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Motherboard

Z97-WS

Summary of content (186 pages)

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Motherboard Z97-WS
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E12543b Revised Edition V2 February 2017 Copyright© 2017 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 Z97-WS specifications summary............................................................................... ix Package contents.......................................................................................................
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Chapter 3: Knowing BIOS............................................................................................. 3-1 3.2 BIOS setup program................................................................................... 3-2 3.2.1 EZ Mode...................................................................................... 3-3 3.2.2 Advanced Mode........................................................................... 3-4 3.2.3 QFan Control....................................................
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4.4.1 Ai Charger+.................................................................................. 4-7 4.4.2 USB 3.0 Boost............................................................................. 4-8 4.4.3 EZ Update.................................................................................... 4-9 4.4.4 USB BIOS Flashback................................................................. 4-11 4.4.5 USB Charger+............................................................................
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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: 1. 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. 2.
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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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Z97-WS specifications summary CPU LGA1150 socket for the 4th Generation and New 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel® Core™ i5/ Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0* * The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU types. Chipset Memory Intel® Z97 Express Chipset 4 x DIMM, max. 32 GB, DDR3 3300 (O.C.)* / 3200 (O.C.)* / 3100 (O.C.)* / 3000 (O.C.)* / 2933 (O.C.)* /2800 (O.C.)* / 2666 (O.C.)* / 2600 (O.C.)* / 2500 (O.C.)* / 2400 (O.
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Z97-WS specifications summary Storage - 4 x SATA 6 Gb/s ports (gray) - Supports Intel® Smart Response Technology, Intel® Rapid Start Technology, Intel® Smart Connect Technology** ASMedia® SATA Express controller*** - 1 x SATA Express ports (black at top slot, compatible with 2 x SATA 6 Gb/s ports) ASMedia® SATA 6 Gb/s controller*** - 1 x eSATA 6 Gb/s ports * M.2 Socket 3 shares bandwidth with SATAExpress_1, and supports M Key and type 2260/2280 storage devices.
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Z97-WS specifications summary ASUS Exclusive Features High Performance 5-Way Optimization by Dual Intelligent Processors 5 - Whole system optimization with a single click! 5-Way Optimization tuning key perfectly consolidates TPU, EPU, DIGI+ Power Control, Fan Xpert 3, and the whole new Turbo APP together, providing better CPU performance, efficient power saving, precise digital power control, whole system cooling and even tailor your own app usages.
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Z97-WS specifications summary ASUS Exclusive Features Gaming Scenario Turbo APP - Featuring tuning system performance customization, network priority, and automatic audio scene configurations for selected applications Turbo LAN - Experience smooth online gaming with lower pings and less lags Q Stereo - Feel the sound power with different usage scenarios.
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Z97-WS specifications summary ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution Quiet Thermal Design ASUS Exclusive Overclocking Features Precision Tweaker 2 - ASUS Fan Xpert 3 - ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-pipe solution - vCore: Adjustable CPU Core voltage at 0.001 V increment - iGPU: Adjustable CPU Graphics voltage at 0.001 V increment - vCCIO: Adjustable Analog and Digital I/O voltage at 0.001 V increment - vCCIN: Adjustable CPU Input voltage at 0.01 V increment - vCCSA: Adjustable CPU System Agent voltage at 0.
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Z97-WS specifications summary Internal I/O connectors 4 x SATA 6Gb/s Connectors (4 x gray) 1 x 4-pin CPU Fan connector for both 3-pin (DC mode) and 4-pin (PWM mode) CPU coolers control* 1 x 4-pin CPU Optional Fan connector (CPU_OPT) 4 x 4-pin Chassis Fan connectors for 3-pin (DC mode) and 4-pin (PWM mode) coolers control 1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP) 1 x S/PDIF out header 1 x 5-pin Thunderbolt header for Thunderbolt add-on card support 1 x TPM connector 1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector 2 x 8-pin
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Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items nual User Ma ASUS Z97-WS motherboard User manual Support DVD 8 x Serial ATA 6 Gb/s cables COM port bracket 1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge connector 1 x ASUS 4-Way SLI™ bridge connector 1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI™ bridge connector 1 x 2-in-1 Q-connector 1 x I/O Shield xv
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Installation tools and components Intel® LGA1150 CPU Intel® LGA1150 compatible CPU Fan PC chassis SATA hard disk drive Phillips (cross) screwdriver DIMM 1 bag of screws Power supply unit SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card 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 LGA1150 socket for New 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel® Core™ i5/Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors This motherboard supports new 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel® Core™ i5/Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium®, and Celeron® processors in the LGA1150 package. It provides great graphics and system performance with its GPU, dual-channel DDR3 memory slots and PCI Express 2.0/3.
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Dual-Channel DDR3 3400 (O.C) / 1600 / 1333 MHz Support The motherboard supports the dual-channel DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of DDR3 3400 (O.C.)* / 1600 / 1333 MHz to boost the system’s performance, and to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of 3D graphics, multimedia and Internet applications. M.2 Support This motherboard features the M.2 slot, which shares bandwidth with PCI Express x2 slot to speed up data transfer up to 10 Gb/s.
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Beat Thermal Chokes ASUS Beat Thermal Chokes deliver great durability, minimal power loss, and up to 93% power efficiency under normal operation. A special fin design results in 3-5oC lower choke temperatures for added stability, which is increased exponentially by use of highly conductive and efficient gold-treated coating. 1.1.
