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
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CMZ16GX3M4A1600C9(XMP)
CMG4GX3M2A1600C6
CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP)
CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP)
CMX6GX3M3C1600C7(XMP)
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C8(XMP)
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP)
BL12864BN1608.8FF(XMP)
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-12800CL7Q-16GBXH(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS
F3-12800CL9Q-16GBXL(XMP)
F3-12800CL7D-8GBRH(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL(XMP)
16GB (4x4GB) DS
8GB (2x4GB) DS
8GB (2x4GB) DS
•
•
•
•
F3-12800CL9D-8GBSR2(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS
F3-12800CL8D-8GBECO(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS
GET316GB1600C9QC(XMP)
16GB (4x4GB) DS
12GB (3x4GB) DS
12GB (3x4GB) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP)
9
9
1.65
1.65
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/12GX
(XMP)
•
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K6/24GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3LK2/4GX(XMP)
12GB(3x4GB) DS
24GB (6x4GB) DS
4GB (2x2GB) DS
4GB (2x2GB) DS
4GB (2x2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
9
8
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X2K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS
9
9
9
-
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP)
6GB (3x2GB) DS
6GB (3x2GB) DS
6GB (3x2GB) DS
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/6GX
(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/6GX
(XMP)
6GB (3x2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
9
1.65
•
•
•
OCZ
OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK
JM1600KLN-8GK
4GB(2x2GB)
8GB (2x4GB) DS
2GB DS
DS
8-8-8
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Transcend
Asint
Transcend TK483PCW3
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SLZ3128M8-EGJ1D(XMP)
Asint
3128M8-GJ1D
-
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP)
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP)
4GB (2x2GB) DS
4GB (2 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
9
9
-
GoodRam
GR1600D364L9/2G
2GB
2GB
DS
DS
GoodRam GF1008KC-JN
KINGTIGER KTG2G1600PG3(XMP)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Mushkin
Patriot
Patriot
Patriot
Patriot
Patriot
SanMax
996805(XMP)
4GB (2x2GB) DS
12GB (3x4GB) DS
4GB (2x2GB) DS
4GB (2x2GB) DS
8GB (2x4GB) DS
8GB (2x4GB) DS
-
6-8-6-24 1.65
8-9-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.7
7-7-7-20 1.7
8-9-8-24 1.65
8-9-8-24 1.65
PX7312G1600LLK(XMP)
PGS34G1600LLKA2
PGS34G1600LLKA
PVV38G1600LLK(XMP)
PX538G1600LLK(XMP)
SMD-4G68HP-16KZ
-
-
•
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
4GB
DS
Hynix
H5TQ2G
-
1.5
83BFRPBC
Team
Team
TXD31024M1600C8-D(XMP)
TXD32048M1600HC8-D(XMP)
1GB
2GB
SS
DS
Team
Team
T3D1288RT-16 8-8-8-24 1.65
T3D1288RT-16 8-8-8-24 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
2-9
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1800 MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Chip
NO.
Vendors Part No.
G.SKILL F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP)
Size
Timing
Voltage
4GB (2x2GB)
DS
-
9-9-9-24
1.60
•
•
•
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1866 MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Chip
NO.
Vendors Part No.
Size
Timing
Voltage
A-DATA
A-DATA
AX3U1866GC2G9B(XMP)
AX3U1866GC4G9B(XMP)
2GB
4GB
SS
DS
-
-
9-11-9-27
9-11-9-27
9-10-9-27
9-10-9-27
9-10-9-28
9-10-9-28
9-9-9-24
1.55-1.75
1.55-1.75
1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR CMT3GX3M4X1866C9(XMP)
CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP)
32GB (4x8GB) DS
8GB (2x4GB) DS
1.5
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
Patriot
F3-14900CL9Q-16GBXL(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS
1.5
F3-14900CL9D-8GBSR(XMP)
8GB (2x4GB)
DS
DS
SS
DS
1.5
F3-14900CL9Q-8GBFLD(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB)
1.6
PXD32G1866ELK(XMP)
4GB (2x2GB)
4GB (2x2GB)
9-9-9-24
1.65
Patriot
F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP)
-
9-11-9-27
1.65
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2000 MHz capability
DIMM socket support
(Optional)
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM
A-DATA
AX3U2000GC4G9B(XMP)
4GB
DS
-
-
9-11-9-27 1.55~
1.75
•
•
Apacer
78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP)
6GB (3x2GB)
6GB (3x2GB)
4GB (2x2GB)
4GB (2x2GB)
4GB (2x2GB)
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-27
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
CMT6GX3M3A2000C8(XMP)
F3-16000CL9D-4GBRH(XMP)
F3-16000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP)
GUP34GB2000C9DC(XMP)
DS
8-9-8-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-28 1.65
DS
DS
DS
KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB)
DS
9
-
1.65
1.6
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Transcend
AEXEA
Patriot
TX2000KLN-8GK (388375)(XMP) 4GB
DS
DS
AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V(XMP)
PX7312G2000ELK(XMP)
PV736G2000ELK(XMP)
4GB (2x2GB)
-
1.65
12GB (3x4GB) DS
9-11-9-27 1.65
7-7-7-20 1.65
Patriot
6GB (3x2GB)
2GB
DS
DS
Silicon
Power
SP002GBLYU200S02(XMP)
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
Team
Team
TXD32048M2000C9(XMP)
TXD32048M2000C9-L(XMP)
2GB
2GB
DS Team T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24 1.5
DS Team T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24 1.6
•
•
•
•
2-10
Chapter 2: Hardware information
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2133 MHz capability
DIMM socket support
(Optional)
SS/ Chip Chip
DS Brand NO.
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Timing
Voltage
1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM
A-DATA
A-DATA
Apacer
AX3U2133C2G9B(XMP)
AX3U2133GC2G9B(XMP)
78.BAGE4.AFD0C(XMP)
CMT4GX3M2A2133C9(XMP)
2GB
SS
SS
DS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2GB
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
1.55-1.75
-
8GB ( 2x 4GB )
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
G.SKILL
G.Skill
9-10-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.5
CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(Ver7.1)(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB )
CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(XMP)
F3-17000CL9Q-16GBXLD(XMP)
F3-17000CL9Q-16GBZH(XMP)
F3-17066CL9Q-16GBTDD(XMP)
F3-17066CL9D-8GBPID(XMP)
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
9-10-9-27 1.5
9-11-9-28 1.65
9-11-10-28 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS
16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS
16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
9-9-9-24
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
8GB ( 2x 4GB )
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
8GB ( 4x 2GB )
2GB
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
9-9-9-24
•
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3W1K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1FK4/8GX(XMP)
-
9
•
•
•
•
•
9
9
9-9-9-24
9
OCZ
OCZ3XTEP2133C9LV4GK
PVV34G2133C9K(XMP)
7-7-7-20
Patriot
4GB ( 2x 2GB )
9-11-9-27 1.66
•
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2200 MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Chip
NO.
Vendors Part No.
Size
Timing
Voltage
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4G (2x2GB)
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
7-10-10-28 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP)
GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP)
4GB (2x2GB)
8GB (2x4GB)
9-10-9-28
9-11-9-28
-
1.65
1.65
-
•
•
GEIL
KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KJAA-FEIS(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB)
DS Kingmax N/A
SABERTOOTH Z77 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2400 MHz capability
DIMM socket support
SS/ Chip Chip
(Optional)
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Timing
Voltage
DS
Brand NO.
1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM
CORSAIR CMGTX8(XMP)
CORSAIR CMGTX8(XMP)
8GB (4x2GB)
8GB (4x2GB)
4G (2x2GB)
SS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
10-12-10-30
10-12-10-30
9-11-9-28
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
G.SKILL
F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP)
Transcend TX2400KLU-4GK (381850)(XMP) 2GB
•
2-11
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.2.4
Expansion slots
Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do
so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
Slot No. Slot Description
1
PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot
2
3
4
5
6
PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)
PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot
PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slot
PCIe 2.0 x1_3 slot
PCIe 2.0 x16_3 slot (max. at x4 mode)
PCI Express operating mode
VGA configuration
PCIe x16_1
PCIe x16_2
PCIe x16_3
x16
Single VGA/PCIe card (Recommend for
N/A
N/A
single VGA)
Dual VGA/PCIe card
x8
x8
N/A
2-12
Chapter 2: Hardware information
•
•
•
In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (beige) for a PCI Express x16
graphics card to get better performance.
In CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 and PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slots for
PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance.
We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™
mode. Refer to page 2-24 for details.
•
Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2 when using
multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. See page 2-22 for details.
PCIe x16_3 configuration
PCIE x16_3
PCI Express sharing mode
Configuration
PCIE x16_3
PCIE x1_1
PCIE x1_2
PCIE x1_3
x1 mode
x1
x4
x1
x1
x1
x4 mode*
N/A
N/A
N/A
Refer to 3.5.6 Onboard Devices Configuration for details.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A
B
C
D
E
F
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
G
H
PCIEX16_1
PCIEX16_2
PCIEX16_3
PCIEX1_1
PCIEX1_2
PCIEX1_3
Intel SATA
USB 2.0 #0
USB 2.0 #1
USB 3.0
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
HD Audio
–
–
–
–
shared
Intel LAN
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
ASM USB 3.0
ASM1061 #0
ASM1061 #1
shared
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
2-13
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.2.5
Jumper
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the
CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM
data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system
setup information such as system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM
1.
2.
Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3
for about 5–10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3.
4.
Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to
re-enter data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
•
•
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper again
to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the battery.
You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For
system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature.
Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter
settings to default values.
•
Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R. function. You
must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before
rebooting the system.
2-14
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.6
Onboard switch
The onboard switch allows 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.
MemOK! switch
Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure,
and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously. Press and hold the
MemOK! switch until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility
tuning for successful boot.
•
•
Refer to section 2.2.7 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.
The DRAM_LED also lights when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the
system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.
•
•
The MemOK! switch does not function under Windows™ OS environment.
During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It
takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test
fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed
of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.
•
Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each
timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning
process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones
recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on
the ASUS website at www.asus.com.
•
•
•
If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system
continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn
off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.
If your system fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch to boot
and load BIOS default settings. A messgae will appear during POST reminding you
that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.
We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the
ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.
2-15
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.2.7
Onboard LEDs
1.
Standby Power LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED lights up to
indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder
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 LED.
2.
POST State LEDs
The POST State LEDs of CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD indicate key components
status during POST (Power-on Self Test). If an error is found , the LED next to the
error device will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design
provides an intuitional way to locate the root problem within a second.
2-16
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.8
Internal connectors
1.
Intel® Z77 Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [brown])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6Gb/s
signal cables.
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10
configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z77
chipset.
•
These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.3 SATA Configuration for details.
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID configurations or the manual
bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
•
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode].
Refer to section 3.5.3 SATA Configuration for details.
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions.
2-17
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.
Intel® Z77 Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [black])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc drives
via Serial ATA 3Gb/s signal cables.
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10
configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z77
chipset.
•
These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.3 SATA Configuration for details.
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID configurations or the manual
bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
•
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode].
Refer to section 3.5.3 SATA Configuration for details.
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions.
2-18
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3.
ASMedia® Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [gray])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6Gb/s
signal cables.
SABERTOOTH Z77 ASMedia SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
•
•
The SATA6G_E1/E2 (gray) connectors do not support ATAPI devices.
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ATA
hard disk drives.
•
•
For regular usage, the SATA6G_E1/E2 connectors are recommended for data drives.
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the ASMedia Storage Controller item in the BIOS
to [Enabled]. Refer to section 3.5.5 Onboard Devices Configuration for details.
2-19
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
5.
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)
This connector is for the additional USB 3.0 ports, and complies with the USB 3.0
specificaton that supports up to 4.8 Gbps connection speed. If the USB 3.0 front panel
cable is available from your system chassis, with this USB 3.0 connector, you can have
a front panel USB 3.0 solution.
USB3_34
ID
IntA_P1_D+
IntA_P1_D-
GND
IntA_P1_SSTX+
IntA_P1_SSTX-
GND
IntA_P2_D+
IntA_P2_D-
GND
IntA_P2_SSTX+
IntA_P2_SSTX-
GND
IntA_P2_SSRX+
IntA_P2_SSRX-
Vbus
®
IntA_P1_SSRX+
IntA_P1_SSRX-
Vbus
PIN
1
SABERTOOTH Z77 USB3.0 connector
The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately.
2-20
Chapter 2: Hardware information
6.
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB56, USB910)
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of
these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system
chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to
480 Mbps connection speed.
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard!
•
You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue)
first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your
chassis supports front panel USB ports.
•
•
Remove the USB dust cover before installation.
The USB 2.0 connector module is purchased separately.
7.
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s).
Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a
slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.
2-21
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
8.
CPU, chassis, and assistant fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-4; 3-pin ASST_FAN)
Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the
black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the
system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place
jumper caps on the fan connectors!
•
•
The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.
If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis fan cable
to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2 for better thermal
environment.
2-22
Chapter 2: Hardware information
9.
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports
either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel
audio I/O module cable to this connector.
•
•
We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this
connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector, set
the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]; if you want to connect an AC'97
front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this
connector is set to [HD].
2-23
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
10. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are
designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and
push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
•
For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit
(PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a
minimum power of 350W.
•
•
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system
will not boot.
Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when configuring a system
with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not
boot up if the power is inadequate.
•
•
If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with
1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.
2-24
Chapter 2: Hardware information
11. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.
•
•
System power LED (2-pin PLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED
cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system
power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable
to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to
the HDD.
•
•
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the
system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS settings.
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the
system OFF.
•
Reset button (2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without
turning off the system power.
2-25
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.3
Building your computer system
2.3.1
Additional tools and components to build a PC system
1 bag of screws
Philips (cross) screwdriver
PC chassis
Power supply unit
Intel LGA 1155 CPU
Intel LGA 1155 compatible CPU Fan
DIMM
SATA hard disk drive
SATA optical disc drive (optional)
Graphics card (optional)
The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.
2-26
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.2
CPU installation
Please note the order in opening/ closing the double latch. Follow the instructions printed
on the metal sealing hatch or the illustrations shown below in this manual. The plastic cap
will pop up automatically once the CPU is in place and the hatch properly sealed down.
1
A
B
2
3
2-27
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
C
4
A
B
5
2-28
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
2-32
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.6
Thermal Armor for ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
The Thermal Armor for ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77 consists of a rear I/O cover fan, and
a cover fan assembly, providing effective dissipation of the heat generated from the
motherboard components. To ensure the most optimum heat dissipation, follow the
instruction below to install the I/O cover fan to the rear I/O cover.
Installing the first accessory fan:
1.
Remove the screw on the rear I/O
cover, and then remove the lid to
show the fan socket.
