E7756v1 3 PDF

Z77MA-G43/
Z75MA-G43/
H77MA-G43
series MS-7756 (v1.x) Mainboard
G52-77561X6
Preface
Copyright Notice
The material in this document is the intellectual property of MICRO-STAR INTERNA-
TIONAL. We take every care in the preparation of this document, but no guarantee is
given as to the correctness of its contents. Our products are under continual improve-
ment and we reserve the right to make changes without notice.
Trademarks
All trademarks in this manual are properties of their respective owners.
￭ MSI® is registered trademark of Micro-Star Int’l Co.,Ltd.
￭ NVIDIA® is registered trademark of NVIDIA Corporation.
￭ ATI® is registered trademark of AMD Corporation.
￭ AMD® is registered trademarks of AMD Corporation.
￭ Intel® is registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
￭ Windows® is registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
￭ AMI® is registered trademark of American Megatrends Inc.
￭ Award® is a registered trademark of Phoenix Technologies Ltd.
￭ Sound Blaster® is registered trademark of Creative Technology Ltd.
￭ Realtek® is registered trademark of Realtek Semiconductor Corporation.
￭ JMicron® is registered trademark of JMicron Technology Corporation.
￭ Netware® is a registered trademark of Novell, Inc.
￭ Lucid® is trademarks of LucidLogix Technologies, Ltd.
￭ VIA® is registered trademark of VIA Technologies, Inc.
￭ ASMedia® is registered trademark of ASMedia Technology Inc.
￭ iPad, iPhone, and iPod are trademarks of Apple Inc.
Revision History
Revision Revision History Date
V1.0 First release for PCB 1.X 2012/ 01
V1.3 Update from v1.0 for PCB 1.X 2012/ 02
ii
MS-7756
Technical Support
If a problem arises with your system and no solution can be obtained from the user’s
manual, please contact your place of purchase or local distributor. Alternatively, please
try the following help resources for further guidance.
◙ Visit the MSI website for technical guide, BIOS updates, driver updates, and
other information: http://www.msi.com/service/download
Preface
◙ Contact our technical staff at: http://support.msi.com
Safety Instructions
￭ Always read the safety instructions carefully.
￭ Keep this User’s Manual for future reference.
￭ Keep this equipment away from humidity.
￭ Lay this equipment on a reliable flat surface before setting it up.
￭ The openings on the enclosure are for air convection hence protects the equipment
from overheating. DO NOT COVER THE OPENINGS.
￭ Make sure the voltage of the power source is at 110/220V before connecting the
equipment to the power inlet.
￭ Place the power cord such a way that people can not step on it. Do not place
anything over the power cord.
￭ Always Unplug the Power Cord before inserting any add-on card or module.
￭ All cautions and warnings on the equipment should be noted.
￭ Never pour any liquid into the opening that can cause damage or cause electrical
shock.
￭ If any of the following situations arises, get the equipment checked by service
personnel:
◯ The power cord or plug is damaged.
◯ Liquid has penetrated into the equipment.
◯ The equipment has been exposed to moisture.
◯ The equipment does not work well or you can not get it work according to User’s
Manual.
◯ The equipment has been dropped and damaged.
◯ The equipment has obvious sign of breakage.
￭ DO NOT LEAVE THIS EQUIPMENT IN AN ENVIRONMENT ABOVE 60oC (140oF),
IT MAY DAMAGE THE EQUIPMENT.
iii
Preface
FCC-B Radio Frequency Interference Statement

This equipment has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a Class
B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the measures listed below.
◯ Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
◯ Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
◯ Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
◯ Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.
Notice 1
The changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Notice 2
Shielded interface cables and A.C. power cord, if any, must be used in order to comply
with the emission limits.
VOIR LA NOTICE D’INSTALLATION AVANT DE RACCORDER AU RESEAU.
Micro-Star International
MS-7756
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
iv
MS-7756
Battery Information
European Union:
Batteries, battery packs, and accumulators should not be disposed of as
unsorted household waste. Please use the public collection system to
return, recycle, or treat them in compliance with the local regulations.
Preface
Taiwan:
For better environmental protection, waste batteries should be collected
separately for recycling or special disposal.
廢電池請回收
California, USA:
The button cell battery may contain perchlorate material and requires special handling
when recycled or disposed of in California.
For further information please visit:
http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate/
CAUTION: There is a risk of explosion, if battery is incorrectly replaced.

Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.
Chemical Substances Information

In compliance with chemical substances regulations, such as the EU REACH Regulation
(Regulation EC No. 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and the Council), MSI
provides the information of chemical substances in products at:
http://www.msi.com/html/popup/csr/evmtprtt_pcm.html
BSMI EMI 聲明
警告使用者:
這是甲類資訊產品，在居住的環境中使用時，可能會造成無線電干擾，在這種情況下，
使用者會被要求採取某些適當的對策。

Preface
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Statement
ENGLISH
To protect the global environment and as an environmentalist, MSI must re-
mind you that...
Under the European Union (“EU”) Directive on Waste Electrical and Elec-
tronic Equipment, Directive 2002/96/EC, which takes effect on August 13,
2005, products of “electrical and electronic equipment” cannot be discarded
as municipal wastes anymore, and manufacturers of covered electronic equipment will
be obligated to take back such products at the end of their useful life. MSI will comply
with the product take back requirements at the end of life of MSI-branded products that
are sold into the EU. You can return these products to local collection points.
DEUTSCH
Hinweis von MSI zur Erhaltung und Schutz unserer Umwelt
Gemäß der Richtlinie 2002/96/EG über Elektro- und Elektronik-Altgeräte dürfen Elek-
tro- und Elektronik-Altgeräte nicht mehr als kommunale Abfälle entsorgt werden. MSI
hat europaweit verschiedene Sammel- und Recyclingunternehmen beauftragt, die in
die Europäische Union in Verkehr gebrachten Produkte, am Ende seines Lebenszyklus
zurückzunehmen. Bitte entsorgen Sie dieses Produkt zum gegebenen Zeitpunkt aus-
schliesslich an einer lokalen Altgerätesammelstelle in Ihrer Nähe.
FRANÇAIS
En tant qu’écologiste et afin de protéger l’environnement, MSI tient à rappeler ceci...
Au sujet de la directive européenne (EU) relative aux déchets des équipement élec-
triques et électroniques, directive 2002/96/EC, prenant effet le 13 août 2005, que les
produits électriques et électroniques ne peuvent être déposés dans les décharges ou
tout simplement mis à la poubelle. Les fabricants de ces équipements seront obligés de
récupérer certains produits en fin de vie. MSI prendra en compte cette exigence relative
au retour des produits en fin de vie au sein de la communauté européenne. Par con-
séquent vous pouvez retourner localement ces matériels dans les points de collecte.
РУССКИЙ
Компания MSI предпринимает активные действия по защите окружающей среды,
поэтому напоминаем вам, что....
В соответствии с директивой Европейского Союза (ЕС) по предотвращению
загрязнения окружающей среды использованным электрическим и электронным
оборудованием (директива WEEE 2002/96/EC), вступающей в силу 13
августа 2005 года, изделия, относящиеся к электрическому и электронному
оборудованию, не могут рассматриваться как бытовой мусор, поэтому
производители вышеперечисленного электронного оборудования обязаны
принимать его для переработки по окончании срока службы. MSI обязуется
соблюдать требования по приему продукции, проданной под маркой MSI на
территории EC, в переработку по окончании срока службы. Вы можете вернуть
эти изделия в специализированные пункты приема.
vi
MS-7756
ESPAÑOL
MSI como empresa comprometida con la protección del medio ambiente, recomienda:
Bajo la directiva 2002/96/EC de la Unión Europea en materia de desechos y/o equi-
pos electrónicos, con fecha de rigor desde el 13 de agosto de 2005, los productos
clasificados como “eléctricos y equipos electrónicos” no pueden ser depositados en
los contenedores habituales de su municipio, los fabricantes de equipos electrónicos,
están obligados a hacerse cargo de dichos productos al termino de su período de vida.
Preface
MSI estará comprometido con los términos de recogida de sus productos vendidos en
la Unión Europea al final de su periodo de vida. Usted debe depositar estos productos
en el punto limpio establecido por el ayuntamiento de su localidad o entregar a una
empresa autorizada para la recogida de estos residuos.
NEDERLANDS
Om het milieu te beschermen, wil MSI u eraan herinneren dat….
De richtlijn van de Europese Unie (EU) met betrekking tot Vervuiling van Electrische
en Electronische producten (2002/96/EC), die op 13 Augustus 2005 in zal gaan kun-
nen niet meer beschouwd worden als vervuiling. Fabrikanten van dit soort producten
worden verplicht om producten retour te nemen aan het eind van hun levenscyclus.
MSI zal overeenkomstig de richtlijn handelen voor de producten die de merknaam MSI
dragen en verkocht zijn in de EU. Deze goederen kunnen geretourneerd worden op
lokale inzamelingspunten.
SRPSKI
Da bi zaštitili prirodnu sredinu, i kao preduzeće koje vodi računa o okolini i prirodnoj
sredini, MSI mora da vas podesti da…
Po Direktivi Evropske unije (“EU”) o odbačenoj ekektronskoj i električnoj opremi, Di-
rektiva 2002/96/EC, koja stupa na snagu od 13. Avgusta 2005, proizvodi koji spadaju
pod “elektronsku i električnu opremu” ne mogu više biti odbačeni kao običan otpad i
proizvođači ove opreme biće prinuđeni da uzmu natrag ove proizvode na kraju njihovog
uobičajenog veka trajanja. MSI će poštovati zahtev o preuzimanju ovakvih proizvoda
kojima je istekao vek trajanja, koji imaju MSI oznaku i koji su prodati u EU. Ove proiz-
vode možete vratiti na lokalnim mestima za prikupljanje.
POLSKI
Aby chronić nasze środowisko naturalne oraz jako firma dbająca o ekologię, MSI przy-
pomina, że...
Zgodnie z Dyrektywą Unii Europejskiej (“UE”) dotyczącą odpadów produktów elektry-
cznych i elektronicznych (Dyrektywa 2002/96/EC), która wchodzi w życie 13 sierpnia
2005, tzw. “produkty oraz wyposażenie elektryczne i elektroniczne “ nie mogą być trak-
towane jako śmieci komunalne, tak więc producenci tych produktów będą zobowiązani
do odbierania ich w momencie gdy produkt jest wycofywany z użycia. MSI wypełni
wymagania UE, przyjmując produkty (sprzedawane na terenie Unii Europejskiej) wy-
cofywane z użycia. Produkty MSI będzie można zwracać w wyznaczonych punktach
zbiorczych.
vii
Preface
TÜRKÇE
Çevreci özelliğiyle bilinen MSI dünyada çevreyi korumak için hatırlatır:
Avrupa Birliği (AB) Kararnamesi Elektrik ve Elektronik Malzeme Atığı, 2002/96/EC
Kararnamesi altında 13 Ağustos 2005 tarihinden itibaren geçerli olmak üzere, elektrikli
ve elektronik malzemeler diğer atıklar gibi çöpe atılamayacak ve bu elektonik cihazların
üreticileri, cihazların kullanım süreleri bittikten sonra ürünleri geri toplamakla yükümlü
olacaktır. Avrupa Birliği’ne satılan MSI markalı ürünlerin kullanım süreleri bittiğinde MSI
ürünlerin geri alınması isteği ile işbirliği içerisinde olacaktır. Ürünlerinizi yerel toplama
noktalarına bırakabilirsiniz.
ČESKY
Záleží nám na ochraně životního prostředí - společnost MSI upozorňuje...
Podle směrnice Evropské unie (“EU”) o likvidaci elektrických a elektronických výrobků
2002/96/EC platné od 13. srpna 2005 je zakázáno likvidovat “elektrické a elektronické
výrobky” v běžném komunálním odpadu a výrobci elektronických výrobků, na které se
tato směrnice vztahuje, budou povinni odebírat takové výrobky zpět po skončení je-
jich životnosti. Společnost MSI splní požadavky na odebírání výrobků značky MSI,
prodávaných v zemích EU, po skončení jejich životnosti. Tyto výrobky můžete odevzdat
v místních sběrnách.
MAGYAR
Annak érdekében, hogy környezetünket megvédjük, illetve környezetvédőként fellépve
az MSI emlékezteti Önt, hogy ...
Az Európai Unió („EU”) 2005. augusztus 13-án hatályba lépő, az elektromos és elek-
tronikus berendezések hulladékairól szóló 2002/96/EK irányelve szerint az elektromos
és elektronikus berendezések többé nem kezelhetőek lakossági hulladékként, és az
ilyen elektronikus berendezések gyártói kötelessé válnak az ilyen termékek visszavé-
telére azok hasznos élettartama végén. Az MSI betartja a termékvisszavétellel kapc-
solatos követelményeket az MSI márkanév alatt az EU-n belül értékesített termékek
esetében, azok élettartamának végén. Az ilyen termékeket a legközelebbi gyűjtőhelyre
viheti.
ITALIANO
Per proteggere l’ambiente, MSI, da sempre amica della natura, ti ricorda che….
In base alla Direttiva dell’Unione Europea (EU) sullo Smaltimento dei Materiali Elettrici
ed Elettronici, Direttiva 2002/96/EC in vigore dal 13 Agosto 2005, prodotti appartenenti
alla categoria dei Materiali Elettrici ed Elettronici non possono più essere eliminati come
rifiuti municipali: i produttori di detti materiali saranno obbligati a ritirare ogni prodotto
alla fine del suo ciclo di vita. MSI si adeguerà a tale Direttiva ritirando tutti i prodotti
marchiati MSI che sono stati venduti all’interno dell’Unione Europea alla fine del loro
ciclo di vita. È possibile portare i prodotti nel più vicino punto di raccolta
viii
MS-7756
▍ Contents
Copyright Notice�� ii
Trademarks�� ii
Revision History�� ii
Technical Support��iii
Preface
Safety Instructions��iii
FCC-B Radio Frequency Interference Statement�� iv
Battery Information�� v
Chemical Substances Information�� v
BSMI EMI 聲明�� v
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Statement�� vi
Chapter 1 Getting Started��1-1
Packing Contents�� 1-2
Optional Accessories�� 1-2
Assembly Precautions�� 1-3
Mainboard Specifications�� 1-4
Connectors Quick Guide�� 1-6
Back Panel Quick Guide�� 1-8
Mounting Screw Holes�� 1-14
Power Supply�� 1-15
Memory�� 1-16
Expansion Slots�� 1-18
Video/ Graphics Cards �� 1-19
Internal Connectors�� 1-22
Jumper�� 1-30
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup��2-1
Entering�� 2-2
Overview�� 2-2
Boot device priority bar�� 2-3
Operation�� 2-4
SETTINGS�� 2-5
OC�� 2-10
ECO�� 2-15
BROWSER�� 2-16
Installing Winki�� 2-16
ix
Preface
UTILITIES�� 2-17
Updating the BIOS with Live Update�� 2-19
SECURITY�� 2-20
Appendix A Realtek Audio�� A-1
Installing the Realtek HD Audio Driver��A-2
Software Configuration��A-3
Hardware Default Setting��A-5
Appendix B Intel RAID�� B-1
Introduction��B-2
Using Intel Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM��B-3
Installing Driver��B-10
Degraded RAID Array��B-12
System Acceleration (optional)��B-14
RST Synchronization (optional)��B-16

