SABERTOOTH
Z77
Contents
About this guide........................................................................................................ vii
Welcome! ....................................................................................................1-1
Package contents.......................................................................................1-1
Special features..........................................................................................1-2
Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-1
Motherboard overview...............................................................................2-2
iii
Contents
Starting up for the first time....................................................................2-44
Turning off the computer.........................................................................2-44
Knowing BIOS............................................................................................3-1
BIOS setup program..................................................................................3-1
Main menu ..................................................................................................3-5
Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................................3-7
Advanced menu .......................................................................................3-20
Monitor menu ...........................................................................................3-32
Boot menu ................................................................................................3-37
Tool menu .................................................................................................3-39
Exit menu..................................................................................................3-41
Updating BIOS..........................................................................................3-42
Support DVD information..........................................................................4-1
Software information.................................................................................4-3
iv
Contents
RAID configurations ................................................................................4-28
Creating a RAID driver disk.....................................................................4-45
LucidLogix Virtu MVP................................................................................5-8
Notices .................................................................................................................... A-1
v
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.
vi
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™,
NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards, and LucidLogix Virtu MVP.
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.
vii
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>
viii
SABERTOOTH Z77 specifications summary
CPU
LGA 1155 socket for Intel® 3rd/2nd generation Core™ i7/i5/i3/
Pentium®/Celeron® Processors
Supports 22/32nm CPU
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0
* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the
CPU types
** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list
Chipset
Memory
Intel® Z77 Express Chipset
4 x DIMM, Max. 32GB, DDR3 1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz,
non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Dual channel memory architecture
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)
* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics
of the individual CPUs. Please refer to Memory QVL (Qualified
Vendors) list for details.
** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory
QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists)
Expansion Slots
2 x PCI Express 3.0*/2.0 x16 slots (single at x16, dual at x8/x8)
1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot** [black] (Max. at x4 mode,
compatible with PCIe x1 and x4 devices)
3 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots
* PCIe 3.0 speed is supported by Intel® 3rd generation Core™
processors.
** The PCIe 2.0 x16 slot shares bandwidth with PCIe 2.0 x1_1
slot, PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot, and PCIe 2.0 x1_3 slot. The PCIe 2.0
x16 slot default setting is in x1 mode.
Multi-GPU Support
Integrated Graphics Processor - Intel HD Graphics support
Supports NVIDIA® Quad-GPU SLI™ Technology
Supports AMD® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
Supports LucidLogix Virtu MVP Technology*
* LucidLogix Virtu MVP supports Windows 7 operating systems.
Storage
Intel® Z77 Express Chipset
-
-
-
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports (brown) with RAID 0,1, 5, and 10 support
4 x SATA 3Gb/s ports (black) with RAID 0,1, 5, and 10 support
Supports Intel® Smart Response Technology, and Intel® Rapid
Start Technology*
2 x ASMedia® 1061 SATA controllers**
-
-
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports (gray)
2 x eSATA 6Gb/s ports (red)
* Supports on Intel® Core processor family with Windows 7
operating systems.
** These SATA ports are for data hard drivers only. ATAPI devices
are not supported.
LAN
Intel® 82579V Gigabit LAN controller
Audio
Realtek® ALC892 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC
-
-
-
Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit True BD Lossless Sound
BD Audio Layer Content Protection
Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-Streaming, and Front Panel
Jack-Retasking
-
Optical S/PDIF Out port at back I/O
(continued on the next page)
ix
SABERTOOTH Z77 specifications summary
USB
Intel® Z77 Express Chipset - supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost
UASP Mode*
-
4 x USB 3.0 ports (2 ports at mid-board, 2 ports at back panel)
ASMedia® 1042 USB 3.0 controllers - supports ASUS USB 3.0
Boost UASP Mode
-
2 x USB 3.0 ports at the back panel (blue)
Intel® Z77 Express Chipset
-
10 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 4 ports at back
panel)
* USB 3.0 ports only support Windows® 7 or later versions.
UASP standard only supports Windows® OS versions that
are released after Windows® 7.