2.
Secure the accessory fan to the
designated fan slot of the I/O fan
cover lid using the two bundled short
screws. The fan cable must be on
the bottom right corner opposite to
the installed I/O cover fan lid, and the
back of the fan faces the screw hole
of the I/O fan cover lid.
• Use the bundled 40mm I/O
cover fan lid if you want to install
a 40mm fan.
• The arrow markings pointing
in one direction determine the
fan’s back part and the direction
of the airflow.
3.
Remove the release paper, and stick
the adhesive sponge on the opposite
side of the installed I/O fan cover.
•
The sponge acts as a filler
between the PC board and the
fan.
•
The sponge is not needed
if you choose to install the
40mm fan.
2-33
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
4.
Install the assembled fan and sponge
to the rear I/O fan socket, and screw
the I/O fan cover lid to close.
The TUF logo must be visible along
with the I/O ports.
5.
Place the fan cable inside the cable
slot, and connect the fan cable to the
assistant fan (ASST_FAN1) connector
on the motherboard
Keep the fan cable hidden under
the thermal armor to prevent clutter.
Installing the second accessory fan:
1.
Remove the fan cover lid to show the
fan socket and the fan connector.
2-34
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.
Place the fan into the socket, ensuring
that the TUF logo is facing up, and
screw to lock in place using the four
bundled long screws.
Keep the fan cable hidden under
the thermal armor to prevent
clutter.
3.
Connect the fan cable to the
assistant fan (ASST_FAN2) connector
on the motherboard.
The screwdriver is not included in
the package.
2-35
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.3.10
Rear panel connection
2
8
9
10
Rear panel connectors
1. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4
2. USB 3.0 ports 5 and 6
3. Optical S/PDIF Out port
4. LAN (RJ-45) port*
6. External SATA 6G
DisplayPort
7
8. HDMI port
9. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2***
10. Audio I/O ports**
5. USB BIOS Flashback button
* and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LED and audio port definitions.
*** USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 only support Windows 7 or later versions. The bottom port of USB3_12
supports USB Charger+ and USB BIOS Flashback.
2-39
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
•
•
DO NOT insert a different connector to the external SATA port.
DO NOT connect a keyboard/mouse to any USB 3.0 port when installing Windows®
operating system.
•
Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under
Windows® OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation.
•
•
USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only.
We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster
and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.
•
If you want to use the hot-plug function of the external SATA ports, you have to set the
ASM1061 Storage Controller item in the BIOS setting to [AHCI Mode] and install the
Asmedia SATA Controller Driver from the motherboard support DVD. Refer to section
3.5.5 Onboard Devices Configuration for details.
* LAN ports LED indications
SPEED
LED
ACT/LINK
LED
Activity Link LED
Speed LED
Status
Description
Status
OFF
Description
OFF
No link
10 Mbps connection
100 Mbps connection
1 Gbps connection
ORANGE
BLINKING
Linked
ORANGE
GREEN
Data activity
LAN port
** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration
Port
Headset
4-channel
6-channel
8-channel
2-channel
Light Blue Line In
Line In
Line In
Line In
Lime
Line Out
Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Front Speaker Out
Mic In
Pink
Mic In
Mic In
Mic In
Orange
Black
Gray
–
–
–
–
Center/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Out
–
Center/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Out
Side Speaker Out
Rear Speaker Out
–
2-40
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers
2-42
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.12
USB BIOS Flashback
USB BIOS Flashback allows you to update the BIOS without entering the BIOS or operating
system. Just connect the USB storage device containing the BIOS file to the USB port, press
the BIOS Flashback button, and the BIOS is updated automatically.
1. Download the USB BIOS Flashback from theASUS website at www.asus.com and
save it to the root directory of your USB flash drive.
2. Connect the USB flash drive to the bottom USB 3.0 port at the rear panel.
3. Press the USB Flashback button for three seconds until the LED flashes. The LED
goes out when the BIOS update is completed.
1. Do not disconnect the USB flash drive or power system, or press the CLR_CMOS
button during the BIOS updating process. Doing so will interrupt the BIOS updating
process. In case of interruption, follow the steps again to update the BIOS.
2. If LED flashes for five seconds and turns into a stable light, this indicates that USB
BIOS Flashback is not working properly due to improper USB flash drive connection,
BIOS file name error, or incompatible BIOS file format. If this happens, restart the
system.
3. BIOS updating poses some risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the updating
process and the system fails to reboot, please contact your local ASUS Service Center
for assistance.
2-43
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.4
Starting up for the first time
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
Be sure that all switches are off.
Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis.
Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector.
Turn on the devices in the following order:
a. Monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power
6.
After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up.
For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the
ATX power button. If your monitor complies with the “green” standards or if it has a
“power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up or change from orange to green
after the system LED turns on.
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are running, the
BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table below) or additional messages appear
on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned
on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings
and connections or call your retailer for assistance.
BIOS Beep
Description
One short beep
VGA detected
Quick boot set to disabled
No keyboard detected
No memory detected
One continuous beep followed by two
short beeps then a pause (repeated)
One continuous beep followed by three
short beeps
No VGA detected
One continuous beep followed by four
short beeps
Hardware component failure
7.
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 3.
2.5
Turning off the computer
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system
on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch
for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS
setting.
2-44
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 3
Chapter 3:
BIOS setup
3.1
Knowing BIOS
The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is an Unified Extensible Firmware Interface that complies with
UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-
only BIOS controls to enable more flexible and convenient mouse input. Users can easily
navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system. The
term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specified.
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage
device configuration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device
configuration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In normal
circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure optimum
performance. We recommend that you not change the default BIOS settings except in
the following circumstances:
•
•
An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you to
run the BIOS Setup.
You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or
update.
Inappropriate settings of the BIOS may result to instability or failure to boot. We strongly
recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service
personnel.
3.2
BIOS setup program
A BIOS setup program is provided for BIOS item modification. When you start up the
computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del>
during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility. Otherwise, POST continues
with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, press <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or press the reset
button on the system chassis to restart the system. You can also turn the system off and then
turn it back on to restart the system. Do this last option only if the first two failed.
•
•
•
The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and
may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the
mouse to control the BIOS setup program.
If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized
Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu for details.
•
If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and
reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 2.2.5 Jumper for information
on how to erase the RTC RAM.
•
The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.
The BIOS setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various submenus and select from the
available options using a keyboard or a USB mouse.
The BIOS setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.
You can change modes from the Exit menu or from the Exit/Advanced Mode button in the
EZ Mode/Advanced Mode screen.
3-1
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.2.1
EZ Mode
By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ
Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select
the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access the
Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode.
The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the
Setup Mode item in section 3.7 Boot memu for details.
Selects the display language of
the BIOS setup program
Clicks to display all fan
speeds if available
Displays the CPU/motherboard
temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage
output, CPU/CPU_OPT/Chassis fan
speed
Exits the BIOS setup program without saving
the changes, saves the changes and resets
the system, or enters the Advanced Mode
Exit/Advanced Mode
UEFI BIOS Utility - EZ Mode
SABERTOOTH Z77
BIOS Version : 0401
English
Build Date : 11/28/2011
CPU Type : Intel (R) Core (TM) i3-2130 CPU @ 3.00GHz
Total Memory : 1024 MB (DDR3 1333MHz)
Speed : 3400 MHz
Tuesday [12/20/2011]
Temperature
Voltage
CPU
Fan Speed
CPU
MB
+113.0ºF/+45.0ºC
+75.2ºF/+40.0ºC
1.248V
3.344V
5V
5.160V
CPU_FAN
3325RPM CPU_OPT_FAN
N/A CHA_FAN2
N/A
N/A
3.3V
12V
12.248V
CHA_FAN1
System Performance
Quiet
Performance
Boot Priority
Energy Saving
Normal
Use the mouse to drag or keyboard to navigate to decide the boot priority.
Shortcut (F3)
Advanced Mode (F7)
Boot Menu(F8)
Default(F5)
Quick switch to
frequently used menus.
Power Saving mode
Normal mode
Loads optimized default
ASUS Optimal mode
Quick switch to Advanced mode
menus.
Selects the boot device priority
Displays the system properties of the
selected mode on the right hand side
Selects the boot device priority
•
•
The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.
The Boot Menu(F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the
system.
3-2
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.2.2
Advanced Mode
The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure
the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the
following sections for the detailed configurations.
To access the EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode.
Back button
Menu items
Menu bar
Configuration fields
General help
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ Onboard Devices Configuration
>
Enabled/Disabled ASM1061 Storage
OPROM
HD Audio Controller
Enabled
HD
Front Panel Type
SPDIF Out Type
SPDIF
PCI Express X16_3 slot (black) bandwidth)
ASM1061 Storage Controller (Rear)
X1 mode
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Disabled
ASM1061 Storage OPROM
ASM101 Storage OPROM
Disabled
Enabled
ASM1061 Storage Controller (Fr
ASM1061 Storage OPROM
ASmedia USB 3.0 Controller (USB3_E12)
ASmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support
Intel LAN Controller
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Intel PXE OPROM
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll bar
Navigation keys
Submenu item
Pop-up window
Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main
For changing the basic system configuration
For changing the overclocking settings
For changing the advanced system settings
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the
fan settings.
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Exit
For changing the system boot configuration
For configuring options for special functions
For selecting the exit options and loading default settings
3-3
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example,
selecting Main shows the Main menu items.
The other items (Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have
their respective menu items.
Back button
This button appears when entering a submenu. Press <Esc> or use the USB mouse to click
this button to return to the previous menu screen.
Submenu items
A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a
submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.
Pop-up window
Select a menu item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the configuration
options for that item.
Scroll bar
A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not fit on
the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the
other items on the screen.
Navigation keys
At the bottom right corner of the menu screen are the navigation keys for the BIOS setup
program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. Use
<F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removable storage device.
General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.
Configuration fields
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-configurable, you can
change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not
user-configurable.
A configurable field is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it and
press <Enter> to display a list of options.
3-4
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.3
Main menu
The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup
program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and
allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
BIOS Information
BIOS Version
Build Date
Choose the system default language
0401 x64
01/12/2012
MBEC-Z77-0124
8.0.0.1351
EC Version
ME Version
South Bridge Stepping
C1
CPU Information
Intel(R) Core(TM) CPU 0 @ 3.00GHz
Speed
3000 MHz
Memory Information
Total Memory
2048 MB (DDR3)
Memory Frequency
1333 MHz
System Language
English
System Date
System Time
Access Level
[Wed 11/08/2011]
[17:46:15]
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Administrator
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
>
Security
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Exit
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Main\ Security
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
>
Password Description
To clear the administrator password,
key in the current password in the
Enter Current Password box,
and then press <Enter> when
prompted to create/confirm the
password.
If ONLY the Administrator's password is set,
then this only limits access to Setup and is
only asked for when entering Setup
If ONLY the User's password is set, then this
is a power on password and must be entered to
boot or enter Setup. In Setup the User will
have Administrator rights
Administrator Password
User Password
Not Installed
Not Installed
Administrator Password
User Password
•
•
If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)
RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 2.2.5 Jumper for information on how to
erase the RTC RAM.
The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default
Not Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed.
3-5
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Administrator Password
If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator
password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to see or change only
selected fields in the BIOS setup program.
To set an administrator password:
1.
2.
3.
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To change an administrator password:
1.
2.
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press
<Enter>.
3.
From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.
4.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator
password, but press <Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear
the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
User Password
If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.
The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set
a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a user password:
1.
2.
3.
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To change a user password:
1.
2.
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press
<Enter>.
3.
From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.
4.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press
<Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear the password, the
User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
3-6
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.4
Ai Tweaker menu
The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items.
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field
values can cause the system to malfunction.
The configuration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you
installed on the motherboard.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Target CPU Speed : 3700MHz
Target DRAM Speed : 1333MHz
Ai Overclock Tuner
[X.M.P.] When XMP is enabled BLCK
frequency, CPU ratio and memory
parameters will be auto optimized.
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Turbo Ratio
Internal PLL Overvoltage
CPU Bus speed : DRAM speed ratio mode
Memory Frequency
EPU Power Saving Mode
>
>
>
>
OC Tuner
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
DRAM Timing Control
CPU Power Management
DIGI+ Power Control
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
CPU Voltage
0.916V
Offset Mode
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
Offset Mode Sign
+
CPU Offset Voltage
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
DRAM Voltage
1.501V
0.925V
1.816V
1.059V
VCCSA Voltage
CPU PLL Voltage
PCH Voltage
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB
CPU Spread Spectrum
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Auto
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
3-7
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]
Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal
frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options:
[Auto]
Loads the optimal settings for the system.
[Manual]
[X.M.P.]
Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.
If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Profile
(X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the profiles supported by your
memory modules for optimizing the system performance.
The following two items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [Manual].
BCLK/PCIE Frequency [XXX]
Allows you to adjust the CPU and VGA frequency to enhance the system performance. Use
the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value using the
numeric keypad. The values range from 80.0MHz to 300.0MHz.
eXtreme Memory Profile
This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner item to [X.M.P.] and
allows you to select the X.M.P. mode supported by your memory module.
Configuration options: [Profile #1] [ Profile #2]
Turbo Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU ratio automatically or manually.
[Auto]
[Manual]
Sets all Turbo Ratio to Intel® CPU default settings automatically.
Sets the Turbo Ratio for every core-activation condition of a full unlocked
CPU manually.
When the Turbo Ratio is set to [Manual], the following item appears:
Ratio Synchronizing Control [Enabled]
[Enabled] Allows you to set an individual Turbo Ratio for every core-activation condition
[Disabled] Allows you to set one single Turbo Ratio for all core-activation conditions.
1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]
Allows you to set the 1-Core Ratio Limit
[Auto]
Select to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting
[Manual]
Select to to manually assign a 1-Core Ration Limit value that is higher
than or equal to the 2-Core Ratio Limit.
2-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]
Allows you to set the 2-Core Ratio Limit
[Auto]
Select to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting
[Manual]
Select to to manually assign a 2-Core Ratio Limit value that is higher than
or equal to the 3-Core Ratio Limit. 1-Core Limit must not be set to [Auto]
3-8
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]
Allows you to set the 3-Core Ratio Limit
[Auto]
Select to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting
[Manual]
Select to to manually assign a 3-Core Ratio Limit value that is higher than
or equal to the 4-Core Ratio Limit. 1-Core/2-Core Ratio Limit must not be
set to [Auto]
4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]
Allows you to set the 4 Core Ratio Limit
[Auto]
Select to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting
[Manual]
Select to to manually assign a 4-Core Ratio Limit value that is higher than
or equal to the 3-Core Ratio Limit. 1-Core/2-Core/3-Core Limit must not
be set to [Auto]
Internal PLL Overvoltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the internal PLL voltage.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]
Memory Frequency [Auto]
Allows you to set the memory operating frequency. The configuration options vary with the
BCLK/PCIE Frequency item settings.
