ATUOTIN X99 Dual Computer Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the ATUOTIN X99 Dual Computer Motherboard. This high-performance mainboard is designed for demanding workstation and server environments, offering robust dual CPU support, extensive memory capacity, and flexible storage options. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure you get the most out of your motherboard.

2. Package Contents

Please check the package contents carefully. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer.

• 1 x ATUOTIN X99 Dual Computer Motherboard
• 1 x I/O Baffle
• 1 x SATA Data Cable (may vary)

3. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the layout and components of your X99 Dual Computer Motherboard.

Figure 3.1: Motherboard Key Features - Highlighting dual LGA 2011 sockets, 8 DDR4 slots, and dual M.2 NVMe support.

Figure 3.2: Professional Connectivity - Illustrates the I/O panel features including Gigabit LAN, HD Audio, and multiple USB ports.

Figure 3.3: Top-Down View - A comprehensive view of the motherboard layout.

Key Components:

• CPU Sockets: Two LGA 2011 sockets for Intel Xeon E5/E7 series and i7-3820 CPUs.
• Memory Slots: Eight DDR4 DIMM slots supporting up to 256GB total RAM.
• Storage: Two M.2 NVMe slots (one with NGFF switch) and eight SATA 3.0 ports.
• Expansion Slots: Two PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and two PCIe x1 slots for other expansion cards.
• Rear I/O Panel: Includes USB 3.0, USB 2.0, Gigabit LAN, and audio jacks.
• Power Connectors: 24-pin ATX power connector and two 8-pin ATX_CPU power connectors.

4. Setup Instructions

Before installation, ensure your system is powered off and unplugged. Wear an anti-static wrist strap to prevent damage to components.

4.1. CPU Installation

1. Locate the two LGA 2011 CPU sockets.
2. Open the CPU socket retention mechanism by pushing down the lever and moving it outwards.
3. Carefully align the CPU with the socket, ensuring the gold triangle on the CPU matches the triangle on the socket. Do not force the CPU into place.
4. Once aligned, gently lower the CPU into the socket.
5. Close the retention mechanism by pushing the lever back into its locked position.
6. Repeat for the second CPU.
7. Apply thermal paste to the top of each CPU and install compatible CPU coolers.

4.2. Memory (RAM) Installation

1. Locate the eight DDR4 DIMM slots.
2. Open the clips at both ends of the memory slot.
3. Align the notch on the DDR4 memory module with the key in the DIMM slot.
4. Insert the memory module firmly into the slot until the clips snap into place.
5. For optimal performance, populate memory in a balanced configuration across both CPUs (e.g., 4 modules per CPU for quad-channel).

4.3. Storage Device Installation

4.3.1. M.2 NVMe SSD Installation

1. Locate the two M.2 slots on the motherboard.
2. Remove the M.2 standoff screw from the desired slot.
3. Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at a 30-degree angle.
4. Gently push down the SSD and secure it with the standoff screw.
5. Note: One M.2 slot supports NGFF switch, refer to motherboard silkscreen for details.

4.3.2. SATA Drive Installation

1. Locate the eight SATA 3.0 ports.
2. Connect one end of the SATA data cable to a SATA port on the motherboard and the other end to your SATA HDD/SSD.
3. Connect a SATA power cable from your power supply to the SATA HDD/SSD.

4.4. Graphics Card (GPU) Installation

1. Locate the PCIe x16 slots.
2. Remove the corresponding expansion slot cover from your PC case.
3. Align your graphics card with the PCIe x16 slot and press down firmly until it is fully seated and the retention clip locks.
4. Secure the graphics card to the case with a screw.
5. Connect any necessary PCIe power cables from your power supply to the graphics card.

4.5. Power Connections

1. Connect the 24-pin ATX main power cable from your power supply to the 24-pin connector on the motherboard.
2. Connect the two 8-pin ATX_CPU power cables from your power supply to the two 8-pin CPU power connectors on the motherboard.

4.6. Front Panel and Rear I/O Connections

1. Connect your PC case's front panel connectors (Power SW, Reset SW, HDD LED, Power LED, USB 2.0/3.0, Audio) to the corresponding headers on the motherboard. Refer to the motherboard's silkscreen labels for correct pin assignments.
2. Install the provided I/O baffle into your PC case's rear I/O opening.
3. Connect your peripherals (keyboard, mouse, monitor, Ethernet cable, speakers) to the appropriate ports on the rear I/O panel.

Figure 4.1: Motherboard I/O Ports - Illustrates the various connectivity options.

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. During the boot process, press the DEL or F2 key repeatedly to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility.
3. In the BIOS, you can configure boot order, system time, CPU settings, memory timings, and enable/disable various features.
4. Save changes and exit the BIOS to continue booting into your operating system installer.

5.2. RAID Configuration

This motherboard supports RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations for SATA drives. To set up RAID:

1. Enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility.
2. Navigate to the storage configuration section and set the SATA mode to RAID.
3. Save changes and exit. The system will typically prompt you to enter the RAID BIOS utility (often by pressing Ctrl+I or similar during POST).
4. Follow the on-screen instructions in the RAID utility to create your desired RAID array.
5. Ensure you have the necessary RAID drivers for your operating system installation.

6. Maintenance

• Keep it Clean: Regularly clean dust from your PC case and motherboard components using compressed air. Ensure fans (CPU, case, GPU) are free from obstructions.
• Ensure Airflow: Maintain good airflow within your PC case to prevent overheating.
• Driver Updates: Keep your motherboard drivers (chipset, LAN, audio) and BIOS/UEFI firmware updated for optimal performance and stability. Check the manufacturer's website for the latest versions.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the motherboard within its specified environmental conditions (-20°C to 60°C, 0-95% relative humidity, non-condensing).

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, try the following steps:

• No Power: Check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU, GPU power). Ensure the power supply is switched on.
• No Display: Verify monitor connection and input source. Reseat the graphics card and RAM modules. Try booting with only one RAM stick.
• System Instability/Crashes: Check CPU and GPU temperatures. Ensure all components are properly seated. Run memory diagnostic tools.
• POST Codes: The motherboard may feature a 2-digit POST code display. Refer to the motherboard manufacturer's documentation (if available) for the meaning of specific codes.
• Peripheral Issues: Ensure drivers are installed correctly. Try different USB ports or devices.
• BIOS Reset: If system settings are incorrect, clear the CMOS by removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes or using the CLR_CMOS jumper (if present).

8. Specifications

Figure 8.1: Motherboard Dimensions.

9. User Tips

No specific user tips are available at this time. For best performance, ensure all components are compatible and properly installed, and maintain good airflow within your PC case.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please contact your original point of purchase or the manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Figure 10.1: Motherboard with Included Accessories.