P9X79
PRO
Contents
About this guide....................................................................................................... viii
P9X79 PRO specifications summary......................................................................... x
Welcome! ....................................................................................................1-1
Package contents.......................................................................................1-1
Special features..........................................................................................1-2
Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-1
Motherboard overview...............................................................................2-2
Starting up for the first time....................................................................2-52
iii
Contents
Turning off the computer.........................................................................2-52
Knowing BIOS............................................................................................3-1
BIOS setup program..................................................................................3-1
Main menu ..................................................................................................3-5
Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................................3-7
Advanced menu .......................................................................................3-26
Monitor menu ...........................................................................................3-36
Boot menu ................................................................................................3-39
Tools menu ...............................................................................................3-40
Exit menu..................................................................................................3-44
Updating BIOS..........................................................................................3-45
Support DVD information..........................................................................4-1
Software information.................................................................................4-3
iv
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, and
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. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•
•
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required
to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
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. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.
vi
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.
•
•
•
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all
power cables are unplugged.
Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices
could interrupt the grounding circuit.
Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power
company.
•
If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
•
•
•
•
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals
that came with the package.
Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power
cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,
slots, sockets and circuitry.
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area
where it may become wet.
•
Place the product on a stable surface.
•
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service
technician or your retailer.
vii
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.
•
Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when
installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and
connectors on the motherboard.
•
•
•
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter 4: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
This chapter describes how to install and configure multiple AMD® CrossFireX™ and
NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.
1.
ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2.
Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers,
that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the
standard package.
viii
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.
Typography
Bold text
Italics
Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key>
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means
that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Example: <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Del>
ix
P9X79 PRO specifications summary
CPU
2nd Generation Intel® Core ™ i7 processor family for the LGA
2011 Socket
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
Chipset
Memory
8 x DIMM, max. 64GB, DDR3 2400(O.C.) / 2133(O.C.) / 1866 /
1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Quad channel memory architecture
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)
* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of
individual CPUs.
** Refer to www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualified
Vendors Lists).
Expansion slots
3 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots (Dual at x16/ x16 mode; Triple at
x16/ x8/ x8 mode)
1 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIe x16_3 at x8 mode)
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots
* This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Function
will be available when using PCIe 3.0-compliant devices. Please
refer to www.asus.com for updated details.
Supports NVIDIA® 3-Way SLI™ Technology
Multi-GPU support
Storage
Supports AMD® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
-
-
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support
4 x SATA 3Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support
Marvell® 9128 SATA controllers
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports
-
ASMedia® 1061 SATA controllers
2 x Power eSATA 6Gb/s ports
-
Intel® 82579V Gigabit LAN controller
LAN
Bluetooth v2.1 + EDR
ASUS BT GO! Utility
Bluetooth
Audio
Realtek® ALC898 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC
-
-
-
-
Supports 192khz / 24bit True BD Lossless Sound
DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC II
DTS Connect
Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-Streaming, and
Front Panel Jack-Retasking
-
Optical S/PDIF Out port at back I/O
USB
ASMedia USB 3.0 controllers
-
-
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at back panel with 1 x additional VIA
SuperSpeed USB hub controller (blue)
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
-
12 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
(6 ports at mid-board; 6 ports at back panel)
(continued on the next page)
x
P9X79 PRO specifications summary
ASUS unique features
ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 3
with New DIGI+ Power Control:
CPU Power
-
-
Industry leading Digital 8+2 Phase Power Design
CPU Power Utility
DRAM Power
-
-
Industry leading Digital 2+2 Phase Power Design
DRAM Power Utility
ASUS EPU
-
EPU utility, EPU switch
ASUS TPU
-
Auto Tuning, TurboV, TPU switch
ASUS BT GO!
-
Folder Sync, BT Transfer, Shot & Send, BT to Net,
Music Player, Personal Manager, BT Turbo Remote
ASUS Exclusive Features:
-
ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user
interface
-
-
-
-
-
-
ASUS SSD Caching
USB 3.0 Boost
Front Panel USB 3.0 Support
MemOK!
AI Suite II
AI Charger
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:
-
-
ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-pipe solution
ASUS Fan Xpert+
ASUS EZ DIY:
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
USB BIOS Flashback
ASUS O.C. Profile
ASUS MyLogo 2
Percision Tweaker 2
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS EZ Flash 2
Multi-language BIOS
ASUS Q-Design:
-
-
-
-
-
-
ASUS Q-Code
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS Q-DIMM
ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
ASUS Q-Connector
(continued on the next page)
xi
P9X79 PRO specifications summary
ASUS exclusive
Precision Tweaker 2:
overclocking features
-
-
-
-
-
-
vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.005V increment
vTTCPU: Adjustable I/O voltage at 0.00625V increment
vCCSA: 255-step system agent voltage control
vDRAM Bus: 160-step Memory voltage control
vPCH: 96-step Chipset voltage control
vCPU_PLL: 48-step CPU &PCH PLL voltage control
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):
-
BCLK/PEG frequency tuning from 80MHz up to 300MHz at
0.1MHz increment
Overclocking Protection:
ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)
-
Back panel I/O ports
1 x Bluetooth module
1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
2 x Power eSATA 6G ports
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
1 x USB BIOS Flashback button
8-channel Audio I/O ports
Internal I/O connectors
1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB ports (19-pin)
3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB ports
4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors
1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin)
1 x CPU Optional Fan connector (4-pin)
4 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin)
1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
1 x S/PDIF Out header
1 x Clear CMOS button
1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector
1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
1 x System Panel (Q-Connector)
1 x MemOK! button
1 x EPU switch
1 x TPU switch
1 x Power button
1 x Reset button
BIOS features
64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0,
SM BIOS 2.6, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS,
ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
Manageability
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE
Support DVD contents
Drivers
ASUS Utilities
ASUS Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
Form factor
ATX form factor: 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
xii
Chapter 1
Chapter 1:
Product introduction
1.1
Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P9X79 PRO motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another
standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in
your package with the list below.
1.2
Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
User Manual
ASUS P9X79 PRO
User guide
Support DVD
motherboard
1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge
connector
4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
1 x ASUS 3-way SLI™ bridge
connector
1 x ASUS Q-Shield
1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit
•
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
•
The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specifications may
vary with different models.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
1-1
1.3
Special features
1.3.1
Product highlights
2nd Generation Intel® Core ™ i7 processor family for the LGA 2011 Socket
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Family in
LGA2011 package, with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to quad-channel
(8 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 40 PCI Express 3.0 lanes. This provides great graphics
performance. Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Family is one of the most powerful
and energy efficient CPUs in the world.
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
The Intel® X79 Express Chipset is the latest single-chipset design that supports the new
socket 2011 Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Extreme. It improves performance by
utilizing serial point-to-point links, allowing for increased bandwidth and stability. Additionally,
the X79 comes with 2 SATA 6Gb/s and 4 SATA 3Gb/s ports for faster data retrieval, doubling
the bandwidth of current bus systems.
3-Way SLI™ and Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Support
Both SLI and CrossfireX architectures work flawlessly on new ASUS X79 boards, with PCI
Express slots designed to accommodate the power of up to four current graphics cards.
Whether for professional graphics work, heavy duty multimedia or dedicated gaming, more
than ample graphics power can be applied whenever needed.
Quad-Channel DDR3 2400(O.C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz Support
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 2400(O.
C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of
the latest operation system, 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The quad-
channel DDR3 architecture quadruple the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system
performance.
* Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200/2000/1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3 2133/1866/1600
MHz frequency as default.
Complete USB 3.0 Integration
ASUS facilitates strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear panel – 6 USB 3.0
ports in total. Experience the latest plug & play connectivity at speeds up to 10 times faster
than USB 2.0. The P9X79 PRO affords greater convenience to high speed connectivity.
Extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s Support
The Intel® X79 Express Chipset natively supports the next-generation Serial ATA (SATA)
interface, delivering up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer. ASUS provides extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports
with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the bandwidth of current bus
systems.
1-2
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.3.2
Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with New DIGI+ Power Control
The world’s first Dual Intelligent Processors from ASUS pioneered twin onboard chips
- TPU (TurboV Processing Unit) and EPU (Energy Processing Unit). Third generation
Dual Intelligent Processors with New DIGI+ Power Control include two digital voltage
regulator modules (VRMs). An all-new digital controller now allows ultra-precise DRAM
tuning in addition to CPU voltage control. This evolution of innovative and industry-leading
ASUS technology provides super-accurate voltage tuning for better efficiency, stability and
performance.
New DIGI+ Power Control
All-New Digital Power Control for both CPU and DRAM
ASUS X79 motherboards include New DIGI+ Power Control with two digital voltage regulator
modules (VRMs), including an all-new DRAM controller that allows ultra-precise memory
tuning in addition to CPU voltage control. This evolution of innovative, industry-leading ASUS
technology provides super-accurate voltages for better efficiency, stability and performance.
Best in class power efficiency and stability
Two critical components work perfectly together to match digital power signal (SVID) requests
from the CPU, with ultra-fast sensing and response to efficiently deliver the right level of
power on demand. Accurate power reduces wasteful imprecision, and provides more stable
CPU Vcore voltages.
Increased CPU and DRAM overclocking range
With programmable digital controllers onboard, users can adjust CPU and DRAM PWM
voltages and frequencies for various overclocking scenarios, with accurate input through
UEFI BIOS tuning or the exclusive ASUS interface. System performance can also be
customized with specific CPU and DRAM power controls, including new VCCSA load line
calibration for increased voltage range, greater VCCSA current capability, and up to 30%
more capacitance. This proprietary design, with its precise yet flexible power adjustments,
increases overclocking headroom to push performance to its full potential.
8+2 Phase Power Design
To fully unleash the latest Intel® Sandy Bridge-E CPU´s potential, this motherboard has
adopted a brand new digital 8-phase VRM power design. It delivers high power efficiency and
supreme overclocking ability. Furthermore, high quality power components can effectively
lower system temperature to ensure longer component lifespan. This motherboard also
features an extra 2-phase power dedicated to integrated memory controller.
ASUS SSD Caching
SSD caching from ASUS is easier than ever. At 3X faster, this feature boosts system
performance by using an installed SSD with no capacity limitations as a cache for frequently
accessed data. Harness a combination of SSD-like performance and response and hard
drive capacity with just one click, no rebooting needed and instant activation for complete
ease of use.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
1-3
TPU
Unleash your performance with ASUS’ simple onboard switch or AI Suite II utility. The TPU
chip offers precise voltage control and advanced monitoring through Auto Tuning and TurboV
functions. Auto tuning offers a user friendly way to automatically optimize the system for fast,
yet stable clock speeds, while TurboV enables unlimited freedom to adjust CPU frequencies
and ratios for optimized performance in diverse situations.
EPU
Tap into the world’s first real-time PC power saving chip through a simple onboard switch or
AI Suite II utility. Get total system-wide energy optimization by automatically detecting current
PC loadings and intelligently moderating power consumption. This also reduces fan noise
and extends component longevity.
1.3.3
ASUS Exclusive Features
BT GO! (Bluetooth)
Onboard Bluetooth wireless design enables smart connectivity to Bluetooth devices with no
additional adapter. ASUS BT GO! includes seven special functions so users can sync and
transfer files between PC and mobile devices, and use them as a remote control to play music
and other content. All are fully accessible through the exclusive user friendly ASUS interface.
MemOK!
MemOK! quickly ensures memory boot compatibility. This remarkable memory rescue tool
requires a mere push of a button to patch memory issues. MemOK! determines failsafe
settings and dramatically improves your system boot success.
AI Suite II
With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all exclusive ASUS features
into one simple-to-use package with an elegant design theme. It allows users to supervise
overclocking, energy management, fan speeds, voltage, and sensor readings. This all-in-
one software offers diverse and easy to use functions, with no need to switch back and forth
between different utilities.
USB 3.0 Boost
New ASUS USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol), the
latest USB 3.0 standard. With USB 3.0 Boost, USB device transmission speed is significantly
increased by up to 170%, adding to an already impressively fast USB 3.0 transfer speed.
USB 3.0 Boost provides a user-friendly graphical interface, which instantly accelerates the
transfer speeds for USB 3.0 peripherals with exclusive ASUS device auto-detect settings.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
PCIe 3.0 Ready
The latest PCI Express bus standard delivers improved encoding for twice the performance
of current PCIe 2.0. Total bandwidth for a x16 link reaches a maximum of 32GB/s, double
the 16GB/s of PCIe 2.0 (in x16 mode). PCIe 3.0 provides users unprecedented data speeds,
combined with the convenicnce and seamless transition offered by complete backward
compatibility with PCIe 1.0 and PCIe 2.0 devices. It is a must-have feature PC users aiming
to improve and optimize graphics performance, as well as have the latest, most future-proof
technology.
* This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Functions will be available when using PCIe
3.0-compliant devices. Please refer to www.asus.com for updated details.
1.3.4
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Fanless Design—Heat-pipe solution
The stylish heatsink offers 0dB cooling for a quiet PC environment. Attractive design
enhances the look of the board and case, while temperatures in the chipset and power phase
areas stay lower through high efficiency heat exchange. Combining usability and aesthetics,
the stylish ASUS heatsink gives users an extremely silent and cool experience with elegant
design.
DO NOT uninstall the heat-pipe by yourself. Doing so may bend the tubing and affect the
heat dissipation performance.
ASUS Fan Xpert+
Hardware-level ASUS Fan Xpert+ allows users to independently adjust both CPU and case
fan speeds with multiple dedicated controllers based on different ambient temperatures,
climate conditions and system loads. Built-in profiles offer flexible automatic and manual fan
speed controls to achieve a quiet and cool computing environment.
Power eSATA 6Gb/s ready
Powered eSATA 6Gb/s combines data and power connectivity. Users enjoy 2X faster transfer
rates, and can use external SATA 6Gb/s devices with no additional power adapters. ASUS
provides two extra ports with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the
bandwidth of current bus systems for extra speed and accessibility.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
1-5
1.3.5
ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS UEFI BIOS
ASUS UEFI BIOS offers the first mouse-controlled graphical BIOS designed with selectable
modes, providing a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-only
controls. It also natively supports fully-utilized hard drives larger than 2.2TB in 64-bit
operating systems.
ASUS exclusive interface
EZ Mode displays frequently-accessed info. Users can choose system performance settings
and drag and drop boot priorities. Advanced Mode for performance enthusiasts includes
detailed DRAM settings via a dedicated memory info page for complete insight.
New upgrade! Quick and easy info for enhanced system control
- F12 BIOS snapshot hotkey for sharing UEFI setup info and troubleshooting
- New F3 Shortcut for most accessed info
- ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) Information for accessing memory info,
detecting faulty DIMMs and helping with difficult POST situations.
USB BIOS Flashback
USB BIOS Flashback offers the most convenient way to flash the BIOS ever! It allows
overclockers to try new BIOS versions easily, without even entering their existing BIOS or
operating system. Just plug in USB storage and push the dedicated button for 3 seconds,
and the BIOS is automatically flashed using standby power. Worry-free overclocking for the
ultimate convenience!
ASUS Q-Design
ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-LED, Q-Slot, Q-Code and Q-DIMM
design speed up and simplify the DIY process!
ASUS Q-Shield
The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual "fingers" - making it
convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your
motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference
(EMI).
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables
to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the trouble of connecting the system
panel cables one at a time and avoiding wrong cable connections.
ASUS EZ-Flash 2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a
bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility.
1-6
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.3.6
Other special features
DTS UltraPC II
DTS UltraPC II delivers exceptional 5.1 surround through the most popular PC audio
setups - your existing stereo speakers or headphones. In addition to virtual surround, it
upgrades original sound to new levels with Audio Restoration, recreating the dynamic
range of audio files. Symmetry mode improves the balance of perceived loudness across
different input sources and Enhance boosts audio quality through high and low frequency
equalization. With these technologies, users experience better home theater audio with
ease.
DTS Connect
To get the most out of your audio entertainment across all formats and quality levels, DTS
Connect combines two enabling technologies. DTS Neo:PC™ upmixes stereo sources
(CDs, MP3s, WMAs, internet radio) into as many as 7.1 channels of incredible surround
sound. Consumers can then connect their PC to a home theater system.DTS Interactive
is capable of performing multi-channel encoding of DTS bitstreams on personal
computers, and sending encoded bitstreams out of a digital audio connection (such as
S/PDIF or HDMI) designed to deliver audio to an external decoder.
