Intel Dx79To Desktop Motherboard Blkdx79To Users Manual Intel® Board Product Guide

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Intel® Desktop Board DX79TO
Product Guide
Order Number: G44000-001

Revision History
Revision
-001

Revision History
First release of the Intel® Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Date
October 2011

Disclaimer
INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT IS PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH INTEL® PRODUCTS. NO LICENSE,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, BY ESTOPPEL OR OTHERWISE, TO ANY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS IS
GRANTED BY THIS DOCUMENT. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN INTEL’S TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE FOR
SUCH PRODUCTS, INTEL ASSUMES NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER, AND INTEL DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED WARRANTY, RELATING TO SALE AND/OR USE OF INTEL PRODUCTS INCLUDING LIABILITY OR
WARRANTIES RELATING TO FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, MERCHANTABILITY, OR INFRINGEMENT
OF ANY PATENT, COPYRIGHT OR OTHER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHT. Intel products are not intended
for use in medical, life saving, or life sustaining applications. Intel may make changes to specifications and
product descriptions at any time, without notice.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO may contain design defects or errors known as errata which may cause the
product to deviate from published specifications. Current characterized errata are available on request.
Contact your local Intel sales office or your distributor to obtain the latest specifications and before placing
your product order.
Copies of documents which have an ordering number and are referenced in this document, or other Intel
literature, may be obtained from Intel Corporation by going to the World Wide Web site at:
http://www.intel.com/ or by calling 1-800-548-4725.

Intel, Intel Core, and Xeon are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
* Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.
Copyright © 2011, Intel Corporation. All rights reserved.

Preface
This Product Guide gives information about board layout, component installation, BIOS
update, and regulatory requirements for Intel® Desktop Board DX79TO.

Intended Audience
The Product Guide is intended for technically qualified personnel. It is not intended for
general audiences.

Use Only for Intended Applications
All Intel Desktop Boards are evaluated as Information Technology Equipment (I.T.E.)
for use in personal computers (PC) for installation in homes, offices, schools, computer
rooms, and similar locations. The suitability of this product for other PC or embedded
non-PC applications or other environments, such as medical, industrial, alarm systems,
test equipment, etc. may not be supported without further evaluation by Intel.

Document Organization
The chapters in this Product Guide are arranged as follows:
1

Desktop Board Features: a summary of product features

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components: instructions on how to install
the Desktop Board and other hardware components

Updating the BIOS: instructions on how to update the BIOS

Configuring for RAID: information about configuring your system for RAID

Error Messages and Indicators: information about BIOS error messages and beep
codes

Regulatory Compliance: describes the board’s adherence to safety standards and
EMC regulations and its product certifications

Conventions
The following conventions are used in this manual:

CAUTION
Cautions warn the user about how to prevent damage to hardware or loss of data.

NOTE
Notes call attention to important information.

iii

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Terminology
The table below gives descriptions of some common terms used in the product guide.
Term

Description

Gigabyte (1,073,741,824 bytes)

GHz

Gigahertz (one billion hertz)

Kilobyte (1024 bytes)

Megabyte (1,048,576 bytes)

Megabit (1,048,576 bits)

MHz

Megahertz (one million hertz)

Contents
1 Desktop Board Features
Supported Operating Systems..............................................................................11
Desktop Board Components.................................................................................12
Processor..........................................................................................................14
System Memory.................................................................................................15
Memory Configurations................................................................................16
®
Intel X79 Express Chipset..................................................................................17
USB Support .....................................................................................................17
USB 3.0 ....................................................................................................17
USB 2.0 ....................................................................................................17
Serial ATA.........................................................................................................17
Audio Subsystem ...............................................................................................18
LAN Subsystem .................................................................................................18
Legacy I/O ........................................................................................................19
Expandability.....................................................................................................19
BIOS ................................................................................................................20
Serial ATA and IDE Auto Configuration...........................................................20
PCI and PCI Express* Auto Configuration .......................................................20
Security Passwords .....................................................................................20
Back to BIOS Button ...................................................................................21
Hardware Management .......................................................................................21
Hardware Monitoring and Fan Speed Control ..................................................21
Chassis Intrusion........................................................................................22
Power Management ............................................................................................22
Software Support .......................................................................................22
ACPI..................................................................................................22
Hardware Support ......................................................................................22
Power Connectors ...............................................................................22
Fan Headers .......................................................................................23
LAN Wake Capabilities..........................................................................23
Instantly Available PC Technology..........................................................23
+5 V Standby Power Indicator...............................................................24
Wake from USB ..................................................................................25
PME# Signal Wake-up Support..............................................................25
WAKE# Signal Wake-up Support ...........................................................25
Wake from Consumer IR ......................................................................25
Onboard System Control Switches ........................................................................25
Power Switch .............................................................................................26
Reset Switch..............................................................................................26
System Initialization/Board Status LEDs ................................................................27
System Initialization LEDs............................................................................28
Status LEDs ...............................................................................................29
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) ............................................................................29
Speaker............................................................................................................29
Battery .............................................................................................................30
Real-Time Clock.................................................................................................30

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

2 Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components
Before You Begin ...............................................................................................31
Installation Precautions.......................................................................................32
Prevent Power Supply Overload ....................................................................32
Observe Safety and Regulatory Requirements.................................................32
Installing the I/O Shield ......................................................................................33
Installing the Desktop Board................................................................................34
Installing a Processor .........................................................................................35
Installing a Processor Fan Heat Sink ..............................................................39
Installing and Removing Memory..........................................................................40
Installing DIMMs ........................................................................................40
Removing DIMMs........................................................................................42
Installing and Removing PCI Express x16 Add-in Cards ...........................................42
Installing PCI Express x16 Graphics Cards......................................................42
Removing a PCI Express x16 Add-in Card.......................................................43
Installing Linked PCI Express x16 Graphics Cards............................................44
Connecting SATA Cables .....................................................................................46
Connecting to the Internal Headers and Connectors ................................................47
Front Panel Audio Header ............................................................................48
Chassis Intrusion Header .............................................................................48
IEEE 1394a Header .....................................................................................48
Consumer IR (CIR) Headers .........................................................................49
USB 2.0 Headers ........................................................................................50
Front Panel Header .....................................................................................50
Alternate Front Panel Power LED Header ........................................................51
Connecting to the Audio System...........................................................................51
Connecting Chassis Fan and Power Supply Cables...................................................52
Connecting Chassis Fan Cables .....................................................................52
Connecting Power Supply Cables ..................................................................53
Setting the BIOS Configuration Jumper .................................................................54
Clearing Passwords ............................................................................................55
Replacing the Battery .........................................................................................56

3 Updating the BIOS
Updating the BIOS with the Intel® Express BIOS Update Utility.................................63
Updating the BIOS Using the F7 Function Key ........................................................64
Updating the BIOS with the Intel® Flash Memory Update Utility ................................64
Recovering the BIOS ..........................................................................................65

4 Configuring for RAID Using Intel® Rapid Storage Technology
Configuring the BIOS ..................................................................................67
Creating Your RAID Set ...............................................................................67
Loading the Intel RST RAID Drivers and Software (Required for
Microsoft Windows XP Installation) ..........................................................68
Setting Up a “RAID Ready” System ...............................................................68

A Error Messages and Indicators
BIOS Error Codes...............................................................................................69
BIOS Error Messages ..........................................................................................70
Port 80h POST Codes..........................................................................................71

Contents

B Regulatory Compliance
Safety Standards ...............................................................................................75
Battery Caution ..........................................................................................75
European Union Declaration of Conformity Statement..............................................76
Product Ecology Statements ................................................................................77
Recycling Considerations .............................................................................77
China RoHS ...............................................................................................80
EMC Regulations ................................................................................................81
FCC Declaration of Conformity ......................................................................81
Canadian Department of Communications Compliance Statement ......................82
Japan VCCI Statement ................................................................................82
Korea Class B Statement .............................................................................83
Ensure Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Compliance ..................................83
Product Certifications..........................................................................................84
Board-Level Certifications ............................................................................84
Chassis- and Component-Level Certifications ..................................................85
ENERGY STAR*, e-Standby, and ErP Compliance ....................................................85

Figures
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Components........................................................12
Memory Channel and DIMM Configuration ........................................................16
LAN Connector LEDs .....................................................................................19
Location of the Back to BIOS Button................................................................21
Location of the Standby Power Indicator ..........................................................24
Onboard System Control Switches ..................................................................26
Location of the Diagnostic/Status LEDs ............................................................27
Installing the I/O Shield ................................................................................33
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Mounting Screw Hole Locations ..............................34
Unlatch the Socket Levers .............................................................................35
Open the Load Plate......................................................................................36
Install the Processor .....................................................................................37
Close the Load Plate .....................................................................................38
Installing a Fan Heat Sink and Connecting the Cable to the
Processor Fan Header....................................................................................39
Installing a DIMM .........................................................................................41
Installing a PCI Express x16 Card ...................................................................43
Removing a PCI Express x16 Card ..................................................................44
Installing Linked PCI Express Graphics Cards....................................................45
Connecting the Serial ATA Cables....................................................................46
Internal Headers ..........................................................................................47
Back Panel Audio Connectors .........................................................................51
Location of the Chassis Fan Headers................................................................52
Connecting Power Supply Cables ....................................................................53
Location of the BIOS Configuration Jumper Block ..............................................54
Removing the Battery ...................................................................................61
POST Code LED Display .................................................................................71
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO China RoHS Material Self Declaration Table..............80

vii

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Tables
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
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20.
21.

viii

Feature Summary.......................................................................................... 9
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Components........................................................13
LAN Connector LEDs .....................................................................................19
System Initialization LEDs..............................................................................28
Status LEDs .................................................................................................29
Front Panel Audio Header Signal Names...........................................................48
Chassis Intrusion Header Signal Names ...........................................................48
IEEE 1394a Header Signal Names ...................................................................48
Front Panel CIR Receiver (Input) Header Signal Names ......................................49
Back Panel CIR Header Emitter (Output) Header Signal Names ...........................49
USB 2.0 Header Signal Names........................................................................50
Front Panel Header Signal Names ...................................................................50
Alternate Front Panel Power LED Header Signal Names ......................................51
Jumper Settings for the BIOS Setup Program Modes..........................................55
BIOS Beep Codes .........................................................................................69
Front-panel Power LED Blink Codes .................................................................69
BIOS Error Messages ....................................................................................70
Port 80h POST Codes ....................................................................................72
Safety Standards..........................................................................................75
EMC Regulations...........................................................................................81
Regulatory Compliance Marks.........................................................................84

1 Desktop Board Features
This chapter briefly describes the features of Intel® Desktop Board DX79TO. Table 1
summarizes the major features of the Desktop Board.
Table 1. Feature Summary
Form Factor

ATX (304.80 millimeters [12.00 inches] x 243.84 millimeters
[9.60 inches])

Processor

Support for Intel® Core™ i7 and Intel® Xeon® processors in the
LGA2011 package with:
• Two PCI Express* 3.0 x16 graphics interfaces (x16 electrical)
• Quad-channel memory interface

Main Memory

Eight 240-pin DDR3 SDRAM Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM)
sockets arranged in four channels with support for the following:
• DDR3 2400 MHz, DDR3 2133 MHz, DDR3 1866 MHz, DDR3
1600 MHz, DDR3 1333 MHz, and DDR3 1066 MHz DIMMs
•

