ASRock X870E Taichi Lite Motherboard User Manual

Chapter 1 Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the ASRock X870E Taichi Lite motherboard. This manual details its features, specifications, and installation procedures. ASRock is committed to quality and endurance. Specifications and BIOS software may be updated without notice; the latest version will be available on the ASRock website (http://www.asrock.com).

1.1 Package Contents

• ASRock X870E Taichi Lite Motherboard (EATX Form Factor)
• 4 x Serial ATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional)
• 1 x ASRock WiFi 2.4/5/6 GHz Antenna (Optional)
• 1 x ARGB Splitter Cable (Optional)
• 3 x Thermistor Cables (Optional)

1.2 Specifications

For detailed product information, visit http://www.asrock.com. Overclocking carries risks and is done at the user's own expense.

Chapter 2 Installation

This is an EATX form factor motherboard. Ensure your chassis accommodates it.

Pre-installation Precautions

• Unplug the power cord before installing or removing components.
• Avoid static electricity: do not place the motherboard on carpet; use a grounded wrist strap or touch a grounded object.
• Handle components by the edges, avoiding ICs.
• Place removed components on an anti-static pad or bag.
• Do not overtighten screws when securing the motherboard.

2.1 Installing the CPU

Ensure the CPU socket is clean and pins are not bent. Unplug all power cables before installation.

Steps:

1. Turn the CPU to the correct orientation.
2. Open the CPU socket lever and cover.
3. Carefully place the CPU into the socket, ensuring it lies flat. Do not drop it.
4. Align the CPU with the socket markings (e.g., triangle).
5. Close the socket lever to secure the CPU. The black cover plate should pop off.
6. Save the CPU socket cover for future use or service.

Diagrams show CPU orientation, socket opening, CPU placement, and lever closing.

2.2 Installing the CPU Fan and Heatsink

A heatsink and fan are necessary to dissipate CPU heat. Apply thermal grease between the CPU and heatsink for optimal heat dissipation. Ensure secure fastening and good contact.

Steps (General):

1. Turn off power or remove the power cord.
2. Apply thermal grease to the CPU surface.
3. Mount the heatsink according to its specific instructions, ensuring it is securely fastened to the motherboard.
4. Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU_FAN1 or CPU_FAN2 header on the motherboard.
5. For coolers with RGB lighting, connect the RGB cable to the RGB_LED1 header or a USB header as specified by the cooler manufacturer (e.g., using ASRock Polychrome SYNC or AMD utility).

Diagrams illustrate the process of attaching CPU coolers of different types and connecting fan/RGB cables to motherboard headers.

2.3 Installing Memory Modules (DIMM)

This motherboard has four 288-pin DDR5 DIMM slots supporting Dual Channel Memory Technology.

Important Notes:

• For Dual Channel, install identical DDR5 DIMM pairs (same brand, speed, size, chip-type).
• Dual Channel requires one or two memory modules installed in specific slots.
• Do not install DDR, DDR2, DDR3, or DDR4 modules into DDR5 slots, as this can damage the motherboard and DIMM.
• DIMMs fit only in one correct orientation. Forcing an incorrectly oriented DIMM will cause permanent damage.

Recommended Memory Configuration:

• 1 DIMM: Install in A1.
• 2 DIMMs: Install in A1 and B1 for Dual Channel.
• 4 DIMMs: Install in A1, A2, B1, and B2 for maximum capacity and Dual Channel.

Diagrams show recommended DIMM slot population for 1, 2, and 4 DIMMs.

Installation Steps:

1. Open the retention clips on the DIMM slots.
2. Align the DIMM's notch with the slot's key.
3. Insert the DIMM vertically and press down evenly on both ends until the retention clips snap into place.

2.4 Connecting the Front Panel Header

Connect the chassis's front panel wires to the System Panel Header (PANEL1) and Power LED and Speaker Header (SPK_PLED1) according to the pin assignments.