ErP Ready
The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP
requires products to meet certain energy efficiency requirement in regards to energy
consumptions. This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and
energy-efficient products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon
footprint of the product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
1-7
1-8
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Chapter 2
Chapter 2:
Hardware information
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.
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the
bag that came with the component.
•
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so
may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-1
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots
Page
2-5
1.
2.
3.
4.
DDR3 DIMM slots
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)
LGA2011 CPU socket
2-32
2-4
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin
CPU_OPT_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)
2-30
5.
6.
7.
MemOK! switch
2-16
2-28
2-25
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_56)
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])
8.
9.
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])
2-26
2-27
Marvell® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [gray])
10.
11.
12.
13
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
TPU switch
2-33
2-17
2-17
2-28
Clear CMOS switch
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112,
USB1314)
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
EPU switch
2-18
2-15
2-15
2-32
2-29
2-29
Reset switch
Power-on switch
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
Q-Code LED (LED1, LED2)
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-3
2.2.2
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA2011 socket designed for the Intel®
Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition/ Core™ i7 Processors.
Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
•
Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and
the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap
is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard
components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/
transit-related.
•
•
Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise
Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the
LGA2011 socket.
The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from
incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP
cap.
2-4
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Memory configurations
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into
the DIMM sockets.
•
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A, Channel B, Channel C and
Channel D. 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.
•
•
•
•
Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200/2000/1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3
2133/1866/1600 MHz frequency as default.
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect
the CPU.
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.
Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows OS, when you install 4GB
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
- Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows OS.
- Install a 64-bit Windows OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the
motherboard. However, there are differences in memory support specifications on
64-bit Windows OS.
For more details, refer to the Microsoft® support site at
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929605/en-us.
•
•
This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less
(Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB).
The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.4 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.
•
For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (8 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
2-6
Chapter 2: Hardware information
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2400 MHz capability
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip
Chip
NO.
Timing
Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
DS
Brand
G.SKILL
F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP)
4G ( 2x 2G ) DS
DS
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-28 1.65
- 1.65
•
•
•
•
Transcend TX2400KLU-4GK (381850)(XMP) 2GB
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2200 MHz capability
Vendors
GEIL
Part No.
Size
SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing
Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 8GB ( 2x DS
4GB )
-
-
9-11-9-28 1.65
•
•
•
•
KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KHA(XMP)
4G ( 2x DS
2G )
-
-
-
-
1.5~1.7
•
•
KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KJAA-FEIS(XMP) 4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
Kingmax
N/A
-
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2133 MHz capability
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing
DS
Voltage
DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
Apacer
8154A 1044(XMP)
2GB
2GB
2GB
SS
SS
SS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.55-1.75
9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75
9-9-9-24 1.55-1.75
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AX3U2133C2G9B(XMP)
AX3U2133GC2G9B(XMP)
78.BAGE4.AFD0C(XMP)
•
8GB ( 2x DS
4GB )
9-9-9-24
-
•
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2A2133C9(XMP)
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-10-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-11-9-28 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-28 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(Ver7.1)(XMP) 4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
•
•
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-17000CL9Q-16GBXLD(XMP)
F3-17066CL9D-8GBPID(XMP)
GE34GB2133C9DC(XMP)
16GB (
DS
•
•
•
4x 4GB )
8GB ( 2x DS
4GB )
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
•
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3W1K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1FK4/8GX(XMP)
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
9
9
•
•
•
•
•
•
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
9-9-9-24 1.65
1.65
9-11-9-27 1.66
8GB ( 4x DS
2GB )
9
Patriot
PVV34G2133C9K(XMP)
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
•
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-7
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2000 MHz capability
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip Brand Chip NO.
DS
Timing
Voltage
DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
A-DATA
A-DATA
Apacer
AX3U2000GB2G9B(XMP)
AX3U2000GC4G9B(XMP)
78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP)
2GB
4GB
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75
9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
6GB(3 x DS
2GB)
9-9-9-27
-
CORSAIR
G.SKILL
CMT6GX3M3A2000C8(XMP)
F3-16000CL9D-4GBRH(XMP)
F3-16000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP)
F3-16000CL9T-6GBPS(XMP)
GUP34GB2000C9DC(XMP)
6GB ( 3x DS
2GB )
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
8-9-8-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-28 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
G.SKILL
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
G.SKILL
6GB(3 x DS
2GB)
GEIL
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
•
•
•
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
Kingston
KHX2000C9AD3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3GB ( 3x SS
1GB )
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
•
•
KHX2000C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
9
9
•
KHX2000C9AD3W1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
KHX2000C9AD3W1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
9-9-9-24 1.65
•
•
•
•
KHX2000C9AD3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB ( 3x DS
2GB )
9
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
KHX2000C9AD3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB ( 3x DS
2GB )
-
KHX2000C9AD3W1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB ( 3x DS
2GB )
9
KHX2000C9AD3W1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB ( 3x DS
2GB )
9
OCZ
OCZ3B2000LV6GK
6GB(3 x DS
2GB)
7-8-7
Transcend
AEXEA
TX2000KLN-8GK (388375)(XMP) 4GB
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1.6
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AXA3ES2G2000LG28V(XMP)
AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V(XMP)
2GB
1.65
1.65
AEXEA
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
Gingle
Patriot
FA3URSS673A801A
2GB
DS
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24
-
•
•
•
•
PX7312G2000ELK(XMP)
12GB ( DS
3x 4GB )
9-11-9-27 1.65
7-7-7-20 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
•
•
Patriot
Patriot
PV736G2000ELK(XMP)
PVT36G2000LLK(XMP)
6GB ( 3x DS
2GB )
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
6GB(3 x DS
2GB)
Silicon Power SP002GBLYU200S02(XMP)
2GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
DS
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Team
Team
Team
TXD32048M2000C9(XMP)
TXD32048M2000C9-L(XMP)
TXD32048M2000C9-L(XMP)
DS Team
DS Team
DS Team
T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24 1.5
T3D1288LT-20 9-9-9-24 1.5
T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24 1.6
2-8
Chapter 2: Hardware information
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1800 MHz capability
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/
DS
Chip
Brand NO.
Chip
Timing
Voltage
DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
G.SKILL
F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP)
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.6
1.65
•
•
•
•
KINGSTON KHX1800C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
-
•
•
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1600 MHz capability
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip
Chip Timing
Voltage
DIMM socket support (Optional)
DS Brand NO.
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
•
A-DATA
AX3U1600XC2G79(XMP)
AX3U1600GC4G9(XMP)
AX3U1600PC4G8(XMP)
HX3X12G1600C9(XMP)
2GB
4GB
4GB
SS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.6-1.8
A-DATA
-
1.55~1.75
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
A-DATA
8-8-8-24 1.55~1.75
9-9-9-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.5
6-6-6-18 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
6-6-6-18 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
7-7-7-20 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
7-8-7-20 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
8-8-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
7-8-7-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.5
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
Crucial
12GB ( 6x 2GB ) DS
CMZ16GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS
CMG4GX3M2A1600C6
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
4GB( 2x 2GB )
4GB( 2x 2GB )
4GB( 2x 2GB )
4GB(2 x 2GB)
4GB(2 x 2GB)
4GB(2 x 2GB)
6GB ( 3x 2GB )
6GB ( 3x 2GB )
6GB ( 3x 2GB )
6GB(3 x 2GB)
8GB ( 2x 4GB )
8GB ( 2x 4GB )
8GB ( 2x 4GB )
2GB( 2x 1GB )
2GB
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
SS
DS
CMD4GX3M2B1600C8
CMG4GX3M2A1600C6
CMX4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP)
CMD4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP)
CMG4GX3M2A1600C7(XMP)
CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP)
CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP)
CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP)
CMX6GX3M3C1600C7(XMP)
TR3X6G1600C8D(XMP)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CMP8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP)
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C8(XMP)
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP)
BL12864BN1608.8FF(XMP)
BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Crucial
•
•
•
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-12800CL7Q-16GBXH(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS
F3-12800CL9Q-16GBXL(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS
•
•
F3-12800CL7D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB)
F3-12800CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB)
F3-12800CL9D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB)
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
7-8-7-24
-
8-8-8-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.35
7-8-7-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.25
8-8-8-24 1.35
9-9-9-28 1.6
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
F3-12800CL7D-8GBRH(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL(XMP)
8GB ( 2x 4GB )
8GB ( 2x 4GB )
F3-12800CL9D-8GBSR2(XMP) 8GB ( 2x 4GB )
F3-12800CL8D-8GBECO(XMP) 8GB ( 2x4GB )
•
GET316GB1600C9QC(XMP)
16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-9
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1600 MHz capability (continued)
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
DS
Brand
KINGMAX
FLGD45F-B8MF7(XMP)
1GB
SS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB ( 3x 4GB ) DS
9
9
1.65
1.65
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/
12GX(XMP)
12GB ( 3x 4GB ) DS
•
•
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB( 3x 4GB ) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K6/24GX(XMP) 24GB ( 6x 4GB ) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C7D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
9
-
8
•
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3B1K2/
4GX(XMP)
4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
9-9-9-24 1.65
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3LK2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
•
•
•
-
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X1K2/4G
4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
-
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X2K2/
4GX(XMP)
9
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
9
9
9
1.65
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/
6GX(XMP)
6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS
6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS
6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/
6GX(XMP)
-
-
-
-
-
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/
6GX(XMP)
9
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK
OCZ3X1600LV4GK(XMP)
OCZ3G1600LV6GK
4GB( 2x 2GB )
4GB(2 x 2GB)
6GB(3 x 2GB)
6GB(3 x 2GB)
6GB(3 x 2GB)
4GB(2 x 2GB)
4GB(2 x 2GB)
6GB(3 x 2GB)
6GB(3 x 2GB)
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
8-8-8
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
8-8-8
1.65
8-8-8
1.65
OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP)
OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP)
8-8-8
1.65
•
•
•
•
8-8-8
1.65
Super Talent WP160UX4G8(XMP)
Super Talent WP160UX4G9(XMP)
Super Talent WB160UX6G8(XMP)
Super Talent WB160UX6G8(XMP)
8
9
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
8
-
-
AEXEA
Asint
AXA3PS4GK1600S18V(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
-
-
1.65
Asint
3128M8-GJ1D
SLZ3128M8-EGJ1D(XMP)
2GB
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
-
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP)
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP)
4GB( 2x 2GB )
4GB(2 x 2GB)
2GB
9
9
-
GoodRam GF1008KC-JN
GoodRam
GR1600D364L9/2G
-
-
KINGTIGER KTG2G1600PG3(XMP)
2GB
-
-
-
Mushkin
Mushkin
Patriot
Patriot
Patriot
PATRIOT
Patriot
Patriot
Team
996805(XMP)
4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS
12GB ( 3x 4GB ) DS
4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
6-8-6-24 1.65
6-8-6-24 1.65
8-9-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.7
7-7-7-20 1.7
7-7-7-20 1.7
8-8-8-24 1.65
8-9-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
7-7-7-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
-
-
998805(XMP)
-
-
PX7312G1600LLK(XMP)
PGS34G1600LLKA2
PGS34G1600LLKA
PGS34G1600LLKA
PVT36G1600LLK(XMP)
PX538G1600LLK(XMP)
•
-
-
-
-
4GB( 2x 2GB )
4GB(2 x 2GB)
6GB(3 x 2GB)
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
8GB ( 2x 4GB ) DS
•
•
•
•
Team
Team
Team
T3D1288RT-16
T3D1288LT-16
T3D1288RT-16
TXD31024M1600C8-D(XMP) 1GB
TXD32048M1600C7-L(XMP) 2GB
TXD32048M1600HC8-D(XMP) 2GB
SS
DS
DS
Team
Team
•
2-10
Chapter 2: Hardware information
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1333 MHz capability
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip Brand Chip NO.
DS
Timing Voltage
DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
A-DATA
A-DATA
AD63I1B0823EV
2GB
SS A-DATA
SS
3CCA-1509A
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
AXDU1333GC2G9(XMP) 2GB
-
-
9-9-9- 1.25~1.35
24
•
A-DATA
A-DATA
Apacer
Apacer
Apacer
AD63I1C1624EV
SU3U1333W8G9(XMP)
78.01GC6.9L0
4GB
8GB
1GB
2GB
4GB
DS A-DATA
DS ELPIDA
SS Apacer
DS Apacer
3CCA-1509A
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
J4208BASE-DJ-F
AM5D5808DEJSBG
AM5D5808FEQSBG
AM5D5908CEHSBG
-
-
9
9
9
78.A1GC6.9L1
•
•
78.B1GDE.9L10C
DS Apacer
-
CORSAIR TW3X4G1333C9A
4GB (2x DS
2GB)
9-9-9- 1.5
24
-
CORSAIR CMX8GX3M2A1333C9
(XMP)
8GB (2x DS
4GB)
-
-
-
9-9-9- 1.5
24
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1333C9
8GB (4x DS
2GB)
-
-
9-9-9- 1.5
24
Crucial
BL25664BN1337.16FF
(XMP)
2GB
DS
7-7-7- 1.65
24
•
•
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
G.SKILL
EBJ10UE8BDF0-DJ-F
EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F
EBJ20UF8BCF0-DJ-F
EBJ21UE8BDF0-DJ-F
F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
SS ELPIDA
SS ELPIDA
SS Elpida
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
J2108BCSE-DJ-F
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
DS ELPIDA
4GB (2x DS G.SKILL
2GB )
D3 128M8CE9 2GB 9-9-9- 1.5
24
•
•
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-10666CL7D-4GBRH
(XMP)
4GB (2x DS
2GB)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
7-7-7- 1.5
21
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
F3-10666CL8D-4GBECO 4GB (2x DS
(XMP)
8-8-8- 1.35
24
2GB)
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL
8GB (2x DS
4GB )
9-9-9- 1.5
24
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL
F3-10666CL9D-8GBXL
GET316GB1333C9QC
8GB (2x DS
4GB)
9-9-9- 1.5
24
8GB (2x DS
4GB )
9-9-9- 1.5
24
•
•
•
16GB
( 4x
DS
9-9-9- 1.5
24
4GB )
GEIL
GEIL
GEIL
GEIL
GEIL
GEIL
GG34GB1333C9DC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GVP34GB1333C9DC
GB34GB1333C7DC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GVP38GB1333C9DC
4GB ( 2x DS GEIL
2GB)
GL1L128M88BA-
115FW
9-9-9- 1.3
24
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
4GB (2x DS GEIL
2GB)
GL1L128M88BA-
15B
9-9-9- 1.3
24
4GB (2x DS
2GB)
-
-
9-9-9- 1.5
24
4GB (2x DS GEIL
2GB)
GL1L128M88BA-
15FW
7-7-7- 1.5
24
4GB (2x DS GEIL
2GB)
GL1L128M88BA-
12N
9-9-9- 1.3
24
8GB (2x DS
4GB )
-
-
9-9-9- 1.5
24
Hynix
Hynix
Hynix
Hynix
Hynix
HMT112U6TFR8A-H9
HMT325U6BFR8C-H9
HMT125U6BFR8C-H9
HMT125U6TFR8A-H9
HMT351U6BFR8C-H9
1GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
2GB
SS Hynix
SS Hynix
DS Hynix
DS Hynix
DS Hynix
H5TC1G83TFR
H5TQ2G83BFR
H5TQ1G83BFRH9C
H5TC1G83TFR
H5TQ2G83BFR
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
•
•
9
-
-
KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KL9
KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KM9
KINGMAX FLFE85F-B8KL9
KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8KL9
KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8KM9
SS KINGMAX KFC8FNLXF-
DXX-15A
-
2GB
2GB
4GB
4GB
SS Kingmax
KFC8FNMXF-
BXX-15A
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
DS KINGMAX KFB8FNLXL-
BNF-15A
DS KINGMAX KFC8FNLXF-
DXX-15A
•
DS Kingmax
KFC8FNMXF-
BXX-15A
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/1G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3S8N9/2G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G
1GB
2GB
2GB
SS Elpida
SS Micron
DS Kingston
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
IFD77 D9LGK
9
-
1.5
1.5
1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
D1288JPNDPLD9U
9
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-11
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1333 MHz capability (continued)
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip Brand Chip NO.