Exclusive TUF Features
“Ultimate COOL!” Thermal Solutions
-
-
TUF Thermal Armor
TUF Thermal Radar
“TUF ENGINE!” Power Design
-
-
8+4+2 Digital Phase Power Design
TUF Components (Choke, Cap. & MOSFET; certified by
military-standard)
-
ASUS DIGI+ Power Control Utility
“Safe & Stable!” Guardian Angel
-
-
-
-
Dust Defender
ESD Guards
MemOK!
Anti Surge
Other Special Features
USB 3.0 Boost featuring the latest USB 3.0 UASP standard
USB BIOS Flashback with USB BIOS Flashback Wizard for EZ
BIOS download scheduling
USB Charger+ featuring quick-charging function for all devices
Network iControl featuring instant network bandwidth domination
for top network program in use
LucidLogix Virtu MVP
ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user
interface
AI Suite II
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS Q-DIMM
ASUS O.C. Profile
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS MyLogo 2™
Multi-language BIOS
(continued on the next page)
x
SABERTOOTH Z77 specifications summary
Back Panel I/O Ports
1 x DisplayPort
1 x HDMI port
1 x Optical S/PDIF Output
1 x USB BIOS Flashback Button
2 x eSATA 6Gb/s ports
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue, 1 supports USB BIOS Flashback)
4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
8-channel Audio I/O ports
Internal I/O Connectors
1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0/2.0
ports (19-pin; moss green)
3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0/1.1
ports
4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (2 x brown; 2 x gray)
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors (black)
1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin black)
1 x CPU OPT fan connector (4-pin black)
4 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin black)
2 x Assistant Fan connectors (3-pin white)
1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
1 x S/PDIF Out header
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 Clear CMOS jumper
BIOS Features
64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0,
SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS,
ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3, F12 PrintScreen
Function, F3 Shortcut Function, and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial
Presence Detect) memory information
Manageability
Support DVD
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, PXE
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.
xi
xii
Chapter 1
Chapter 1:
Product introduction
1.1
Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® SABERTOOTH Z77 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 SABERTOOTH Z77
User guide
Support DVD
motherboard
1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge
connector
2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
1 x ASUS Q-Shield
2 x Accessory Fans
1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit
3 x PCIe x16 Slot dust covers
3 x PCIe x1 Slot dust covers
2 x DRAM slot dust covers
1 x Adhesive sponge for 35mm
fan
2 x short fan screws
4 x long fan screws
Five-year warranty
1 x TUF Five-year warranty
manual (by region)
1 x TUF Certification card
40mm I/O Cover fan lid
•
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.
1-1
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
1.3
Special features
1.3.1
Product highlights
LGA1155 socket for Intel® 3rd/2nd Generation Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 /
Core™ i3 / Pentium® / Celeron® Processors
This motherboard supports the Intel® 3rd/2nd generation Core™ i7/i5/i3/Pentium®/Celeron®
processors in the LGA1155 package, with iGPU, memory, and PCI Express controllers
integrated to support onboard graphics out with dedicated chipsets, 2-channel (4 DIMMs)
DDR3 memory, and 16 PCI Express 3.0/2.0 lanes. This provides great graphics performance.
Intel® 3rd/2nd generation Core™ i7/i5/i3/Pentium®/Celeron® processors are among the most
powerful and energy efficient CPUs in the world.
Intel® Z77 Express Chipset
The Intel® Z77 Express Chipset is a single-chipset designed to support the 1155 socket Intel®
3rd/2nd generation Core™ i7/i5/ i3/Pentium®/Celeron® processors. It provides improved
performance by utilizing serial point-to-point links, allowing increased bandwidth and stability.
Additionally, Z77 chipset provides 4 USB 3.0 ports for 10 times faster data retrieval speed.
Moreover, Intel® Z77 Express Chipset can also enable iGPU function, letting users enjoy the
latest Intel® integrated graphic performance.