ECC and non-ECC memory

• 1 Gb, 2 Gb, and 4 Gb memory technology
• XMP memory
• 1.35 V low voltage memory (JEDEC standard)
• Up to 64 GB of system memory using 4 Gb memory technology
• Manual memory overclocking (voltage, clock, and ratio)
Chipset

Intel® X79 Express Chipset consisting of the Intel® X79 Platform
Controller Hub (PCH)

Graphics

Support for multiple PCI Express* graphics cards including linked cards
using Nvidia* SLI* technology and AMD* CrossFire X* technology

Audio

• Independent multi-streaming 6-channel (5.1) audio and 2-channel
audio subsystem, featuring:
―

Intel® High Definition Audio interface

―

RealTek* ALC892 codec

• HD Audio front panel header
Expansion
Capabilities

• Two PCI Express 3.0 x16 connectors
• Three PCI Express 2.0 x1 connectors
• One PCI* bus connector

Legacy I/O Support

Nuvoton* Legacy I/O Controller that provides Consumer Infrared (CIR)
support
continued

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Table 1. Feature Summary (continued)
Peripheral
Interfaces

• Two USB 3.0 ports routed to the back panel
• Fourteen USB 2.0 ports:
― Six ports routed to the back panel
― Eight ports routed to four onboard USB headers
• Two IEEE 1394a ports:
― One port routed to the back panel
― One port routed to an IEEE 1394a header
• Six Serial ATA (SATA) channels through the Intel X79 PCH:
― Two onboard 6.0 Gb/s SATA channels (blue connectors)
― Four onboard 3.0 Gb/s SATA channels (black connectors)

LAN Support

Gigabit (10/100/1000 Mb/s) LAN subsystem using an Intel® 82579LM
Gigabit Ethernet Controller

BIOS

• Intel® BIOS resident in an SPI Flash device
• Support for Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI), Plug
and Play, and SMBIOS
• Fast Boot
• Support for advanced overclocking

Power Management

• Support for the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI)
specification
• Suspend to RAM (STR)
• Wake on USB, PCI, PCI Express, LAN, CIR, and front panel
• ENERGY STAR* capable

Hardware
Management

• Hardware monitoring and fan control through the Nuvoton I/O
controller
• Voltage sense to detect out of range power supply voltages
• Thermal sense to detect out of range thermal values
• Four fan headers using PWM control
• Four fan sense inputs used to monitor fan activity
• Fan speed control using voltage control (4-pin fan headers for
processor, front, rear, and auxiliary fans) with selectable support in
the BIOS for 3-wire fans
• Support for the Platform Environmental Control Interface (PECI)

Desktop Board Features

Supported Operating Systems
The Desktop Board provides full support for the following operating systems:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft

Windows* 7 Ultimate (64-bit and 32-bit editions)
Windows 7 Professional (64-bit and 32-bit editions)
Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit and 32-bit editions)
Windows 7 Starter (64-bit and 32-bit editions)
Windows Vista* Ultimate (64-bit and 32-bit editions)
Windows Vista Business (64-bit and 32-bit editions)
Windows Vista Home Premium (64-bit and 32-bit editions)
Windows Vista Home Basic (64-bit and 32-bit editions)

The Desktop Board provides minimal BIOS and driver support for the following
operating systems:
•
•
•
•

Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft

Windows* XP Home
Windows XP Professional
Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Desktop Board Components
Figure 1 shows the approximate location of the major components on Intel Desktop
Board DX79TO.

Figure 1. Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Components

Desktop Board Features

Table 2. Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Components
Label

Description

Front panel audio header

PCI Express x1 connector

Speaker

PCI bus connector

PCI Express 3.0 x16 connector

PCI Express x1 connector

PCI Express 3.0 x16 connector

Rear chassis fan header

Battery

Back panel connectors

Processor fan header

DIMM 1 socket

DIMM 5 socket

DIMM 2 socket

DIMM 6 socket

Processor socket

12 V processor core voltage connector (2 x 4 pin)

DIMM 8 socket

DIMM 4 socket

DIMM 7 socket

DIMM 3 socket

Main power connector (2 x 12 pin)

Front chassis fan header

Serial ATA connectors (6 Gb/s)

Serial ATA connectors (3 Gb/s)

Intel X79 Express Chipset

USB 2.0 front panel headers

Back panel CIR transmitter (output) header

BIOS configuration jumper block

Power fault LED

Alternate front panel power LED header

Front panel CIR receiver (input) header

Voltage measurement test points

Front panel header

POST code LED display

IEEE 1394a header

Reset button

Power button

Chassis intrusion header

Auxiliary chassis fan header

System initialization/status LEDs

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Online Support
For more information on Intel Desktop Board DX79TO consult the following online
resources:
• Intel Desktop Board DX79TO

http://www.intel.com/products/motherboard/index.htm

• Desktop Board Support

http://www.intel.com/p/en_US/support?iid=hdr+support

• Available configurations for
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO

http://ark.intel.com

• Supported processors

http://processormatch.intel.com

• Chipset information

http://www.intel.com/products/desktop/chipsets/index.htm

• BIOS and driver updates

http://downloadcenter.intel.com/

• Integration information

http://www.intel.com/support/go/buildit

Processor
CAUTION
Failure to use an appropriate power supply and/or not connecting the 12 V (2 x 4 pin)
power connector to the Desktop Board may result in damage to the board, or the
system may not function properly.
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO supports an Intel processor in the LGA2011 package.
Processors are not included with the Desktop Board and must be purchased
separately. The processor connects to the Desktop Board through the LGA1366
socket.
Go to the following page or link for more information about:
•
•

Instructions on installing or upgrading the processor, page 35 in Chapter 2
Supported processors for Intel Desktop Board DX79TO,
http://processormatch.intel.com

Desktop Board Features

System Memory
NOTE
To be fully compliant with all applicable Intel ® SDRAM memory specifications, the
board should be populated with DIMMs that support the Serial Presence Detect (SPD)
data structure. If your memory modules do not support SPD, you will see a
notification to this effect on the screen at power up. The BIOS will attempt to
configure the memory controller for normal operation.
The Desktop Board supports the following memory and interface:
•
•
•
•

•
•
•
•
•
•

Eight 240-pin Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) SDRAM Dual Inline Memory Module
(DIMM) connectors with gold-plated contacts arranged in four channels
2400/2133/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM DIMM
XMP performance profile support for memory speeds above 1600 MHz
Full support for memory overclocking (see
www.intel.com/support/motherboards/desktop/sb/CS-031689.htm for information
on overclocking)
Support for single-channel configurations and dual-, tri-, and quad-channel memory
interleaving
Unbuffered, non-registered single or double-sided DIMMs with a voltage rating of
1.65 V or less including support for 1.35 V (JEDEC specification) memory
ECC and non-ECC memory (requires a processor that supports ECC memory)
Serial Presence Detect
Minimum total system memory of 1 GB
Up to 64 GB maximum total system memory

NOTE
32-bit operating systems are limited to a maximum of 4 GB of memory. The
operating system may report less than 4 GB because of the memory used by
add-in PCI Express graphics cards.

CAUTION
1.5 V is the recommended and default setting for DDR3 memory voltage. The other
memory voltage settings in the BIOS Setup program are provided for performance
tuning purposes only. Altering the memory voltage may (i) reduce system stability
and the useful life of the system, memory, and processor; (ii) cause the processor and
other system components to fail; (iii) cause reductions in system performance; (iv)
cause additional heat or other damage; and (v) affect system data integrity. Intel has
not tested and does not warranty the operation of the processor beyond its
specifications. For information on the processor warranty, refer to
http://www.intel.com/support/processors/sb/CS-020033.htm?wapkw=(processor+warranty).

Intel assumes no responsibility that the memory installed on the desktop board, if
used with altered clock frequencies and/or voltages, will be fit for any particular
purpose. Check with the memory manufacturer for warranty terms and additional
details.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Memory Configurations
The Intel Core i7 and Intel Xeon processors support the following types of memory
organization:
•

Quad-channel (Interleaved) mode. Quad-channel mode offers the highest
throughput for real world applications.
• Tri-channel (Interleaved) mode. Tri-channel mode is enabled when the installed
memory capacities of any three DIMM channels are equal.
• Dual-channel (Interleaved) mode. Dual-channel mode is enabled when the
installed memory capacities of both DIMM channels are equal. Technology and
device width can vary from one channel to the other but the installed memory
capacity for each channel must be equal. If different speed DIMMs are used
between channels, the slowest memory timing will be used.
• Single-channel (Asymmetric) mode. This mode is equivalent to single-channel
bandwidth operation for real world applications. This mode is used when only a
single DIMM is installed or the channel memory capacities are unequal.
Technology and device width can vary from one channel to the other. If different
speed DIMMs are used between channels, the slowest memory timing will be used.
Figure 2 shows the board’s memory channel and DIMM configuration

Figure 2. Memory Channel and DIMM Configuration
For information on installing memory, refer to page 40 in Chapter 2.

Desktop Board Features

Intel® X79 Express Chipset
The Intel X79 Express Chipset consisting of the Intel X79 Platform Controller Hub
(PCH) provides interfaces to the processor and the USB, SATA, LAN, PCI, and PCI
Express interfaces. The PCH is the centralized controller for the board’s I/O paths.
Go to the following link for more information about the Intel X79 Express Chipset:
http://developer.intel.com/products/chipsets/index.htm

USB Support
The Desktop Board supports USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 devices.

USB 3.0
USB 3.0 is supported with two USB 3.0 ports (blue) on the back panel. USB 3.0 ports
are backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 devices. The USB 3.0 ports are
SuperSpeed, high-speed, full-speed, and low-speed capable. USB 3.0 support requires
both an operating system and drivers that fully support USB 3.0 transfer rates.

USB 2.0
There are 14 USB 2.0 ports (six ports routed to back panel connectors (black) and
eight ports routed to three onboard headers (black)). The USB 2.0 ports are highspeed, full-speed, and low-speed capable. USB 2.0 support requires both an operating
system and drivers that fully support USB 2.0 transfer rates.

Serial ATA
The board provides two 6.0 Gb/s Serial ATA (SATA) channels (blue connectors) and
four 3.0 Gb/s SATA channels (black connectors).
The four 3.0 Gb/s SATA channels support the following RAID (Redundant Array of
Independent Drives) levels:
•
•
•
•

RAID
RAID
RAID
RAID

0 - data striping
1 - data mirroring
0+1 (or RAID 10) - data striping and data mirroring
5 - distributed parity

For information on configuring your system for RAID using Intel® Rapid Storage
Technology (Intel® RST) see Chapter 4.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Audio Subsystem
The onboard audio subsystem consists of the following components:
•
•

Intel X79 Express Chipset
RealTek ALC892 codec

The subsystem has the following headers and connectors:
•
•

Three back panel analog audio connectors
High Definition (HD) Audio front panel header that provides mic in and line out
signals for front panel audio connectors

The audio subsystem supports the following features:
•

•
•

Advanced jack sense for the back panel analog audio jacks that enables the audio
codec to recognize the device that is connected to an audio port. The back panel
audio jacks are capable of retasking according to the user’s definition, or can be
automatically switched depending on the recognized device type.
A signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of 95 dB.
Independent multi-streaming 6-channel (5.1) audio (using the back panel audio
connectors) and 2-channel audio (using the Intel High Definition Audio front panel
header).