CPU bus speed : DRAM speed ratio mode [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio mode.
[Auto]
DRAM speed is set to the optimized settings.
[100:133] The CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio is set to 100:133.
[100:100} The CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio is set to 100:100.
EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
EPU Setting [Auto]
This item appears only when you set the EPU Power Saving MODE item to [Enabled.] and
allows you to select the EPU power saving mode.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Light Power Saving Mode] [Medium Power Saving Mode] [Max
Power Saving Mode]
OC Tuner
OC Tuner automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of CPU and DRAM for
enhancing the system performance. Configuration options: [OK] [Cancel]
3-9
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
DRAM Timing Control
The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+>
and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard
and press the <Enter> key.
Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default settings.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
>
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Ai Tweaker\ DRAM Timing Control
Primary Timings
DRAM CAS# Latency
DRAM CAS# Latency
CHA:
CHA:
9
9
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay
DRAM RAS# PRE Time
DRAM RAS# ACT Time
DRAM COMMAND Mode
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
9
24
1
Secondary Timings
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
4
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
DRAM REF Cycle Time
74
5200
10
5
DRAM Refresh Interval
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
DRAM WRITE Recovery Time
DRAM READ to PRE Time
DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay
DRAM CKE Minimum pulse width
DRAM CAS# Write Latency
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
20
5
4
7
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
DRAM RTL (CHA)
DRAM RTL (CHB)
DRAM IO-L (CHA)
DRAM IO-L (CHB)
CHA DO: 32, CHA D1: 35
Auto
Auto
CHA DO: 0, CHA D1:
2
2
Auto
Auto
Third Timings
tWRDR (DD)
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
CHA:
1
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
tRWDR (DD)
tRWSR
3
3
3
1
4
3
3
4
tRR (DD)
tRR (DR)
tRRSR
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
tWW (DD)
tWW (DR)
tWWSR
MISC
MRC fast Boot
Enabled
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
3-10
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Scroll down to display the following items:
DRAM CLK Period
Auto
Transmitter Slew(CHA)
Transmitter Slew(CHB)
Receiver Slew(CHA)
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Receiver Slew(CHB)
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
MCH Duty Sense (CHA)
MCH Duty Sense (CHB)
Channel A DIMM Control
Channel B DIMM Control
DRAM Read Additional Swizzle
DRAM Write Additional Swizzle
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Enable Both . . .
Enable Both . . .
Auto
Auto
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Primary Timings
DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [3 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [40 DRAM Clock]
DRAM COMMAND Mode [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] [2 DRAM Clock] [3 DRAM Clock]
Secondary Timings
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [48 DRAM Clock] – [511 DRAM Clock]
DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [48 DRAM Clock] – [511 DRAM Clock]
DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [5 DRAM Clock] – [31 DRAM Clock]
DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [16 DRAM Clock] – [63 DRAM Clock]
3-11
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM CKE Minimum pulse width [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM CAS# Write to Latency [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHA) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM RTL (CHB) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM IO-L (CHA) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Delay 1 Clock] – [Delay 15 Clock]
DRAM IO-L (CHB) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Delay 1 Clock] – [Delay 15 Clock]
Third Timings
tWRDR (DD) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tRWDR (DD) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
tRWSR [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
tRR (DD) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tRR (DR) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tRRSR [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
tWW (DD) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tWW (DR) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tWWSR [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
MISC
MRC Fast Boot [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the MRC fast boot.
[Enabled] Enables the MRC fast boot.
[Disable]
Disables the function.
3-12
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
DRAM CLK Period [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM CLK Period.
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14]
Transmitter Slew(CHA) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CHA Transmitter slew] – [7 CHA Transmitter slew]
Transmitter Slew(CHB) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CHB Transmitter slew] – [7 CHB Transmitter slew]
Receiver Slew(CHA) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CHA Receiver slew] – [7 CHA Receiver slew]
Receiver Slew(CHB) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CHB Receiver slew] – [7 CHB Receiver slew]
MCH Duty Sense (CHA) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CHA MCH Duty Sense] – [31 CHA MCH Duty Sense]
MCH Duty Sense (CHB) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CHB MCH Duty Sense] – [31 CHB MCH Duty Sense]
Channel A DIMM Control [Enable Both DIMMs]
Allows you to enable or disable DIMMs on Channel A slots.
[Enable Both DIMMs]
[Disable DIMM0]
Enables both Channel A DIMMs
Disables DIMM0 slot
[Disable DIMM1]
Disables DIMM1 slot
[Disable Both DIMMs]
Disables both Channel A DIMMs
Channel B DIMM Control [Enable Both DIMMs]
Allows you to enable or disable DIMMs on Channel A slots.
[Enable Both DIMMs]
[Disable DIMM0]
Enables both Channel B DIMMs
Disables DIMM0 slot
[Disable DIMM1]
Disables DIMM1 slot
[Disable Both DIMMs]
Disables both Channel B DIMMs
DRAM Read Additional Swizzle
Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]
DRAM Write Additional Swizzle
Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]
3-13
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
CPU Power Management
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Ai Tweaker\ CPU Power Management
>
Allows User can manually adjust the
maximum non-turbo CPU ratio. The
value will be limit to CPU base
or factory setting.
CPU Ratio
Auto
Enabled
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology
Turbo Mode Parameters
Long Duration Power Limit
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Long Duration Maintained
Short Duration Power Limit
Primary Plane Current Limit
Secondary Plane Current Limit
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
CPU Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to manually adjust the maximum non-turbo CPU ratio. Use <+> and <-> keys to
adjust the value. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology.
[Disabled] Disables this function.
[Enabled] The operating system dynamically adjusts the processor voltage and
core frequency which may result in decreased average consumption and
decreased average heat production.
Turbo Mode Parameters
Long Duration Power Limit [Auto]
Allows you to limit the turbo ratio’s long duration power.
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Long Duration Maintained [Auto]
Allows you to maintain the turbo ratio’s long duration power.
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Short Duration Power Limit [Auto]
Allows you to limit the turbo ratio’s long duration power.
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
3-14
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Primary Plane Current Limit [Auto]
Maximum instantaneous current allowed at any given time for CPU cores
Use <+> and <-> key to adjust the value at 0.125A increment. .
Secondary Plane Current Limit [Auto]
Maximum instantaneous current allowed at any given time for Internal Graphics cores.
Use <+> and <-> key to adjust the value at 0.125A increment.
DIGI+ Power Control
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
>
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Ai Tweaker\ DIGI+ Power Control
Load-line is defined by Intel VRM
CPU Load-line Calibration
CPU Voltage Frequency
VRM Spread Spectrum
Auto
Auto
spec and affects CPU voltage. The CPU
working voltage will decrease
proportionally to CPU loading. Higher
value could get higher voltage and
good overclocking perfomance but increase
the CPU and VRM thermal.
Disabled
T. Probe
100%
CPU Power Phase Control
CPU Power Duty Control
CPU Current Capability
(1) Regular: 0%
(2) Medium: 25%
(3) High: 50%
Auto
(4) Ultra High: 75%
(5) Extreme: 100%
CPU Power Thermal Control
CPU Power Response Control
iGPU Load-line Calibration
iGPU Current Capability
DRAM Current Capability
DRAM Voltage Frequency
DRAM Power Phase Control
DRAM Power Thermal Control
130
Auto
Auto
100%
100%
Auto
Auto
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
130
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]
Load-line is defined by Intel VRM spec and affects CPU voltage. The CPU working
voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher value gets a higher voltage
and better overclocking performance, but increases the CPU and VRM thermal. This
item allows you to adjust the voltage range from the following percentages to boost the
system performance: 0% (Regular), 25% (Medium), 50% (High), 75% (Ultra High) and
100% (Extreme).
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Medium] [High] [Ultra High] [Extreme]
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specification.
3-15
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto]
Frequency switching affects the VRM transient response, and the thermal component.
Higher frequency gets quicker transient response.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
DO NOT remove the thermal module when switching to Manual Mode. The thermal
conditions should be monitored.
VRM Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
This item appears only when you set the Frequency item to [Auto] and allows you to
enable the spread spectrum to enhance system stability.
CPU Power Phase Control [Standard]
Allows you to control the power phase based on the CPU’s demands.
Configuration options: [Standard] [Optimized] [Extreme] [Manual Adjustment]
DO NOT remove the thermal module when switching to Extreme and Manual Mode. The
thermal conditions should be monitored.
CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]
DIGI + VRM Duty control adjusts the current and thermal conditions of every
component’s phase.
Configuration options: [T. Probe] - Select to maintain the VRM thermal balance.
[Extreme] - Select to maintain the current VRM balance.
CPU Current Capability [100%]
Allows you to configure the total power range, and extends the overclocking frequency
range simultaneously.
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]
Choose a higher value when overclocking, or under a high CPU loading for extra power
support.
CPU Power Thermal Control [130]
Allows you to extend the overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking potential
and provides a wider power thermal range.
Press <+> or <-> to set a value.
DO NOT remove the thermal module. Thermal conditions must be monitored regularly.
CPU Power Response Control [Auto]
Allows you to set a precise power response rate for your CPU for an extreme
overclocking.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular: 100] [Medium: 150] [High: 200] [Ultra High: 250]
The actual performance boost varies depending on your CPU specification.
iGPU Load-line Calibration [Auto]
Allows you to set the iGPU Load-line Calibration.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [High] [Extreme]
3-16
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
iGPU Current Capability [100%]
Allows you to set the iGPU Current Capability.
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]
DO NOT remove the thermal module while changing the DIGI+ VRM related parrameters .
The thermal conditions should be monitored.
Some of the following items above are adjusted by typing the desired values using the
numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to
adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the
<Enter> key.
DRAM Current Capability [100%]
Allows you to set the DRAM Current Capability to a higher value for a wider total power
range, and extends the overclocking frequency range.
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]
DRAM Voltage Frequency [Auto]
Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
DRAM Power Phase Control [Auto]
Allows you to set the tuning profile
[Auto]
Sets the default configuration.
[Optimized]
[Extreme]
Sets the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.
Sets the full phase mode.
DRAM Power Thermal Control [110]
Allows you to set a higher temperature for a wider DRAM power thermal range, and
extends the overclocking tolerance for overclocking potential.
Press <+> or <-> to set a value.
DO NOT remove the thermal module. Thermal conditions must be monitored regularly.
CPU Voltage [Offset Mode]
[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage.
[Offset Mode]
Allows you to set the Offset voltage.
Offset Mode Sign [+]
This item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage item to [Offset Mode].
[+]
[–]
To offset the voltage by a positive value.
To offset the voltage by a negative value.
CPU Offset Voltage [Auto]
This item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage item to [Offset Mode] and
allows you to set the Offset voltage. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V with a
0.005V interval.
3-17
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
CPU Manual Voltage [Auto]
This item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage item to [Manual Mode] and
allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.990V with a
0.005V interval.
Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU voltage. Setting a high voltage
may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the system
unstable.
The following items appears only when you set the Initiate iGPU items to [Enabled].
DRAM Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 2.20V with a 0.00625V
interval.
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may damage
the CPU permanently. We recommend you install the DIMMs with the voltage requirement
below 1.65V.
VCCSA Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the VCCSA voltage. The values range from 0.80V to 1.70V with a 0.00625V
interval.
CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU and PCH PLL voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 2.20V with
a 0.00625V interval.
PCH Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the Platform Controller Hub volage. The values range from 0.80V to 1.70V
with a 0.01V interval.
•
•
The values of the CPU Manual Voltage, CPU Offset Voltage, DRAM Voltage, VCCSA
Voltage, VCCIO Voltage, and PCH Voltage items are labeled in different color,
indicating the risk levels of high voltage settings.
The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high voltage
settings.
3-18
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Black
Yellow
Pink
Red
CPU Manual
Voltage
CPU Offset
Voltage
1.225V–
1.280V
0.065V–
0.120V
1.285V–
1.335V
0.125V–
0.175V
1.340V–
1.990V
0.180V–
0.635V
0.8V–1.22V
0.005V–
0.060V
iGPU Offset
Voltage
0.005V–
0.035V
0.105V–
0.635V
0.04V–0.065V
0.07V–0.1V
1.20000V–
1.57500V
0.80000V–
1.10000V
1.20000V–
1.88750V
0.80000V–
1.10000V
1.58125V–
1.65000V
1.10625V–
1.15000V
1.89375V–
1.97500V
1.11000V–
1.15000V
1.65625V–
1.72500V
1.15625V–
1.20625V
1.98125V–
2.06875V
1.16000V–
1.20000V
1.73125V–
2.20000V
1.21250V–
1.70000V
2.07500V–
2.20000V
1.21000V–
1.70000V
DRAM Voltage
VCCSA Voltage
CPU PLL Voltage
PCH Voltage
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/B [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA Reference Voltage on Channel A/B. The values
range from 0.395x to 0.630x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM
overclocking ability.
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA/B [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM Control Reference Voltage on Channel A/B. The values
range from 0.395x to 0.630x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM
overclocking ability.
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]
[Auto]
Automatic configuration.
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.
Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
3-19
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.5
Advanced menu
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system
devices.
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values
can cause the system to malfunction.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
CPU Configuration Parameters
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
CPU Configuration
PCH Configuration
SATA Configuration
System Agent Configuration
USB Configuration
Onboard Devices Configuration
APM
Network Stack
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
3-20
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.1
CPU Configuration
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically
detects.
The items shown in this screen may be different due to the CPU you installed.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ CPU Configuration
>
CPU Configuration
Adjust Non-Turbo Ratio
Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-2130 CPU 0 @ 3.40GHz
EM64T
Supported
3400 MHz
206a7
Processor Speed
Processor Stepping
Microcode Revision
L1 Data Cache
25
32 kB x 4
32 kB x 4
256 kB x 4
3072 kB
2
L1 Code Cache
L2 Cache
L3 Cache
Processor Cores
Intel HT Technology
CPU Ratio Range
CPU Current Ratio
Supported
16-34
34
Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor
Hyper-threading
Enabled
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enabled
All
Enter: Select
Active Processor Cores
Limit CPUID Maximum
Execute Disable Bit
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Disabled
Enabled
Disabled
Intel Virtualization Technology
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
Hardware Prefetcher
Enabled
Enabled
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch
>
CPU Power Management Configuration
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.
[Enabled]
Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down.
Hyper-threading [Enabled]
The Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two
logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two
threads, or processes simultaneously.
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
Two threads per activated core are enabled.
Only one thread per activated core is enabled.
3-21
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Active Processor Cores [All]
Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.
