User Guide

EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTWMotherboard

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Table of Contents

Before You Begin… .......................................................................................................................... ix
Parts NOT in the Kit ..................................................................................................................... ix
Intentions of the Kit ....................................................................................................................... ix
EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW Motherboard ......................................................................................... 1
Motherboard Specifications ........................................................................................................... 1
Unpacking and Parts Descriptions .................................................................................................... 3
Unpacking ..................................................................................................................................... 3
Equipment ..................................................................................................................................... 3
EVGA nForce 780i SLI Motherboard ............................................................................................. 4
Hardware Installation ......................................................................................................................... 7
Safety Instructions ......................................................................................................................... 7
Preparing the Motherboard ............................................................................................................ 7
Installing the CPU ..................................................................................................................... 8
Installing the CPU Fan .............................................................................................................. 8
Installing Memory DIMMs ......................................................................................................... 9
Installing the Motherboard ........................................................................................................... 10
Installing the I/O Shield ........................................................................................................... 10
Securing the Motherboard into the Chassis ............................................................................ 10
Connecting Cables and Setting Switches .................................................................................... 11Power Connections ................................................................................................................. 1124-pin ATX Power (PWR1) ................................................................................................ 12
8-pin ATX 12V Power (PWR2) ........................................................................................... 13
Connecting IDE Hard Disk Drives ........................................................................................... 14
Connecting Serial ATA Cables................................................................................................ 14
Connecting Internal Headers .................................................................................................. 15
Front Panel Header ............................................................................................................ 15IEEE 1394a ........................................................................................................................ 16
USB Headers ..................................................................................................................... 17

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Audio ...................................................................................................................................... 18
Fan Connections ..................................................................................................................... 19
COM1 ..................................................................................................................................... 20
FDD Connector ....................................................................................................................... 20
Expansion Slots ...................................................................................................................... 21
PCI Slots ............................................................................................................................ 21
PCI Express x1 Slot ........................................................................................................... 21
PCI Express x16 Slots........................................................................................................ 22
Clear CMOS Button ................................................................................................................ 23
Configuring the BIOS ....................................................................................................................... 25
Enter BIOS Setup ........................................................................................................................ 26
Main Menu .................................................................................................................................. 26
Standard CMOS Features Menu ................................................................................................. 28
Date and Time ........................................................................................................................ 29
IDE Channel and SATA Channel ............................................................................................ 30
Drive A .................................................................................................................................... 31
Halt On ................................................................................................................................... 32
Memory................................................................................................................................... 32
Advanced BIOS Features ............................................................................................................ 33
Removable Device Priority ...................................................................................................... 34
Hard Disk Boot Priority............................................................................................................ 34
Network Boot Priority .............................................................................................................. 34
CPU Internal Cache ................................................................................................................ 34
Quick Power On Self Test ....................................................................................................... 34
First/Second/Third Boot Device .............................................................................................. 35
Boot Other Device .................................................................................................................. 35
Boot Up NumLock Status ........................................................................................................ 35
Security Option ....................................................................................................................... 35
APIC Mode ............................................................................................................................. 35
MPS Version Control For OS .................................................................................................. 36
Full Screen LOGO Show ........................................................................................................ 36
Advanced Chipset Features ........................................................................................................ 37

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System BIOS Cacheable ........................................................................................................ 37
HPET Function ....................................................................................................................... 37
Integrated Peripherals Menu ....................................................................................................... 38
IDE Function Setup ................................................................................................................. 38
RAID Config ............................................................................................................................ 39
USB Config ............................................................................................................................. 40
MAC Config ............................................................................................................................ 40
IEEE1394 controller ................................................................................................................ 40
HD Audio ................................................................................................................................ 41
IDE HDD Block Mode ............................................................................................................. 41
Onboard FDC Controller ......................................................................................................... 41
Onboard Serial Port 1 ............................................................................................................. 41
Power Management Setup Menu ................................................................................................ 42
ACPI Function......................................................................................................................... 42
ACPI Suspend Type ............................................................................................................... 42
Soft-Off by PBNT .................................................................................................................... 43
WOL(PME#) From Soft-Off ..................................................................................................... 43
Power On by Alarm ................................................................................................................. 43
POWER ON Function ............................................................................................................. 44
PnP/PCI Configuration Menu ...................................................................................................... 45
Init Display First ...................................................................................................................... 45
Reset Configuration Data ........................................................................................................ 45
Resources Controlled By ........................................................................................................ 46
IRQ Resources ....................................................................................................................... 46
PCI/VGA Palette Snoop .......................................................................................................... 46
Maximum Payload Size .......................................................................................................... 47

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PC Health Status ............................................................................................................................. 47
Dynamic Fan Control ................................................................................................................... 48
Frequency/Voltage Control .......................................................................................................... 49
Dummy O.C. ............................................................................................................................... 49
System Clocks............................................................................................................................. 50
Frequency Settings ..................................................................................................................... 51
HT Multiplier ................................................................................................................................ 51
Spread Spectrum ........................................................................................................................ 52
FSB & Memory Config ..................................................................................................................... 53
SLI Ready Memory ..................................................................................................................... 54
FSB & Memory clock mode ......................................................................................................... 54
FSB (QDR), MHz......................................................................................................................... 54
MEM (DDR), MHz ....................................................................................................................... 54
Memory Timing Settings .............................................................................................................. 55
Optimal ....................................................................................................................................... 55
Expert ........................................................................................................................................ 56
CPU Feature .............................................................................................................................. 57
Limit CPUID MaxVal .................................................................................................................... 57
Intel SpedStep ............................................................................................................................ 57
PPM Mode ................................................................................................................................. 57
CPU Thermal Control ................................................................................................................. 58
C1E Enhanced Halt State ........................................................................................................... 58
Execute Disable Bit .................................................................................................................... 58
Virtualization Technology .......................................................................................................... 58
CPU Core 1-3 ............................................................................................................................. 58

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System Voltage .............................................................................................................................. 59
EVGA VDroop Control ............................................................................................................... 59
CPU Core ................................................................................................................................... 59
CPU FSB .................................................................................................................................... 59
Memory ..................................................................................................................................... 59
nForce SPP ................................................................................................................................ 59
nForce MCP ............................................................................................................................... 60
HT nForce SPP <-> MCP ........................................................................................................... 60
nForce MCP Auxiliary ................................................................................................................. 60
GTLVREF Lane 0-2 .................................................................................................................... 60
GTLVREF Lane 3 ....................................................................................................................... 60
NVMEM Memory Test ................................................................................................................ 60
Load Timing/Voltage Set ............................................................................................................ 61
Save Timing/Voltage Set ............................................................................................................ 61
Installing Drivers and Software........................................................................................................ 63
Driver Installation......................................................................................................................... 63
EVGA Enthusiast Glossary.......................................................................................................... 65
Appendix A. POST Codes for Tritium Platform ................................................................................ 67
NVMM POST Codes ................................................................................................................... 73

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List of Figures

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Figure 1.

EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW Motherboard Layout ....................................................... 5

Figure 2.

Chassis Back Panel Connectors ................................................................................. 6

Figure 3.

Power Supply Connectors ......................................................................................... 12

Figure 4.

PWR1 Motherboard Connector ................................................................................. 12

Figure 5.

BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Menu........................................................................ 27

Figure 6.

Standard CMOS Features Menu ............................................................................... 29

Figure 7.

Advanced BIOS Features Menu ................................................................................ 33

Figure 8.

Advanced Chipset Features ...................................................................................... 37

Figure 9.

Integrated Peripherals Menu ..................................................................................... 38

Figure 10.

Power Management Setup Menu .............................................................................. 42

Figure 11.

PnP/PCI Configuration Menu..................................................................................... 45

Figure 12.

PC Health Status ....................................................................................................... 47

Figure 13.

System Clocks Menu ................................................................................................. 50

Figure 14.

FSB & Memory Config Menu ..................................................................................... 53

Figure 15.

CPU Configuration Menu ........................................................................................... 57

Figure 16.

System Voltages Menu .............................................................................................. 59

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Before You Begin…
Parts NOT in the Kit
This kit contains all the hardware necessary to install and connect your new EVGA nForce®
780i SLI FTW motherboard. However, it does not contain the following items that must bepurchased separately to make the motherboard functional.
 Intel microprocessor:

Intel Core 2 Extreme, Intel Core 2 Quad, Intel Core 2 Duo Pentium EE, Pentium D,
Pentium Cooling fan for the microprocessor
 System memory support:
Supports dual channel DDR2 533/667/800/1066, and up to 1200 MHz SLI-Ready
Memory. Supports up to 8 GBs of DDR2 memory.
 Graphics Card
This motherboard supports 3-way SLI with three x16 PCI Express slots.
 Power Supply
The power supply requirement is dependent upon the power and the number of theGPUs you install. If you are going to SLI two graphics cards, you are going to require
more power. As a rule, for one GPU you need a minimum of a 350 W power supply. If
you have two GPUs in an SLI configuration, you will need a minimum of a 500 W power
supply. If you have three GPUs in an SLI configuration, you will need a minimum of a1000 W power supply. To calculate the power you are going to require for your specificconfiguration, go to www.slizone.com.
These instructions tell you how to install each of the parts listed so you can have afunctioning motherboard. As you go through the installation instructions, we are assuming
you have purchased the necessary parts.

Intentions of the Kit
This kit provides you with the motherboard and all connecting cables necessary to install themotherboard into a PC case. If you are building a PC, you will use most of the cables
provided in the kit. If however, you are replacing a motherboard, you will not need many of
the cables.
When replacing a motherboard in a PC case, you will need to reinstall an operating systemeven though the current drives have an operating system.

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EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTWMotherboard

Thank you for buying the EVGA NFORCE 780i SLI FTW Motherboard. Thismotherboard offers the tools and performance PC users’ demand. When combined with twoor three SLI-Ready NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards, you get innovative NVIDIA SLITechnology for enhanced system performance.

