Contents
Notices ....................................................................................................................... vi
About this guide......................................................................................................... ix
P9X79-E WS specifications summary...................................................................... xi
Welcome! ....................................................................................................1-3
Package contents.......................................................................................1-3
Special features..........................................................................................1-4
Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-3
Motherboard overview...............................................................................2-4
Starting up for the first time....................................................................2-52
iii
Contents
Turning off the computer.........................................................................2-52
Knowing BIOS............................................................................................3-3
BIOS setup program..................................................................................3-3
Main menu ..................................................................................................3-7
Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................................3-9
Advanced menu .......................................................................................3-24
Monitor menu ...........................................................................................3-35
Boot menu ................................................................................................3-38
Tools menu ...............................................................................................3-42
Exit menu..................................................................................................3-44
Updating BIOS..........................................................................................3-45
Support DVD information..........................................................................4-3
Software information.................................................................................4-5
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.
vi
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at
ASUS website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services
ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards
for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to
responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging
materials. Please go to http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm for detailed recycling
information in different regions.
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.
vii
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.
viii
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 ATI® 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.
2.
ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
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.
ix
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>
Command
Means that you must type the command exactly as shown,
then supply the required item or value enclosed in brackets.
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
BUPDATER /iP9X79WS.ROM
x
P9X79-E WS specifications summary
2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor for the LGA
CPU
2011 Socket
Intel® Xeon® E5-1600 processor for the LGA 2011 Socket
Intel® Xeon® E5-2600 processor for the LGA 2011 Socket
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0
*Refer to www.asus.com for CPU support list
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
Chipset
Memory
8 x DIMM, Max. 64GB, DDR3 2400 (O.C.)/ 2133
(O.C.)/1866 (O.C.)/1600/1333/1066 MHz, ECC, 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
4 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots (dual@x16/x16; Quad@x16/x16/
x16/x16, blue)
3 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot (@x8 mode, black)
* 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.
Supports NVIDIA® 4-Way SLI™ Technology
Supports AMD® 4-Way CrossFireX™ Technology
Multi-GPU support
Up to 3 NVIDIA® Tesla cards and Intel® Xeon® phi cards
GPU support
Storage
Intel® X79 Express Chipset:
-
-
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0 and 1 support
4 x SATA 3Gb/s ports with RAID 0,1,5 and 10
support
Marvell® 9230 SATA controllers:
-
4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0,1,5 and 10
support
2 x Intel® i210 Gigabit LAN controller
LAN
USB
ASMedia USB 3.0 controllers
-
-
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel
support, blue
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at back panel
Intel®X79 Express Chipset
-
13 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (3 ports at mid-board,
black+white, 10 ports at back panel)
(continued on the next page)
xi
P9X79-E WS specifications summary
1394
VIA VT6315N controller support 1x1394a port
Realtek® ALC 1150 8-channel High Definition Audio
Audio
CODEC
-
-
-
Supports 192kHz/ 24bit BD Lossless Sound
DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC II
Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-Streaming, and
Front Panel Jack-Retasking
-
Optical S/PDIF Out port at back I/O
ASUS Unique Features
Industry leading Digital 8+2 Phase Power Design
Industry leading Digital 2+2 Phase Power Design
ASUS TPU
ASUS EPU
ASUS Exclusive Features
-
ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly
graphics user interface
ASUS SSD Caching II
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 CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS MyLogo 2
ASUS Q-Design
ASUS Q-Code
ASUS Shield
ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-DIMM
Workstation Unique
Features
ASUS Dr. Power
7 x PCIe x16 slots
Quick Gate: 1 vertical USB 2.0 on board
ASUS WS Diag. LED
(continued on the next page)
xii
P9X79-E WS specifications summary
Back Panel I/O Ports
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)
10 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (white port can be switched to
USB BIOS Flashback)
1 x USB BIOS Flashback Switch
1 x PS/2 KB/MS port
2 x eSATA 6Gb/s ports
2 x LAN (RJ45) ports (2 x Intel® LAN)
1 x optical S/PDIF Out port
8-channel Audio I/O
Internal I/O Connectors
1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector support additional 2 USB ports
(19-pin)
1 x USB 2.0/1/1 connectors support additional 2 USB
ports
1 x USB 2.0/1.1 trpe A vertical ports
6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors
1 x IEEE1394a connector
1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin)
1 x CPU Opt Fan connectors (4-pin)
4 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin)
1 x Front panel audio connector(AAFP)
1 x S/PDIF Out header
1 x 19-pin TPM header
1 x Serial port header
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector
1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
1 x 6-pin EATX12_1 Power connector
1 x System Panel (Q-Connector)
1 x MemOK! Button
1 x EPU switch
1 x TPU switch
1 x Dr.Power switch
1 x PWR button
1 x Reset button
BIOS Features
64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0,
SM BIOS 2.6, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ
Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
Manageability
OS
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE
8 32/64 bit and 7 32/64 bit
Form Factor
CEB Form Factor, 12" x 10.5"
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
xiii
xiv
Chapter 1:
Product Introduction
1
Chapter summary
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports. This
chapter contains the following sections:
Welcome! ....................................................................................................1-3
Package contents.......................................................................................1-3
Special features..........................................................................................1-4
ASUS P9X79-E WS
1.1
Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS P9X79-E WS 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.