Go to the following pages for more information about:
•
•
•

The location of the onboard audio headers, Figure 20 on page 47
The signal names for the Intel High Definition Audio front panel header, page 48
The back panel audio connectors, Figure 21 on page 51

LAN Subsystem
The board’s Gigabit (10/100/1000 Mb/s) LAN subsystem includes:
•
•
•

Intel X79 Express Chipset
Intel 82579LM Gigabit Ethernet LAN Controller
An RJ-45 LAN connector with integrated status LEDs

The subsystem features:
•
•
•
•
•

CSMA/CD protocol engine
LAN connect interface between the Intel PCH and the LAN controllers
PCI bus power management
ACPI technology support
LAN wake capabilities

Go to the following link for information about LAN software and drivers:
http://www.intel.com/products/motherboard/index.htm

Desktop Board Features

Two LEDs are built into the RJ-45 LAN connector located on the back panel (see
Figure 3). These LEDs indicate the status of the LAN.

Figure 3. LAN Connector LEDs
Table 3 describes the LED states when the board is powered up and the LAN
subsystem is operating.
Table 3. LAN Connector LEDs
LED

LED Color

LED State

Indicates

Green

Off

LAN link is not established

LAN link is established

Blinking

LAN activity is occurring

N/A

Off

10 Mb/s data rate

Green

100 Mb/s data rate

Yellow

1000 Mb/s data rate

Legacy I/O
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO includes an I/O controller that provides the following
legacy I/O features:
•
•
•
•

Consumer Infrared (CIR) support
Low pin count (LPC) interface
Intelligent power management, including a programmable wake up event interface
PCI power management support

Expandability
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO provides the following expansion capability:
•
•
•

Two PCI Express 3.0 x16 connectors. Operation at PCI Express 3.0 speeds requires
a processor that supports the PCI Express 3.0 Specification.
Three PCI Express 2.0 x1 connectors
One PCI bus connector

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

BIOS
The BIOS provides the Power-On Self-Test (POST), the BIOS Setup program, and the
PCI/PCI Express and IDE auto-configuration utilities. The BIOS is stored in the Serial
Peripheral Interface (SPI) Flash device.
The BIOS can be updated by following the instructions on page 63 in Chapter 3.

Serial ATA and IDE Auto Configuration
If you install a Serial ATA or IDE device (such as a hard drive) in your computer, the
auto-configuration utility in the BIOS automatically detects and configures the device
for your computer. You do not need to run the BIOS Setup program after installing a
Serial ATA or IDE device. You can override the auto-configuration options by
specifying manual configuration in the BIOS Setup program.

PCI and PCI Express* Auto Configuration
If you install a PCI/PCI Express add-in card in your computer, the PCI/PCI Express
auto-configuration utility in the BIOS automatically detects and configures the
resources (IRQs, DMA channels, and I/O space) for that add-in card. You do not need
to run the BIOS Setup program after you install a PCI/PCI Express add-in card.

Security Passwords
The BIOS includes security features that restrict whether the BIOS Setup program can
be accessed and who can boot the computer. A supervisor password and a user
password can be set for the BIOS Setup and for booting the computer, with the
following restrictions:
•

•

The supervisor password gives unrestricted access to view and change all Setup
options. If only the supervisor password is set, pressing at the password
prompt of Setup gives the user restricted access to Setup.
If both the supervisor and user passwords are set, you must enter either the
supervisor password or the user password to access Setup. Setup options are then
available for viewing and changing depending on whether the supervisor or user
password was entered.
Setting a user password restricts who can boot the computer. The password
prompt is displayed before the computer is booted. If only the supervisor
password is set, the computer boots without asking for a password. If both
passwords are set, you can enter either password to boot the computer.

For instructions on resetting the password, go to Clearing Passwords on page 55.

Desktop Board Features

Back to BIOS Button
The back panel Back to BIOS button (Figure 4, A) duplicates the functionality of the
BIOS configuration jumper with the following exceptions:
•
•
•

It can only be used to force the board to power on to the BIOS Maintenance Menu
using default values but it will retain all previously saved changes.
It cannot be used to override passwords set in the BIOS.
It cannot be used to invoke BIOS recovery mode.

The button glows red when it is activated.

NOTE
Using the Back to BIOS button does not set the board to the factory BIOS
defaults. To restore settings to the factory defaults, use the key once
BIOS setup mode is active.

Figure 4. Location of the Back to BIOS Button

Hardware Management
The hardware management features of Intel Desktop Board DX79TO enable the board
to be compatible with the Wired for Management (WfM) specification. The board has
several hardware management features including the following:
•
•
•

Fan speed monitoring and control
Thermal and voltage monitoring
Chassis intrusion detection

Hardware Monitoring and Fan Speed Control
Hardware monitoring and fan speed control are based on the Nuvoton* Legacy I/O
Controller, which provides the following:
•
•
•
•

Processor and system ambient temperature monitoring
Monitoring of power supply voltages to detect levels above and below acceptable
values
Chassis fan speed monitoring
SMBus interface

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Chassis Intrusion
The board supports a chassis security feature that detects if the chassis cover has
been removed. The security feature uses a mechanical switch on the chassis that can
be connected to the chassis intrusion header on the Desktop Board. See Figure 20 for
the location and pinout of the chassis intrusion header.

Power Management
Power management is implemented at several levels, including software support
through the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and the following
hardware support:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Power connectors
Fan headers
LAN wake capabilities
Instantly Available PC technology (Suspend to RAM)
+5 V standby power indicator LED
Wake from USB
Power Management Event signal (PME#) wakeup support
WAKE# signal wake-up support
Wake from Consumer IR

Software Support
ACPI
ACPI gives the operating system direct control over the power management and Plug
and Play functions of a computer. The use of ACPI with the Desktop Board requires an
operating system that provides full ACPI support.

Hardware Support
Power Connectors
ATX12V-compliant power supplies can turn off the computer power through system
control. When an ACPI-enabled computer receives the correct command, the power
supply removes all non-standby voltages.
When resuming from an AC power failure, the computer returns to the power state it
was in before power was interrupted (either on or off). The computer’s response can
be set by using the Last Power State feature in the BIOS Setup program’s Boot menu.
The Desktop Board has three power connectors. See Figure 23 on page 53 for the
location of the power connectors.

Desktop Board Features

Fan Headers
The function/operation of the fans is as follows:
•
•
•
•
•

The fans are on when the computer is in the ACPI S0 state.
The fans are off when the computer is in the ACPI S3, S4, or S5 state.
Each fan header is wired to a tachometer input of the hardware monitoring and
control device.
All fan headers support closed-loop fan control that can adjust the fan speed or
switch the fan on or off as needed.
All fan headers have a +12 V DC connection.

The Desktop Board has a 4-pin processor fan header and three 4-pin chassis fan
headers.

LAN Wake Capabilities
CAUTION
For LAN wake capabilities, the 5 V standby line for the power supply must be capable
of delivering adequate +5 V standby current. Failure to provide adequate standby
current when using this feature can damage the power supply.
LAN wakeup capabilities enable remote wake-up of the computer through a network.
The LAN subsystem monitors network traffic and upon detecting a Magic Packet*
frame, it asserts a wake-up signal that powers up the computer.

Instantly Available PC Technology
CAUTIONS
For Instantly Available PC technology, the 5 V standby line for the power supply must
be capable of delivering adequate +5 V standby current. Failure to provide adequate
standby current when using this feature can damage the power supply and/or effect
ACPI S3 sleep state functionality.
Power supplies used with this Desktop Board must be able to provide enough standby
current to support the standard Instantly Available (ACPI S3 sleep state) configuration.
If the standby current necessary to support multiple wake events from the PCI and/or
USB buses exceeds power supply capacity, the Desktop Board may lose register
settings stored in memory.
Instantly Available PC technology enables the board to enter the ACPI S3 (Suspend-toRAM) sleep state. While in the S3 sleep state, the computer will appear to be off. If
the computer has a dual-colored power LED on the front panel, the sleep state is
indicated by the LED turning amber. When signaled by a wake-up device or event, the
computer quickly returns to its last known awake state.
The Desktop Board supports the PCI Bus Power Management Interface Specification.
Add-in cards that support this specification can participate in power management and
can be used to wake the computer.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

+5 V Standby Power Indicator
CAUTION
If the AC power has been switched off and the standby power indicator is still lit,
disconnect the power cord before installing or removing any devices connected to the
board. Failure to do so could damage the board and any attached devices.
The Desktop Board’s standby power indicator, shown in Figure 5, is lit when there is
standby power still present on the board even when the computer appears to be off.
For example, when this LED is lit, standby power is still present at the memory module
sockets and the PCI bus connectors.

Figure 5. Location of the Standby Power Indicator
For more information on standby current requirements for the Desktop Board, refer to
the Technical Product Specification at
http://www.intel.com/products/motherboard/index.htm
1

Desktop Board Features

Wake from USB
NOTE
Wake from USB requires the use of a USB peripheral that supports Wake from USB
and an operating system that supports Wake from USB.
USB bus activity wakes the computer from an ACPI S3 state.

PME# Signal Wake-up Support
When the PME# signal on the PCI bus is asserted, the computer wakes from an
ACPI S3, S4, or S5 state.

WAKE# Signal Wake-up Support
When the WAKE# signal on the PCI Express bus is asserted, the computer wakes from
an ACPI S3, S4, or S5 state.

Wake from Consumer IR
Consumer IR device activity wakes the computer from an ACPI S3, S4, or S5 state.

Onboard System Control Switches
The board contains the following lighted button switches that can be used to control
board operation:
•
•

Power
Reset

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Figure 6. Onboard System Control Switches

Power Switch
The power button switch (see Figure 6, A) can be used to turn the desktop board on or
off. This power button switch behaves the same as a chassis power switch connected
via the front panel header. The onboard power button switch does not remove
standby power. To turn off the computer using the onboard power button switch,
keep it pressed down for three seconds.

Reset Switch
The reset button switch (see Figure 6, B) can be used to reset the desktop board. This
power button switch behaves the same as a chassis reset switch connected via the
front panel header. When the reset button switch is pressed, the board resets and
runs the POST.

Desktop Board Features

System Initialization/ Status LEDs
The Desktop Board provides LEDs that allow you to monitor your system’s progress
through initialization and the BIOS POST (see Figure 7). There are also other board
status LEDs that allow you to monitor other system activities.

Figure 7. Location of the Initialization/Status LEDs

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

System Initialization LEDs
At initial power on, these eight diagnostic LEDs are off. When the BIOS starts an
activity such as memory initialization, the corresponding LED starts flashing. Once the
activity has completed, the LED will remain on. Table 4 lists the LEDs and describes
their function.
Table 4. System Initialization LEDs
Activity
Watch Dog Timer Fire/
Back to BIOS

Item/Callout
in Figure 7

LED
Color

Red

Description
When the watch dog timer fires to reset
the board, this LED will flash.
In addition, this LED will light and stay on
when the Back to BIOS button has been
pressed.

Processor Initialization

Green

This LED will flash when the processor
initialization activity starts. Then the LED
will stay on when processor initialization is
complete.