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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. • Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity. • Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
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1.2.2 Motherboard layout 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 2 24.4cm(9.6in) TPU CPU_OPT SPDIFO _HDMI _DP EPU CPU_FAN MemOK! 8 +12V_PWR LED EATX12V ESATA6G _USB56 DRAM_LED TPU_LED EATX12V1 ASM 1442K CHA_FAN4 I II OLED2 ASP 1257 TPU 9 XLED1 EZ_XMP PLX 8747 CHA_FAN1 VGA_LED EATX12V_1 ICS 9DB433AGLF PCIEX1_1 11 USB3_34 PCIEX16_1 2 CHA_FAN3 12 DR.Power LED Z97-WS DR_POWER SATA6G_E2 SATA6G_E1 SATA6G_5 SATA6G_6 PCIEX1_2 Lithium Cell CMOS Power Super I/O VIA 1394 6315N ALC 1150 M.
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Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/Slots 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 2 x 8-pin EATX12V) 2. CPU, CPU optional, and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1-4 ) 3. LGA1150 CPU socket 4. CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) 5. EPU switch 6. TPU switch 7. DDR3 DIMM slots 8. MemOK! button 9. EZ XMP switch 10. M.2 Socket 3 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. Chapter 1 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 1-6 Page USB 3.
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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 and the New 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium®, and Celeron® processors. Z97-WS Z97-WS CPU LGA1150 Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1150 socket. Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
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1.2.4 System memory The motherboard comes with eight DDR 3 (Double Data Rate 3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2 DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 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 Z97-WS • You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. • According to Intel® CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65 V is recommended to protect the CPU.
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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. PCIEX16_1 PCIEX1_1 Z97-WS PCIEX16_2 PCIEX4_1 PCIEX16_3 PCIEX1_2 PCIEX16_4 Slot No. Chapter 1 1-10 Slot Description 1 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot 2 PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot 3 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot 4 PCIe 2.0 x4 slot 5 PCIe 3.0/2.0x16_3 slot 6 PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot 7 PCIe 3.0/2.
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PCI Express 3.0 operating mode Slot No. Single VGA x16 1 SLI CrossFireX x16 (single VGA recommended) 3 - 5 - 7 - - 3-WAY SLI CrossFireX 4-WAY SLI CrossFireX x8 x8 x8 x8 x16 x8 - x8 x16 (dual VGA recommended) - We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode. • Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.
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IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCIe x16_1 shared – – – – – – – PCIe x16_2 PCIe x16_3 PCIe x16_4 PCIe x4_1 PCIe x1_1 PCIe x1_2 SMBUS Controller VIA1394 SATA Controller Intel® LAN1 (i218) Intel® LAN1 (i210) – shared – – – shared – – – – – shared – – – shared – – – – shared – – – – shared – – – – – – shared – – – – shared – – – – – shared – – – – – shared – shared – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – ASMedia SATA Controller 1 (1061)
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1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches Onboard buttons and switches 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. 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. MemOK! button Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! button lights continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot. Z97-WS Z97-WS MemOK! button Chapter 1 1-14 • Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED. • The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed.
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4. TPU switch With its two-level adjustment functions, the TPU allows you to automatically adjusts the CPU ratio and clock speed for an optimal system performance. • Enable this switch when the system is powered off. • When the TPU switch is set to Enabled (TPU_I: CPU Ratio Boost), the system automatically adjusts the CPU ratio for an enhanced performance.
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5. EPU switch Enable this switch to automatically detect the current PC loadings and intelligently moderate the power consumption. Enable this switch when the system is powered off. EPU Disable (Default) Enable Z97-WS Z97-WS EPU switch 6. • The EPU LED (OLED2) near the EPU switch lights up when the EPU switch is enabled. Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the EPU LED.
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7. EZ XMP switch Enable this switch to overclock the installed DIMMs, allowing you to enhance the DIMM’s speed and performance. EZ_XMP Disable (Default) Enable Z97-WS Z97-WS EZ_XMP switch 8. ASUS Dr. POWER switch This switch allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Dr. Power feature. Install the bundled ASUS Dr. Power Utility then enable this switch to allow the system to display notification messages in your Windows screen if a problem is detected with your Power Supply Unit (PSU).
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1.2.7 1. Jumpers CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) The CPU Over Voltage jumper allows you to set a higher CPU voltage for a flexible overclocking system, depending on the type of the installed CPU. To gain more CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 2-3. To go back to its default CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 1-2. Z97-WS 1 2 CPU_OV Disable (default setting) 2 3 Enable Z97-WS CPU_OV setting 1.2.8 1.
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2. TPU LED (TPU_LED) The TPU LED lights up when the TPU switch is enabled. TPU_LED Z97-WS Z97-WS TPU LEDs 3. EPU LED (OLED2) The EPU LED lights up when the EPU switch is enabled. OLED2 Z97-WS Z97-WS EPU LED 4. Power LED (+12V_PWR LED) This LED lights up when you turn on the system using the Power-on button.
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5. ASUS Dr. Power LED (DR_POWER LED) The ASUS Dr. Power LED near the ASUS Dr. Power switch lights up when the ASUS Dr. Power switch is on Enable. Z97-WS DR.POWER LED Z97-WS DR_POWER LED 6. PWR_SUPPLY LED The ASUS Dr. Power LED near the EATX PWR connector lights up when the ASUS Dr. Power switch setting is on and the power supply unit has failed.
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7. EZ XMP LED (XLED1) This LED lights up when you enable the EZ XMP switch. XLED1 Z97-WS Z97-WS XLED1 8. 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.