Motherboard Specifications
 Size

ATX form factor of 12 inch x 9.6 inch
 Microprocessor support
Intel Core 2 Extreme, Intel Core 2 Quad, Intel Core 2 Duo, Pentium EE, Pentium D,
Pentium Operating systems:
Supports Windows XP 32bit/64bit and Windows Vista 32bit/64bit
 Contains NVIDIA nForce 780i SLI MCP and SPP
 System Memory support
Supports dual channel JEDEC DDR2-800 and SLI-Ready memory up to 1200 MHz.
Supports up to 8 GBs of DDR2 memory.
 Ten USB 2.0 Ports
 Supports hot plug Ten USB 2.0 ports (six rear panel ports, four onboard USB headers) Supports wake-up from S1 and S3 mode Supports USB 2.0 protocol up to 480 Mbps transmission rate
 Onboard Serial ATA II
 300MBps data transfer rate Six Serial ATA II connectors
 NVIDIA Media Shield RAID with support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID
5, and JBOD
 Supports hot plug and NCQ (Native Command Queuing )

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 Onboard LAN Dual LAN interface built-in onboard
 Supports 10/100/1000 Mbit/sec Ethernet
 Onboard 1394
 Supports hot plug
 Two 1394a ports (one rear panel port, one onboard header) with a rate transmissionof 400 Mbps
 Onboard Audio Azalia High-Definition audio
 Supports 8-channel audio
 Supports S/PDIF output
 Supports Jack-Sensing function
 Triple PCI Express x16 Support
 2 x16 PCI Express 2.0
 1 x16 PCI Express 1.0
 Supports 4 GB/sec (8 GB/sec concurrent) bandwidth Low power consumption and power management features
 Green Function
 Supports ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface) Supports S0 (normal), S1 (power on suspend), S3 (suspend to RAM), S4 (Suspend to
disk - depends on OS), and S5 (soft - off) Expansion Slots
 Two PCI slots
 One PCI Express x1 slot
 Three PCI Express x16 Graphics slots

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Unpacking andParts Descriptions

Unpacking
The EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW motherboard comes with all the necessary cables foradding a motherboard to a new chassis. If you are replacing a motherboard, you may notneed many of these cables.
Be sure to inspect each piece of equipment shipped in the packing box. If anything is
missing or damaged, contact your reseller.
All parts shipped in this kit are RoHS-compliant (lead-free) parts.

Equipment
The following equipment is included in the EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW motherboard box.
(Accessories may vary between models, see product package)
EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW Motherboard
This PCI Express motherboard contains the NVIDIA
nForce 780i SLI SPP and MCP and is SLI-ready.

I/O Shield
Installs in the chassis to block radio frequency
transmissions, protect internet components from dust andforeign objects and aids in proper airflow within the
chassis.
Floppy Cable
Used to attach a floppy drive to the motherboard.

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2-Port SATA Power Cable (Qty Three)1394 Cable
Provides two additional 1394 ports to either the front orback panels of the chassis.

USB 2.0 4-Port Cable
Provides four additional USB ports to either the front orback panels of the chassis.

SATA Signal Cable (Qty Six)
Used to support the Serial ATA protocol and each one
connects a single drive to the motherboard
Comm2 Bracket Cable

IDE-ATA 133 HDD Cable

EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTWMotherboard
The EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW motherboard with the NVIDIA nForce 780i SLI SPP
and MCP processor is a PCI Express, SLI-ready motherboard. Figure 1 shows themotherboard and Figures 2 shows the back panel connectors.

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22

22
23

23

27

26

25
23

24

21

28

20

29

19
10
18
17

1

13
13

2

16

3
15

4

14
13

11

7

12

9

7
13

8

5

6

Figure 1.
EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW Motherboard Layout

1.

CPU Socket

11.

USB headers

21. SPDIF connector

2.

NVIDIA SPP with Active fan

12.

Motherboard battery

22. PCI slots

3.

CPU fan connector

13.

Fan connector

23.

PCI Express x16 slots (SLI)4.

DDR DIMM Slots 0 - 3

14.

Serial connector

24.

1394a connector

5.

24-pin ATX Power Connector

15.

Front panel connector

25.

PCI Express x1 slot

6.

IDE Connector

16.

CMOS Clear

26.

Back panel connectors (Figure 2)

7.

Serial-ATA (SATA) connectors

17. Power button

27.

Heat dissipater

8.

FDD connector

18. Reset Button

28.

8-pin ATX 12V power connector

9.

NVIDIA MCP (passive heat sink)

19.

29.

MCP/SPP fan connector

10. System Speaker

Azalia HD Audio Header

20. Front Panel Audio

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7
7
1

2

3

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

4

5

PS/2 Mouse Port
PS/2 Keyboard Port
1394a (Firewire) PortUSB 2.0 ports (SIX)
SPDIF output
Port
2-Channel
4-ChannelBlueLine-In
Line-InGreenLine-Out
Front Speaker Out
Pink
Mic InMic InOrangeBlack
Rear Speaker Out
Grey
7. Lan Port with LEDs to indicate status.
Yellow/Light Up/Blink = 10 Mbps/Link/Activity
Yellow and Green/Light Up/Blink = 100 Mbps/link/Activity
Green/Light Up/Blink = 1000 Mbps/Link/Activity

Figure 2.

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6

4

6-Channel/8-Channel
Line-In
Front Speaker Out
Mic InCenter/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Out

Chassis Back Panel Connectors

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Hardware Installation

This section will guide you through the installation of the motherboard. The topics covered in thissection are:
 Preparing the motherboard

 Installing the CPU Installing the CPU fan
 Installing the memory
 Installing the motherboard
 Connecting cables and setting switches

Safety Instructions
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury always follow basic safety
precautions.
Remember to remove power from your computer by disconnecting the AC main
source before removing or installing any equipment from/to the computer chassis.

Preparing the Motherboard
The motherboard shipped in the box does not contain a CPU or memory. You need topurchase these to complete this installation.

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Installing the CPU
Be very careful when handling the CPU. Make sure not to bend or break any pins on theback. Hold the processor only by the edges and do not touch the bottom of the processor.
Use the following procedure to install the CPU onto themotherboard.
1.

Unhook the socket lever by pushing down and away fromthe socket.

2.

Lift the load plate. There is a protective socket cover on
the load plate to protect the socket when there is no CPU
installed.

3.

Remove the protective socket cover from the load plate.

4.

Remove the processor from its protective cover, making
sure you hold it only by the edges.
It is a good idea to save the cover so that whenever you
remove the CPU, you have a safe place to store it.

5.

Align the notches in the processor with the notches on
the socket.

6.

Lower the processor straight down into the socketwith out tilting or sliding it into the socket

Make sure the CPU is fully seated and level in the socket.

7.

Close the load plate over the CPU and press down while you
close and engage the socket lever.

Installing the CPU Fan
There are many different fan types that can be used with thismotherboard. Follow the instructions that came with your fan
assembly. Be sure that the fan orientation is correct for yourchassis type and your fan assembly.

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Align notches with
notches on the CPUInstalling Memory DIMMs
Your new motherboard has four 1.8V 240-pin slots for DDR2 memory. These slots support
256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB DDR2 memory modules. They also support dual channel
DDR2 memory technology up to 10.7GB/s. There must be at least one memory bank
populated to ensure normal operation. Use the following the recommendations for installing
memory. (See Figure 1 on page 5 for the location of the memory slots.) One DIMM: Install into slot 0. You can install the DIMM into any slot however, slot 0

is preferred.
 Two DIMMs: Install into either slot 0 and 1 or 2 and 3. The idea is to not have theDIMMs in adjacent slots.
 Four DIMMS: Install into slots 0, 1, 2, and 3.
CPU side
DIMM Slot 0
DIMM Slot 2
DIMM Slot 1
DIMM Slot 3

Use the following procedure to install memory DIMMs. Note that there is only one gap near thecenter of the DIMM slot. This slot matches the slot on the memory DIMM to ensure the component
is installed properly.
1.

Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the module clips outward.

2.

Align the memory module to the DIMM slot and insert the module vertically into theDIMM slot. The plastic clips at both sides of the DIMM slot automatically lock the
DIMM into the connector.

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Installing the Motherboard
The sequence of installing the motherboard into the chassis depends on the chassis you areusing and if you are replacing an existing motherboard or working with an empty chassis.
Determine if it would be easier to make all the connections prior to this step or to secure themotherboard and then make all the connections. It is normally easier to secure themotherboard first.
Use the following procedure to install the I/O shield and secure the motherboard into thechassis.
Be sure that the CPU fan assembly has enough clearance for the chassis covers tolock into place and for the expansion cards. Also make sure the CPU Fan assembly isaligned with the vents on the covers.

Installing the I/O Shield
The motherboard kit comes with an I/O shield that is used to block radio frequency
transmissions, protects internal components from dust and foreign objects, and promotes
correct airflow within the chassis.
Before installing the motherboard, install the I/O shield from the inside of the chassis. Pressthe I/O shield into place and make sure it fits securely. If the I/O shield does not fit into
the chassis, you would need to obtain the proper size from the chassis supplier.

Securing the Motherboard into the Chassis
Most computer chassis have a base with mounting studs or spacers to allow the motherboard to be secured to the chassis and help to prevent short circuits. If there are studs that
do not align with a mounting hole on the motherboard, it is recommended that you removethat stud to prevent the possibility of a short circuit. In most cases, it is recommended tosecure the motherboard using a minimum of eight (8) to ten (10) spacers.

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1.

Carefully place the motherboard onto the studs/spacers located inside the chassis.

2.

Align the mounting holes with the studs/spacers.

3.

Align the connectors to the I/O shield.

4.

Ensure that the fan assembly is aligned with the chassis vents according to the fan
assembly instruction.

5.

Secure the motherboard with a minimum of eight-to-ten screws.

Connecting Cables and Setting
Switches
This section takes you through all the connections and switch settings necessary on themotherboard. This will include: Power Connections

 24-pin ATX power (PWR1)
 8-pin ATX 12V power (PWR2)
 Internal Headers Front panel
 IEEE 1394a
 USB Headers Audio Speaker
 COM
 FDD
 IDE
 Serial ATA II Chassis Fans
 Rear panel USB 2.0 Adapter
 Expansion slots
 CMOS jumper settings
See Figure 1 on page 5 to locate the connectors and jumpers referenced in the following
procedure.

