User Guide

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Motherboard

MAXIMUS VI

HERO

Summary of content (176 pages)

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Motherboard MAXIMUS VI HERO
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E8181 First Edition May 2013 Copyright © 2013 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
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Contents Safety information....................................................................................................... vi About this guide......................................................................................................... vii MAXIMUS VI HERO specifications summary........................................................... ix Package contents......................................................................................................
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Chapter 3: 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 BIOS setup program................................................................................... 3-2 3.2.1 3.2.2 Main menu................................................................................................. 3-23 Advanced menu........................................................................................ 3-25 3.6.1 CPU Configuration..................................................................... 3-26 3.6.3 SATA Configuration..........
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Chapter 4: 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 Support DVD information........................................................................... 4-1 4.2.1 4.2.2 AI Suite 3...................................................................................................... 4-3 Dual Intelligent Processors 4....................................................... 4-6 4.4.3 USB 3.0 Boost........................................................................... 4-14 4.4.5 4.4.6 4.4.7 System Information....................
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Safety information Electrical safety • • • • • • To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
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About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • • • • • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.
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Conventions used in this guide To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. . NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
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MAXIMUS VI HERO specifications summary LGA1150 socket for 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7/ i5/ i3/ Pentium®/ Celeron® processors Supports 22nm CPU CPU Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0* * The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU types. ** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list Chipset Intel® Z87 Express Chipset Dual channel memory architecture Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 2800(O.C.) / 2666(O.C.) / 2600(O.C.) / 2500 (O.C.) / 2400 (O.C.) / 2200(O.C.
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LAN 1 x Intel® I217-V Gigabit LAN Controller ROG SupremeFX Audio 8-Channel High Definition Audio Audio - SupremeFX Shielding Technology - ELNA® Premium Audio Capacitors - Front DAC playback Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-weighted): 112 dB - ADC recording Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-weighted): 104 dB - Content Protection for Full Rate lossless DVD Audio, Blu-ray DVD, and HD-DVD audio content playback - Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking - Optical S/PDIF out port at back panel Audio Featu
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Extreme Engine Digi+ III - Full digital 8+2 phase CPU/DRAM power - NexFETTM Power Block MOSFET - 60A BlackWing Chokes - 10K Black Metallic Capacitors ROG GameFirst II ROG RAMDisk ROG Exclusive Features CPU Level Up UEFI BIOS features - Extreme Tweaker - Tweaker’s Paradise - ROG SSD Secure Erase - BIOS Print - GPU.DIMM Post - O.C.
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1 x USB 3.0 connector (supports additional 2 USB 3.0 ports) 2 x USB 2.0 connectors (support additional 4USB 2.
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Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard ROG MAXIMUS VI HERO Cables 3 x 2-in-1 SATA 6 Gb/s cables Accessories I/O Shield 1 x SLI® bridge 1 x 12-in-1 ROG cable label 1 x 2-in-1 Q-Connector kit 1 x ROG Door Hanger Application DVD ROG motherboard support DVD Documentation User guide If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
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Installation tools and components 1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver PC chassis Power supply unit Intel LGA 1150 CPU Intel LGA 1150 compatible CPU Fan DDR3 DIMM SATA hard disk drive SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional) The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.
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Chapter 1: Product Introduction Product introduction 1.1 Special features 1.1.1 Product highlights 1 Republic of Gamers The Republic of Gamers offers you the best of the best. We offer the best hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovative ideas, and we welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything. We believe in making statements and we excel in competitions.
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1.1.2 ROG Gaming Features SupremeFX ROG-exclusive SupremeFX audio technology has been re-engineered using a new and unique circuit design. It offers 8-channel HD audio that’s equal in power, clarity, and range to dedicated sound cards. We achieve near-lossless audio quality with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 112dB via use of multi-approach shielding. First, Red Line Shielding isolates audio hardware from the rest of the board to block cross-component interference.
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1.1.3 ROG Exclusive Features Extreme Engine Digi+ III Exclusive engineering and totally digital CPU/memory voltage regulation enable industryleading voltage control on a true manual level for pinpoint tuning accuracy. Among Intelxzc Z87-based motherboards, only ROG offers fully manual voltage tuning, making our boards perfect for overclocking.
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1.1.5 ROG rich bundled software Kaspersky® Anti-Virus Kaspersky® Anti-Virus Personal offers premium antivirus protection for individual users and home offices. It is based on advanced antivirus technologies. The product incorporates the Kaspersky® Anti-Virus engine, which is renowned for malicious program detection rates that are among the industry’s highest. DAEMON Tools Pro Standard DAEMON Tools Pro offers essential functionality to backup CD, DVD and Blu-ray discs.
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1.2 Motherboard overview 1.2.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
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1.2.2 Motherboard layout Chapter 1 Refer to 1.2.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.
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Layout contents Page 1-43 1-42 1-8 1-9 1-31 1-26 1-25 1-25 1-39 1-38 1-39 1-45 1-44 1-27 1-28 1-41 1-46 1-46 1-40 1-40 Chapter 1 Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/Slots 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V) 2. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3) 3. LGA1150 CPU Socket 4. DDR3 DIMM slots 5. Q_Code LEDs 6. MemOK! button 7. START (Power-on) button 8. RESET button 9. USB 3.0 connectors (20-1 pin USB3_12) 10.