Configuration options: [All] or by CPU specification
Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs
with extended CPUID functions.
[Disabled]
For Windows® XP OS, select this option to disable this function.
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]
[Enabled]
Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.
Forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).
[Disabled]
Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately
and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several
systems.
[Disabled]
Disables this function.
Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]
[Enabled]
Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately
and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several
systems.
[Disabled]
Disables this function.
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
Allows a hardware platform to perform adjacent cache line prefetching.
Disables this function.
CPU Power Management Configuration
This item allows you to manage and configure the CPU’s power.
CPU Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the BCLK Frequency. Use
<+> and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your
CPU model.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).
[Disabled] The CPU runs at its default speed.
[Enabled] The operating system controls the CPU speed.
CPU C1E [Auto]
[Auto]
Sets the default configuration.
[Disabled] Disables this function.
[Enabled] Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to
enable the Enhanced Halt State.
CPU C3 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-22
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
CPU C6 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
3.5.2
PCH Configuration
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ PCH Configuration
>
PCH Configuration
Enabled/Disabled the High Precision
Event Timer.
High Precision Timer
Enabled
>
>
Intel (R) Rapid Start Technology
Intel (R) Smart Connect Technology
High Precision Timer [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Intel (R) Rapid Start Technology
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel® Rapid Start Technology function.
Intel (R) Rapid Start Technology [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Entry on S3 RTC Wake [Enabled]
Allows you to enable the system’s RTC (real-time clock) wake.
Configuration options: [Disable] [Enable]
Entry After [Immediately]
Allows you to set the system’s RTC (real-time clock) wake.
Configuration options: [Immediately] [1 minute] [2 minutes] [5 minutes] [10 minutes] [15 minutes]
[30 minutes] [1 hour] [2 hours]
Active Page Threshold Support [Enabled]
This function supports the Intel® Rapid Start Technology with a small partition.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Active Memory Threshold [0]
Key in the value for the additional partition size. For RST to work, ensure that the caching
partition size is larger than the total memory size. When set to [0], the system automatically
checks if the partition size is enough for the S3 entry (waketime entry).
The following four items above appear only when you set the Intel (R) Rapid Start
Technology item to [Enabled].
3-23
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Intel (R) Smart Connect Technology [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel® Smart Connect Technology configuration.
ISCT Configuration [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3.5.3
SATA Configuration
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The SATA
Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA port.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ SATA Configuration
>
SATA Configuration
Determines how SATA controller(s)
operate.
SATA Mode Selection
S.M.A.R.T. Status Check
AHCI
Enabled
SATA 6G_1 (Gray)
Hot Plug
Empty
Disabled
Empty
Disabled
Empty
Disabled
Empty
Disabled
Empty
Disabled
Empty
SATA 6G_2 (Gray)
Hot Plug
SATA 3G_3 (Blue)
Hot Plug
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
SATA 3G_4 (Blue)
Hot Plug
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
SATA 3G_5 (Blue)
Hot Plug
SATA 3G_6 (Blue)
Scroll down to display the following items:
Hot Plug
Disabled
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
3-24
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
SATA Mode Selection [AHCI]
Allows you to set the SATA configuration.
[Disabled]
Disables the SATA function.
[IDE Mode]
Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as
Parallel ATA physical storage devices.
[AHCI Mode]
Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the
AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard
storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases
storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to
internally optimize the order of commands.
[RAID Mode]
Set to [RAID Mode] when you want to create a RAID configuration from the
SATA hard disk drives.
S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled]
S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When
read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning
messages during the POST. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Hot Plug [Disabled]
These items appear only when you set the SATA Mode item to [AHCI Mode] or [RAID Mode]
and allow you to enable/disable SATA Hot Plug Support.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
3-25
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.5.4
System Agent Configuration
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ System Agent Configuration
>
System Agent Bridge Name
Memory Remap Feature
IvyBridge
Enable or disable memory remap above
4G.
Enabled
>
>
PCH Configuration
NB PCIe Configuration
Memory Remap Feature [Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
Allow you to enable remapping the memory above 4GB.
Disables this function.
Graphics Configuration
Allows you to set the graphics configuration for primary display, iGPU memory, render
standby, and iGPU initiation functions.
Primary Display [Auto]
Allows you to select the IGFX/PEG graphics device for primary display.
Configuration options: [Auto] [IGFX] [PEG]
iGPU Memory [64M]
Allows you to select a pre-allocated graphics memory size to be used by the internal
graphics device.
Configuration options: [32M] [64M] [96M] [128M] [160M] [192M] [224M] [256M] [288M]
[320M] [352M] [384M] [416M] [448M] [480M] [512M] [1024M]
Render Standby [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the rendered standby support.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the iGPU Multi-Monitor. Set this item to [Enabled] to
activate the Lucid Virtu Universal MVP support function for empowering both integrated
and discrete graphics.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
NB PCIe Configuration
Allows you to configure the NB PCI Express settings.
PCIEX16_1 Link Speed [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
PCIEX16_2 Link Speed [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
3-26
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.5
USB Configuration
The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ USB Configuration
>
USB Configuration
Enables Legacy USB support. AUTO
option disables legacy support if no
USB devices are connected. DISABLE
option will keep USB devices
USB Devices:
1 Keyboard, 1 Mouse, 2 Hubs
available only for UEFI applications.
Legacy USB Support
Legacy USB3.0 Support
Intel xHCI Mode
Enabled
Enabled
Smart Auto
Disabled
EHCI Hand-off
The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the
item shows None.
Legacy USB Support [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
[Auto]
The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.
Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).
Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If
detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is
detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.
Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the function.
[Enabled]
Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating systems
(OS).
Intel xHCI Mode [Smart Auto]
[Smart Auto]
[Auto]
Keeps the last operation of xHCI controller in OS during boot up.
Enables the auto default.
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
Enables the operation of xHCI controller.
Disables the function.
EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the function.
Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off
feature.
3-27
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.5.6
Onboard Devices Configuration
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ Onboard Devices Configuration
>
Enabled/Disabled ASM1061 Storage
OPROM
HD Audio Controller
Enabled
Front Panel Type
HD
SPDIF Out Type
SPDIF
PCI Express X16_3 slot (black) bandwidth)
ASM1061 Storage Controller (Rear)
ASM101 Storage OPROM
ASM1061 Storage Controller (Front)
ASM1061 Storage OPROM
ASmedia USB 3.0 Controller (USB3_E12)
ASmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support
Intel LAN Controller
X1 mode
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Disabled
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Intel PXE OPROM
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
HD Audio Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the controller.
Enables the High DUEFInition Audio Controller.
The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller item to
[Enabled].
Front Panel Type [HD]
Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or
high-dUEFInition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio
module supports.
[HD]
Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high dUEFInition audio.
[AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97
SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF]
[SPDIF] Sets to [SPDIF] for SPDIF audio output.
[HDMI] Sets to [HDMI] for HDMI audio output.
3-28
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
PCI Express X16_3 slot (black) [X1 mode]
Allows you to set the modes of the PCIe slots.
[X1 mode]
[X4 mode]
PCIe x16_3 slot runs at X1 mode with all slots enabled.
PCIe x16_3 slot runs at its highest performance support.
Enabling the X4 mode disables the PCIe x1_1, PCIe x1_2 and PCIe x1_3.
ASM1061 Storage Controller Front/Rear [Enable]
Allows you to enable or disable the ASM1061 storage controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASM1061 Storage OPROM Front/Rear [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the OptionRom of the ASM1061 storage controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller (USB3_E12) [Enabled]
This item allows you to enable or disable the Asmedia USB 3.0.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support [Disabled]
This item allows you to enable or disable Asmedia USB 3.0 battery charging support function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Intel LAN Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the controller.
[Enabled]
Enables the Intel LAN controller.
Intel PXE OPROM [Disabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable
or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Intel LAN controller.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
3-29
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.5.7
APM
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced\ APM
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
>
ErP Ready
Disabled
Allow BIOS yo switch off some power
at S5 to get the system ready for ErP
requirement. When set to Enabled, all
other PME options will be switched
off.
Restore AC Power Loss
Power On By PCIE/PCI
Power On By RTC
Power Off
Disabled
Disabled
ErP Ready [Disabled]
This item allows user to switch off some power at S5 to get the system ready for ErP
requirement. When set to Enabled, all other PME options will be switched off.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]
[Power On]
[Power Off]
[Last State]
The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.
The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was
before the AC power loss.
Power On By PCIE/PCI [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
Enables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
Power On By RTC [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables RTC to generate a wake event.
When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/
Minute/Second becomes user-configurable with set values.
3-30
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.8
Network Stack
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ Network Stack
>
Network Stack
Disable Link
Enable/Disable UEFI network staack.
Network Stack [Disable Link]
This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack.
Configuration options: [Disable Link] [Enable]
Ipv4 PXE Support [Enable]
Configuration options: [Disable Link] [Enable]
Ipv6 PXE Support [Enable]
Configuration options: [Disable Link] [Enable]
The following items appear only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled].
3-31
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.6
Monitor menu
The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change
the fan settings.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
CPU Temperature
CPU Temperature
MB Temperature
CPU Fan Speed
CPU OPT Speed
Chassis Fan 1 Speed
Chassis Fan 2 Speed
Chassis Fan 3 Speed
Chassis Fan 4 Speed
ASST Fan 1 Speed
ASST Fan 2 Speed
CPU Voltage
+41ºC / +104ºF
+31ºC / +87ºF
4909 RPM
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
N/A
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
+1.160 V
+3.320 V
+5.080 V
+12.288 V
Enabled
3.3V Voltage
5V Voltage
12V Voltage
CPU Q-Fan Control
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit
CPU Fan Profile
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
Chassis1 Q-Fan Control
Chassis1 Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis1 Fan Profile
Chassis2 Q-Fan Control
Chassis2 Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis2 Fan Profile
Chassis3 Q-Fan Control
Chassis3 Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis3 Fan Profile
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Chassis4 Q-Fan Control
Chassis4 Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis4 Fan Profile
ASST 1 Q-Fan Control
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Scroll down to display the following items:
ASST 1 Fan Speed Low Limit
ASST 1 Fan Profile
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
ASST 2 Q-Fan Control
ASST 2 Fan Speed Low Limit
ASST 2 Fan Profile
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Fan Overtime
1 minute
Enabled
Anti Surge Support
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard
temperatures. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.
CPU Fan Speed; CPU OPT Speed; Chassis Fan 1/2/3/4 Speed;
Assistant Fan 1/2 Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan, CPU OPT
fan, chassis fan, and assistant fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not
connected to the motherboard, the field shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to
display the detected speed.
CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard
voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item.
CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to
disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.
Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]
CPU Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows
you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on
the CPU temperature.
[Silent]
[Turbo]
[Manual]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
3-33
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
The following four items appear only when you set CPU Fan Profile to [Manual].
CPU Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range
from 20ºC to 75ºC.
CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from
0% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle. When the
CPU temperature reaches 75 degree, fan will run up to full speed.
CPU Lower Temperature [20]
Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.
CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 0%
to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under 40ºC, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum
duty cycle.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis 1/2/3/4 Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.
Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust depending
on the chassis temperature.
[Silent]
[Turbo]
[Manual]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan operation.
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
The following four items appear only when you set Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Profile to
[Manual].
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the chassis temperature. The values range
from 40ºC to 90ºC.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from
60% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle. When the
chassis temperature reaches 95 degree, fan will run up to full speed.
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Lower Temperature [40]
Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from
60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40ºC, the chassis fan will operate at the
minimum duty cycle.
ASST 1/2 Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the Assistant Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the Assistant Q-Fan control feature.
Assistant 1/2 Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the ASST 1/2 Q-Fan Control feature and allows
you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.
Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]
ASST 1/2 Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the ASST 1/2 Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the assistant fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the assistant fan automatically adjust
depending on the assistant temperature.
[Silent]
[Turbo]
[Manual]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet assistant fan operation.
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum assistant fan speed.
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
[Fan-off]
Sets to [Fan-off] to allow assistant fans to run at 0% duty cycle when the
motherboard’s temperature decreases to a cetain degree.
The following four items appear only when you set ASST 1/2 Fan Profile to [Manual].
ASST 1/2 Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the assistant/PCH temperature. The values
range from 40ºC to 90ºC.
ASST 1/2 Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum assistant/PCH fan duty cycle. The values
range from 60% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle.
When the assistant/PCH temperature reaches 95 degree, fan will run up to full speed.
ASST 1/2 Lower Temperature [40]
Displays the lower limit of the assistant/PCH temperature.
ASST 1/2 Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum assistant/PCH fan duty cycle. The values
range from 60% to 100%. When the assistant/PCH temperature is under 40ºC, the assistant/
PCH fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.
3-35
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Allow Fan Stop [Disable]
Allows your assistant fans to run at 0% cycle when the motherboard’s temperature drops to a
certain degree.
Configuration options: [Disable] [Enable]
Fan Overtime [1 minute]
Allows you to set the turbo fan’s working time to extend for good heat dissipation, and lowers
the temperature after system shutdown.
Configuration options: [Disable] [1 minute] [2 minutes] [3 minutes] [5 minutes] [10 minutes]
Anti Surge Support [Enabled]
This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function for UVP or OVP protection.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-36
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.7
Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Select the keyboard NumLock state
Bootup NumLock State
Full Screen Logo
On
Enabled
Enabled
Wait for ‘F1’ If Error
Option ROM Messages
Setup Mode
Force BIOS
EZ Mode
UEFI/Legacy Boot
PCI ROM Priority
Enable bot...
Legacy ROM
Boot Option Priorities
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Boot Override
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Bootup NumLock State [On]
[On]
[Off]
Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].
Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
Enables the full screen logo display feature.
Disables the full screen logo display feature.
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature.
Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables this function.
The system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs.
Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]
[Force BIOS]
The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot
sequence.
[Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party
manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so.
3-37
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Setup Mode [EZ Mode]
[Advanced Mode] Sets Advanced Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup
program.
[EZ Mode]
Sets EZ Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup program.
UEFI/Legacy Boot [Enable both UEFI and Legacy]
[Enable both UEFI and Legacy]
[Disable UEFI]
Enables both UEFI and Legacy boot.
Enables the Legacy boot, and disables the UEFI boot.
[Disable Legacy
Enables the UEFI booth, and disables the Legacy boot.
PCI ROM Priority [Legacy ROM]
Allows you launch a specific ROM option.
Configuration options: [Legacy ROM] [UEFI Compatible ROM]
Boot Option Priorities
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices
installed in the system.
•
•
To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears.
To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, press <F8> after POST.
Boot Override
These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on
the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start
booting from the selected device.
3-38
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.8
Tool menu
The Tool menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the submenu.
Exit
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Be used to update BIOS
>
>
>
ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility
ASUS O.C. Profile
ASUS SPD Information
3.8.1
ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to
confirm your choice.