Memory Initialization

Green

This LED will flash when the memory
initialization activity starts. Then the LED
will stay on when memory initialization is
complete.

Video Initialization

Green

This LED will flash when the video
initialization activity starts. Then the LED
will stay on when video initialization is
complete.

USB Initialization

Green

This LED will flash when the USB
initialization activity starts. Then the LED
will stay on when USB initialization is
complete.

Mass Storage
Initialization

Green

This LED will flash when the hard drive
activity starts. Then the LED will stay on
when hard drive initialization is complete.

Option ROM
Initialization

Green

This LED will flash when the option ROM
activity starts. Then the LED will stay on
when option ROM initialization is complete.

OS Start

Green

Just before BIOS transfers control to the
operating system, this LED will light and
stay on.

Desktop Board Features

Status LEDs
The LEDs in Table 5 indicate various board activities and error conditions on the board.
Table 5. Status LEDs
LED

Item/Callout
in Figure 7

LED
Color

HD Activity

Blue

This LED blinks to indicate the activity of
SATA drives connected to the board.

CPU Hot

Red

The LED indicates an elevated
temperature on the processor that could
affect board performance.

VR Hot

Red

This LED indicates an elevated
temperature in the processor voltage
regulator circuit that could affect board
performance.

CPU Error

Red

Indicates that the system has experienced
a catastrophic error and cannot continue
to operate.

Power Fault

Red

The system power supply is
malfunctioning.

Description

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)
A Nuvoton* WPCT210 TPM component on the Desktop Board is designed to enhance
platform security above-and-beyond the capabilities of today’s software by providing a
protected space for key operations and other security critical tasks. Using both
hardware and software, the TPM protects encryption and signature keys at their most
vulnerable stages—operations when the keys are being used unencrypted in plain-text
form. The TPM is specifically designed to shield unencrypted keys and platform
authentication information from software-based attacks.
For information about enabling and activating the TPM, refer to the Trusted Platform
Module (TPM) Quick Reference Guide included with the board.

Speaker
A speaker is mounted on the Desktop Board. The speaker provides audible error code
(beep code) information during the Power-On Self-Test (POST). Refer to Appendix A
for a description of the board’s beep codes.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Battery
A battery on the Desktop Board keeps the values in CMOS RAM and the clock current
when the computer is turned off and disconnected from AC power. Go to page 56 for
instructions on how to replace the battery.

Real-Time Clock
The Desktop Board has a time-of-day clock and 100-year calendar. The battery on the
Desktop Board keeps the clock current when the computer is turned off.

2 Installing and Replacing Desktop
Board Components
This chapter tells you how to:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Install the I/O shield
Install the Desktop Board
Install a processor
Install memory
Install and remove a PCI Express x16 card
Connect the Serial ATA cables
Connect to the internal headers and connectors
Connect to the audio system
Connect chassis fan and power supply cables
Set the BIOS configuration jumper
Clear passwords
Replace the battery

Before You Begin
CAUTIONS
The procedures in this chapter assume familiarity with the general terminology
associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory
compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment.
Disconnect the computer from its power source and from any telecommunications
links, networks, or modems before performing any of the procedures described in this
chapter. Failure to disconnect power, telecommunications links, networks, or modems
before you open the computer or perform any procedures can result in personal injury
or equipment damage. Some circuitry on the board can continue to operate even
though the front panel power button is off.
Follow these guidelines before you begin:
•
•
•

Always follow the steps in each procedure in the correct order.
Set up a log to record information about your computer, such as model, serial
numbers, installed options, and configuration information.
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage components. Perform the procedures
described in this chapter only at an ESD workstation using an antistatic wrist strap
and a conductive foam pad. If such a station is not available, you can provide
some ESD protection by wearing an antistatic wrist strap and attaching it to a
metal part of the computer chassis.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Installation Precautions
When you install and test the Intel Desktop Board, observe all warnings and cautions
in the installation instructions.
To avoid injury, be careful of:
•
•
•
•
•

Sharp pins on connectors
Sharp pins on printed circuit assemblies
Rough edges and sharp corners on the chassis
Hot components (such as processors, voltage regulators, and heat sinks)
Damage to wires that could cause a short circuit

Observe all warnings and cautions that instruct you to refer computer servicing to
qualified technical personnel.

Prevent Power Supply Overload
Do not overload the power supply output. To avoid overloading the power supply,
make sure that the calculated total current loads of all the modules within the
computer is less than the output current rating of each of the power supplies output
circuits.

Observe Safety and Regulatory Requirements
Read and follow the instructions in this section and the instructions supplied with the
chassis and associated modules. If you do not follow these instructions and the
instructions provided by the chassis and module suppliers, you increase your safety
risk and the possibility of noncompliance with regional laws and regulations. If the
instructions for the chassis are inconsistent with these instructions or the instructions
for associated modules, contact the supplier to find out how you can ensure that your
computer meets safety and regulatory requirements.
For information about the Desktop Board’s regulatory compliance, refer to Appendix B.

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Installing the I/O Shield
The Desktop Board comes with an I/O shield. When installed in the chassis, the shield
blocks radio frequency transmissions, protects internal components from dust and
foreign objects, and promotes correct airflow within the chassis.
Install the I/O shield before installing the Desktop Board in the chassis. Place the
shield inside the chassis as shown in Figure 8. Press the shield into place so that it fits
tightly and securely. If the shield does not fit, obtain a properly sized shield from the
chassis supplier.

Figure 8. Installing the I/O Shield

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Installing the Desktop Board
CAUTION
Only qualified technical personnel should perform this procedure. Disconnect the
computer from its power source before performing the procedures described here.
Failure to disconnect the power before you open the computer can result in personal
injury or equipment damage.
Refer to your chassis manual for instructions on installing and removing the Desktop
Board.
Figure 9 shows the location of the mounting screw holes for Intel Desktop Board
DX79TO.

Figure 9. Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Mounting Screw Hole Locations

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Installing a Processor
CAUTION
Before installing or removing a processor, make sure the AC power has been removed
by unplugging the power cord from the computer; the standby power LED should not
be lit (see Figure 5 on page 24). Failure to do so could damage the processor and the
board.
To install a processor, follow these instructions:
1. Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 31.
2. Open the socket lever marked “OPEN 1st” by pushing the lever down and away
from the socket (Figure 10, A and B). Do not force the lever up to the fully open
position.
3. Open the socket lever marked “CLOSE 1st” by pushing the lever down and away
from the socket (Figure 10, C and D). Rotate the socket lever to its fully open
position as shown

Figure 10. Unlatch the Socket Levers

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

4. Push down on the lever “OPEN 1st” (Figure 11, A) to lift the socket load plate as
shown. Grasp the load plate and lift up to open it fully (Figure 11, B). Do not
touch the socket contacts.

Figure 11. Open the Load Plate

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

5. Remove the processor from it’s packaging and insert in the socket as shown in
Figure 12. Make sure the gold-colored triangle indicating pin 1 on the processor
aligns with the triangle on the socket (Figure 12, A) before you lower the processor
into place. Lower the processor (Figure 12, B) straight down without tilting or
sliding it in the socket.

Figure 12. Install the Processor

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

7. Close the load plate
socket lever labeled
lever is latched, the
socket lever labeled

(Figure 13, A). After the load plate is closed, engage the
“CLOSE 1st” (Figure 13, B) under the latch. As the socket
socket cover (Figure 13, C) will pop off as shown. Engage the
“OPEN 1st” (Figure 13, D) under the latch.

Figure 13. Close the Load Plate
8. Pickup the socket cover (Figure 13, C) and remove it from the board.

NOTE
Do not discard the socket cover; save it for possible future use. Always replace
the socket cover if you remove the processor from the socket.

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Installing a Processor Fan Heat Sink
The LGA2011 processor socket has four threaded holes for mounting a processor fan
heat sink. Figure 14 shows installation of a typical processor fan heat sink; yours may
differ. For detailed instructions on attaching a processor fan heat sink to the Desktop
Board, refer to the Intel boxed processor manual, Intel boxed thermal solution
manual, or instructions third-party thermal solution providers.
Connect the processor fan heat sink cable to the 4-pin processor fan header (see
Figure 14). A fan with a 4-pin connector as shown in Figure 14 is recommended;
however, fans with a 3-pin connectors can be used. However, since a 3-wire fan
cannot use the onboard fan control, the fan will always operate at full speed.

Figure 14. Installing a Fan Heat Sink and Connecting the Cable to the
Processor Fan Header

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Installing and Removing Memory
Intel Desktop board DX79TO has eight 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets arranged in four
channels (A, B, C, and D). See Figure 2 for the memory layout.
For optimal memory performance:
•
•

Install DIMMs in numerical order (1-8).
For dual-, tri-, and quad-channel operation install matched DIMMs of equal speed
and size in each channel.
• If you are installing four or fewer DIMMs, use the blue sockets.

Installing DIMMs
NOTE
Using a DIMM with a voltage rating higher than 1.65 V may damage the processor.
To install a DIMM, follow these steps:
1. Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 31.
2. Turn off all peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn off the computer
and disconnect the AC power cord.
3. Remove the computer’s cover and locate the DIMM sockets (see Figure 15).

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Figure 15. Installing a DIMM
4. Make sure the clips at either end of the DIMM socket(s) are pushed outward to the
open position.
5. Holding the DIMM by the edges, remove it from its anti-static package.
6. Position the DIMM above the socket. Align the small notch at the bottom edge of
the DIMM with the keys in the socket (see inset in Figure 15).
7. Insert the bottom edge of the DIMM into the socket.
8. When the DIMM is inserted, push down on the top edge of the DIMM until the
retaining clips snap into place. Make sure the clips are firmly in place.
9. Replace the computer’s cover and reconnect the AC power cord.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Removing DIMMs
To remove a DIMM, follow these steps:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 31.
Turn off all peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn off the computer.
Remove the AC power cord from the computer.
Remove the computer’s cover.
Gently spread the retaining clips at each end of the DIMM socket. The DIMM pops
out of the socket.
6. Hold the DIMM by the edges, lift it away from the socket, and store it in an
anti-static package.
7. Reinstall and reconnect any parts you removed or disconnected to reach the DIMM
sockets.
8. Replace the computer’s cover and reconnect the AC power cord.

Installing and Removing PCI Express x16
Add-in Cards
CAUTION
When installing a PCI Express card on the Desktop Board, ensure that the card is fully
seated in the PCI Express connector before you power on the system. If the card is
not fully seated in the connector, an electrical short may result across the connector
pins. Depending on the over-current protection of the power supply, certain Desktop
Board components and/or traces may be damaged.

Installing PCI Express x16 Graphics Cards
If you are installing a single PCI Express x16 graphics card, install it in the PCI Express
primary connector (Figure 16, A) for optimum performance.
Follow these instructions to install a PCI Express x16 card:
1. Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 31.
2. Place the card in a PCI Express x16 connector (Figure 16, A) and press down on
the card until it is completely seated in the connector and the card retention notch
on the card snaps into place around the retention mechanism pin on the connector.
3. Secure the card’s metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw
(Figure 16, B).