PCI Express® 3.0
PCI Express® 3.0 (PCIe 3.0) is the latest PCI Express bus standard with improved encoding
schemes that provide twice the performance of the current PCIe 2.0. The total bandwidth
for a x16 link reaches a maximum of 32Gb/s, double the 16Gb/s of PCIe 2.0 (in x16 mode).
As such, PCIe 3.0 provides users an unprecedented data speeds, combined with the
convenience and seamless transition offered by complete backward compatibility with PCIe
1.0 and PCIe 2.0 devices. PCIe 3.0 will become a must-have feature for users who wish to
improve and optimize graphic performance, as well as have the latest technology available to
them.
* PCI 3.0 speed is supported by Intel® 3rd generation Core™ processors.
Dual-Channel 1866 / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz Support
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of DDR3
1866 / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest
3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture
enlarges the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance.
Quad-GPU SLI™ and Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Support
Flexible Multi-GPU Solutions, Your Weapon of Choice!
SABERTOOTH Z77 brings you the multi-GPU choice of either SLI™ or CrossFireX. The
motherboard features the most powerful Intel® Z77 platform to optimize PCIe allocation in
multiple GPU configurations. Expect a brand-new gaming style you’ve never experienced
before!
1-2
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Intel® Smart Response Technology
SSD Speed with HDD Capacity
Intel® Smart Response Technology boosts overall system performance. It uses an installed
fast SSD (min 18.6GB available capacity required) as a cache for frequently accessed data.
Key benefits include reduced load and wait times, and lower power consumption through the
elimination of unnecessary hard drive spin. This technology combines SSD performance with
hard drive capacity, operating up to 4X faster than a hard drive-only system, and an important
part of Green ASUS eco-friendly computing.
* Intel® Smart Response Technology is supported by 2nd/3rd generation Intel® Core™ processor
family on Windows® 7™ operating systems.
** Operating systems must be installed on the HDD to launch Intel® Smart Response Technology.
The capacity of the SSD is reserved for caching function.
Intel® Smart Connect Technology
Your computer could receive web updates with fresh content for selected applications even
when setting the system to sleep. This means less time waiting for applications to start,
update and sync with the Cloud, providing a more efficient way.
Intel® Rapid Start Technology
Allows your computer to quickly resume from a low-power hibernate state in seconds. Saving
system memory to the designed SSD provides your computer a faster wake-up response
time, while keeping the energy use low.
Complete USB 3.0 Integration
Double USB Access, Double Convenience
ASUS facilitates the strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear panel with 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 SABERTOOTH Z77 affords greater convenience to high speed
connectivity.
Extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s Support
Extra Ports, Extra Speed and Accessibility
The Intel® Z77 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.
1.3.2
“Ultimate COOL!” Thermal Solutions
TUF Thermal Armor
New generation Thermal Armor boosts cooling with dual turbo fans, enhancing the original
TUF thermal design, and helping direct hot air away from components and the motherboard
via smart shunt funneling. It covers the entire board with more powerful airflow, and uses
special heat pipes to expedite thermal removal, and make sure temperatures stay low. The
dedicated I/O cover fan draws additional cold air in, and expels even more heat for improved
stability, plus new Thermal Armor comes with special convection holes in the PCB to facilitate
underside flow. It now sports a military-themed style, perfect for case modders.
1-3
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
TUF Thermal Radar
The TUF Thermal Radar monitors temperatures in critical parts of the motherboard in real
time, automatically adjusting fan speeds to make sure the system maintains high stability.
It consists of multiple sensors, giving users the ability to track each individually. Automatic
calculation of ideal fan speeds based on different parameters selected manually for
components has everything cooler and longer-lasting. New Fan Overtime keeps the two
turbo fans running a few minutes post shutdown on standby power to remove the remaining
heat. Stopping high temperatures from lingering in the case where they can cause damage,
it extends system longevity, dropping the heat by as much as 7oC in just ten minutes. To
prolong fan lifespan, reduce noise, and lower power consumption, the new Fan Off has been
added, automatically shutting off fans under either preset or manually-selected temperature
thresholds.