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Q-Code table Code 00 01 02 03 04 06 07 08 09 0B 0C – 0D 0E 0F 10 11 – 14 15 – 18 19 – 1C 2B – 2F 30 31 32 – 36 37 – 3A 3B – 3E 4F 50 – 53 Chapter 1 54 55 56 57 58 59 5A 5B 5C – 5F E0 E1 E2 E3 E4 – E7 E8 Description Not used Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard).
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Description S3 Resume PPI not Found S3 Resume Boot Script Error S3 OS Wake Error Reserved for future AMI error codes Recovery condition triggered by firmware (Auto recovery) Recovery condition triggered by user (Forced recovery) Recovery process started Recovery firmware image is found Recovery firmware image is loaded Reserved for future AMI progress codes Recovery PPI is not available Recovery capsule is not found Invalid recovery capsule Reserved for future AMI error codes DXE Core is started NVRAM initi
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Chapter 1 Code 9C 9D 9E – 9F A0 A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8 A9 AA AB AC AD AE AF B0 B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 B7 B8– BF D0 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8 D9 DA DB DC 1-24 Description USB Detect USB Enable Reserved for future AMI codes IDE initialization is started IDE Reset IDE Detect IDE Enable SCSI initialization is started SCSI Reset SCSI Detect SCSI Enable Setup Verifying Password Start of Setup Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below) Setup Input Wait Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
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ACPI/ASL Checkpoints (under OS) Description System is entering S3 sleep state System is entering S4 sleep state System is entering S5 sleep state System is waking up from the S3 sleep state System is waking up from the S4 sleep state System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in PIC mode. System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in APIC mode.
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1.2.9 1. Internal connectors Intel Z97 Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/6, SATAEXPRESS_1) ® 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® Z97 chipset.
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2. ASMedia® Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1, SATA6G_E2, SATAEXPRESS_E1) These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6 Gb/s signal cables. SATA6G_E1 SATA6G_E2 GND RSATA_TXP1 RSATA_TXN1 GND RSATA_RXN1 RSATA_RXP1 GND GND RSATA_TXP2 RSATA_TXN2 GND RSATA_RXN2 RSATA_RXP2 GND Z97-WS Floating Device_Reset GND Detection SATAEXPRESS_E1 Z97-WS ASMedia® SATA 6 Gb/s connectors 3. • ASMedia storage controller can only support AHCI mode.
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4. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) NC AGND NC NC SENSE2_RETUR GND PRESENCE# SENSE1_RETUR This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.
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6. Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CHAFAN_SEL) These jumpers allow you to switch fan pin selection. The CHAFAN_SEL jumper is for the front fans and rear fans control. Set pins 1-2 when using 3-pin fans or pins 2-3 when using 4-pin fans. Z97-WS CHAFAN_SEL 1 2 3-pin DC FAN (Default) 2 3 4-Pin Force PWM FAN Z97-WS Chassis Fan control setting 7.
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8. USB 3.0 connectors (20-1 pin USB3_E12, USB3_E34) These connectors allow 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 3.0 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gb/s, faster charging time for USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0.
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9. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112, USB1314) PIN 1 USB1314 USB+5V USB_P11USB_P11+ GND USB1112 PIN 1 USB+5V USB_P13USB_P13+ GND Z97-WS USB+5V USB_P14USB_P14+ GND NC USB+5V USB_P12USB_P12+ GND NC 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 Mb/s connection speed. Z97-WS USB2.
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10. CPU, CPU optional, and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1-4) 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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11. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V1, 8-pin EATX12V, 8-pin EATX12V1, 6-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.
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12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. +5V Ground Ground Speaker SPEAKER PLED- PLED+ PLED PANEL HDD_LED PWRSW Reset Ground PWR Ground PIN 1 HDD_LED+ HDD_LED- Z97-WS RESET Z97-WS System panel connector • 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.
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13. 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. DRCT DRCT GND Z97-WS PIN 1 Z97-WS CPU_OV setting 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. 14.
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15. M.2 socket 3 This socket allows you to install an M.2 (NGFF) SSD module. M.2(SOCKET3) Z97-WS Z97-WS M.2(SOCKET3) • This socket supports M Key and type 2260/2280 storage devices. • The M.2 Socket 3 shares bandwidth with SATAEXPRESS_1. Refer to section 3.6.3 PCH Storage Configuration of this user guide for more details. • When using Intel® Desktop Responsiveness technologies with PCIe M.2 device, ensure to set up the Windows® UEFI operating system under RAID mode. The M.
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17. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM) This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. PIN 1 DCD TXD GND RTS RI RXD DTR DSR CTS COM1 Z97-WS Z97-WS Serial port (COM1) connector The COM module is purchased separately. 18. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch.
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Chapter 1 1-38 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
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Chapter 2: Basic Installation Basic Installation 2.1 Building your PC system 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. 2.1.1 Motherboard installation 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. Z97-WS Chapter 2 DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
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2.1.2 CPU installation Chapter 2 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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Chapter 2 To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly Z97-WS 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 HDD LED+ HDD LED- PWR Ground Reset Ground HDD LED To install ASUS Q-Connector HDD LED R SW POWE RESET SW 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 (the USB port hole marked in white on the I/O shield) then press the USB BIOS Flashback button for three seconds to automatically update the BIOS. To use USB BIOS Flashback: 1. Place the bundled support DVD to the optical drive and install the USB BIOS Flashback Wizard.