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Figure 16. Installing a PCI Express x16 Card

Removing a PCI Express x16 Add-in Card
Follow these instructions to remove a PCI Express x16 card from a connector:
1. Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 31.
2. Remove the screw (Figure 17, A) that secures the card’s metal bracket to the
chassis back panel.
3. Push the card ejector lever down using the tip of a pencil or similar tool
(Figure 17, B) in the notch. This will release the card from the connector (C).
4. Pull the card straight up.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Figure 17. Removing a PCI Express x16 Card

Installing Linked PCI Express x16 Graphics Cards
The Desktop Board supports the use of linked PCI Express x16 graphics cards with
Nvidia SLI technology and AMD CrossFire X technology.
When installing linked graphics cards in the PCI Express x16 connectors, refer to the
card manufacturer’s instructions to determine correct card placement and
interconnection. Use the connectors included with the Desktop Board to connect the
graphics cards together.

NOTE
The installations steps that follow provide general instructions, for more complete
installation and configuration information refer to the documentation supplied by the
graphics card manufacturer or visit their website.
To install two linked PCI Express graphics cards:
1. Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 31.
2. Install the first card in the PCI Express x16 connector as described in “Installing
PCI Express x16 Graphics Cards” on page 42.

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

3. Place the second card in the secondary PCI Express x16 connector (Figure 18, A)
and press down on the card until it is completely seated in the connector and the
card retention notch on the card snaps into place around the retention mechanism
pin on the connector.
4. Secure the card’s metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw
(Figure 18, B).
5. Connect the two cards together with the SLI bridge (Figure 18, C) as shown.
6. Connect the monitor cable to the graphics card according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.

Figure 18. Installing Linked PCI Express Graphics Cards
For more complete installation and configuration information refer to the
documentation supplied by the graphics card manufacturer or visit their website.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Connecting SATA Cables
SATA cables support the Serial ATA protocol. Each cable can be used to connect one
internal SATA drive to the Desktop Board. The blue connectors support SATA 6 Gb/s
and lower transfer rates and the black connectors support SATA 3 Gb/s and lower
transfer rates. For correct cable function:
1. Observe the precaution in “Before You Begin” on page 31.
2. Attach one end of the SATA cable to one of the SATA connectors on the board
(Figure 19, A) and attach the other end of the cable to the SATA drive
(Figure 19, B).

Figure 19. Connecting the Serial ATA Cables

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Connecting to the Internal Headers and
Connectors
Before connecting cables to any of the internal headers or connectors, observe the
precautions in “Before You Begin” on page 31. Figure 20 shows the location of the
internal headers on Intel Desktop Board DX79TO.

Figure 20. Internal Headers

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Front Panel Audio Header
Figure 20, A shows the location of the front panel audio header. Table 6 shows the pin
assignments and signal names for the front panel audio header.
Table 6. Front Panel Audio Header Signal Names
Pin

Signal Name

PORT 1L

GND

PORT 1R

PRESENCE#

PORT 2R

SENSE1_RETURN

SENSE_SEND

KEY (no pin)

PORT 2L

SENSE2_RETURN

Chassis Intrusion Header
Figure 20, B shows the location of the chassis intrusion header. This header can be
connected to a mechanical switch on the chassis to detect if the chassis cover is
removed.
Table 7 shows the pin assignments and signal names for the chassis intrusion header.
Table 7. Chassis Intrusion Header Signal Names
Pin

Description

Intruder

Ground

IEEE 1394a Header
Figure 20, C shows the location of the IEEE 1394a header. Table 8 shows the pin
assignments and signal names for the IEEE 1394a header.
Table 8. IEEE 1394a Header Signal Names

Signal Name

TPA1+

TPA1-

Ground

TPA2+

TPA2-

+12 V

Key (no pin)

Ground

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Consumer IR (CIR) Headers
The Desktop Board has two CIR headers: the input or receiver header (Figure 20, F)
and the output or emitter header (Figure 20, D). The receiver header consists of a
filtered translated infrared input compliant with Microsoft CIR specifications and a
“learning” infrared input. The learning input is a high-pass input which the computer
can use to “learn” to speak the infrared communication language of other user
remotes. The emitter header consists of two output ports which the computer can use
to emulate “learned” infrared commands in order to control external electronic
hardware.

NOTE
The Consumer IR option must be enabled in the system BIOS before it can
function. Press at boot to enter the system BIOS, and go to Advanced >
Peripheral Configuration > Enhanced Consumer IR, and set this option to
Enabled.
Table 9 shows the pin assignments and signal names for the front panel CIR receiver
(input) header and Table 10 shows the pin assignments and signal names for the back
panel CIR emitter (output) header.
Table 9. Front Panel CIR Receiver (Input) Header Signal Names
Pin

Signal Name

Ground

LED

No Connection

Learn-In

+5 V Standby

Vcc

Key (no pin)

CIR Input

Table 10. Back Panel CIR Header Emitter (Output) Header Signal Names
Pin

Signal Name

Emitter Out 1

Emitter Out 2

Ground

Key (no pin)

Jack Detect 1

Jack Detect 2

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

USB 2.0 Headers
Figure 20, E shows the location of the USB 2.0 headers. Table 11 shows the pin
assignments and signal names for each USB 2.0 header. Each USB header can be
used to connect two USB devices.
Table 11. USB 2.0 Header Signal Names
USB Port A
Pin
1
3
5
7
9

USB Port B

Signal Name
Power (+5 V)
DD+
Ground
Key

Pin
2
4
6
8
10

Signal Name
Power (+5 V)
DD+
Ground
No Connection

NOTE
Computer systems that have an unshielded cable attached to a USB port might not
meet FCC Class B requirements, even if no device or a low-speed USB device is
attached to the cable. Use a shielded cable that meets the requirements for a
full-speed USB device.

Front Panel Header
Figure 20, G shows the location of the front panel header. Table 12 shows the pin
assignments and signal names for the front panel header.
Table 12. Front Panel Header Signal Names
Pin

Description

In/Out

Description

Hard Drive Activity LED

Power LED

Hard disk LED pull-up to +5 V Out

Front panel green LED

Out

Hard disk active LED

Front panel yellow LED

Out

Reset Switch
5

Ground

Reset switch

On/Off Switch
In

Power switch

Ground

Power
9

In/Out

Power

Not Connected
Out

No pin

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Alternate Front Panel Power LED Header
Figure 20, H shows the location of the alternate front panel power LED header. Pins 1
and 3 of this header duplicate the signals on pins 2 and 4 of the front panel header. If
your chassis has a three-pin power LED cable, connect it to this header.
Table 13 shows the pin assignments and signal names for the alternate front panel
power LED header.
Table 13. Alternate Front Panel Power LED Header Signal Names
Pin

Description

In/Out

Front panel green LED

Out

No pin

Front panel yellow LED

Out

Connecting to the Audio System
After installing the RealTek audio driver from the Intel® Express Installer DVD, the
multi-channel audio feature can be enabled. Figure 21 shows the back panel audio
connectors. The default connector assignments are shown in the table.

Item

Description

Line In

Line Out

Mic In

Figure 21. Back Panel Audio Connectors

NOTE
The back panel line out connector is designed to power either headphones or amplified
speakers only. Poor audio quality may occur if passive (non-amplified) speakers are
connected to this output.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Connecting Chassis Fan and Power Supply
Cables
Connecting Chassis Fan Cables
Connect chassis fan cables to the chassis fan headers on the Desktop Board.
Figure 22 shows the location of the chassis fan headers. The board supports 4-wire
and 3-wire fans.

Figure 22. Location of the Chassis Fan Headers

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Connecting Power Supply Cables
Figure 23 shows the location of the power connectors.

CAUTION
Failure to use an appropriate power supply and/or not connecting the 12 V
(Figure 23, A) power connector to the Desktop Board may result in damage to the
board or the system may not function properly.
The 2 x 12 pin main power connector (Figure 23, B) is backwards compatible with
ATX12V power supplies with 2 x 10 connectors.

Figure 23. Connecting Power Supply Cables
1. Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 31.
2. Connect the 12 V processor core voltage power supply cable to the 2 x 4 pin
connector (Figure 23, A).
3. Connect the main power supply cable to the 2 x 12 pin connector (Figure 23, B).

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Setting the BIOS Configuration Jumper
NOTE
Always turn off the power to the computer before moving the jumper. Moving the
jumper with the power on may result in unreliable computer operation.
Figure 24 shows the location of the Desktop Board’s BIOS configuration jumper block.

Figure 24. Location of the BIOS Configuration Jumper Block
The three-pin BIOS jumper block enables all board configurations to be done in the
BIOS Setup program. Table 14 shows the jumper settings for the BIOS Setup
program modes.

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

Table 14. Jumper Settings for the BIOS Setup Program Modes
Mode

Description

Normal (default) (1-2)

The BIOS uses the current configuration and
passwords for booting.

Configure (2-3)

After the Power-On Self-Test (POST) runs, the
BIOS displays the Maintenance Menu. Use this
menu to clear passwords.

Recovery (None)

The BIOS recovers data in the event of a failed
BIOS update.

Clearing Passwords
This procedure assumes that the board is installed in the computer and the
configuration jumper block is set to normal mode.
1. Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" on page 31.
2. Turn off all peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn off the computer.
Disconnect the computer’s power cord from the AC power source (wall outlet or
power adapter).
3. Remove the computer cover.
4. Find the configuration jumper block (see Figure 24).
5. Place the jumper on pins 2-3.
6. Replace the cover, plug in the computer, turn on the computer, and allow it to
boot.
7. The computer starts the Setup program. Setup displays the Maintenance menu.
8. Use the arrow keys to select Clear Passwords. Press and Setup displays a
pop-up screen requesting that you confirm clearing the password. Select Yes and
press . Setup displays the maintenance menu again.
9. Press to save the current values and exit Setup.
10. Turn off the computer. Disconnect the computer’s power cord from the AC power
source.
11. Remove the computer cover.
12. To restore normal operation, place the jumper on pins 1-2 as shown below.
13. Replace the cover, plug in the computer, and turn on the computer.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Replacing the Battery
A coin-cell battery (CR2032) powers the real-time clock and CMOS memory. When
the computer is not plugged into a wall socket, the battery has an estimated life of
three years. When the computer is plugged in, the standby current from the power
supply extends the life of the battery. The clock is accurate to ± 13 minutes/year at
25 ºC with 3.3 VSB applied.
When the voltage drops below a certain level, the BIOS Setup program settings stored
in CMOS RAM (for example, the date and time) might not be accurate. Replace the
battery with an equivalent one. Figure 25 on page 61 shows the location of the
battery.

CAUTION
Risk of explosion if the battery is replaced with an incorrect type. Batteries should be
recycled where possible. Disposal of used batteries must be in accordance with local
environmental regulations.

PRÉCAUTION
Risque d'explosion si la pile usagée est remplacée par une pile de type incorrect. Les
piles usagées doivent être recyclées dans la mesure du possible. La mise au rebut des
piles usagées doit respecter les réglementations locales en vigueur en matière de
protection de l'environnement.

FORHOLDSREGEL
Eksplosionsfare, hvis batteriet erstattes med et batteri af en forkert type. Batterier
bør om muligt genbruges. Bortskaffelse af brugte batterier bør foregå i
overensstemmelse med gældende miljølovgivning.

OBS!
Det kan oppstå eksplosjonsfare hvis batteriet skiftes ut med feil type. Brukte batterier
bør kastes i henhold til gjeldende miljølovgivning.