Motherboard
I/O modules
ASUS P9X79-E WS
1 x 2-port USB 2.0 + 1-port 1394 module
4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s power cables
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
1 x COM port cable
Cables
1 x ASUS Q-Shield (I/O shield)
1 x ASUS 2-in-1 Q-Connector Kit (Retail version only)
1 x 2-Way SLI bridge connector
1 x 3-Way SLI bridge connector
1 x 4-Way SLI bridge connector
ASUS motherboard support DVD
User guide
Accessories
Application DVD
Documentation
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
1-3
ASUS P9X79-E WS
1.3
Special features
1.3.1
Product highlights
Intel® Socket 2011 for 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Extreme
Edition
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Extreme
in LGA2011 package, with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to quad-
channel (8 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 40 PCI Express 2.0 lanes. This provides great
graphicsperformance. Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Extreme 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.
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.
Quad-Channel DDR3 2400(O.C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866(O.C.)/1600/1333/1066 MHz
Support
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 2400(O.
C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866(O.C.)/1600/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements
ofthe latest operation system, 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The
quadchannel 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.
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.
Complete USB 3.0 Integration
ASUS facilitates strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear panel – 4USB 3.0
ports in total. Experience the latest plug & play connectivity at speeds up to 10 times faster
than USB 2.0. The P9X79-E WS affords greater convenience to high speed connectivity.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Power eSATA 6Gb/s Ready
2X faster with fully charged power
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.
1.3.2
ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features
Best graphics performance for 4-Way NVIDIA® GeForce® SLI™ and AMD
CrossFireX™ PCI-E X16 link
Native third generation PCI-Expressx16 4-way SLI™ offers the fastest and most reliable
graphics performance ever. It's ideal for professional use in mechanical, architectural, interior
design, aeronautics, audio and video design applications. Additionally, this ample graphics
power can easily run even the most demanding PC games in full detail for enhanced
entertainment.
Built-in Dual Intel Server-Class Gigabit LAN
To enhance network reliability, the P9X79-E WS is built in dual Intel® Gigabit LAN that
features lower CPU utilization, less package drop rate, wide driver supported. Base on
performance testing, CPU utilization of Intel lan can achieve great improvement to allocate
CPU resource more efficiently. Intel lan also support teaming and fault-tolerance functions,
the two LAN ports provide double the bandwidth and network redundancy.
Quad-GPU CrossFireX Support!
P9X79-E WS brings you the multi-GPU choice of either SLI™ or CrossFireX™. The
motherboard features the most powerful Intel® X79 platform to optimize PCIe allocation in
multiple GPU configurations. Expect a brand-new gaming style you’ve never experienced
before!
Diagnosis LED
Diagnosis LED checks key components (CPU, memory, graphics card and hard drive) in
sequence during bootup. If an error is found, the LED next to the relevant device will stay lit
until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate root
problems in seconds.
Quick Gate
Quick Gate is a vertical USB connector on the motherboard, allowing you to install USB
devices directly with no messy cables. This stops important data storage devices from
breaking off unexpectedly. P9X79-E WS with this unique design provides a convenient and
safe way to install data and applications on your PC.
ASUS Doctor Power
ASUS Doctor Power is an ensemble of LEDs, switches, and application that automatically
detects and diagnoses related issues regarding your power supply unit (PSU). It generally
allows you to monitor the health of your PSU and provide notification or warning messages
to prevent any sudden system shutdown or failure due to insufficient supply of power to your
system.
1-5
ASUS P9X79-E WS
1.3.3
ASUS features
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.
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.
ASUS SSD Caching II
Multiple SSD Caching, Instant Upgraded Speed
ASUS SSD Caching II has been upgraded with a multiple caching function, adding four extra
SATA 6Gb/s onboard. This feature offers performance upgrades by using multiple installed
SSDs with no capacity limitations as a cache for frequently accessed data. It also allows user
to choose the combination that suits their needs. For example, you can choose three SSDs
matched with one HDD or two SSDs with two HDDs. Harness a combination of SSD-like
performance and response and hard drive capacity with a single click, without the need
to reboot for instant activation and complete ease of use. As an added bonus, it can even
prevent data loss with the included backup function, so you can rest easy knowing your data
is secure.
1-6
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
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 technology, the performance of a USB
device transmission speed is significantly increased up to 130% (TBD), adding to an already
impressive fast USB 3.0 transfer speed. With USB 3.0 Boost technology, the system provides
a user-friendly graphical interface, which spontaneously accelerates the transfer speed
through USB 3.0 peripherals with an ASUS exclusive auto-detect setting.
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
TurboVfunctions. 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
frequenciesand ratios for optimized performance in diverse situations.
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-inone
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 technology, the performance of a USB
device transmission speed is significantly increased up to 130% (TBD), adding to an already
impressive fast USB 3.0 transfer speed. With USB 3.0 Boost technology, the system provides
a user-friendly graphical interface, which spontaneously accelerates the transfer speed
through USB 3.0 peripherals with an ASUS exclusive auto-detect setting.