For more details, refer to section 3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility.
3.8.2.
ASUS O.C. Profile
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool\ ASUS O.C. Profile
>
O.C. Profile Configuration
Save BIOS settings to Profile
Setup Profile 1 Status :
Setup Profile 2 Status :
Setup Profile 3 Status :
Setup Profile 4 Status :
Setup Profile 5 Status :
Setup Profile 6 Status :
Setup Profile 7 Status :
Setup Profile 8 Status :
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Add Your CMOS Profile
Label
Save to Profile
1
1
Add Your CMOS Profile
Load from Profile
The Setup Profile Status items show Not Installed if no profile is created.
3-39
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Label
Allows you to input the label of setup profile.
Save to Profile
Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a profile. Key in
a profile number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and select Yes. You can also do this by or
keying the <+> or <->, press <Enter> and select Yes.
Load from Profile
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in a profile
number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and select Yes. You can also do this by or keying
the <+> or <->, press <Enter> and select Yes.
•
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the
system boot failure!
•
We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/CPU
configuration and BIOS version.
3.8.3.
ASUS SPD Information
This item allows you to view the DRAM SPD information.
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Tool
Main
Back
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Tool\ ASUS SPD Information
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DIMM Slot #
DIMM_A2
DIMM Slot number
Manufacturer
Samsung
1024 MBytes
1333 Mhz
Module Size
Maximum Bandwidth
Part Number
M391B2873DZ1-CH9
060369f9
Serial Number
Product Week/Year
SPD Ext.
50/2011
JEDEC ID
JEDEC
Frequency(Mhz)
Voltage (V)
1333
1.500
9
1600
1.650
9
CAS# Lantency (tCL)
RAS# to CAS# (tRCD)
RAS# Precharge(tRP)
tRAS
9
9
9
9
27
36
24
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
tRC
33
Enter: Select
tWR
10
4
12
5
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
tRRD
tRFC
tWTR
tRTP
tFAW
74
5
88
6
5
6
20
24
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
DIMM Slot # [DIMM_A2]
Allows you to view the information of the DIMM slots.
Configuration options: [Slot 1] [Slot 2] [Slot 3] [Slot 4]
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.9
Exit menu
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and
save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit
menu.
Exit
Load Optimized Defaults
Save Changes & Reset
Discard Changes & Exit
ASUS EZ Mode
Launch UEFI Shell from filesystem device
Load Optimized Defaults
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup
menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation window appears.
Select Yes to load the default values.
Save Changes & Reset
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to
ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>,
a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.
Discard Changes & Exit
This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you
select this option or if you press <Esc>, a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to
discard changes and exit.
ASUS EZ Mode
This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen.
Launch UEFI Shell from filesystem device
This option allows you to attempt to launch the UEFI Shell application (shellx64.UEFI) from
one of the available filesystem devices.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.10 Updating BIOS
The ASUS website publishes the latest BIOS versions to provide enhancements on system
stability, compatibility, or performance. However, BIOS updating is potentially risky. If there
is no problem using the current version of BIOS, DO NOT manually update the BIOS.
Inappropriate BIOS updating may result in the system’s failure to boot. Carefully follow the
instructions of this chapter to update your BIOS if necessary.
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for this
motherboard.
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard BIOS setup program.
1.
2.
3.
ASUS Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.
ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a USB flash drive.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or
a USB flash drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.
4.
ASUS BIOS Updater: Updates and backups the BIOS in DOS environment using the
motherboard support DVD and a USB flash disk drive.
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need
to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS
Update or BIOS Updater utilities.
3.10.1
ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard
BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to:
•
•
•
•
•
Update the BIOS directly from the Internet
Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet
Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file
Save the current BIOS file
View the BIOS version information
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet
Service Provider (ISP).
Launching ASUS Update
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS Update by
clicking Update > ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
3-42
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Updating the BIOS through the Internet
To update the BIOS through the Internet:
1.
From the ASUS Update screen,
select Update BIOS from Internet,
and then click Next.
2.
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest
you to avoid network traffic.
If you want to enable the BIOS
downgradable function and auto
BIOS backup function, check the
checkboxs before the two items on
the screen.
3.
Select the BIOS version that you
want to download. Click Next.
4.
5.
You can decide whether to change
the BIOS boot logo, which is the
image appearing on screen during
the Power-On Self-Tests (POST).
Click Yes if you want to change the
boot logo or No to continue.
Follow the onscreen instructions to
complete the update process.
3-43
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:
1.
From the ASUS Update screen,
select Update BIOS from file, and
then click Next.
2.
Locate the BIOS file from the Open
window, click Open, and click Next.
3.
4.
You can decide whether to change
the BIOS boot logo. Click Yes if you
want to change the boot logo or No to
continue.
Follow the onscreen instructions to
complete the update process.
•
•
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual BIOS information
vary by models.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
3-44
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.10.2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a
bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility.
Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website
at www.asus.com.
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:
1.
Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port.
2.
Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select
ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.
Exit
ASUSTek EZ Flash BIOS ROM Utility V01.04
Flash Info
MODEL: SABERTOOTH Z77
VER: 0401
DATE: 01/12/2012
fs0:\
Drive
Folder Info
fs0:\
fs1:\
01/16/12 10:23p
01/16/12 11:50p
4194304
4132597
SABERZ77.ROM
SABERZ77.CAP
File Infor
MODEL:
Help Info
VER:
DATE:
[Enter] Select or Load
[Tab] Switch
[Up/Down/PageUp/PageDown/Home/End] Move
[Esc] Exit
[F2] Backup
3.
Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive field.
4.
Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS,
and then press <Enter>.
5.
Press <Tab> to switch to the Folder Info field.
6.
Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the BIOS file, and then press <Enter> to perform
the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.
3-45
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
•
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and
single partition only.
•
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system
boot failure!
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select
the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu for
details.
3.10.3
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the
BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a
corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains
the BIOS file.
The BIOS file in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS file published
on the ASUS official website. If you want to use the newer BIOS file, download the file at
support.asus.com and save it to a USB flash drive.
Recovering the BIOS
To recover the BIOS:
1.
Turn on the system.
2.
Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive, or the USB flash drive
containing the BIOS file to the USB port.
3.
The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the utility
reads the BIOS file and enters ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility automatically.
4.
The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS setting. To ensure
system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press <F5> to load default
BIOS values.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause
system boot failure!
3-46
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.10.4
ASUS BIOS Updater
The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also
allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or
gets corrupted during the updating process.
The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may
not be same as shown.
Before updating BIOS
1.
Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive in FAT32/16 format and
single partition.
2.
Download the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at http://
support.asus.com and save them on the USB flash drive.
•
•
NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS file and BIOS
Updater to a hard disk drive or USB flash drive in NTFS format.
Do not save the BIOS file to a floppy disk due to low disk capacity.
3.
Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).
Booting the system in DOS environment
1.
Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the USB port.
2.
Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the BIOS
Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the
optical drive as the boot device.
Please select boot device:
SATA: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
USB XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
UEFI: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Enter Setup
↑ and ↓ to move selection
ENTER to select boot device
ESC to boot using defaults
3.
4.
When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by
pressing the item number.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type d:and press <Enter> to switch the disk from
Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB flash drive).
Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!
C:\>d:
D:\>
3-47
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Backing up the current BIOS
To backup the current BIOS file using the BIOS Updater
Ensure that the USB flash drive is not write-protected and has enough free space to save
the file.
1.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[filename]and press <Enter>.
D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom
Filename Extension
The [filename] is any user-assigned filename with no more than eight alphanumeric
characters for the filename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension.
2.
The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When
BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2012/01/12]
Current ROM
BOARD: SABERTOOTH Z77
VER: 0262
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: 01/12/2012
DATE: Unknown
PATH: A:\
BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.
Note
Saving BIOS:
3-48
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Updating the BIOS file
To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater
1.
2.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /gand press <Enter>.
D:\>bupdater /pc /g
The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2012/01/12]
Current ROM
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
BOARD: SABERTOOTH Z77
VER: 0262
DATE: Unknown
DATE: 01/12/2012
PATH: A:\
A:
SABERZ77.ROM
4194304 2012-01-16 17:30:48
Note
[Enter] Select or Load
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move
[Tab] Switch
[B] Backup
[V] Drive Info
[Esc] Exit
3.
Press <Tab> to switch between screen fields and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys
to select the BIOS file and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS file
and prompts you to confirm BIOS update.
Are you sure to update BIOS?
Yes
No
4.
Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS
Updater. Restart your computer.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!
•
•
For BIOS Updater version 1.04 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS
prompt after updating BIOS.
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.
Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See Chaper 3
of your motherboard user manual for details.
•
Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS file if you have
disconnected them.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3-50
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Chapter 4
Chapter 4:
Software support
4.1
Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows® XP/ 64-bit XP/ 7 / 64-bit 7 operating systems (OS).
Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of
your hardware.
•
Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented
in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed
information.
•
Ensure that you install the Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before
installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.
4.2
Support DVD information
The support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software
applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.
The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the
ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates.
4.2.1
Running the support DVD
Place the support DVD into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if
Autorun is enabled in your computer. Click each menu tab and select the items you want to install.
The Drivers menu shows the
available device drivers if the system
detects installed devices. Install the
necessary drivers to use the devices.
The Make Disk menu The Manual menu contains
contains items to
the list of supplementary user
create the RAID/AHCI manuals. Click an item to open
driver disk.
the folder of the user manual.
Click the Contact
The Utilities
menu shows
the applications
and other
tab to display the
ASUS contact
information.
software that
the motherboard
supports.
Click an icon
to display DVD/
motherboard
information
Click an item
to install
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to
locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run
the DVD.
4-1
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
4.2.2
Obtaining the software manuals
The software manuals are included in the support DVD. Follow the instructions below to get
the necessary software manuals.
The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe®
Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the files.
1.
Click on the Manual tab. Click
on ASUS Motherboard Utility
Guide from the manual list on the
left.
2.
The Manual folder of the support
DVD appears. Double-click the
folder of your selected software.
3.
Some software manuals are
provided in different languages.
Double-click the language to
show the software manual.
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual software manuals
containing in the support DVD vary by models.
4-2
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3
Software information
Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you
through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software
application for more information.
4.3.1
AI Suite II
AI Suite II is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows users to
launch and operate these utilities simultaneously.
Installing AI Suite II
To install AI Suite II on your computer
1.
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your
computer has enabled the Autorun feature.
2.
3.
Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite II.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete installation.
Using AI Suite II
AI Suite II automatically starts when you enter the Windows® operating system (OS). The AI
Suite II icon appears in the Windows® notification area. Click the icon to open the AI Suite II
main menu bar.
Click each button to select and launch a utility, to monitor the system, to update the motherboard
BIOS, to display the system information, and to customize the settings of AI Suite II.
Click to customize
the interface settings
Click to show the
system information
Click to update the motherboard BIOS
Click to monitor sensors
or CPU frequency
Click to select a utility
Shortcut to Thermal Radar
•
•
The applications in the Tool menu vary with models.
The screeshots of AI Suite II in this user manual are for reference only. The actual
screenshots vary with models.
•
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website
at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
4-3
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
4.3.2
ASUS 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 without overheating. It consists of multiple sensors for various components on the
motherboard, giving user the ability to monitor each one individually. The Thermal Radar
automatically calculates ideal fan speeds based on different parameters selected by users for
each component, keeping everything cooler and longer lasting.
Launching Thermal Radar
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Thermal Radar by
clicking the Thermal Radar icon on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
The software screen captures in this manual are for reference only, but the operation
steps remain the same.
Using the Thermal Radar main screen
System thermal
sensor map
System thermal,
fan and voltage
information
Function list
•
•
Click any thermal sensor on the sensor map to read the detail information of the selected
sensor.
On the right part of the Thermal Radar main screen, click Temperature, Fan or Voltage
to see the real-time system thermal, fan and voltage information.
4-4
Chapter 4: Software support
Configuring system fan settings
The TUF Thermal Radar provides easy-to-use fan profiles for adjusting the CPU fan,
assistant fan (I/O cover fan and cover fan), and the chassis fan speeds according to
different ambient temperatures caused by different climate conditions in different geographic
regions and your PC’s system loading. Thermal Radar also provides fully-customizable fan
speed control, offering the most flexible controls of fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool
environment.
Loading default fan profiles
To load the system default fan profiles
1.
Click
or
from the function list on the bottom of the Thermal Radar main
screen.
2.
Click a fan to configure. For example,
click CPU Fan.
3.
Read the introduction and notice of the
selected fan. Click Setting.
4.
Select a fan profile in the Profile Name
drop-down list and click Apply. You can
also configure other system fans by
clicking the CHA and ASST icon below.
4-5
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Configuring user-customizable fan settings
You can customize the fan speed to meet different computing and environment needs.
To fast customize the fan speed
1.
2.
3.
Select User in the Profile Name drop-
down list.
Drag the control points on the fan speed
curve to set the fan speed percentage.
Click Apply.
You can also assign the specific system component(s) to monitor and have Thermal Radar to
dynamically adjust the fan speeds in real-time when the temperature of the monitored system
component reaches to certain degree.
To customize the fan speed with advanced options
1.
2.
Select User in the Profile Name drop-
down list.
Drag the paper clip icon to the system
component(s) listed on the right of the
Thermal Radar window. You can assign
maximum three components to monitor.
3.
Adjust the slider(s) under each
component you selected for a
combination of 100% and click Apply.
For example, you assign 60% to
motherboard, 20% to VCORE, and
20% to VCCSA and click Apply,
Thermal Radar automatically sets the
required fan speed by calculating the
overall temperature of the monitored
components.
4-6
Chapter 4: Software support
4.
If you are not sure how to choose
the proper components to monitor
and the percentage to adjust, click
Auto and have Thermal Radar do the
recommended settings for you. Click
Apply for the setting to take effect.
Configuring Fan-Off settings
When this function is selected, the fans automatically turn off when the temperature drops to
a certain level and run when the system’s temperature rises.
To enable or disable the assistant fans:
1.
2.
3.
Click
and select the fan from the
Fan Name drop-down list.
Select Fan-Off in the Profile name
dropdown list.
Click Apply.
You can also tick Allow Fan Stop to enable
the Fan-off setting under the User profile.
4-7
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Configuring Fan Overtime settings
Allows you to customize the fan’s working time to dissipate the remaining heat after shutting
down or in standby mode.
To fast customize the fan overtime:
1.
2.
3.
Click
.
Drag the scroll bar on the Fan Overtime screen.
Click Apply. Click Undo to cancel the fan overtime settings made.
Click and drag
to set time for
fan overtime
Click to save
and apply the
changes made
Click to undo the changes
made
•
•
•
Maximum fan overtime is 10 minutes.