1.3.3
“TUF ENGINE!” Power Design
New DIGI+ Power Control
New DIGI+ Power Control includes multiple digital voltage controllers, allowing extra precise
modulation and tuning of CPU, iGPU, and DRAM. This innovative and industry-leading ASUS
technology provides an extremely accurate voltage tuning for better efficiency, stability, and
performance. With the next generation Intel VRD 12.5 future power design, CPU wattage can
be decreased by half, creating a cooler and quieter PC. This innovation of industry-leading
ASUS technology provides the smartest control for better power saving scenarios.
TUF Components (Choke, Cap. & MOSFET; certified by military-
standard)
Get rugged performance even in the most challenging conditions with robust TUF chokes,
solid capacitors, and MOSFETs – certified through third-party, military-grade testing. TUF
Chokes, also known as the “Alloy Choke”, is made of a compound of various types of
metal instead standard iron, enables the support of up to a massive 40A of rated current,
25% higher than conventional component. Furthermore, the single piece packaging also
eliminates the emission of vibration noise, delivering superb characteristics as well as
durability under extreme conditions.
1.3.4
“Safe & Stable!” Guardian Angel
Dust Defender
Dust particles and environmental contamination present a constant hazard to the optimal
functioning of slots and connectors. Build up on contact points within slots compromises
data transfer over time, negating the benefits of expensive and critical components such
as graphics cards. Custom TUF design keeps this in mind with special shields that resist
particulate entry, effectively extending slot and connector lifespan while promoting better
performance.
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 fail-safe
settings and dramatically improves your system boot success.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
ESD Guards
ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) Guards provides protection against electrostatic discharges,
which can damage the motherboard’s components. The ASUS exclusive Anti-Static chip
and circuit design, and the I/O shield provide four times better protection and ensure the
motherboard’s lifespan.
1.3.5
ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)
ASUS UEFI BIOS is a mouse-controlled user-friendly graphics interface that allows you
to easily select performance settings, and drag and drop boot priorities with its EZ Mode
interface. Its Advanced Mode interface allows you to configure more advanced BIOS settings.
ASUS Q-Design
DIY Quickly, DIY Easily!
ASUS Q-Slot and Q-DIMM design speed up, simplify, and enhances your DIY (Do-It-Yourself)
experience.
ASUS Q-Shield
Easy and Comfortable Installations
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
Make Connection Quick and Accurate!
The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables
in one easy step with one complete module. This unique adapter eliminates the trouble of
plugging in one cable at a time, making the connection quick and accurate.
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.
1.3.6
ASUS Exclusive Features
USB 3.0 Boost
ASUS USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) and
automatically increases a USB 3.0 device’s transfer speed up to 170%.
1-5
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
USB Charger+
With a dedicated onboard controller, quick-charge your USB devices such iProducts,
smartphones, tablets, and other portable devices 50% faster, even when the PC is powered
off, in sleep, or hibernation.
* USB Charger+ only applies to the bottom port of USB3_12.
USB BIOS Flashback
With USB BIOS Flashback, simply connect a USB flash drive containing the UEFI BIOS file
to the USB 3.0 port, press the BIOS Flashback button for three seconds, and the BIOS is
updated automatically. With its Windows-compatible application, you can regularly check for
UEFI BIOS updates and download the latest UEFI BIOS automatically.
* USB BIOS Flashback only applies to the bottom port of USB3_12.
Network iControl
ASUS Network iControl is an intuitive one-stop network control center that makes it easier
for you to manage your network bandwidth and allows you to set, monitor, and schedule the
bandwidth priorities for your network programs. It also allows you to automatically connect to
a PPPoE network for a more convenient online experience.