VIKTIGT!
Risk för explosion om batteriet ersätts med felaktig batterityp. Batterier ska kasseras
enligt de lokala miljövårdsbestämmelserna.

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

VARO
Räjähdysvaara, jos pariston tyyppi on väärä. Paristot on kierrätettävä, jos se on
mahdollista. Käytetyt paristot on hävitettävä paikallisten ympäristömääräysten
mukaisesti.

VORSICHT
Bei falschem Einsetzen einer neuen Batterie besteht Explosionsgefahr. Die Batterie
darf nur durch denselben oder einen entsprechenden, vom Hersteller empfohlenen
Batterietyp ersetzt werden. Entsorgen Sie verbrauchte Batterien den Anweisungen
des Herstellers entsprechend.

AVVERTIMENTO
Esiste il pericolo di un esplosione se la pila non viene sostituita in modo corretto.
Utilizzare solo pile uguali o di tipo equivalente a quelle consigliate dal produttore. Per
disfarsi delle pile usate, seguire le istruzioni del produttore.

PRECAUCIÓN
Existe peligro de explosión si la pila no se cambia de forma adecuada. Utilice
solamente pilas iguales o del mismo tipo que las recomendadas por el fabricante del
equipo. Para deshacerse de las pilas usadas, siga igualmente las instrucciones del
fabricante.

WAARSCHUWING
Er bestaat ontploffingsgevaar als de batterij wordt vervangen door een onjuist type
batterij. Batterijen moeten zoveel mogelijk worden gerecycled. Houd u bij het
weggooien van gebruikte batterijen aan de plaatselijke milieuwetgeving.

ATENÇÃO
Haverá risco de explosão se a bateria for substituída por um tipo de bateria incorreto.
As baterias devem ser recicladas nos locais apropriados. A eliminação de baterias
usadas deve ser feita de acordo com as regulamentações ambientais da região.

AŚCIAROŽZNAŚĆ
Існуе рызыка выбуху, калі заменены акумулятар неправільнага тыпу.
Акумулятары павінны, па магчымасці, перепрацоўвацца. Пазбаўляцца ад старых
акумулятараў патрэбна згодна з мясцовым заканадаўствам па экалогіі.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

UPOZORNÌNÍ
V případě výměny baterie za nesprávný druh může dojít k výbuchu. Je-li to možné,
baterie by měly být recyklovány. Baterie je třeba zlikvidovat v souladu s místními
předpisy o životním prostředí.

Προσοχή
Υπάρχει κίνδυνος για έκρηξη σε περίπτωση που η μπαταρία αντικατασταθεί από μία
λανθασμένου τύπου. Οι μπαταρίες θα πρέπει να ανακυκλώνονται όταν κάτι τέτοιο είναι
δυνατό. Η απόρριψη των χρησιμοποιημένων μπαταριών πρέπει να γίνεται σύμφωνα με
τους κατά τόπο περιβαλλοντικούς κανονισμούς.

VIGYÁZAT
Ha a telepet nem a megfelelő típusú telepre cseréli, az felrobbanhat. A telepeket
lehetőség szerint újra kell hasznosítani. A használt telepeket a helyi környezetvédelmi
előírásoknak megfelelően kell kiselejtezni.

AWAS
Risiko letupan wujud jika bateri digantikan dengan jenis yang tidak betul. Bateri
sepatutnya dikitar semula jika boleh. Pelupusan bateri terpakai mestilah mematuhi
peraturan alam sekitar tempatan.

OSTRZEŻENIE
Istnieje niebezpieczeństwo wybuchu w przypadku zastosowania niewłaściwego typu
baterii. Zużyte baterie należy w miarę możliwości utylizować zgodnie z odpowiednimi
przepisami ochrony środowiska.

PRECAUŢIE
Risc de explozie, dacă bateria este înlocuită cu un tip de baterie necorespunzător.
Bateriile trebuie reciclate, dacă este posibil. Depozitarea bateriilor uzate trebuie să
respecte reglementările locale privind protecţia mediului.

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

ВНИМАНИЕ
При использовании батареи несоответствующего типа существует риск ее взрыва.
Батареи должны быть утилизированы по возможности. Утилизация батарей должна
проводится по правилам, соответствующим местным требованиям.

UPOZORNENIE
Ak batériu vymeníte za nesprávny typ, hrozí nebezpečenstvo jej výbuchu. Batérie by
sa mali podľa možnosti vždy recyklovať. Likvidácia použitých batérií sa musí vykonávať
v súlade s miestnymi predpismi na ochranu životného prostredia.

POZOR
Zamenjava baterije z baterijo drugačnega tipa lahko povzroči eksplozijo.
Če je mogoče, baterije reciklirajte. Rabljene baterije zavrzite v skladu z lokalnimi
okoljevarstvenimi predpisi.

.
UYARI
Yanlış türde pil takıldığında patlama riski vardır. Piller mümkün olduğunda geri
dönüştürülmelidir. Kullanılmış piller, yerel çevre yasalarına uygun olarak atılmalıdır.

OСТОРОГА
Використовуйте батареї правильного типу, інакше існуватиме ризик вибуху.
Якщо можливо, використані батареї слід утилізувати. Утилізація використаних
батарей має бути виконана згідно місцевих норм, що регулюють охорону довкілля.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Installing and Replacing Desktop Board Components

To replace the battery, follow these steps:
1. Observe the precautions in "Before You Begin" (see page 31).
2. Turn off all peripheral devices connected to the computer. Disconnect the
computer’s power cord from the AC power source (wall outlet or power adapter).
3. Remove the computer cover.
4. Locate the battery on the board (see Figure 25).
5. Push the retaining clip away from the battery as shown in Figure 25 and remove
the battery from its connector by lifting up. Note the orientation of the “+” and “-”
on the battery.
6. Install the new battery in the connector, orienting the “+” and “-” correctly.
7. Replace the computer cover.

Figure 25. Removing the Battery

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

3 Updating the BIOS
The BIOS Setup program can be used to view and change the BIOS settings for the
computer. You can access the BIOS Setup program by pressing the F2 key after the
Power-On Self-Test (POST) memory test begins and before the operating system boot
begins.
This chapter tells you how to update the BIOS by either using the Intel Express BIOS
Update utility or the Intel® Flash Memory Update Utility, and how to recover the BIOS
if an update fails.

Updating the BIOS with the Intel® Express
BIOS Update Utility
With the Intel Express BIOS Update utility you can update the system BIOS while in
the Windows environment. The BIOS file is included in an automated update utility
that combines the functionality of the Intel Flash Memory Update Utility and the ease
of use of Windows-based installation wizards.
To update the BIOS with the Intel Express BIOS Update utility:
1. Go to the Intel World Wide Web site Download Center at
http://downloadcenter.intel.com/
2. Navigate to the DX79TO page. Click on the “BIOS Update” link and then select the
Express BIOS Update file.
3. Download the file to your hard drive. (You can also save this file to a removable
USB device. This is useful if you are updating the BIOS for multiple identical
systems.)
4. Close all other applications. This step is required. Your system will be rebooted at
the last Express BIOS Update window.
5. Double-click the executable file from the location on your hard drive where it was
saved. This runs the update program.
6. Follow the instructions provided in the dialog boxes to complete the BIOS update.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Updating the BIOS Using the F7 Function Key
To use this BIOS update method:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Download and save the Recovery BIOS (.BIO) file to a temporary directory.
Copy the .BIO file to a USB thumb drive.
Plug the thumb drive into a USB port of the target computer.
Shut down the target computer.
Enable the F7 prompt display:
a. Power the computer on.
b. Enter the BIOS Setup by pressing the F2 key during boot.
c. Go to the Advanced > Boot Configuration menu.
d. Enable Display F7 to Update BIOS
e. Press the F10 key to save and exit.
6. During boot, when the F7 prompt is displayed, press the F7 key to enter the BIOS
Flash Update tool.
7. Select the USB thumb drive and press Enter.
8. Select the .BIO file and press Enter
9. Confirm you want to update the BIOS by pressing Enter.
10. Wait 2-5 minutes for the update to complete.
11. Remove the thumb drive.
12. Restart the computer.

Updating the BIOS with the Intel® Flash
Memory Update Utility
You can use the information in this section to update the BIOS using the Intel® Flash
Memory Update Utility. With the Intel Flash Memory Update Utility you can update the
system BIOS from a bootable CD-ROM, bootable USB flash drive, or other bootable
USB media.
You can update to a new version of the BIOS by using the Intel Flash Memory BIOS
update file. The Intel Flash Memory BIOS update file is a compressed file that contains
the files you need to update the BIOS. The BIOS update file contains:
•
•
•

New BIOS file (including the Intel® Management Engine (Intel® ME) Firmware
Image)
Intel® Integrator Toolkit Configuration File (optional)
Intel Flash Memory Update Utility

You can obtain this file through your computer supplier or by navigating to the Intel
Desktop Board DX79TO page on the Intel World Wide Web site Download Center at
http://downloadcenter.intel.com.
On the DX79TO page, click on the “BIOS Update” link and then select the Iflash BIOS
Update file.

Updating the BIOS

NOTE
Review the instructions distributed with the update utility before attempting a BIOS
update.

CAUTION
Do not interrupt the process or the system may not function properly.
1. Uncompress the BIOS update file and copy the .BIO file, IFLASH2.EXE, and .ITK file
(optional) to a bootable USB flash drive or other bootable USB media.
2. Configure the BIOS or use the F10 key option during POST to boot to the USB
device.
3. Manually run the IFLASH2.EXE file from the USB device and manually update the
BIOS.

CAUTION
DO NOT POWER DOWN YOUR COMPUTER before the update is complete. The update
may take up to 5 minutes.

Recovering the BIOS
It is unlikely that anything will interrupt the BIOS update; however, if an interruption
occurs, the BIOS could be damaged. Due to BIOS size and recovery requirements, a
CD-R with the .BIO file in the root directory will be required.
You can obtain the Recovery BIOS Update file through your computer supplier or by
navigating to the Intel Desktop Board DX79TO page on the Intel World Wide Web site
Download Center at http://downloadcenter.intel.com.
On the Intel Desktop Board DX79TO page, click on the “BIOS Update” link and then
select the Recovery BIOS Update file.

NOTE
For more information about updating the Intel Desktop Board BIOS or recovering from
a BIOS update failure, go to
http://support.intel.com/support/motherboards/desktop/sb/CS-022312.htm.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

4 Configuring for RAID Using Intel®
Rapid Storage Technology
NOTE
Intel RST requires a Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows Vista, or Microsoft
Windows XP operating system and SATA hard drives.
This section describes how to:
•
•
•
•

Configure the BIOS for RAID
Create a RAID Set
Load the Intel RST RAID Drivers and Software (required for Microsoft Windows XP
installation only)
Create a “RAID Ready System”

Configuring the BIOS
1. Assemble your system and attach two or more SATA hard drives to the black SATA
connectors.
2. Enter system BIOS Setup by pressing after the Power-On-Self-Test (POST)
memory tests begin.
3. Go to Configuration
SATA Drives.
4. Select Chipset SATA Mode and change the value to RAID.
5. Then save your settings by pressing .

