MACHINIST X99 U9 Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your MACHINIST X99 U9 Motherboard. Designed for high-performance computing, this motherboard supports Intel LGA 2011-3 pin series processors, DDR4 quad-channel memory, and features multiple NVME M.2 slots for high-speed storage. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation.

2. Safety Information

• Always disconnect power from your computer before installing or removing any components.
• Wear an anti-static wrist strap or frequently touch a grounded metal object to discharge static electricity, which can damage electronic components.
• Handle components by their edges to avoid touching sensitive parts.
• Ensure proper ventilation within your computer case to prevent overheating.
• The motherboard battery is removed before shipment due to logistics regulations. Install a CR2032 battery if needed.

3. Package Contents

Depending on your purchase bundle, your package may include:

• MACHINIST X99 U9 LGA 2011-3 Motherboard
• Intel Xeon E5 2696 V3 Processor (if purchased in a bundle)
• DDR4 8GB 2133MHz Desktop Memory (2PCS, if purchased in a bundle)
• I/O Shield
• SATA Cable
• LGA 2011 Heat Sink (if purchased in a bundle)
• Diagnostic Card

Note: Complimentary accessories are subject to availability and cannot be a reason for refund if missing.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1 Motherboard Overview and Dimensions

The MACHINIST X99 U9 motherboard is a Micro-ATX form factor board with dimensions of 245mm x 197mm.

4.2 Component Identification and Connectors

Refer to the diagram below for the location of key components and connectors on the motherboard.

Key Connectors:

• CPU Socket: LGA 2011-3
• RAM Slots: 4 x DDR4 (Four channels)
• PCIe Slots: 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x4
• M.2 Slots: 3 x NVME M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x4), 1 x NGFF M.2 (for WiFi)
• SATA Ports: 6 x SATA 3.0
• USB Headers: Internal headers for USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports
• Power Connectors: 24-pin Main Power, 8-pin DC (CPU Power), 4-pin +12V Power
• Fan Connectors: CPU Fan, 4-pin Fan, 2-pin 5V VRM Fan
• Front Panel Header: AAFP Connector (Audio), Power/Reset/HDD LED headers
• TPM Interface: 14-pin TPM2.0 (compatible with ASUS 14-pin TPM2.0 accessories)
• Diagnostic Card: Onboard LED display for POST codes.

4.3 Processor Installation

1. Carefully open the LGA 2011-3 CPU socket retention mechanism.
2. Align the Intel Xeon processor with the socket, ensuring the triangular mark on the CPU matches the mark on the socket.
3. Gently place the CPU into the socket without forcing it.
4. Close the retention mechanism to secure the CPU.
5. Apply a thin, even layer of thermal paste to the CPU's heat spreader.
6. Install the LGA 2011 heat sink (provided in some bundles) onto the CPU.

4.4 Memory (RAM) Installation

The motherboard supports four-channel DDR4 memory up to a maximum of 128GB (32GB x 4). Use international brands like Samsung, Kingston, Sandy, Micron, and Hynix for best compatibility.

1. Open the clips at both ends of the DDR4 memory slots.
2. Align the memory module with the slot, ensuring the notch on the module matches the key in the slot.
3. Press down firmly on both ends of the memory module until the clips snap into place.
4. For quad-channel operation, install memory modules in the corresponding slots as indicated in the motherboard manual (typically alternating slots).

4.5 Storage Device Installation

The motherboard features 3 NVME M.2 slots and 6 SATA 3.0 ports.

• NVME M.2 SSD: Insert the M.2 SSD into an available NVME M.2 slot (supports 2280 form factor) and secure it with the provided screw. Each NVME M.2 slot supports speeds up to 3600MB/s.
• SATA Drives: Connect SATA data cables from your SATA SSDs or HDDs to the SATA 3.0 ports on the motherboard. Connect power cables from your power supply to the drives.

4.6 Expansion Card Installation

The motherboard includes 1 PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and 1 PCIe 3.0 x4 slot.

