MSI H97 Gaming 3 Manual

Chapter 1
1-7Getting Started

Connectors Quick Guide
CPUFAN1
PCI_E1
PCI_E2
PCI_E3
PCI_E4
PCI1
JPWR1
SATA1_2
SATA3_4
SATA5
JPWR2CPU Socket
BackPanel
JUSB3
M2_1
JTPM1
DIMM1DIMM2DIMM3DIMM4
CPUFAN2
SYSFAN3
JCI1
JFP1JFP2
JUSB1JUSB2
SYSFAN2
SYSFAN1
JAUD1
JBAT
SATA6
JLPT1
JCOM1
AUDPWR1
AUD_SW1
PCI2
PCI3
JTBT1*
* JTBT1 is used to connect a specific card. 

Chapter 1
1-8Getting Started

Connectors Reference Guide
Port Name Port Type Page
AUD_SW1  Audio Power Switch  1-2
8
AUDPWR1  Direct Audio Power Connector  1-2
4
Back Panel    1-9
CPU  LGA1150 CPU Socket  1-1
1
CPUFAN1~2,SYSFAN1~3  Fan Power Connectors  1-2
1
DIMM1~4  Memory Slots  1-15
JAUD1  Front Panel Audio Connector  1-2
4
JBAT1  Clear CMOS Jumper  1-2
7
JCI1  Chassis Intrusion Connector  1-2
6
JCOM1  Serial Port Connector  1-2
6
JFP1, JFP2  System Panel Connectors  1-2
2
JLPT1  Parallel Port...

Chapter 1
1-9Getting Started

Back Panel Quick Guide
PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Combo Port
A combination of PS/2® mouse/keyboard DIN connector for a PS/2® mouse/keyboard.
USB 2.0 Port
The USB 2.0 port is for attaching USB 2.0 devices such as keyboard, mouse, or other USB 2.0-compatible devices.
USB 3.0 Port
USB 3.0 port is backward-compatible with USB 2.0 devices. It supports data transfer rate up to 5 Gbit/s (SuperSpeed).
 Important
In order to use USB 3.0 devices, you must connect to a USB 3.0 port. If a USB...

Chapter 1
1-10Getting Started

HDMI Port 
®
The High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an all-digital audio-video interface that is capable of transmitting uncompressed streams. HDMI supports all types of TV formats, including standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. 
DisplayPort
DisplayPort is a digital display interface standard. This connector is used to connect a monitor with DisplayPort inputs.
VGA Port
The DB15-pin female connector...

Chapter 1
1-11Getting Started

CPU (Central Processing Unit)
 Important
Overheating
Overheating can seriously damage the CPU and motherboard. Always make sure the cooling fans work properly to protect the CPU from overheating. Be sure to apply an even layer of thermal paste (or thermal tape) between the CPU and the heatsink to enhance heat dissipation.
Replacing the CPU
When replacing the CPU, always turn off the system’s power supply and unplug the power supply’s power cord to ensure the safety of the...

Chapter 1
1-12Getting Started

CPU & Heatsink Installation
When installing a CPU, always remember to install a CPU heatsink. A CPU heatsink is necessary to prevent overheating and maintain system stability. Follow the steps below to ensure correct CPU and heatsink installation. Wrong installation can damage both the CPU and the motherboard.
1. Push the load lever down to unclip it and lift to the fully open position .
2.  The load plate will automatically lift up as the load lever is pushed to  the...

Chapter 1
1-13Getting Started

3. Align the notches with the socket alignment keys. Lower the CPU str aight down, without tilting or sliding the CPU in the socket. Inspect the CPU to check if it is properly seated in the socket.
4.  Close and slide the load plate under the retention knob. Close and en gage the 
load lever. 
Alignment Key
CPU notches
Retention knob
5. When you press down the load lever the PnP cap will automatically p op up from the CPU socket. Do not discard the PnP cap. Always replace...

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1-14Getting Started

 Important
Confirm that the CPU heatsink has formed a tight seal with the CPU before booting your system.
Whenever the CPU is not installed, always protect the CPU socket pins by covering the socket with the plastic cap.
If you purchased a separate CPU and heatsink/ cooler, Please refer to the documentation in the heatsink/ cooler package for more details about installation.
•
•
• 7. Locate the CPU fan connector on the motherboard.
8.  Place the heatsink on the motherboard...

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1-15Getting Started

Memory
These DIMM slots are used for installing memory modules.
DIMM1DIMM2DIMM3DIMM4
 Video Demonstration
Watch the video to learn how to install memories at the address below.
http://youtu.be/76yLtJaKlCQ
Dual-Channel mode Population Rule
In Dual-Channel mode, the memory modules can transmit and receive data with two data bus channels simultaneously. Enabling Dual-Channel mode can enhance system performance. The following illustrations explain the population rules for...

Chapter 1
1-16Getting Started

Mounting Screw Holes
When installing the motherboard, first install the necessary mounting stands required for an motherboard on the mounting plate in your computer case. If there is an I/O back plate that came with the computer case, please replace it with the I/O backplate that came with the motherboard package. The I/O backplate should snap easily into the computer case without the need for any screws. Align the mounting plate’s mounting stands with the screw holes on...