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1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1150 socket designed for the 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium®, and Celeron® processors. • �� Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. • Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 only.
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1.2.4 System memory The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.
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Memory configurations You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered and non‑ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. • Memory module with memory frequency higher than 2133 MHz and its corresponding timing or the loaded XMP profile is not the JEDEC memory standard. The stability and compatibility of these memory modules depend on the CPU’s capabilities and other installed devices.
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MAXIMUS VI HERO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 2800 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 AVEXIR AVD3U28001204G-4CI 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 12-14-14-35 1.65V • • CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A2800C11 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 11-14-14-35 1.65V • • CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A2800C12 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 12-14-14-36 1.65V • • G.SKILL F3-2800C11D-8GTXD 8GB ( 2x 4GB ) DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.
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DDR3 2500 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage G.SKILL F3-20000CL10Q-16GBZHD(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 10-11-11-31 1.65 DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 • • DDR3 2400 MHz capability Chapter 1 1-12 Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 A-DATA AX3U2400GC4G10(XMP) 4GB DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.
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DDR3 2200 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) G.SKILL F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4G ( 2x 2G ) DS - - 7-10-10-28 1.65 • GEIL GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.65 • • GEIL GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 8GB ( 2x 4GB ) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 • • 2 4 DDR3 2133 MHz capability Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO.
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DDR3 2000 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 AEXEA AXA3ES2G2000LG28V (XMP) 2GB DS - - - 1.65 • • AEXEA AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V (XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS - - - 1.65 • • Apacer 78.AAGD5.9KD (XMP) 6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-27 - • • Asint SLA302G08-ML2HB (XMP) 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFRH9C 9-9-9-27 - • • G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4GBRH (XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • G.
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DDR3 1866 MHz capability Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage 2 4 A-DATA AX3U1866XW8G10(XMP) 16GB ( 2x 8GB ) DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5 • • CORSAIR CMD16GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver5.29)(XMP) 16GB ( 2x 8GB ) DS - - 1866 9-9-9-27 1.5 • CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A1866C9 (Ver4.13)(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • • CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A1866C9 (Ver8.16)(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • • CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver4.
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DDR3 1800 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage G.SKILL F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 • • DDR3 1600 MHz capability Chapter 1 Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO.
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DDR3 1600 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) CORSAIR CMD16GX3M2A1600C9 (Ver8.21)(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1600C8 (Ver5.12)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB ) DS - - 1600 8-88-24 1.5 • • CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1600C9 (Ver2.12)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB (2x2GB ) DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 • • CORSAIR CML16GX3M4X1600C8 (Ver 2.
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DDR3 1600 MHz capability Chapter 1 Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D8GBRL (XMP) 8GB (2x4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D8GBSR2 (XMP) 8GB (2x4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.25 • • G.SKILL F3-12800CL9Q16GBXL (XMP) 16GB (4x4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • G.Skill F3-12800CL9Q16GBZL (XMP) 16GB (4x4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • G.
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DDR3 1600 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage 2 4 Micron MT16JTF1G64AZ1G6E1 8GB DS Micron D9QBJ - - • • MICRON MT16KTF51264AZ1G6M1 4GB DS MICRON D9PFJ - - • • Micron MT8JTF51264AZ1G6E1 4GB SS Micron D9QBJ - - • • MICRON MT8KTF25664AZ1G6M1 2GB SS MICRON D9PFJ - - • • Mushkin 996805(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB ) DS - - 6-8-6-24 1.65 • • Mushkin 998805(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB ) DS - - 6-8-6-24 1.
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DDR3 1333 MHz capability Chapter 1 Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO.
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DDR3 1333 MHz capability Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB (2x2GB) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA115FW 9-9-9-24 1.3 • • GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB (2x2GB) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA15B 9-9-9-24 1.3 • • GEIL GVP34GB1333C9DC 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • GEIL GVP38GB1333C7QC 8GB (4x2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5 • • GEIL GVP38GB1333C9DC 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.
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DDR3 1333 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 Patriot PGD316G1333ELK (XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.
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1.2.5 Expansion slots Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. Slot Description 1 PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot 2 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16/x8_1 slot 3 PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot 4 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16/x8_2 slot 5 PCIe 2.0 x1_3 slot 6 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x4_3 slot ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO Chapter 1 Slot No.
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PCIe operating mode VGA Configuration Single VGA/PCIe card PCIE_x16/x8_1 PCIE_x8_2 x16 N/A (Recommend for single VGA) x8 Dual VGA/PCIe card x8 • �� We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI® mode.
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1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches Onboard switches and buttons allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. Reset button Press the reset button to reboot the system. Chapter 1 2. Power-on button The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake up the system.
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3. Chapter 1 1-26 MemOK! button Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, triggering the MEMOK_LED near the MemOK! switch to light-up continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! button to start the memory tuning process to load and test failsafe memory settings. • Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the MEMOK_LED. • The MEMOK_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed.
