Topton NAS Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Topton Q670/B760 8-Bay NAS Motherboard. Designed for Network Attached Storage (NAS) and firewall applications, this Mini ITX mainboard supports Intel 12th-14th generation LGA1700 processors, DDR5 memory, multiple NVMe and SATA storage options, and 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet for robust performance and connectivity.

2. Important Safety Information and Notices

• Cooling Requirement: This motherboard requires a good 115X compatible radiator for proper operation. Ensure adequate cooling is provided.
• Power Supply: The motherboard must be powered by connecting both the 24-pin and 4-pin ATX 12V power supply connectors simultaneously.
• CPU Compatibility: Do not use Intel F-series CPUs as they lack integrated graphics and will not provide display output. T-series CPUs are recommended for optimal compatibility and performance.
• Pre-shipment Testing: Each new motherboard undergoes thorough testing with a radiator before shipping. Traces of thermal grease on the copper plate are normal and indicate prior testing.

3. Product Overview

The Topton NAS Motherboard is a compact yet powerful Mini ITX solution for your storage and networking needs. Below are visual representations of the board and its key components.

Figure 3.1: Top-down view of the Topton NAS Motherboard, showing CPU socket, RAM slots, M.2 slots, SATA ports, and various I/O.

Figure 3.2: Angled view of the Topton NAS Motherboard, highlighting the LGA1700 socket and DDR5 SO-DIMM slots.

Figure 3.3: Side view of the Topton NAS Motherboard, showing the rear I/O panel with multiple USB and Ethernet ports.

Figure 3.4: Rear view of the Topton NAS Motherboard, showing the back of the PCB and the CPU cooler mounting plate.

Figure 3.5: Close-up of the rear I/O panel, specifically highlighting the four 2.5G Ethernet ports and USB ports.

Figure 3.6: Close-up views of Dual-channel DDR5 memory slots, HD + DP interface, and 2x M.2 + SATA interfaces.

3.7 Onboard Interface Diagram

Refer to the diagram below for a detailed layout of the motherboard's onboard interfaces and connectors.

Figure 3.7: Detailed diagram of the motherboard's onboard interfaces, including CPU, RAM, M.2, SATA, USB, LAN, Audio, and various headers.

4. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to set up your Topton NAS Motherboard.

1. CPU Installation:
   • Carefully open the LGA1700 CPU socket retention arm.
   • Align your Intel 12th-14th Gen processor with the socket, ensuring the notches match.
   • Gently place the CPU into the socket. Do not force it.
   • Close the retention arm to secure the CPU.
   

   Figure 4.1: Close-up of the LGA1700 processor socket.
2. Radiator Installation:
   • Apply thermal paste to the CPU if not pre-applied on your radiator.
   • Mount a compatible 115X radiator onto the motherboard, ensuring it is securely fastened and makes good contact with the CPU.
3. Memory (RAM) Installation:
   • Locate the two DDR5 SO-DIMM memory slots.
   • Open the clips on both ends of the memory slot.
   • 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.
4. Storage Installation:
   • M.2 NVMe SSDs: Insert M.2 SSDs into the designated M.2 2280 slots and secure them with the provided screw.
   • SATA Drives: Connect SATA data cables to the SATA 6Gb/s ports on the motherboard and to your SATA HDDs/SSDs. Connect SATA power cables from your power supply to the drives.
5. Power Supply Connection:
   • Connect the 24-pin ATX power connector from your power supply to the main power header on the motherboard.
   • Connect the 4-pin ATX 12V power connector to the CPU power header. Both must be connected for the board to power on.
6. Peripheral Connections:
   • Connect your display to either the DisplayPort (DP) or HDMI (HD) port on the rear I/O panel.
   • Connect Ethernet cables to the 2.5G Ethernet ports for network connectivity.
   • Connect USB devices to the available USB 3.2 Gen2 ports.
   • Connect front panel headers (power button, reset, USB, audio) according to the "Onboard interface instructions" diagram (Figure 3.7).

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Initial Power On and BIOS Setup

• After connecting all necessary components and power, press the power button to turn on the system.
• During startup, repeatedly press the designated key (usually DEL or F2) to enter the AMI EFI BIOS (UEFI only) setup utility.
• In the BIOS, you can configure boot order, system time, and other hardware settings.

5.2 Advanced Functions

• Power-on Boot: Configure the system to automatically power on when AC power is restored.
• Scheduled Boot: Set specific times for the system to power on automatically.
• Wake-up on LAN (WoL): Enable WoL in the BIOS to allow the system to be powered on remotely via a network signal.
• PXE Boot: Enable PXE boot for network-based operating system installation.
• Watchdog: The watchdog timer can be configured to automatically restart the system if it becomes unresponsive.
• Intel vPro (Q670 variant only): For Q670 chipsets, Intel vPro technology is supported, enabling advanced remote management capabilities. This requires specific CPU and network card (Intel i226-LM) compatibility and BIOS tuning.

Figure 5.1: Screenshots illustrating Intel EMA remote control features, including host management, endpoint actions, remote desktop, and BIOS access for repair/reinstallation.

6. Maintenance

• Keep Clean: Regularly clean dust from the motherboard and cooling components to ensure optimal airflow and prevent overheating. Use compressed air for best results.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the motherboard within the specified working temperature and humidity ranges to prolong its lifespan.
• BIOS Updates: Periodically check the manufacturer's website for BIOS updates to improve stability, compatibility, and performance.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Display Output:
  • Ensure your CPU has integrated graphics (avoid Intel F-series).
  • Verify display cables are securely connected to the motherboard and monitor.
  • Check that RAM modules are correctly seated.
• System Fails to Power On:
  • Confirm both the 24-pin and 4-pin ATX 12V power connectors are securely attached from the power supply to the motherboard.
  • Check power supply functionality.
  • Ensure the front panel power button header is correctly connected.
• System Unresponsive / Crashes:
  • If the system crashes or cannot enter the OS, you can restart and enter the BIOS to attempt repair or system reinstallation.
  • For Q670 boards with vPro, Intel EMA can be used for remote diagnosis and repair, even if the system is offline.
  • Check for overheating; ensure the radiator is properly installed and fans are functioning.
• Storage Detection Issues:
  • Verify M.2 SSDs are correctly seated and secured.
  • Check SATA data and power cable connections for all drives.
  • Ensure SATA ports are enabled in BIOS.

Figure 7.1: Summary of troubleshooting steps and remarks on vPro functionality and memory/heat dissipation.

8. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Topton NAS Motherboard (Model N16).

Figure 8.1: Comparison table detailing specifications for B760-NAS-MB and Q670-NAS-MB variants.

9. User Tips

• For optimal performance in NAS builds, consider using T-series Intel CPUs for their lower power consumption and integrated graphics.
• When setting up RAID configurations (Q670 variant), ensure you understand the implications of each RAID level (0, 1, 5, 10) for data redundancy and performance.
• Leverage the multiple 2.5G Ethernet ports for network segmentation or link aggregation to maximize network throughput for your NAS.

10. 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.