DS
Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
KINGSTON KHX1333C9D3UK2/4GX
(XMP)
4GB (2x
2GB)
DS
-
-
9
1.25
•
•
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9K2/4G
4GB (2x
2GB)
DS
KINGSTON D1288JEMFPGD9U
-
1.5
•
•
•
KINGSTON KVR1333D3E9S/4G
4GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
DS
SS
SS
SS
SS
DS
SS
Elpida
Micron
Micron
Micron
MICRON
Micron
-
J2108ECSE-DJ-F
D9LGQ
D9LGK
D9LGK
D9PFJ
9
-
1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
OCZ
MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4M1
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
-
MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1 4GB
D9LGK
-
-
OCZ3P1333LV3GK
OCZ3G1333LV4GK
OCZ3P1333LV4GK
OCZ3G1333LV8GK
OCZ3G1333LV8GK
3GB(3 x
1GB)
7-7-7 1.65
9-9-9 1.65
7-7-7 1.65
9-9-9 1.65
9-9-9 1.65
9-9-9 1.65
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
4GB ( 2x
2GB )
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
4GB(2 x
2GB)
8GB ( 2x
4GB )
•
•
•
8GB ( 2x
4GB )
OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK 8GB ( 2x
4GB )
•
PSC
PSC
PC310600U-9-10-A0
PC310600U-9-10-B0
1GB
2GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
4GB
4GB
8GB
SS
DS
SS
SS
SS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
SS
SS
PSC
PSC
A3P1GF3FGF
A3P1GF3FGF
-
-
-
-
-
-
9
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SAMSUNG M378B2873EH1-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B2873FHS-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5773DH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5673FH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273DH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B1G73AH0-CH9
SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E
SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
SAMSUNG K4B2G08460
SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9
SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C
SAMSUNG K4B2G08460
SAMSUNG K4B4G0846A-HCH9
•
-
-
•
•
Transcend
Transcend
JM1333KLN-2G (582670) 2GB
Micron
Micron
ICD77 C9LGK
ICD77 D9LGK
-
TS256MLK64V3N (
585541 )
2GB
2GB
2GB
9
•
•
•
Transcend
Transcend
TS256MLK64V3N
(566577)
SS
SS
Hynix
H5TQ2G83BFR
D9LGK
9
9
-
-
•
•
•
•
TS256MLK64V3N
(574206)
Micron
Transcend
Transcend
JM1333KLN-4G ( 583782 ) 4GB
DS
DS
Transcend
Micron
TK483PCW3
IED27 D9LGK
9
9
-
-
•
•
•
•
TS512MLK64V3N (
585538 )
4GB
4GB
4GB
•
•
Transcend
Transcend
TS512MLK64V3N
(389889)
DS
DS
Hynix
H5TQ2G83BFR
D9LGK
9
9
-
-
•
•
TS512MLK64V3N
(574831)
Micron
•
•
•
•
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ATP
ACT1GHU64B8F1333S
ACT1GHU72C8G1333S
ACT2GHU64B8G1333M
ACT2GHU64B8G1333S
ACT2GHU72D8G1333M
ACT2GHU72D8G1333S
ACT4GHU64B8H1333H
ACT4GHU72D8H1333H
AQ56M72E8BJH9S
AQ12M72E8BKH9S
D3U1333-1G
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
4GB
2GB
4GB
1GB
2GB
4GB
SS
SS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
SS
DS
DS
DS
SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)
Micron
SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
Micron D9KPT(ECC)
SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)
D9KPT
•
•
Hynix
Hynix
H5TQ2G83AFR
H5TQ2G83AFR(ECC)
•
•
•
SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)
SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C(ECC)
ATP
BUFFALO
BUFFALO
BUFFALO
Elpida
Elpida
NANYA
-
J1108BFBG-DJ-F
J1108BFBG-DJ-F
NT5CB256M8BN-CG
-
D3U1333-2G
D3U1333-4G
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13
4GB(2 x
2GB)
9
Elixir
Elixir
Elixir
M2F2G64CB88B7N-CG
M2F2G64CB88D7N-CG
M2F2G64CB88G7N-CG
2GB
2GB
2GB
SS
SS
SS
Elixir
Elixir
Elxir
N2CB2G808N-CG
M2CB2G8BDN-CG
N2CB2G80GN-CG
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2-12
Chapter 2: Hardware information
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1333 MHz capability (continued)
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip Brand Chip NO.
DS
Timing
Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
Elixir
M2F4G64CB8HB5N-CG
M2F4G64CB8HD5N-CG
GR1333D364L9/2G
4GB
4GB
2GB
DS Elixir
N2CB2G808N-CG
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Elixir
DS Elixir
M2CB2G8BDN-CG
GoodRam
DS Qimonda
IDSH1G-03A1F1C-
13H
KINGTIGER F10DA2T1680
KINGTIGER KTG2G1333PG3
2GB
DS KINGTIGER KTG1333PS1208-
NST-C9
-
-
•
•
•
•
2GB
2GB
DS
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
Patriot
Patriot
PSD32G13332
DS Prtriot
PM128M8D3BU-15
-
9
PGS34G1333LLKA
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
-
-
-
7-7-7-20 1.7
9-9-9-24 1.5
7-7-7-20 1.7
•
•
Patriot
Patriot
PVS34G1333ELK
PVS34G1333LLK
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
-
-
•
•
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
RiDATA
RiDATA
C304627CB1AG22Fe
E304459CB1AG32Cf
2GB
4GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
1GB
DS RiDATA
DS RiDATA
SS NANYA
SS NANYA
SS S-POWER
DS NANYA
DS S-POWER
SS Team
C304627CB1AG22Fe
E304459CB1AG32Cf
NT5CB128M8AN-CG
NT5CB128M8AN-CG
10YT3E5
9
9
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Silicon Power SP001GBLTE133S01
Silicon Power SP001GBLTU1333S01
Silicon Power SP001GBLTU133S02
Silicon Power SP002GBLTE133S01
Silicon Power SP002GBLTU133S02
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
9
-
NT5CB128M8AN-CG
I0YT3E0
9
Team
Team
Team
Team
TXD31024M1333C7(XMP)
T3D1288LT-13
7-7-7-21 1.75
7-7-7-21 1.75
7-7-7-21 1.5-1.6
7-7-7-21 1.5-1.6
TXD31048M1333C7-D(XMP) 1GB
TXD32048M1333C7-D(XMP) 2GB
TXD32048M1333C7-D(XMP) 2GB
SS Team
T3D1288LT-13
•
•
•
DS Team
T3D1288LT-13
DS Team
T3D1288LT-13
Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided
DIMM support:
•
2 DIMMs: Supports two (2) modules inserted into either the blue slots or the black
slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory configuration. We suggest that
you install the modules into slots B1 and D1 for better compatibility.
•
•
4 DIMMs: Supports four (4) modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as
two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration.We suggest that you
install the modules into slots A1/B1/C1/D1 for better compatibility.
6 DIMMs: Supports six (6) modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as three
pairs of Triple-channel memory configuration. We suggest that you install
the modules into slots A1/B1/B2/C1/D1/D2 for better compatibility.
•
8 DIMMs: Supports eight (8) modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as
four pairs of Quad-channel memory configuration.
•
•
When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows 32-bit operation system
may only recognize less than 3GB. Hence, a total installed memory of less than 3GB is
recommended.
The default DIMM frequency depends on its Serial Presence Detect (SPD), which is
the standard way of accessing information from a memory module. Under the default
state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than
the vendor-marked value
•
•
ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function.
Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load
the X.M.P. or D.O.C.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support.
•
Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-13
2.2.4
Expansion slots
Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do
so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
Slot No. Slot Description
1
PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16)
PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot
2
3
4
5
6
PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slot (triple at x16 / x8 / x8 mode)
PCIe 3.0 x16_3 slot (at x8 mode)
PCIe 3.0 x16_4 slot (dual at x16 / x16 mode)
PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot
PCI Express operating mode
VGA configuration
PCIe x16_1
PCIe x16_2
PCIe x16_3
PCIe x16_4
x16
Single VGA/PCIe card (Recommend
N/A
N/A
N/A
for single VGA)
Dual VGA/PCIe card
Triple VGA/PCIe card
x16
x16
N/A
x8
N/A
N/A
x16
x8
2-14
Chapter 2: Hardware information
•
•
•
•
In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (navy blue) for a PCI Express
x16 graphics card to get better performance.
In CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 and PCIe 3.0 x16_4 slots for
PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance.
In 3-way SLI™ mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1, PCIe 3.0 x16_2 and PCIe 3.0 x16_4
slots for PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance.
We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™
mode. Refer to page 2-31 for details.
•
Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2 when using
multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. See page 2-30 for details.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
Intel PCH SATA
Controller #0
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
SMBUS Controller
On Chip USB #1
On Chip USB #2
PCIE x16_1
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
shared
PCIE x1_1
–
ASM 1042 USB3.0 #1
ASM 1042 USB3.0 #2
ASM 1061 E-SATA
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
Intel 82579V LAN
HD Audio
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
Marvell 9128 Hardware
RAID Controller
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
PCIE x16_2
PCIE x16_3
PCIE x16_4
PCIE x 1_2
shared
shared
shared
shared
–
–
–
–
-
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-15
2.2.5
Onboard switches
Onboard 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 switch
The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that allows you to power up or wake
up the system. The switch also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source
indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the
location of the onboard power-on switch.
2.
Reset switch
Press the reset switch to reboot the system.
2-16
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3.
MemOK! switch
Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system
boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously. Press
and hold the MemOK! switch until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic
memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.
•
•
Refer to section 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.
The DRAM_LED also lights when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the
system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.
•
•
The MemOK! switch does not function under Windows™ OS environment.
During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It
takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test
fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed
of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.
•
Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each
timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning
process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones
recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on
the ASUS website at www.asus.com.
•
•
•
If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system
continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn
off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.
If your system fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch to boot
and load BIOS default settings. A messgae will appear during POST reminding you
that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.
We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the
ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-17
4.
Clear RTC RAM switch
To erase the RTC RAM:
1. Press down the CLR_CMOS switch.
2. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-
enter data.
5.
TPU switch
Turning this switch to Enable will automatically optimize the system for fast, yet stable
clock speeds.
For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is
powered off.
•
The TPU LED (O2LED1) near the TPU switch lights when the switch setting is turned
to Enable. Refer to section 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the TPU
LED.
•
•
If you change the switch setting to Enable under the OS environment, the TPU
function will be activated after the next system bootup.
You may use the TurboV and Auto Tuning feature in the TurboV EVO application,
adjust the BIOS setup program, or enable the TPU switch at the same time. However,
the system will use the last setting you have made.
2-18
Chapter 2: Hardware information
6.
EPU switch
Turning this switch to Enable will automatically detect the current PC loadings and
intelligently moderate the power consumption.
For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is
powered off.
•
The EPU LED (O2LED2) near the EPU switch lights when the switch setting is turned
to Enable. Refer to section 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the EPU
LED.
•
•
If you change the switch setting to Enable under the OS environment, the EPU
function will be activated after the next system bootup.
You may change the EPU settings in the software application or BIOS setup program,
and enable the EPU function at the same time. However, the system will use the last
setting you have made.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-19
2.2.6
Onboard LEDs
1.
Standby Power LEDs
The Standby Power LEDs will light up once the system is connected to a power source.
2.
Q-LEDs
The ID LEDs provide an elegant embellishment to the motherboard design.
DRAM_LED
CPU_LED
VGA_LED
P9X79 PRO
BOOT_DEVICE_LED
P9X79 PRO CPU/ DRAM/
BOOT_DEVICE/ VGA LED
2-20
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3.
TPU LED
The TPU LED lights when the TPU switch is turned to Enable.
•
The TPU LED (O2LED2) near the TPU switch lights when the switch setting is turned
to Enable. Refer to section 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the TPU
LED.
•
•
If you change the switch setting to Enable under the OS environment, the TPU
function will be activated after the next system bootup.
You may use the TurboV and Auto Tuning feature in the TurboV EVO application,
adjust the BIOS setup program, or enable the TPU switch at the same time. However,
the system will use the last setting you have made.
4.
EPU LED
The EPU LED lights when the EPU switch is turned to Enable.
•
The EPU LED (O2LED3) near the EPU switch lights when the switch setting is turned
to Enable. Refer to section 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the EPU
LED.
•
•
If you change the switch setting to Enable under the OS environment, the EPU
function will be activated after the next system bootup.
You may change the EPU settings in the software application or BIOS setup program,
and enable the EPU function at the same time. However, the system will use the last
setting you have made.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-21
5.
Q-Code LEDs
The Q-Code LED design provides you the 2-digit display, allowing you to know the
system status. Refer to the Q-Code table below for details.
Q-Code table
Code
00
Description
Not used
01
Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard).
AP initialization before microcode loading
System Agent initialization before microcode loading
PCH initialization before microcode loading
Microcode loading
02
03
04
06
07
AP initialization after microcode loading
System Agent initialization after microcode loading
PCH initialization after microcode loading
Cache initialization
08
09
0B
0C – 0D
0E
Reserved for future AMI SEC error codes
Microcode not found
0F
Microcode not loaded
10
PEI Core is started
11 – 14
15 – 18
19 – 1C
2B – 2F
30
Pre-memory CPU initialization is started
Pre-memory System Agent initialization is started
Pre-memory PCH initialization is started
Memory initialization
Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
2-22
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Q-Code table (continued)
Code
31
Description
Memory Installed
32 – 36
37 – 3A
3B – 3E
4F
CPU post-memory initialization
Post-Memory System Agent initialization is started
Post-Memory PCH initialization is started
DXE IPL is started
Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory
speed
50 – 53
54
Unspecified memory initialization error
Memory not installed
55
56
Invalid CPU type or Speed
57
CPU mismatch
58
CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error
CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed
Internal CPU error
59
5A
5B
Reset PPI is not available
5C – 5F
E0
Reserved for future AMI error codes
S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is called by the DXE IPL)
S3 Boot Script execution
E1
E2
Video repost
E3
OS S3 wake vector call
E4 – E7
E8
Reserved for future AMI progress codes
S3 Resume Failed
E9
S3 Resume PPI not Found
EA
S3 Resume Boot Script Error
EB
S3 OS Wake Error
EC – EF
F0
Reserved for future AMI error codes
Recovery condition triggered by firmware (Auto recovery)
Recovery condition triggered by user (Forced recovery)
Recovery process started
F1
F2
F3
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
F4
F5 – F7
F8
F9
FA
FB – FF
60
Reserved for future AMI error codes
DXE Core is started
61
NVRAM initialization
62
Installation of the PCH Runtime Services
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-23
Q-Code table (continued)
Code
Description
63 – 67
CPU DXE initialization is started
68
PCI host bridge initialization
System Agent DXE initialization is started
System Agent DXE SMM initialization is started
System Agent DXE initialization (System Agent module specific)
PCH DXE initialization is started
PCH DXE SMM initialization is started
PCH devices initialization
PCH DXE Initialization (PCH module specific)
ACPI module initialization
CSM initialization
69
6A
6B – 6F
70
71
72
73 – 77
78
79
7A – 7F
90
Reserved for future AMI DXE codes
Boot Device Selection (BDS) phase is started
Driver connecting is started
PCI Bus initialization is started
PCI Bus Hot Plug Controller Initialization
PCI Bus Enumeration
91
92
93
94
95
PCI Bus Request Resources
PCI Bus Assign Resources
Console Output devices connect
Console input devices connect
Super IO Initialization
96
97
98
99
9A
USB initialization is started
USB Reset
9B
9C
USB Detect
9D
USB Enable
9E – 9F
A0
Reserved for future AMI codes
IDE initialization is started
IDE Reset
A1
A2
IDE Detect
A3
IDE Enable
A4
SCSI initialization is started
SCSI Reset
A5
A6
SCSI Detect
A7
SCSI Enable
A8
Setup Verifying Password
Start of Setup
A9
AA
AB
Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
Setup Input Wait
2-24
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Q-Code table (continued)
Code
AC
Description
Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
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
Ready To Boot event
Legacy Boot event
Exit Boot Services event
Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP Begin
Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP End
Legacy Option ROM Initialization
System Reset
USB hot plug
PCI bus hot plug
Clean-up of NVRAM
Configuration Reset (reset of NVRAM settings)
Reserved for future AMI codes
CPU initialization error
System Agent initialization error
PCH initialization error
Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available
PCI resource allocation error. Out of Resources
No Space for Legacy Option ROM
No Console Output Devices are found
No Console Input Devices are found
Invalid password
Error loading Boot Option (LoadImage returned error)
Boot Option is failed (StartImage returned error)
Flash update is failed
Reset protocol is not available
ACPI/ASL Checkpoints
Code
0x01
Description
System is entering S1 sleep state
0x02
0x03
0x04
0x05
0x10
0x20
0x30
0x40
0xAC
0xAA
System is entering S2 sleep state
System is entering S3 sleep state
System is entering S4 sleep state
System is entering S5 sleep state
System is waking up from the S1 sleep state
System is waking up from the S2 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.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-25
2.2.7
Internal connectors
1.