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4. DirectKey button This feature allows your system to go to the BIOS Setup program with the press of a button. With DirectKey, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press the key during POST. It also allows you to turn on or turn off your system and conveniently enter the BIOS during boot-up. Ensure to save your data before using the DirectKey button. When the system is on and you press the DirectKey button, your system will shut down.
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1.2.7 Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3.
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1.2.8 1. Hard Disk LED The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity. It blinks when data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. MemOK! LED Blinking: Indicates that MemOK! is enabled before POST. Chapter 1 2.
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3. Q LED Q LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and booting devices) in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found , the corresponding LED will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds.
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4. BIOS LED The BIOS LEDs help indicate the BIOS activity. Q-Code LEDs The Q-Code LED design provides you with a 2-digit error code that displays the system status. Refer to the Q-Code table on the next page for details. Chapter 1 5.
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Q-Code table Code Description 00 Not used 01 Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard).
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Code Description 50 – 53 Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory speed 54 Unspecified memory initialization error 55 Memory not installed 56 Invalid CPU type or Speed 57 CPU mismatch 58 CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error 59 CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed 00 Not used 01 Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard).
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Q-Code table Chapter 1 Code Description 3B – 3E Post-Memory PCH initialization is started 4F DXE IPL is started 50 – 53 Memory initialization error.
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Code Description F9 Recovery capsule is not found FA Invalid recovery capsule FB – FF Reserved for future AMI error codes 60 DXE Core is started 61 NVRAM initialization 62 Installation of the PCH Runtime Services 63 – 67 CPU DXE initialization is started 68 PCI host bridge initialization 69 System Agent DXE initialization is started 6A System Agent DXE SMM initialization is started 6B – 6F System Agent DXE initialization (System Agent module specific) 70 PCH DXE initialization is st
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Q-Code table Chapter 1 Code Description 9C USB Detect 9D USB Enable 9E – 9F Reserved for future AMI codes A0 IDE initialization is started A1 IDE Reset A2 IDE Detect A3 IDE Enable A4 SCSI initialization is started A5 SCSI Reset A6 SCSI Detect A7 SCSI Enable A8 Setup Verifying Password A9 Start of Setup AA Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below) AB Setup Input Wait AC Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below) AD Ready To Boot event AE Legacy Bo
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Q-Code table Code Description D2 PCH initialization error D3 Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available D4 PCI resource allocation error.
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1.2.9 1. Internal connectors Intel Z87 Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6 [red]) ® These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6 Gb/s signal cables. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z87 chipset. • �� These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default.
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3. ASMedia® Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1/2 [red]) These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6 Gb/s signal cables. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12) This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.0 module for additional USB 3.0 front or rear panel ports. With an installed USB 3.0 module, you can enjoy all the benefits of USB 3.
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4. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The S/PDIF module is purchased separately. 5. Chapter 1 1-40 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard.
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6. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112; USB1314) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to 48 MBps connection speed. Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors.
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7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3) Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. • DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components.
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8. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V) These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit. • �� For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.
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9. • • • • • System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin HDD_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED.
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10. DirectKey connector (2-pin DRCT) This connector is for the chassis-mounted button that supports the DirectKey function. Connect the button cable that supports DirectKey, from the chassis to this connector on the motherboard. Chapter 1 Ensure that your chassis comes with the extra button cable that supports the DirectKey feature. Refer to the technical documentation that came with the chassis for details.
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11 ROG Extension - ROG_EXT connector (18-1 pin ROG_EXT) This connector is for the OC Panel. The OC Panel allows you to perform overclocking without going to the BIOS settings, loading the OS, or using overclocking software utilities. The OC Panel is purchased separately. 12. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which securely store keys, digital certificates, passwords and data.
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Chapter 2: Basic Installation Basic Installation 2.1 Building your PC system 2.1.1 Motherboard installation 2 The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps are the same for all models. Install the ASUS Q-Shield to the chassis rear I/O panel. 2. Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to the chassis’ rear I/O panel. Chapter 2 1.
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3. Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. Chapter 2 DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
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2.1.2 CPU installation Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1150 socket.
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2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation Apply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before you install the heatsink and fan if necessary.
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To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly 1 2 A B B Chapter 2 A ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-5
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2.1.
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2.1.
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2.1.
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2.1.7 Front I/O Connector To install ASUS Q-Connector 2 1 To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector AAFP USB 2.0 Chapter 2 To install USB 3.0 connector USB 3.
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2.1.
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2.2 BIOS update utility USB BIOS Flashback USB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the existing BIOS or operating system. Simply insert a USB storage device to the USB port, press the USB BIOS Flashback button for three seconds, and the BIOS is updated automatically. To use USB BIOS Flashback: 1. �� Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website 2. Extract and rename the BIOS image file to M6H.CAP. 3. Copy M6H.