Chapter 1
Getting Started
Thank you for choosing the Z77MA-G43/ Z75MA-G43/
H77MA-G43 Series (MS-7756 v1.X) Micro-ATX main-
board. The Series mainboards are based on Intel®
Z77/ Z75/ H77 chipset for optimal system efficiency.
Designed to fit the advanced Intel® LGA1155 proces-
sor, the Z77MA-G43/ Z75MA-G43/ H77MA-G43 Series
mainboards deliver a high performance and professional
desktop platform solution.
Getting Started
Packing Contents
Driver / Utility
Mainboard User Guide Back IO Shield
DVD
SATA Cable
Optional Accessories
USB 2.0 USB 3.0 eSATA Power eSATA

Bracket Bracket Cable Bracket
M-Connector USB3 to USB2 SATA Power CrossFire

Connector Cable Cable
MSI
MultiConnect
Panel
* These pictures are for reference only and may vary without notice.
* The packing contents may vary according to the model you purchased.
* If you need to purchase the optional accessories or request part numbers, please visit
the MSI website at http://www.msi.com/index.php or consult the dealer.
1-2
MS-7756
Assembly Precautions
■ The components included in this package are prone to damage from electrostatic
discharge (ESD). Please adhere to the following instructions to ensure successful
computer assembly.
■ Always turn off the power supply and unplug the power cord from the power outlet
before installing or removing any computer component.
■ Ensure that all components are securely connected. Loose connections may cause
Chapter 1
the computer to not recognize a component or fail to start.
■ Hold the mainboard by the edges to avoid touching sensitive components.
■ It is recommended to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling
the mainboard to prevent electrostatic damage. If an ESD wrist strap is not available,
discharge yourself of static electricity by touching another metal object before han-
dling the mainboard.
■ Store the mainboard in an electrostatic shielding container or on an antistatic pad
whenever the mainboard is not installed.
■ Before turning on the computer, ensure that there are no loose screws or metal com-
ponents on the mainboard or anywhere within the computer case.
■ Do not use the computer in a high-temperature environment.
■ Do not boot the computer before installation is completed. This could cause perma-
nent damage to the components as well as injury to the user.
■ If you need help during any installation step, please consult a certified computer tech-
nician.
Important
A screwdriver (not included) may be required for computer assembly.
1-3
Getting Started
Mainboard Specifications
Processor Support
■ Support 3rd Generation Intel® Core™ i7/ Core™ i5/ Core™ i3/ Pentium®/ Celeron®
Processors for LGA 1155 socket
(For the latest information about CPU, please visit
http://www.msi.com/service/cpu-support)
Chipset
■ Intel® Z77/ Z75/ H77 chipset
Memory Support
■ 4x DDR3 DIMMs support DDR3 2667*(OC)/ 2400*(OC)/ 2133*(OC)/ 1866*(OC)/
1600/ 1333/ 1066 DRAM (Z77MA-G43/ Z75MA-G43, 32GB Max.)
■ 4x DDR3 DIMMs support DDR3 1600/ 1333/ 1066 DRAM (H77MA-G43, 32GB
Max.)
■ Supports Dual-Channel mode, two DIMMs per channel
(*OC = OverClocking, for more information on compatible components, please visit
http://www.msi.com/service/test-report)
LAN
■ Supports LAN 10/100/1000 Fast Ethernet by Realtek® RTL8111E
Audio
■ Integrated HD audio codec by Realtek® ALC892
■ 8-channel audio with jack sensing
■ Supports THX
SATA
■ 2x SATA 6Gb/s ports (SATA1~2) by Intel® Z77/ Z75/ H77
■ 4x SATA 3Gb/s ports (SATA3~6) by Intel® Z77/ Z75/ H77
RAID
■ SATA1~6 support Intel® Rapid Storage Technology (AHCI/ RAID 0/ 1/ 5/ 10)
USB 3.0
■ 2x USB 3.0 rear IO ports by Intel® Z77/ Z75/ H77
■ 1x USB 3.0 onboard connector by Intel® Z77/ Z75/ H77
Multi-GPU
■ Supports AMD® CrossFire™ Technology
1-4
MS-7756
Connectors
■ Back panel
- 1x PS/2 keyboard port
- 1x PS/2 mouse port
- 4x USB 2.0 ports
- 2x USB 3.0 ports
- 1x LAN port
- 1x VGA port**
Chapter 1
- 1x DVI-D port**, supporting a maximum resolution of 1920x1200
- 6x audio ports
(** This mainboard can support dual-display function by two onboard graphics output
ports).
■ On-Board
- 3x USB 2.0 connectors
- 1x USB 3.0 connector
- 1x TPM Module connector
- 1x Serial Port connector
- 1x Parallel Port connector
- 1x Front Panel Audio connector
- 1x Chassis Intrusion connector
- 1x MultiConnect Panel connector (optinoal)
- 1x Voice Genie connector (optional)
Slots
■ 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, PCI_E1, it supports up to PCIe 3.0 x16 speed
■ 1x PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, PCI_E4, it supports up to PCIe 2.0 x4 speed
■ 2x PCIe 2.0 x1 slots
Form Factor
■ Micro-ATX (24.4 cm X 24.4 cm)
Mounting Screw Holes
■ 8x mounting holes
1-5
Getting Started
Connectors Quick Guide

DIMM3
DIMM2
JPWR2 CPU DIMM4
DIMM1
SYSFAN2 CPUFAN SYSFAN1
JTURBO1
Back Panel
JPWR1
JUSB4
BATT
+
JBAT1
PCI_E1 JCI1
PCI_E2
SATA1/ 2
JCOM1
PCI_E3 SATA3/ 4
JTPM1
PCI_E4 SATA5/ 6
JFP1
JAUD1 JFP2
JLPT1 JUSB1/ 2/ 3
JDLED3
1-6
MS-7756
Connectors Reference Guide

Port Name Port Type Page
Back Panel 1-8
CPU LGA1155 CPU Socket 1-10
Chapter 1
CPUFAN,SYSFAN1~2 Fan Power Connectors 1-23
DIMM1~4 DDR3 Memory Slots 1-16
JAUD1 Front Panel Audio Connector 1-27
JBAT1 Clear CMOS Jumper 1-30
JCI1 Chassis Intrusion Connector 1-26
JCOM1 Serial Port Connector 1-28
JDLED3 Voice Genie Connector 1-29
JFP1, JFP2 Front Panel Connectors 1-24
JLPT1 Parallel Port Connector 1-28
JPWR1 ATX 24-pin Power Connector 1-15
JPWR2 ATX 4-pin Power Connector 1-15
JTPM1 TPM Module Connector 1-27
JTURBO1 MultiConnect Panel Connector 1-29
JUSB1~3 USB 2.0 Expansion Connectors 1-26
JUSB4 USB 3.0 Expansion Connector 1-25
PCI_E1~E4 PCIe Expansion Slot 1-18
SATA1~6 SATA Connector 1-22
1-7
Getting Started
Back Panel Quick Guide
Mouse LAN VGA Port
Line-In RS-Out
USB 2.0 Port
Line-Out CS-Out
Mic SS-Out
Keyboard USB 2.0 Port USB 3.0 Port DVI-D Port
▶ Mouse/Keyboard
The standard PS/2® mouse/keyboard DIN connector is for a PS/2® mouse/keyboard.
▶ LAN
Yellow Green/ Orange
The standard RJ-45 LAN jack is for connecting to
a Local Area Network (LAN).
LED Color LED State Condition
Left Yellow Off LAN link is not established.
On(Steady) LAN link is established.
On(flashing) The computer is communicating with another computer on the network.
Right Green Off 10 Mbits/sec data rate
On 100 Mbits/sec data rate
Orange On 1000 Mbits/sec data rate
▶ USB 2.0 Port

