MSI Z87M GAMING User Manual

Chapter 1
1-18Getting Started
Expansion Slots
This motherboard contains numerous slots for expansion cards, such as discrete
graphics or audio cards.
PCI_E1~E4: PCIe Expansion Slots
The PCIe slot supports the PCIe interface expansion card.
PCIe 2.0 x1 Slot
PCIe 3.0 x16 Slot
Important
When adding or removing expansion cards, always turn o󰘯 the power supply and
unplug the power supply power cable from the power outlet. Read the expansion
card’s documentation to check for any necessary additional hardware or software
changes.

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.