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0
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® X79
chipset.
•
These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.4 SATA Configuration for details.
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID configurations or the manual
bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
•
When using NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer to section
3.5.4 SATA Configuration for details.
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.
IRST driver note for OS installation
•
Windows XP:
32 bit: Intel IRST driver for X79 platform will NOT support Windows XP 32 bit. Please
set to [IDE Mode] for OS installation.
64 bit: When [SATA Mode] is set to [AHCI Mode][RAID Mode], it is necessary to load
IRST Driver from driver disk during OS Windows XP 64 bit installation for the system
to detect the storage devices. For details, please refer to the section "4.5 Create a
RAID driver disk".
•
Windows 7 & Vista: When [SATA Mode] is set to [RAID Mode], you must load IRST
Driver during Windows 7 or Vista installation for the system to detect the Optical Disk
Drive (the ODD should be connected to the Intel SATA ports), or else the ODD will not
run. We strongly recommend you save the IRST Driver from SCD to the USB Flash
Drive before OS installation.
2-26
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc
drives via Serial ATA 3.0 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® X79
chipset.
•
These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.4 SATA Configuration for details.
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID configurations or the manual
bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
•
When using NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer to section
3.5.4 SATA Configuration for details.
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.
IRST driver note for OS installation
•
Windows XP:
32 bit: Intel IRST driver for X79 platform will NOT support Windows XP 32 bit. Please
set to [IDE Mode] for OS installation.
64 bit: When [SATA Mode] is set to [AHCI Mode][RAID Mode], it is necessary to load
IRST Driver from driver disk during OS Windows XP 64 bit installation for the system
to detect the storage devices. For details, please refer to the section "4.5 Create a
RAID driver disk".
•
Windows 7 & Vista: When [SATA Mode] is set to [RAID Mode], you must load IRST
Driver during Windows 7 or Vista installation for the system to detect the Optical Disk
Drive (the ODD should be connected to the Intel SATA ports), or else the ODD will not
run. We strongly recommend you save the IRST Driver from SCD to the USB Flash
Drive before OS installation.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-27
3.
Marvell® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [grey])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0
Gb/s signal cables.
•
•
•
•
•
The SATA6G_E1/E2 (grey) connectors are for data drives only. ATAPI device is not
supported.
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ATA
hard disk drives.
When using NCQ, set the Marvell Storage Controller item in the BIOS to [Enabled].
Refer to section 3.5.6 Onboard Devices Configuration for details.
Press <Ctrl> + <M> during POST to enter the Marvell RAID utility to create or delete a
RAID configuration.
If you want to install a Windows operating system to a RAID configuration created
using the Marvell SATA controller, you have to create a RAID driver disk using the
motherboard support DVD and load the driver during OS installation. For 32/64bit
Windows XP OS, load first the Marvell shared library driver, and then load Marvell
91xx SATA Controller Driver. For Windows Vista / Windows 7 OS, load only the
Marvell 91xx SATA Controller Driver.
2-28
Chapter 2: Hardware information
4.
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_56)
This connector is for the additional USB 3.0 ports, and complies with the USB 3.0
specificaton that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. If the USB 3.0 front panel
cable is available from your system chassis, with this USB 3.0 connector, you can have
a front panel USB 3.0 solution.
You can connect the ASUS front panel USB 3.0 box to this connector to obtain the front
panel USB 3.0 solution.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-29
5.
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
480 Mbps connection speed.
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard!
You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and
then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports
front panel USB ports.
The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.
2-30
Chapter 2: Hardware information
6.
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s).
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.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-31
7.
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)
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. These are not jumpers! Do not place
jumper caps on the fan connectors!
•
•
The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.
If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis fan cable
to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2 for better thermal
environment.
2-32
Chapter 2: Hardware information
8.
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. Connect one end of the front panel
audio I/O module cable to this connector.
•
•
We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this
connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector, set
the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]; if you want to connect an AC'97
front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this
connector is set to [HD].
9.
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.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-33
•
For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit
(PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a
minimum power of 350 W.
•
•
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system
will not boot.
Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when configuring a system
with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not
boot up if the power is inadequate.
•
•
If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with
1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.
2-34
Chapter 2: Hardware information
10. 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 IDE_LED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable
to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to
the HDD.
•
•
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the
system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS settings.
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the
system OFF.
•
Reset button (2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without
turning off the system power.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-35
2.3
Building your computer system
2.3.1
Additional tools and components to build a PC system
1 bag of screws
Philips (cross) screwdriver
PC chassis
Power supply unit
Intel LGA 2011 CPU
Intel LGA 2011 compatible CPU Fan
DIMM
SATA hard disk drive
SATA optical disc drive (optional)
Graphics card
The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.
2-36
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.2
CPU installation
Please note the order in opening/ closing the double latch. Follow the instructions printed
on the metal sealing hatch or the illustrations shown below in this manual. The plastic cap
will pop up automatically once the CPU is in place and the hatch properly sealed down.
1
2
A
B
Load lever
C
A
3
4
B
A
B
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-37
5
6
Triangle
mark
7
8
B
A
9
A
B
2-38
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
2-42
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.10
USB BIOS Flashback
USB BIOS Flashback offers the most convenient way to flash the BIOS. It allows overclockers
to try new BIOS versions easily without having to enter their existing BIOS or operating
system. Just plug in USB storage and push the dedicated button for 3 seconds, and the
BIOS is automatically flashed using standby power. Worry-free overclocking for the ultimate
convenience!
1
Download the BIOS ROM file from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com). Rename
it P9X79PRO.ROM, save the program to a USB portable disk, and place it in the root
directory.
2
On the rear I/O port, plug the USB disk to the USB port with the WHITE interior.
3
Press the BIOS Flashback button for 3 seconds, and the light will begin to flash (on the
third second).
4
5
The Flashback function is enabled once the light starts to flash.
The flashing rate of the light signal accelerates along with the updating speed.
1. 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 recommended procedures again to complete BIOS update.
2.
If the light flashes for five seconds and turns into a stable lighting, this means that
the BIOS Flashback is not operating properly. This may be caused by:1. Improper
installation of the portable disk.2. Error in file name or incompatibility in file format.If
this is the case, please restart the system to turn off the light.
3. Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process
causing the system unable to reboot, please contact the local service station for help.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-47
2.3.11
Rear panel connection
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Rear panel connectors
1. Intel® LAN (RJ-45) port**
2. Power eSATA 6G port
3. Bluetooth module*
6. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2
7. Optical S/PDIF Out port
8. USB 3.0 ports 3 and 4
9. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6
10. Audio I/O ports***
4. USB 2.0 ports 1,2,3 and 4
5. BIOS Flashback switch
*, ** and ***: Refer to the tables on the next page for bluetooth module LED, LAN port LED, and
audio port definitions.
2-48
Chapter 2: Hardware information
•
Press the Clear CMOS switch to clear BIOS setup information only when the system
hangs due to overclocking.
•
•
DO NOT insert a different connector to the Power eSATA 6G port.
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.
•
If you want to use the hot-plug function of the external SATA ports, you have to set the
ASMedia® 1061 SATA controllers item in the BIOS setting to [Enabled] and install
the ASMedia® 1061 SATA controllers from the motherboard support DVD. Refer to
section 3.5.6 Onboard Devices Configuration for details.
* Bluetooth module LED indications
Status
Off
Description
No link
Blue
Linked
Blinking
Data activity
** LAN ports LED indications
Activity Link LED
ACT/LINK SPEED
LED LED
Speed LED
Status
Status
Description
No link
Description
OFF
OFF
10 Mbps connection
100 Mbps connection
1 Gbps connection
ORANGE
BLINKING
Linked
ORANGE
GREEN
Data activity
LAN port
*** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration
Port
Headset
4-channel
6-channel
8-channel
2-channel
Light Blue Line In
Line In
Line In
Line In
Lime
Line Out
Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Front Speaker Out
Mic In
Pink
Mic In
Mic In
Mic In
Orange
Black
Gray
–
–
–
–
Center/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Out
–
Center/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Out
Side Speaker Out
Rear Speaker Out
–
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-49
Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers
When the DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC II function is enabled, ensure to connect the
rear speaker to the gray port.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
2-51
2.4
Starting up for the first time
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
Be sure that all switches are off.
Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis.
Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector.
Turn on the devices in the following order:
a. Monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power
6.
After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up.
For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the
ATX power button. If your monitor complies with the “green” standards or if it has a
“power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up or change from orange to green
after the system LED turns on.
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are running, the
BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table below) or additional messages appear
on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned
on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings
and connections or call your retailer for assistance.
BIOS Beep
Description
One short beep
VGA detected
Quick boot set to disabled
No keyboard detected
No memory detected
One continuous beep followed by two
short beeps then a pause (repeated)
One continuous beep followed by three
short beeps
No VGA detected
One continuous beep followed by four
short beeps
Hardware component failure
7.
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 3.
2.5
Turning off the computer
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system
on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch
for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS
setting.
2-52
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 3
Chapter 3:
BIOS setup
3.1
Knowing BIOS
The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is an Unified Extensible Firmware Interface that complies with
UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-
only BIOS controls to enable more flexible and convenient mouse input. Users can easily
navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system. The
term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specified.
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage
device configuration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device
configuration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In normal
circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure optimum
performance. We recommend that you not change the default BIOS settings except in
the following circumstances:
•
•
An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you to
run the BIOS Setup.
You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or
update.
Inappropriate settings of the BIOS may result to instability or failure to boot. We strongly
recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service
personnel.ç
3.2
BIOS setup program
A BIOS setup program is provided for BIOS item modification. When you start up the
computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del>
during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility. Otherwise, POST continues
with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, press <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or press the reset
button on the system chassis to restart the system. You can also turn the system off and then
turn it back on to restart the system. Do this last option only if the first two failed.
•
•
•
The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and
may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the
mouse to control the BIOS setup program.
If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized
Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu for details.
•
If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS
and reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 2.3.10 Rear Panel
connection for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
•
The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.
The BIOS setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various submenus and select from the
available options using a keyboard or a USB mouse.
The BIOS setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.
You can change modes from the Exit menu or from the Exit/Advanced Mode button in the
EZ Mode/Advanced Mode screen.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-1
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.
The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the
Setup Mode item in section 3.7 Boot memu for details.
Selects the display language of
the BIOS setup program
Clicks to display all fan
speeds if available
Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature,
CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage output,
CPU/CPU_OPT/Chassis fan speed
Exits the BIOS setup program without saving
the changes, saves the changes and resets
the system, or enters the Advanced Mode
P9X79 PRO
Quick switch to frequently
used menus.
Loads optimized default
Power Saving mode
Normal mode
ASUS Optimal mode
Selects the boot device priority
Selects the boot device priority
Displays the system properties of the
selected mode on the right hand side
•
•
The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.
The Boot Menu(F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the
system.
3-2
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
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 EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode.
Menu items Menu bar
General help
Configuration fields
Submenu item
Pop-up window
Scroll bar
Navigation keys
Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main
For changing the basic system configuration
For changing the overclocking settings
For changing the advanced system settings
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings.
For changing the system boot configuration
Tool
For configuring options for special functions
Exit
For selecting the exit options and loading default settings
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-3
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 (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 <Esc> or use the USB mouse to click
this button to return to the previous menu screen.
Submenu items
A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a
submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.
Pop-up window
Select a menu item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the configuration
options for that item.
Scroll bar
A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not fit on
the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the
other items on the screen.
Navigation keys
At the bottom right corner of the menu screen are the navigation keys for the BIOS setup
program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.
Configuration fields
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-configurable, you can
change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not
user-configurable.
A configurable field is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it and
press <Enter> to display a list of options.
3-4
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.3
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.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
BIOS Information
BIOS Version
Build Date
Choose the system default language
0228 x64
08/26/2011
EC F/W Version
ME Version
MBECE-X79-0208
7.1.20.1089
CPU Information
Genuine Intel(R) CPU 0 @ 2.30GHz
Speed
2300 MHz
Memory Information
Total Memory
Speed
2048 MB (DDR3)
1333 MHz
System Language
English
System Date
System Time
Access Level
[Tuesday 08/09/2011]
[16:46:15]
Administrator
>
Security
Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Exit
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Main\ Security
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
>
Password Description
To clear the administrator password,
key in the current password in the
Enter Current Password box,
and then press <Enter> when
prompted to create/confirm the
password.
If ONLY the Administrator's password is set,
then this only limits access to Setup and is
only asked for when entering Setup
If ONLY the User's password is set, then this
is a power on password and must be entered to
boot or enter Setup. In Setup the User will
have Administrator rights
Administrator Password
User Password
Not Installed
Not Installed
Administrator Password
User Password
•
•
If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)
RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 2.3.10 Rear panel connectors for
information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default
Not Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-5
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.
2.
3.
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To change an administrator password:
1.
2.
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press
<Enter>.
3.
From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.
4.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator
password, but press <Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear
the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
User Password
If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.
The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set
a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a user password:
1.
2.
3.
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To change a user password:
1.
2.
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press
<Enter>.
3.
From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.
4.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press
<Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear the password, the
User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
3-6
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.4
Ai Tweaker menu
The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items.
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai 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.
Scroll down to display the following items:
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-7
Scroll down to display the following items:
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.
[Manual]
[X.M.P.]
Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.
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.
The following two items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner item to
[Manual].
BCLK Frequency [XXX]
Allows you to adjust the CPU and VGA frequency to enhance the system performance.
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value
using the numeric keypad. The values range from 80.0MHz to 300.0MHz.
CPU Strap [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [100MHz] [125MHz] [166MHz] [250MHz]
ClockGen Full Reset [Enabled]
[Enabled] Enabled for better overclocking.
[Disabled] To skip system shutdown at BCLK frequency adjustment.
3-8
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Turbo Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to manually adjust the Trubo CPU ratio.
[Auto]
All Turbo ratio are set by Intel CPU default settings
[By ALL Cores (Can Adjust in OS)]All numbers of active cores will be set to one single Turbo
ratio in OS
[By Per Core (Cannot Adjust in OS)] All numbers of active cores can be set to an individual
Turbo ratio in BIOS.
By All Cores (can Adjust in OS) [Auto]
Full unlocked CPU: All number of active cores will be set to one single Turbo Ratio in OS.
Partial unlocked CPU: Maximum supported Turbo Ratio will depend on numbers of active
cores. Turbo Ratio will for all cores active will be always with lower core frequency than that
for one core actives. The setting for this item is for single core actives.
CPU CLOCKGEN FILTER [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]
Memory Frequency [Auto]
Forces a DDR3 frequency slower than the common tCK detected via SPD.
Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz] [DDR3_1333MHz] [DDR3-
1600MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR3_2133MHz] [DDR3_2400MHz]
Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default setting.
EPU Power Saving MODE [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
EPU Setting [Auto]
This items appears only when you set EPU Power saving MODE to [Enabled].
Configuration options: [Auto] [Light Power Saving Mode] [Medium Power Saving Mode] [Max
Power Saving Mode]
OC Tuner
OC Tuner automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of CPU and DRAM for
enhancing the system performance. Configuration options: [OK] [Cancel]
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-9
3.4.1
DRAM Timing Control
The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+>
and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard
and press the <Enter> key.
Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default settings.
Scroll down to display the following items:
3-10
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Scroll down to display the following items:
Scroll down to display the following items:
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-11
Scroll down to display the following items:
Primary Timings
DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 3 to 15 with 1 interval.
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.
DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.
DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 40 with 1 interval.
DRAM COMMAND Time [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1 to 3 with 1 interval.
Secondary Timings
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 7 with 1 interval.
DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 48 to 511 with 1
interval.
DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 5 to 31 with 1 interval.
DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.
DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 16 to 63 with 1 interval.
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.
3-12
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
DRAM WRITE Latency [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1 to 15 with 1 interval.
Third Timings
tRRDR [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.
tRRDD [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.
tWWDR [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.
tWWDD [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.
tRWDR [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 15 with 1 interval.
tRWDD [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 15 with 1 interval.
tWRDR [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.
tWRDD [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.
tRWSR [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 15 with 1 interval.
tCCD [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.
Latency Timings
DRAM RTL (CHA D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHA D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-13
DRAM RTL (CHA D0 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHA D0 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHA D1 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHA D1 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHA D1 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHA D1 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHB D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHB D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
3-14
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
DRAM RTL (CHB D0 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHB D0 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]]
DRAM RTL (CHB D1 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHB D1 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]]
DRAM RTL (CHB D1 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHB D1 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHC D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHC D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-15
DRAM RTL (CHC D0 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHC D0 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHC D1 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHC D1 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHC D1 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHC D1 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHD D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHD D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
3-16
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
DRAM RTL (CHD D0 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHD D0 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHD D1 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHD D1 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHD D1 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]
[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHD D1 R1) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock]
[Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1
Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay
7 Clock]
Others
DRAM CLK Period [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]
Enhanced Training (CHA) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
Enhanced Training (CHB) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-17
Enhanced Training (CHD) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
MCH Duty Sense (CHA) [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1 interval.
MCH Duty Sense (CHB) [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1 interval.
MCH Duty Sense (CHC) [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1 interval.
MCH Duty Sense (CHD) [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1 interval.
MCH Recheck [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-18
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.4.2
DIGI+ Power Control
CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]
CPU Load-line is defined by Intel VRM spec and affects CPU voltage. The CPU working
voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration would get
higher voltage and better overclocking performance, but increase the CPU and VRM thermal.
This item allows you to adjust the voltage range from the following percentages to boost the
system performance: 0% (Regular), 25% (Medium), 50% (High), 75% (Ultra High) and 100%
(Extreme).
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Medium] [High] [Ultra High] [Extreme]
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specifiation.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-19
CPU Current Capability [Auto]
This item provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher value brings a wider
total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]
Do not remove the thermal module while changing the DIGI+ Power Control related
parameters . The thermal conditions should be monitored.
Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric
keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the
value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter>
key.
CPU VCORE Boot Up Voltage [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800 to 1.700 with
0.005 interval.
VCCSA Load-line calibration [Auto]
The behavior of the DRAM controller is decided by VCCSA Load-Line. Set to a higher value
for system performance, or to a lower value for better thermal solution.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [High] [Extreme]
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU and DRAM specification.
Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
VCCSA Current Capability [100%]
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]
CPU VCCSA Boot Up Voltage [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto]
Switching frequency will affect the VRM transient response and component thermal. Setting a
higher frequency gets faster transient response.
[Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable the Spread Spectrum item.
[Manual]
Allows you to manually set the frequency with a 10k Hz interval.
CPU Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-20
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]
[T.Probe]
[Extreme]
Maintains the VRM thermal balance.
Maintains the VRM current balance.
CPU Power Phase Control [Auto]
Phase number is the number of woorking VRM phase. Increasing phase number under
heavy system loading to get more transient and better thermal performance. Reducing phase
number under light system loading to increase VRM efficiency
[Standard]
Proceeds phase control depending on the CPU loading.
Loads the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.
Proceeds the full phase mode.
[Optimized]
[Extreme]
[Manual Adjustment]
Allows manual adjustment.
DRAM-AB Current Capability [100%]
Setting a higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking
frequency range simultaneously.
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]
DRAM-AB Voltage Frequency [Auto]
This item allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a fixed high DRAM
frequency to increase O.C range or a lower DRAM frequency for better system stability.
Configuration options: [Auto] [manual]
DRAM-AB Power Phase control [Auto]
[Optimized]
Allows you to set ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.
[Extreme]
Allows you to set the Full phase mode.
DRAM-CD Current Capability [100%]
Setting a higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking
frequency range simultaneously.
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]
DRAM-CD Voltage Frequency [Auto]
This item allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a fixed high DRAM
frequency to increase O.C range or a lower DRAM frequency for better system stability.
Configuration options: [Auto] [manual]
DRAM-CD Power Phase control [Auto]
[Auto]
Allows you to set ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.
[Extreme]
Allows you to set the Full phase mode.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-21
3.4.2
CPU Performance Settings
The items in this menu is setting for CPU Ratio/Features.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
CPU Ratio
Auto
[X.M.P.] When XMP is enabled BLCK
frequency, CPU ratio and memory
parameters will be auto optimized.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology
Turbo Mode
Enabled
Enabled
Turbo Mode Parameters
Long Duration Power Limit
Auto
Long Duration Maintained
Short Duration Power Limit
Additional Turbo Voltage
CPU Core Current Limit
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
CPU Ratio [Auto]
This item allows user manually adjust the maximum non-turbo CPU ratio, The value will be
limit to CPU base or factory setting.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology, allows the system operation system to dynamically
adjust processor voltage and cores frequency, which can result in decreased average power
consumption and decreased average heat production.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Turbo Mode [Enabled]
It automatically allows processors cores to run faster than the base operating frequency if it’s
operating below power, current and temperature specification limit.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-22
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Turbo Mode Parameters
Long Duration Power Limit [Auto]
The default setting of this item will be TDP (130W). For Sandy Bridge-E, Turbo Ratio
can be kept a time duration exceed TDP for maximum performance. Any value under
255 can be programmed. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Long Duration Maintained [Auto]
This value can vary from 1 to 32, which indicates the time window for Turbo Ratio over
TDP should be maintained. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Short Duration Power Limit [Auto]
This is the second power limit to provide rapid protection when package power
exceeds Power Limit 1. Default setting is 1.25 times Power Limit 1. For Intel
recommend, platform must be capable of supporting over Power Limit 2 for up to 10
msec. ASUS board can support over Power Limit 2 for a long duration. Use the <+>
and <-> keys to adjust the value.
CPU Core Current Limit [Auto]
This item allows user to enter CPU Current Limit, unit in 0.125A. Use the <+> and <->
keys to adjust the value.
CPU VCORE Voltage [Offset Mode]
[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage.
[Offset Mode]
Allows you to set the Offset voltage.
CPU VCORE Manual Voltage [Auto]
This item appears only when you set the CPU VCORE Voltage item to [Manual Mode]
and allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V
with a 0.005V interval.
CPU VCCSA Voltage [Offset Mode]
[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a fixed CPU VCCSA voltage.
[Offset Mode]
Allows you to set the CPU VCCSA Offset voltage.
CPU VCCSA Voltage [Auto]
This item appears only when you set the VSA CPU Voltage item to [Manual Mode] and
allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V with a
0.005V interval.
Offset Mode Sign [+]
This item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage item to [Offset Mode].
[+]
[–]
To offset the voltage by a positive value.
To offset the voltage by a negative value.
CPU VCore Offset Voltage [Auto]
This item allows you to set the Offset voltage. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V
with a 0.005V interval.
Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU voltage. Setting a high voltage
may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the system
unstable.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-23
DRAM Voltage (CHA, CHB) [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.99V with a 0.005V
interval.
DRAM Voltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.99V with a 0.005V
interval.
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may damage
the CPU permanently. We recommend you install the DIMMs with the voltage requirement
below 1.65V.
CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU and PCH PLL voltage. The values range from 1.80V to 2.10V with
a 0.00625V interval.
VTTCPU Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the VTTCPU voltage. The values range from 1.05V to 1.70V with a
0.00625V interval.
PCH 1.1v Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the 1.1v Platform Controller Hub voltage. The values range from 1.10V to
1.70V with a 0.00625V interval.
PCH 1.5v Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the 1.5v Platform Controller Hub voltage. The values range from 1.50V to
1.80V with a 0.00625V interval.
•
•
The values of the CPU VCORE/VCCSA Voltage, CPU VCORE/VCCSA Manual
Voltage, DRAM Voltage, CPU PLL Voltage, VTTCPU Voltage and PCH 1.1V/1.5V
Voltage items are labeled in different color, indicating the risk levels of high voltage
settings. Refer to the table below for details.
The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high voltage settings.
VTTDDR Voltage (CHA, CHB) [Auto]
Allows you to set the CHA, CHB VTTDDR voltage. The values range from 0.6250V to 1.10V
with a 0.00625V interval.
VTTDDR Voltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto]
Allows you to set the CHC, CHD VTTDDR voltage. The values range from 0.6250V to 1.10V
with a 0.00625V interval.
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA. The values range from 0.3950V to
0.6300V with a 0.005V interval.
3-24
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA. The values range from 0.3950x to
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB. The values range from 0.3950x to
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB. The values range from 0.3950x to
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHC. The values range from 0.3950x to
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHC. The values range from 0.3950x to
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHD. The values range from 0.3950x to
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHD. The values range from 0.3950x to
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA Reference Voltage on Channel A/B. The values range
from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM
overclocking ability.
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA Reference Voltage on Channel A/B. The values range
from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM
overclocking ability.
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM Control Reference Voltage on Channel C/D. The values
range from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM
overclocking ability.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-25
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM Control Reference Voltage on Channel C/D. The values
range from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM
overclocking ability.
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.
Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Enhances the PCIE overclocking ability.
Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
3.5
Advanced menu
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system
devices.
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values
can cause the system to malfunction.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
CPU Configuration Parameters
>
CPU Configuration
PCH Configuration
SATA Configuration
SAS Configuration
USB Configuration
Onboard Devices
APM
>
>
>
>
>
>
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
3-26
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.1
CPU Configuration
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically
detects.
The items shown in this screen may be different due to the CPU you installed.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Tool
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Advanced\ CPU Configuration
>
CPU Configuration
Genuine Intel(R) CPU @ 2.30GHz
CPU Signature
206d2
8000020c
2300 MHz
1200 MHz
6
Adjust Non-Turbo Ratio
Microcode Patch
Max CPU Speed
Min CPU Speed
Processor Cores
Intel HT Technology
Intel VT-x Technology
Supported
Suppotted
L1 Data Cache
L1 Code Cache
L2 Cache
32 kB x 6
32 kB x 6
256 kB x 6
15360 kB
L3 Cache
64-bit
Supported
Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor
Hyper-threading
Enabled
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enabled
All
Enter: Select
Active Processor Cores
Limit CPUID Maximum
Execute Disable Bit
Intel Virtualization Technology
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F3: Shortcut
Disabled
Enabled
Enabled
F5: Optimized Defaults
F6: ASUS Ratio Boost
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
>
CPU Power Management Configuration
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.
Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down.
Hyper-threading [Enabled]
The Intel Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two
logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two
threads or processes simultaneously.
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Only one thread per activated core is enabled.
Two threads per activated core are enabled.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-27
Active Processor Cores [All]
Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.
Configuration options: [All] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]
Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs
with extended CPUID functions.
[Disabled]
Disables this function.
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]
[Enabled]
Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.
Forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).
[Disabled]
Intel Virtualization Tech [Enabled]
[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.
3.5.2
CPU Power Management Configuration
CPU Ratio
Auto
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology
Enabled
Enabled
Auto
Turbo Mode
CPU C1E
CPU C3 Report
CPU C6 Report
CPU C7 Report
Auto
Auto
Auto
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
CPU Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the BCLK Frequency. Use <+>
and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
The CPU runs at its default speed.
The operating system controls the CPU speed.
Turbo Mode [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables this function.
[Enabled]
Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific
condition.
3-28
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
CPU C1E [Auto]
[Disabled]
Disables this function.
[Enabled]
Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to
enable the Enhanced Halt State.
CPU C3 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS.
CPU C6 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS.
CPU C7 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C7 report to OS.
3.5.3
PCH Configuration
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ PCH Configuration
>
PCH Configuration
Enabled/Disabled the High Precision
Event Timer.
High Precision Timer
Enabled
High Precision Timer [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3.5.4
SATA Configuration
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The SATA
Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA port.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ SATA Configuration
>
SATA Configuration
SATA Mode
(1) IDE Mode. (2) AHCI Mode. (3)
RAID Mode.
AHCI Mode
S.M.A.R.T. Status Check
Enabled
SATA 6G_1 (Gray)
Hot Plug
Not Present
Disabled
SATA 6G_2 (Gray)
Hot Plug
Not Present
Disabled
SATA 3G_3 (Blue)
Hot Plug
ASUS CB-521 ATAPI
Disabled
SATA 3G_4 (Blue)
Hot Plug
Not Present
Disabled
SATA 3G_5 (Blue)
Hot Plug
Not Present
Disabled
SATA 3G_6 (Blue)
Hot Plug
Not Present
Disabled
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-29
SATA Mode [AHCI Mode]
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). The AHCI allows the onboard
storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases
storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to
internally optimize the order of commands.
[RAID Mode]
Set to [RAID Mode] when you want to create a RAID configuration from the
SATA hard disk drives.
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: [Disabled] [Enabled]
SATA6G_1 (Gray)
Hot Plug [Disabled]
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode]. It’s allow user to
enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
SATA6G_2 (Gray)
Hot Plug [Disabled]
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode]. It’s allow user to
enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
SATA3G_3 (Blue)
Hot Plug [Disabled]
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode]. It’s allow user to
enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
SATA3G_4 (Blue)
Hot Plug [Disabled]
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode]. It’s allow user to
enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
3-30
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
SATA3G_5 (Blue)
Hot Plug [Disabled]
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode]. It’s allow user to
enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
SATA3G_6 (Blue)
Hot Plug [Disabled]
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode]. It’s allow user to
enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ SATA Configuration
>
SATA Configuration
SATA Mode
(1) IDE Mode. (2) AHCI Mode. (3)
RAID Mode.
IDE Mode
Serial-ATA Controller 0
Serial-ATA Controller 1
S.M.A.R.T. Status Check
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
SATA 6G_1 (Gray)
SATA 6G_2 (Gray)
SATA 3G_3 (Blue)
SATA 3G_4 (Blue)
SATA 3G_5 (Blue)
SATA 3G_6 (Blue)
Not Present
Not Present
Not Present
Not Present
Not Present
Not Present
The following two items appear only when you set the SATA Mode item to [IDE Mode].
Serial-ATA Controller 0 [Enabled]
Allows you to enabled/disabled the Serial-ATA Controller 0.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Compatible]
Serial-ATA Controller 1 [Enabled]
Allows you to enabled/disabled the Serial-ATA Controller 1.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
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: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-31
3.5.4
USB Configuration
The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ USB Configuration
>
USB Configuration
Enables Legacy USB support. AUTO
option disables legacy support if no
USB devices are connected. DISABLE
option will keep USB devices
USB Devices:
1 Keyboard, 1 Mouse, 4 Hubs
available only for UEFI applications.
Legacy USB Support
Legacy USB3.0 Support
EHCI Hand-off
Enabled
Enabled
Disabled
The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the
item shows None.
Legacy USB Support [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
[Auto]
The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.
Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).
Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If
detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is
detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.
Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the function.
[Enabled]
Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating systems
(OS).
EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the function.
Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off
feature.
3-32
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.6
Onboard Devices Configuraton
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ Onboard Devices Configuration
>
Enabled/Disabled Azalia HD Audio
Azalia HD Audio
Front Panel Type
SPDIF Out Type
Enabled
HD
SPDIF
Bluetooth Controller
Enabled
Intel LAN Controller
Enabled
Disabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
AHCI Mode
Enabled
Intel LAN PXE OPROM
Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller
Marvell Storage Controller
Marvell Storage OPROM
ASM1061 Storage Controller
ASM1061 Storage OPROM
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F3: Shortcut
F5: Optimized Defaults
F6: ASUS Ratio Boost
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Azalia HD Audio [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the controller.
[Enabled]
Enables the High Definition Audio Controller.
The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller item 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.
[HD]
Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high definition audio.
[AC97]
Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-33
SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF]
[SPDIF]
[HDMI]
Sets to [SPDIF] for SPDIF audio output.
Sets to [HDMI] for HDMI audio output.
Bluetooth Controller [Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
ASUS BT GO! is enabled.
ASUS BT GO! is disabled.
Intel LAN Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the controller.
Enables the Intel LAN controller.
Intel LAN PXE OPROM [Disabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable
or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Intel LAN controller.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled]
This item allows user to enabled/disabled Asmedia USB 3.0.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Marvell Storage Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to select the Marvell storage controller operating mode.