The USB 2.0 port is for attaching USB 2.0 devices such as keyboard, mouse, or other
USB 2.0-compatible devices.
▶ USB 3.0 Port

USB 3.0 port is backward-compatible with USB 2.0 devices. It supports data transfer
rate up to 5 Gbit/s (SuperSpeed).
Important
In order to use USB 3.0 devices, you must connect to a USB 3.0 port. If a USB cable is
used, it must be USB 3.0 compliant.
1-8
MS-7756
▶ VGA Port
The DB15-pin female connector is provided for monitor.
▶ DVI-D Port
The DVI-D (Digital Visual Interface-Digital) connector allows you to connect a LCD
monitor. It provides a high-speed digital interconnection between the computer and
its display device. To connect an LCD monitor, simply plug your monitor cable into the
Chapter 1
DVI-D connector, and make sure that the other end of the cable is properly connected
to your monitor (refer to your monitor manual for more information).
Important
The VGA and DVI-D ports on the mainboard are designed to serve as IGP (Integrated
Graphics Processor) used. If you installed a processor without integrated graphics chip,
these display ports will have no effect.
▶ Audio Ports
These connectors are used for audio devices. The color of the jack refers to the function
of the connector.
■ Blue-Line in: Used for connecting external audio outputting devices.
■ Green- Line out: Used as a connector for speakers or headphone.
■ Pink- Mic: Used as a connector for a microphone.
■ Black- RS-Out: Rear surround sound line out in 4/ 5.1/ 7.1 channel mode.
■ Orange- CS-Out: Center/ subwoofer line out in 5.1/ 7.1 channel mode.
■ Gray- SS-Out: Side surround sound line out in 7.1 channel mode.
1-9
Getting Started
CPU: LGA1155 CPU Socket
Introduction to LGA 1155 CPU

The surface of LGA 1155 CPU has
two alignment keys and a yellow
triangle to assist in correctly lining up
the CPU for mainboard placement. Alignment Key
The yellow triangle is the pin 1
indicator.
Yellow triangle is the

Pin 1 indicator
Important
Overheating
Overheating will seriously damage the CPU and system. Always make sure the cooling
fan can work properly to protect the CPU from overheating. Make sure that you apply
an even layer of thermal paste (or thermal tape) between the CPU and the heatsink to
enhance heat dissipation.
Replacing the CPU
While replacing the CPU, always turn off the system's power supply and unplug the
power supply’s power cord from the grounded outlet first to ensure the safety of CPU.
Overclocking
This mainboard is designed to support overclocking. Before attempting to overclock,
please make sure that all other system components can tolerate overclocking. Any
attempt to operate beyond product specifications is not recommend. MSI does not
guarantee the damages or risks caused by inadequate operation beyond product
specifications.
1-10
MS-7756
CPU & Cooler Installation

When installing a CPU, always remember to install a CPU cooler. A CPU cooler is
necessary to prevent overheating and maintain system stability. Follow the steps below
to ensure correct CPU and CPU cooler installation. Wrong installation can damage both
the CPU and the mainboard.
Chapter 1
1. Unhook and lift the loading lever to 2. The loading plate should
the fully open position. automatically lift up as the loading
lever is pushed to the fully open
position. Do not touch any of the
CPU socket pins.
3. Line up the CPU to fit the CPU 4. Close the loading plate and remove
socket. Be sure to hold the CPU by the plastic protective cap.
the base with the metal contacts
facing downward. The alignment
keys on the CPU will line up with the
edges of the CPU socket to ensure a
correct fit.
Alignment Key
1-11
Getting Started
5. Inspect the CPU to check if it is 6. Evenly spread a thin layer of

properly seated in the socket. Press thermal paste (or thermal tape) on
the loading lever down and lock it the top of the CPU. This will help in
under the retention tab. heat dissipation and prevent CPU
overheating.
7. Locate the CPU fan connector on the 8. Place the heatsink on the mainboard
mainboard. with the fan’s wires facing towards the
fan connector and the hooks matching
the holes on the mainboard.
BATT
+
1-12
MS-7756
9. Push down on the heatsink until the 10. Inspect the mainboard to ensure that
four clips get wedged into the holes the clip-ends have been properly
on the mainboard. Press the four locked in place.
hooks down to fasten the cooler. As
each hook locks into position a click
should be heard.
Chapter 1
Mainboard
Hook
11. Finally, attach the CPU fan cable

to the CPU fan connector on the
mainboard.
Important
• Do not touch the CPU socket pins.
• Confirm that the CPU cooler has formed a tight seal with the CPU before booting
your system.
• Whenever the CPU is not installed, always protect the CPU socket pins by covering
the socket with the plastic cap. (shown in Figure 1)
• Mainboard photos shown in this section are for demonstration purposes only. The
appearance of your mainboard may vary depending on the model purchased.
• Please refer to the documentation in the CPU cooler package for more details about
CPU cooler installation.
1-13
Getting Started
Mounting Screw Holes

When installing the mainboard, first install the necessary mounting stands required for
a mainboard on the mounting plate in your computer case. If there is an I/O back plate
that came with the computer case, please replace it with the I/O backplate that came
with the mainboard package. The I/O backplate should snap easily into the computer
case without the need for any screws. Align the mounting plate’s mounting stands with
the screw holes on the mainboard and secure the mainboard with the screws provided
with your computer case. The locations of the screw holes on the mainboard are shown
below. For more information, please refer to the manual that came with the computer
case.
I/O backplate.
should line up with the holes on the
the rear of the computer case. They
The I/O ports should be facing toward
BATT
+
Important
• Install the mainboard on a flat surface free from unnecessary debris.
• To prevent damage to the mainboard, any contact between the mainboard circuitry
and the computer case, except for the mounting stands, is prohibited.
• Please make sure there are no loose metal components on the mainboard or within
the computer case that may cause a short circuit of the mainboard.
1-14
MS-7756
Power Supply
JPWR1: ATX 24-pin Power Connector
This connector allows you to connect an ATX 24-pin power supply. To connect the ATX
24-pin power supply, align the power supply cable with the connector and firmly press
the cable into the connector. If done correctly, the clip on the power cable should be
hooked on the mainboard’s power connector.
Chapter 1
1 1.+ +1 B OK
2 1 2
1 0. VS R nd
.+ 2 V
1 5
3 V
.3
9 .P ro nd
.
V
8 .G 5V u
7 .+ ro
W
6 .G 5V un
5 .+ ro 3V
u
4 .G . V
3 .+3 3.3
2 .+
1
2 3.+ +5 V
d
4
2 2. +5 s un d
.G 5 V
BATT
2 . e
+
ro
2 0.R Gr rou un #
u
1
V
2 9. G ro ON d
n
d
1 8.
1 7.G PS ou
1 6. Gr 2V V
o
1 5. 1 .3
1 4.- +3
d
1 3.
n d
- n
1
JPWR2: ATX 4-pin Power Connector

This connector is used to provide power to the CPU.
1 .G
.G ro
2
ro un
u d
n
d
BATT
+
3 .+1
.+ 2
4
1 V
2
V
Important
Make sure that all the power cables are securely connected to a proper ATX power sup-
ply to ensure stable operation of the mainboard.
1-15
Getting Started
Memory
DIMM1~4: DDR3 Memory Slots
These DIMM slots are used for installing memory modules. For more information on
compatible components, please visit http://www.msi.com/service/test-report
DDR3
240-pin, 1.5V
48x2=96 pin 72x2=144 pin
Dual-Channel mode Population Rule

In Dual-Channel mode, the memory modules can transmit and receive data with two
data bus channels simultaneously. Enabling Dual-Channel mode can enhance system
performance. The following illustrations explain the population rules for Dual-Channel
mode.
1
DIMM1
DIMM2
DIMM3
DIMM4
2
DIMM1
DIMM2
DIMM3
DIMM4

Installed
Empty
Important
• DDR3 memory modules are not interchangeable with DDR2, and the DDR3 standard
is not backward compatible. Always install DDR3 memory modules in DDR3 DIMM
slots.
• To ensure system stability, memory modules must be of the same type and density.
• Due to chipset resource usage, the system will only detect up to 31+ GB of memory
(not full 32 GB) when all DIMM slots have 8GB memory modules installed.
1-16
MS-7756
Installing Memory Modules

1. Unlock the DIMM slot by pushing the mounting clips to the side. Vertically insert the
memory module into the DIMM slot. The memory module has an off-center notch on
the bottom that will only allow it to fit one way into the DIMM slot.
2. Push the memory module deep into the DIMM slot. The plastic clips at each side of
the DIMM slot will automatically close when the memory module is properly seated
and an audible click should be heard.
Chapter 1
3. Manually check if the memory module has been locked in place by the DIMM slot’s
side clips.
Notch
Volt
1-17
Getting Started
Expansion Slots
This mainboard contains numerous ports for expansion cards, such as discrete graphics
or audio cards.
PCI_E1~E4: PCIe Expansion Slot
The PCIe slot supports the PCIe interface expansion card.
PCIe 3.0 x16 Slot
PCIe 2.0 x16 Slot
PCIe 2.0 x1 Slot
Important
When adding or removing expansion cards, always turn off the power supply and
unplug the power supply power cable from the power outlet. Read the expansion card’s
documentation to check for any necessary additional hardware or software changes.
1-18
MS-7756
Video/ Graphics Cards

If available, this mainboard takes advantage of the CPU’s integrate graphics processor,
but discrete video cards can be installed by way of the mainboard’s expansion slots.
Adding on one or more discrete video cards will significantly boost the system’s graph-
ics performance. For best compatibility, MSI graphics cards are recommended.
Single Video Card Installation
Chapter 1
1. Determine what type of expansion slot(s) the video card will use. Locate the expan-
sion slot(s) on the mainboard. Remove any protective expansion slot covers from
the computer case.
2. Line up the video card on top of the expansion slot(s) with the display ports facing
out of the computer case. For a single video card installation, using the PCI_E1 slot
is recommended.
3. Push the video card into its expansion slot(s). Depending on the expansion slot(s)
used, there should be clip(s) on the expansion slot(s) that will lock in place.
4. If needed, screw the edge of the graphics card to the computer case. Some video
cards might require a power cable directly from the power supply.
5. Please consult your video card’s manual for further instructions regarding driver
installation or other special settings.
1-19
Getting Started
AMD CrossFire™ (Multi-GPU) Technology

