EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard User Manual

1. Einleitung

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard. Designed for high-performance computing, this EATX motherboard supports Intel Core 7th Generation Processors for the LGA 2066 socket and is compatible with Windows 10 64-bit operating systems. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.

Figure 1.1: EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard Manual Cover

2. Packungsinhalt

Verify that all items listed below are present in your product package. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact EVGA customer support.

• EVGA Driver Installation Disc with EVGA E-LEET X
• Rear Case I/O Panel
• 3-Way SLI® Bridge
• 2 SATA 6G Data Cables
• ProbeIT adapter
• Socket 20XX Backplate (optional)
• Vertical adapter for M.2 Key-E
• 2x Thermal Pad for M.2 SSDs
• Visual Guide / Bench Stand (incl. standoffs and screws)
• USB 2.0 Header Bracket
• Fallabzeichen
• Handbuch

Figure 2.1: Included accessories for the EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard.

3. Motherboard-Layout

The EVGA X299 Dark motherboard features an EATX form factor, providing extensive connectivity and expansion options. Familiarize yourself with the layout to ensure correct component installation.

3.1. Zu Endeview

Abbildung 3.1: Draufsicht view of the EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard, highlighting key component placement.

3.2. Key Components and Connectors

• CPU-Sockel: LGA 2066 for Intel Core 7th Generation Processors.
• Speichersteckplätze: 4 DIMM slots supporting Quad Channel DDR4 memory up to 64GB (Skylake-X) or 32GB (Kaby Lake-X).
• PCIe-Steckplätze: Multiple PCIe slots for graphics cards and expansion cards. Note the small switches near the top corner that enable/disable individual PCI slots.
• Lagerung: 8 SATA 3/6 Gbit/s ports (6 from X299 PCH, 2 from ASMedia ASM1061), 1 M.2 Key-M 110mm slot, 1 M.2 Key-M 80mm slot, 1 M.2 Key-E 32mm slot, and 2 U.2 ports.
• USB-Anschlüsse: 4 USB 2.0 ports (2 internal headers), 8 USB 3.0 ports (6 rear panel, 2 from 1 internal header), and 2 USB 3.1 ports (1x Type-A, 1x Type-C on rear panel).
• Hinteres I/O-Panel: Includes USB ports, audio jacks, Ethernet, and other connectivity.

Abbildung 3.2: Schräg view of the EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard, showcasing the rear I/O panel and various connectors.

Abbildung 3.3: Schräg view of the EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard, highlighting the M.2 cooler and CPU socket area.

4. Einrichtung und Installation

Follow these steps carefully to install your EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard and its components.

4.1. Vorbereitung des Motherboards

1. Auspacken: Carefully remove the motherboard from its packaging. Place it on an anti-static surface or use the included Visual Guide / Bench Stand.
2. CPU-Installation: Open the LGA 2066 socket lever. Align the CPU with the socket, ensuring the gold triangle on the CPU matches the indicator on the socket. Gently place the CPU into the socket without forcing it. Close the lever to secure the CPU.
3. Installation des CPU-Kühlers: Install your compatible CPU cooler according to its manufacturer's instructions. If using a custom backplate, utilize the optional Socket 20XX Backplate provided.
4. RAM-Installation: Open the clips on the DDR4 DIMM slots. Align the memory modules with the slots, ensuring the notch on the module matches the key in the slot. Press down firmly on both ends until the clips snap into place. Refer to your cooler's clearance for optimal slot usage.

4.2. Installation von Speichermedien

1. M.2 SSDs: Locate the M.2 slots. Remove any protective covers or screws. Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle and secure it with the provided screw. Apply the included thermal pads for optimal cooling, especially for PCIe 4 M.2 drives. If using a Key-E M.2 device, use the vertical adapter.
2. SATA-Laufwerke: Connect your SATA storage devices (HDDs/SSDs) to the SATA 6Gbit/s ports using the provided SATA data cables. Ensure power cables are also connected from your power supply.
3. U.2 Drives: Connect U.2 drives to the dedicated U.2 ports if applicable.

4.3. Stromanschlüsse

Connect the 24-pin ATX power connector and the 8-pin CPU power connectors from your power supply to the corresponding ports on the motherboard. Ensure all connections are firm.