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6. Wait until the light goes out, indicating that the BIOS updating process is completed. For more BIOS update utilities in BIOS setup, refer to the section 3.11 Updating BIOS in Chapter 3. • Do not unplug portable disk, power system, or press the CLR_CMOS button while BIOS update is ongoing, otherwise update will be interrupted. In case of interruption, please follow the steps again.
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2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection 1 8 2 3 4 9 10 5 11 6 7 12 13 14 Rear panel connectors 1. Optical S/PDIF Out port 8. DisplayPort 2. HDMI port 9. eSATA port 3. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 10. USB BIOS Flashback button 4. Q-Code Logger button 11. USB 3.0 ports 5 and 6 5. Mini DisplayPort 12. USB 3.0 ports 3 and 4 6. Intel LAN port (LAN2)* 13. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 7. Intel® LAN port (LAN1)* 14.
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• Only USB 3.0 ports 5 and 6 support Ai Charger+ function. • Only USB2.0 port 6 supports USB Charger+ function • The plugged USB 3.0 device may run on xHCI mode or EHCI mode, depending on the operating system’s setting. • 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.
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** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Port Light Blue Lime Pink Orange Black Gray Headset 2-channel Line In Line Out Mic In – – – 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In – Rear Speaker Out – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out Side Speaker Out* Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out Side Speaker Out * For Windows® 8.1 only 2.3.
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Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Chapter 2 If you are using Windows 8.1 platform, use only the gray audio port for Side Speaker Out in a 6-channel configuration.
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Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers When the DTS UltraPC II function is enabled, ensure to connect the rear speaker to the gray port. 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: Monitor b.
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BIOS Beep Description One short beep VGA detected Quick boot set to disabled No keyboard detected One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated) No memory detected One continuous beep followed by three short beeps No VGA detected One continuous beep followed by four short beeps Hardware component failure 7. 2.5 At power on, hold down the key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3.
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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 By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. 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 between EZ Mode or Advanced Mode.
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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 switch from EZ Mode to Advanced Mode, click Advanced Mode F7 or press F7 hotkey.
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Menu bar The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items: My Favorites For saving the frequently-used system settings and configuration. For changing the basic system configuration Main Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings Advanced For changing the advanced system settings Monitor For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings.
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Quick Note (F9) This button above the menu bar allows you to key in notes of the activities that you have done in BIOS. • The Quick Note function does not support the following keyboard functions: delete, cut, copy and paste. • You can only use the alphanumeric characters to enter your notes. Hot keys This button above the menu bar contains the navigation keys for the BIOS setup program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
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3.2.3 QFan Control The QFan Control allows you to set a fan profile or manually configure the operating speed of your CPU and chassis fans.
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Configuring fans manually Select Manual from the list of profiles to manually configure your fans’ operating speed. Speed points Click or tap to manually configure your fans To configure your fans: 1. Select the fan that you want to configure and to view its current status. 2. Click and drag the speed points to adjust the fans’ operating speed. 3. Click Apply to save the changes then click Exit (ESC).
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3.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard EZ Tuning Wizard allows you to overclock your CPU and DRAM, computer usage, and CPU fan to their best settings. You can also easily set RAID in your system using this feature. System OC setup RAID setup Tuning your system settings To tune your settings: Press on your keyboard or click EZ Tuning Wizard screen, then click Next. 2. Select a PC scenario Daily Computing or Gaming/Media Editing, then click Next. 3.
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Creating RAID To create RAID: 1. Press on your keyboard or click EZ Tuning Wizard screen. 2. Click RAID then click Next. 3. from the BIOS screen to open • Ensure that your HDDs have no existing RAID volumes. • Ensure to connect your HDDs to Intel® SATA connectors. Select the type of storage for your RAID Easy Backup or Super Speed, then click Next. a. For Easy Backup, click Next then select from Easy Backup (RAID1) or Easy Backup (RAID10).
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3.3 My Favorites Chapter 3 MyFavorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items.
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Adding items to My Favorites To add BIOS items: from the BIOS screen to open 1. Press on your keyboard or click Setup Tree Map screen. 2. On the Setup Tree Map screen, select the BIOS items that you want to save in MyFavorites screen. Main menu panel Selected shortcut items Submenu panel 3. Select an item from main menu panel, then click the submenu that you want to save or press on your as favorite from the submenu panel and tap or click keyboard.
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3.4 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 Z97-WS • If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches for information on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button.
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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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Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto] This item allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options: [Auto] Automatically optimizes the CPU ratio and BCLK frequency. [Manual] Loads the optimal settings for the system. The following item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [Manual].
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ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Auto] [Auto] This item allows you to maximize the oveclocking performance optimized by ASUS core ratio settings. [Disabled] This item allows you to set to default core ratio settings. CPU Core Ratio [Auto] This item allows you to set the CPU core ratio limit per core or synchronize automatically to all cores.
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Internal PLL Overvoltage [Auto] This item allows you to enable the internal PLL Overvoltage for K-SKU CPUs to get the extreme overclocking capability. Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled] BCLK Frequency: DRAM Frequency Ratio [Auto] Allows you to set the BCLK Frequency to DRAM Frequency ratio mode. [Auto] The BCLK frequency to DRAM frequency will be set to the optimized setting. [100:133] The BCLK frequency to DRAM frequency will be set to 100:133.
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Primary Timings DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [63] DRAM Command Rate [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [2] Secondary Timings DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15] DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [511]
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DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D0) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D0) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D0) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D0) [Auto] Configur
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tWRRD_dd [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] tWRWR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [7] tWRWR_dr [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] tWRWR_dd [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] Dec_WRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] 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] This item allows you to enable, disable o
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Skew Control Changing subitems in this menu may enhance the DRAM overclocking capability and stability.