AMD CrossFire™ is a multi-GPU performance gaming platform. By linking together two
or more discrete GPUs, CrossFire™ can significant improve system graphics perfor-
mance. It allows the ability to scale a system’s graphics power as needed, making it the
most scalable gaming platform. This mainboard will automatically detect CrossFire™
technology and make changes in the BIOS as needed. Follow the instructions below to
ensure a successful two-way CrossFire™ installation.
1. Install two AMD Radeon™ HD graphics cards into the PCI_E1 & PCI_E4 expansion
slots.
2. With the two cards installed, two CrossFire™ Video Link cable are required to con-
nect the graphics cards. Attach one side of the cable on each of the cards by way
of the metal contacts (please refer to the picture below). Please note that although
two graphics cards have been installed, only the display ports on the graphics card
installed in the first PCIe x16 slot will work. All displays should be connected to this
graphics card.
CrossFireTM Video Link cable
Important
• Please ensure that all graphics cards used in CrossFire™ mode are of the same
brand and specifications. For best compatibility with the mainboard, MSI graphics
cards are recommended.
• Make sure to connect an adequate power supply to the power connectors on the
graphics cards to ensure stable operation.
• Only Windows™ 7 will support CrossFire™ mode.
1-20
MS-7756
3. Boot up the computer and install the drivers and software included in your video
card package. For more information, please refer to the manual that came with your
video card.
4. After all of the hardware and software has been properly installed, reboot the sys-
tem. After entering the operating system (OS), right click on the desktop and choose
the “Catalyst Control Center”.
Chapter 1
5. The CrossFire™ setting must be enabled to allow CrossFire™ mode to operate.
The following screen appears in the Catalyst Control Center. Depending on your
operating system, the screen may look different.
Important
A CrossFireTM system has four possible display modes:
• SuperTiling
• Scissor Mode
• Alternate Frame Rendering
• Super Anti-aliasing.
For more details, please consult the graphics card manual.
1-21
Getting Started
Internal Connectors
SATA1~6: SATA Connector
This connector is a high-speed SATA interface port. Each connector can connect to one
SATA device. SATA devices include disk drives (HDD), solid state drives (SSD), and
optical drives (CD/ DVD/ Blu-Ray).
BATT
+
* The MB layout in this figure is for reference only.
SATA4
SATA3 SATA1~2 (6Gb/s)
SATA2 SATA3~6 (3Gb/s)
SATA1
SATA6
SATA5
Important
• Many SATA devices also need a power cable from the power supply. Such devices
include disk drives (HDD), solid state drives (SSD), and optical drives (CD / DVD /
Blu-Ray). Please refer to the device’s manual for further information.
• Many computer cases also require that large SATA devices, such as HDDs, SSDs,
and optical drives, be screwed down into the case. Refer to the manual that came
with your computer case or your SATA device for further installation instructions.
• Please do not fold the SATA cable at a 90-degree angle. Data loss may result during
transmission otherwise.
• SATA cables have identical plugs on either sides of the cable. However, it is rec-
ommended that the flat connector be connected to the mainboard for space saving
purposes.
1-22
MS-7756
CPUFAN,SYSFAN1~2: Fan Power Connectors

The fan power connectors support system cooling fans with +12V. If the mainboard has
a System Hardware Monitor chipset on-board, you must use a specially designed fan
with a speed sensor to take advantage of the CPU fan control. Remember to connect
all system fans. Some system fans may not connect to the mainboard and will instead
connect to the power supply directly. A system fan can be plugged into any available
system fan connector.
Chapter 1
BATT
+
1 .+ en tr
.G 1 s o
2 .S on
ro 2V or l
3 .C
u
4
n
d
CPUFAN
BATT
+
1 .+ en
.G 1 s
2 .S C
ro 2V or
3 .N
u
4
n
d
SYSFAN1~2
Important
• Please refer to your processor’s official website or consult your vendor to find recom-
mended CPU cooling fans.
• The CPUFAN connector supports Smart Fan Control with linear mode. The Control
Center II utility can be installed to automatically control the fan speeds according to
the CPU’s temperature.
• If there are not enough ports on the mainboard to connect all system fans, adapters
are available to connect a fan directly to a power supply.
• Before first boot up, ensure that there are no cables impeding any fan blades.
1-23
Getting Started
JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors

These connectors connect to the front panel switches and LEDs. The JFP1 connector
is compliant with the Intel® Front Panel I/O Connectivity Design Guide. When installing
the front panel connectors, please use the enclosed mConnectors to simplify installa-
tion. Plug all the wires from the computer case into the mConnectors and then plug the
mConnectors into the mainboard.
r
ake
Spe zer
Buz
8
.+
6 .+
.-
4 -
2
.
7 .Po sp n
.N w e d
5 u rou
JFP2
o e n
3 .G
P rL d
. S
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1
D D
P
o
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BATT
+
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r
S
P
1
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o 8.
r
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in
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D
6
.+
4 +
.-
2
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9 .+
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7 .-
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5 .-
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JFP1
3 .+
rv e
e
1
d
s
H
t
D
S
D
w
it
L
ch
E
D
Important
• On the connectors coming from the case, pins marked by small triangles are positive
wires. Please use the diagrams above and the writing on the mConnectors to deter-
mine correct connector orientation and placement.
• The majority of the computer case’s front panel connectors will primarily be plugged
into JFP1.
1-24
MS-7756
JUSB4: USB 3.0 Expansion Connector

The USB 3.0 port is backwards compatible with USB 2.0 devices. It supports data
transfer rates up to 5Gbits/s (SuperSpeed).
Chapter 1
BATT
+
115V
2 .P S B3 nd X _C
0 o B _
1 8.U S ou _ X
.N w 3 R
9
1 7.U Gr B3 _T
o e _R X
1 6. S B3 nd -
P r X _
in
1 .U S u .0 +
1 4.U r B2 .0
5
1 3.G S B2
1 2.U S
_ DP
D
1 1.U
N
T
1
_ _
C D
_ P
D
N
1 .U SB un T _
.P S 3 d X C
2 .U ro 3_ TX
o B3 _R _C _D
3 .G SB 3_ d -
w _
e R X
4 .U B n 0
r X _
5 US rou 2. 0 +
6 G B 2. nd
.
7 U B u
_ DP
.
D
8 .U ro
. S
N
9 0.G
S
1
_ P
D
* The MB layout in this figure is for reference only. N
USB 3.0 Bracket (optional)
Important
• Note that the VCC and GND pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible
damage.
• To use a USB 3.0 device, you must connect the device to a USB 3.0 port through an
optional USB 3.0 compliant cable.
1-25
Getting Started
JUSB1~3: USB 2.0 Expansion Connectors

This connector is designed for connecting high-speed USB peripherals such as USB
HDDs, digital cameras, MP3 players, printers, modems, and many others.
115V
1 .G S B1
0 r B -
.N o 1
8 U
C un +
6 .U C
. S
4 C
2
d
.V
BATT
+
9 .G SB 0-
.N ro 0
7
o u +
5 .U CC
P nd
. U
in
3 .V
1
S
B
USB 2.0 Bracket (optional)
Important
Note that the VCC and GND pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible
damage.
JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector

This connector connects to the chassis intrusion switch cable. If the computer case is
opened, the chassis intrusion mechanism will be activated. The system will record this
intrusion and a warning message will flash on screen. To clear the warning, you must
enter the BIOS utility and clear the record.
2 .C
BATT
.G IN
+
ro T
u RU
n
d
1-26
MS-7756
JAUD1: Front Panel Audio Connector

This connector allows you to connect the front audio panel located on your computer
case. This connector is compliant with the Intel® Front Panel I/O Connectivity Design
Guide.
1 .N IC
0 o
Chapter 1
.H P D
8 M C nd
e in et
6 .N ou
a
.
d
4 r
P
h
2
o
.G
n
e
e
D
ct
e
io
te
n
ct
io
n
BATT
+
9 .S ea R
.H E d
7 .H IC L
e NS P
5 .M IC
a E h
d
3 .M
P _S ne
h E R
1
o N
n
e D
L
o
JTPM1: TPM Module Connector
This connector connects to a TPM (Trusted Platform Module, optional). Please refer to
the TPM security platform manual for more details and usages.
TPM module is optional

115V
1 2.G o Po IR we y p
4
1 .N V ial o b
.G ro Pi we Q r ow
1 .5 er P nd
ro un n r
0
u d
8 .S 3V ta
n
BATT
d
6 .3. S
+
4 .3V
2
1 1.L C a dd et
e
3 P a d re
r
1 .LP C a es k
.L C d d s
P
9 P C R loc
C ad dre ss &
7 .LP C C
F d s & d
.
ra re s
L
5 .LP C
m s & da ta
3 .LP
e s & da ta pi
1
re s
d ta pin 0
a p 1
ta in
p 2
in
a
3
n
1-27
Getting Started
JCOM1: Serial Port Connector

This connector is a 16550A high speed communication port that sends/receives 16
bytes FIFOs. You can attach a serial device.
1 .C S
0 T R
.N S
8 D R
o
6 T
P
.
in
4 SI
.D N
2
.
BATT
+
9 . R r ou T
.R T n
7 .G U
I S d
5 O CD
3 .D
. S
1
JLPT1: Parallel Port Connector
This connector is used to connect an optional parallel port bracket. The parallel port
is a standard printer port that supports Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP) and Extended
Capabilities Parallel Port (ECP) mode.
2 4.G ro un d
6
2 2.G ro un d
.N ro un d
2 .G ro un d
o un d
P d
2 .G r o u n d
in
0
1 6 . G r o u n d IN
8
1 .G ro un L
1 2.G ro _ #
4
1 .G T IT
1 .L IN #
0
8 P R #
6 R
P
.
4 .AF
.E D
2 3.P U K# 7
S
5 E S
2
.S
2 1.B C ND 6
L
BATT
2 9.A R ND 5
+
C
#
1 .P R ND 4
T
1 5.P R ND 3
7
1 .P
Y
1 1.P RN D 1
3 R D 2
1 .P N D
9 .P R N D0
7 .PR N B#
5 .PR ST
3 .R
1
1-28
MS-7756
JDLED3: Voice Genie Connector (optional)

This connector is used to link to the voice control module (optional). Please refer to its
user guide for more details and usages.
1 2.C o tr
4
1 .N on 3 l pin
.C o Pi ol
1 .C CC tro l
o ntr n pi
0
n o
tr l
8 .V n ro
o p
Chapter 1
6 Co n
l i
p n
4 .Co
in
.
2
n
t
p
in
1 .R o ro l in
3
BATT
+
11 .G on tro l p
.G e n l in
ro se d in
9
u rve
7 .Co n B
n d
r
.
d
C
5 C S
u
3 .5V
.
t
1
n
o
p
in
p
tr
o
p
JTURBO1: MultiConnect Panel Connector (optional)
This connector is used to connect an optional front panel for controling the OC Genie and
some additional functions. Please refer to its user guide for more details and usages.
2 .TU
.C
1
o RB
n O
tr
o
lP
in
BATT
+
4 .TU
.N
3
o RB
P O
in
1-29
Getting Started
Jumper
JBAT1: Clear CMOS Jumper
There is CMOS RAM onboard that is external powered from a battery located on the
mainboard to save system configuration data. With the CMOS RAM, the system can
automatically boot into the operating system (OS) every time it is turned on. If you want
to clear the system configuration, set the jumpers to clear the CMOS RAM.
1 1
Keep Data Clear Data