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the controller.
Set to [Enabled] when you want use the function of Marvell RAID.
Marvell Storage OPROM [Enabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable
or disable the OptionRom of the Marvell storage controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASM1061 Storage Controller [AHCI Mode]
Allows you to enable or disable the ASM1061 storage controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [IIDE Moode] [AAHCI Mode]
If you want to use the full functin of the ASM1061 storage contorller (ex. AHCI), we
recommend that you set this item to [AHCI Mode] and install the ASM1061 Controller
Driver from the motherboard support DVD.
ASM1061 Storage OPROM [Enabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [IDE Mode] or [AHCI Mode] and
allows you to enable or disable the OptionRom of the ASM1061 storage controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-34
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.6
APM
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced\ APM
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
>
Restore AC Power Loss
Power On By PCIE/PCI
Power On By RTC
ErP Ready
Power Off
Specify what state to go to when
power is re-applied after a power
failure (G3 state).
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]
[Power On]
[Power Off]
[Last State]
The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.
The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was
before the AC power loss.
Power On By PCIE/PCI [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
Enables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
Power On By RTC [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables RTC to generate a wake event.
When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/
Minute/Second will become user-configurable with set values.
ErP Ready [Disabled]
This item allows user to switch off some power at 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]
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-35
3.6
Monitor menu
The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change
the fan settings.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
CPU Temperature
MB Temperature
+45�C / +113�F
+34�C / +93�F
3325 RPM
N/A
CPU Fan Speed
Chassis Fan 1 Speed
Chassis Fan 2 Speed
Chassis Fan 3 Speed
Chassis Fan 4 Speed
CPU Q-Fan Control
N/A
N/A
N/A
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit
CPU Fan Profile
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F3: Shortcut
Chassis 1 Q-Fan Control
Chassis 1 Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis 1 Fan Profile
F5: Optimized Defaults
F6: ASUS Ratio Boost
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
Chassis 2 Q-Fan Control
Chassis 2 Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis 2 Fan Profile
Chassis 3 Q-Fan Control
Chassis 3 Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis 3 Fan Profile
Chassis 4 Q-Fan Control
Chassis 4 Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis 4 Fan Profile
CPU Voltage
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
+1.184 V
+3.312 V
+5.080 V
+12.192 V
3.3V Voltage
5V Voltage
12V Voltage
Anti Surge Support
Enabled
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxx�C/xxx�F]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard
temperatures. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.
3-36
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
CPU Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
CPU OPT Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
Chassis Fan 1/2/3/4 Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, CPU OPT,
and chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the
motherboard, the field shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected
speed.
CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to
disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.
Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]
CPU Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows
you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on
the CPU temperature.
[Silent]
[Turbo]
[Manual]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
The following four items appear only when you set CPU Fan Profile to [Manual].
CPU Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range
from 20�C to 75�C.
CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from
0% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle.
CPU Lower Temperature [20]
Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.
CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 0%
to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under 40�C, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum
duty cycle.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-37
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis 1/2/3/4 Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.
Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust depending
on the chassis temperature.
[Silent]
[Turbo]
[Manual]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan operation.
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
The following four items appear only when you set Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Profile to
[Manual].
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range
from 40�C to 90�C.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from
60% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Lower Temperature [40]
Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]
Use the <+> and <-> 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 will operate at the
minimum duty cycle.
CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard
voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item.
Anti Surge Support [Enabled]
This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-38
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.7
Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Select the keyboard NumLock state
Bootup NumLock State
Full Screen Logo
On
Enabled
Enabled
Wait For ‘F1’ If Error
Option ROM Messages
Setup Mode
Force BIOS
EZ Mode
Boot Option Priorities
Boot Option #1
P3: xxxxxxx
P4: xxxxxxx
Boot Option #2
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Boot Override
>
>
P5: xxxxxxxxxxxx
P6: xxxxxxxxxxxx
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F3: Shortcut
>
>
Hard Drive BBS Priorities
F5: Optimized Defaults
F6: ASUS Ratio Boost
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
CD/DVD ROM Drive BBS Priorities
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Bootup NumLock State [On]
[On]
[Off]
Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].
Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
Enables the full screen logo display feature.
Disables the full screen logo display feature.
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature.
Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables this function.
The system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs.
Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]
[Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot
sequence.
[Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party
manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-39
Setup Mode [EZ Mode]
[Advanced Mode] Sets Advanced Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup
program.
[EZ Mode]
Sets EZ Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup program.
Boot Option Priorities
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices
installed in the system.
•
•
To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears.
To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following:
- Press <F5> when ASUS Logo appears.
- Press <F8> after POST.
Boot Override
These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on
the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start
booting from the selected device.
3.8
Tools menu
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Be used to update BIOS
>
ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility
ASUS DRAM SPD Information
ASUS O.C. Profile
>
>
>
ASUS Drive Xpert
3.8.1
ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to
confirm your choice.
For more details, refer to section 3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility.
3-40
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.8.2
ASUS DRAM SPD Information
This menu showed the DIMM slot related informatons.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Tool\ ASUS DRAM Information\ ASUS DRAM Information
>
>
>
>
DIMM_A1
DIMM_A2
DIMM_B1
N/A
N/A
N/A
OK
> DIMM_B2
> DIMM_C1
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
>
DIMM_C2
DIMM_D1
DIMM_D2
>
>
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Tool\ ASUS DRAM Information\ ASUS SPD Information
>
DIMM Slot #
DIMM_B1
Samsung
DIMM Slot number
Manufacure
Module Size
1024 MBytes
1333Mhz
Maximum Bandwidth
Part Number
M391B2873DZ1-CH9
06036a40
Serial Number
Product Week/Year
SPD Ext.
15/2008
JEDEC ID
JEDEC
Frequency(Mhz)
1333
1.500
9
Voltage(V)
CAS# Latency(tCL)
RAS# to CAS#(tRCD)
9
RAS# Precharge(tRP)
9
tRAS
tRC
24
33
10
4
tWR
tRRD
tRFC
tWTR
tRTP
tFAW
74
5
5
20
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-41
3.8.3
ASUS O.C. Profile
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Tool\ ASUS O.C. Profile
>
O.C. Profile Configuration
==========================================================
Save BIOS settings to Profile
Setup Profile1 Status :
Setup Profile2 Status :
Setup Profile3 Status :
Setup Profile4 Status :
Setup Profile5 Status :
Setup Profile6 Status :
Setup Profile7 Status :
Setup Profile8 Status :
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
==========================================================
Label
Save to Profile
0
1
1
Load CMOS Profile
Load from Profile
The Setup Profile Status items show Not Installed if no profile is created.
Label
Allows you to input the label of setup profile.
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 <Enter>, and then select Yes.
Load from Profile
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the profile
number that saved your BIOS settings, press <Enter>, 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.
3-42
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.8.4
ASUS Drive Xpert
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Tool\ ASUS Drive Xpert
>
Drive Xpert Setup Utility
Drive Xpert Mode
Drive Xpert Mode
Normal Mode
Drive Xpert Device(s) List
:
>
SATA 6G E1 (Gray)
>
SATA 6G E2 (Gray)
•
•
Before using the Drive Xpert function, ensure that you have connected the SATA
signal cables and installed SATA hard disk drives to the SATA6G_E1 and SATA6G_E2
connectors.
You can only make one Drive Xpert change a time before you save BIOS settings and
restart the computer.
Drive Xpert Mode
[Normal Mode] Allows you to use the SATA6G_E1 and SATA6G_E2 connectors as normal
SATA connectors.
[Super Speed] Allows you to use the Super Speed function that combines two hard drives
as one single drive partition.
[EZ Backup]
Allows you to use the EZ Backup function that copies and maintains an
identical image of data from the SATA6G_E1 drive to the SATA6G_E2
drive.
When using only one hard disk in Normal Mode, connect the hard disk to the SATA6G_E1
connector on the motherboard.
•
•
All original data of the two hard drives will be erased for Super Speed setup.
All original data of the SATA6G_E2 hard disk will be erased for EZ Backup setup.
Drive Xpert Device(s) List:
SATA 6G E1 (Gray) / SATA 6G E2 (Gray)
Press <Enter> to display the information of the hard disks which are connected to the
SATA6G_E1 and SATA6G_E2 connectors on the motherboard.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-43
3.9
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.
Exit
Load Optimized Defaults
Save Changes & Reset
Discard Changes & Exit
ASUS EZ Mode
Launch UEFI Shell from filesystem device
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 <F5>, a confirmation window appears.
Select Yes to load the default values.
Save Changes & Reset
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to
ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>,
a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.
Discard Changes & Exit
This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you
select this option or if you press <Esc>, a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to
discard changes and exit.
ASUS EZ Mode
This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen.
Launch UEFI Shell from filesystem device
This option allows you to attempt to launch the UEFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one
of the available filesystem devices.
3-44
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.10 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 (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for this
motherboard.
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard BIOS setup program.
1.
2.
3.
ASUS Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.
ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a USB flash drive.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or
a USB flash drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.
4.
ASUS BIOS Updater: Updates and backups the BIOS in DOS environment using the
motherboard support DVD and a USB flash disk drive.
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need
to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS
Update or BIOS Updater utilities.
3.10.1
ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard
BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to:
•
•
•
•
•
Update the BIOS directly from the Internet
Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet
Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file
Save the current BIOS file
View the BIOS version information
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet
Service Provider (ISP).
Launching ASUS Update
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS Update by
clicking Update > ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-45
Updating the BIOS through the Internet
To update the BIOS through the Internet:
1.
From the ASUS Update screen,
select Update BIOS from Internet,
and then click Next.
2.
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest
you to avoid network traffic.
If you want to enable the BIOS
downgradable function and auto
BIOS backup function, check the
checkboxs before the two items on
the screen.
3.
Select the BIOS version that you
want to download. Click Next.
4.
5.
You can decide whether to change
the BIOS boot logo, which is the
image appearing on screen during
the Power-On Self-Tests (POST).
Click Yes if you want to change the
boot logo or No to continue.
Follow the onscreen instructions to
complete the update process.
3-46
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:
1.
From the ASUS Update screen,
select Update BIOS from file, and
then click Next.
2.
Locate the BIOS file from the Open
window, click Open, and click Next.
3.
4.
You can decide whether to change
the BIOS boot logo. Click Yes if you
want to change the boot logo or No to
continue.
Follow the onscreen instructions to
complete the update process.
•
•
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual BIOS information
vary by models.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-47
3.10.2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature 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:
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 <Enter> to enable it.
Exit
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V00.75
Flash Info
MODEL: P9X79 PRO
VER: 0220
DATE: 08/09/2011
fs0:\
Drive
79
Folder Info
08/05/10 10:23p
fs0:\
fs1:\
4194304
P9X79D.ROM
File Infor
MODEL:
Help Info
VER:
DATE:
[Enter] Select or Load
[Tab] Switch
[Up/Down/PageUp/PageDown/Home/End] Move
[Esc] Exit
[F2] Backup
3.
Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive field.
4.
Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS,
and then press <Enter>.
5.
Press <Tab> to switch to the Folder Info field.
6.
Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the BIOS file, and then press <Enter> to perrform
the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.
3-48
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
•
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 3.9 Exit Menu for
details.
3.10.3
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the
BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a
corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains
the BIOS file.
The BIOS file in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS file published
on the ASUS official website. If you want to use the newer BIOS file, download the file at
support.asus.com and save it to a USB flash drive.
Recovering the BIOS
To recover the BIOS:
1.
Turn on the system.
2.
Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive, or the USB flash drive
containing the BIOS file to the USB port.
3.
The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the utility
reads the BIOS file and enters ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility automatically.
4.
The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS setting. To ensure
system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press <F5> to load default
BIOS values.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause
system boot failure!
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-49
3.10.4
ASUS BIOS Updater
The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update 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.
Download the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at http://
support.asus.com and save them on the USB flash drive.
•
•
NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS file and BIOS
Updater to a hard disk drive or USB flash drive in NTFS format.
Do not save the BIOS file to a floppy disk due to low disk capacity.
3.
Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).
Booting the system in DOS environment
1.
Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the USB port.
2.
Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the BIOS
Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the
optical drive as the boot device.
Please select boot device:
SATA: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
USB XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
UEFI: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Enter Setup
↑ and ↓ to move selection
ENTER to select boot device
ESC to boot using defaults
3.
4.
When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by
pressing the item number.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type d:and press <Enter> 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:\>
3-50
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Backing up the current BIOS
To backup the current BIOS file using the BIOS Updater
Ensure that the USB flash drive is not write-protected and has enough free space to save
the file.
1.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[filename]and press <Enter>.
D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom
Filename Extension
The [filename] is any user-assigned filename with no more than eight alphanumeric
characters for the filename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension.
2.
The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When
BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2011/04/29]
Current ROM
BOARD: P9X79 PRO
VER: 0220
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: 08/09/2011
DATE: Unknown
PATH: A:\
BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.
Note
Saving BIOS:
ASUS P9X79 PRO
3-51
Updating the BIOS file
To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater
1.
2.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /gand press <Enter>.
D:\>bupdater /pc /g
The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2011/04/29]
Current ROM
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
BOARD: P9X79 PRO
VER: 0220
DATE: Unknown
DATE: 08/09/2011
PATH: A:\
A:
P8P67D.ROM
4194304 2011-08-05 17:30:48
Note
[Enter] Select or Load
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move
[Tab] Switch
[B] Backup
[V] Drive Info
[Esc] Exit
3.
Press <Tab> to switch between screen fields and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys
to select the BIOS file and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS file
and prompts you to confirm BIOS update.
Are you sure to update BIOS?
Yes
No
4.
Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> 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 1.04 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS
prompt after updating BIOS.
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.
Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See Chaper 3
of your motherboard user manual for details.
•
Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS file if you have
disconnected them.
3-52
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Chapter 4
Chapter 4:
Software support
4.1
Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista / 64-bit Vista / 7 / 64-bit 7
operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to
maximize the features of your hardware.
•
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.
•
Ensure that you install the Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before
installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.
4.2
Support DVD information
The support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software
applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.
The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the
ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates.
4.2.1
Running the support DVD
Place the support DVD into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if
Autorun is enabled in your computer. Click each menu tab and select the items you want to install.
The Make Disk menu
contains items to
create the RAID/AHCI
driver disk.
The Manual menu contains
the list of supplementary user
manuals. Click an item to open
the folder of the user manual.
The Drivers menu shows the available
device drivers if the system detects
installed devices. Install the necessary
drivers to use the devices.
Click the Contact
tab to display the
ASUS contact
information.
The Utilities
menu shows the
applications and
other software that
the motherboard
supports.
Click an icon
to display DVD/
motherboard
information
Click an item
to install
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to
locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run
the DVD.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-1
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 menu before opening the files.
1.
Click on the Manual tab. Click
on ASUS Motherboard Utility
Guide from the manual list on the
left.
2.
The Manual folder of the support
DVD appears. Double-click the
folder of your selected software.
3.
Some software manuals are
provided in different languages.
Double-click the language to
show the software manual.
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual software manuals
containing in the support DVD vary by models.
4-2
Chapter 4: Software support
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.
4.3.1
AI Suite II
AI Suite II is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows users to
launch and operate these utilities simultaneously.
Installing AI Suite II
To install AI Suite II on your computer
1.
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your
computer has enabled the Autorun feature.
2.
3.
Click on the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite II.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete installation.
Using AI Suite II
AI Suite II automatically starts when you enter the Windows® operating system (OS). The AI
Suite II icon appears in the Windows® notification area. Click on the icon to open the AI Suite
II main menu bar.
Click on each button to select and launch a utility, to monitor the system, to update the
motherboard BIOS, to display the system information, and to customize the settings of AI Suite II.
Click to customize
the interface settings
Click to show the
system information
Click to update the motherboard BIOS
Click to monitor sensors
or CPU frequency
Click to select a utility
Shortcut to the Auto Tuning
Mode under TurboV EVO
•
•
•
The Auto Tuning button appears only on models with the TurboV EVO function.
The applications in the Tool menu vary with models.
The screeshots of AI Suite II in this user manual are for reference only. The actual
screenshots vary with models.
