ZSUS X99 Motherboard Series User Manual
For Intel LGA2011-3 Xeon E5 Platforms
1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive information for the ZSUS X99 series motherboards, designed for high-performance computing environments. It covers models X99, X99-8D3, and X99-8D4, supporting Intel LGA2011-3 Xeon E5 v3 and v4 series processors.
2. Product Overview
ZSUS X99 Motherboard
The ZSUS X99 series motherboards are engineered for stability, performance, and expandability, making them ideal for workstations and servers. They leverage the Intel LGA2011-3 socket and support a wide range of Xeon processors and ECC memory configurations.
Key Features
- Intel LGA2011-3 Socket for Xeon E5 v3/v4 Processors
- Support for DDR3 or DDR4 ECC Registered/Unbuffered Memory (model dependent)
- NVMe M.2 Slot for High-Speed Storage
- Multiple SATA 6Gb/s Ports
- PCI Express Slots for Graphics Cards and Expansion Cards
- High-Speed USB Connectivity
- Onboard Gigabit Ethernet
- High-Definition Audio
3. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| CPU Socket | Intel LGA2011-3 |
| Chipset | Intel X99 Chipset (or compatible) |
| Memory Type | DDR3 or DDR4 ECC (model dependent) |
| Memory Slots | Typically 4 or 8 DIMM slots |
| Max Memory Capacity | Varies by model, typically up to 128GB or 256GB |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 3.0 x16, PCIe 2.0 x1 (configuration varies) |
| Storage | NVMe M.2 Slot, SATA 6Gb/s ports |
| Networking | Gigabit LAN |
| Audio | HD Audio Codec |
| USB Ports | USB 3.0, USB 2.0 |
| Form Factor | ATX |
4. Motherboard Layout Description
The ZSUS X99 motherboard follows a standard ATX layout for ease of installation. The central component is the large LGA2011-3 CPU socket, designed to accommodate Intel Xeon processors. Surrounding the CPU socket are the voltage regulator modules (VRMs) and heatsinks for thermal management. Adjacent to the CPU socket, typically on the right side, are the DIMM slots for DDR3 or DDR4 memory modules. These slots are usually color-coded and arranged in pairs or quads to indicate dual or quad-channel memory configurations. Below the CPU and memory area, the Intel X99 chipset is usually covered by a heatsink. A series of expansion slots, primarily PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and additional PCIe x1 or x4 slots for other peripherals, are located below the chipset. Storage connectivity is provided by multiple SATA 6Gb/s ports, and a high-speed NVMe M.2 slot is also present for compatible SSDs. The rear I/O panel, located along the edge of the board, provides external connectivity including USB ports (USB 3.0 and USB 2.0), Ethernet ports, audio jacks, and potentially video outputs if the CPU supports integrated graphics (though Xeon CPUs often do not).
5. Installation and Setup
CPU Installation
To install the CPU, first lift the retention lever next to the LGA2011-3 socket. Align the triangle indicator on the CPU with the corresponding mark on the socket. Gently place the CPU into the socket without applying pressure. Once seated, lower the retention lever to secure the CPU. Ensure the CPU is correctly oriented before lowering the lever.
Memory (RAM) Installation
Open the clips on the DIMM slots. Align the notch on the RAM module with the key in the slot. Press down firmly on both ends of the module until it clicks into place and the clips secure it. Refer to the motherboard manual for specific slot population order for dual or quad-channel configurations.
Storage Device Installation
Connect SATA storage devices (HDDs, SSDs) using SATA data cables to the SATA ports on the motherboard and to the drives. For NVMe M.2 SSDs, locate the M.2 slot on the motherboard, remove the retention screw, insert the M.2 drive at an angle, and secure it with the screw.
Power Connections
Connect the main 24-pin ATX power connector and the 8-pin (or 4+4 pin) CPU power connector from the power supply unit (PSU) to the corresponding sockets on the motherboard.
6. BIOS/UEFI Configuration
Access the BIOS/UEFI setup utility by pressing the designated key (typically DEL or F2) during system startup. The BIOS/UEFI allows configuration of system settings, boot order, hardware parameters, and performance tuning.
7. Troubleshooting
No POST: Ensure CPU, RAM, and graphics card are properly seated. Check power connections. Try booting with minimal components.
Boot Errors: Verify boot device order in BIOS/UEFI. Ensure storage drives are properly connected and recognized.
System Instability: Check CPU and RAM temperatures. Ensure adequate cooling. Verify RAM compatibility and seating.
8. Support and Warranty
For further assistance, technical support, or warranty information, please visit the official ZSUS website or contact ZSUS customer service.