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2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 �� Keyboard/Mouse combo port 2. Intel® USB 2.0 port 9 and 10 3. Optical �� S/PDIF OUT port 4. Intel® USB 3.0 port 3 and 4 5. LAN �� (RJ-45) port* 6. Intel ��® USB 2.0 port 7 and 8 7. USB �� BIOS Flashback button 8. HDMI port Chapter 2 9. Intel ��® USB 3.0 port 5 and 6 10.
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• Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under Windows® OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation. • USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only. • We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices. • Due to the design of the Intel® 8 series chipset, all USB devices connected to the USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller.
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Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.
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Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Chapter 2 Connect to 5.
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Connect to 7.
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2.4 Starting up for the first time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Ensure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. 5. Turn on the devices in the following order: 6. a. Monitor b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain) c.
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Chapter 2 2-18 Chapter 2: Basic Installation
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup BIOS setup 3.1 Knowing BIOS 3 The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unified Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboardonly BIOS controls to enable a more flexible and convenient mouse input. You can easily navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as your operating system. The term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specified.
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3.2 BIOS setup program Use the BIOS Setup to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS screen include navigation keys and brief onscreen help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program. Entering BIOS at startup To enter BIOS Setup at startup: • Press during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press , POST continues with its routines. Entering BIOS Setup after POST To enter BIOS Setup after POST: • Press ++ simultaneously.
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3.2.1 EZ Mode The EZ Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access the Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode or press hot key for the advanced BIOS settings. The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the Setup Mode item in section 3.8 Boot menu for details.
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3.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations. To access the Advanced Mode, click Exit, then select Advanced Mode or press F7 hotkey.
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Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (My Favorites, Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. Back button This button appears when entering a submenu. Press or use the USB mouse to click this button to return to the previous menu screen.
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Last Modified button This button shows the items that you last modified and saved in BIOS Setup. 3.3 My Favorites MyFavorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items. Adding items to My Favorites To add frequently-used BIOS items to My Favorites: 1. Use the arrow keys to select an item that you want to add. When using a mouse, hover the pointer to the item. 2. Press on your keyboard or right-click on your mouse to add the item to My Favorites page.
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3.4 Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Extreme Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction The configuration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you installed on the motherboard. Chapter 3 Scroll down to display other BIOS items.
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Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options: [Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system. [X.M.P.] If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the profiles supported by your memory modules for optimizing the system performance.
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When the CPU Core Ratio is set to [Per Core], the following item appears: 1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto] Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 1-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 2-Core Ratio Limit. 2-Core Ratio Limit [Auto] Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 2-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3-Core Ratio Limit.
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Xtreme Tweaking [Disabled] This item may help improve some benchmarks performance. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU Graphics Max. Ratio [Auto] Allows you to automatically optimize the CPU Graphics Ratio or manually set a value for an optimal CPU Graphics Ratio. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the CPU graphics ratio. The minimum value depends on the installed CPU.
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Secondary Timings DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15] DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [511] DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [65535] DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [16] DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15] DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [255] DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto
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DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D0) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D0 [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D1 [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D0 [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHB_R1D0 [Auto] Config
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tRDWR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] tRDWR_dr [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] tRDWR_dd [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] MISC MRC Fast Boot [Auto] Allows you to enable, disable or automatically set the MRC fast boot. Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled] DRAM CLK Period [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [14] Channel A DIMM Control [Enable Bot...
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DIGI+ Power Control CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] Load-line is defined by Intel® VRM specification and affects CPU power voltage. The CPU working voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking performance but increases the CPU and VRM thermal conditions. Select from Level 1 to Level 8 to adjust CPU power voltage from 0% to 100%. • The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specification.
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CPU Power Phase Control [Auto] Allows you to set the power phase control of the CPU. [Standard] Set the phase control based on the CPU command. [Optimized] Set the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile. [Extreme] Set the full phase mode [Manual Adjustment] Set manually to a faster phase response to increase system performance or to slower phase response to increase DRAM power efficiency. DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to [Extreme] and [Manual Adjustment].
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CPU Power Thermal Control [130] A higher temperature brings a wider CPU power thermal range and extends the overclocking tolerance to enlarge the O.C. potential. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 130 to 151. DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored. CPU Input Boot Voltage [Auto] VCCIN for the CPU right at boot. Configuration options: [Auto] [0.800] – [2.
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Tweakers’ Paradise The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features. BCLK Tuning VCCIN Shadow Voltage [Auto] Pseudo Voltage for VCCIN. Configuration options: [Auto] [0.800] – [2.440V] Termination Anti-Aliasing [Auto] Termination Anti-Aliasing. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Initial PLL Termination Voltage [Auto] Initial Voltage at which CPU BCLKs are terminated. Maintaining a level close to CPU Input Voltage will help BCLK Overclock.
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PCIE Tuning Internal Graphics [Auto] Keep IGD enabled based on setup options. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Power Management The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features. Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled] Allows the operating system to dynamically adjust the processor voltage and cores frequency to decrease the average power consumption and decrease average heat production.
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CPU Internal Power Fault Control Thermal Feedback [Auto] Allows the CPU to take precautionary actions when the thermal conditions of the external regulator exceeds the threshold. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Integrated VR Fault Management [Auto] Allows you to prevent tripping the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator when doing over-voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] We recommend to set this item to [Disable] when overclocking.
