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I have a Z68 motherboard that is capable to run an Ivy Bridge CPU which features VT-d. Currently, I do not have such a CPU, but I plan to upgrade it so I am able to pass PCI devices (Ethernet and graphics card) to a QEMU machine for testing.
However, I see much contradictory information on the support of VT-d for this Z68 motherboard.
- This Intel article on Compatibility with Intel® Virtualization Technology (Intel® VT) state that the BIOS has to support VT-d. The Z68 board is not listed on the supported motherboards list for VT-d.
- http://www.tinkertry.com/vmdirectpath/ show some Z68 boards which are supposed to support VT-d and some which do not.
- But the most confusing thing is... Intel mentions that the Z68 Chipset does not have VT-d at all!
Assume that a CPU supports VT-d. Is motherboard support for VT-d determined by software (BIOS) or hardware (some additional chips or hardware logic)?
It would probably help if you told us what motherboard you have... However, in general, without an option in the BIOS to explicitly enable it, it may just stay disabled for security reasons. – Breakthrough – 2013-06-18T20:20:42.847
I tried to keep this question more generic, but since you insisted, the motherboard is GA-Z68X-UD3H-B3 rev1.0. There is no official option, but the provided images in this forum thread do add an Enable VT-d option. (though I cannot confirm whether it works or not since I do not have a VT-d capable CPU yet.)
– Lekensteyn – 2013-06-18T20:25:11.913Yes, but have a look at the last reply in that thread from a Gigabyte employee. Indeed, it appears as though the Z86 Express does not have VT-d support... But you are correct in your assumption, both the CPU and motherboard/chipset both need to support VT-d.
– Breakthrough – 2013-06-18T20:30:14.447That user does not look like a GA employee. Isn't Z86 Express referred to from Z68X? My question still stands, is VT-d support dependent on the hardware (motherboard!) or firmware (BIOS)? – Lekensteyn – 2013-06-18T20:56:29.640
Ah sorry my mistake. However, still note that the Intel site says the Z68 Express chipset does not have VT-d support... (this makes Breakthrough sad because he too has a Z68 board). – Breakthrough – 2013-06-18T20:57:17.247