Power Connections
To support 3-way SLI, this motherboard has the following specific power supply
requirements:
 Minimum 1000 W peak power Six PCI-E power connectors configured in either of the following configurations (seeFigure 3):
 Four 6-pin (3x2) and two 8-pin (4x2) PCI-E power connectorsor Six 6-pin (3x2) PCI-E power connectors

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8-pin (4x2) PCI-E Connector

Figure 3.

6-pin (3x2) PCI-E connector

Power Supply Connectors

Make sure you have enough power to cover all the expansion cards you will be installing. To
determine what power requirements are for your specific configuration or a certified power
supply vendor, refer to www.slizone.com.

24-pin ATX Power (PWR1)
PWR1 is the main power supply connector located along the edge of the board next to theDIMM slots. Make sure that the power supply cable and pins are properly aligned with theconnector on the motherboard. Firmly plug the power supply cable into the connector andmake sure it is secure.

PWR1 connector
Plug power cable from system
power supply to PWR1
Board edge

Figure 4.

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PWR1 Motherboard Connector

Table 1.

PWR1 Pin Assignments

Connector

24

12

13

1

Pin

SignalPin

Signal

1

+3.3V

13

+3.3V

2

+3.3V

14

-12V

3

GND

15

GND

4

+5V

16

PS_ON

5

GND

17

GND

6

+5V

18

GND

7

GND

19

GND

8

PWROK

20

RSVD

9

+5V_AUX

21

+5V

10

+12V

22

+5V

11

+12V

23

+5V

12

+3.3V

24

GND

8-pin ATX 12V Power (PWR2)
PWR2, the 8-pin ATX 12V power connection, is used to provide power to the CPU. Alignthe pins to the connector and press firmly until seated.
5

1

12V

GND

8

4

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Connecting IDE Hard Disk Drives
The IDE connector supports Ultra ATA 133/100/66 IDE hard disk drives.
1.

Connect the blue connector (the cable end with a single connector) to the motherboard.

2. Connect the black connector (the cable with the two closely spaced black and grayconnectors) to the Ultra ATA master device.
3. Connect the gray connector to a slave device.
If you install two hard disk drives, you must configure the second drive as a slave device bysetting its jumper accordingly. Refer to the hard disk drive’s documentation for the jumper
settings.
If an ATA-66/100 disk drive and a disk drive using any other IDE transfer protocol areattached to the same cable, the maximum transfer rate between the drives may be
reduced to that of the slowest drive.

Connecting Serial ATA Cables
The Serial ATA II connector is used to connect the Serial ATA II device to themotherboard. These connectors support the thin Serial ATA II cables for primary storage
devices. The current Serial ATA II interface allows up to 300MB/s data transfer rate.
There are six serial ATA connectors on the motherboard that support RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, RAID 0+1 and JBOD configurations.
SATA 3SATA 4SATA 5SATA 6

GND

GND

TX+
TXSATA 1 (bottom)
SATA 2 (top)

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GND

RX+

Connect the locking cable end to the motherboard connector.
Connect the end without the lock to the drive.

TX-

Connecting Internal Headers
Front Panel Header
The front panel header on this motherboard is
one connector used to connect the following
four cables:(see Table 2 for pin definitions) PWRLED

Attach the front panel power LED
cable to these two pins of the connector.
The Power LED indicates the system’s
status. When the system is in S0 status, theLED is on. When the system is in S1, S3,
S4, S5 status, the LED is off.
Some chassis do not have all four cables. Be sure to match the name on theconnectors to the corresponding pins.

 PWRSW

Attach the power button cable from the case to these two pins. Pressing the power buttonon the front panel turns the system on and off rather than using the power supply button.

 HD_LED

Attach the hard disk drive indicator LED cable to these two pins. The HDD indicator
LED indicates the activity status of the hard disk drives.

 RESET

Attach the Reset switch cable from the front panel of the case to these two pins. The
system restarts when the RESET switch is pressed.

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Table 2.

Front Panel Header Pins
Pin

SignalIn/OutDescription

HD_LED1

HD_PWR

Out

Hard disk drive LED pulls up to +5V

PWRLED32

HDA#
HDR_BLNK_GRN

Out
Out

Hard disk drive active LED
Front panel green light4
5

HDR_BLNK_YEL
GND

Out

RESET

Front panel yellow light
GroundPWRSW

76

FP_RESET#SWITCH_ON#

In
In

Reset switch
Power switch

No Connect

8
9

GND
No Connect

Empty

10

Empty

GroundIEEE 1394a
The IEEE 1394a expansion cable bracket is provided in the box but if you do not require
the additional external connections, you do not need to install it.
1.

Secure the bracket to either the front or rear panel of your chassis (not all chassis are equippedwith the front panel option).

2.

Connect the two ends of the cables to the IEEE 1394a connectors on the motherboard.

Table 3.

IEEE 1394a Connector Pins

Connector
IEEE 1394a Connector

10
8
6
4
2

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9
7
5
3
1

Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

SignalTPA+
TPAGNDGND
TPB+
TPB+12V
+12V
Empty
GND

USB HeadersThis motherboard contains six (6) USB 2.0 ports that are
exposed on the rear panel of the chassis (Figure 2). The
motherboard also contains two
10-pin internal header connectors onboard that can be used
to connect an optional external bracket containing four (4)more USB 2.0 ports.
1.

Secure the bracket to either the front or rear panel ofyour chassis (not all chassis are equipped with thefront panel option).

2.

Connect the two ends of the cables to the USB 2.0
headers on the motherboard.

Table 4.

USB 2.0 Header Pins

Connector
USB 2.0 Header Connector
10
8
6
4
2

9
7
5
3
1

Pin
1

Signal5V_DUAL

3

D-

5

D+

7

GND

9

Empty

Pin

Signal2

5V_DUAL

4

D-

6

D+

8

GND

10

No Connect

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AudioThe audio connector supports HD audio standard and provides two kinds of audio output
choices: the Front Audio, the Rear Audio. The front Audio supports re-tasking function.

Table 5.

Front Audio Connector

Connector
Front Audio Connector
1
3
5
7
9

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2
4
6
8
10

Pin
1

SignalPORT1_L2

AUD_GND

3

PORT1_R

4

PRECENCE_J

5

PORT2_R

6

SENSE1_RETURN7SENSE_SEND

8

Empty

9

PORT2_L10

SENSE2_RETURN

Fan Connections
There are five fan connections on the motherboard. The fan speed can be detected andviewed in the PC Health Status section of the CMOS Setup. The fans are automaticallyturned off after the system enters S3, S4 and S5 mode.

Note that the CPU fan cable canbe either a 3-pin or a 4-pin
connector. Connect a 3-pin
connector to pins 1, 2, and 3 on
the motherboard connector.
CPU Fan Connector

4
1

3

2

GND SENSE
PWR
CONTROLFan Connector
3

1

2

GND
+12V
SENSE

nForce 780i SLI SPP/MCP fan connector.
Install the fan over the nForce 780i SLI SPP todraw heat from the MCP.
The fans plug into a 3-pin connector.

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There are four more fan connectors on the motherboard. For this installation, these will not
be used.
Auxiliary fan connector

Auxiliary fanconnector

Fan Connector
3

1

2

GND
+12V
SENSE

Auxiliary fanconnector
System fanconnector

COM1
The motherboard kit provides an additional serial COM header for your machine. Connect
one side of a switching cable to the header and then attach the serial COM device to theother side of the cable.

FDD Connector
The motherboard supports a standard 360K, 720K, 1.2M, 1.44m, and a 2.88M floppy disk
drive (FDD).

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Expansion Slots
The EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW motherboard contains six expansion slots, four PCI
Express slots and two PCI slots.
1

2

1

2

3

2
1 – PCI slots
2 – PCIe x16 slots(3-Way SLI)
3 – PCIe x1 slot

PCI Slots
The two PCI slots support many expansion cards such as a LAN card, USB card, SCSI cardand other cards that comply with PCI specifications. When installing a card into the PCI
slot, be sure that it is fully seated. Secure the card’s metal bracket to the chassis back panel
with the screw used to hold the blank cover.

PCI Express x1 Slot
There is one PCI Express x1 slot that is designed to accommodate less bandwidth-intensive
cards, such as a modem or LAN card. The x1 slot provides 250 MB/sec bandwidth.

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PCI Express x16 Slots
These three PCI Express x16 slots are reserved for graphics or video cards. The design ofthis motherboard supports three PCI-Express graphics cards using NVIDIA’s SLI
technology.
When installing a PCI Express x16 card, be sure the retention clip snaps and locks the card
into place. If the card is not seated properly, it could cause a short across the pins. Secure thecard’s metal bracket to the chassis back panel with the screw used to hold the blank cover.
To configure for SLI, follow the instructions that come with the SLI kit (the kit is purchased
separately from the motherboard).

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Clear CMOS Function
The motherboard contains a button to clear BIOS configurations back to default settings.
Please see Figure 1 on page 6 for location.

Clear CMOS Button
The motherboard uses the CMOS to store all the set parameters. The CMOS can be clearedby pressing the Clear CMOS button on the motherboard.
Use the following procedure to clear CMOS:
1. Turn off the AC power supply
2. Press the clear CMOS button once to clear the CMOS.
3. Turn the AC power supply back on.

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Configuring the BIOS

This section discusses how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
This section includes the following information:
 Enter BIOS Setup
 Main Menu
 Standard CMOS Features
 Advanced BIOS Features
 Advanced Chipset Features
 Integrated Peripherals
 Power Management Setup
 PnP/PCI Configurations
 PC Health Status
 Frequency/Voltage Control

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Enter BIOS Setup
The BIOS is the communication bridge between hardware and software. Correctly setting
the BIOS parameters is critical when maintaining optimal system performance.
Use the following procedure to verify/change BIOS settings.
1.

Power on the computer.

2.

Press the Del key when the following message briefly displays at the bottom of thescreen during the Power On Self Test (POST).
Press F1 to continue, DEL to enter Setup.