Default fan overtime is 1 minute.
Fan Overtime is only applicable for two assistant fans.
•
•
Fan Overtime is disabled when you enable the ErP in the BIOS.
The two assistant (ASST) fans run on standby power after system shutdown.
DO NOT connect too many standby-powered devices as this result to power
overload.
4-8
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.3
TurboV EVO
ASUS TurboV EVO introduces TurboV that allows you to manually adjust the CPU frequency
and related voltage values. After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD,
launch TurboV EVO by clicking Tool > TurboV EVO on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
TurboV
TurboV allows you to overclock the BCLK frequency, CPU voltage, IMC voltage, and DRAM
Bus voltage in Windows® environment and takes effect in real-time without exiting and
rebooting the OS.
Refer to the CPU documentation before adjusting CPU voltage settings. Setting a high
voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the
system unstable.
For system stability, all changes made in TurboV will not be saved to BIOS settings and
will not be kept on the next system boot. Use the Save Profile function to save your
customized overclocking settings and manually load the profile after Windows starts.
Save the current
settings as a new
profile
Load profile
Target values
Current values
Voltage
Adjustment
bars
Click to show
settings
Undoes all changes
without applying
Click to restore
all start-up
settings
Applies all changes
immediately
4-9
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Using Advanced Mode
Click on the Advanced Mode tab to adjust the advanced voltage settings.
Advanced mode
Target values
Voltage
Adjustment
bars
Undoes all changes
without applying
Current values
Click to restore
all start-up
settings
Applies all changes
immediately
CPU Ratio
Allows you to manually adjust the CPU ratio.
1.
2.
Click the CPU Ratio tab.
Click ON to activate the CPU Ratio function. The system automatically reboots for the
changes to take effect.
3.
4.
After system reboot, launch TurboV EVO again, and then click the CPU Ratio tab. Drag
the adjustment bar upwards or downwards to the desired value.
Click Apply to make the change take effect.
CPU Ratio
Adjustment bar
Undoes all changes
without applying
Click to restore
all start-up
settings
Applies all changes
immediately
•
•
Set the CPU Ratio Setting item in BIOS to [Auto] before using the CPU Ratio function
in TurboV. Refer to Chapter 3 of your motherboard user manual for details.
The CPU Ratio bars show the status of the CPU cores, which vary with your CPU
model.
4-10
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.4
DIGI+ Power Control
DIGI+ PowerControl allows you to adjust VRM voltage and frequency modulation to enhance
reliability and stability. It also provides the highest power efficiency, generating less heat to
longer component lifespan and minimize power loss.
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch DIGI+ Power Control
by clicking Tool > DIGI+ Power Control on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Select CPU Power or DRAM Power to adjust the power control settings.
CPU Power
6
5
1
2
Application aids
3
4
Apply all changes
immediately
Undo all changes
without applying
Click to proceed to next page
Function no. Function description
1
CPU Load-line Calibration
It allows you to adjust the voltage settings and control the system
temperature. Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and
good overclocking performance but increases the CPU and VRM thermal.
2
3
4
CPU Current Capability
CPU Current Capability provides wider total power range for overclocking.
A higher value setting gets higher VRM power consumption delivery.
CPU Voltage Frequency
Switching frequency will affect the VRM transient response and
component thermal. Higher frequency gets quicker transient response.
CPU Power Phase Control
Increase phase number under heavy system loading to get more transient
and better thermal performance. Reduce phase number under light
system loading to increase VRM efficiency.
5
6
iGPU Load line Calibration
Load-line is defined by Intel VRM specifications and affects the iGPU
voltage. The iGPU working voltage decreases proportionally to integrated
graphics loading. A higher value can get a higher iGPU voltage and a
good performance, but decreases the CPU and VRM thermal conditions.
iGPU Current Capability
A higher value brings wider total iGPU power range and extends the
overclocking frequency range simultaneously to enhance the iGPU
performance.
4-11
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
7
Application aids
8
9
Apply all changes
immediately
Undo all changes
without applying
Click to proceed to
previous page
Function no. Function description
7
8
9
CPU Power Thermal Control
A higher temperature brings a wider CPU power thermal range and
extends the overclocking performance to enlarge O.C potential.
CPU Power Response Control
Provides a faster and precise power response rate for your CPU. Apply a
higher value for extreme overclocking.
CPU Power Duty Control
Balances the load on the power phases based on the current system load
or phase bank temperature.
4-12
Chapter 4: Software support
DRAM Power
1
Application aids
2
3
4
Apply all changes
immediately
Undo all changes
without applying
Function no. Function description
1
2
3
DRAM Current Capability
A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the
overclocking frequency range simultaneously.
DRAM Voltage Frequency
Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency for system stability or
to increase OC Range.
DRAM Power Phase Control
Set Manual Adjustment to faster phase response to increase system
performance or to slower phase response to increase DRAM power
efficiency.
4
DRAM Power Thermal Control
Allows you to set a wider DRAM power thermal range, and extends the
overclocking tolerance to widen O.C potential.
•
•
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU and DRAM
specification.
Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Smart DIGI+
1
2
Applies the default
settings
Function no. Function description
1
35W
Allows you to limit the wattage to 35W for power saving.
2
45W
Allows you to limit the wattage to 45W for power saving.
Setting a specific wattage decreases the total power delivery to the CPU, and affects the
system’s performance under a heavy system load.
•
•
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU and DRAM
specification.
Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.5
Sensor Recorder
Sensor Recorder monitors the changes in the system voltage, temperature, and fan speed on
a timeline. The History Record function allows you to designate specific time spans on record
to keep track of the three system statuses for certain purposes.
Launching Sensor Recorder
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Sensor Recorder by
clicking Tool > Sensor Recorder on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using Sensor Recorder
Click on Voltage/ Temperature/ Fan Speed tabs for the status you want to monitor. Colored
lines will automatically appear on the diagram to indicate the immediate changes in the
system status.
Using History Record
1.
2.
3.
Click on the History Record tab and adjust the settings on the left for Type, Date,
Record Interval, and Record Duration according to need.
Colored lines will then appear on the diagram to indicate the changes in the requested
status of the given time.
Click on Recording to record the history changes.
Click on Monitor > Sensor on the AI Suite II main menu bar and a highlight of the system
statuses will appear on the right panel.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
4.3.6
Ai Charger+
This utility allows you to fast-charge your portable BC 1.1* mobile devices on your
computer’s USB port three times faster than the standard USB devices**.
•
•
*Check your USB device manufacturer if it fully supports the BC 1.1 function.
**The actual charging speed may vvary with your USB device’s conditions.
To launch Ai Charger+, click, Tool > Ai Charger+ on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.7
USB Charger+
This utility allows you to fast-charge your portable USB devices even if your PC is off, in
Sleep Mode, or Hibernate Mode.
Launching the USB Charger+
To launch this utility, open the AI Suite II, then click Tool > USB Charger+.
Displays the
status of the
Application aids
connected device*
Click to detect the
currently connected
device
Click to choose
the USB fast-
charging mode
settings
Click to discard the
settings
Click to apply the
settings
* The illustration above shows that no device connected to your PC for
fast-charging.
USB fast-charging mode settings
Click the dropdown box, and select a proper charge mode when your PC is off, in Sleep
Mode, or Hibernate Mode.
•
•
•
•
•
Disable: disables the USB fast-charging function.
ASUS: fast-charges your connected ASUS devices.
Apple: fast-charges your connected Apple devices.
Kindle: fast-charges your Kindle devices.
Others: charges other portable USB devices.
The utility cannot detect the devices connected to your computer if the charging mode is
enabled.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Setting up the charging function
When a portable device is connected to the USB port of the PC, the USB Charger+
automatically detects the kind of your device.
Charging the device
Click
to fast-charge your device.
Indicates that
the portable
device is in
charging mode
Click to fast-charge
your connected
device.
Click to rescan the
connected device.
Clicking the
stops the charging of your connected device, and rescans for other detected
devices. Click the
to re-enable the fast-charging.
Disabling the charging function
Click
to stop charging your device.
Click to stop
fast-charging the
connected device.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.8
USB 3.0 Boost
The ASUS exclusive USB 3.0 Boost provides speed boost for USB 3.0 devices and the
up-to-date support of USB Attached SCSI Protocol (UASP). With USB 3.0 Boost, you can
accelerate the transfer speed of your USB 3.0 devices with ease.
Launching USB 3.0 Boost
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch USB 3.0 Boost by
clicking Tool > USB 3.0 Boost on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Configuring USB 3.0 Boost
1.
2.
Connect a USB 3.0 device to the USB 3.0 port.
USB 3.0 Boost automatically detects the property of the connected device and
switches to Turbo mode or UASP mode (if UASP is supported by the connected
device).
3.
You can manually switch the USB 3.0 mode back to Normal mode at any time.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
4.3.9
Network iControl
ASUS Network iControl, a one-stop setup network control center that gives you the EZ Start,
Quick Connection, and EZ Profile functions, makes it easier for you to manage your network
bandwidth. It also allows you to automatically connect to a PPPoE network for a more
convenient online experience.
To launch Network iControl, click Tool > Network iControl from AI Suite II main menu bar.
•
•
Ensure to install the LAN drivers before using this function.
Network iControl is only supported under Windows 7 and can only support the
onboard LAN.
Using EZ Start
EZ Start allows you to quickly activate Network iControl, and set the highest bandwidth
priority for your top currently running program.
To use EZ Start:
1.
2.
Click the EZ Start tab.
Click ON/OFF to enable/disable Network iControl.
•
•
•
By default, Network iControl is set to ON.
When switched off, the Quick Connection, EZ Profile and Info are disabled.
You may monitor the bandwidth priority from your desktop’s taskbar.
3.
Tick Set current network program as the highest priority to enable User Profile.
4.
Select a profile and click Apply.
You may also apply your personal profile in EZ Start.
Select ON to activate
Network iControl
Displays the
current network
programs
bandwidth
Click to apply
the settings
made
Click to enable the network
program as the highest priority
Click to select a profile
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Chapter 4: Software support
Using Quick Connection
Configuring the PPPoE connection settings
Before enabling the Network iControl’s Quick Connection functions, you must configure the
PPPoE connection settings
To configure the PPPoE settings:
1. Right-click
in the taskbar, and select Open Network and Sharing Center.
.
2. Right-click the PPPoE Connection, and select Properties.
3. Click the Options tab, and deselect Prompt for name and password, certificate, etc.
Click OK to complete the auto PPPoE connection settings.
•
•
You only need to configure the PPPoE connection settings once.
Obtain the necessary information about your PPPoE connection from your
network provider.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Configuring the Quick Connection
To configure the auto-PPPoE connection:
1. Click the Quick Connection tab.
2. Tick Automatically connect online anytime option, then select the connection name
in the Connection Name dropdown box.
3. Click Apply to enable PPPoE automatic network connection.
You can also enable the No Delay TCP function to help improve the network performance.
Click to select
Connection Name
Tick to set
the auto
PPPoE
connection
Click to apply
settings
Click ON
to improve
network
performance
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Chapter 4: Software support
Using EZ Profile
To use the EZ Profile:
EZ Profile allows you to load, edit, and save your own network program priority profile.
1. Click the EZ Profile tab. The programs are shown in the network program column.
2. Select the network program, and click
to create your profile.
3. Click
4. Click
to save the changes and/or rename your profile.
,
, or
to set the program priority as High, Normal, or Low.
Click to save, or rename your
Click to select a
profile settings
network profile
Click to set
program as
High/Normal/
Low priority
Information
pane of
currently
running
Pre-schedule
your network
priorities to
programs
avoid network
congestions
Select a
program, and
click
to edit your
network profile
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4.3.10
ASUS Update
ASUS Update lays out the options for updating BIOS on your system. Update BIOS utility
on your system or simply save the utility for later use just by following the directions on this
convenient updating feature.
Launching ASUS Update
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS Update by
clicking Update> ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using ASUS Update
Select the way you would like to do with the BIOS utility. Click on Next and follow the
instructions to complete your request.
•
•
•
•
Update BIOS from Internet
Download the latest BIOS utility from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com) and
follow the suggested procedures to update the BIOS version on your system.
Download BIOS from Internet
Download the latest BIOS utility from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com) and
save for later use.
Update BIOS from file
Use the BIOS utility demanded from a source file to update the BIOS version on your
system.
Save BIOS to file
Back up the current BIOS utility on your system to another file or USB disk to save for
later use.
There may be risks of system crash when updating BIOS. Backing up the original BIOS
utility is recommended before updating.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.11
MyLogo2
This MyLogo utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears
on screen during the Power-On-Self-Tests (POST). Personalize your computer from the very
beginning!
Launching ASUS Update
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch MyLogo by clicking
Update> MyLogo on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using MyLogo
Select the way you would like to do update your boot logo. Then click Next and follow the
given instructions.
Change the BIOS boot logo of my motherboard
1.
Under Current BIOS, click Browse and choose the desired image for your boot logo.
Then click on Next.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.
3.
4.
5.
Click on Auto Tune to adjust image size compatibility or adjust the resolution bar.
You can click on Booting Preview to preview the boot image. Then click Next.
Click on Flash to start updating the image to the boot logo.
Click on Yes to reboot or you can also see the new logo next time you restart your
computer.
Change the boot logo of a downloaded BIOS file and update (or do not update) this
BIOS to the motherboard
1.
At BIOS File, Browse to download the requested BIOS file to your system. This utility
will help you detect the compatibility of the BIOS version.
2.
3.
Then at Picture File, Browse to select the desired image for boot logo. Click Next.
Follow steps 2-5 in Change the BIOS boot logo of my motherboard to complete
logo update.
The fullscreen logo application in BIOS utility must be enabled for MyLogo to take effect.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.12
Audio configurations
The Realtek® audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio
experience on your computer. The software provides Jack-Detection function, S/PDIF Out
support, and interrupt capability. The CODEC also includes the Realtek® proprietary UAJ®
(Universal Audio Jack) technology for all audio ports, eliminating cable connection errors and
giving users plug and play convenience.
Follow the installation wizard to install the Realtek® Audio Driver from the support DVD that
came with the motherboard package.
If the Realtek audio software is correctly installed, you will find the
Realtek HD Audio Manager icon on the taskbar. Double-click
on the icon to display the Realtek HD Audio Manager.
Realtek HD Audio Manager
A. Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows® 7™
Configuration option tabs (vary with the audio devices connected)
Device advanced
settings
Exit button
Information button
Minimize button
Control settings
Set default device buttons
Connector settings
Analog and digital connector status
B.
Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows XP
Exit button
Configuration
options
Minimize button
Control settings
window
Information
button
•
•
•
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
Due to Intel® Z77 platform does not support Windows® Vista™, Realtek HD Audio
driver is only supported by Windows® 7™ /Windows® XP™.