•
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website
at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-3
4.3.2
TurboV EVO
ASUS TurboV EVO introduces TurboV that allows you to manually adjust the CPU frequency
and related voltages as well as Auto Tuning function that offers automatic and easy
overclocking and system level up. After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support
DVD, launch TurboV EVO by clicking Tool > TurboV EVO on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
TurboV
TurboV allows you to overclock the BCLK frequency, CPU voltage, IMC voltage, and DRAM
Bus voltage in Windows® environment and takes effect in real-time without exiting and
rebooting the OS.
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 make the
system unstable.
For system stability, all changes made in TurboV will not be saved to BIOS settings and
will not be kept on the next system boot. Use the Save Profile function to save your
customized overclocking settings and manually load the profile after Windows starts.
Click to select
mode
Load profile
Target values
Save the current
settings as a
new profile
Current values
Voltage
Adjustment
bars
Click to show
settings
Undoes all changes
without applying
Click to restore
all start-up
settings
Applies all changes
immediately
4-4
Chapter 4: Software support
Using Advanced Mode
Click on the Advanced Mode tab to adjust the advanced voltage settings.
Advanced mode
Target values
Voltage
Adjustment
bars
Undoes all changes
without applying
Current values
Click to restore
all start-up
settings
Applies all changes
immediately
CPU Ratio
Allows you to manually adjust the CPU ratio.
The first time you use CPU Ratio, go to AI Tweaker > CPU Power Management in BIOS
and set the Turbo Ratio item to [Maximum Turbo Ratio setting in OS].
1.
2.
3.
Click on the CPU Ratio tab.
Drag the adjustment bar upwards or downwards to the desired value.
Click on Apply to make the change take effect.
CPU Ratio
Adjustment bar
Undoes all changes
without applying
Click to restore
all start-up
settings
Applies all changes
immediately
•
Set the CPU Ratio Setting item in BIOS to [Auto] before using the CPU Ratio function
in TurboV. Refer to Chapter 3 of your motherboard user manual for details.
•
The CPU Ratio bars show the status of the CPU cores, which vary with your CPU
model.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-5
CPU Strap
Allows you to manually adjust CPU Strap.
1.
2.
Click on the CPU Strap tab.
Click on the adjustment bar to the desired value. The graph on the right will change
value accordingly.
3.
Click on Apply to make the change take effect.
CPU Strap
Adjustment bar
Undoes all changes
without applying
Click to restore
Applies all changes
immediately
all start-up
settings
Every CPU Strap support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs.
Auto Tuning
ASUS TurboV EVO includes two auto tuning modes, providing the most flexible auto-tuning
options.
•
The overclocking result varies with the CPU model and the system configuration.
•
To prevent overheating from damaging the motherboard, a better thermal environment
is strongly recommended.
•
•
Fast Tuning: fast CPU overclocking
Extreme Tuning: extreme overclocking for CPU and memory
Using Fast Tuning
1.
Click the Auto Tuning tab and
then click Fast.
2.
Read through the warning
messages and click OK to start
auto-overclocking.
4-6
Chapter 4: Software support
3.
TurboV automatically overclocks
the CPU, saves BIOS settings
and restarts the system. After
re-entering Windows, a message
appears indicating auto tuning
success. Click OK to exit.
Using Extreme Tuning
1.
Click the Auto Tuning tab and then
click Extreme.
2.
Read through the warning
messages and click OK to start
auto-overclocking.
3.
TurboV automatically overclocks
the CPU and memory and restarts
the system. After re-entering
Windows, a message appears
indicating the current overclocking
result. To keep the result, click
Stop.
4.
If you did not click Stop in
the previous step, TurboV
automatically starts further system
overclocking and stability test.
An animation appears indicating
the overclocking process. Click
Stop if you want to cancel the
Overclocking process.
5.
TurboV automatically adjusts and
saves BIOS settings and restarts
the system. After re-entering
Windows, a message appears
indicating auto tuning success.
Click OK to exit.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-7
4.3.3
DIGI+ Power Control
DIGI+ Power Control allows you to adjust VRM voltage and frequency modulation to enhance
reliability and stability. It also provides the highest power efficiency, generating less heat to
longer component lifespan and minimize power loss.
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch DIGI+ Power Control
by clicking Tool > DIGI+ Power Control on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Select CPU Power or DRAM Power to adjust the power control settings.
CPU Power
4
5
1
2
Application aids
3
Apply all changes
immediately
6
7
Undo all changes
without applying
Function no.
Function description
1
CPU Load-line Calibration
It allows you to adjust the voltage settings and control the system temperature.
Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking
performance but increases the CPU and VRM thermal.
2
3
4
5
6
CPU Current Capability
CPU Current Capability provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher
value setting gets higher VRM power consumption delivery.
CPU Voltage Frequency
Switching frequency will affect the VRM transient response and component thermal.
Higher frequency gets quicker transient response.
VCCSA Load-line Calibration
The behavior of the DRAM Controller is decided by the VCCSA Load-line. Set to a
higher value for system performance, or to a lower value for better thermal solution.
VCCSA Current Capability
A higher value brings wider total DRAM Controller power range and extends the
overclocking frequency range simultaneously.
CPU Power Phase Control
Increase phase number under heavy system loading to get more transient and
better thermal performance. Reduce phase number under light system loading to
increase VRM efficiency.
7
CPU Power Duty Control
CPU Power Duty Control adjusts the current of every VRM phase and the thermal of
every phase component.
4-8
Chapter 4: Software support
DRAM Power
1
Application aids
2
3
Apply all changes
immediately
Undo all changes
without applying
Function no.
Function description
DRAM Current Capability
A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking
frequency range simultaneously.
1
2
3
DRAM Voltage Frequency
Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency for system stability or to
increase OC Range.
DRAM Power Phase Control
Set Manual Adjustment to faster phase response to increase system performance or
to slower phase response to increase DRAM power efficiency.
•
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specification.
•
Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-9
4.3.4
EPU
EPU is an energy-efficient tool that satisfies different computing needs. This utility provides
several modes that you can select to save system power. Selecting Auto mode will have the
system shift modes automatically according to current system status. You can also customize
each mode by configuring settings like CPU frequency, GPU frequency, vCore Voltage, and
Fan Control.
Launching EPU
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch EPU by clicking
Tool > EPU on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Displays the following message
if no VGA power saving engine is
detected.
Multiple system
operating modes
The items lighting up
means power saving
engine is activated
Displays the amount
of CO2 reduced
*Shifts between the
display of Total and
Current CO2 reduced
Displays the current
CPU power
Advanced settings for each mode
Displays the system
properties of each mode
*•
*•
•
Select From EPU Installation to show the CO2 that has been reduced since you
installed EPU.
Select From the Last Reset to show the total CO2 that has been reduced since you
click the Clear button
.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
4-10
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.5
FAN Xpert+
FAN Xpert+ intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds
according to different ambient temperatures caused by different climate conditions in
different geographic regions and your PC’s system loading. The built-in variety of useful
profiles offer flexible automatic and manual fan speed controls to achieve a quiet and cool
environment.
Launching FAN Xpert+
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch FAN Xpert+ by
clicking Tool > FAN Xpert+ on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using FAN Xpert+
Click Fan Name to select a fan and then click Setting to select a preset mode for your
selected fan.
Click to select a fan profile
Click to select a fan type
Click to apply the settings
Click to discard the settings
Fan setting
•
•
•
•
•
Disable: disables the FAN Xpert+ function.
Standard: adjusts fan speed in a moderate pattern.
Silent: minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation.
Turbo: maximizes the fan speed for the best cooling effect.
Intelligent: automatically adjusts the CPU fan speed according to the ambient
temperature.
•
•
Stable: fixes the CPU fan speed to avoid noise caused by the unsteady fan rotation.
However, the fan will speed up when the temperature exceeds 70°C.
User: Allows you to configure the CPU fan profile under certain limitations.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-11
4.3.6
Sensor Recorder
Sensor Recorder monitors the changes in the system voltage, temperature, and fan speed on
a timeline. The History Record function allows you to designate specific time spans on record
to keep track of the three system statuses for certain purposes.
Launching Sensor Recorder
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Sensor Recorder by
clicking Tool > Sensor Recorder on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using Sensor Recorder
Click on Voltage/ Temperature/ Fan Speed tabs for the status you want to monitor. Colored
lines will automatically appear on the diagram to indicate the immediate changes in the
system status.
Using History Record
1.
2.
3.
Click on the History Record tab and adjust the settings on the left for Type, Date,
Record Interval, and Record Duration according to need.
Colored lines will then appear on the diagram to indicate the changes in the requested
status of the given time.
Click on Recording to record the history changes.
Click on Monitor > Sensor on the AI Suite II main menu bar and a highlight of the system
statuses will appear on the right panel.
4-12
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.7
Probe II
Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you
of any problem with these components. Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature,
and system voltages, among others. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is
always at a healthy operating condition.
Launching Probe II
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Probe II by clicking
Tool > Probe II on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Configuring Probe II
Click the Voltage/Temperature/Fan Speed tabs to activate the sensors or to adjust the
sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize the time interval of
sensor alerts, or change the temperature unit.
Saves your
configuration
Loads your saved
Applies your
changes
Loads the default
threshold values
for each sensor
configuration
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-13
4.3.8
BT GO!
ASUS BT GO! includes seven special functions, so users can sync and transfer files between
PC and mobile devices, and even use them as a remote control to play music and other
contents on PC.
Launching BT GO!
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch BT GO! by clicking
Tool > BT GO! on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using BT GO!
Device list
Function list
Lights up when the function is enabled
Click to show the corresponding setting
panel on the right side
•
•
Click on and to scroll the device list and the function list.
Click on any of the device icons to select the device as the connected BT device and BT
GO! will automatically search for the supported functions for the selected device.
•
Click any of the device / function icons to connect the selected device and enable /
disable the selected function.
Function introduction
Shot & Send: allows you to snap and transfer the screenshot to the connected BT device.
BT Transfer: allows you to share the files stored in the host BT device to another
connected BT devices.
Folder Sync: allows you to sync or back up the selected folder between the selected BT
devices and the computer.
Personal Manager: allows you to synchronize the personal contacts and calendar
information between the BT device and the system.
BT to Net: allows the system to access the Internet via the network shared by the
Bluetooth device.
Music Player: allows you to play the selected music files in the BT device through the
computer’s speakers.
BT Turbo Remote: provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to use your smartphone
as the remote controller via the bluetooth connection for the BT Turbo Key, Pocket Media,
and Reset/Off functions.
•
•
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any
use of such marks by ASUSTek Computer Inc. is under license. Other trademarks and
trade names are those of their respective owners.
4-14
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.9
USB 3.0 Boost
The ASUS exclusive USB 3.0 Boost provides speed boost for USB 3.0 devices and the
up-to-date support of USB Attached SCSI Protocol (UASP). With USB 3.0 Boost, you can
accelerate the transfer speed of your USB 3.0 devices with ease.
Launching USB 3.0 Boost
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch USB 3.0 Boost by
clicking Tool > USB 3.0 Boost on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Configuring USB 3.0 Boost
1.
2.
Connect a USB 3.0 device to the USB 3.0 port.
USB 3.0 Boost automatically detects the property of the connected device and
switches to Turbo mode or UASP mode (if UASP is supported by the connected
device).
3.
You can manually switch the USB 3.0 mode back to Normal mode at any time.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-15
4.3.10
ASUS SSD Caching
This feature boosts system performance by using an installed SSD with no capacity
limitations as a cache for frequently accessed data. Harness a combination of SSD-like
performance and response and hard drive capacity with just one click. No rebooting is
needed with instant activation for complete ease of use.
Launching ASUS SSD Caching
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS SSD Caching
by clicking Tool > ASUS SSD Caching on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Configuring ASUS SSD Caching
1.
Connect one HDD and one SSD to the
the Marvell® SATA ports (SATA6G_E1/
E2). ASUS SSD Caching automatically
detects the HDD and SSD.
2.
Click on Caching Now! to initialize the
connected disks. Initialization status is
shown on the program interface.
3.
4.
Caching function will be activated once
initialization is complete.
Click on Disable when deactivating SSD
caching.
•
During initialization, you can proceed with doing any system operations. You can
check the caching status later or wait for a pop-up message notifying that initialization
is completed.
•
For regular usage, the SATA6G_E1/E2 connectors are recommended for data drives.
•
After disabling SSD Caching, the SSD will become a non-configurable disk in
Windows OS. To use the SSD again for normal functions, go to Disk Management to
reconfigure the SSD.
4-16
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.11
ASUS Update
ASUS Update lays out the options for updating BIOS on your system. Update BIOS utility
on your system or simply save the utility for later use just by following the directions on this
convenient updating feature.
Launching ASUS Update
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS Update by
clicking Update> ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using ASUS Update
Select the way you would like to do with the BIOS utility. Click on Next and follow the
instructions to complete your request.
•
•
•
•
Update BIOS from Internet
Download the latest BIOS utility from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com) and
follow the suggested procedures to update the BIOS version on your system.
Download BIOS from Internet
Download the latest BIOS utility from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com) and
save for later use.
Update BIOS from file
Use the BIOS utility demanded from a source file to update the BIOS version on your
system.
Save BIOS to file
Back up the current BIOS utility on your system to another file or USB disk to save for
later use.
There may be risks of system crash when updating BIOS. Backing up the original BIOS
utility is recommended before updating.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-17
4.3.11
MyLogo2
This MyLogo utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears
on screen during the Power-On-Self-Tests (POST). Personalize your computer from the very
beginning!
Launching ASUS Update
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch MyLogo by clicking
Update> MyLogo on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using MyLogo
Select the way you would like to do update your boot logo. Then click Next and follow the
given instructions.
Change the BIOS boot logo of my motherboard
1.
Under Current BIOS, click Browse and choose the desired image for your boot logo.
Then click on Next.
4-18
Chapter 4: Software support
2.
3.
4.
5.
Click on Auto Tune to adjust image size compatibility or adjust the resolution bar.
You can click on Booting Preview to preview the boot image. Then click Next.
Click on Flash to start updating the image to the boot logo.
Click on Yes to reboot or you can also see the new logo next time you restart your
computer.
Change the boot logo of a downloaded BIOS file and update (or do not update) this
BIOS to the motherboard
1.
At BIOS File, Browse to download the requested BIOS file to your system. This utility
will help you detect the compatibility of the BIOS version.
2.
3.
Then at Picture File, Browse to select the desired image for boot logo. Click Next.
Follow steps 2-5 in Change the BIOS boot logo of my motherboard to complete
logo update.
The fullscreen logo application in BIOS utility must be enabled for MyLogo to take effect.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-19
4.3.8
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.
Follow the installation wizard to install the Realtek® Audio Driver from the support DVD that
came with the motherboard package.
If the Realtek audio software is correctly installed, you will find the Realtek HD Audio
Manager icon on the taskbar. Double-click on the icon to display the Realtek HD Audio
Manager.
A. Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows® 7™
Configuration option tabs (vary with the audio devices connected)
Device advanced
settings
Exit button
Minimize button
Information button
Control settings
Set default device buttons
Connector settings
Analog and digital connector status
B. Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows® XP™
Exit button
Configuration
options
Minimize button
Control settings
window
Information
button
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
Duo to Intel Z77 platform do not support Windows® VistaTM, Realtek HD Audio driver is only
supported by Windows® 7TM / Windows® XPTM
.
ASUS
1
4.4
RAID configurations
The motherboard supports the following SATA RAID solutions:
•
•
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support.
Mavell® RAID utility with RAID 0 and RAID 1 support.
•
•
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.
Due to Windows® XP / Vista limitation, a RAID array with the total capacity over 2TB
cannot be set as a boot disk. A RAID array over 2TB can only be set as a data disk
only.
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 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk for details.
4.4.1
RAID definitions
RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in
parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a
sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access
and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives is required for this setup.
RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from one drive to
a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software directs all applications
to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of the data in the other drive. This RAID
configuration provides data protection and increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use
two new drives or use an existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be
of the same size or larger than the existing drive.
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard disk drives. Among
the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and
higher storage capacity. The RAID 5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing,
relational database applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems.
Use a minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.
RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy data) having
to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 configuration you get all the benefits of both
RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive
and three new drives for this setup.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-21
4.4.2
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.
2.
3.
Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.
Connect the SATA signal cables.
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.
4.4.3
Setting the RAID item in BIOS
You must enable the RAID function in the BIOS Setup before creating RAID set(s) using
SATA HDDs. To do this:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Enter the BIOS Setup during POST.