Creating Your RAID Set
1. Upon re-boot, you will see the following Intel Rapid Storage Manager option ROM
status message on the screen: Press to enter the RAID
Configuration Utility. Press and enter the RAID Configuration Utility.
2. In the Intel Rapid Storage Manager option ROM Main Menu, select option #1:
Create RAID Volume. Enter a volume name (using English alphanumeric ASCII
characters) and press .
3. Use the arrow keys to select RAID 0 or RAID 1 (if only two SATA drives are
available), RAID 5 and RAID 10 (these options will only appear if three or four
SATA drives are installed respectively). Press once you have selected the
RAID LEVEL.
4. Select the drives to be used in the RAID array (only if there are more than two
drives available) and press .
5. Select the strip size, if necessary, and press .
6. Enter the size of the volume (if you enter less than the maximum volume size, you
can then create a second RAID array on the remaining portion of your volume) and
press .

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

7. Finally, press to Create Volume.
8. Exit the Option ROM user interface by pressing or going to the EXIT option
in the MAIN MENU.

Loading the Intel RST RAID Drivers and Software
(Required for Microsoft Windows XP Installation)
1. Begin Windows Setup by booting from the Windows installation CD.
2. At the beginning of Windows Setup, press to install a third-party SCSI or
RAID driver. When prompted, insert the diskette that contains the Intel RST RAID
Driver in a USB floppy disk drive. Refer to
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/916196/en-us for information on supported USB
floppy disk drives. Install the Intel® SATA RAID Controller driver.
3. Finish the Windows installation and install all necessary drivers.
4. Install the Intel Rapid Storage Console software via the Intel Express Installer DVD
included with your Desktop Board or after downloading it from the Internet at
http://support.intel.com/support/motherboards/desktop/. The Intel Rapid Storage
Console software can be used to manage the RAID configuration.

Setting Up a “RAID Ready” System
The Intel RST Console software offers the flexibility to upgrade from a single SATA
drive to RAID without reinstalling the operating system when a second SATA hard
drive is added to the system.
Follow the steps described above in: "Configuring the BIOS" and "Loading the Intel
RST RAID Drivers and Software."
Once additional SATA drives have been added to the system, open the Intel RST
Console Software and follow the directions to update to a RAID setup.

A Error Messages and Indicators
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO reports POST errors in three ways:
•
•
•

By sounding a beep code and blinking the front panel power LED
By displaying an error message on the monitor
By displaying diagnostic progress codes (POST codes)

BIOS Error Codes
Whenever a recoverable error occurs during POST, the BIOS causes the board’s
speaker to beep and the front panel power LED to blink an error message indicating
the problem (see Table 15).
Table 15. BIOS Beep Codes
Type

Pattern

Processor
One 0.5 second beep when the CPU initialization process
initialization complete completes.
POST complete

One 0.5 second beep when POST completes.

Video error

On-off (0.5 seconds each) two times, then 3.0 second pause
(off), entire pattern repeats (beeps and pause) until the system
is powered off.

Memory error

On-off (0.5 seconds each) three times, then 3.0 second pause
(off), entire pattern repeats (beeps and pause) until the system
is powered off.

Thermal trip warning

On-off (0.5 seconds each) four times, then 3.0 second pause
(off), entire pattern repeats (beeps and pause) until the
sixteenth beep, then ends.

Table 16. Front-panel Power LED Blink Codes
Type

Pattern

Processor
On when the system powers up, then off for 0.5 seconds.
initialization complete
POST complete

On when the system powers up, then off for 0.5 seconds.

BIOS update in
progress

Off when the update begins, then on for 0.5 seconds, then off for
0.5 seconds. The pattern repeats until the BIOS update is
complete.

Video error

On-off (0.5 seconds each) two times, then 3.0 second pause
(off), entire pattern repeats (blink and pause) until the system is
powered off.

Memory error

On-off (0.5 seconds each) three times, then 3.0 second pause
(off), entire pattern repeats (blinks and pause) until the system
is powered off.

Thermal trip warning

On-off (0.5 seconds each) four times, then 3.0 second pause
(off), entire pattern repeats (blinks and pause) until the
sixteenth blink, then ends.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

BIOS Error Messages
When a recoverable error occurs during the POST, the BIOS displays an error message
describing the problem. Table 17 gives an explanation of the BIOS error messages.
Table 17. BIOS Error Messages

Error Message

Explanation

PROCESSOR_THERMAL_TRIP_ERROR

Processor was previously shutdown due to a thermal
event (overheating).

CMOS_BATTERY_ERROR

The firmware has detected that a CMOS battery failure
occurred.

CMOS_CHECKSUM_ERROR

The firmware has detected that a CMOS Checksum Error
occurred.

CMOS_TIMER_ERROR

The firmware has detected that the system date/time
has not been set.

MEMORY_SIZE_DECREASE_ERROR

The firmware has detected that the system memory has
decreased.

INTRUDER_DETECTION_ERROR

The system chassis was opened.

SPD_TOLER_ERROR

SERIAL PRESENCE DETECT (SPD) device data missing or
inconclusive. Properly programmed SPD device data is
required for reliable operation.

Error Messages and Indicators

Port 80h POST Codes
During the POST, the BIOS generates diagnostic progress codes (POST codes) to I/O
port 80h. If the POST fails, execution stops and the last POST code generated is left
at port 80h and displayed on the Desktop Board’s seven-segment LED display shown
in Figure 26. This code is useful for determining the point where an error occurred
during the POST.

Figure 26. POST Code LED Display

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Table 18 lists the Port 80h POST codes in hexadecimal notation.
Table 18. Port 80h POST Codes
POST Code

Description

Entering S0 state, standard

ACPI S States
01-05

Entering S1-S5 state

10, 20, 30,
40, 50

Resuming from S1-S5 state

Starting BIOS execution after CPU BIST

Security Phase (SEC)
09

SPI prefetching and caching

0A, 0B

Load BSP/APS microcode

Platform program base addresses

Wake up all APS

Initialize NEM

Pass entry point of the PEI core
PEI Phase Before MRC

Set bootmode, GPIO init

Early chipset register programming

Basic PCH init, discrete device init

LAN init

Exit early platform init driver

SMBUS driver init

17, 18

Entry/Exit to SMBUS execute read/write

19, 1A

Entry/Exit to CK505 programming

1B, 1C

Entry/Exit to PEI overclock programming
MEC Memory Detection

MRC entry point

Reading SPD from memory DIMMs

Detecting presence of memory DIMMs

Configuring memory

Testing memory

Exit MRC driver
PEI After MRC

2A, 2B

Start/finish programming MTRR settings
continued

Error Messages and Indicators

Table 18. Port 80h POST Codes (continued)
PEIMs/Recovery
31, 33, 34

Recovery has initiate, load, valid

41-43

Begin to end CPU PEI init

44-46

Begin to end CPU SMM init/relocate bases

47-4C

CPU DXE phase begin to end

4D-4F

CPU DXE SMM phase begin to end

50-52

PCI enumeration, allocation, hot plug

CPU Initialization (PEI, DXE, SMM)

I/O Buses
58, 59

Resetting USB bus

5A, 5B

Resetting SATA bus and all devices

Unrecoverable error, start with PIC
Boot Device Selection (BDS)

60-6F

BDS driver entry

Entered DXE phase

Waiting for user input

Checking password

Entering BIOS setup

Calling legacy option ROMs

90-95

Keyboard initialization

98-9B

Mouse initialization

Keyboard/Mouse (PS/2 or USB)

Fixed Media
B0-BF

Detecting and initializing fixed media
Runtime Phase/EFI Operating System Boot

EFI boot service ExitBootServices

EFI runtime service SetVirtualAddressMap

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

B Regulatory Compliance
This appendix contains the following regulatory compliance information for Intel
Desktop Board DX79TO:
•
•
•
•
•

Safety standards
European Union Declaration of Conformity statement
Product Ecology statements
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) regulations
Product certifications

Safety Standards
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO complies with the safety standards stated in Table 19
when correctly installed in a compatible host system.
Table 19. Safety Standards
Regulation

Title

CSA/UL 60950-1

Information Technology Equipment – Safety - Part 1: General
Requirements (USA and Canada)

EN 60950-1

Information Technology Equipment – Safety - Part 1: General
Requirements (European Union)

IEC 60950-1

Information Technology Equipment – Safety - Part 1: General
Requirements (International)

Battery Caution
There is insufficient space on this Desktop Board to provide instructions for replacing
and disposing of the Lithium ion coin cell battery. For system safety certification, the
statement below or an equivalent statement is required to be permanently and legibly
marked on the chassis near the battery.
A suitable caution label is included with Intel Desktop Board DX79TO.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

European Union Declaration of Conformity
Statement
We, Intel Corporation, declare under our sole responsibility that the product Intel®
Desktop Board DX79TO is in conformity with all applicable essential requirements
necessary for CE marking, following the provisions of the European Council Directives
2004/108/EC (EMC Directive), 2006/95/EC (Low Voltage Directive), and 2002/95/EC
(ROHS Directive).
The product is properly CE marked demonstrating this conformity and is for
distribution within all member states of the EU with no restrictions.

This product follows the provisions of the European Directives 2004/108/EC,
2006/95/EC and 2002/95/EC.
Čeština Tento výrobek odpovídá požadavkům evropských směrnic 2004/108/EC,
2006/95/EC a 2002/95/EC.
Dansk Dette produkt er i overensstemmelse med det europæiske direktiv
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.
Dutch Dit product is in navolging van de bepalingen van Europees Directief
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.
Eesti Antud toode vastab Euroopa direktiivides 2004/108/EC, ja 2006/95/EC ja
2002/95/EC kehtestatud nõuetele.
Suomi Tämä tuote noudattaa EU-direktiivin 2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC
määräyksiä.
Français Ce produit est conforme aux exigences de la Directive Européenne
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.
Deutsch Dieses Produkt entspricht den Bestimmungen der Europäischen Richtlinie
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.
Ελληνικά Το παρόν προϊόν ακολουθεί τις διατάξεις των Ευρωπαϊκών Οδηγιών
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC και 2002/95/EC.
Magyar E termék megfelel a 2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC és 2002/95/EC Európai
Irányelv előírásainak.
Icelandic Þessi vara stenst reglugerð Evrópska Efnahags Bandalagsins númer
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC, & 2002/95/EC.
Italiano Questo prodotto è conforme alla Direttiva Europea 2004/108/EC,
2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.
Latviešu Šis produkts atbilst Eiropas Direktīvu 2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC un
2002/95/EC noteikumiem.
Lietuvių Šis produktas atitinka Europos direktyvų 2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC, ir
2002/95/EC nuostatas.
Malti Dan il-prodott hu konformi mal-provvedimenti tad-Direttivi Ewropej
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC u 2002/95/EC.
Norsk Dette produktet er i henhold til bestemmelsene i det europeiske direktivet
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.