To play Blu-ray disc, ensure to use an HDCP compliant monitor.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
4.4
RAID configurations
The motherboard comes with the Intel® Z77 chipset controller that allows you to configure
Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the following RAID
configurations:
•
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support.
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions.
•
•
Due to Windows® XP limitation, a RAID array with the total capacity over 2TB cannot
be set as a boot disk. A RAID array over 2TB can only be set as a data disk only.
If you want to install a Windows® operating system to a hard disk drive included in a
RAID set, you have to create a RAID driver disk and load the RAID driver during OS
installation. Refer to section 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk for details.
4.4.1
RAID definitions
RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in
parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a
sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access
and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives is required for this setup.
RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from one drive to
a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software directs all applications
to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of the data in the other drive. This RAID
configuration provides data protection and increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use
two new drives or use an existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be
of the same size or larger than the existing drive.
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard disk drives. Among
the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and
higher storage capacity. The RAID 5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing,
relational database applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems.
Use a minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.
RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy data) having
to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 configuration you get all the benefits of both
RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive
and three new drives for this setup.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.4.2
Installing Serial ATA hard disks
The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install
identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:
1.
2.
3.
Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.
Connect the SATA signal cables.
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.
4.4.3
Setting the RAID item in BIOS
You must enable the RAID function in the BIOS Setup before creating RAID set(s) using
SATA HDDs. To do this:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Enter the BIOS Setup during POST.
Go to the Advanced menu > SATA Configuration, and then press <Enter>.
Set the SATA Mode item to [RAID Mode].
Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup.
Refer to Chapter 3 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup.
Due to chipset limitation, when set any of SATA ports to RAID mode, all SATA ports run at
RAID mode together.
4.4.4
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility
To enter the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility:
1.
2.
Turn on the system.
During POST, press <Ctrl> + <I> to display the utility main menu.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ MAIN MENU ]
1. Create RAID Volume
2. Delete RAID Volume
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID
4. Recovery Volume Options
5. Exit
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes:
None defined.
Physical Devices:
Port Device Model
Serial #
9LS0HJA4
9LS0F4HL
3LS0JYL8
9LS0BJ5H
Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
[↑↓]-Select
[ESC]-Exit
[ENTER]-Select Menu
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through the menus
and select the menu options.
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and may not
exactly match the items on your screen.
The utility supports maximum four hard disk drives for RAID configuration.
Creating a RAID set
To create a RAID set:
1.
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The
following screen appears:
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]
Name: Volume0
RAID Level: RAID0(Stripe)
Disks: Select Disks
Strip Size:
128KB
Capacity: 0.0
Sync: N/A
GB
Create Volume
[ HELP ]
Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is
16 characters or less.
[↑↓]Change
[TAB]-Next
[ESC]-Previous Menu
[ENTER]-Select
2.
3.
Enter a name for the RAID set and press <Enter>.
When the RAID Level item is selected, press the up/down arrow key to select a RAID
level to create, and then press <Enter>.
4.
When the Disks item is selected, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives you want
to include in the RAID set. The SELECT DISKS screen appears:
[ SELECT DISKS ]
Port Drive Model
Serial #
9LS0HJA4
9LS0F4HL
3LS0JYL8
9LS0BJ5H
Size Status
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
Select 2 to 6 disks to use in creating the volume.
]-Prev/Next [SPACE]-SelectDisk [ENTER]-Done
[
↑↓
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Chapter 4: Software support
5.
Use the up/down arrow key to select a drive, and then press <Space> to select. A small
triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection.
6.
Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID array (for RAID 0, 10
and 5 only),and then press <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4KB
to 128KB. The following are typical values:
RAID 0: 128KB
RAID 10: 64KB
RAID 5: 64KB
We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for
multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.
7.
8.
When the Capacity item is selected, enter the RAID volume capacity that you want
and press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity.
When the Create Volume item is selected, press <Enter>. The following warning
message appears:
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):
9.
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to go back
to the CREATE VOLUME menu.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Deleting a RAID set
Take caution when deleting a RAID set. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when
you delete a RAID set.
To delete a RAID set:
1.
From the utility main menu, select 2. Delete RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The
following screen appears:
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[ DELETE VOLUME MENU ]
Name
Volume0
Level
RAID0(Stripe)
Drives
2
Capacity
298.0GB
Status
Normal
Bootable
Yes
[ HELP ]
Deleting a volume will reset the disks to non-RAID.
WARNING: ALL DISK DATA WILL BE DELETED.
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
[↑↓]-Select
[ESC]-Previous Menu
[DEL]-Delete Volume
2.
Use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set you want to delete, and then press
<Del>. The following warning message appears:
[ DELETE VOLUME VERIFICATION ]
ALL DATA IN THE VOLUME WILL BE LOST!
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
Are you sure you want to delete volume “Volume0”? (Y/N):
3.
Press <Y> to delete the RAID set and return to the utility main menu, or press <N> to
return to the DELETE VOLUME menu.
Exiting the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility
To exit the utility:
1.
From the utility main menu, select 5. Exit, and then press <Enter>. The following
warning message appears:
[ CONFIRM EXIT ]
Are you sure you want to exit? (Y/N):
2.
Press <Y> to exit or press <N> to return to the utility main menu.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.4.5
Intel® 2012 Desktop responsiveness technologies
This section details the overview of the installation and configuration procedures of the Intel®
2012 Desktop responsiveness technologies.
Intel® 2012 Desktop responsiveness technologies feature the three technologies:
•
•
•
Intel® Smart Response Technology
Intel® Rapid Start Technology
Intel® Smart Connect Technology
System Requirements
In order for the system to run smoothly for the Intel® 2012 Desktop responsiveness, your
system must meet the following requirements:
• CPU:
• OS:
Intel® 3rd/2nd generation Core Processor family
Windows® 7 operating system
• SSD:
One dedicated SSD (Solid State Disk) to support Intel® Smart Response and
Intel ® Rapid Start Technology is necessary.
Refer to the SSD Capacity Requirements table for the information of SSD size, partition
capacity, and system memory requirements.
• HDD:
At least one HDD (Hard Disk Drive) for the system OS drive.
• DRAM:
To enable Intel® Rapid Start Technology, DRAM size should be at least 8GB.
Ensure to enable the acceleration of Intel® Smart Response Technology before
creating the partition for the Intel® Rapid Start Technology.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
SSD Capacity Requirements
SSD Partition Capacity
Requirements
System DRAM
4GB
2GB
2GB
8GB
Intel® Rapid Start
4GB
8GB
Intel® Smart Response
20GB
20GB
20GB
Separate 20GB
and 2GB
partition
(SSD size >
22GB)
Separate
20GB and 4GB 20GB and 8GB
partition
(SSD size >
24GB)
Separate
Intel® Smart Response
and
Intel® Rapid Start
partition
(SSD size >
28GB)
Separate
20GB and 4GB
partition
(SSD size >
24GB)
Separate 20GB
and 8GB
partition
(SSD size >
28GB)
Intel® Smart Response,
Intel® Rapid Start,
and
Separate 20GB
and 2GB partition
(SSD size >
22GB)
Intel® Smart Connect
•
•
You cannot create RAID drivers on the SSD for Intel® Rapid Start and Intel® Smart
Response.
Due to OS behavior, Intel® Rapid Start Technology will not work properly on system
memory over 4GB under Windows® 7 32-bit operating system.
•
•
Only Intel® internal SATA ports (gray and blue) support Intel® 2012 Desktop
responsiveness technologies.
The performance of Intel® Smart Response Technology and Intel® Rapid Storage
Technology vary with the installed SSD.
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Chapter 4: Software support
Intel® Smart Response Technology
Intel® Smart Response Technology boosts overall system performance. It uses an installed
SSD with at least 20GB size as a cache for frequently-accessed operations. It speeds up
hard drive and main memory interaction, reduces load and wait time, maximizes storage
usage, and saves power via the reduction on unnecessary hard drive spin.
Before applying Intel® Smart Response Technology, setting the SATA Mode BIOS item to
[RAID mode] in BIOS setup is necessary. Refer to section 3.5.3 SATA Configuration for
details
Installing Intel® Smart Response Technology
1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The installation wizard appears if your
computer has enabled the Autorun feature.
2. Click the Drivers tab, then click Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Driver software.
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Using the Intel® Smart Response Technology
1. Click Accelerate to launch Smart
Response Technology settings.
2.
Follow these steps to configure the
acceleration settings:
a. Select the SSD you want to use to
accelerate your storage system.
b. Select the size allocated for SSD
caching.
c. Select the disk or volume you want
to use for caching.
d. Select any of these modes:
Enhanced mode: This mode writes
through, writes to SSD and HDD at
the same time.
Maximized mode: This mode writes
back, writes to SSD, and writes back
to HDD at a specified time.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.
Select Disable Acceleration to disable
this function, and select Change Mode to
>
•
•
To enable Intel® Smart Response Technology, you need at least one SSD ( 20GB)
and an HDD, and only one SSD can be assigned for caching.
=
If you want to restore the OS, go to BIOS Option ROM > Acceleration Options
and remove the Disks/Volume Acceleration to disable Intel® Smart Response
Technology. Refer to Chapter 4, section Installing Serial ATA hard disk for the entry of
BIOS Option ROM.
•
The maximum caching size on the SSD is 64GB. If it exceeds, the storage capacity
left out for caching can still be identified by the system for normal storage.
Intel® Rapid Start Technology
Intel® Rapid Start Technology allows your system to quickly wake up from sleep mode.
•
•
Before applying Intel® Rapid Start Technology, go to Advanced Mode > Advanced >
PCH Configuration in BIOS item, and enable Intel® Rapid Start Technology.
Ensure to follow the procedure Creating a partition precisely to enable the Intel
Rapid Start function. Error message appears if you install the Intel® Rapid Start Utility
before creating a partition.
Creating a partition
•
Ensure to back up your data before using the Microsoft partition tool. Incorrect
partitioning process will result to data loss.
•
Adjusting the DRAM to a high frequency will result to an unstable system
performance.
To create a partition:
1.
2.
Go to Start, right-click Computer > Manage > Disk Management.
Select the SSD that you want to partition.
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Chapter 4: Software support
3.
Right click the New Volume
that you want to shrink from,
and select Shrink Volume.
4.
If your SSD is not initialized and not formatted:
a. Right-click the disk that you want to partition, and select Initialize.
b. Right-click the unallocated volume, select New Simple Volume, and follow
the remaining steps.
If your SSD is smaller than 64GB, and is set to Full disk capacity caching option for Intel®
Smart Response, you cannot see any volume in the Disk Management. Ensure to set your
cache memory value of 18.6GB in Intel® Smart Response to allow enough capacity for the
Intel® Rapid Start partition.
5.
Key in the required partition
size, which must be equal to
the system DRAM memory
(1GB = 1024MB). Click
Shrink.
Go to Start > Control Panel
> System and Security
> System, and check the
DRAM size information.
The unallocated volume is
allocated to the selected
disk.
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ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
6.
To launch the disk partitioning tool, click Start > Programs > Accessories >
Command Prompt tool.
7.
8.
Type diskpartand press Enter.
In the diskpart prompt, type
list diskafter DISKPART,
and press Enter. Select the
disk with the unallocated
volume by typing select
disk x(x = disk number),
and press Enter .
•
•
The value “x” refers to a disk number where you created the unallocated partition.
Refer to step 5 for details about the unallocated disk space in the SSD.
9.
Type create partition
primary, and press Enter.
10. After creating a primary
partition, type detail
disk, and press Enter
to view the details of the
partitioned disk.
11. Select the RAW volume
that has the same size as
the shrinked volume, type
select volume x(x =
number), and press Enter
to store the Intel® Rapid
Start partition.
•
The value “x” refers to a disk number where you want to create the store partition.
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Chapter 4: Software support
12. Type set id=84 override, press Enter, and wait for the “shrinking process” until
the Disk Management utility identifies a new partition called Hibernation Partition.
The Hibernation Partition does not appear when you choose “GPT (GUID Partition Table
store type”. Ensure the “Unallocated” disappears from the volume, and a new partition is
identified.
13. Reboot the system after creating the partition.
If the system is not rebooted, the partition will not be completed and Intel® Rapid Start
Technology will not work properly.
Enabling and disabling the Intel® Rapid Start Technology
Install the Intel® Rapid Start Technology first from your support DVD in order to launch the
Intel® Rapid Start Manager.
After creating the partition, launch the Intel® Rapid Start Manager to enable or disable the
Intel® Rapid Start Technology.
1.
Click the Show hidden icons arrow from the right
side of the task bar, and click Intel® Rapid Start
Technology Manager icon.
4-39
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
2.
Tick On in the Status field to enable the function, and click Save.
Select and click to enable
or disable the function
Click to enable or
disable battery
saving mode. This
function only applies
to notebooks.
Click to save the Click to cancel the
Click to enable or disable the timer. When enabled, move
the scroll bar to the desired time. When the system is
idle for more than the time period you set, the system
automatically goes into the Intel® Rapid Start mode.
Default time is 10 minutes.
settings made.
settings made.
Recovering the partition
This procedure allows you to delete the Intel® Rapid Start Technology from your system and
recover the partition you made for the Intel Rapid Start Technology installation.
1.
2.
Run the Command Prompt tool.
Type diskpart and press Enter.
3.
At the diskpart prompt, type
list diskafter DISKPART,
and press Enter.
4.
Select the disk (SSD)
where the Intel® Rapid Start
Technology is installed for
volume recovery, type select
disk x (x = number), and
press Enter.
The value “x” refers to a disk number where you want to delete the store partition.
4-40
Chapter 4: Software support
5.
Type list partition,
press Enter, and select the
partition where the Intel®
Rapid Start Technology is
installed by typing select
partition x(x = number),
and press Enter.
The value “x” refers to a disk number where you want to delete the store partition.
6.
Type delete partition override, and press Enter. The diskpart utility deletes
the selected partition.
7.
8.
In the desktop, click Start, right-click Computer, and click Manage.
In the Computer Management window,
click Disk Management, right click
the shrinked new volume, and select
Extend Volume.
9.
As the Extend Volume Wizard appears,
click Next.
4-41
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
10. Click Next after selecting the default
selected disk.
11. Extend volume setup is completed. Click Finish to recover the Intel® Rapid Start
Technology partition.
12. Reboot the system after deleting the partition.
13. Go to Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features > to remove the
Intel® Rapid Start Manager for the complete deletion of Intel® Rapid Start Technology.
Intel® Smart Connect Technology
The Intel® Smart Connect Technology is a feature that provides the latest content updates
and energy efficiency to your computer’s platform.