System Panel Header (PANEL1):

• PWRBTN: Connect to the chassis power button.
• RESET: Connect to the chassis reset button.
• PLED: Connect to the system power LED.
• HDLED: Connect to the hard drive activity LED.

Ensure correct polarity (+/-) for LEDs and buttons.

Diagrams show the pinouts for PANEL1 and SPK_PLED1 headers, and how front panel wires connect.

2.5 Installing the Motherboard

Place the motherboard into the chassis, aligning the screw holes with the standoffs. Secure the motherboard with screws. Ensure no part of the motherboard touches the chassis directly.

2.6 Installing SATA Drives

Connect SATA data cables from storage devices (e.g., HDDs, SSDs, optical drives) to the SATA3 connectors on the motherboard. Connect SATA power cables from the power supply to the storage devices.

Diagrams show connecting SATA data cables to the motherboard and SATA power connectors to drives.

2.7 Installing a Graphics Card

The motherboard has two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (PCIE1, PCIE2).

• PCIE1: Supports PCIe 5.0 x16 (or x8/x8 with two cards). Runs at Gen5x16 with 9000/7000 series CPUs, Gen4x8 with 8000 (Phoenix 1), Gen4x4 with 8000 (Phoenix 2).
• PCIE2: Supports PCIe 5.0 x16 (or x8/x8 with two cards).

Installation:

1. Open the retention clip on the desired PCIe slot.
2. Remove the corresponding expansion slot cover(s) from the chassis.
3. Align the graphics card with the slot and press down firmly until it clicks into place.
4. Secure the graphics card to the chassis with screws.

For better thermal performance with multiple graphics cards, connect chassis fans to the motherboard's fan headers.

Diagrams illustrate inserting a graphics card into a PCIe slot.

2.8 Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connect external devices such as keyboards, mice, monitors, and USB devices to the appropriate ports on the rear I/O panel or internal headers.

2.9 Connecting the Power Connectors

Connect the 24-pin ATX power connector (ATXPWR1) and the 8-pin ATX 12V power connector(s) (ATX12V1, ATX12V2) from the power supply unit to the motherboard. Ensure the correct cables are used (CPU power, not PCIe power).

Diagrams show the location and connection of the 24-pin ATX and 8-pin ATX 12V power connectors.

2.10 Power On

After all components are installed and connected, connect the power cord and press the power button to turn on the system.

Diagrams show the power button and the sequence of powering on.

2.11 Jumpers Setup

Jumpers are used to configure specific motherboard settings. A jumper cap connects two pins to "Short" the connection; removing the cap leaves it "Open".

• Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1): Located near the CMOS battery. To clear CMOS data (system password, date, time, setup parameters), turn off the computer, unplug the power cord, short CLRCMOS1 pins for 3 seconds, then remove the jumper cap. Clear CMOS after BIOS updates if necessary.

Diagram shows the CLRCMOS1 jumper and its short/open states.

2.12 Onboard Headers and Connectors

Onboard headers and connectors are for specific component connections and do not use jumper caps.