Go to the Advanced menu > SATA Configuration, and then press <Enter>.
Set the SATA Mode item to [RAID Mode].
Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup.
Refer to Chapter 3 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup.
Due to chipset limitation, when set any of SATA ports to RAID mode, all SATA ports run at
RAID mode together.
4.4.4
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility
To enter the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility:
1.
2.
Turn on the system.
During POST, press <Ctrl> + <I> to display the utility main menu.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]
1. Create RAID Volume
2. Delete RAID Volume
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID
4. Recovery Volume Options
5. Exit
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes:
None defined.
Physical Devices:
Port Device Model
Serial #
9LS0HJA4
9LS0F4HL
3LS0JYL8
9LS0BJ5H
Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
[↑↓]-Select
[ESC]-Exit
[ENTER]-Select Menu
4-22
Chapter 4: Software support
The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through the menus
and select the menu options.
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and may not
exactly match the items on your screen.
The utility supports maximum four hard disk drives for RAID configuration.
Creating a RAID set
To create a RAID set:
1.
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The
following screen appears:
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name: Volume0
RAID Level: RAID0(Stripe)
Disks: Select Disks
Strip Size:
128KB
Capacity: 0.0
Sync: N/A
GB
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is
16 characters or less.
[↑↓]Change
[TAB]-Next
[ESC]-Previous Menu
[ENTER]-Select
2.
3.
Enter a name for the RAID set and press <Enter>.
When the RAID Level item is selected, press the up/down arrow key to select a RAID
level to create, and then press <Enter>.
4.
When the Disks item is selected, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives you want
to include in the RAID set. The SELECT DISKS screen appears:
[ SELECT DISKS ]
Port Drive Model
Serial #
9LS0HJA4
9LS0F4HL
3LS0JYL8
9LS0BJ5H
Size Status
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
Select 2 to 6 disks to use in creating the volume.
]-Prev/Next [SPACE]-SelectDisk [ENTER]-Done
[
↑↓
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-23
5.
Use the up/down arrow key to select a drive, and then press <Space> to select. A small
triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> 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 <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4KB
to 128KB. The following are typical values:
RAID 0: 128KB
RAID 10: 64KB
RAID 5: 64KB
We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for
multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.
7.
8.
When the Capacity item is selected, enter the RAID volume capacity that you want
and press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity.
When the Create Volume item is selected, press <Enter>. The following warning
message appears:
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):
9.
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to go back
to the CREATE VOLUME menu.
4-24
Chapter 4: Software support
Deleting a RAID set
Take caution 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 <Enter>. The
following screen appears:
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ DELETE VOLUME MENU ]
Name
Volume0
Level
RAID0(Stripe)
Drives
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.
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
[↑↓]-Select
[ESC]-Previous Menu
[DEL]-Delete Volume
2.
Use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set you want to delete, and then press
<Del>. The following warning message appears:
[ DELETE VOLUME VERIFICATION ]
ALL DATA IN THE VOLUME WILL BE LOST!
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
Are you sure you want to delete volume “Volume0”? (Y/N):
3.
Press <Y> to delete the RAID set and return to the utility main menu, or press <N> to
return to the DELETE VOLUME menu.
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 <Enter>. The following
warning message appears:
[ CONFIRM EXIT ]
Are you sure you want to exit? (Y/N):
2.
Press <Y> to exit or press <N> to return to the utility main menu.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-25
4.4.5
Marvell RAID utility
The onboard Marvell SATA 6.0 Gb/s controller allows you to create a RAID 0 or
RAID 1 array using two SATA hard disk drives. Refer to Chapter 2 of your motherboard user
manual for the exact location of the Marvell SATA 6.0 Gb/s connector.
To enter the Marvell utility, press <Ctrl> + <M> during POST.
All exisiting data on the hard disk drives will be erased when creating or deleting a RAID
array. Ensure that you have back up all your data in your hard disk drives before making
any change to the drive status.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Topology
Information
HBA 0: Marvell 0
Vendor ID
:
:
:
:
1B4B
├ Virtual Disks
Device ID
9130
└ Free Physical Disks
├ PD 0: ST3160812AS
└ PD 8: ST3160812AS
Revision ID
BIOS Version
Firmware Version:
PCIe Speed Rate :
Configure SATA as:
B1
1.0.0.1028
2.2.0.1105
5.0Gbps
AHCI Mode
▶
▶
Help
Marvell RAID on chip controller.
ENTER: Operation
F10: Exit/Save
ESC: Return
Create a RAID Array
1.
2.
Move the selection bar to HBA 0: Marvell 0 and press <Enter>.
Select Configuration Wizard and press <Enter>.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Configure->Select free disks
HBA 0: Marvell 0
├ Virtual Disks
Port ID
PD ID
Type
:
:
:
:
:
0
0
└ Free Physical Disks
SATA PD
Unconfigured
152626MB
MCQ 3G 48Bits
3G
ST3160812AS
9LS0F4HL
3.AAE
*
├ PD 0: ST3160812AS
└ PD 8: ST3160812AS
Status
Size
Feature Support :
Current Speed
Model
:
:
:
:
Serial
FW Version
▶
▶
Help
Use space bar to select the free disks to be used in the array.
ENTER: Operation SPACE: Select F10: Exit/Save ESC: Return
3.
Press <Space> to select the hard drives to be included in the RAID array.
An asterisk (*) appears in front of the selected hard drive. After selecting all the drives
needed for the RAID array, press <Enter> to continue.
4-26
Chapter 4: Software support
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Configure->Select free disksCreate Virtual Disk
HBA 0: Marvell 0
├ Virtual Disks
RAID Level
Max Size(MB)
Stripe Size
: RAID 0
: 305253
: 64KB
└ Free Physical Disks
*
*
├ PD 0: ST3160812AS
└ PD 8: ST3160812AS
Gigabyte Rounding : 1G
Quick Init
Name
Threshold(%)
Next
: Yes
: Default
: 90
▶
▶
Help
Virtual disk configurations.
ENTER: Select F10: Exit/Save
ESC: Return
4.
Use the up or down arrow key to move the selection bar and press <Enter> to
configure further RAID settings.
RAID Level: Select a RAID Level. Configuration options: [RAID 0] [RAID 1]
Stripe Size: Specifies the size of single data block on the virtual disk. In general, a
larger stripe size is recommended for applications requiring large data transfers such
as audio, video, and graphics. A smaller stripe size is better for applications with
content in much smaller size, such as e-mails and documents.
Configuration options: [32K] [64K]
Gigabyte Rounding: In the event of a single physical disk failure in a RAID 1 virtual
disk, Gigabyte Rounding allows the replacement physical disk to be of a size slightly
smaller than the existing physical disk. The capacity of the rebuilt virtual disk equals
to the size of the smaller physical disk included in the RAID 1 array. The configuration
options represent the tolerance value of drive capacity difference.
Configuration options: [None] [1G] [10G]
Name: Enter a name with 1–10 letters (no special characters) for the RAID array.
5.
Move the selection bar to Next and press <Enter>. The following warning message
appears:
Create Virtual Disk
Do you want to create this virtual disk ?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to create the RAID array, or press <N> to cancel. The new RAID array
appears under Virtual Disks, as shown in the image below.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-27
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Topology
Information
HBA 0: Marvell 0
├ Virtual Disks
│ └ VD 0: New_VD
Vendor ID
Device ID
Revision ID
:
:
:
:
1B4B
9130
B1
│
│
├ PD 0: ST3160812AS BIOS Version
1.0.0.1028
2.2.0.1105
5.0Gbps
AHCI Mode
└ PD 8: ST3160812AS Firmware Version:
└ Free Physical Disks
PCIe Speed Rate :
Configure SATA as:
▶
▶
Help
Marvell RAID on chip controller.
ENTER: Operation F10: Exit/Save
ESC: Return
6.
Press <F10>. The following warning message appears:
Exit
Do you want to exit from Marvell BIOS Setup?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to save the RAID setting and exit the Marvell RAID utility.
Delete an existing RAID Array
1.
Select the RAID array to delete and press <Enter>. Select Delete and press <Enter>.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Topology
Information
HBA 0: Marvell 0
├ Virtual Disks
│ └ VD 0: New_VD
ID
: 0
Name
: New_VD
: Functional
: 64K
tatus
│
│
├ PD 0: ST3160[Delete]tripte Size
└ PD 8: ST3160AID Mode
└ Free Physical Disks
: RAID0
: 304128MB
: N/A
: 2
: 0 8
Size
BGA Status
Number of PDs
Members
▶
▶
Help
Delete the selected virtual disk.
ENTER: Operation F10: Exit/Save
ESC: Return
4-28
Chapter 4: Software support
2.
The following warning message appears:
Delete Virtual Disk
Do you want to delete this virtual disk ?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to delete the selected RAID array. The following warning message appears:
Delete MBR
Do you want to delete MBR from this virtual disk ?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to delete the Master Boot Record (MBR) from the selected RAID array.
Press <F10>. The following warning message appears:
3.
Exit
Do you want to exit from Marvell BIOS Setup?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to save the RAID setting and exit the Marvell RAID utility.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-29
4.5
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.
Windows® XP may not recognize the USB floppy disk drive due to Windows® XP
limitation. To work around this OS limitation, refer to section 4.5.4 Using a USB
floppy disk drive.
4.5.1
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS
To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Boot your computer.
Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility.
Set the optical drive as the primary boot device.
Insert the support DVD into the optical drive.
Save changes and exit BIOS.
When the Make Disk menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk.
Insert a formatted floppy disk into the USB floppy disk drive, then press <Enter>.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
4.5.2
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®
To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Start Windows®.
Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk.
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.
Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click Intel X79 RAID Driver Disk to create a
RAID driver disk.
5.
Select USB floppy disk drive as the destination disk.
6.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid a computer virus infection.
4-30
Chapter 4: Software support
4.5.3
Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation
To install the RAID driver in Windows® XP:
1.
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-
party SCSI or RAID driver.
2.
Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the USB floppy disk drive.
3.
When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, select the RAID driver for the
corresponding OS version.
4.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
To install the RAID driver for Windows® Vista or later OS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation
media containing the RAID driver.
Insert the USB flash drive with RAID driver into the USB port or the support DVD into
the optical drive, and then click Browse.
Click the name of the device you’ve inserted, go to Drivers > RAID, and then select
the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. Click OK.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
Before loading the RAID driver from a USB flash drive, you have to use another computer
to copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to the USB flash drive.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-31
4.5.4
Using a USB floppy disk drive
Due to OS limitation, Windows® XP may not recognize the USB floppy disk drive when you
install the RAID driver from a floppy disk during the OS installation.
To solve this issue, add the USB floppy disk drive’s Vendor ID (VID) and Product ID (PID) to
the floppy disk containing the RAID driver. Refer to the steps below:
1.
Using another computer, plug the USB floppy disk drive, and insert the floppy disk
containing the RAID driver.
2.
Right-click My Computer on the
Windows® desktop or start menu,
and then select Manage from the
pop-up window.
or
3.
Select Device Manager. From the
Universal Serial Bus controllers,
right-click xxxxxx USB Floppy, and
then select Properties from the pop-up
window.
The name of the USB floppy disk
drive varies with different vendors.
4.
Click Details tab. The Vendor ID (VID)
and Product ID (PID) are displayed.
5.
Browse the contents of the RAID driver
disk to locate the file txtsetup.oem.
6.
Double-click the file. A window appears,
allowing you to select the program for
opening the oem file.
4-32
Chapter 4: Software support
7.
Use Notepad to open the file.
8.
9.
Find the [HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer] and
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer] sections in the txtsetup.oem
file.
Type the following line to the bottom of the two sections:
id = “USB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxx”, “usbstor”
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer]
id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1C02&CC_0106”,”iaStor”
id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor”
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer]
id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2822&CC_0104”,”iaStor”
id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor”
Add the same line to both sections.
The VID and PID vary with different vendors.
10. Save and exit the file.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
4-33
4-34
Chapter 4: Software support
Chapter 5
Chapter 5:
Multiple GPU technology support
5.1
AMD® CrossFireX™ technology
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.
5.1.1
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.
•
•
Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the AMD CrossFireX technology.
Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com).
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power
required by your system. See Chapter 2 for details.
•
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.
•
Visit the AMD Game website (http://game.amd.com) for the latest certified graphics
card and the supported 3D application list.
5.1.2
Before you begin
For AMD CrossFireX to work properly, you have to uninstall all existing graphics card drivers
before installing AMD CrossFireX graphics cards to your system.
To uninstall existing graphics card drivers:
1.
2.
Close all current applications.
For Windows XP, go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs.
For Windows Vista, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features.
3.
4.
Select your current graphics card driver/s.
For Windows XP, select Add/Remove.
For Windows Vista, select Uninstall.
5.
Turn off your computer.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
5-1
5.1.3
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.
2.
Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics
cards.
Insert the two graphics card into the
PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard
has more than two PCIEX16 slots,
refer to Chapter 2 in this user manual
for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots
recommended for multi-graphics card
installation.
4.
Align and firmly insert the CrossFireX
bridge connector to the goldfingers on
each graphics card. Ensure that the
connector is firmly in place.
goldfingers
CrossFireX bridge
(bundled with
graphics cards)
5.
6.
Connect two independent auxiliary power
sources from the power supply to the two
graphics cards separately.
Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the
graphics card.
5-2
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
5.1.4
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).
5.1.5
Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™
technology
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the CrossFireX™ feature
through the AMD Catalyst™ Control Center in Windows environment.
Launching the AMD VISION Engine Control Center
To launch the AMD VISION Engine Control Center:
1.
Right-click on the Windows® desktop and select
AMD VISION Engine Control Center. You can
also right-click the AMD icon in the Windows
notificAMDon area and select Vision Engine
Control Center.
2.
The VISION Engine Control Center
Setup Assistant appears when the
system detects the existance of multi-
graphics cards. Click Go to continue
to the VISION Engine Control Center
Advanced View window.
Enabling Dual CrossFireX technology
1.
In the Catalyst Control Center window,
click Graphics Settings > Performance
> AMD CrossFireXTM Configuration.
2
2.
From the Graphics Adapter list, select the
graphics card to act as the display GPU.
3
3.
4.
Select Enable CrossFireXTM
.
Click Apply, and then click OK to exit the
window.
1
4
ASUS P9X79 PRO
5-3
5.2
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.
5.2.1
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 (www.nvidia.com).
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power
required by your system. See Chapter 2 for details.
•
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.
•
Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified graphics
card and supported 3D application list.
5.2.2
Installing two SLI-ready 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.
2.
Prepare two SLI-ready graphics cards.
Insert the two graphics card into the
PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard
has more than two PCIEX16 slots,
refer to Chapter 2 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.
5-4
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
4.
5.
6.
Align and firmly insert the SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics
card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place.
Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two
graphics cards separately.
Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card.
SLI bridge
Goldfingers
5.2.3
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).
5.2.4
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® Vista™ operating system.
Launching the NVIDIA Control Panel
You can launch the NVIDIA Control Panel by the following two methods.
A.
Right click on the empty space of the Windows® desktop
and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears (See Step B5).
ASUS P9X79 PRO
5-5
B1. If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step
(A), select Personalize.
B2. From the Personalization window,
select Display Settings.
B3. From the Display Settings dialog box,
click Advanced Settings.
5-6
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
B4. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab, and
then click Start the NVIDIA Control
Panel.
B5. The NVIDIA Control Panel window
appears.
Enabling SLI settings
From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select
Set SLI Configuration. Click Enable SLI
and set the display for viewing SLI rendered
content. When done, click Apply.
ASUS P9X79 PRO
5-7
5-8
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
Address
Telephone
Fax
E-mail
Web site
15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
+886-2-2894-3447
+886-2-2890-7798
info@asus.com.tw
www.asus.com.tw
Technical Support
Telephone
Online support
+86-21-38429911
support.asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address
Telephone
Fax
800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
+1-812-282-3777
+1-510-608-4555
usa.asus.com
Web site
Technical Support
Telephone
Support fax
+1-812-282-2787
+1-812-284-0883
support.asus.com
Online support
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
Address
Fax
Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany
+49-2102-959911
Web site
Online contact
www.asus.de
www.asus.de/sales
Technical Support
Telephone
Support Fax
+49-1805-010923*
+49-2102-9599-11
support.asus.com
Online support
* EUR 0.14/minute from a German fixed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.
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