1.3.7
Other special features
LucidLogix Virtu MVP
LucidLogix Virtu MVP featuring HyperFormance™ Technology boosts your PCIe graphics
card up to 30% beyond its original performance. Designed for Intel® processor graphics and
Windows® 7 PCs, it perfectly combines the performance of discrete graphic cards with fast
computing iGPU. Also, with newly designed Virtual Sync, users can enjoy a smoother gaming
experience by eliminating tearing artifacts. LucidLogix Virtu MVP can also dynamically
assigns tasks to the best available graphics resource, based on power, performance, and
system load. This allows users to fully utilize 3x faster video conversion with Intel® Quick
Sync Video technology while retaining high-end 3D rendering and gaming performance,
provided by both NVIDIA and AMD graphic cards. When the PCIe graphic cards are not
required, the graphics control switches to the Intel® processor graphics, reducing the PCIe
graphics power use down to zero, making the system more environment-friendly. For users
searching for perfection, LucidLogix Virtu MVP provides great graphical performance, and
best quality and efficiency.
* LucidLogix Virtu MVP supports Windows® operating system.
** Intel® Quick Sync Video feature is supported by 3rd/2nd generation Intel® Core™ processor
family
1-6
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
DisplayPort 1.1a Support
DisplayPort is a digital display interface standard that delivers up to 10.8 Gbps of bandwidth
over standard cables, providing billions of colors and bidirectional communications, thus
enabling the fastest refresh rates, and the highest resolution digital display through a single
cable. Also, it supports HDCP copy protection for Blu-ray discs. Simply output 3D signals
through the connected DisplayPort 1.1a cable with your 3D display, then you can sit back and
enjoy a perfect 3D animation experience.
HDMI 1.4a Support
High Definition Multimedia Surface (HDMI) is a set of digital video standards that delivers
multi-channel audio and uncompressed digital video for full HD 1080p visuals through a
single cable. Supporting HDCP copy protection such as HD DVD and blu-ray discs, HDMI
provides you with the highest quality home theater experience.
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 consumption.
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.
1-7
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
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.
2-1
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots
Page
1.
2.
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)
2-24
CPU, chassis, and assistant fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN1–4, CPU_OPT, 3-pin ASST_FAN)
2-22
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
LGA1155 CPU socket
DDR3 DIMM slots
2-4
2-5
MemOK! switch
2-15
2-20
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)
Intel® Z77 Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [brown])
2-17
2-18
2-19
8.
9.
Intel® Z77 Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [black])
ASMedia® Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [gray])
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910)
Standby power LED (SB_PWR)
2-25
2-21
2-16
2-14
2-23
2-21
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
2-3
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.2.2
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1155 socket designed for the Intel®
3rd/2nd Generation Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 / Pentium / Celeron Processors.
Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
•
•
The LGA1156 CPU is incompatible with the LGA1155 socket. DO NOT install a
LGA1156 CPU on the LGA1155 socket.
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
LGA1155 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
2.2.3
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
2-5
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Memory configurations
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the
DIMM sockets.
•
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A, and Channel B. The system maps