Once installed and activated, Intel® Smart Connect Technology periodically wakes up the
system from sleep mode, performs user state gathering, and initiates re-entry to sleep mode
to wake-up after a set time interval.
•
Intel® Smart Connect Technology supports Windows® Live Mail, Microsoft Outlook, and
Seesmic applications.
•
It is necessary to enable the items of the PCH Configuration in the BIOS before
applying the Intel® Smart Connect Technology. Go to Advanced Mode > Advanced >
PCH Configuration, and enable the Intel® Smart Connect Technology.
Installing the Intel® Smart Connect Technology
1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive.
2. Go to Utilities, and click Intel® Smart Connect Technology.
3. As the setup wizard appears, click Next to begin the setup.
4. Tick I accept the terms in the License Agreement, and click Next.
4-42
Chapter 4: Software support
5.
Select all and click Next for
Custom Setup.
6.
7.
Click Install to proceed the installation.
Click Yes to restart your system, and for the newly installed Intel® Smart Connect
Technology to take effect.
Using the Intel® Smart Connect Technology
•
Before the system goes to sleep mode, ensure to keep your applications on the
desktop, and enter the applications, passwords.
Ensure that the internet is in connection when enabling the Intel® Smart Connect
Technology.
•
1.
2.
Click Start > All Programs > Intel > Intel® Smart Connect Technology.
In the Basic tab, click Enable Updating. When enabled, the Advanced tab is
available for advanced function settings.
The Advanced tab is activated
when updating is enabled
Click to view version
information and help topics
Click to configure
the basic settings
When updating is
enabled, click to
reset all settings
to default.
Click to enable
or disable the
function
When the scroll bar
is activated, adjust
the waking up time
period for Internet
data update.
4-43
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
3.
4.
5.
To disable the
updating function, click
Disable Updating.
Clicking this button
automatically disables
the configuration in the
Advanced tab. To reset
to defaults, click Reset
All to Defaults.
In the Advanced tab,
set up the schedule
during low power usage
time period for power
saving. This setting only
applies to the assigned
time period.
In the Help tab, click About to view the feature’s version. Click Topics to learn more
about the Intel® Smart Connect Technology and its configuration.
4-44
Chapter 4: Software support
4.5
Creating a RAID driver disk
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing a Windows® operating system
on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set.
•
•
The motherboard does not provide a floppy drive connector. You have to use a
USB floppy disk drive when creating a SATA RAID driver disk.
Windows® XP may not recognize the USB floppy disk drive due to Windows® XP
limitation. To work around this OS limitation, refer to section 4.5.4 Using a USB
floppy disk drive.
4.5.1
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS
To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Boot your computer.
Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility.
Set the optical drive as the primary boot device.
Insert the support DVD into the optical drive.
Save changes and exit BIOS.
When the Make Disk menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk.
Insert a formatted floppy disk into the USB floppy disk drive, then press <Enter>.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
4.5.2
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®
To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Start Windows®.
Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk.
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.
Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click Intel AHCI/RAID Driver Disk to create a
RAID driver disk.
5.
Select USB floppy disk drive as the destination disk.
6.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid a computer virus infection.
4-45
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
4.5.3
Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation
To install the RAID driver in Windows® XP:
1.
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-
party SCSI or RAID driver.
2.
Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the USB floppy disk drive.
3.
When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, select the RAID driver for the
corresponding OS version.
4.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
To install the RAID driver for Windows® 7 or later OS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation
media containing the RAID driver.
Insert the USB flash drive with RAID driver into the USB port or the support DVD into
the optical drive, and then click Browse.
Click the name of the device you’ve inserted, go to Drivers > RAID, and then select
the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. Click OK.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
Before loading the RAID driver from a USB flash drive, you have to use another computer
to copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to the USB flash drive.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.5.4
Using a USB floppy disk drive
Due to OS limitation, Windows® XP may not recognize the USB floppy disk drive when you
install the RAID driver from a floppy disk during the OS installation.
To solve this issue, add the USB floppy disk drive’s Vendor ID (VID) and Product ID (PID) to
the floppy disk containing the RAID driver. Refer to the steps below:
1.
Using another computer, plug the USB floppy disk drive, and insert the floppy disk
containing the RAID driver.
2.
Right-click My Computer on the
Windows® desktop or start menu,
and then select Manage from the
pop-up window.
or
3.
Select Device Manager. From the
Universal Serial Bus controllers,
right-click xxxxxx USB Floppy, and
then select Properties from the pop-up
window.
The name of the USB floppy disk
drive varies with different vendors.
4.
Click Details tab. The Vendor ID (VID)
and Product ID (PID) are displayed.
5.
Browse the contents of the RAID driver
disk to locate the file txtsetup.oem.
6.
Double-click the file. A window appears,
allowing you to select the program for
opening the oem file.
4-47
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
7.
Use Notepad to open the file.
8.
9.
Find the [HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer] and
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer] sections in the txtsetup.oem
file.
Type the following line to the bottom of the two sections:
id = “USB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxx”, “usbstor”
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer]
id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1C02&CC_0106”,”iaStor”
id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor”
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer]
id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2822&CC_0104”,”iaStor”
id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor”
Add the same line to both sections.
The VID and PID vary with different vendors.
10. Save and exit the file.
4-48
Chapter 4: Software support
Chapter 5
Chapter 5:
Multiple GPU technology support
5.1
AMD® CrossFireX™
technology
The motherboard supports the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology that allows you to install
multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in
this section.
5.1.1
Requirements
•
In Dual CrossFireX mode, you should have two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics
cards or one CrossFireX-ready dual-GPU graphics card that are AMD® certified.
•
•
Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the AMD CrossFireX technology.
Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com).
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power
required by your system. See Chapter 2 for details.
•
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.
•
Visit the AMD Game website (http://game.amd.com) for the latest certified graphics
card and the supported 3D application list.
5.1.2
Before you begin
For AMD CrossFireX to work properly, you have to uninstall all existing graphics card drivers
before installing AMD CrossFireX graphics cards to your system.
To uninstall existing graphics card drivers:
1.
2.
Close all current applications.
For Windows XP, go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs.
For Windows 7, go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
Select your current graphics card driver/s.
For Windows XP, select Add/Remove.
3.
4.
For Windows 7, select Uninstall.
5.
Turn off your computer.
5-1
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
5.1.3
Installing two CrossFireX™
graphics cards
The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard
layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same.
1.
2.
Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics
cards.
Insert the two graphics card into the
PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard
has more than two PCIEX16 slots,
refer to Chapter 2 in this user manual
for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots
recommended for multi-graphics card
installation.
3.
Ensure that the cards are properly
seated on the slots.
4.
Align and firmly insert the CrossFireX
bridge connector to the goldfingers on
each graphics card. Ensure that the
connector is firmly in place.
goldfingers
CrossFireX bridge
(bundled with
graphics cards)
5.
6.
Connect two independent auxiliary power
sources from the power supply to the two
graphics cards separately.
Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the
graphics card.
5-2
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
5.1.4
Installing the device drivers
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device
drivers.
Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the AMD® CrossFireX™
technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com).
5.1.5
Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™
technology
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the CrossFireX™ feature
through the AMD Catalyst™ Control Center in Windows environment.
Launching the AMD VISION Engine Control Center
To launch the AMD VISION Engine Control Center:
1.
Right-click on the Windows® desktop and select
AMD VISION Engine Control Center. You can
also right-click the AMD icon in the Windows
notificAMDon area and select Vision Engine
Control
Center.
2.
The VISION Engine Control Center
Setup Assistant appears when the
system detects the existance of multi-
graphics cards. Click Go to continue
to the VISION Engine Control Center
Advanced View window.
Enabling Dual CrossFireX
technology
1.
In the Catalyst Control Center window,
click Graphics Settings > Performance
> AMD CrossFireXTM Configuration.
2
2.
From the Graphics Adapter list, select the
graphics card to act as the display GPU.
3
3.
4.
Select Enable CrossFireXTM
.
1
Click Apply, and then click OK to exit the
window.
4
5-3
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
5.2
NVIDIA® SLI™ technology
The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology that
allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the
installation procedures in this section.
5.2.1
Requirements
•
In SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®
certified.
•
•
Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download
the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power
required by your system. See Chapter 2 for details.
•
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.
•
Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified graphics
card and supported 3D application list.
5.2.2
Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards
The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard
layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same.
1.
2.
Prepare two SLI-ready graphics cards.
Insert the two graphics card into the
PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard
has more than two PCIEX16 slots,
refer to Chapter 2 in this user manual
for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots
recommended for multi-graphics card
installation.
3.
Ensure that the cards are properly seated
on the slots.
5-4
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
4.
5.
6.
Align and firmly insert the SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics
card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place.
Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two
graphics cards separately.
Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card.
SLI bridge
Goldfingers
5.2.3
Installing the device drivers
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device
drivers.
Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology.
Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).
5.2.4
Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the SLI feature in NVIDIA®
Control Panel under the Windows® 7™ operating system.
Launching the NVIDIA Control Panel
You can launch the NVIDIA Control Panel by the following two methods.
A.
Right click on the empty space of the Windows® desktop
and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears (See Step B5).
5-5
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
B1. If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step
(A), select Personalize.
B2. From the Personalization window,
select Display Settings.
B3. From the Display Settings dialog box,
click Advanced Settings.
5-6
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
B4. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab, and
then click Start the NVIDIA Control
Panel.
B5. The NVIDIA Control Panel window
appears.
Enabling SLI settings
From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select
Set SLI Configuration. Click Enable SLI
and set the display for viewing SLI rendered
content. When done, click Apply.
5-7
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
5.3
LucidLogix Virtu MVP
LucidLogix Virtu MVP allows your computer’s VGA output and discrete graphic cards
to perform better, respond faster and process media files smoother within a low power
environment. Its GPU virtualization assigns tasks to the best available graphic source while
the newly-designed Virtual Vsync gives you a smoother gaming experience.
•
•
LucidLogix Virtu MVP supports Windows7® operating systems.
Intel® Quick Sync Video feature is supported by the 3rd/2nd generation Intel®
Core™ processor family.
•
iGPU Multi-Monitor support option must be enabled in BIOS and install
both Intel® Graphics Accelerator, and graphics card driver before installing
LucidLogix Virtu MVP from ASUS support DVD. Refer to 3.5.4 System
Configuration for details.
•
•
•
Hyperformance® and Virtual Sync are enabled when using more than one
discrete GPU at the same time.
Supports NVIDIA® GF4xx/5xx series and AMD® HD5xxx/6xxx series graphic
cards.
We do not recommended to use LucidLogix Virtu MVP under RAID mode.
5.3.1
Installing LucidLogix Virtu MVP
To install LucidLogix Virtu MVP:
1. Insert the support DVD in the optical drive. The ASUS Support Wizard appears if your
computer has enabled the Autorun feature.
2. Click the Utilites tab, then click LucidLogix Virtu MVP Software.
3. Follow the succeeding onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
After you successfully installed the LucidLogix Virtu MVP, the LucidLogix Virtu MVP icon
appears in the notification area.
5-8
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
5.3.2
Setting up your display
LucidLogix Virtu MVP solution comes with two distinct modes that allows you to enjoy better
graphics either from your built-in video output (i-Mode) or from a discrete graphics card
(d-Mode).
i-Mode
To use LucidLogix Virtu MVP in i-Mode, the display must be connected to the onboard video
output.
Ensure to set the Primary Display to iGPU in BIOS to activate i-Mode support.
d-Mode
To use LucidLogix Virtu MVP in d-Mode, the display must be connected to the installed
graphics card.
•
•
Ensure to set the Primary Display to PCIE or PCIE/PCI in BIOS to enable
d-Mode support.
d-Mode is recommended for an enhanced 3D gaming performance.
d-Mode (VGA output from
discrete graphics card)
i-Mode (VGA output
from motherboard)
The motherboard’s IO ports and discrete graphic card is for reference only and may vary in
different models.
5-9
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
5.3.3
Configuring LucidLogix Virtu MVP
Launch the Virtu MVP Control Panel to allow you to configure the main features, adjust the
performance settings and select applications for graphical virtualization.
To open the control panel, right-click LucidLogix Virtu MVP icon in the notification area and
select Open Virtu MVP Control Panel.
LucidLogix Virtu MVP is automatically activated when your system is powered on. Select
Remove from system tray if you want to remove LucidLogix Virtu MVP icon from the
notification area.
Main
Allows you to turn ON/OFF the GPU virtualization. Also from the Main tab, you can set to
show or hide the In-Game icon.
Click to turn ON/OFF the LucidLogix Virtu MVP
Click to restore to default
settings
Tick to show icon
in system tray
Select display
option for In-Game
icon
5-10
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
Performance
Allows you to turn ON/OFF the Hyperformance® or Virtual Vsync function.
Click to turn
Hyperformance®
ON or OFF
Click to turn
Virtual Vsync
ON or OFF
5-11
ASUS SABERTOOTH Z77
Applications
Allows you to select applications for graphic virtualization.
Click to select a program to run by
discrete card, iGPU, or Hyperformance®
Click to add, edit, or remove programs
See the descriptions of these columns below:
•
•
•
D column allows you to run applications with the discrete graphic card. Select D to
enable 3D graphical performance for that application.
I column allows to run applications with iGPU. Select I for applications with media
extensive performance.
H column allows you to run applications with Hyperformance®. Tick H to enhance
graphical performance for that application.
Actual graphical performance varies with the application used and graphics card installed.
5-12
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
Appendices
Appendices
Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
•
•
This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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.
IC: Canadian Compliance Statement
Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specifications. This device complies with RSS
210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian
interference-causing equipment regulations.
This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Cut appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le
matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence d’Industrie Canada. Le
fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :
(1) cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences et
(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence, y compris celles susceptibles de provoquer
un fonctionnement non souhaité de l’appareil.
A-1
ASUS P8Z77-V DELUXE
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.
VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement
VCCI Class B Statement
KC: Korea Warning Statement
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at
ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.
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.
A-2
Appendices
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
Address
Telephone
Fax
E-mail
Web site
15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
+886-2-2894-3447
+886-2-2890-7798
www.asus.com.tw
Technical Support
Telephone
Online support
+86-21-38429911
support.asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address
Telephone
Fax
800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
+1-812-282-3777
+1-510-608-4555
usa.asus.com
Web site
Technical Support
Telephone
Support fax
+1-812-282-2787
+1-812-284-0883
support.asus.com
Online support
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
Address
Fax
Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany
+49-2102-959911
Web site
Online contact
www.asus.de
www.asus.de/sales
Technical Support
Telephone
Support Fax
+49-1805-010923*
+49-2102-9599-11
support.asus.com
Online support
* EUR 0.14/minute from a German fixed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.
A-3
ASUS P8Z77-V DELUXE
A-4
Appendices
|