Pressing Del takes you to the Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility.
It is strongly recommended that you do not change the default BIOS settings. Changing
some settings could damage your computer.

Main Menu
The main menu allows you to select from the list of setup functions and two exit choices.
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter todisplay the associated submenu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option
you choose. To go back to the previous menu, press Esc.
Note that on the BIOS screens all data in white is for information only, data in yellow ischangeable, data in blue is non-changeable, and data in a
red box is highlighted for selection.

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Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility

 Standard CMOS Features

 Frequency/Voltage Control

 Advanced BIOS Features

Load Fail-Safe Default

 Advanced Chipset Features

Load Optimized Defaults

 Integrated Peripherals

Set Supervisor Password

 Power Management Setup

Set Password

 PnP/PCI Configurations

Save & Exit Setup

 PC Health Status

Exit Without Saving

Esc : Quit
F10 : Save & Exit Setup: Select Item

Time, Date, Hard Disk Type..,
SLI-Ready memory - Disabled

Figure 5.

BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Menu

 Standard CMOS Features

Use this menu to set up the basic system configuration.
 Advanced BIOS Features

Use this menu to set up the advanced system features and boot sequence.
 Advanced Chipset Features

Use this menu to adjust system bios cacheable and HPET Functions.
 Integrated Peripherals

Use this menu to set up onboard peripherals such as IDE, RAID, USB, LAN, and MAC
control.
 Power Management Setup
Use this menu to configure power management, power on, and sleep features.
 PnP/PCI Configurations
Use this menu to modify the system’s Plug-and-Play and PCI configurations.
 PC Health Status
Use this menu to monitor the real-time system status of your PC, including temperature,
voltages, and fan speed.
 Frequency/Voltage Control
Use this menu to optimize system performance and configure clocks, voltages, memory
timings, and more.

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The following items on the CMOS Setup Utility main menu are commands rather thansubmenus: Load Fail Safe Defaults

Load default system settings.
 Load Optimized Defaults
Loads optimized system settings.
 Set Supervisor Password
Use this command to set, change, and disable the password used to access the BIOS
menu.
 Set User Password
Use this command to set, change, and disable the password used to access the BIOS
menu.
 Save & Exit Setup
Use this command to save settings to CMOS and exit setup.
 Exit Without Saving
Use this command to abandon all setting changes and exit setup.
SLI-Ready Memory is a status indicator displayed at the bottom of the BIOS screen. The
three status indicators are:
 Enabled: SLI-Ready memory is detected and enabled.
 Disabled: SLI-Ready memory is detected but disabled.
 Not Detected: SLI-Ready memory is not detected.

Standard CMOS Features Menu
The Standard CMOS Features menu is used to configure the standard CMOS information, such as thedate, time, HDD model, and so on. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through theoptions or press Enter to display the sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in theoption you choose. To go back to the previous menu, press Esc.

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The information shown in Item Help corresponds to the option highlighted.
UtilityStandard CMOS Features
Date (mm:dd:yy)
Time (hh:mm:ss)
 IDE Channel 0 Master IDE Channel 0 Slave SATA 1 (A0)
 SATA 2 (A1)
 SATA 3 (B0)
 SATA 4 (B1)
 SATA 5 (C0)
 SATA 6 (C1)

Sat, Jul 01 2006
12 : 48: 23[None][None][None][None][None][None][None][None]

Main Level[1.44, 3.5 in.][All , But Keyboard]

Base Memory
Extended Memory
Total Memory

640K
1047552K
1048576K

Figure 6.

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

Change the day, month,year and century

Drive A
Halt On:Move

Item Help

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

Standard CMOS Features Menu

Note that all data in white is for information only, data in yellow is changeable, data inblue is non-changeable, and data in a red box is highlighted for selection.

Date and Time
Using the arrow keys, position the cursor over the month, day, and year. Use the Page Up and Page
Down keys to scroll through dates and times. Note that the weekday (Sun through Sat) cannot bechanged. This field changes to correspond to the date you enter.
Note that the hour value is shown in a 24-hour clock format.
Time is represented as hour : minute : second.
Date (mm:dd:yy)
Time (hh:mm:ss)

Sat, Jul 01 2006
14 : 48: 43

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IDE Channel and SATA Channel
Use these functions to detect and configure the individual IDE and SATA channels. Select achannel and press Enter to display the IDE/SATA sub-menu.
 IDE Channel 0 Master IDE Channel 0 Slave SATA 1 (A0)
 SATA 2 (A1)
 SATA 3 (B0)
 SATA 4 (B1)
 SATA 5 (C0)
 SATA 6 (C1)

[None][None][None][None][None][None][None][None]

Press ENTER to display
SATA Channel sub-menu
IDE Auto-Detect[Press Enter]

Extended IDE Drive
Access Mode

[None}
Auto

Capacity

0 MB

CylinderHead
PrecompLanding Zone
Sector00
0
0
0

Press ENTER to display
IDE Channel sub-menu

IDE HDD Auto-Detect[Press Enter]

IDE Channel 0 Slave
Access Mode

[Auto}[Auto]

Capacity

0 MB

CylinderHead
PrecompLanding Zone
Sector00
0
0
0

Press Enter to auto-detect IDE and SATA channels in the system. Once the channel isdetected, the values for Capacity, Cylinder, Heads, Precomp, Landing Zone, and Sector areautomatically filled in.
 NoneThere is no HDD installed or set.
 AutoThe system can auto-detect the hard disk when booting up.
 Manual
When you set the channel to [Manual] and change Access Mode to [CHS], you canthen enter the number of cylinders, heads, Precomp, landing zone, and sector. You canmanually enter the values or you can press Enter to display a window that tells you themin and max values.

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IDE HDD Auto-Detect[Press Enter]

IDE Channel 0 Slave
Access Mode

[Manual}[CHS]

Capacity
CylinderHead
PrecompLanding Zone
Sector

0 MB.....0
[
0]
[
0]
[
0]
[
0]

Press ENTER to display sub-menu
orCylinderMin=
0
Max=65535

The BIOS supports the following HDD
Key in a DEC number :Access Modes:
 CHS
For HDD less than 528 MB.
 LBA
:Move
ENTER:Accept
For HDD greater than 528 MB andsupporting LBA (Logical Block
Addressing).
 Large
For HDD greater than 528 MB but not supporting LBA.
 AutoRecommended mode.

ESC:Abort

Drive AThe Drive A option allows you to select the kind of FDD to install.
Options are:
Drive A
Halt On[1.44, 3.5 in.][All , But Keyboard] None 360K, 5.25 in.
 1.2M, 5.25 in.
 720K, 3.5 in.
 1.44M, 3.5 in.

Press ENTER to display sub-menu

Drive A
None
360K, 5.25 in.
1.2M, 5.25 in.
720K, 3.5 in.
1.44M, 3.5 in.
2.88M, 3.5 in.

..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]

 2.88M, 3.5 in.

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll
through the options or press Enter to display the submenu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in

:Move

ENTER:Accept

ESC:Abort

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the option you choose. Press Enter to accept the changes and return to the Standard CMOS
Features menu.

Halt On
Halt On determines whether or not the computer stops if an error is detected during poweron. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter todisplay the Halt On sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option
you choose. Press Enter to accept the changes and return to the Standard CMOS Features

menu.
Drive A
Halt On All Errors[1.44, 3.5 in.][All , But Keyboard]

Press ENTER to display sub-menu

Halt On

Whenever the BIOS detects a nonfatal error; theAll Errors..... [ ]system stops and prompts you.
No Errors..... [ ] No Errors
All , But Keyboard..... [ ]All , But Diskette..... [ ]System boot does not stop for any detected errors.
All , But Disk/Key..... [ ] All, But Keyboard
System boot does not stop for keyboard errors,
but does stop for all other errors.
 All, But Diskette
:Move
ENTER:Accept
ESC:Abort
The system boot does not stop for a diskette error
but will stop for all other errors.
 All, But Disk/Key
The system boot does not stop for a keyboard or disk error, but will stop for all othererrors.

MemoryThese settings are display-only values that are determined by the BIOS POST (Power-On Self
Test).
 Base Memory

Base Memory
Extended Memory
Total Memory

640K
1047552K
1048576K

BIOS POST determines the amountof base (or conventional) memory installed in the system.
 Extended Memory
BIOS determines how much extended memory is present during the POST.
 Total Memory
This value represents the total memory of the system.

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Advanced BIOS Features
Access the Advanced BIOS Features menu from the CMOS Utility Setup screen. Use thePage Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the
sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose. To goback to the previous menu, press Esc.
The options that have associated sub-menus are designated by a , which precedes the option.
Press Enter to display the sub-menus.

Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced BIOS Features
 Removable Device Priority
 Hard Disk Boot Priority
 Network Boot Priority
CPU Internal Cache
Quick Power On Self TestFirst Boot Device
Second Boot Device
Third Boot Device
Boot Other Device
Boot Up NumLock Status
Security Option
APIC Mode
MPS Version Control For OS
Full Screen LOGO Show

:Move

Figure 7.

[Press Enter][Press Enter][Press Enter][Enabled][Enabled][Removable][CDROM][Hard Disk][Enabled][On][Setup][Enabled][1.4][Disabled]

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

Item Help

Main Level

Select Removable Boot
Device Priority

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

Advanced BIOS Features Menu

Note that all data in white is for information only, data in yellow is changeable, data in blue is
non-changeable, and data in a red box is highlighted for selection.

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Removable Device Priority
Use this option to select the priority for removable device startup. Press Enter to see the listof removable devices in your system. Use the  arrow keys to go to the various devices.
Then use the + or – keys to move the device priority up or down in the list. To go back to
the previous menu, press Esc.
1. Floppy Disks

Hard Disk Boot Priority
Use this option to select the priority for HDD startup. Press Enter to see the list of bootabledevices in your system. Use the  arrow keys to go to the various devices. Then use the +or – keys to move the device priority up or down in the list. To go back to the previous
menu, press Esc.
1. Ch0.
:
ST3802110A
2. Bootable Add-in Cards

Use the + and – keys to move thepriority of the device within the list

Network Boot Priority
Use this option to select the priority for network startup. Select Network Boot Priorityand press Enter to view available networks. Use the  arrow keys to go to the various
devices. Then use the + or – keys to move the device priority up or down in the list. To goback to the previous menu, press Esc.
1. Network 0 :2. Network 1 :<description of network><description of network>

CPU Internal Cache
Use this option to enable or disable the CPU internal cache. Use the Page Up and Page
Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the options in a submenu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose.