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
•
•
•
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V 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.
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 (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
2-6
Chapter 2: Hardware information
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1333 MHz capability
DIMM socket support
(Optional)
SS/
DS
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip Brand Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
1
2
4
DIMM DIMM DIMM
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
Apacer
AD63I1B0823EV
2GB
SS A-DATA
SS
3CCA-1509A
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AXDU1333GC2G9(XMP) 2GB
-
9-9-9-24
AD63I1C1624EV
SU3U1333W8G9(XMP)
78.A1GC6.9L1
4GB
8GB
2GB
4GB
DS A-DATA
DS ELPIDA
DS Apacer
DS Apacer
3CCA-1509A
J4208BASE-DJ-F
AM5D5808FEQSBG
AM5D5908CEHSBG
-
-
-
-
-
9
-
Apacer
78.B1GDE.9L10C
TW3X4G1333C9A
9
-
CORSAIR
4GB
DS
-
9-9-9-24
1.5
(2x2GB)
CORSAIR
CMX8GX3M2A1333C9
(XMP)
8GB
( 2x4GB)
DS
-
-
9-9-9-24
1.5
•
•
•
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
G.SKILL
EBJ20UF8BCF0-DJ-F
EBJ41UF8BCF0-DJ-F
F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT
2GB
4GB
SS Elpida
J2108BCSE-DJ-F
J2108BCSE-DJ-F
D3 128M8CE9 2GB
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
DS ELPIDA
DS G.SKILL
-
-
4GB
(2x2GB)
9-9-9-24
1.5
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL
F3-10666CL9D-8GBXL
GET316GB1333C9QC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GB34GB1333C7DC
GVP38GB1333C9DC
8GB
(2x4GB)
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
7-7-7-24
9-9-9-24
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.3
1.3
1.5
1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
8GB (
2x4GB)
16GB
(4x4GB)
GEIL
4GB
(2x2GB)
DS GEIL
DS GEIL
DS GEIL
GL1L128M88BA
115FW
GEIL
4GB
(2x2GB)
GL1L128M88BA
15B
GEIL
4GB
(2x2GB)
GL1L128M88BA15FW
GEIL
8GB
DS
-
-
(2x4GB)
Hynix
HMT325U6BFR8C-H9
HMT125U6TFR8A-H9
FLFE85F-C8KL9
FLFE85F-C8KM9
FLFE85F-B8KL9
2GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
4GB
2GB
2GB
SS Hynix
H5TQ2G83BFR
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hynix
DS Hynix
H5TC1G83TFR
-
-
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
SS KINGMAX
SS Kingmax
DS KINGMAX
DS KINGMAX
DS Kingmax
SS Micron
KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A
KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A
KFB8FNLXL-BNF-15A
KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A
KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A
IFD77 D9LGK
-
-
-
-
-
-
FLFF65F-C8KL9
-
-
FLFF65F-C8KM9
-
-
KINGSTON KVR1333D3S8N9/2G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G
-
1.5
1.5
1.25
DS Kingston
D1288JPNDPLD9U
-
9
9
KINGSTON KHX1333C9D3UK2/4GX
(XMP)
4GB
(2x2GB)
DS
-
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9K2/4G
4GB
(2x2GB)
DS KINGSTON D1288JEMFPGD9U
-
1.5
•
•
•
•
•
KINGSTON KVR1333D3E9S/4G
4GB
DS Elpida
SS Micron
SS Micron
SS Micron
SS MICRON
DS Micron
J2108ECSE-DJ-F
D9LGQ
D9LGK
D9LGK
D9PFJ
9
1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
OCZ
MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1 1GB
-
-
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1 2GB
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1 2GB
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4M1 2GB
MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1 4GB
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
-
D9LGK
-
-
-
OCZ3G1333LV4GK
OCZ3G1333LV8GK
OCZ3G1333LV8GK
4GB
(2x2GB)
DS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
9-9-9
1.65
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
8GB
(2x4GB)
-
-
-
9-9-9
9-9-9
9-9-9
1.65
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
8GB
(2x4GB)
OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK 8GB
(2x4GB)
•
PSC
PSC
PC310600U-9-10-A0
PC310600U-9-10-B0
1GB
SS PSC
DS PSC
A3P1GF3FGF
A3P1GF3FGF
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2GB
2GB
SAMSUNG M378B5773DH0-CH9
SS SAMSUNG K4B2G08460
2-7
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1333 MHz capability (continued)
DIMM socket support
(Optional)
SS/
DS