BATT
+
Important
You can clear the CMOS RAM by shorting this jumper while the system is off. Afterwards,
open the jumper . Do not clear the CMOS RAM while the system is on because it will
damage the mainboard.
1-30
Chapter 2
BIOS Setup
CLICK BIOS II is a revolutionary UEFI interface that
allows you to setup and configure your system for
optimum use. Using your mouse and keyboard, users can
change BIOS settings, monitor CPU temperature, select
the boot device priority and view system information
such as the CPU name, DRAM capacity, the OS version
and the BIOS version. Users can import and export
parameter data for backup or for sharing with friends. By
connecting to the Internet within CLICK BIOS II, users
can browse webpages, check mail and use Live Update
iyour system.
BIOS Setup
Entering
Power on the computer and the system will start the Power On Self Test (POST) pro-
cess. When the message below appears on the screen, please <DEL> key to enter
CLICK BIOS II:
Press DEL key to enter Setup Menu, F11 to enter Boot Menu
If the message disappears before you respond and you still need to enter CLICK BIOS
II, restart the system by turning the computer OFF then back ON or pressing the RESET
button. You may also restart the system by simultaneously pressing <Ctrl>, <Alt>, and
<Delete> keys.
Important
The items under each BIOS category described in this chapter are under continuous
update for better system performance. Therefore, the description may be slightly differ-
ent from the latest BIOS and should be held for reference only.
Overview
After entering CLICK BIOS II, the following screen is displayed.
System
Temperature information
monitor
Boot menu
Mode
selection
Boot device
priority bar
BIOS menu
selection
BIOS menu
selection
Menu display
Important
The pictures in this guide are for reference only and may vary from the product you pur-
chased. Please refer to the actual screens of your system for detailed information.
▶ Temperature monitor
This block shows the temperature of the processor and the mainboard.
2-2
MS-7756
▶ System information
This block shows the time, date, CPU name, CPU frequency, DRAM frequency, DRAM
capacity and the BIOS version.
▶ BIOS menu selection
The following options are available:
■ SETTINGS - Use this menu to specify your settings for chipset features and
boot devices.
■ OC - This menu contains items of the frequency and voltage adjustments. In-
creasing the frequency can get better performance, however high frequency
and heat can cause instability, we do not recommend general users to over-
clock.
Chapter 2
■ ECO - This menu is related to energy-saving settings.
■ BROWSER - This feature is used to enter the MSI Winki web browser.
■ UTILITIES - This menu contains utilities for backup and update.
■ SECURITY - The security menu is used to keep unauthorized people from mak-
ing any changes to the settings. You can use these security features to protect
your system.
▶ Boot device priority bar
You can move the device icons to change the boot priority.
▶ Boot menu
This button is used to open a boot menu. Click the item to boot the system from the
device instantly.
▶ Mode selection
This feature allows you to load presets of energy saving or overclocking.
▶ Menu display
This area provides BIOS settings and information to be configured.
Boot device priority bar

This bar shows the priority of the boot devices. The lighted icons indicate that the de-
vices are available.
High priority Low priority
Click and draw the icon to left or right to specify the boot priority.
■ Boot device icon list

Hard disk Optical
USB Drive LAN
drive disk
USB hard USB USB optical UEFI
disk drive floppy drive
BEV Disable
2-3
BIOS Setup
Operation
CLICK BIOS II allows you to control BIOS settings with the mouse and the keyboard.
The following table lists and describes the hot keys and the mouse operations.
Hot key Mouse Description
<↑↓→← > Select Item
Move the cursor

<Enter> Select Icon/ Field
Click/ Double-
click the left
button
<Esc> Jump to the Exit menu or return to the previous from
a submenu
Click the right

button
<+> Increase the numeric value or make changes
<-> Decrease the numeric value or make changes
<F1> General Help
<F4> CPU Specifications
<F5> Enter Memory-Z
<F6> Load optimized defaults
<F10> Save Change and Reset
<F12> Save a screenshot to a FAT/FAT32 USB drive
Sub-Menu
If you find a point symbol to the left of certain fields,
that means a sub-menu can be launched for ad-
ditional options. You can use the arrow keys or
mouse to highlight the field and press <Enter> or
double-click the left mouse button to enter the sub-
menu. If you want to return to the previous menu, just press <Esc> or click the right
mouse button.
General Help
The General Help screen lists the appropriate keys to use for navigation. You can call
up this screen from any menu by simply pressing <F1>. Press <Esc> to exit the Help
screen.
2-4
MS-7756
SETTINGS
Chapter 2
System Status
▶ System Date
This allows you to set the system date that you want (usually the current date).
The format is <day> <month> <date> <year>.
day Day of the week, from Sun to Sat, determined by BIOS.
Read-only.
month The month from Jan. through Dec.
date The date from 1 to 31 can be keyed by numeric function keys.
year The year can be adjusted by users.
▶ System Time
This allows you to set the system time that you want (usually the current time). The time
format is <hour> <minute> <second>.
▶ SATA Port1~6
Shows devices connected to specific SATA ports.
Important
If your device is not displayed, turn off computer and re-check SATA cable and power
cable connections to the device.
▶ System Information
Shows detailed system information, including CPU type, BIOS version, and Memory
(read only).
2-5
BIOS Setup
Advanced
▶ PCI Subsystem Settings
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
▶ PCIE GEN3
This item is used to enable/ disable the PCIe generation 3 support.
▶ PCI Latency Timer
Controls how long each PCI device can hold the bus before another takes over.
When set to higher values, every PCI device can conduct transactions for a longer
time and thus improve the effective PCI bandwidth.
▶ ACPI Settings
▶ ACPI Standby State
Specifies the power saving mode for ACPI function
[S1] Sleep Mode. Hardware remains on.
[S3] Suspend to RAM. Turns off hardware. (Recommended)
▶ Power LED
Configures how the system uses power LEDs on the case to indicate sleep/
suspend state.
[Single] The power LED turns off during the sleep/suspend mode.
[Dual] The power LED changes its color to indicate the sleep/suspend
state.
[Blinking] The power LED blinks to indicate the sleep/suspend state.
▶ Integrated Peripherals
▶ Onboard Lan Controller
This item allows you to enable/ disable the onboard LAN controller.
▶ LAN Option ROM
This item is used to decide whether to invoke the Boot ROM of the onboard LAN.
▶ SATA Mode
This item is used to specify RAID/ IDE/ AHCI mode for SATA port.
Important
You cannot switch between AHCI and IDE if you already have your operating system
installed. If you have installed your OS using AHCI and you clear your BIOS/reset to
default settings, you will need to change this function back to AHCI to ensure proper
functionality.
▶ SATA1~6 Hot Plug
These items are used to enable/ disable the SATA ports hot plug support.
▶ HD Audio Controller
This item allows you to enable/ disable the HD audio controller.
2-6
MS-7756
▶ HPET
The HPET (High Precision Event Timers) is a component that is part of the chipset.
You can enable it, and will provide you with the means to get to it via the various
ACPI methods.
▶ Integrated Graphics Configuration
▶ Initiate Graphic Adapter
Choose which adapter you wish to make the primary option
[IGD] Integrated Graphics Display
[PEG] PCI-Express Graphics Device
Chapter 2
▶ Integrated Graphics Share Memory
The system shares memory to the onboard graphics. This setting controls the exact
memory size shared to the onboard graphics.
▶ DVMT Memory
Specify the size of DVMT memory to allocate for video memory.
▶ IGD Multi-Monitor
Enables both integrated and discrete graphics at the same time. When disabled, it
will default to Initiated Graphics Adapter selection.
▶ Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology
▶ Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology
This item is used to enable/ disable the Intel Rapid Start technology.
▶ USB Configuration
▶ USB Controller
This item allows you to enable/ disable the integrated USB 2.0 controller.
▶ Legacy USB Support
Enable or disable support for USB keyboards, mice and floppy drives. You will be
able to use these devices with operating systems that do not support USB.
▶ Super IO Configuration
▶ Serial(COM) Port 0 Configuration
▶ Serial (COM) Port0
This item allows you to enable/ disable the serial port.
▶ Serial (COM) Port0 Settings
Select an address and corresponding interrupt for the serial port.
▶ Parallel(LPT) Port Configuration
2-7
BIOS Setup
▶ Parallel(LPT) Port
This item allows you to enable/ disable the parallel port.
▶ Parallel(LPT) Port Settings
Select an address and corresponding interrupt for the parallel port.
▶ Device Mode
Select a device mode for the parallel port.
▶ Hardware Monitor
▶ CPU Smart Fan Target
Controls CPU fan speed automatically depending on the current temperature and
to keep it with a specific range. If the current CPU temperature reaches the target
value, the smart fan function will be activated.
▶ SYS Fan1/ 2 Control
These items allow users to select how percentage of speed for the SYSFAN1/ 2.
▶ Power Management Setup
▶ EuP 2013
Energy Using Products Lot 6 2013 (EUP) reduces power consumption when system
is off or in standby mode.
Note: When enabled, the system will not support RTC wake up event functions.
▶ Restore after AC Power Loss
This item specifies whether your system will reboot after a power failure or interrupt
occurs. Settings are:
[Power Off] Always leaves the computer in the power off state.
[Power On] Always leaves the computer in the power on state.
[Last State] Restore the system to the status before power failure or interrupt
occurred.
▶ Wake Up Event Setup
▶ Wake Up Event By
Setting to [BIOS] activates the following fields, and use the following fields to set the
wake up events. Setting to [OS], the wake up events will be defined by OS.
▶ Resume By RTC Alarm
The field is used to enable or disable the feature of booting up the system on a
scheduled time/date.
▶ Date/ HH:MM:SS
If Resume By RTC Alarm is set to [Enabled], the system will automatically resume
(boot up) on a specific date/hour/minute/second specified in these fields (using the
<+> and <-> to select the date & time settings).
2-8
MS-7756
▶ Resume By PCI-E Device

When set to [Enabled], the feature allows your system to be awakened from the
power saving modes through any event on PCIe device.
▶ Resume From S3 by USB Device
The item allows the activity of the USB device to wake up the system from S3 (Sus-
pend to RAM) sleep state.
▶ Resume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Mouse/ Keyboard
These items determine whether the system will be awakened from what power sav-
ing modes when input signal of the PS/2 mouse/ keyboard is detected.
Chapter 2
Boot
▶ Full Screen Logo Display
[Enabled] The OS boots straight to the GUI without showing the POST screen,
[Disabled] Shows the POST messages at boot.
== Boot Option Priorities==
▶ 1st~9th Boot
These items are used to prioritize the installed boot devices.
▶ USB KEY Drive BBS Priorities/ UEFI Boot Drive BBS Priorities
▶ 1st~8th Boot
These items are used to prioritize the installed USB key drives/ UEFI boot drives.
Save & Exit

▶ Discard Changes and Exit
This it is used to abandon all changes and exit setup.
▶ Save Changes and Reset
This item is used to save changes and reset the system.
▶ Save Changes
This item is used to save changes.
▶ Discard Changes
This item is used to abandon all changes.
▶ Restore Defaults
This item is used to load the optimized default values set by the BIOS vendor.
== Boot Override ==
The installed storage devices will appear on this menu, you can select one of them be
a boot device.
▶ Built-in EFI Shell
Use this item to enter the EFI Shell.
2-9
BIOS Setup
OC
Important
• Overclocking your PC manually is only recommended for advanced users.
• Overclocking is not guaranteed, and if done improperly, can void your warranty or
severely damage your hardware.
• If you are unfamiliar with overclocking, we advise you to use OC Genie for easy
overclocking.
▶ Current CPU/ DRAM Frequency

These items show the current clocks of CPU and Memory speed. Read-only.
▶ Adjust CPU Ratio
Controls the multiplier that is used to determine internal clock speed of the processor.
This feature can only be changed if the processor supports this function.
▶ Adjusted CPU Frequency
It shows the adjusted CPU frequency. Read-only.
▶ Adjust CPU Ratio in OS
Enable this item to allow CPU ratio changes in the OS by using MSI Control Center II.
▶ Internal PLL Overvoltage
This item is used to adjust the PLL voltage.
▶ EIST
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep technology allows you to set the performance level of the
microprocessor whether the computer is running on battery or AC power. This field only
appears with installed CPUs that support this technology.
2-10
MS-7756
▶ Intel Turbo Boost

