Asus Computer Hardware Z77 User Manual

SABERTOOTH  
Z77  
Contents  
iii  
Contents  
iv  
Contents  
Intel® 2012 Desktop responsiveness technologies ...................4-33  
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®..................................4-45  
AMD® CrossFireX™ technology ...............................................................5-1  
Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology.............................5-3  
Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology .....................................5-5  
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  
 
2.2  
Motherboard overview  
2.2.1  
Motherboard layout  
Refer to 2.2.8 Internal connectors and 2.3.11 Rear panel connection for more  
information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.  
2-2  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
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  
</