Asus Computer Hardware P9X79 E User Manual

P9X79-E  
WS  
 
Contents  
iii  
Contents  
iv  
Contents  
NVIDIA® CUDA™ technology ..................................................................5-15  
v
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  
1.1  
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® Corei7 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.  
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ASUS P9X79-E WS  
1-10  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
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.  
2-3  
ASUS P9X79-E WS  
 
2.2  
Motherboard overview  
2.2.1  
Motherboard layout  
Refer to 2.2.9 Internal Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and  
internal connectors.  
2-4  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
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
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  
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