Enables or disables Intel Turbo Boost which automatically boosts CPU performance
above rated specifications (when applications requests the highest performance state
of the processor).
▶ OC Genie Button Operation
This item allows you to enable/disable the OC Genie function.
▶ DRAM Frequency
This item allows you to adjust the DRAM frequency. Please note the overclocking
behavior is not guaranteed.
▶ Adjusted DRAM Frequency
Chapter 2
It shows the adjusted DRAM frequency. Read-only.
▶ DRAM Timing Mode
Select whether DRAM timing is controlled by the SPD (Serial Presence Detect) EE-
PROM on the DRAM module. Setting to [Auto] enables DRAM timings and the following
“Advanced DRAM Configuration” sub-menu to be determined by BIOS based on the
configurations on the SPD. Selecting [Link] or [Unlink] allows users to configure the
DRAM timings for each channel and the following related “Advanced DRAM Configura-
tion” sub-menu manually.
▶ Advanced DRAM Configuration
▶ Command Rate
This setting controls the DRAM command rate.
▶ tCL
Controls CAS latency which determines the timing delay (in clock cycles) of starting
a read command after receiving data.
▶ tRCD
Determines the timing of the transition from RAS (row address strobe) to CAS (col-
umn address strobe). The less clock cycles, the faster the DRAM performance.
▶ tRP
Controls number of cycles for RAS (row address strobe) to be allowed to pre-charge.
If insufficient time is allowed for RAS to accumulate before DRAM refresh, the DRAM
may fail to retain data. This item applies only when synchronous DRAM is installed
in the system.
▶ tRAS
Determines the time RAS (row address strobe) takes to read from and write to mem-
ory cell.
▶ tRFC
This setting determines the time RFC takes to read from and write to a memory
cell.
▶ tWR
Determines minimum time interval between end of write data burst and the start of a
pre-charge command. Allows sense amplifiers to restore data to cell.
2-11
BIOS Setup
▶ tWTR
Determines minimum time interval between the end of write data burst and the start
of a column-read command; allows I/O gating to overdrive sense amplifies before
read command starts.
▶ tRRD
Specifies the active-to-active delay of different banks.
▶ tRTP
Time interval between a read and a precharge command.
▶ tFAW
This item is used to set the tFAW (four activate window delay) timing.
▶ tWCL
This item is used to set the tWCL (Write CAS Latency) timing.
▶ Advanced Channel 1/ 2 Timing Configuration
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. And you can set the advanced memory timing
for each channel.
▶ GT OverClocking
This item allows you to enable/ disable the overclocking of integrated graphics.
▶ GT Ratio
This setting controls the ratio of integrated graphics frequency to enable the integrated
graphics to run at different frequency combinations.
▶ Adjusted GT Frequency
It shows the adjusted integrated graphics frequency. Read-only.
▶ Spread Spectrum
This function reduces the EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) generated by modulating
clock generator pulses.
Important
• If you do not have any EMI problem, leave the setting at [Disabled] for optimal system
stability and performance. But if you are plagued by EMI, select the value of Spread
Spectrum for EMI reduction.
• The greater the Spread Spectrum value is, the greater the EMI is reduced, and the
system will become less stable. For the most suitable Spread Spectrum value, please
consult your local EMI regulation.
• Remember to disable Spread Spectrum if you are overclocking because even a slight
jitter can introduce a temporary boost in clock speed which may just cause your
overclocked processor to lock up.
▶ CPU Core Voltage/ DRAM Voltage.
These items are used to adjust the voltages.
▶ Current CPU Core Voltage/ Current DRAM Voltage
These items show current voltages. Read-only.
2-12
MS-7756
▶ Overclocking Profiles
▶ Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
▶ Set Name for Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
Give a name by typing in this item.
▶ Save Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
Save the current overclocking settings to ROM for selected profile.
▶ Load/ Clear Overclocking Profile 1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6
Chapter 2
Load/ Clear the stored profile settings from ROM.
▶ Overclocking Profile Save to USB
Save the current overclocking settings to USB flash disk.
▶ Overclocking Profile Load from USB
Load the stored settings from USB flash disk.
▶ CPU Specifications
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu highlights all the key features of
your CPU. The information will vary by model and is read-only. You can also access this
information at any time by pressing [F4]. Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
▶ CPU Technology Support
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu shows the installed CPU tech-
nologies. Read only.
▶ MEMORY-Z
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu highlights all the settings and
timings of your DIMMs. This information will vary by model and is read-only. You can
also access this information at any time by pressing [F5]. Press <Enter> to enter the
sub-menu.
▶ DIMM1~4 Memory SPD
Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu displays the informations of
installed memory.
▶ CPU Features
▶ Active Processor Cores
This item allows you to select the number of active processor cores.
▶ Limit CPUID Maximum
It is designed to limit the listed speed of the processor to older operating systems.
▶ Execute Disable Bit
Can prevent certain classes of malicious “buffer overflow” attacks where worms can
try to execute code to damage your system. It is recommended you keep this en-
abled always.
2-13
BIOS Setup
▶ Intel Virtualization Tech

Enhances virtualization and allows the system to act as multiple virtual systems. See
Intel’s official website for more information.
▶ Intel VT-D Tech
This item is used to enable/disable the Intel VT-D technology. For further information
please refer to Intel’s official website.
▶ Power Technology
This item allows you to select the Intel Dynamic Power technology mode.
▶ C1E Support
Enable system to reduce CPU power consumption while idle. Not all processors
support Enhanced Halt state (C1E).
▶ OverSpeed Protection
Monitors current CPU draw as well as power consumption; if it exceeds a certain
level, the processor automatically reduces its clock speed. For overclocking, it is
recommended this feature is disabled.
▶ Intel C-State
C-state is a power management state that detects when the system is idle and
lowers power consumption accordingly.
▶ Package C State limit
This field allows you to select a C-state mode.
▶ Long duration power limit (W)
This field allows you to adjust the TDP power limit for the long duration.
▶ Long duration maintained (s)
This field allows you to adjust the maintaining time for long duration power limit.
▶ Short duration power limit (W)
This field allows you to adjust the TDP power limit for the short duration.
▶ Primary/ Secondary Plane Current value
These fields allow you to adjust over current value of CPU (primary plane)/ iGPU
(secondary plane) for turbo ratio.
▶ Primary/ Secondary plane turbo power limit (W)
These fields allow you to adjust the turbo power limit of CPU (primary plane)/ iGPU
(secondary plane) for turbo boost.
2-14
MS-7756
ECO
Chapter 2
Important
Once you click the “ECO” button in the pre-set area, some items in ECO menu will be
fixed and un-adjustable.
▶ EuP 2013
Energy Using Products Lot 6 2013 (EUP) reduces power consumption when system is
off or in standby mode.
Note: When enabled, the system will not support RTC wake up event functions.
▶ C1E Support
To enable this item to reduce the CPU power consumption while idle. Not all processors
support Enhanced Halt state (C1E).
▶ Intel C-State
C-state is a power management state that detects when the system is idle and lowers
power consumption accordingly.
▶ Package C State limit
This field allows you to select a C-state mode.
▶ CPU Core Voltage/ CPU I/O Voltage/ GPU Voltage/ DRAM Voltage/ 3.3V/ 5V/ 12V
These items show the voltages. Read only.
2-15
BIOS Setup
BROWSER
Please install the MSI "Winki" application first in the Windows operating system with the
MSI Driver Disc before using the browser. Then you can click the BROWSER to access
the Internet, e-mail and instant messaging.
Installing Winki
To install Winki, follow the steps below:
1. Power on your computer and enter Windows operating system.

2. Insert MSI Driver Disc into the optical drive. The setup screen will automatically
appear.
3. Click Driver tab.
4. Click OTHERS button.
5. Select Winki to start installing.
6. When finished, restart your computer.
2-16
MS-7756
UTILITIES
Chapter 2
▶ HDD Backup
Hard disk storage backups and restoring is one of the most common and important
tasks. Use this utility to create an image of your HDD partitions and re-load them when
necessary.
Important
The HDD Backup can’t back up (/restore) image to (/from) a partition where itself was
installed, so it’s strongly recommended to divide HDD into 2 partitions at least (1st for
OS; 2nd for data).
For HDD with single partition only, the requirements for HDD Backup are:
1. An additional partition from another HDD (ex. USB HDD) for HDD Backup to back up
(/restore) image to (/from) it.
2. Executing Winki stored in USB flash drive/ MSI Driver Disc by pressing <F11> to
choose boot device during POST.
▶ Live Update
This tool can detect and update your BIOS online so that you won’t need to spend time
searching manually.
Important
HDD Backup and Live Update request Winki, please install the "Winki" software appli-
cation from MSI Driver Disc in Windows first. And then you can access these two utilities
by clicking their respective buttons.
2-17
BIOS Setup
▶ M-Flash
▶ BIOS Boot Function
This allows you to enable/ disable the system to boot from the BIOS file inside USB
drive (FAT/ 32 format only).
▶ Select UEFI file to boot from
When the BIOS Boot function as sets to [Enabled], this item is selectable. This item
allows to select particular BIOS file from the USB/ Storage (FAT/ 32 format only)
drive. And the system will boot from selected BIOS file.
▶ Save current UEFI rom to file
Please setup a specific folder in specific USB/ Storage drive to save BIOS file from
BIOS ROM chip data. Note: it only supports FAT/ 32 file system drive.
▶ Select UEFI file to flash
This item allows you to select a particular BIOS file from the USB/ Storage (FAT/ 32
format only) drive for updating BIOS.
2-18
MS-7756
Updating the BIOS with Live Update

This section tells you how to update the BIOS by using the Live Update utility before
entering Operating System. Live Update will update the BIOS automatically when
connecting to the Internet. To update the BIOS with the Live Update utility:
1. Click Live Update button on the BIOS UTILITIES menu. (The Winki must be
installed).
Chapter 2
2. Setup the connection by click the setting button if necessary.
3. Click the next button .
4. Live Update will automatically detect the version of BIOS and download the ap-
propriate file.
5. Click the confirm button to update the BIOS.
Important
Do not unplug or shut off your system during BIOS Flash. Incorrect BIOS flashing can
cause the motherboard to not POST. Please ensure you have the correct version and
model of your motherboard BIOS when updating.
2-19
BIOS Setup
SECURITY
▶ Administrator Password
Set the administrative password that will be required to enter the BIOS.
▶ User Password
Set the user password that will be required to enter the operating system.
Important
When selecting the Administrative / User Password items, a password box will appear
on the screen. Type the password then press <Enter>. The password typed now will re-
place any previous set password from CMOS memory. You will be prompted to confirm
the password. You may also press <Esc> to abort the selection.
To clear a set password, press <Enter> when you are prompted to enter a new pass-
word. A message will confirm the password is being disabled. Once the password is
disabled, you can enter the setup and OS without authorization.
▶ U-Key
Enable or disable USB driver device as key. This requires the USB device to be plugged
in for access to the computer..
▶ Make U-Key at
When the “U-Key” as sets to [Enabled], this item is selectable. This item allows you to
specify the USB drive.
▶ Chassis Intrusion Configuration
▶ Chassis Intrusion
Enables or disables the feature of recording the chassis intrusion status and issuing
a warning message if opened. To clear the warning logs, set the field to [Reset]. The
setting of the field will return to [Enabled] later.
2-20
Appendix A
Realtek Audio
The Realtek audio provides 10-channel DAC that simul-
taneously supports 7.1 sound playback and 2 channels
of independent stereo sound output (multiple streaming)
through the Front-Out-Left and Front-Out-Right chan-
nels.
Realtek Audio
Installing the Realtek HD Audio Driver

You need to install the HD audio driver for Realtek audio codec to function properly
before you can get access to 2-, 4-, 6-, 8- channel or 7.1+2 channel audio operations.
Follow the procedures described below to install the drivers for different operating sys-
tems.
Installation for Windows®
For Windows® XP, you must install Windows® XP Service Pack3 or later before installing
the driver.
The following illustrations are based on Windows® 7 environment and could look slightly
different if you install the drivers in different operating systems.
1. Insert the application DVD into the DVD-ROM drive. The setup screen will automati-
cally appear.
2. Click Driver tab.
3. Click AUDIO button.
Click here
4. Select Realtek HD Audio Drivers to start installing the drivers.