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 Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the overclocking
capability.
1-7
ASUS P9X79-E WS
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.
ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows users to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan
speed according to different ambient temperature, which is caused by different climate
conditions in different geographic regions and system loading. Built-in variety of useful
profiles offer flexible controls of fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool environment.
ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer components,
update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.
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.
1-8
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
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.
1.3.4
Other special features
DTS UltraPC II
DTS UltraPC II delivers exceptional 7.1 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.
1-9
ASUS P9X79-E WS
1-10
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Chapter 2:
Hardware Information
2
Chapter summary
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system
components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard. This
chapter contains the following sections:
Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-3
Motherboard overview...............................................................................2-4
Starting up for the first time....................................................................2-52
Turning off the computer.........................................................................2-52
ASUS P9X79-E WS
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.
2-3
ASUS P9X79-E WS
2.2.2
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Switches/Slots
Page
1.
ATX Power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V, 6-pin
2-35
EATX12V_1)
2.
3.
4.
DDR3 DIMM slots
LGA2011 CPU Socket
2-7
2-6
CPU, CPU OPT, Chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN,
4-pin CHA_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)
2-32
5.
Reset switch
2-11
2-11
2-14
2-13
2-12
2-29
2-26
6.
Power-on switch
7.
ASUS Dr._POWER switch
MemOK! switch
8.
9.
EPU Switch
10.
11.
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])
12.
13.
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])
Marvell® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2/E3/E4 [gray])
2-27
2-28
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
Q-Code LED
2-16
2-36
2-30
2-34
2-31
2-34
2-24
2-25
2-12
2-33
2-31
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
USB 2.0 connectors (Type A: USB13; 10-1 pin USB1112)
TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_1)
Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CHAFAN_SEL)
TPU switch
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
2-5
ASUS P9X79-E WS
2.2.3
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA2011 socket designed for the 2nd Generation
Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition.
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.
2-6
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.4
System memory
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules
(DIMM) slots.
A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR
or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.
Recommended memory configurations
DIMM_A1
DIMM_B1
DIMM_D1
DIMM_B1
DIMM_D1
DIMM_D1
DIMM_C1
DIMM_A1
DIMM_B1
DIMM_A1
DIMM_A2
DIMM_B1
DIMM_B2
DIMM_D2
DIMM_D1
DIMM_C1
DIMM_B2
DIMM_D2
DIMM_D1
DIMM_C2
DIMM_C1
2-7
ASUS P9X79-E WS
Memory configurations
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB unbuffered ECC or non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the
DIMM sockets depending on the installed CPU.
•
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.
•
•
•
•
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect
the CPU.
The max. 64GB memory capacity can be supported with DIMMs of 8GB (or above).
ASUS will update QVL once the DIMMs are available on the market.
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.
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).
For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full memory
load (8 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
P9X79-E WS Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists
Refer to www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).
2-8
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.5
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.
No.
1
Slot Description
PCIEX16_1 PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 mode, blue)
PCIEX16_2 PCIe 3.0 x16_6 slot (x8 mode, black)
PCIEX16_3 PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode, blue)
PCIEX16_4 PCIe 3.0 x16_6 slot (x8 mode, black)
PCIEX16_5 PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 mode, blue)
PCIEX16_6 PCIe 3.0 x16_6 slot (x8 mode, black)
PCIEX16_7 PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode, blue)
2
3
4
5
6
7
2-9
ASUS P9X79-E WS
PCIe Express 3.0 operating mode
Slot
no.
3-WAY SLI/
CrossFireX
4-WAY SLI/
CrossFireX
Single VGA
SLI/CrossFireX
x 16
1
3
5
7
x16
x16
x16
x16
x16
x16
x16
x16
(single VGA recommended
x16
(dual VGA recommended)
•
We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™
mode.
•
Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when
using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A
B
C
D
E
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–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
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F
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
G
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
H
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
PCIEx16_1
shared
–
–
–
PCIEx16_2
shared
–
–
–
PCIEx16_3
shared
–
–
–
PCIEx16_4
shared
–
–
–
PCIEx16_5
shared
–
–
–
PCIEx16_6
shared
–
–
–
PCIEx16_7
shared
–
–
–
Marvell9230
VIA1394
shared
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
Asmedia USB3.0-1
Asmedia USB3.0-2
LAN1 (I210)
LAN2 (I210)
–
–
shared
–
shared
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
SATA Controller 1
SATA Controller 2
USB 2.0 Controller 1
USB 2.0 Controller 2
HD Audio
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
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–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
shared
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
Asmedia SATA 6G
shared
–
2-10
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.6
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 button
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 button
Press the reset switch to reboot the system.
2-11
ASUS P9X79-E WS
3.
EPU switch
Turning this switch to Enable will automatically detect the current PC loadings and
intelligently moderate the power consumption.
For ensuring system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is
powered off.
4.
TPU switch
Turning this switch to Enable will automatically optimize the system for fast, yet stable
clock speeds.
For ensuring system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is
powered off.
2-12
Chapter 2: Hardware information
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