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VRM Spread Spectrum [Disabled] This item allows to enhance the system stability. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Active Frequency Mode [Disabled] This item allows to enhance the power saving condition of your system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Power Phase Control [Auto] This item allows you to set the power phase control of the CPU.
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Fixed DRAM Switching Frequency (KHz) [300] This item allows you to set a higher frequency for an increased overclocking range or a lower frequency for an enhanced system stability. Use the <+> or <-> to adjust the value. The values range from 300 KHz to 500 KHz with an interval of 50 KHz. DRAM Power Phase Control [Auto] [Auto] Allows you to set the Auto mode. [Optimized] Allows you to set the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile. [Extreme] Allows you to set the full phase mode.
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CPU Internal Power Fault Control Thermal Feedback [Auto] Allows your system to take precautionary actions to protect the CPU when the thermal condition of the external regulator exceeds the threshold. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Integrated VR Fault Management [Auto] Disable this item to prevent tripping the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator when doing over-voltage. We recommend you to disable this item when overclocking.
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Power Fast Ramp Response [Auto] This item allows you to enhance the response of the CPU voltage regulator during the load transients. Use the <+> or <-> to adjust the value. The values range from 0.00 to 1.50. 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.
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CPU Core Voltage Offset Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001 V to 0.999 V with a 0.001 V interval. The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Adaptive Mode]. Additional Turbo Mode CPU Core Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set the amount of voltage fed to the CPU cores when running in turbo mode. Increase the voltage when configuring a high CPU core frequency. The voltage you set is affected by the offset value.
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Total Adaptive Mode CPU Cache Voltage [Auto] This item sums up the voltages of the CPU Cache Voltage offset and Additional Turbo Mode CPU Cache Voltage options. CPU System Agent Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+] [+] To offset the voltage by a positive value. [–] To offset the voltage by a negative value. CPU System Agent Voltage Offset [Auto] This item allows you to set the amount of voltage fed to the system agent of the CPU including its PCIE controller and the PCU (power control unit).
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CPU Input Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set an input voltage for the CPU by the external voltage regulator. By default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800 V to 2.700 V with a 0.010 V interval. DRAM Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set the DRAM voltage. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1.20 V to 1.92 V with a 0.005 V interval.
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DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/CHB [Auto] This item allows you to set the DRAM reference voltage on the data lines on Channels A and B. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.39500x to 0.63000x with a 0.00500x interval. To set a value for the DRAM reference voltage, we recommend you to set a value close to the standard value which is 0.500000x.
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3.6 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Chapter 3 Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
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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] This item allows you to protect the CPU by decreasing its frequency as it reaches the thermal throttle point. The thermal monitor includes TM1 (Thermal monitor 1), TM2 (Thermal monitor 2), and EMTTM (Enhanced Multi-threaded Thermal Monitoring).
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Execute Disable Bit [Enabled] Execute Disable prevents certain classes of malicious buffer overflow attacks when combined with a supporting OS (SuSE Linux 9.2, RedHat Enterprise 3 Update 3). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Intel Virtualization Technology [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], a VMM can utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by Vanderpool Technology.
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CPU C-Status [Auto] This item allows you to set the power saving of the CPU states. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] The following items appear only when you set the CPU C-Status to [Enabled]. Enhanced C1 state [Enabled] This item allows your CPU to reduce power consumption when the system is in idle mode. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU C3 Report [Enabled] This item allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to the operating system.
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3.6.2 PCH Configuration PCI Express Configuration This item allows you to configure the PCI Express slots. PCIe Speed [Auto] This item allows your system to automatically select the PCI Express port speed. When set to [Gen1], the PCI-E port runs at PCI-E 1.0 speed. When set to [Gen2], the PCI-E port runs at PCI-E 2.0 speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] Intel Rapid Start Technology [Disabled] This item allows you to enable or disable Intel® Rapid Start Technology.
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Hybrid Hard Disk Support [Disabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the hybrid hard disk support for a faster resume time. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Intel Smart Connect Technology This item allows the system to support Intel Smart Connect Technology, that periodically refreshes selected applications when the system is in sleep mode. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] 3.6.
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SATAExpress_1 SRIS Support [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Disable] SATA Mode Selection [AHCI] This item allows you to set the SATA configuration. [Disabled] Disables the SATA function. [IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices. [AHCI Mode] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface).
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3.6.4 System Agent Configuration CPU Display Audio [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the CPU display audio support. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Graphics Configuration This item allows you to select a primary display from CPU and PCIe graphical devices. Primary Display [Auto] This item allows you to select the primary display from CPU and PCIe devices.
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NB PCIe Configuration This item allows you to configure the NB PCI Express settings. PCIEx16_1/4 Link Speed [Auto] This item allows you to configure the PCIEx16 speed for slots 1~4. Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3] Memory Configuration This item allows you to configure the memory configuration parameters. Memory Scrambler [Enabled] Set this item to [Enabled] to support high frequency DRAMs for a better stability.
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Intel xHCI Mode [Smart Auto] [Auto] The xHCI is automatically enabled and runs at USB 3.0 mode when the xHCI driver is installed in the operating system. [Smart Auto] Upon detection, the xHCI driver supports the USB 3.0 mode during both POST and operating system. [Enabled] Enables the xHCI controller. [Disabled] Disables the xHCI controller. EHCI Hand-off [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand‑off feature. [Disabled] Disables the EHCI Hand-off support.