4.4. Expansion Cards and Peripherals

1. Grafikkarten: Insert your graphics card(s) into the appropriate PCIe x16 slots. If installing multiple graphics cards for SLI, use the provided 3-Way SLI® Bridge. Ensure the PCI slot switches are enabled for the slots you intend to use.
2. Andere PCIe-Karten: Install any other PCIe expansion cards as needed.
3. Frontplattenanschlüsse: Connect your case's front panel headers (power button, reset button, USB, audio) to the corresponding pins on the motherboard. Use the USB 2.0 Header Bracket for additional USB 2.0 ports if required.

5. Bedienungsanleitung

Once your system is assembled, follow these steps for initial boot-up and configuration.

5.1. Erster Start und BIOS-Einrichtung

1. Einschalten: Schließen Sie Monitor, Tastatur und Maus an. Schalten Sie Ihr System ein.
2. Zugriff auf BIOS/UEFI: Drücken Sie während des Startvorgangs wiederholt die Taste DEL key (or as indicated on screen) to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility. The EVGA UEFI menus are designed to be clear and intuitive.
3. Grundkonfiguration: Set the correct date and time. Verify that all installed components (CPU, RAM, storage) are detected correctly. Configure boot order to prioritize your operating system installation media.
4. Lüfterdrehzahlregelung: Navigate to the fan control section in the BIOS to set fan speeds for onboard fans (M.2 slots and VRM fans) to prevent excessive noise.
5. Übertakten (optional): The BIOS offers optional overclocking features that can actively measure system capabilities to maximize performance. Proceed with caution and consult advanced guides if attempting overclocking.
6. Speichern und schließen: Speichern Sie Ihre Änderungen und verlassen Sie das BIOS. Das System wird neu gestartet.

5.2. Installation des Betriebssystems und der Treiber

1. Betriebssysteminstallation: Install your preferred operating system (e.g., Windows 10 64-bit) following its installation prompts.
2. Treiberinstallation: After OS installation, install all necessary drivers from the EVGA Driver Installation Disc or download the latest drivers from the official EVGA website. This includes chipset, audio, network, and graphics drivers.

6. Wartung

Regelmäßige Wartung trägt zur Langlebigkeit und zum stabilen Betrieb Ihres Motherboards bei.

• Staubentfernung: Periodically clean dust from the motherboard and components using compressed air. Pay attention to fan vents, especially for the M.2 cooling system and VRM fans.
• BIOS-Updates: Check the EVGA website regularly for BIOS updates. BIOS updates can improve stability, add new features, or fix bugs. Follow the update instructions carefully to avoid system damage.
• Kabelmanagement: Ensure internal cables are neatly routed to promote good airflow within the case.

7. Fehlerbehebung

Dieser Abschnitt bietet Lösungen für häufig auftretende Probleme.

7.1. Kein Strom / Kein POST

• Stromanschlüsse: Überprüfen Sie unbedingt, ob alle Stromkabel (24-Pin ATX, 8-Pin CPU) fest mit dem Motherboard und dem Netzteil verbunden sind.
• CPU/RAM: Ensure the CPU is correctly seated and the CPU cooler is properly installed. Verify that RAM modules are fully seated in their slots.
• PCI Slot Switches: If a graphics card or other PCIe device is not detected, check the small white switches near the top corner of the motherboard. These switches enable/disable individual PCI slots. Ensure the relevant slots are enabled.
• CMOS-Reset: If the system fails to boot or exhibits unusual behavior, perform a CMOS reset. This can typically be done by pressing a dedicated button on the motherboard or by removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes.
• BIOS Chip: In rare cases, a faulty BIOS chip can prevent booting. If experiencing persistent boot issues, verify the BIOS chip is securely seated and undamaged.

7.2. Komponente nicht erkannt

• Lagerung: Ensure SATA data and power cables are correctly connected. For M.2 SSDs, verify they are properly seated and secured. Check BIOS settings to ensure storage controllers are enabled.
• USB-Geräte: If a USB device is not detected, try a different USB port. Ensure internal USB headers are correctly connected to the front panel.

8. Spezifikationen

Below are the technical specifications for the EVGA X299 Dark Motherboard (Model 151-SX-E299-KR).

9. Garantie und Support

EVGA products are backed by a limited warranty. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the official EVGA website or the warranty card included with your product. For technical support, driver downloads, and further product information, visit the EVGA support portal.

You can also scan the QR code below for quick access to product details and support resources:

EVGA X299 Dark Product Page

Figure 9.1: EVGA X299 Dark Manual Cover, showing the QR code for additional information.