Regulatory Compliance

Polski Niniejszy produkt jest zgodny z postanowieniami Dyrektyw Unii Europejskiej
2004/108/EC, 206/95/EC i 2002/95/EC.
Portuguese Este produto cumpre com as normas da Diretiva Européia 2004/108/EC,
2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.
Español Este producto cumple con las normas del Directivo Europeo 2004/108/EC,
2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.
Slovensky Tento produkt je v súlade s ustanoveniami európskych direktív
2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC a 2002/95/EC.
Slovenščina Izdelek je skladen z določbami evropskih direktiv 2004/108/EC,
2006/95/EC in 2002/95/EC.
Svenska Denna produkt har tillverkats i enlighet med EG-direktiv 2004/108/EC,
2006/95/EC & 2002/95/EC.
Türkçe Bu ürün, Avrupa Birliği’nin 2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC ve 2002/95/EC
yönergelerine uyar.

Product Ecology Statements
The following information is provided to address worldwide product ecology concerns
and regulations.

Recycling Considerations
As part of its commitment to environmental responsibility, Intel has implemented the
Intel® Product Recycling Program to allow retail consumers of Intel’s branded products
to return used products to selected locations for proper recycling.
Please consult http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology
for the details of this program, including the scope of covered products, available
locations, shipping instructions, terms and conditions, etc.
中文
作为其对环境责任之承诺的部分，英特尔已实施 Intel Product Recycling Program
（英特尔产品回收计划），以允许英特尔品牌产品的零售消费者将使用过的产品退还至指定地点作恰
当的重复使用处理。
请参考http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology
了解此计划的详情，包括涉及产品之范围、回收地点、运送指导、条款和条件等。

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Deutsch
Als Teil von Intels Engagement für den Umweltschutz hat das Unternehmen das Intel
Produkt-Recyclingprogramm implementiert, das Einzelhandelskunden von Intel
Markenprodukten ermöglicht, gebrauchte Produkte an ausgewählte Standorte für
ordnungsgemäßes Recycling zurückzugeben.
Details zu diesem Programm, einschließlich der darin eingeschlossenen Produkte,
verfügbaren Standorte, Versandanweisungen, Bedingungen usw., finden Sie auf der
http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology
Español
Como parte de su compromiso de responsabilidad medioambiental, Intel ha
implantado el programa de reciclaje de productos Intel, que permite que los
consumidores al detalle de los productos Intel devuelvan los productos usados en los
lugares seleccionados para su correspondiente reciclado.
Consulte la http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology
para ver los detalles del programa, que incluye los productos que abarca, los lugares
disponibles, instrucciones de envío, términos y condiciones, etc.
Français
Dans le cadre de son engagement pour la protection de l'environnement, Intel a mis
en œuvre le programme Intel Product Recycling Program (Programme de recyclage
des produits Intel) pour permettre aux consommateurs de produits Intel de recycler
les produits usés en les retournant à des adresses spécifiées.
Visitez la page Web http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology pour en savoir
plus sur ce programme, à savoir les produits concernés, les adresses disponibles, les
instructions d'expédition, les conditions générales, etc.
日本語
インテルでは、環境保護活動の一環として、使い終えたインテル
ブランド製品を指定の場所へ返送していただき、リサイクルを適切に行えるよう、インテル製品リサイクル
プログラムを発足させました。
対象製品、返送先、返送方法、ご利用規約など、このプログラムの詳細情報は、http://intel.com/intel/ot
her/ehs/product_ecology （英語）をご覧ください。
Malay
Sebagai sebahagian daripada komitmennya terhadap tanggungjawab persekitaran,
Intel telah melaksanakan Program Kitar Semula Produk untuk membenarkan
pengguna-pengguna runcit produk jenama Intel memulangkan produk terguna ke
lokasi-lokasi terpilih untuk dikitarkan semula dengan betul.
Sila rujuk http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology untuk mendapatkan butirbutir program ini, termasuklah skop produk yang dirangkumi, lokasi-lokasi tersedia,
arahan penghantaran, terma & syarat, dsb.

Regulatory Compliance

Portuguese
Como parte deste compromisso com o respeito ao ambiente, a Intel implementou o
Programa de Reciclagem de Produtos para que os consumidores finais possam enviar
produtos Intel usados para locais selecionados, onde esses produtos são reciclados de
maneira adequada.
Consulte o site http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology (em Inglês) para
obter os detalhes sobre este programa, inclusive o escopo dos produtos cobertos, os
locais disponíveis, as instruções de envio, os termos e condições, etc.
Russian
В качестве части своих обязательств к окружающей среде, в Intel создана
программа утилизации продукции Intel (Product Recycling Program) для
предоставления конечным пользователям марок продукции Intel возможности
возврата используемой продукции в специализированные пункты для должной
утилизации.
Пожалуйста, обратитесь на веб-сайт
http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology за информацией об этой
программе, принимаемых продуктах, местах приема, инструкциях об отправке,
положениях и условиях и т.д.
Türkçe
Intel, çevre sorumluluğuna bağımlılığının bir parçası olarak, perakende tüketicilerin
Intel markalı kullanılmış ürünlerini belirlenmiş merkezlere iade edip uygun şekilde geri
dönüştürmesini amaçlayan Intel Ürünleri Geri Dönüşüm Programı’nı uygulamaya
koymuştur.
Bu programın ürün kapsamı, ürün iade merkezleri, nakliye talimatları, kayıtlar ve
şartlar v.s dahil bütün ayrıntılarını ögrenmek için lütfen
http://intel.com/intel/other/ehs/product_ecology web sayfasına gidin.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

China RoHS
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO is a China RoHS-compliant product.
The China Ministry of Information Industry (MII) stipulates that a material Self
Declaration Table (SDT) must be included in a product’s user documentation. The SDT
for Intel Desktop Board DX79TO is shown in Figure 27.

Figure 27. Intel Desktop Board DX79TO China RoHS Material
Self Declaration Table

Regulatory Compliance

EMC Regulations
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO complies with the EMC regulations stated in Table 20
when correctly installed in a compatible host system.
Table 20. EMC Regulations
Regulation

Title

FCC 47 CFR Part 15,
Subpart B

Title 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 15, Subpart B,
Radio Frequency Devices. (USA)

ICES-003

Interference-Causing Equipment Standard, Digital Apparatus.
(Canada)

EN55022

Limits and methods of measurement of Radio Interference
Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment. (European
Union)

EN55024

Information Technology Equipment – Immunity Characteristics
Limits and methods of measurement. (European Union)

EN55022

Australian Communications Authority, Standard for
Electromagnetic Compatibility. (Australia and New Zealand)

CISPR 22

Limits and methods of measurement of Radio Disturbance
Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment.
(International)

CISPR 24

Information Technology Equipment – Immunity Characteristics –
Limits and Methods of Measurement. (International)

VCCI V-3, V-4

Voluntary Control for Interference by Information Technology
Equipment. (Japan)

KN-22, KN-24

Korean Communications Commission – Framework Act on
Telecommunications and Radio Waves Act. (South Korea)

CNS 13438

Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection. (Taiwan)

FCC Declaration of Conformity
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
For questions related to the EMC performance of this product, contact:
Intel Corporation, 5200 N.E. Elam Young Parkway, Hillsboro, OR 97124
1-800-628-8686
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
•
•
•
•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit other than the one to which the
receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Any changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by Intel
Corporation could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Tested to comply with FCC standards for home or office use.

Canadian Department of Communications Compliance
Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numerique német pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les
limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe B prescrites dans le
Réglement sur le broullage radioélectrique édicté par le ministére des Communications
du Canada.

Japan VCCI Statement
Japan Statement translation: This is a Class B product based on the standard of the
Voluntary Control Council for Interference from Information Technology Equipment
(VCCI). If this is used near a radio or television receiver in a domestic environment, it
may cause radio interference. Install and use the equipment according to the
instruction manual.

Regulatory Compliance

Korea Class B Statement
Korea Class B Statement translation: This equipment is for home use, and has
acquired electromagnetic conformity registration, so it can be used not only in
residential areas, but also other areas.

Ensure Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
Compliance
Before computer integration, make sure that the power supply and other modules or
peripherals, as applicable, have passed Class B EMC testing and are marked
accordingly.
Pay close attention to the following when reading the installation instructions for the
host chassis, power supply, and other modules:
•
•
•
•

Product certifications or lack of certifications
External I/O cable shielding and filtering
Mounting, grounding, and bonding requirements
Keying connectors when mating the wrong connectors could be hazardous

If the power supply and other modules or peripherals, as applicable, are not Class B
EMC compliant before integration, then EMC testing may be required on a
representative sample of the newly completed computer.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

Product Certifications
Board-Level Certifications
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO has the regulatory compliance marks shown in Table 21.
Table 21. Regulatory Compliance Marks
Description

Mark

UL joint US/Canada Recognized Component mark. Includes adjacent
UL file number for Intel Desktop Boards: E210882.
FCC Declaration of Conformity logo mark for Class B equipment.

CE mark. Declaring compliance to European Union (EU) EMC
directive, Low Voltage directive, and RoHS directive.

Australian Communications Authority (ACA) and New Zealand Radio
Spectrum Management (NZ RSM) C-tick mark. Includes adjacent
Intel supplier code number, N-232.
Japan VCCI (Voluntary Control Council for Interference) mark.

Korea Certification mark. Includes an adjacent KCC (Korean
Communications Commission) certification number:
KCC-REM-CPU-DX79TO.
Taiwan BSMI (Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspections)
mark. Includes adjacent Intel company number, D33025.
Printed wiring board manufacturer’s recognition mark. Consists of a
unique UL recognized manufacturer’s logo, along with a flammability
rating (solder side).
China RoHS/Environmentally Friendly Use Period Logo: This is an
example of the symbol used on Intel Desktop Boards and associated
collateral. The color of the mark may vary depending upon the
application. The Environmental Friendly Usage Period (EFUP) for
Intel Desktop Boards has been determined to be 10 years.

V-0

Regulatory Compliance

Chassis- and Component-Level Certifications
Ensure that the chassis and certain components; such as the power supply, peripheral
drives, wiring, and cables; are components certified for the country or market where
used. Agency certification marks on the product are proof of certification. Typical
product certifications include:
In Europe
The CE mark indicates compliance with all applicable European requirements. If the
chassis and other components are not properly CE marked, a supplier’s Declaration of
Conformity statement to the European EMC directive, Low Voltage directive (as
applicable), and ROHS directive, should be obtained. Additionally, other directives,
such as the Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (R&TTE) directive may
also apply depending on product features.
In the United States
A certification mark by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) such as UL,
CSA, or ETL signifies compliance with safety requirements. Wiring and cables must
also be UL listed or recognized and suitable for the intended use. The FCC Class B
logo for home or office use signifies compliance with electromagnetic interference
(EMI) requirements.
In Canada
A nationally recognized certification mark such as CSA or cUL signifies compliance with
safety requirements. The Industry Canada statement on page 82 of this product guide
demonstrates compliance with Canadian EMC regulations.

ENERGY STAR*, e-Standby, and ErP
Compliance
The US Department of Energy and the US Environmental Protection Agency have
continually revised the ENERGY STAR requirements. Intel has worked directly with
these two governmental agencies in the definition of the new requirements.
Intel Desktop Board DX79TO meets the following program requirements in an
adequate system configuration, including appropriate selection of an efficient power
supply:
•
•
•
•

Energy Star v5.0, category D
EPEAT
Korea e-Standby
European Union Energy-related Products Directive 2009 (ErP)

For information about ENERGY STAR requirements and recommended configurations,
go to http://www.intel.com/go/energystar.

Intel Desktop Board DX79TO Product Guide

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