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Power Fast Ramp Response [Auto] Allows you to increase to enhance the response of the voltage regulator during the load transient. Configuration options: [Auto] [0.00] - [1.50] CPU Internal Power Saving Control Power Saving Level 1 Threshold [Auto] Lower value provides sufficient overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking potential. Higher value provides better power-saving condition. Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from 0A to 80A at 1Amp increment.
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CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto] Configures the amount of Voltage fed to the onboard graphics unit on the processor. Increase when increasing IGPU Frequency. Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from -0.999V to 0.999V at 0.001V increment. CPU System Agent Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+] Configures the amount of Voltage offset applied to the System Agent of the processor including it is PCIE Controller and Power Control Unit. Increase when increasing DRAM Frequency.
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PCH VLX Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the PCH VLX voltage. Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from 0.8000V to 2.0000V at 0.00625V increment. PCH Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the PCH voltage. Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from 0.7000V to 1.8000V at 0.00625V increment. VTTDDR Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the VTTDDR voltage. Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from 0.6000V to 1.4000V at 0.00625V increment.
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3.5 Main menu The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings. Security • Chapter 3 The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.2.
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Administrator Password If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to see or change only selected fields in the BIOS setup program. To set an administrator password: 1. Select the Administrator Password item and press . 2. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press . 3. Confirm the password when prompted. To change an administrator password: 1.
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To change a user password: 1. Select the User Password item and press . 2. From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press . 3. From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press . 4. Confirm the password when prompted. To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press when prompted to create/confirm the password.
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3.6.1 CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. The items in this menu may vary based on the CPU installed. Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down. Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.
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Execute Disable Bit [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology. [Disabled] Forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0). Intel® Virtualization Technology [Disabled] [Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several systems. [Disabled] Disables this function.
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Enhanced C1 state [Enabled] Allows your processor to reduce power when the system is in idle mode. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU C3 Report [Enabled] Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to the operating system. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU C6 Report [Enabled] Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to the operating system. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] C6 Latency [Short] Allows you to set the duration of C6 latency for C6 state.
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ASPM Support [Disabled] Allows you to set the ASPM level. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [L0s] [L1] [L0sL1] PCIe Speed [Auto] Allows you to select the PCI Express port speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] Intel (R) Rapid Start Technology [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable Intel Rapid Start Technology. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] The following items appear only when you set the Intel® Rapid Start Technology to [Enabled].
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3.6.3 SATA Configuration While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The SATA Port items show Empty if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA port. Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. SATA Mode Selection [AHCI] Allows you to set the SATA configuration. [Disabled] [IDE] [AHCI] Chapter 3 [RAID] Disables the SATA function. Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices.
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S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled] S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning messages during the POST. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Hot Plug [Disabled] (SATA6G_1 - SATA6G_6 [Red]) These items appear only when you set the SATA Mode Selection item to [AHCI] or [RAID], and allow you to enable/disable SATA Hot Plug Support.
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iGPU Memory [Auto] Allows you to select the amount of system memory allocated to DVMT 5.0 by the iGPU. Configuration options: [Auto] [32M] [64M] [96M] [128M] [160M] [192M] [224M] [256M] [288M] [320M] [352M] [384M] [416M] [448M] [480M] [512M] [1024M] Render Standby [Auto] Allows you to enable the Intel® Graphics Render Standby support to reduce iGPU power use when the system is idle.
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3.6.5 USB Configuration The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features. The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None. Legacy USB Support [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS). The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program. It cannot be recognized in boot devices list. Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup.
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3.6.6 Platform Misc Configuration The items in this menu allow you to configure the platform-related features. PCI Express Native Power Management [Disabled] Allows you to enhance the power saving feature of PCI Express and perform ASPM operations in the operating system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following item appears only when you set the PCI Express Native Power Management to [Enabled].
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3.6.7 Onboard Devices Configuration Scroll down to view the other BIOS items. HD Audio Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the High Definition Audio Controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller. The following items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller to [Enabled]. Front Panel Type [HD] Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.
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ASM1061 Storage Controller (SATA6G_E12) [Enabled] Allows you to select the ASM1061 storage controller operating mode. [Disabled] [Enabled] Disables the ASM1061 storage controller. Enables the ASM1061 storage controller. Hot-plug [Disabled] Allows you to set the Hot Plug support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] PCI Express X4_3 slot (black) bandwidth [X1 mode] [X1 mode] [X4 mode] PCIeX4_3 slots runs at X1 mode with all slots enabled.
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3.6.8 APM ErP Ready [Disabled] Allows you to switch off some power at S4+S5 or S5 to get the system ready for ErP requirement. When set to [Enabled], all other PME options will be switched off. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled (S4+S5] [Enabled (S5)] Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off] [Power On] The system goes into ON state after an AC power loss. [Last State] The system goes into either OFF or ON state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss.
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3.6.9 Network Stack Network Stack [Disabled] This item allows you to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enable] The following items appear only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled]. Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE boot option. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.6.