• System Panel Header (PANEL1): For chassis power button, reset button, power LED, and HDD LED. Connect wires according to pin assignments, noting polarity.
• Power LED and Speaker Header (SPK_PLED1): For chassis power LED and speaker.
• Serial ATA3 Connectors (SATA3_1 to SATA3_6): Six connectors for internal storage devices, supporting up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer rate.
• USB 2.0 Headers (USB_3_4, USB_5_6): Two headers, each supporting two USB 2.0 ports.
• USB 3.2 Gen1 Headers (USB32_9_10, USB32_11_12): Two headers, each supporting two USB 3.2 Gen1 ports.
• Front Panel Type C USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Header (USB32_TC1): For connecting a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C port to the front panel.
• Front Panel Audio Header (HD_AUDIO1): For connecting front panel audio devices. Supports Jack Sensing if chassis wiring is compatible.
• Chassis Fan Connectors (CHA_FAN1-4): Four 4-pin headers for case or radiator fans. Supports Smart Fan Speed Control. Can connect 3-pin fans to pins 1-3.
• CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1): 4-pin header for CPU fan. Supports Smart Fan Speed Control. Can connect 3-pin fans to pins 1-3.
• CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN2): 4-pin header for CPU fan or Water Pump. Supports Smart Fan Speed Control. Can connect 3-pin fans/pumps to pins 1-3.
• Water Pump Fan Connector (W_PUMP): 4-pin header for Water Pump or fan. Supports Smart Fan Speed Control. Can connect 3-pin fans to pins 1-3.
• AIO Pump Fan Connector (AIO_PUMP): 4-pin header for AIO pump or fan. Supports Smart Fan Speed Control. Can connect 3-pin fans to pins 1-3.
• ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1): 24-pin connector for main ATX power. A 20-pin ATX supply can be used by aligning with pins 1 and 13.
• ATX 12V Power Connectors (ATX12V1, ATX12V2): Two 8-pin connectors for CPU power. A 4-pin ATX 12V supply can be used by aligning with pins 1 and 5. Ensure using CPU power cables, not PCIe power cables.
• Thermistor Cable Headers (T_SENSOR1-3): 2-pin headers to connect thermistor cables for monitoring component temperatures.
• RGB LED Header (RGB_LED1): 4-pin header for standard 5050 RGB LED strips (12V/G/R/B, max 3A/12V, 2m length). Connects to ASRock Polychrome SYNC utility. Ensure correct orientation.
• Addressable LED Headers (ADDR_LED1-3): 3-pin headers for addressable RGB LED strips (e.g., WS2812B, 5V/Data/GND, max 3A/5V, 2m length). Connects to ASRock Polychrome SYNC utility. Ensure correct orientation. An ARGB Splitter Cable may be included.

Diagrams show the pinouts and connections for each header and connector.

2.13 Smart Buttons

• Power Button (PWRBTN1): Turns the system on/off.
• Reset Button (RSTBTN1): Resets the system.
• Clear CMOS Button (CLRCMOS): Clears CMOS values. Must be used when the computer is powered off and unplugged.
• BIOS Flashback Button (BIOS_FB): Allows flashing the BIOS without powering on the system or needing a CPU. Requires a FAT32 formatted USB drive with the BIOS file renamed to "creative.rom". Plug the USB drive into the dedicated port and press the button for three seconds. Wait for the LED to stop blinking. Suspend BitLocker and disable fTPM before using this feature.

Diagrams show the location of the Power, Reset, Clear CMOS, and BIOS Flashback buttons.

2.14 Dr. Debug

Dr. Debug displays POST (Power-On Self-Test) codes to aid in troubleshooting.

2.15 M.2 SSD Installation Guide (M2_1)

The Blazing M.2 Socket (M2_1, Key M) supports type 2280 PCIe Gen5x4 (128 Gb/s) mode.

Steps:

1. Prepare an M.2 SSD.
2. Identify the correct nut location on the motherboard standoff based on the M.2 SSD's PCB length (typically 8cm for Type 2280).
3. If using the M.2 heatsink, push and hold its release button, lift the heatsink, and move it aside. Remove protective films from the heatsink's bottom.
4. Align the M.2 SSD with the M.2 slot and gently insert it. The SSD fits in only one orientation.
5. Ensure the M.2 SSD's notch aligns with the nut. Secure the SSD by turning the nut lock clockwise.
6. Hook the M.2 heatsink tab back onto the standoff.
7. Press the M.2 heatsink down into place, ensuring the release button is not pressed.
8. Installation is complete.

Diagrams illustrate preparing the M.2 SSD, identifying nut locations, removing/attaching the heatsink, inserting the SSD, securing it with the nut, and completing the installation.

For the latest M.2 SSD support list, visit http://www.asrock.com.