• Insert your graphics card into the PCIe 3.0 x16 slot.
• Other expansion cards (e.g., sound cards, network cards) can be installed in the PCIe 3.0 x4 slot.

4.7 Power Connections

Ensure your power supply is at least 500W and from a reputable brand to adequately power the platform.

• Connect the 24-pin ATX power cable from your power supply to the 24-pin Main Power Connector on the motherboard.
• Connect the 8-pin CPU power cable to the 8-pin DC connector near the CPU socket.
• Connect the 4-pin +12V power cable if your power supply has one and it's required by your CPU/system configuration.

4.8 Front Panel and Peripheral Connections

• Connect your case's front panel cables (Power LED, Power Switch, Reset Switch, HDD LED) to the corresponding headers on the motherboard.
• Connect USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 cables from your case's front panel to the internal USB headers.
• Connect the front panel audio cable to the AAFP connector.
• Install the I/O shield into your computer case.
• Connect external peripherals to the rear I/O ports:

  

  • 2 x PS/2 ports
  • 4 x USB 2.0 ports
  • 4 x USB 3.0 ports
  • 1 x Gigabit LAN port (RJ45)
  • Audio jacks (Line In, Line Out, Mic In)

4.9 TPM Module Installation

The motherboard features a 14-pin TPM interface compatible with ASUS 14-pin TPM2.0 accessories.

• Locate the TPM header on the motherboard.
• Align your compatible TPM2.0 module with the header and gently press it into place.

4.10 VRM Auxiliary Cooling Fan

The motherboard includes an embedded 2-pin 5V fan for VRM auxiliary cooling, designed to dissipate heat from the MOS tubes and enhance CPU performance.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 First Boot and BIOS Setup

1. After assembling all components, connect your monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
2. Power on your system.
3. During startup, repeatedly press the designated key (usually DEL or F2) to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility.
4. Configure boot order, system time, and other necessary settings. Save changes and exit BIOS.
5. Install your operating system.

5.2 Diagnostic Card Usage

The onboard diagnostic card displays POST (Power-On Self-Test) codes, which can help identify issues during startup. Refer to the motherboard's specific POST code list (usually available online or in a more detailed technical manual) to interpret the codes.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regularly clean dust from the motherboard and components using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
• Firmware Updates: Check the manufacturer's website for BIOS/UEFI updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
• Component Checks: Periodically check all cable connections to ensure they are secure.

7. Troubleshooting

• System Fails to Boot:
  • Check all power connections (24-pin, 8-pin CPU).
  • Ensure RAM modules are correctly seated.
  • Verify CPU installation and cooler attachment.
  • Check the diagnostic card for POST codes and consult the code list for specific errors.
• Memory Incompatibility:
  • If experiencing issues with memory, try using DDR4 modules from international brands such as Samsung, Kingston, Sandy, Micron, or Hynix.
  • Ensure memory speed and type (desktop or server ECC) are compatible with the motherboard and CPU.
• Insufficient Power:
  • If the system is unstable or fails to power on, ensure your power supply is at least 500W and functioning correctly.
• CPU Compatibility:
  • The motherboard supports Intel LGA 2011-3 pin series processors, including Intel Xeon E5 V3/V4 series. For example, an Intel Xeon E5 1650v4 processor should be compatible as it uses the LGA 2011-3 socket. Always verify specific CPU model compatibility with the manufacturer's support resources if unsure.

8. Specifications

9. User Tips

• CPU Compatibility: While the motherboard supports LGA 2011-3 Xeon processors, specific models like the E5 1650v4 are generally compatible. Always cross-reference with the latest compatibility lists if you plan to use a processor not explicitly mentioned in your bundle.
• Power Supply: A stable and sufficient power supply (minimum 500W from a reputable brand) is crucial for system stability, especially with high-performance CPUs and graphics cards.
• Memory Brands: To avoid potential incompatibility issues, it is recommended to use DDR4 memory modules from well-known international brands such as Samsung, Kingston, Sandy, Micron, or Hynix.

10. Warranty and Support

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