GIGABYTE GA-X99-Phoenix SLI Motherboard User Manual

1. oorview

The GIGABYTE GA-X99-Phoenix SLI is an ATX motherboard designed for high-performance computing. It supports Intel Core i7 Broadwell-E processors on the LGA2011-3 socket and features the Intel X99 chipset. This motherboard is equipped with Quad Channel DDR4 memory support, multiple PCIe slots for 3-Way/2-Way SLI and CrossFire configurations, and advanced storage options including NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 M.2 and U.2 interfaces. It also integrates Intel USB 3.1 with Type-C, dual Intel Gigabit Ethernet, and Intel 802.11ac wireless connectivity.

Figuur 1: Bo-na-onder view of the GIGABYTE GA-X99-Phoenix SLI motherboard, showcasing its layout including the CPU socket, RAM slots, PCIe slots, and various connectors.

2. Opstelling en installering

2.1 Kontrolelys voor die installasie

• Kasversoenbaarheid: Ensure your PC case supports the E-ATX form factor. Standard ATX cases may not accommodate this motherboard.
• Verwerker: Verify you have an Intel Core i7 processor compatible with the LGA 2011-3 socket.
• Geheue: Use DDR4 DIMMs. The motherboard supports Quad Channel, Registered / Non-ECC Unbuffered DDR4.
• Kragtoevoer: 'n Stabiele kragtoevoereenheid (PSU) met voldoende watttage is crucial for system stability.

2.2 Moederbord installasie

1. Berei die saak voor: Installeer die I/O-skerm in die agterste opening van jou rekenaarkas.
2. Monteer die moederbord: Carefully align the motherboard with the standoffs in your case and secure it with screws.
3. Installeer SVE: Open the CPU socket lever, align the CPU with the socket (matching the golden triangle on the CPU to the mark on the socket), gently place the CPU, and close the lever.
4. Installeer die CPU-verkoeler: Heg jou gekose SVE-verkoeler aan volgens die vervaardiger se instruksies.
5. Installeer geheue (RAM): Open the clips on the DDR4 DIMM slots. Align the memory modules with the slots, ensuring the notch on the module matches the key in the slot. Press down firmly until the clips snap into place. For optimal performance, populate memory in a quad-channel configuration as recommended by the motherboard manual.
6. Koppel krag: Connect the 24-pin ATX main power connector and the 8-pin CPU power connector from your PSU to the motherboard.
7. Koppel stoortoestelle: Connect SATA, M.2, or U.2 drives to the appropriate ports.
8. Koppel randapparatuur: Connect front panel headers (power, reset, USB, audio), USB devices, and other peripherals.

Figuur 2: Hoekig view of the motherboard, highlighting the rear I/O panel and the layout of the PCIe and RAM slots.

2.3 Aanvanklike opstart en BIOS-toegang

After connecting all necessary components, power on your system. During the Power-On Self-Test (POST), press the DEL key repeatedly to enter the UEFI BIOS setup. You may also press the Einde key during POST to access Q-Flash for BIOS updates.

3. Bediening van die moederbord

3.1 UEFI BIOS Navigation

The GIGABYTE UEFI BIOS provides a graphical interface for system configuration. While mouse navigation is available, some users may find the keyboard more responsive for precise control due to potential mouse lag within the BIOS environment.

3.2 Overclocking Features

This motherboard offers robust overclocking capabilities. For users new to overclocking, GIGABYTE's EasyTune utility (part of the APP Center) provides one-click overclocking options (e.g., 3.8GHz, 4.0GHz, 4.2GHz) for compatible CPUs. Memory overclocking can be adjusted directly in the BIOS by selecting desired speeds from a dropdown menu, allowing the motherboard to manage voltage settings automatically.

3.3 Sagteware-hulpprogramme

Die GIGABYTE APP Center provides access to various utilities, including:

• Maklike Tune: For system tuning, monitoring, and overclocking.
• Wolkstasie: For cloud-based data management and sharing.
• Other utilities for fan control, system information, and more.

3.4 Audio and Network

The motherboard features 115dB SNR HD Audio with a built-in rear audio amplifier for enhanced sound quality. Network connectivity is provided by Dual Intel Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports, which can be optimized with cFosSpeed Internet Accelerator Software, and integrated Intel 802.11ac Dual Band Wireless with Bluetooth 4.2.

Figure 3: Close-up of the rear I/O panel, showing various ports including USB, Ethernet, audio jacks, and wireless antenna connectors.

4. Onderhoud

4.1 CMOS-battery

The motherboard uses a Lithium Metal battery (CR2032) to retain BIOS settings and the system clock when the computer is powered off. If you experience issues with incorrect time/date or lost BIOS settings, the CMOS battery may need replacement. Refer to the motherboard diagram for its location.

4.2 BIOS-opdaterings

GIGABYTE's Q Flash Plus utility allows you to update the BIOS without installing a CPU, memory, or graphics card. Simply download the latest BIOS version from the GIGABYTE website, place it on a USB flash drive, and follow the instructions for Q-Flash Plus. Regular BIOS updates can improve system stability, compatibility, and performance.

5. Probleemoplossing

5.1 Algemene kwessies

• System Fails to POST (Power-On Self-Test):
  • Kontroleer alle kragverbindings (24-pen ATX, 8-pen SVE).
  • Ensure CPU and RAM are correctly seated.
  • Verify the CPU cooler is properly installed.
  • Try booting with only essential components (CPU, one RAM stick, GPU if no integrated graphics).
• System Freezes or is Unstable:
  • Ensure the BIOS is updated to the latest stable version. Early BIOS versions may have compatibility issues.
  • Kontroleer die SVE- en GPU-temperature om oorverhitting uit te skakel.
  • As jy oorklok, keer terug na die verstekwaardes om stabiliteit te kontroleer.
  • Voer geheuediagnostiese gereedskap uit om die RAM-integriteit na te gaan.
• No Debug Code LED: This motherboard does not feature a debug code LED. Troubleshooting will rely on beep codes (if enabled) or visual inspection of components.
• Mouse Lag in BIOS: This is a known characteristic for some users. Use keyboard navigation for a more responsive experience.

6. Spesifikasies