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip Brand Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
1
2
4
DIMM DIMM DIMM
SAMSUNG M378B5673FH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273DH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B1G73AH0-CH9
2GB
4GB
4GB
8GB
DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C
DS SAMSUNG K4B2G08460
DS SAMSUNG K4B4G0846A-HCH9
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
K4B2G0846C
-
-
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
JM1333KLN-2G (582670) 2GB
SS Micron
ICD77 C9LGK
TK483PCW3
ICD77 D9LGK
-
JM1333KLN-2G
2GB
2GB
SS Transcend
SS Micron
-
•
•
TS256MLK64V3N
( 585541 )
9
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
TS256MLK64V3N
(566577)
2GB
2GB
4GB
SS Hynix
H5TQ2G83BFR
D9LGK
9
9
9
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
TS256MLK64V3N
(574206)
SS Micron
DS Transcend
JM1333KLN-4G
( 583782 )
TK483PCW3
Transcend
Transcend
JM1333KLN-4G
4GB
4GB
DS Transcend
DS Micron
TK483PCW3
IED27 D9LGK
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
TS512MLK64V3N
( 585538 )
9
Transcend
TS512MLK64V3N
(574831)
4GB
DS Micron
D9LGK
9
-
•
•
•
•
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 SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)
DS Micron
DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
DS Micron D9KPT(ECC)
DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)
D9KPT
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
DS Hynix
DS Hynix
H5TQ2G83AFR
H5TQ2G83AFR(ECC)
DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)
DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C(ECC)
ATP
BUFFALO
BUFFALO
BUFFALO
SS Elpida
DS Elpida
DS NANYA
J1108BFBG-DJ-F
J1108BFBG-DJ-F
NT5CB256M8BN-CG
-
D3U1333-2G
D3U1333-4G
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13
4GB
DS
-
9
(2x2GB)
Elixir
M2F2G64CB88B7N-CG
M2F2G64CB88D7N-CG
M2F4G64CB8HD5N-CG
GR1333D364L9/2G
2GB
2GB
4GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
SS Elixir
N2CB2G808N-CG
M2CB2G8BDN-CG
M2CB2G8BDN-CG
IDSH1G-03A1F1C-13H
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Elixir
SS Elixir
-
-
Elixir
DS Elixir
-
-
GoodRam
DS Qimonda
-
-
KINGTIGER F10DA2T1680
KINGTIGER KTG2G1333PG3
DS KINGTIGER KTG1333PS1208NST-C9
-
-
DS
-
-
-
-
Patriot
Patriot
PSD32G13332
DS Prtriot
PM128M8D3BU-15
-
9
-
PGS34G1333LLKA
4GB
(2x2GB)
DS
DS
-
-
7-7-7-20
1.7
Patriot
PG38G1333EL(XMP)
C304627CB1AG22Fe
E304459CB1AG32Cf
SMD4G68H1P-13HZ
SP001GBLTE133S01
8GB
2GB
4GB
4GB
1GB
-
-
1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
RiDATA
RiDATA
SanMax
DS RiDATA
DS RiDATA
DS Hynix
C304627CB1AG22Fe
E304459CB1AG32Cf
H5TQ2G83BFRH9C
NT5CB128M8AN-CG
9
9
-
-
-
1.5
-
Silicon
Power
SS NANYA
-
Silicon
Power
SP001GBLTU133S02
SP002GBLTE133S01
1GB
2GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
SS S-POWER
DS NANYA
SS Team
10YT3E5
9
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Silicon
Power
NT5CB128M8AN-CG
T3D1288LT-13
T3D1288LT-13
T3D1288LT-13
-
-
Team
Team
Team
TXD31024M1333C7
(XMP)
7-7-7-21
7-7-7-21
7-7-7-21
1.75
1.75
1.5-1.6
TXD31048M1333C7-D
(XMP)
SS Team
TXD32048M1333C7-D
(XMP)
DS Team
•
2-8
Chapter 2: Hardware information
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1600 MHz capability
DIMM socket support
(Optional)
SS/ Chip
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
DS
Brand
2
4
1 DIMM
DIMM DIMM
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
AM2U16BC2P1
2GB
4GB
4GB
SS
DS
DS
A-DATA
A-DATA
-
3CCD-1509A
3CCD-1509A
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AM2U16BC4P2
•
•
AX3U1600GC4G9(XMP)
1.55~
1.75
A-DATA
AX3U1600PC4G8(XMP)
4GB
DS
-
-
8-8-8-24 1.55~
1.75
•
•
•
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
Crucial
HX3X12G1600C9(XMP)
12GB (6x2GB) DS
16GB (4x4GB) DS
4GB (2x2GB) DS
6GB (3x2GB) DS
6GB (3x2GB) DS
6GB (3x2GB) DS
8GB (2x4GB) DS
8GB (2x4GB) DS
2GB (2x1GB) SS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.5
6-6-6-18 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
7-8-7-20 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
8-8-8-24 1.65
7-8-7-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.5
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
•
|