5. Click Next to install the Realtek High Definition Audio Driver.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to install drivers.
7. Click Finish to restart the system.
Important
The HD Audio Configuration software utility is under continuous update to enhance au-
dio applications. Hence, the program screens shown here in this section may be slightly
different from the latest software utility and shall be held for reference only.
A-2
MS-7756
Software Configuration
After installing the audio driver, the “Realtek HD Audio Manager” icon will appear at the
notification area (lower right of the screen). You may double click the icon and the GUI
will pop up accordingly.
double click the icon
It is also available to enable the audio driver by clicking the Realtek HD Audio Manager
Appendix A
from the Control Panel.
Software panel overview

The following figure describes the function of the Realtek HD Audio Manager panel.
Device Selection Application Enhancement
Volume Adjustment Jack status panel
A-3
Realtek Audio
■ Device Selection
Here you can select a audio output source to change the related options. The “check”
sign (in orange) indicates the devices as default.
■ Volume Adjustment
You can control the volume or balance the right/left side of the speakers that you
plugged in front or rear panel by adjust the bar.
■ Application Enhancement
The array of options will provide you a complete guidance of anticipated sound effect for
both output and input device.
■ Jack status panel
This panel depicts all render and capture devices currently connected with your com-
puter.
Auto popup dialog

When you plug into the device at the jack, a dialogue window will pop up asking you
which device is current connected.
As you know, each jack corresponds to its default setting, you can refer to the next sec-
tion “Hardware Default Setting”.
A-4
MS-7756
Hardware Default Setting

The following diagrams are audio back panel default setting.
■ Backpanel audio jacks to 2-channel speakers diagram
Fro
nt
Appendix A
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nt
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r
A-5
Realtek Audio
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A-6
Appendix B
Intel RAID
This appendix will assist users in configuring and en-
abling RAID functionality and accelerating system on
platforms
Intel RAID
Introduction
The mainboard comes with the Intel RAID controller that allows you to configure SATA
hard drives as RAID sets.
SATA hard drives deliver blistering transfer speeds up to 6 Gb/s. Serial ATA uses long,
thin cables, making it easier to connect your drive and improving the airflow inside your
PC. The most outstanding features are:
1. Supports 3 Gb/s or 6 Gb/s transfers with CRC error checking.
2. Supports Hot-plug-n-play feature.
3. Data handling optimizations including tagged command queuing, elevator seek and
packet chain command.
Intel® RAID controller offers RAID level 0 (Striping), RAID level 1 (Mirroring and Duplex-
ing), RAID level 5 (Block Interleaved Distributed Parity), RAID level 10 (A Stripe of Mir-
rors) , Intel® Rapid Storage Technology.
RAID 0 breaks the data into blocks which are written to separate hard drives. Spread-
ing the hard drive I/O load across independent channels greatly improves I/O perfor-
mance.
RAID 1 provides data redundancy by mirroring data between the hard drives and pro-
vides enhanced read performance.
RAID 5 Provides data striping at the byte level and also stripe error correction informa-
tion. This results in excellent performance and good fault tolerance. Level 5 is one of the
most popular implementations of RAID.
RAID 10 Not one of the original RAID levels, multiple RAID 1 mirrors are created, and a
RAID 0 stripe is created over these.
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology is the advanced ability for two RAID volumes to share
the combined space of two hard drives being used in unison.
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology utilizes RAID 1 functionality to copy data from a des-
ignated Master drive to a designated Recovery drive. The size of the Master drive must
be less than or equal to the size of the Recovery drive. When a Recovery volume is
created, complete capacity of the Master drive will be used as the Master volume. Only
one Recovery Volume can exist on a system. There are 2 methods of updating the
data on the Master to the Recovery drive. They are Continuous Update Policy and On
Request Update Policy.
Important
The least number of hard drives for RAID 0, RAID 1, Recovery or Matrix mode is 2. The
least number of hard drives for RAID 10 mode is 4. And the least number of hard drives
for RAID 5 mode is 3.
All the information/ volumes/ pictures listed in your system might differ from the illustra-
tions in this appendix.
B-2
MS-7756
Using Intel Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM

The Intel Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM should be integrated with the sys-
tem BIOS on all mainboards with a supported Intel chipset. The Intel Rapid Storage
Technology Option ROM is the Intel RAID implementation and provides BIOS and DOS
disk services. Please use <Ctrl> + keys to enter the “Intel® RAID for Serial ATA”
status screen, which should appear early in system boot-up, during the POST (Power-
On Self Test). Also, you need to enable the RAID function in BIOS to create, delete and
reset RAID volumes.
Creating, Deleting and Resetting RAID Volumes:

The Serial ATA RAID volume may be configured using the RAID Configuration utility
stored within the Intel RAID Option ROM. During the Power-On Self Test (POST), the
following message will appear for a few seconds.
Important
The “Device Model”, “Serial #” and “Size” in the following example might be different
from your system.
Appendix B
RAID Volumes
None defined.
Physical Disks:
Port Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
1 XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB Non-RAID Disk
2 XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB Non-RAID Disk
Press <CTRL-I> to enter Configuration Utility..
After the above message shows, press <Ctrl> and keys simultaneously to enter the
Intel Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM.
Important
The following procedure is only available with a newly-built system or if you are reinstall-
ing your OS. It should not be used to migrate an existing system to RAID.
B-3
Intel RAID
After pressing the <Ctrl> and keys simultaneously, the following window will ap-
pear:
[ [ MAIN
MAIN MENU ] ]
1. Create RAID Volume 4. Recovery Volume Options
2. Delete RAID Volume 5. Acceleration Options
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID 6. Exit
[ DISK / VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
None defined.
Physical Devices :
Port Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status (Vol ID)
1 XXXX-XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB Non-RAID Disk
[ ↑↓] - Select [ESC] - Exit [ENTER] - Select Menu
■ Create RAID Volume

1. Select option 1 “Create RAID Volume” and press <Enter> key. The following screen
appears. Then in the Name field, specify a RAID Volume name and then press the
<TAB> or <Enter> key to go to the next field.
2. Use the arrow keys to select the RAID level best suited to your usage model in
RAID Level.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]

Name : Volume0
RAID Level : RAID1(Mirror)
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : N/A
Capacity : XXX.X GB
Sync : N/A
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
RAID 1 : Mirrors data (redundancy) .
[ ↑↓] - Change [TAB] - Next [ESC] - Previous Menu [ENTER] - Select
B-4
MS-7756
3. In the Disk field, press <Enter> key and use <Space> key to select the disks you
want to create for the RAID volume, then click <Enter> key to finish selection. This
field will become available according to the selected RAID level.
4. Then select the strip size for the RAID array by using the “upper arrow”
or “down arrow” keys to scroll through the available values, and pressing
the <Enter> key to select and advance to the next field. The available val-
ues range from 4KB to 128 KB in power of 2 increments. The strip size should
be chosen based on the planned drive usage. Here are some typical values:
RAID0 -128KB / RAID10 - 64KB / RAID5 - 64KB. This field will become available
according to the selected RAID level.
5. Then select the capacity of the volume in the Capacity field. The default value is the
maximum volume capacity of the selected disks.

Name : Volume0
Disks : Select Disks
Strip Size : N/A
Capacity : XXX.X GB
Sync : N/A
Appendix B
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
The default value indicates the maximum capacity using the selected
disks. Entering a lower capacity allows you to create a second
volume on these disks.
Important
Since you want to create two volumes, this default size (maximum) needs to be re-
duced. Type in a new size for the first volume. As an example: if you want the first
volume to span the first half of the two disks, re-type the size to be half of what is shown
by default. The second volume, when created, will automatically span the remainder of
two hard drives.
B-5
Intel RAID
6. Go to the Create Volume field and press <Enter>, the following screen appears for
you to confirm if you are sure to create the RAID volume. Press <Y> to continue.

Name : Volume0
Disks :Select Disks
Strip Size :N/A
Capacity : XXX.X GB
Sync : N/A
Create Volume
WARNING : ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.
Are you sure you want[ toHELP
create] this volume? (Y / N) :
Press ENTER to create the specified volume.
7. Then the following screen appears to indicate that the creation is finished.
[ [ MAIN
MAIN MENU ] ]
2. Delete RAID Volume 5. Acceleration Options
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID 6. Exit
[ DISK / VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes :
ID Name Level Strip Size Status Bootable
0 Volume0 RAID1(Mirror) N/A XXX.XGB Normal Yes
Physical Devices :
1 XXXX-XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB Member Disk(0)
2 XXXX-XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB Member Disk(0)
B-6
MS-7756
■ Delete RAID Volume

Here you can delete the RAID volume, but please be noted that all data on RAID
drives will be lost.
Important
If your system currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume in the Intel RAID
Option ROM, your system will become un-bootable.
Select option 2 Delete RAID Volume from the main menu screen and press <Enter>
key to select a RAID volume for deletion. Then press <Delete> key to delete the
selected RAID volume. The following screen appears.
[ DELETE VOLUME MENU ]

Name Level Drives Capacity Status Bootable
Volume0 RAID1(Mirror) 2 XXX.XGB Normal Yes
[ DELETE VOLUME VERIFICATION ]
Appendix B
ALL DATA IN THE VOLUME WILL BE LOST!
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
HELP “Volume0”?
Are you sure you want to[ delete ] (Y / N) :
Deleting a volume will reset the disks to non-RAID.
WARNING : ALL DISK DATA WILL BE DELETED.