2.16 M.2 SSD Installation Guide (M2_2)

The Hyper M.2 Socket (M2_2, Key M) supports type 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 (64 Gb/s) mode.

Steps:

1. Prepare an M.2 SSD.
2. Identify the correct nut location on the motherboard standoff based on the M.2 SSD's PCB length (typically 8cm for Type 2280).
3. If using the M.2 heatsink, push and hold its release button, lift the heatsink, and move it aside. Remove protective films from the heatsink's bottom.
4. Align the M.2 SSD with the M.2 slot and gently insert it. The SSD fits in only one orientation.
5. Ensure the M.2 SSD's notch aligns with the nut. Secure the SSD by turning the nut lock clockwise.
6. Hook the M.2 heatsink tab back onto the standoff.
7. Press the M.2 heatsink down into place, ensuring the release button is not pressed.
8. Installation is complete.

Diagrams illustrate the M.2 SSD installation process, similar to M2_1.

For the latest M.2 SSD support list, visit http://www.asrock.com.

2.17 M.2 SSD Installation Guide (M2_3 and M2_4)

The Hyper M.2 Sockets (M2_3 and M2_4, Key M) support type 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 (64 Gb/s) mode.

Steps:

1. Prepare an M.2 SSD.
2. Identify the correct nut location on the motherboard standoff based on the M.2 SSD's PCB length (typically 8cm for Type 2280).
3. Loosen the screws to remove the M.2 heatsink. Remove protective films from the heatsink's bottom.
4. Align the M.2 SSD with the M.2 slot and gently insert it. The SSD fits in only one orientation.
5. Ensure the M.2 SSD's notch aligns with the nut. Secure the SSD by turning the nut lock clockwise.
6. Tighten the screw with a screwdriver to secure the M.2 heatsink into place. Do not overtighten.
7. Installation is complete.

Diagrams illustrate the M.2 SSD installation process for M2_3 and M2_4, including heatsink attachment.

For the latest M.2 SSD support list, visit http://www.asrock.com.

Copyright and Disclaimer

Copyright © 2024 ASRock INC. All rights reserved. This documentation may not be reproduced without written consent. Product and company names are trademarks of their respective owners.

Specifications are for informational use only and subject to change without notice. ASRock assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions and provides no warranties, expressed or implied.

Compliance Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received. Tested to comply with Class B digital device limits.

Button Battery Safety Notice: Contains a CR2032 button cell battery. WARNING: INGESTION HAZARD. Keep out of reach of children. Seek immediate medical attention if swallowed.

California, USA Only: Lithium battery contains Perchlorate. Follow local regulations for disposal. WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm (www.P65Warnings.ca.gov).

CE Conformity: Declares compliance with essential requirements of EU Directives. Full text available at http://www.asrock.com.

UKCA Conformity: Declares compliance with essential requirements of UKCA Directives. Full text available at http://www.asrock.com.

Consumer Limited Warranty - Australia: Guarantees apply under the Australian Consumer Law. Contact ASRock for assistance.

Proper Disposal: Do not dispose of in municipal waste. Recycle electronic equipment according to local regulations.

Trademark Information: HDMI® and HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.

European Community Radio Equipment Directive Compliance: Complies with directive 2014/53/EU. Frequency ranges: 2.4 GHz (2400-2485MHz), 5 GHz (5150-5350MHz, 5470-5725MHz, 5725-5850MHz), 6 GHz (5955-6415MHz). Max Power Levels: 2.4 GHz: 20dBm; 5 GHz: 23dBm; 6 GHz: 23dBm. Operations in the 5.15-5.35/6GHz band are restricted to indoor usage only.

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) Compliance: Complies with licence-exempt RSS(s). Operation subject to two conditions: no interference, and acceptance of any interference. Operations in the 5150-5250 MHz band are for indoor use only.

NCC, BSMI, China RoHS: Compliance statements and substance lists are provided as per regional regulations.