Computer Hardware User Manual
iii
Contents
Notices vi
Safety information ..................................................................................................... vii
About this guide ....................................................................................................... viii
P9X79 PRO specications summary ......................................................................... x
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! .................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Package contents.......................................................................................1-1
1.3 Special features..........................................................................................1-2
1.3.1 Product highlights........................................................................1-2
1.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with New DIGI+ Power Control .... 1-3
1.3.3 ASUS Exclusive Features ........................................................... 1-4
1.3.4 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution ..................................................... 1-5
1.3.5 ASUS EZ DIY .............................................................................. 1-6
1.3.6 Other special features ................................................................. 1-7
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed ................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview ............................................................................... 2-2
2.2.1 Motherboard layout ..................................................................... 2-2
2.2.2 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-4
2.2.3 System memory .......................................................................... 2-5
2.2.4 Expansion slots ......................................................................... 2-14
2.2.5 Onboard switches ..................................................................... 2-16
2.2.6 Onboard LEDs .......................................................................... 2-20
2.2.7 Internal connectors....................................................................2-26
2.3 Building your computer system ............................................................. 2-36
2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system ............ 2-36
2.3.2 CPU installation.........................................................................2-37
2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ............................. 2-39
2.3.4 DIMM installation....................................................................... 2-40
2.3.5 Motherboard installation ............................................................ 2-41
2.3.6 ATX Power connection ..............................................................2-43
2.3.7 SATA device connection ............................................................ 2-44
2.3.8 Front I/O Connector .................................................................. 2-45
2.3.9 Expansion Card installation....................................................... 2-46
2.3.10 USB BIOS Flashback ................................................................ 2-47
2.3.11 Rear panel connection .............................................................. 2-48
2.3.12 Audio I/O connections ............................................................... 2-50
2.4 Starting up for the rst time .................................................................... 2-52