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PCIE Native Power Management [Disabled] This item 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]. Native ASPM [Disabled] [Enabled] Windows® Vista OS controls the ASPM (active state power management) support for devices. [Disabled] BIOS controls the ASPM support for the device.
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3.6.7 Onboard Devices Configuration Scroll down to view the other BIOS items. HD Audio Controller [Enabled] This item allows you to use the Azalia High Definition Audio Controller Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller to [Enabled].
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PCI-EX4_1 Slot (black) Bandwidth [Enabled] [Auto] This item allows your system to run at X2 mode and disable the SATAEXPRESS_E1 when a PCI-E device is detected. SATAEXPRESS_ E1 is automatically enabled when no device is connected. [X2 mode] This item allows your system to run at X2 mode for system resource optimization with the SATAEXPRESS_E1 disabled. [X4 mode] This item allows your system to run at X4 mode for high performance support with the SATAEXPRESS_E1 and USB3_E56 disabled.
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Intel LAN Controller (LAN1-LAN2) [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Intel LAN1/2 controllers. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following item appears only when you set the Intel LAN Controller to [Enabled]. Intel PXE OPROM (LAN1-LAN2) [Disabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Intel® LAN controller.
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Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off] This item allows your system to go to ON state, OFF state, or both states after an AC power loss. When setting your system to [Last State], it goes to the previous state before the AC power loss. Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State] Power On By PCI-E [Disabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Wake-on-LAN function of the onboard LAN controller or other installed PCI-E LAN cards.
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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. Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. Qfan Tuning Click this item to automatically detect the lowest speed and configure the minimum duty cycle for each fan.
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CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto] [Auto] Detects the type of CPU fan installed and automatically switch the control modes. [PWM mode] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control in PWM mode for 4-pin CPU fan. [DC mode] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control in DC mode for 3-pin CPU fan. [Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. The following items appear only when you set the CPU Q-Fan Control item to [Auto], [PWM mode] or [DC mode].
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CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under 40ºC, the CPU fan operates at the minimum duty cycle. Chassis Fan 1/4 Q-Fan Control 1/4 [DC Mode] These items allow you to set the chassis fans’ Q-Fan control feature into DC Mode, PWM Mode, or disable these Q-Fan controls from your motherboard.
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Chassis Fan 1/4 Lower Temperature [40] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the chassis fans’ lower temperature. The values range from 40°C to 75°C.. Chassis Fan 1/4 Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40°C, the chassis fan operates at the minimum duty cycle.
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3.8 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Boot Configuration Fast Boot [Enabled] [Disabled] This item allows your system to go back to its normal boot speed. [Enabled] This item allows your system to accelerate the boot speed. The following items appear only when you set the Fast Boot to [Enabled]. SATA Support [All Devices] [All Devices] All devices connected to SATA ports are available during POST. This process extends the POST time.
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Network Stack Driver Support [Disabled] [Disabled] Select to skip the network stack driver from loading during POST. [Enabled] Select to load the network stack driver during POST. Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot] [Normal Boot] Returns to normal boot on the next boot after an AC power loss. [Fast Boot] Accelerates the boot speed on the next boot after an AC power loss. DirectKey (DRCT) [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the DirectKey button.
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Option ROM Messages [Enabled] [Enabled] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed during POST. [Disabled] Disables the ROM messages and displays only the ASUS logo during POST. Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] This item allows you to trap Interrupt 19 by the option ROMs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Above 4G Decoding [Disabled] This item allows you to decode the 64-bit capable devices above 4G address space. Ensure that your system supports 64-bit PCI decoding.
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Boot from Storage Devices [Legacy OpROM first] This item allows you to select the type of storage devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Both, Legacy OpROM first] [Both, UEFI first] [Legacy OpROM first] [UEFI driver first] [Ignore] Boot from PCI-E/PCI Expansion Devices [Legacy OpROM first] This item allows you to select the type of PCIe/PCI expansion devices that you want to launch.
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KEK Management The KEK (Key-exchange Key or Key Enrollment Key) manages the Signature database (db) and Revoked Signature database (dbx). Key-exchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft® Secure Boot Key-Enrollment Key (KEK). Delete KEK Allows you to delete the KEK from your system. Once the KEK is deleted, the db and the dbx cannot be updated in the operating system. Load Default KEK Select Yes to load the system default KEK or select No to load a downloaded KEK from a USB storage device.
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dbx Management The dbx (Revoked Signature database) lists the forbidden images of db items that are no longer trusted and cannot be loaded. Delete the dbx Allows you to delete the DBX file from your system. Doing so may expose the system to security threats. Load Default dbx Select Yes to load the system default dbx or select No to load a downloaded dbx from a USB storage device.
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3.9 Tool menu The Tool menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the submenu. Setup Animator This item allows you to enable or disable the Setup animator. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility This item 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.
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3.9.2 ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Load from Profile This item allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the profile number that saved your BIOS settings, press , and then select Yes. • DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system boot failure! • We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/ CPU configuration and BIOS version.
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3.9.3 ASUS DRAM SPD Information This item allows you to view the DRAM SPD information.
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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 OK 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,and 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 to system’s failure to boot. Carefully follow the instructions in this chapter to update your BIOS when necessary. Visit http://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. 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. Go to the Tool menu to select ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press to enable it. 3. Press to switch to the Drive field.
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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. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.10 Exit Menu for details. 3.11.
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3.11.4 ASUS BIOS Updater ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update the BIOS in DOS environment. The screen captures used in this section are for reference only and may not be exactly the same as actually shown on your computer screen. Before updating BIOS • Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive. • Download the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater from https://www.asus.com/support and save them in your USB flash drive. NTFS is not supported under DOS environment.