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3.7 Monitor menu The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings. Anti Surge Support [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Voltage Monitor CPU Core 0-3 Voltage; CPU Cache Voltage; CPU System Agent Voltage; CPU Analog I/O Voltage; CPU Digital I/O Voltage; CPU Input Voltage; DRAM Voltage; PCH Voltage; 3.
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Fan Speed Control CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto] [Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. [Auto] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. [Advance Mode] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. The following items appear only when you set the CPU Q-Fan Control to [Advance Mode] and [Auto]. CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] Allows you to disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.
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Chassis1/Chassis2/Chassis3 Q-Fan Control [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature. [Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature. Chassis1/Chassis2/Chassis3 Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.
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3.8 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. Boot Configuration Fast Boot [Enabled] [Disabled] Allows your system to go back to its normal boot speed. [Enabled] Allows your system to accelerate the boot speed. The following items appear only when you set the Fast Boot to [Enabled]. SATA Support [All Sata D...] USB Support [Partial In...
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Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot] [Normal Boot] [Fast Boot] Returns to normal boot on the next boot after an AC power loss. Accelerates the boot speed on the next boot after an AC power loss. HW Fast Boot [Disabled] Allows the system to enable or disable the HW Fast Boot. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] DirectKey Enable [Go to BIOS...] [Disabled] [Go to BIOS Setup] Disables the DirectKey button. The system will only power on or off when you press the DirectKey button.
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Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS] [Force BIOS] [Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot sequence. The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so. Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19.
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Secure Boot Allows you to configure the Windows® Secure Boot settings and manage its keys to protect the system from unauthorized access and malwares during POST. OS Type [Windows UE..] [Windows UEFI Mode] Allows you to select your installed operating system. Execute the Microsoft® Secure Boot check. Only select this option when booting on Windows® UEFI mode or other Microsoft® Secure Boot compliant OS. [Other OS] Get the optimized function when booting on Windows® nonUEFI mode.
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Key-exchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft® Secure Boot Key-Enrollment Key (KEK). Delete the KEK Allows you to delete the KEK from your system. Configuration options: [Yes] [No] Load KEK from File Allows you to load the downloaded KEK from a USB storage device. Append KEK from File Allows you to load the additional KEK from a storage device for an additional db and dbx loaded management. The KEK file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated variable.
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3.9 Tools menu 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the submenu. Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press , a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press to confirm your choice. For more details, refer to section 3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility. 3.9.
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Displays the available SSDs Click to start the SSD Secure Erase Status definition: Frozen The frozen state is the result of a BIOS protective measure. The BIOS guards drives that do not have password protection by freezing them prior to booting. If the drive is frozen, a power off or hard reset of your PC must be performed to proceed with the Secure Erase. Locked SSDs might be locked if the Secure Erase process is either incomplete or was stopped.
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3.9.3 ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. The O.C. Profile Configuration items show Not Installed if no profile is created. Add your CMOS Profile Label Allows you to input the label of the setup profiles. Save to Profile Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a profile. Key in a profile number from one to eight, press , and then select Yes.
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3.9.4 ASUS SPD Information 3.9.5 ROG OC Panel H-Key Configure Allows you to view the DRAM SPD information. The ROG OC Panel H-Key Configure allows you to input and save values on the CPU core voltage, CPU input voltage, BCLK Frequency, and CPU ratio in the UEFI BIOS. The saved values can be synchronized to a compatible OC Panel device and these values can be tweaked or configured using the OC Panel without going to the BIOS menu.
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CPU Input Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to configure the input voltage to the cores of the processor. You can use <+> or <-> key to raise the voltage by an increment of 0.010V. The minimum voltage is 0.800V and the maximum voltage is 3.040V. BCLK Frequency [Auto] This item allows you to input values to the Base Clock (BCLK) Frequency that ranges from 60 MHz to 300 MHz. CPU Ratio [Auto] This item allows you to the adjust the CPU ratio.
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3.10 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit menu. Load Optimized Defaults This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press , a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to load the default values.
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3.11 Updating BIOS The ASUS website publishes the latest BIOS versions to provide enhancements on system stability, compatibility, or performance. However, BIOS updating is potentially risky. If there is no problem using the current version of BIOS, DO NOT manually update the BIOS. Inappropriate BIOS updating may result in the system’s failure to boot. Carefully follow the instructions of this chapter to update your BIOS if necessary. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.
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3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a bootable floppy disk or an OS‑based utility. Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www.asus.com. To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: Chapter 3 3-54 1. Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port. 2. Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program.
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• �� This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only. • �� DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.
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3.11.4 ASUS BIOS Updater The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update the BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may not be same as shown. Before updating BIOS 1. Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive in FAT32/16 format and single partition. 2.
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3. When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by pressing the item number. 4. At the FreeDOS prompt, type d: and press to switch the disk from Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB flash drive). Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)! C:\>d: D:\> Updating the BIOS file To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater: 1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /g and press . D:\>bupdater /pc /g 2. The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.
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4. Select Yes and press . When BIOS update is done, press to exit BIOS Updater. Restart your computer. DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! • �� For BIOS Updater version 0224 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS prompt after updating BIOS.