Quick Power On Self Test
Enabling this option allows the system to skip certain test while booting, which reduces thetime needed to boot the system. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to toggle between
Enable and Disable.

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First/Second/Third Boot Device
Use this option to set the priority sequence of the devices booted at power on. Use thePage Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options or press Enter to display the
sub-menu. Use the  arrow keys to position the selector in the option you choose.
First Boot Device
Removable
Hard Disk
CDROM
NetworkDisabled

:Move..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]ENTER:Accept

ESC:Abort

Boot Other Device
With the option set to Enable, the system boots from some other device if thefirst/second/third boot devices fail.

Boot Up NumLock Status
This option allows you to select the power-on state of NumLock. Select On to activate the
keyboard NumLock when the system is started. Select Off to disable the NumLock key.

Security Option
The Security Options allows you to require a password every time the system boots or only
when you enter setup. Select Setup to require a password to gain access to the CMOS Setup
screen. Select System to require a password to access the CMOS Setup screen and when
the system boots.

APIC ModeUse this function to enable or disable the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller(APIC). If you disable this option, you also disable the MPS Version Control for OS option.

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MPS Version Control For OS
Use this function to select the Multi-Processor Specification (MPS) version that BIOS passes
to the operating system. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through theoptions.

Full Screen LOGO Show
This option allows you to enable or disable the display of the full-screen logo when thesystem boots. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to toggle between Enable andDisableEVGA

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Advanced Chipset Features
Select Advanced Chipset Features from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enterto display the functions of the Advanced Chipset Features menu.

Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced Chipset Features
System Bios Cacheable
HPET Function[Disabled][Enabled]

Item Help

Main Level

:Move

Figure 8.

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults



F1:General Help

Advanced Chipset Features

System BIOS Cacheable
This function allows you to enable or disable caching the system BIOS.

HPET Function
This function allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Even Timer (HPET). When
Enabled, HPET is used as the timing hardware for multimedia and other time-sensitive
application. When HPET is Disabled, the APIC timer is used.

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Integrated Peripherals Menu
Select Integrated Peripherals from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter todisplay the Integrated Peripherals menu.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Integrated Peripherals
 IDE Function Setup
 RAID Config
 USB Config
 MAC Config
IEEE1394 controller
HD Audio
IDE HDD Block Mode
Onboard FDC Controller
Onboard Serial Port 1

:Move

Figure 9.

[Press Enter][Press Enter][Press Enter][Press Enter][Auto][Auto][Enabled][Enabled][3FB/IRQ4]Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

IDE Function Setup
Press Enter to display the IDE Function Setup menu.

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[Enabled][Auto][Auto][Auto][Auto][Enabled][All Enabled][Enabled]

Main Level

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

Integrated Peripherals Menu

OnChip IDE Channel0
Primary Master
PIO
Primary Slave
PIO
Primary Master
UDMA
Primary SlaveUDMA
IDE DMA transfer access
Serial-ATA Controller
IDE Prefetch Mode

Item Help

F1:General Help OnChip IDE Channel0

Use this function to enable or
OnChip IDE Channel0[Disabled]x Primary Master
PIO
Autodisable the onchip IDE
x Primary Slave
PIO
Auto
Channel0. When disabled, thex Primary Master
UDMA
Auto
Primary Master/Slave functions
x Primary Slave
UDMA
Auto
IDE DMA transfer access[Enabled]
are changed to Auto and cannot
Serial-ATA Controller[All Enabled]
be changed.
IDE Prefetch Mode
[Enabled]
 Primary Master/Slave PIO
When OnChip IDE Channel0
is set to [Enabled], you can select a mode for the primary Master and Slave PIO. Selectfrom Auto, or Mode 1 through Mode 4.
 Primary Master/Slave UDMA
When OnChip IDE Channel0 is set to [Enabled], you can disable the primary
Master and Slave UDMA or set it to [Auto].
 IDE DMA transfer access
Use this function to enable or disable IDE DMA transfer access.
 Serial-ATA Controller

This function allows you to enable specific SATA controllers, enable all controllers, ordisable all controllers. The options available are [SATA-0], [SATA-0+1], [Enable
All], and [Disabled].
 IDE Prefetch ModeUse this function to enable or disable the IDE Prefetch mode.

RAID Config
Press Enter to display the RAID Config menu.
RAID Enable
SATA 0 Primary
SATA 0 Secondary
SATA 1 Primary
SATA 1 Secondary
SATA 2 Primary
SATA 2 Secondary

RAID
RAID
RAID
RAID
RAID
RAID

[Enabled][Disabled][Disabled][Disabled][Disabled][Disabled][Disabled]

 RAID Enable

Use this function to enable or disable
RAID. When RAID is set to[Disabled], all SATA functions arechanged to Disabled and cannot bechanged.

RAID Enable
SATA 0 Primary
x SATA 0 Secondary
x SATA 1 Primary
x SATA 1 Secondary
x SATA 2 Primary
x SATA 2 Secondary
x

RAID
RAID
RAID
RAID
RAID
RAID

[Disabled]
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled

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 SATA x Primary/Secondary

When RAID Enable is set to [Enabled], you can enable or disable the various SATA
functions.

USB Config
Press Enter to display the USB Config menu.
OnChip USB
USB Keyboard Support
USB Mouse Support[Enabled][Disabled][Disabled] OnChip USB

Use this function to enable specific versions of the USB or disable the onchip USB. Whenthe onchip USB is set to [Disabled], the keyboard and mouse support functions are set
to Enabled and cannot be changed. Versions that can be selected are [V1.1+V2.0] or[V1.1].
OnChip USB[Disabled] USB Keyboard/Mouse Support
x USB Keyboard Support
EnabledUse these function to enable orx USB Mouse Support
Enableddisable the onchip WSB support of
the keyboard and/or mouse.

MAC Config
Press Enter to display the MAC Config menu.
MAC0 LAN
MAC1 LAN[Enabled][Disabled]

 MACx LAN

Use these functions to set the MAC0 and/or MAC1 LANs to Auto or disable theirfunctions.

IEEE1394 controller
This function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to enable or disable theIEEE1394 (Firewire) interface.

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HD AudioThis function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to enable or disable theintegrated high definition audio.

IDE HDD Block Mode
Using this function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows your IDE hard drive needs tosupport block mode. Select [Enabled] to automatically detect the optimal number ofblock read/writes per sector the drive can support. Select [Disabled] if your drive does
not support block mode.

Onboard FDC Controller
This function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to enable or disable theonboard Floppy Disk Controller function.

Onboard Serial Port 1
This function on the Integrated Peripherals menu allows you to select the onboard serial
port 1 function. Options are [3F8/IRQ4], 2E8/IRQ3], [3E8/IRQ4], [Auto], and[Disabled].

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Power Management Setup Menu
Select Power Management Setup from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter todisplay the Power Management Setup menu.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Power Management Setup
ACPI function
APCI Suspend Type
Soft-Off by PBTNWOL(PME#) From Soft-Off[Enabled][S1&S3][Instant-Off][Disabled]

Power-on by Alarmx Day of Month Alarmx Time (hh:mm:ss) Alarm[Disabled]0
0 : 0 : 0

POWER ON Function
KB Power ON Password
x Hot Key Power On[BUTTON ONLY]Enter
Ctrl-F1x:Move

Figure 10.

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

Item Help

Main Level

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults



F1:General Help

Power Management Setup Menu

ACPI Function
This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to enable or disable the
ACPI function.

ACPI Suspend Type
This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to select an ACPI Suspend
Type. Types to select from are [S1&S3], [S1(POS)], and [S3(STR)].

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Soft-Off by PBNTThis function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to set Soft-Off by PBNT
to [Instant-Off] or [Delay 4 Sec].

WOL(PME#) From Soft-Off
This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to enable or disable
WOL(PMW#) from soft-off.

Power On by Alarm
This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to enable or disable thePower-on by alarm function. Set to [Disable] to prevent power-on by alarm. When set to[Enable], you can manually put in the day of the month and the time of the alarm.
Power-on by AlarmDay of Month Alarm
Time (hh:mm:ss) Alarm[Disabled][ 0][0 : 0 : 0]

To enter a day or time, use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through numbers orenter the number using the keyboard number or the + and – keys.

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POWER ON Function
This function on the Power Management Setup menu allows you to define the power-onfunction. Options for this function are:
 BUTTON ONLY Keyboard 98
 Password

When [Password] is selected, the KB Power ON Password function is enabled sothat you must enter a password.
POWER ON Function
KB Power ON Password
x Hot Key Power On[Password][Enter]Ctrl-F1

 Hot Key Power On

When [Hot Key] is selected, the Hot key Power On function is enabled so thatyou must select a keyboard key as the hot key. To select a hot key use Ctrl+F1 thoughCtrl+F12x

POWER ON Function
KB Power ON Password
Hot Key Power On Mouse Left
 Mouse Right Any Key

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[Hot key]Enter[Ctrl-F1]

PnP/PCI Configuration Menu
Select PnP/PCI Configuration from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter todisplay the PnP/PCI Configuration menu.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
PnP/PCI Configurationx

Init Display First
Reset Configuration Data

[PCI Slot][Disabled]

Resources Controlled By
IRQ Resources[Auto(ESCD)]
Press Enter

Item Help

Main Level

** PCI Express relative items **Maximum Payload Size
[4096]

:Move

Figure 11.

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

PnP/PCI Configuration Menu

Init Display First
This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to define if the initial display
is in the PCI slot or in the PCI Express slot. Options are[PCI Slot] and [PCIEx].

Reset Configuration Data
This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to enable or disable theresetting of Extended System Configuration Data (ESCD) when you exit Setup.

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Set this to [Enabled] if you have installed a new add-on and the system reconfiguration
has caused a serious conflict that prevents the OS from booting. The default setting is[Disabled].

