MSI Z87M GAMING User Manual

Chapter 1
1-15 Getting Started
Memory
These DIMM slots are used for installing memory modules. For more information on
compatible components, please visit http://www.msi.com/service/test-report/
DIMM1
DIMM2
DIMM3
DIMM4
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 Dual-Channel
mode.
DIMM2
DIMM4
DIMM1
DIMM2
DIMM3
DIMM4
Important
DDR3 memory modules are not interchangeable with DDR2, and the DDR3
standard is not backward compatible. Always install DDR3 memory modules in
DDR3 DIMM slots.
To ensure system stability, memory modules must be of the same type and density
in Dual-Channel mode.
Due to chipset resource usage, the system will only detect up to 31+ GB of memory
(not full 32 GB) when all DIMM slots have 8GB memory modules installed.
•
•
•

MSI Z87M GAMING Specifications

General

Brand	MSI
Model	Z87M GAMING
Category	Motherboard
Language	English

Summary

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Packing Contents

Lists items included in the motherboard package.

Assembly Precautions

Important guidelines for safe and proper motherboard installation.

Motherboard Specifications

Details technical specifications of the Z87M GAMING motherboard.

Connectors Quick Guide

Visual guide to identifying and locating motherboard connectors.

Chapter 2 Quick Installation

CPU Installation

Step-by-step guide for installing the CPU onto the motherboard.

Memory Installation

Instructions for correctly installing RAM modules into the motherboard slots.

Motherboard Installation

Guide on how to mount the motherboard inside the computer case.

Graphics Card Installation

Procedures for installing a graphics card into the PCIe slot.

Chapter 3 BIOS Setup

Entering and Navigating BIOS

Instructions on how to access and navigate the system's BIOS.

BIOS Overview and Operation

Explains the main interface elements, navigation, and hotkeys.

BIOS Settings Configuration

Covers system status, advanced settings, boot, security, and OC options.

Appendix A Realtek Audio

Realtek Audio Software Configuration

Guide to installing and using the Realtek HD Audio Manager software.

Audio Hardware Default Settings

Diagrams showing default audio jack connections for various speaker setups.

Appendix B Intel RAID

Intel RAID Introduction

Overview of RAID technology and its benefits for storage performance.

Configuring RAID Volumes

Steps for using the Intel RAID Option ROM to create RAID arrays.

Managing RAID Volumes

Procedures for deleting RAID volumes and resetting disks to non-RAID.

RAID Array Maintenance

How to handle degraded RAID arrays and system acceleration.