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Chapter 4: Software support Software support 4.1 Installing an operating system • 4 This motherboard supports Windows® 8 32/64-bit and Windows® 7 32/64-bit operating systems (OS). • �� Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information. 4.
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Support DVD main menu The Drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to use the devices. The Manual menu contains the list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. The Video menu contains ROG related videos. Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information.
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3. Some software manuals are provided in different languages. Open the language’s folder to view the software manual. The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual software manuals containing in the support DVD vary by models. 4.3 Software information 4.4 AI Suite 3 Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software application for more information.
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Windows® 8 OS 1. Place the Support DVD into the optical drive then follow onscreen instructions. 2. From the ASUS motherboard support DVD main menu, select the Utilities tab and click AI Suite 3. 3. Follow the succeeding onscreen instructions. If the ASUS motherboard support DVD main menu did not appear, try the following steps: a. Go to the Start Screen then click or tap the Desktop app. b.
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AI Suite 3 Main menu The AI Suite 3 main menu gives you easy-access controls and insight to what’s going on with your computer - allowing you to optimize performance settings while at the same time ensuring system stability. Included in the AI Suite 3 main menu is a quick-access menu bar that allows you to swiftly launch any of the integrated ASUS utilities. Click or tap the on the top-edge of menu to launch the menu bar.
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4.4.1 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 comes with these five utilities in one interface: 4-Way Optimization, TurboV Processing Unit (TPU), Energy Processing Unit (EPU), DIGI+ Power Control, and Fan Xpert 2. 4-Way Optimization The 4-Way Optimization utility allows you to automatically tweak the TPU, EPU, DIGI + Power Control and Fan Xpert 2 to their optimal settings.
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TurboV Processing Unit (TPU) ASUS TPU allows you to manually adjust the CPU frequency, CPU Cache and Core frequencies, DRAM frequency, and related voltages for an enhanced system stability and boost performance. Refer to the CPU documentation before adjusting CPU voltage settings. Setting a high voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may lead to an unstable system.
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Voltage Drag the slider to adjust CPU Core, CPU Cache, CPU Analog I/O, PCH Interfacing, VTTDDR, and PCHVLX voltages. Drag the slider to adjust DRAM, CPU System Agent, CPU Digital I/O, PCH, CPU Input, and PLL Termination voltages.
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Energy Processing Unit (EPU) EPU is an enery-processing utility that allows you to adjust the CPU, GPU, and Fan Control settings to their power-saving conditions.
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DIGI+ Power Control DIGI+ Power Control allows you to adjust the VRM voltage and frequency for optimal system efficiency, overall system stability and performance. CPU Power You can configure the following CPU Power items: • • • • • CPU Power Duty Control CPU Power Duty Control adjusts the current of every VRM phase and the thermal conditions of every phase component. CPU Load-line Calibration CPU Load-line Calibration adjusts the voltage range and controls the system temperature.
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Fan Xpert 2 Fan Xpert 2 automatically detects and tweaks the fan speeds, and provides you with optimized fan settings based on the fans’ specifications and positions.
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RPM Mode RPM Mode allows you to set the fan speed when the CPU temperature is below 75oC. Click and drag to adjust the fan’s speed Click to undo the changes Click to go back to the previous screen Click to apply the changes Click to switch between the CPU and chassis fan screens • When the CPU temperature reaches 75o C, the fan will automatically run at full speed to protect the CPU. • For motherboard models without the CPU fan detection latch, only 4-pin CPU fans are controllable in Fan Xpert 2.
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4.4.2 EZ Update EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s softwares, drivers and the BIOS version easily. With this utlity, you can also manually update the BIOS and select the boot logo that will display during POST. Launching EZ Update To launch EZ Update, click AI Suite 3 main menu bar.
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4.4.3 USB 3.0 Boost USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) that automatically speeds up the transfer rates of your USB storage devices. Launching USB 3.0 Boost To launch USB 3.0 Boost, click on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar. on the top edge of the screen, then click USB 3.0 Boost Using the USB 3.0 Boost 1. Connect your USB 3.0 device to the USB 3.0 port. 2. From the USB 3.0 Boost screen, select a USB device. 3. To enable UASP on your USB device, click UASP.
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4.4.4 System Information This utility allows you get the detailed information of the motherboard, CPU, and memory settings. Launching the System Information To launch System Information, click on the top edge of the screen, then click System Information on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar. Viewing the motherboard information From the System Information screen, click MB tab to view the motherboard’s information.
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Viewing the SPD information From the System Information screen, click SPD tab to view the memory’s information.
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4.4.5 USB BIOS Flashback USB BIOS Flashback allows you to check and save the latest BIOS version to a USB storage device. Use this utility to quickly check for the latest available BIOS and set the BIOS download schedule. USB BIOS Flashback screen Set a schedule for the BIOS Update download Click to check for a new BIOS update available for download Current BIOS information Click to cancel the download schedule setting Click to apply the download schedule setting Scheduling the BIOS download 1.