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4. When the booting message appears, press within five (5) seconds to enter FreeDOS prompt. ISOLINUX 3.20 2006-08-26 Copyright (C) 1994-2005 H. Peter Anvin A Bootable DVD/CD is detected. Press ENTER to boot from the DVD/CD. If no key is pressed within 5 seconds, the system will boot next priority device automatically. boot: 5. On the FreeDOS prompt, type d: then press to switch the disk from Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB flash drive). Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.
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4. After the BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS file, select Yes to confirm the BIOS update. Are you sure you want to update the BIOS? Yes No The BIOS Backup feature is not supported due to security regulations. 5. Select Yes then press . When BIOS update is done, press to exit BIOS Updater. 6. Restart your computer. DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure.
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Chapter 3 3-66 Chapter 3: BIOS Setup
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Chapter 4: Software support Software support 4.1 Installing an operating system 4.2 4 • This motherboard supports 32-bit/64-bit Windows® 7, 32-bit/64-bit Windows® 8, and 32-bit/64-bit Windows® 8.1 operating systems (OS). • Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. The setup procedures presented in this chapter are for reference only. Refer to Windows® operating system documentation for detailed information.
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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 Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. The AHCI/RAID Driver menu contains the RAID/AHCI driver disk. The Manual menu contains the list of supplementary user guides. Click or tap an item to open the folder of the user guide. Click or tap to display the ASUS contact information.
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4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals The software manuals are included in the support DVD. Follow the instructions below to get the necessary software manuals. The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities tab before opening the files. 1. Click or tap Manual tab > ASUS Motherboard Utility Guide. 2. From the Manual folder, open the folder of the software manual that you wish to read. 3.
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4.3 Software information 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. 4.4 AI Suite 3 AI Suite 3 is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows you to launch and operate these utilities simultaneously.
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Windows® 8 and Windows® 8.1 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 or tap AI Suite 3. 3. Follow the succeeding onscreen instructions. If the ASUS motherboard support DVD main menu did not appear, try the following: 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. The AI Suite main menu includes is a quick-access menu bar that allows you to swiftly launch any of the integrated ASUS utilities. Click or tap on the top-right corner of the menu to launch the menu bar.
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4.4.1 Ai Charger+ Ai Charger+ allows you to fast-charge your portable BC 1.1* mobile devices on your computer’s USB port three times faster than the standard USB devices**. Launching Ai Charger+ To launch Ai Charger+, click or tap menu, then select Ai Charger+. on the top-right corner of the AI Suite 3 main Ai Charger+ is available only in selected motherboard models.
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4.4.2 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 or tap menu, then select USB 3.0 Boost. on the top-right corner of the AI Suite 3 main Using the USB 3.
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4.4.3 EZ Update EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s software, drivers and BIOS easily. With this utlity, you can also manually update the BIOS and select the boot logo that displays during POST. Launching EZ Update To launch EZ Update, click or tap then select EZ Update.
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Manually update the BIOS and selecting a boot logo Click or tap to search an image file for your boot logo Click or tap to go back to EZ Update main screen Click or tap to proceed the updating BIOS and boot logo After you click or tap BIOS Update button, click or tap Flash to update the BIOS and upload the boot logo in your system.
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4.4.4 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. Launching USB BIOS Flashback To launch USB BIOS Flashback, click or tap main menu, then select USB BIOS Flashback. on the top-right corner of the AI Suite 3 USB BIOS Flashback is available only in selected motherboard models.
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Downloading the latest BIOS Before you start downloading, ensure that you have installed the USB storage device to your computer’s USB port that supports USB BIOS Flashback. Refer to section 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection of this user guide for more details. To download the updated BIOS: 1. From the USB BIOS Flashback screen, click or tap Check for New BIOS Update. Wait for the system to check the latest BIOS version. 2.
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4.4.5 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 or tap menu, then select USB Charger+.
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4.4.6 Push Notice This utility allows you get the detailed status of your system to your smart device. You can also send messages to your smart device using this utility. Before using this utility, ensure that you pair your computer with your smart device. For pairing information, refer to section Pairing your computer and smart device. Launching Push Notice on your computer To launch Push Notice, click or tap menu, then select Push Notice.
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Setting up PC Mode alerts of your computer This feature allows you to restart, shut down, or put your computer to sleep mode and sends an alert to your smart device.
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Sending messages to your smart device This feature allows you to send messages to your smart device. You can also send messages via the Push Notice messaging shortcut on the lower-right corner of your screen. To do this, click or tap << then click or tap then select . Tick to select the smart device Click or tap to send your message Click or tap to key in your message Viewing your computer status on your smart device Tap on your smart device to launch Push Notice.
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4.4.7 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 or tap main menu, then select System Information. on the top-right corner of the AI Suite 3 Viewing the motherboard information Click or tap the MB tab to view the motherboard’s information. Viewing the CPU information Chapter 4 Click or tap the CPU tab to view the processor’s information.
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Viewing the SPD information Click or tap the SPD tab to view the memory’s information. 4.5 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.
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A. Realtek® HD Audio Manager with DTS UltraPC II for Windows® 8.
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4.6 ASUS Dr. Power Utility ASUS Dr. Power is a monitoring utility that provides notifications when the power supply is unable to provide sufficient power to the system. You can choose to allow continuous notifications or stop messages from appearing until the next time you reboot your computer. The utility is used to monitor changes in the power supplied to the system that may affect performance and system stability. ASUS Dr. Power Utility runs on your system only when the Dr. Power switch is enabled.