(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
[ ↑↓] - Select [ESC] - Previous Menu [DEL] - Delete Volume
Press <Y> key to accept the volume deletion.
B-7
Intel RAID
■ Reset Disks to Non-RAID

Select option 3 Reset Disks to Non-RAID and press <Enter> to delete the RAID
volume and remove any RAID structures from the drives. The following screen
appears:
[ MAIN MENU ]
2. Delete RAID Volume [ RESET RAID DATA 4. ] Recovery Volume Options
Resetting RAID disk will 5. remove
Exit its RAID structures
and revert [ it DISK
to a / non-RAID
VOLUME INFORMATION
disk. ]
RAID VolumesWARNING
: : Resetting a disk causes all data on the disk to be lost.
None defined. (This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
PortDevices
Physical Drive : Model Serial # Size Status
1
Port Device XXXX-XXXXXXXX
Model
Serial # XXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB Member Disk
Size Type/Status (Vol ID)
1 2 XXXX-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXX-XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB
XXX.XGB MemberDisk
Non-RAID Disk
Select the disks that should be reset.
[ ↑↓] - Previous/ Next [SPACE] - Selects [ENTER] - Selection Complete
Use the <Space> key to select the disks and press <Enter> key. A confirmation sen-
tence will appear below, and then press <Y> key to accept the selection.
Important
• You will lose all data on the RAID drives and any internal RAID structures when you
perform this operation.
• Possible reasons to “Reset Disks to Non-RAID” could include issues such as incom-
patible RAID configurations or a failed volume or failed disk.
B-8
MS-7756
■ Recovery Volume Options

Select option 4 Recovery Volume Options and press <Enter> to change recovery
volume mode. The following screen appears:
[ RECOVERY VOLUME OPTIONS ]

1. Enable Only Recovery Disk
2. Enable Only Master Disk
[ HELP ]
Enable Only Recovery Disk - enables recovery disk if available and

disables master disk.
Enable Only Master Disk - enables master disk if available and
disables recovery disk.
Actions will result in change from Continuous Update mode to On-Request.
[ ↑↓] - select [ESC] - Previous Menu [ENTER] - Select
Appendix B
Recovery mode will change from Continuous Update to On-Request after you en-
able “Only Recovery Disk” or “Only Master Disk”.
B-9
Intel RAID
Installing Driver
■ New Windows 7/ Windows XP Installation
The following details the installation of the drivers while installing operating system.
1. When you start installing Windows XP, you may encounter a message stating,
“Setup could not determine the type of one or more mass storage devices installed
in your system”. If this is the case, then you are already in the right place and are
ready to supply the driver. If this is not the case, then press F6 when prompted at
the beginning of Windows setup.
2. Press the “S” key to select “Specify Additional Device”.
3. You should be prompted to insert a floppy disk containing the Intel® RAID driver
into the A: drive.
Note: For Windows XP, you can use the USB floppy drive only.
For Windows 7 you can use CD/ DVD/ USB drive.
Important
Please follow the instruction below to make an “Intel® RAID Driver” for yourself.
• Insert the MSI DVD into the DVD-ROM drive.
• Click the “Browse CD” on the Setup screen.
• Copy all the contents in \\Storage\Intel\PCH\f6flpy-x86 or f6flpy-x64 to a formatted
floppy diskette.
• The driver diskette for Intel® RAID Controller is done.
4. For Windows 7:
During the Operating system installation, after selecting the location to install
Windows 7 click on “Load Driver” button to install a third party SCSI or RAID
driver.
5. When prompted, insert the floppy disk or media (CD/DVD or USB) you created in
step 3 and press Enter.
6. You should be shown a list of available SCSI Adapters.
7. Select the appropriate Intel RAID controller and press ENTER.
8. The next screen should confirm that you have selected the Intel® RAID controller.
Press ENTER again to continue.
9. You have successfully installed the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology driver, and
Windows setup should continue.
10. Leave the disk in the floppy drive until the system reboots itself. Windows setup will
need to copy the files from the floppy again after the RAID volume is formatted, and
Windows setup starts copying files.
B-10
MS-7756
■ Existing Windows Driver Installation

1. Insert the MSI DVD into the DVD-ROM drive.
2. The DVD will auto-run and the setup screen will appear.
3. Under the Driver tab, click on Intel RAID Drivers.
4. The drivers will be automatically installed.
■ Confirming Windows Driver Installation

1. From Windows, open the Control Panel from My Computer followed by the System
icon.
2. Choose the Hardware tab, then click the Device Manager tab.
3. Click the “+” in front of the SCSI and RAID Controllers hardware type. The driver
Intel(R) SATA RAID Controller should appear.
Appendix B
B-11
Intel RAID
Degraded RAID Array

A RAID 1, RAID 5 or RAID 10 volume is reported as degraded when one of its hard drive
members fails or is temporarily disconnected, and data mirroring is lost. As a result, the
system can only utilize the remaining functional hard drive member. To re-establish
data mirroring and restore data redundancy, refer to the procedure below that corre-
sponds to the current situation.
Missing Hard Drive Member
1. Make sure the system is powered off.
2. Reconnect the hard drive.
3. Reboot the system to Windows; the rebuild will occur automatically.
Failed Hard Drive Member
1. Make sure the system is powered off.
2. Replace the failed hard drive with a new one that is of equal or greater capacity.
3. Reboot the system to Intel RAID Option ROM by press <Ctrl> and keys simul-
taneously during the Power-On Self Test (POST).
RAID Volumes
ID Name Level Strip Size Status Bootable
0 Volume0 RAID 1(Mirror) N/A XXX.XGB Degraded Yes
Physical Disks:
Port Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
1 XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB Member Disk (0)
2 XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB Member Disk (0)
Press <CTRL-I> to enter Configuration Utility..
4. Select the port of the destination disk for rebuilding, and then press ENTER.
[ MAIN MENU ]
[ DEGRADED VOLUME DETECTED ]
2. Delete RAID Volume 4. Recovery Volume Options
“Degraded” volume and disk available
5. for rebuilding detected. Selecting
Exit
a disk initiates a rebuild. Rebuild completes in
[ DISK / VOLUME INFORMATION the operating
] system.
RAID Volumes :
Select the port of the destination disk for rebuilding (ESC to exit):
None defined.
Port Drive Model Serial # Size
1 XXXX-XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XGB
Physical Devices :
[ ↑↓] - Previous/ Next [ENTER] - Select [ESC] - Exit
B-12
MS-7756
5. Exit Intel RAID Option ROM, and then reboot to Windows system.
6. When prompted to rebuild the RAID volume, click ‘Yes’.
7. The Intel Rapid Storage Technology application will be launched. Right-click the new
hard drive and select ‘Rebuild to this Disk’. The ‘Rebuild Wizard’ will be launched
which will guide you through the process of rebuilding to the new hard drive.
Appendix B
B-13
Intel RAID
System Acceleration (optional)

Intel® Rapid Storage Technology use a SSD as a cache. Which can store frequently
used data without having to use a slow virtual disk or depend on RAM. The SSD cache
with the advantages of high-speed read/write and non-volatile memory to accelerate the
system performance.
Important
Check your SSD manufacturer's website, upgrade firmware in order to support Intel®
Rapid Storage Technology.
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology can only work with RAID mode. Even though there is
only one hard drive, you must set the SATA Mode to RAID in BIOS. The OS must be
installed in the RAID ready disk in order to use the SSD caching.
Follow these steps to enable system acceleration. If Windows has been installed in
RAID mode, skip to the step 5.
1. Reboot and enter the BIOS steup.
2. Set the SATA Mode to RAID in BIOS.
3. Install Intel® RAID controller driver. Please refer to the section "Installing Driver".
4. Install Windows operating system.
5. Powered off.
6. Connect the SSD.
7. Reboot the system to Windows.
8. Insert the MSI DVD into the DVD-ROM drive.
Click here
9. Click the “STORAGE” on the Setup screen.
10. Click the "Intel RAID Driver" to install Intel® Rapid Storage Technology application.
B-14
MS-7756
11. Run Intel® Rapid Storage Technology application.

12. Click "Enable acceleration" under Accelerate.
Click here
13. Select the acceleration options.
Appendix B
14. Click OK and reboot the system.
The page refreshes and reports the new acceleration configuration in the Acceleration
View.
Important
You can click “More help on this page” or "More help" of the Intel® Rapid Storage
Technology application to view more information.
B-15
Intel RAID
RST Synchronization (optional)

If you are using Maximized mode as the Acceleration mode, the data on the hard disk
is not always synchronized with the data in the SSD cache. In some situations, you may
want to manually sync the disks for avoiding data loss.
Follow these steps to sync manually.

1. Reboot system, during the Power-On Self Test (POST) press, press <Ctrl> and 
keys simultaneously to enter the Intel Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM.
2. Select option 5 “Acceleration Options” and press <Enter> key. The following screen
appears.
[ ACCELERATION OPTIONS ]
Name Type Capacity Mode Status
DISK PORT 0 Non-RAID Disk 153.4GB Maximized No Sync
[ HELP ]
Press 's' to synchronize data from the cache device to

the Accelerated Disk/Volume.
Press 'r' to remove the Disk/Volume Acceleration.
WARNING: IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU [ERFORM A SYNCHRONIZATION

BEFORE REMOVING ACCELERATION.
[ ↑↓] - Select [ESC] - Previous Menu

3. Press <S> to synchronize data.
[ SYNCHRONIZATION VERIFICATION ]
5. MAY
SYNCHRONIZING THE DATA Exit TAKE SEVERAL MINUTES.
[ DISK
DO / VOLUME INFORMATION
NOT INTERRUPT ]
THE PROCESS!
Are you sure you want to synchronize data to

"DISK PORT 0"? (Y/N):
4. When prompted, press <Y> to confirm.
[ ACCELERATION OPTIONS ]
Name Type Capacity Mode Status
DISK PORT 0 Non-RAID Disk 153.4GB Maximized In Sync
5. Once synchronization is complete, the status will change to In Sync.
B-16

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Z77MA-G43/

FCC-B Radio Frequency Interference Statement

VOIR LA NOTICE D’INSTALLATION AVANT DE RACCORDER AU RESEAU.

CAUTION: There is a risk of explosion, if battery is incorrectly replaced.

Chemical Substances Information

WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Statement

USB 2.0 USB 3.0 eSATA Power eSATA

M-Connector USB3 to USB2 SATA Power CrossFire

Connectors Quick Guide

Connectors Reference Guide

Back Panel 1-8

CPU LGA1155 CPU Socket 1-10

DIMM1~4 DDR3 Memory Slots 1-16

JAUD1 Front Panel Audio Connector 1-27

JBAT1 Clear CMOS Jumper 1-30

JCI1 Chassis Intrusion Connector 1-26

JCOM1 Serial Port Connector 1-28

JDLED3 Voice Genie Connector 1-29

JFP1, JFP2 Front Panel Connectors 1-24

JLPT1 Parallel Port Connector 1-28

JPWR1 ATX 24-pin Power Connector 1-15

JPWR2 ATX 4-pin Power Connector 1-15

JTPM1 TPM Module Connector 1-27

JTURBO1 MultiConnect Panel Connector 1-29

JUSB1~3 USB 2.0 Expansion Connectors 1-26

JUSB4 USB 3.0 Expansion Connector 1-25

PCI_E1~E4 PCIe Expansion Slot 1-18

SATA1~6 SATA Connector 1-22

Back Panel Quick Guide

Mouse LAN VGA Port

Keyboard USB 2.0 Port USB 3.0 Port DVI-D Port

Left Yellow Off LAN link is not established.

On(Steady) LAN link is established.

On(flashing) The computer is communicating with another computer on the network.

Right Green Off 10 Mbits/sec data rate

On 100 Mbits/sec data rate

Orange On 1000 Mbits/sec data rate

▶ USB 2.0 Port

▶ USB 3.0 Port

CPU: LGA1155 CPU Socket

Introduction to LGA 1155 CPU

Yellow triangle is the

CPU & Cooler Installation

5. Inspect the CPU to check if it is 6. Evenly spread a thin layer of

11. Finally, attach the CPU fan cable

Mounting Screw Holes

JPWR2: ATX 4-pin Power Connector

48x2=96 pin 72x2=144 pin

Dual-Channel mode Population Rule

Installing Memory Modules

PCIe 3.0 x16 Slot

PCIe 2.0 x16 Slot

PCIe 2.0 x1 Slot

Video/ Graphics Cards

AMD CrossFire™ (Multi-GPU) Technology

CrossFireTM Video Link cable

* The MB layout in this figure is for reference only.

CPUFAN,SYSFAN1~2: Fan Power Connectors

JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors