Asus Computer Hardware Z7S WS User Manual

Z7S WS  
 
Contents  
iii  
 
Contents  
iv  
Contents  
v
Contents  
vi  
Notices  
Federal.Communications.Commission.Statement  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions:  
This device may not cause harmful interference, and  
This device must accept any interference received including interference that  
may cause undesired operation.  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a  
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are  
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a  
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio  
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’  
s instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,  
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If  
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,  
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is  
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following  
measures:  
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the  
receiver is connected.  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is  
required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications  
to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could  
void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.  
Canadian.Department.of.Communications.Statement  
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions  
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the  
Canadian Department of Communications.  
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
vii  
 
Safety information  
Electrical.safety  
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the  
electrical outlet before relocating the system.  
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the  
power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are  
connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system  
before you add a device.  
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure  
that all power cables are unplugged.  
Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord.  
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.  
Make sure 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, make sure 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.  
This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical,  
electronic equipment and mercury-containing button cell battery) should not  
be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic  
products.  
viii  
 
About this guide  
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring  
the motherboard.  
How.this.guide.is.organized  
This user guide contains the following parts:  
•.  
Chapter.1:.Product.introduction  
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new  
technologies 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:.Powering.up  
This chapter describes the power up sequence and ways of shutting down  
the system.  
Chapter.4:.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.5:.Software.support  
This chapter provides instructions for setting up, creating, and configuring  
RAID sets using the available utilities.  
•.  
Appendix:.Reference.information  
This appendix includes additional information that you may refer to when  
configuring the motherboard.  
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.  
ix  
 
Conventions.used.in.this.guide  
To make sure 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 connected with a plus sign (+).  
Example: <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<D>  
Command  
Means that you must type the command exactly as  
shown.  
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:  
afudos /iZ7SWS.ROM  
x
Z7S WS specifications summary  
CPU.  
Dual LGA771 sockets for Dual-Core Intel® Xeon™  
processors 5100/5200 sequences and Quad-Core  
Intel® Xeon™ processor 5300/5400 sequence  
Supports Intel® Extended Memory 64Technology (EM64T),  
EIST, VT, XD, and TM/TM2  
Chipset  
MCH: Intel® Seaburg  
ICH: Intel® ESB2E  
System.Bus  
Memory  
1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz  
Quad-channel memory architecture  
6 x 240-pin FB-DIMM sockets support registered ECC  
fully buffered DDR2 800 / 667 / 533 memory modules  
with Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB chip)  
Supports 512 MB up to 24 GB system memory  
Supports memory sparing technology.  
Expansion.Slots  
Storage  
1 x PCI Express™ x1 MIO slot  
2 x PCI Express™ 2.0 x16 slots (x16 link)  
1 x PCI-X 133/100 MHz/64bit/3.3V slot  
1 x PCI 33 MHz/32-bit/5V slot  
1 x Universal PCI Express™ x16 slot (x8 link)  
Intel®.ESB2E.ICH  
-
-
-
1 x Ultra DMA 100/66/33 devices  
6 x SATA II (3.0 Gb/s)  
Intel® Matrix Storage with RAID 0, 1, and 5 (S/W)  
configuration  
JMicron®.JMB363.SATA.controller  
-
2 x External SATA 3 Gb/s ports (SATA On-the-Go)  
-
Supports SATA RAID 0, 1, and JBOD configuration  
LAN  
2 x Marvell® 88E8056 Gigabit LAN controllers  
-
Supports teaming function  
High Definition audio  
Realtek® 888S 8-channel High-Definition Audio CODEC  
-
Supports Jack-Sensing, Multi-streaming, and Jack-  
Retasking Technology  
-
-
Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O  
ASUS Noise Filter  
IEEE.1394  
USB  
VIA 6308S controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports (one  
at midboard; one at back panel)  
Supports up to 8 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports (3 at mid-board, 5 at  
back panel)  
(continued on the next page)  
xi  
 