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4.4.6 USB Charger+ USB Charger+ allows you to quick-charge your portable USB devices even if your computer is off, in sleep mode or hibernate mode. Before using USB Charger+, ensure to disable the ErP Ready item from the Advanced > APM > ErP Ready in the Advanced mode of the BIOS Setup program. Launching USB Charger+ To launch USB Charger+, click on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar.
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4.4.7 Audio configurations The Realtek audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your computer. The software provides Jack-Sensing function, S/PDIF Out support, and interrupt capability. The CODEC also includes the Realtek® proprietary UAJ® (Universal Audio Jack) technology for all audio ports, eliminating cable connection errors, and giving users plug and play convenience.
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4.5 MemTweakIt MemTweakIt is a software that you can use to view all levels of memory timings. You can validate your MemTweakIt settings to generate a memory efficiency score that you can share and compare with other users on the ROG website. To use MemTweakIt, double-click on the desktop. Click About tab and click REPUBLIC OF GAMERS to access ROG official website. Click OK to exit MemTweakIt.
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Validating and saving your MemTweakIt settings To validate and save your configuration online: 1. Launch MemTweakIt and click Validate. 2. In Online Mode, key in your ASUS account ID and password, and click Submit. Your configuration will be displayed in MemTweakIt webpage. 1. Launch MemTweakIt and click Validate. 2. In Manual Mode, click Save Configuration File. 3. Key in a file name for your configuration file and click Save. 4. Click validation webpage. 5.
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4.6 RAMDisk RAMDisk is a data-storage software that reserves a part of your system’s memory and turns it into a high-speed virtual drive where you can store cache files and game apps for instant access. The following folders are not suitable for RAMDisk optimization. Moving them into the RAMDisk might negatively affectm the performance of your system. • Swap file/Page file: The swap file is a permanent storage space used as the virtual memory expansion of the system memory.
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To delete an existing RAMDisk drive: Click to delete the existing RAMDisk Creating/Deleting a Junction Point A junction point creates a link that remaps the original contents into the RAMDisk, enabling access to the desired application or data to be done purely within the original file location.
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Synchronizing backup files After creating a junction point, RAMDisk automatically creates a backup folder in the file’s original location. Use RAMDisk to manually synchronize updates with these backup files.
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Chapter 5: RAID support RAID support 5.1 RAID configurations The motherboard supports the following SATA RAID solutions: • 5 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support. If you want to install a Windows® operating system to a hard disk drive included in a RAID set, you have to create a RAID driver disk and load the RAID driver during OS installation. Refer to section 5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk for details. 5.1.
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5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array. To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration: 1. Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays. 2. Connect the SATA signal cables. 3. Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive. 5.1.
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5.1.4 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility To enter the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility: 1. Turn on the system. 2. During POST, press + to display the utility main menu. Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.5.1.1070 Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ MAIN 1. Create RAID Volume 2. Delete RAID Volume 3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID MENU ] 4. Recovery Volume Options 5. Acceleration Options 6.
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Creating a RAID set To create a RAID set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press . The following screen appears: Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.5.1.1070 Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE VOLUME MENU ] Name: Volume0 RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Sync: Create volume [ HELP ] Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is 16 characters or less.
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5. Use the up/down arrow key to select a drive, and then press to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press after completing your selection. 6. Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID array (for RAID 0, 10 and 5 only),and then press . The available stripe size values range from 4KB to 128KB.
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Deleting a RAID set Be cautious when deleting a RAID set. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID set. To delete a RAID set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 2. Delete RAID Volume and press . The following screen appears: [ DELETE VOLUME MENU ] Name Volume0 Level Drives RAID0(Stripe) 2 Capacity 298.0GB Status Normal Bootable Yes [ HELP ] Deleting a volume will reset the disks to non-RAID. WARNING: ALL DISK DATA WILL BE DELETED.
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Exiting the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility To exit the utility: 1. From the utility main menu, select 5. Exit, and then press .
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5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing a Windows® operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. The motherboard does not provide a floppy drive connector. You have to use a USB floppy disk drive when creating a SATA RAID driver disk. 5.2.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS: 1. Boot your computer. 2.
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5.2.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation To install the RAID driver for Windows® 7 or later OS: 1. During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation media containing the RAID driver. 2. Insert the USB flash drive with RAID driver into the USB port or the support DVD into the optical drive, and then click Browse. 3.
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Chapter 5 5-10 Chapter 5: RAID support
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Appendices Appendices Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • • This device may not cause harmful interference. This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. 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.
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IC: Canadian Compliance Statement Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B speciﬁcations. This device complies with RSS 210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations. This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s).
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REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm. DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling.
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Bluetooth Industry Canada Statement This Class B device meets all requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations. Cet appareil numérique de la Class B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
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ASUS contact information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address Telephone Fax E-mail Web site Technical Support Telephone Online support 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259 +886-2-2894-3447 +886-2-2890-7798 info@asus.com.tw www.asus.com.tw +86-21-38429911 support.asus.
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(510)739-3777/(510)608-4555 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539. Asus Computer International Signature : Date : Representative Person’s Name : May 06, 2013 Steve Chang / President 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.