Resources Controlled By
This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to define if the BIOS canautomatically configure all the boot and plug-and-play compatible devices or if you canmanually select IRQ, DMA, and memory base address fields. Select [Auto(ESCD)] if you
want the BIOS to automatically populate these fields. If you select [Manual] so you canassign the resources, IRQ Resources is enabled for input.
Resources Controlled Byx IRQ Resources[Auto(ESCD)]
Press Enter

Resources Controlled By
IRQ Resources[Manual)][Press Enter]

IRQ Resources
To enable this field for input, set Resources Controlled By to [Manual]. With thisfield enabled, press Enter to see options.
IRQ-5 assigned toIRQ-9 assigned toIRQ-10 assigned toIRQ-11 assigned toIRQ-14 assigned toIRQ-15 assigned to[PCI Device][Reserved][PCI Device][PCI Device][PCI Device][PCI Device]

Use Legacy ISA for devices compliant with the original PC AT Bus specification. Use
PCI/ISA PnP for devices compliant with the plug-and-play standard, whether designed for
PCI or ISA Bus architecture.

PCI/VGA Palette Snoop
This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to enable or disable the
Palette Snoop function.

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46

Maximum Payload Size
This function on the PnP/PCI Configuration menu allows you to set the maximum TLP
payload size (in bytes) for the PCI Express devices. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys
to scroll through sizes or enter the number using the keyboard numbers or use the + and –keys to go up and down the list of sizes.

PC Health Status
Select PC Health Status from the CMOS Setup Utility menu and press Enter to display
the PC Health Status menu.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
System Monitor
 Dynamic Fan Control
CPU
Board
MCP
CPU Core
CPU FSB
Memory+3.3V+3.3V Dual
+12V
+5V
+Vbat

Figure 12.

Item Help

Main Level



1.28V
1.19V
1.81V
3.16V
3/16V
12.09V
4.99V
3.00V

CPU Fan Speed
Aux Fan SpeednForce Fan Speed
Chassis Fan Speed
Chassis Fan2 Speed

:Move[Press Enter]42ºC/ 108ºF
39ºC/ 102ºF
52ºC/ 126ºF

4272 RPM
4891 RPM
2054 RPM
0 RPM
0 RPM

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

PC Health Status

All of the values shown in Blue are dynamic and change as the speed and voltages of thevarious components change with system usage.

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47

Dynamic Fan Control
Press Enter to display the Dynamic Fan Control menu.
CPU Fan Speed Control[SmartFan]
If temp > 70ºC, Set Fan Speed 100%
If temp < 30ºC, Set Fan Speed1%
x Manual Fan Speed, %100
Chassis Fan Speed Control, % [SmartFan]
If temp > 70ºC, Set Fan Speed 100%
If temp < 30ºC, Set Fan Speed1%
x Manual Fan Speed, %100nForce Fan Speed Control, %Manual Fan Speed, %x[SmartFan]
100

AUX Fan Speed Control, % [100]Chassis Fan2 Speed Control, % [100]Use this menu to control the speed of the various fans on the motherboard. Set CPU fan
speed, Chassis Fan, and nForce Fan to [SmartFan] when you want the speed of the fansautomatically controlled based on temperature. To set the fan speed to a constant rate, select[Manual] and then enter the speed from 0% to 100%.
Set the desired speed for the AUX, and Chassis fans from 0% to 100%. The system defaults
to 100%.

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48

Frequency/Voltage Control
Press Enter to display the sub-menus.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Frequency/Voltage Control
Dummy OC System Clocks
 FSB & Memory Config
 CPU Feature
 System Voltages

Load Timing/Voltage Set
Save Timing/Voltage Set

:Move[Disabled][Press Enter][Press Enter][Press Enter][Enabled]

Item Help

Main Level

[Press Enter][Press Enter]Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

Dummy O.C
Choose different levels of CPU OC 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% increments. Thisfunction will allow to automatically overclock your CPU. The O.C’s stability will rely on the
CPU type, good CPU’s heat dissipation, O.C memory modules and so on.

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System Clocks
Select System Clocks from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press Enter todisplay the System Clocks menu. From this menu, you are able to specify frequency settings,
HT multipliers, and Spread Spectrum settings. Note that in Figure 9, all of the options arelisted. On the actual BIOS screen, you will need to scroll down to see all the options.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
System Clocks
Parameters**Frequency Settings**
CPU Freq, MHz
FSB Reference Clock, MHz
CPU Multiplier
CPU N/2 Ratio
PCIe x16_1, MHz
PCIe x16_3, MHz
PCIe x16_2, MHz
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, MHz

Settings

Current Vale2933.31066.7[11 X]Disabled[Auto][Auto][Auto][Auto]

2933.31066.7
11X**HT Multiplier**nForce SPP --> nForce MCP
nForce SPP <-- nForce MCP

[5 x]
[5 x]

**Spread Spectrum**
CPU Spread Spectrum
HT Spread Spectrum
PCIe Spread Spectrum(MCP)
SATA Spread Spectrum[UP Spread]
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled

Item Help

Main LevelCPU frequency multiplier.
CPU core clock= FSB Ref Clock/4 *CPU Multiplier

100
100
100
100


:Move

Figure 13.

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

System Clocks Menu

Note that all data in white is for information only, data in yellow is changeable, data in blue is
non-changeable, and data in a red box is highlighted for selection.

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Frequency Settings
 CPU Freq, MHz

This value is set by the CPU Multiplier (value cannot be changed by the user).
 FSB Reference Clock. MHz

This value is set by the system (value cannot be changed by the user). To change the SLIReady memory, FSB memory, and memory timing, go to the FSB & Memory screen.
 CPU MultiplierThis value changes the CPU Frequency value depending on the value you choose. Use thePage Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the options. The options are from 6 X
through 60 X.
 PCIe x16_1, MHz
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the frequency options for the
PCI Express Bus, Slot 1 (the black slot closest to the CPU). Note that as you go higher invalue, PCIe Spread Spectrum(SPP) is disabled and cannot be changed from thisstatus.
 PCIe x16_3, MHz
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the frequency options for the
PCI Express Bus, Slot 3 (the blue slot in the middle).
 PCIe x16_2, MHz
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the frequency options for the
PCI Express Bus, Slot 3 (the black slot farthest from the CPU).
 SPP<—>MCP Ref Clock, MHz
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the frequency options for thereference clock between the SPP chip and the MCP chip.

HT Multiplier nForce SPP — —> nForce MCP

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the HT multiplier options andset the link speed from the SPP chip to the MCP chip. Values are [1 x] through [5 x].
 nForce MCP <— — nForce SPP
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the HT multiplier options andset the link speed from the MCP chip to the SPP chip. Values are [1 x] through [5 x].

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Spread Spectrum
 CPU Spread Spectrum

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the Spread Spectrum options for
the CPU. Option values are [Disabled], [UP Spread], and [Center Spread].
 HT Spread Spectrum
Disabled PCIe Spread Spectrum(MCP)
Disabled SATA Spread Spectrum
Disabled

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FSB & Memory Config
Select FSB & Memory Config from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press Enterto display the FSB & Memory Config menu. This menu provides the means to set SLIReady memory, FSB memory, and memory timing.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
FSB & Memory Config
Parameters
SLI-Ready Memory

Item Help

Settings Current Value[Disabled]
Disabled

CPU Freq, MHz
CPU Multiplier
FSB – Memory Clock Modex FSB (QDR), MHz
Actual FSB (QDR), MHz
x MEM (DDR), MHz
Actual MEM (DDR), MHz

2933.3
11X[Auto]
Auto1066.7
Auto
800.0

 Memory Timing Setting[Press Enter]

2933.311X

Main Level1066.7“CPUOC MAX” realizes thecomplete optimized memory
settings when SLI-Readymemory is installed

800.6



Optimized memory settingsby allowing X% CPU
overclocking
CPU overclocking may
require manual
overvolting of the CPU to
improve system stability

:Move

Figure 14.

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

FSB & Memory Config Menu

 SLI-Ready Memory

Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the SLI-Ready Memory options.
The options are:
 Disabled CPUOC 0%
 CPUOC 1%
 CPUOC 2%
 CPUOC 3%
 CPUOC 4%
 CPUOC 5%
 CPUOC MAX
 Expert
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When you select one of the CPUOC x% options, the FSB - Memory Clock Mode is set to
Unlinked and cannot be changed until SLI-Ready Memory is set to Disable. Please
note when enabling SLI –Ready memory, timings and voltages will change automatically
based on selection.
 FSB and Memory Clock ModeUse the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the FSB and Memory Clock
Mode options. The options are:
 AutoThis is the optimal setting since it sets the FSB and memory speeds automatically.
 Linked
When Link is selected, FSB (QDR), MHz is changed to editable and the FSB speed
can be entered manually. As the FSB speed is changed, CPU Freq, MHz changes
proportionally.
CPU Freq, MHz
CPU Multiplier
FSB – Memory Clock Mode
FSB (QDR), MHz
Actual FSB (QDR), MHz
x MEM (DDR), MHz
Actual MEM (DDR), MHz

2933.3
11X[Linked][1067]
1066.7
Auto
800.0

2933.311X
1066.7800.6

 Unlinked
When Unlink is selected, FSB (QDR), MHz and MEM (DDR), MHz are changed
to editable and the FSB and memory speeds can be entered manually. As the FSB
speed is changed, CPU Freq, MHz changes proportionally.
FSB – Memory Clock Mode
FSB (QDR), MHz
Actual FSB (QDR), MHz
MEM (DDR), MHz
Actual MEM (DDR), MHz[Linked][1067]
1066.7[1067]
800.0

1066.7800.6

 FSB (QDR), MHz

Use the + or – keys to scroll through new values for the CPU FSB frequency or type in a
new value. Note that the Actual FSB (QDR) reflects the actual frequency that takes
effect on a reboot.
 MEM (DDR), MHz
Use the + or – keys to scroll through new values for the memory frequency or type in a
new value. Note that the Actual MEM (DDR) reflects the actual frequency that takes
effect when the system reboots.