Z7S WS specifications summary  
AI.Lifestyle.Unique.  
Features  
ASUS.Workstation.Features:  
-
-
G.P. Diagnosis card  
ASUS SASsaby cards support (optional)  
ASUS.Quiet.Thermal.Solution:  
-
-
ASUS Fanless Design  
ASUS Q-Fan 2  
ASUS.EZ.DIY:  
-
-
-
-
ASUS Q-Connector  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
BIOS.features  
Rear.panel  
AMI BIOS, 8 Mb FWH, Green, PnP, DMI2.0a, ACPI 2.0a,  
SMBIOS 2.3, WfM2.0  
1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple)  
2 x External Serial ATA port  
5 x USB 2.0 ports  
1 x IEEE 1394a  
2 x LAN (RJ-45) ports  
Internal.connectors  
1 x Floppy disk drive connector  
1 x IDE connector  
6 x Serial ATA connectors  
1 x Hard disk activity LED connector  
1 x USB header supports two additional USB ports  
1 x USB connector  
1 x Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM2)  
1 x Power supply SMBus connector  
1 x 24-pin ATX power connector  
1 x 8-pin ATX +12 V power connector  
1 x 4-pin +12V power connector  
1 x System panel connector (20-pin PANEL1)  
2 x CPU fan connector with PWM control  
4 x Chassis fan conectors with Q-fan 2 control  
1 x FB DIMM fan connector  
1 x Power fan connector  
1 x IEEE1394a connector  
1 x COM connector  
1 x TPM connector  
1 x Chassis intrusion connector  
Power.requirement  
SSI power supply (with 24-pin/8-pin/4-pin 12V plugs)  
for LGA771-socket Intel® Xeon processors  
(continued on the next page)  
xii  
Z7S WS specifications summary  
Support.DVD.contents  
Drivers  
ASUS PC Probe II  
ASUS Update Utility  
ASUS AI Suite  
Anti-virus software  
Adobe Acrobat Reader  
ASUS Flash Utility under DOS  
Manageability  
Other.Features  
WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE, AI NET 2, Chassis  
Intrusion, BIOS flash utility under DOS  
ASUS AI Booster utility  
ASUS MyLogo 2  
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)  
Multi-language BIOS  
Form.factor  
CEB form factor: 12 in x 10.5 in (30.5 cm x 26.67 cm)  
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
xiii  
xiv  
This chapter describes the motherboard  
features and the new technologies it supports.  
Chapter 1:  
Product  
introduction  
1
 
Chapter summary  
1
1.1.  
1.2.  
1.3.  
Welcome!....................................................................................... 1-1  
Package.contents.......................................................................... 1-1  
Special.features............................................................................. 1-2  
ASUS Z7S WS  
1.1  
Welcome!  
Thank you for buying an ASUS® Z7S WS series motherboard!  
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it  
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!  
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the  
items in your package with the list below.  
1.2  
Package contents  
Check your motherboard package for the following items.  
Motherboard  
I/O modules  
ASUS Z7S WS  
1 x �-port USB module  
1 x 1-port I��� 1a module  
1 x COM port module  
Cables  
Serial ATA signal cable for 6 devices  
Serial ATA power cable for 6 devices  
1 x Ultra DMA 100/66/�� cable  
1 x Floppy disk drive cable  
I/O shield  
Accessories  
1 x ASUS Q-Connector Kit (USB, 1, system  
panel; Retail version only)  
� x CPU Fan Plate  
G.P. Diagnosis Card (Retail version only)  
MIO Audio Card (Retail version only)  
ASUS motherboard support DVD  
User guide  
Application DVD  
Documentation  
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
1-1  
 
