (32GB x 4) |
| Supported Types | DDR4 Desktop Memory, DDR4 Server Memory (ECC) |
| Supported Frequencies | 2133/2400/2666/3200 MHz |
7. User Tips
- Bundle Verification: Always double-check the contents of your bundle upon arrival. If you purchase a single motherboard, CPU and memory are not included.
- Power Supply: A stable and sufficient power supply is crucial for the X99 platform. Ensure your power supply is at least 500W from a reputable brand.
- Memory Compatibility: For best compatibility and stability, use DDR4 memory modules from well-known international brands such as Samsung, Kingston, Sandy, Micron, or Hynix.
- TPM Module: If you plan to use a TPM module, ensure it is an ASUS 14-pin TPM2.0 accessory, as other types may not be compatible with the X99 U9 motherboard.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty claims, technical support, or any product-related inquiries, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