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 Memory Timing Setting

Press Enter to display the Memory Timing Setting menu. Use this menu to set optimal
timings or to manually enter timings.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Memory Timing Setting
Parameters
Memory Timing Setting
x tCL (CAS Latency)
x tRDCx tRP
x tRASx Command Per Clock (CDM)

Settings

Current Value[Optimal]Auto(5)Auto(7)
Auto(7)
Auto(23)
Auto(2T)

5
5
5
18
1T

** Advanced Memory Settings **x tRRD
Auto(4)x tRC
Auto(28)x tWR
Auto(7)x tWTR
Auto(10)x tREF
Auto:MoveEnter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

Item Help

Main Level

Select [Expert] to enter
timings manually

3
22
5
9
6.1uS

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help[ Optimal
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to select Optimal. Optimal prohibits you
from manually setting any timing. All timing is set for optimal performance.

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 Expert
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to select Expert. When Expert is selected,
all timing categories are enabled for manual input. Note that you should set the value
to Optimal to use the manufacturers’ recommended values.
Parameters

Settings

Current Value

Memory Timing SettingtCL (CAS Latency)
tRDC
tRP
tRAS
Command Per Clock (CDM)[Expert][Auto(5)][Auto(7)][Auto(7)][Auto(23)][Auto(2T)]** Advanced Memory Settings **tRRD[Auto(4)]tRC[Auto(28)]tWR[Auto(7)]tWTR[Auto(10)]tREF[Auto]

5
5
5
18
1T
3
22
5
9
6.1uS

tCL: CAS# latency (options are 1 through 6).
tRDC: RAS#-to-CAS# Delay for Read/Write commands to the same bank

(options are 1 through 7).
tRP: Row Precharge time. This is the Precharge-to-Active or Auto-to-Refresh of

the same bank (options are 1 through 7).
tRAS: This is the minimum RAS# active time (options are 1 through 31).
Command Per Clock: This is the command timing setting on a per clock unit

basis (options are 1T and 2T).
tRRD: RAS#-to-RAS# delay of different banks (options are 1 through 15).
tRC: RAS#-to-RAS# or auto refresh time of the same bank (options are 1 through31).
tWR: The Write recovery time (options are 2 through 7).
tWTR: This is the minimum write-to-read delay with the same chip selected(options are 1 through 10).
tREF: This is the DRAM refresh rate (options are Auto, 7.8uS, and 3.9uS).

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CPU Feature
Select CPU Feature from the Frequency/Voltage control menu and press Enter to display
the CPU Feature menu.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
CPU Feature
Limit CPUID MaxVal
Intel SpeedStepx PPM Mode
CPU Thermal Control
C1E Enhanced Halt State
Execute Disable Bit
Virtualization Technology
CPU Core 0
CPU Core 1
CPU Core 2
CPU Core 3

:Move

Figure 15.

[Disabled][Disabled]
Native mode
[Disabled][Enabled][Enabled][Enabled]

Item Help

Main Level

Set linit CPUID MaxVal to3, should be “Disabled”
for WinXP

Enabled[Enabled][Enabled][Enabled]

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

CPU Configuration Menu

 Limit CPUID MaxVal

Use this function to enable the set limit of the CPUID MaxVal to 3. Set to Disable for
Win XP.
 Intel SpeedStep
If enabled, CPU clock speed and CPU core voltage are adjusted dynamically based on the
CPU load.
 PPM Mode
Options are Native mode and SSM mode.

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 CPU Thermal Control

Use this function to enable or disable TM1 and TM2 support. Options are:
 Disable
Disable support for TM1 and TM2.
 TM1 Only
The CPU is thermally throttled by cutting active processor clock cycles.
 TM2 Only
Thermal throttling is achieved by reducing the CPU multiplier and CPU core voltage.
 TM1 & TM2
Enables support for both TM1 and TM2.
 C1E Enhanced Halt State
Enabled, this function reduces the CPU power consumption when the CPU is idle. Idle
occurs when the operating system issues a halt instruction.
 Execute Disable Bit
When this function is disabled, it forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).
 Virtualization Technology
When this function is enabled, it allows a VMM to utilize the additional hardware
capabilities provided by Intel Virtualization Technology.
 CPU Core 1-3
This function allows you to enable or disable CPU Cores.

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System Voltages
Select System Voltages from the Advanced Chipset Features menu and press Enter todisplay the System Voltages menu.
Phoenix – AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
System Voltages
Parameters
EVGA VDroop control
CPU Core
CPU FSB
MemorynForce SPP
nForce MCP
HT nForce SPP <-> MCP
nForce MCP Auxiliary
GTLVREF Lane 0
GTLVREF Lane 1
GTLVREF Lane 2
GTLVREF Lane 3

:Move

Figure 16.

Settings Current Value[With VDroop][Auto]
1.28[Auto]
1.2V[Auto]
1.85V[Auto]
1.30V[Auto]
1.50V[Auto]
1.20V[Auto]
1.50V[Auto][Auto][Auto][Auto]

Enter:Select +/-/PU/PD:Value
F5: Previous Values

Item Help

Main Level

Voltage level for CPU
Core (CPU VID)

+00mv
+00mv
+00mv
+00mv

F10:Save ESC:Exit
F7:Defaults

F1:General Help

System Voltages Menu

 EVGA VDroop control

This Function offers options of With VDroop or Without VDroop to reduce voltage
droop.
 CPU Core
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the voltages or select [Auto] toautomatically set the voltage level for the CPU Core.
 CPU FSB
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to scroll through the voltages or select [Auto] toautomatically set the voltage level for the CPU FSB.
 Memory
This function defines the voltage level for the DRAM. Use the Page Up and Page Down
keys to select a voltage or select [Auto] to automatically set the voltage.

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 nForce SPPThis function defines the core voltage level for the NVIDIA nForce SPP chip. Use thePage Up and Page Down keys to select a voltage (1.20V, 1.30V, 1.40V, 1.50V) or select[Auto] to automatically set the voltage.
 nForce MCPThis function defines the core voltage level for the NVIDIA nForce MCP chip. Use thePage Up and Page Down keys to select a voltage or select [Auto] to automatically set
the voltage.
 HT nForce SPP <-> MCP
This function defines the voltage level for the NVIDIA HT nForce SPP <-> MCP Link.
Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to select a voltage or select [Auto] toautomatically set the voltage.
 nForce MCP Auxiliary
This function defines the core voltage level for the NVIDIA nForce MCP Auxiliary
voltage. Use the Page Up and Page Down keys to select a voltage or select [Auto] toautomatically set the voltage.
 GTLVREF Lane 0This function defines the voltage level for GTLVREF Lane 0. Use the Page Up and Page
Down keys to select a voltage or select [Auto]to automatically set the voltage.
 GTLVREF Lane 1
This function defines the voltage level for GTLVREF Lane 1. Use the Page Up and Page
Down keys to select a voltage or select [Auto]to automatically set the voltage.
 GTLVREF Lane 2This function defines the voltage level for GTLVREF Lane 2. Use the Page Up and Page
Down keys to select a voltage or select [Auto] to automatically set the voltage.
 GTLVREF Lane 3This function defines the voltage level for GTLVREF Lane 3. Use the Page Up and Page
Down keys to select a voltage or select [Auto] to automatically set the voltage.

NVMEM Memory Test
This function defines whether you run the NVIDIA memory testing module during POST.
The options are Fast, Medium, Slow, and Disable.

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Load Timing/Voltage Set
This function loads the system voltages and timing settings that were defined in the System
Voltages menu. You can set up to four profile settings using the Save timing/voltage
set function.
There are four profile options that can be loaded. Press Enter to see the options.
Load timing/voltage set
Press Enter to Exit
Select Profile 1
Select Profile 2
Select Profile 3..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]:Move

ESC:Abort

ENTER:Accept

Save Timing/Voltage Set
This function saves the system voltages and timing settings that were defined in the System
Voltages menu. There are four profile options that can be loaded.
Press Enter to see the options.
Save timing/voltage set
Press Enter to Exit
Select Profile 1
Select Profile 2
Select Profile 3..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]..... [ ]:Move

ESC:Abort

ENTER:Accept

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EVGA

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Installing Drivers andSoftware

It is important to remember that before installing the driver CD that is shipped in the kit, you needto load your operating system. The motherboard supports Windows XP 32bit and 64bit
and is Vista-capable.

The kit comes with a CD that contains drivers and additional NVIDIA software.
The CD that has been shipped with your EVGA motherboard contains the following
software and drivers:
 NVIDIA nForce motherboard drivers
 Audio drivers
 RAID drivers
 Adobe Acrobat Reader
 User’s Manual

Driver Installation
3.
4.

Insert the EVGA nForce 780i SLI FTW installation CD for the motherboard includedin the kit.
The CD will autorun, install the drivers and utilities listed on the install screen.

If the CD does not run, go to My Computer and click on the CD to open.

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EVGA

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EVGA Glossary of Terms:
ACPI - Advanced Configuration and Power Interface
AFR – Alternate Frame Rendering
APIC - Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller
BIOS - Basic Input Output System
CD-ROM - Compact Disc Read-Only Memory
CMOS - Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor
CPU – Central Processing Unit
D-ICE – Dry Ice Cooling
DDR2 - Double Data Rate 2
DDR3 - Double Data Rate 3
DIMM - Dual In-line Memory Module
DRAM - Dynamic random access memory
DVD - Digital Versatile Disc
DVI – Digital Video Interface
FDC - Floppy Disk Controller
FSB – Front Side Bus
FTW – For The Win!
GHz – Gigahertz
GPU – Graphics Processing Unit
HDD - Hard Disk Drive
HDMI - High-Definition Multimedia Interface
HDR – High Dynamic Range Lighting
HPET - High Precision Event Timer
HSF - Heat Sink Fan
I/O - Input/Output
IDE - Integrated Drive Electronics
IEEE - Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
IGP - Integrated Graphics Processors
IRQ - Interrupt Request
JBOD - Just a Bunch of DisksJEDEC - Joint Electron Device Engineering Conucil
LAN - Local Area Network

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LCD - Liquid Crystal Display
LGA – Land Grid Array
LN2 – Liquid Nitrogen Cooling
MAC - Media Access Control
MCP - Media and Communications Processor
MHz - Megahertz
NB - Northbridge
NCQ - Native Command Queuing
NIC - Network Interface Card
NTFS - New Technology File System
OEM - Original Equipment Manufacturer
PATA - Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment
PCB - Printed Circuit Board
PCI - Peripheral Component Interconnect
PCIe - Peripheral Component Interconnect Express
PCI-x - Peripheral Component Interconnect Extended
POST – Power on Self Test
QDR - Quad Data Rate
RAID - Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks
RGB - Red Green BlueSATA - Serial Advanced Technology Attachment
SB - Southbridge
SCSI - Small Computer System Interface
SFR – Split Frame Rendering
SLI - Scalable Link Interface
SPD - Serial Presence Detect
SPDIF - Sony/Philips Digital Interconnect Format
SPP - System Platform Processors
TCP/IP - Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
USB - Universal Serial Bus
VDroop - V-core Voltage Drop
VGA - Video Graphics Array

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Appendix A.
POST Codes for Tritium Platform

This section provides the Award POST Codes (Table 6) and the NVMM POST Codes(Table 7) for Tritium platforms during system boot up.