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When ASUS Dr. Power detects that your system is running low on power, an event notification pops up to indicate that your power supply requires attention. The message will be displayed for 15 seconds or until you click the Close button. ASUS Dr. Power will notify you of the power status if the same conditions are present on your system. ASUS Dr. Power can be configured to provide notifications at regular intervals: 15 minutes - Messages will be displayed every 15 minutes.
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Chapter 4 4-22 Chapter 4: Software Support
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Chapter 5: RAID Support RAID Support 5.1 RAID configurations 5 The motherboard supports Intel® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and RAID 5 solution. 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. RAID Volumes: None defined. Physical Devices: Port Device Model 0 ST3160812AS 1 ST3160812AS 2 ST3160812AS 3 ST3160812AS Serial # 9LS0HJA4 9LS0F4HL 3LS0JYL8 9LS0BJ5H Size 149.0GB 149.0GB 149.0GB 149.
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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: Name: Volume 0 RAID Level: aaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Disks: dssdsdsds Strip Size:aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Capacity:aaaaaaaaaaaaaa Sync:aaaaaaaaaa Create volume [HELP] Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is 16 characters or less. 2. Enter a name for the RAID set and press . 3.
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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),then press . The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB.
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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: Name Volume0 [DELETE VOLUME MENU] 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, then press . The following warning message appears: [CONFIRM EXIT] Are you sure you want to exit? (Y/N): 2. Press to exit or press to return to the utility main menu. 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.
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5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows® To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®: 1. Start Windows®. 2. Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk. 3. Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive. 4. Go to the Intel AHCI/RAID Driver menu then click Intel AHCI/RAID Driver path to open the RAID driver folder. 5. Select 32bit or 64bit folder depending on your operating system. Copy the files of the selected folder to the root path of your USB floppy disk drive.
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Chapter 6: Multi GPU Support Multiple GPU Support 6.1 AMD® CrossFireX™ technology 6 The motherboard supports the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology that allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 6.1.1 Requirements • In Dual CrossFireX mode, you should have two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics cards or one CrossFireX-ready dual-GPU graphics card that are AMD® certified.
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6.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. 1. Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the two graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard has more than two PCIEX16 slots, refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots recommended for multi-graphics card installation. 3.
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5. Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two graphics cards separately. 6. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card. 6.1.4 Installing three CrossFireX™ graphics cards Prepare three CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the three graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard has more than three PCIEX16 slots, refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots recommended for multi-graphics card installation.
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6.1.5 Installing four CrossFireX™ graphics cards 1. Prepare four CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the four graphics cards into the PCIEX16 slots. Refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots recommended for multi-graphics card installation. 3. Ensure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. 4. Align and firmly insert the three CrossFireX bridge connectors to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Ensure that the connectors are firmly in place. 5.
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6.1.6 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com). 6.1.7 Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the CrossFireX™ feature through the AMD Vision Engine Control Center in Windows environment.
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Enabling Dual CrossFireX technology 1. In the AMD Vision Engine Control Center window, click Performance > AMD CrossFireXTM. 2. Select Enable CrossFireXTM. 3. Select a GPU combination from the drop-down list. 4. Click Apply to save and activate the GPU settings made.
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6.2 NVIDIA® SLI™ technology The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology that allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 6.2.1 Requirements • In SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certified. • Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website at www.nvidia.com.
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4. Align and firmly insert the SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place. 5. Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two graphics cards separately. 6. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card. SLI bridge Goldfingers 6.2.3 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. 1.
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4. Align and firmly insert the 3-way SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place. 5. Connect three independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the three graphics cards separately. 6. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card. 6.2.4 3-way SLI bridge Installing four SLI-ready graphics cards Prepare four SLI-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the four graphics cards into the PCIEX16 slots.
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6.2.5 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com). 6.2.6 Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the SLI feature in NVIDIA® Control Panel under the Windows® 7 operating system.
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B2. From the Screen Resolution window, click Advanced settings. B3. The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears. Enabling SLI settings Chapter 6 From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select Configure SLI, Surround, PhysX. In the Quad-SLI enabled, click Maximize 3D Performance SLI to set the display for viewing SLI rendered content. When done, click Apply.
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Chapter 6 6-12 Chapter 6: Multiple GPU Support
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Appendices Appendix 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. NCC: Taiwan Wireless Statement Japan RF Equipment Statement KC (RF Equipment) Google™ License Terms Copyright© 2017 Google Inc. All Rights Reserved. Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.
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ASUS Z97-WS Română ASUSTeK Computer Inc. declară că acest dispozitiv se conformează cerinţelor esenţiale şi altor prevederi relevante ale directivelor conexe. Textul complet al declaraţiei de conformitate a Uniunii Europene se găseşte la: www.asus.com/support Srpski ASUSTeK Computer Inc. ovim izjavljuje da je ovaj uređaj u saglasnosti sa osnovnim zahtevima i drugim relevantnim odredbama povezanih Direktiva. Pun tekst EU deklaracije o usaglašenosti je dostupan da adresi: www.asus.
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ASUS contact information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address Telephone Fax Web site Technical Support Telephone Fax Online support 4F, No. 150, Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei 112, Taiwan +886-2-2894-3447 +886-2-2890-7798 www.asus.com +86-21-38429911 +86-21-5866-8722, ext. 9101# http://qr.asus.com/techserv ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America) Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA Telephone +1-510-739-3777 Fax +1-510-608-4555 Web site http://www.asus.