Table 6.

Award POST CodeAward POST Codes
Code

Name

01

Reserved

Description

02

Jumps to E000
segment

Execution of POST routines in E000

03

Early SuperIO

Init Early Initialized the super IO

04

Reserved

05

Blank video

06

Reserved

07

Init KBC

Keyboard controller init

08

KB test

Test the Keyboard

09

Reserved

0A

Mouse Init

0B

Reserved

0C

Reserved

0D

Reserved

0E

CheckSum Check

0F

Reserved

10

Autodetect EEPROM

11

Reserved

12

Test CMOS

Reset Video controller

Initialized the mouse

Check the integrity of the ROM,BIOS and message
Check Flash type and copy flash write/erase routines
Test and Reset CMOS

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Award POST Codes

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68

Code

Name

13

Reserved

Description

14

Load Chipset

15

Reserved

16

Init Clock17

Reserved

18

Init CPU

19

Reserved

1A

Reserved

1B

Setup Interrupt
Vector Table

Initialize first 120 interrupt vectors withSPURIOUS_INT_HDLR and initialize INT 00h-1Fh according
to INT_TBL

1C

CMOS Battery Check

Test CMOS and check Battery Fail

1D

Early PM

Early PM initialization

1E

Reserved

1F

Re-initial KB

20

Reserved

21

HPM init

22

Reserved

23

Program chipset

Early Programming of chipset registers

24

Init PNP

Init PNP

25

Shadow VBIOS

Shadow system/video BIOS

26

Clock Gen

Init onboard clock generator and sensor

27

Setup BDA

Setup BIOS DATA AREA (BDA)

28

Reserved

29

CPU Speed detect

2A

Reserved

2B

Init video

2C

Reserved

2D

Video memory test

2E

Reserved

2F

Reserved

30

Reserved

31

Reserved

32

Reserved

Load Chipset Defaults
Initialize onboard clock generator
CPU ID and initialize L1/L2 cache

Load keyboard matrix
Init Heuristic Power Management (HPM)

Chipset programming and CPU Speed detect
Initialize Video
Test Video Memory and display Logos

Award POST Codes
Code

Name

Description

33

Early keyboard reset

Early Keyboard Reset

34

Reserved

35

Test DMA Controller
036

Reserved

37

Test DMA Controller
138

Reserved

39

Test DMA Page
Registers

3A

Reserved

3B

Reserved

3C

Test Timer

3D

Reserved

3E

Test 8259-1 Mask

3F

Reserved

40

Test 8259-2 Mask

41

Reserved

42

Reserved

43

Test Stuck Interrupt

44

Reserved

45

Reinit serial port

46

Reserved

47

EISA Test

48

Reserved

49

Size Memory

4A

Reserved

4B

Reserved

4C

Reserved

4D

Reserved

Test DMA channel 0

Test DMA channel 1

Test DMA Page Registers

Test 8254 Timer 0 Counter 2.
Verify 8259 Channel 1 masked interrupts by alternately
turning off and on the interrupt lines.
Verify 8259 Channel 2 masked interrupts by alternately
turning off and on the interrupt lines.

Turn off interrupts then verify no 8259's interrupt mask
register is on. Test 8259 Force an interrupt and verify theinterrupt occurred.
Reinitialize Preboot agent serial port
If EISA non-volatile memory checksum is good, execute
EISA initialization. If not, execute ISA tests and clear EISA
mode flag.
Size base memory from 256K to 640K and extended
memory above 1MB.

EVGA

69

Award POST Codes

EVGA

70

Code

Name

Description

4E

Init APIC

Initialize APIC and set MTRR

4F

Reserved

50

USB init

51

Reserved

52

Memory Test

53

Reserved

54

Reserved

55

CPU display

56

Reserved

57

PnP Init Display

58

Reserved

59

Setup Virus

5A

Reserved

5B

Awdflash Load

5C

Reserved

5D

Onboard I/O

5E

Reserved

5F

Reserved

60

Setup enable

61

Reserved

62

Reserved

63

Initialize Mouse

64

Reserved

65

PS2 Mouse special

66

Reserved

67

ACPI init

68

Reserved

69

Init Cache

6A

Reserved

6B

Setup

6C

Reserved

6D

Initialize Floppy

Initialize USB controller
Test all memory of memory above 1MB using Virtual 8086
mode, page mode and clear the memory

Detect CPU speed and display CPU vendor specific version
string and turn on all necessary CPU features
PnP logo and PnP early init
Setup virus protect according to Protect Setup
If required, will auto load Awdflash.exe in POST
Init Initializing onboard superIO

Display setup message and enable setup functions

Detect if mouse is present, initialize mouse, install interrupt
vectors.
Special treatment to PS2 Mouse port
ACPI sub-system initializing
Initialize cache controllerEnter setup check and autoconfiguration check up
Initialize floppy disk driveAward POST Codes
Code

Name

6E

Reserved

Description

6F

FDD install

70

Reserved

71

Reserved

72

Reserved

73

Initialize Hard Drive

74

Reserved

75

Detect HDD

76

Reserved

77

Detect serial ports

78

Reserved

79

Reserved

7A

Detect parallel ports

7B

Reserved

7C

HDD Write Protect

7D

Reserved

7E

Reserved

7F

POST error check80

Reserved

81

Reserved

82

Security Check

Ask password security.

83

Write CMOS

Write all CMOS values back to RAM and clear screen.

84

Display PNP

Display PNP devices

85

USB Final Init

Final USB initialization

86

Reserved

87

Reserved

88

Reserved

89

Setup ACPI tables

8A

Reserved

8B

Option ROM Detect

8C

Reserved

8D

Enable Parity Check

8E

Reserved

Install FDD and setup BIOS data area parameters

Initialize hard drive controller
IDE device detection
Initialize serial ports.

Initialize parallel ports.
HDD check for write protection

Check POST error and display them and ask for userintervention

Setup ACPI tables
Scan for Option ROMs
Enable Parity Check

EVGA

71

Award POST Codes

EVGA

72

Code

Name

Description

8F

IRQ12 Enable

Enable IRQ12 if mouse present

90

Reserved

91

Reserved

92

Reserved

93

Boot Medium Read

Detect and store boot partition head and cylinders values inRAM

94Final Init

Final init for last micro details before boot95

NumLock

Set NumLock status according to Setup

96

Boot Attempt

Set low stack Boot via INT 19h.

C0

Base CPU test

Read/Write CPU registers

C1

Memory PresenceBase memory detect

C2

Early Memory

Board Initialization

C3

Extend Memory

Turn on extended memory, cache initialization

C4

Special Display

First display initialization

C5

Early Shadow

Early shadow enable for fast bootC6

Cache presence

External cache size detection

CF

CMOS Check

CMOS checkup

B0

Spurious

If interrupt occurs in protected mode.

B1

Unclaimed NMI

If unmasked NMI occurs, display Press F1 to disable NMI,
F2 reboot.

BF

Program MCP

To program chipset from defaults values

E1-EF

Setup Pages

E1- Page 1, E2 - Page 2, etc.

FF

Boot

Table 7.

NVMM POST Codes

NVMM POST Codes
Code

Name

Description

0F0h

Identify HW in the system

0F1h

Register the slam tables

0F2h

Early SLAM table

0F3h

COM port initialization

000h

Initialize the hardware devices

001hOverride input parameters, etc. before QUERY

004h

Query the hardware devices

008h

Read SPD & fill in arrays

00Ch

ROM table pointer010h

Initialize the Memory Controller

011h

Program the PLLs

012h

Query after memory PLL has been set

013h

Set Dynamic SPD values

014h

Load MemInfoStruct015h

Load the DIMM geometry (using SPD)016h

Prepare MRS variables

017h

Probe memory geometry018h

PROD_C: PROD f/ Calculated ref manuals

019h

PROD_D: PROD w/ Discrete assembly programming

01Ah

PROD_E: PROD w/ Expandable criteria

01Bh

Send MRS/EMRS configuration cycles

01Ch

Overvoltage handling

01Dh

PROD_F: PROD Final - after MRS/EMRS

020h

PCI Express Initialization

030h

Load Spread Spectrum tables

040h

Set Top-Of-Memory registers

044h

Late SLAM table

048h

Previous Power State SLAM table

04Ch

Hardware Workarounds

050h

Restore, and exit NVMM

054h

Memory Test

EVGA

73

NVMM POST Codes
Code

EVGA

74

Name

Description

0FEh

ERROR handler

0FFh

End of Table

0FFh

Invalid APIC ID

0FEh

CPU Identify/Init failed

0FDhNorth Bridge not supported

0FCh

South Bridge not supported

0FBh

No DIMMs present

0FAh

Invalid DIMM types, SDR/DDR

0F9h

Different voltage levels

0F8h

Invalid REFRESH Rate

0F7h

Invalide memory geometry

0F6h

Slam Engine error

0F5h

Memory Test Error

0F4h

Link Training timeout