1.3  
Special features  
1.3.1.  
Product.highlights  
Latest.processor.technology..  
The motherboard comes with two LGA-771 sockets that support Dual-Core and  
Quad-Core Intel® Xeon™ processors with 1600/1333/1066 MHz Front Side Bus  
(FSB). Dual-core processors contain two physical CPU cores to meet demands  
for more powerful processing. Intel® Xeon™ processors incorporate the Intel  
® Extended Memory 64-bit Technology, enabling the support for 64-bit operation  
system, such as 64-bit Windows® and Linux. See page 2-9 for details.  
Intel®.Seaburg.and.Intel®.ESB2E.chipset..  
The Intel® Seaburg Memory Controller Hub (MCH) and the Intel® ESB2E provide  
the vital interfaces for the motherboard. The MCH provides two channels for  
processor, quad-channel FB-DIMM memory support, and two PCI Express 2.0  
interfaces. The Intel® ESB2E is a new generation server class I/O controller hub  
that provides the interface for PCI 2.3, PCI Express, and PCIX.  
Intel®.EM64T..  
The motherboard supports Intel processors with the Intel® EM64T (Extended  
Memory 64 Technology). The Intel® EM64T feature allows your computer to run on  
64-bit operating systems and access larger amounts of system memory for faster  
and more efficient computing.  
Enhanced.Intel.SpeedStep®.Technology.(EIST)..  
The Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST) intelligently manages the  
CPU resources by automatically adjusting the CPU voltage and core frequency  
depending on the CPU loading and system speed or power requirement.  
FB-DIMM.memory.support  
This motherboard supports fully buffered DIMMs (FB-DIMMs), the latest memory  
solution that extends memory capacity and provide high-speed, high-density  
system memory peformance. FB-DIMMs use Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB)  
chips that transmit signals between the memory modules and controllers with  
improved signal integrity and reduced errors. See page 2-14 for details.  
PCIe.2.0..  
This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 device for twice the current speed  
and bandwidth. This enhances system performance while still providing backward  
compatibility to PCIe 1.0 devices. See page 2-21 for details.  
1-2  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
Dual.Gigabit.LAN.solution..  
The integrated dual Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network gateway  
for managing traffic between two separate networks. This capability ensures rapid  
transfer of data from WAN to LAN without any added arbitration or latency. See  
page 2-27 for details.  
Serial.ATA.3.0.Gb/s.technology.and.SATA-On-The-Go..  
.
This motherboard supports the next-generation hard drives based on the Serial ATA  
(SATA) 3Gb/s storage specification, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling  
the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and saves. The external SATA port  
located at the back I/O provides smart setup and hot-plug functions. Easily backup  
photos, videos and other entertainment contents to external devices. See pages  
2-27 and 2-31 for details.  
IEEE.1394a.support..  
.
The IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video  
appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals  
& other PC portable devices. See page 2-27 for details.  
G.P..Diagnosis.card..  
Bundled with Z7S WS motherboard (retail version), the G.P. Diagnosis card assists  
users in system checking by effortlessly and quickly providing precise system  
checks right after they switch on their PCs. See page 2-40 for details.  
ASUS.SASsaby.cards.support..  
.
This motherboard is fully compatible with ASUS SASsaby cards (optional). Faster,  
safer and more stable, SAS will provide users with a better choice for storage  
expansion and upgrade needs. See page 2-22 for details.  
S/PDIF.digital.sound.ready..  
.
This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio  
systems via coaxial and optical S/PDIF-out (SONY-PHILIPS Digital Interface) jacks.  
It allows to transfer digital audio without converting to analog format and keeps the  
best signal quality. See page 2-28 for details.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
1-3  
Temperature,.fan,.and.voltage.monitoring  
The CPU temperature is monitored by the ASIC WINBOND C.S W83793G chip  
to prevent overheating and damage. The system fan rotations per minute (RPM)  
is monitored for timely failure detection. The chip monitors the voltage levels to  
ensure stable supply of current for critical components. See page 4-28 for details.  
1.3.2.  
Innovative.ASUS.features  
CrashFree.BIOS.3..  
This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the support CD in  
case when the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protection eliminates the  
need to buy a replacement ROM chip. See page 4-8 for details.  
ASUS.MemCool.FB-DIMM.Fan.Kit.(optional)  
With this optional fan kit, the platform gets optimal performance and the best  
possible FB-DIMM thermal environment. See page 2-18 for details.  
1-4  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
This chapter lists the hardware setup  
procedures that you have to perform  
when installing system components. It  
includes description of the jumpers and  
connectors on the motherboard.  
Chapter 2: Hardware  
2
information  
 
Chapter summary  
2
2.1.  
2.2.  
2.3.  
2.4.  
2.5.  
2.6.  
2.7.  
2.8.  
2.9.  
Before.you.proceed...................................................................... 2-1  
Motherboard.overview.................................................................. 2-2  
Central.Processing.Unit.(CPU).................................................... 2-9  
System.memory.......................................................................... 2-14  
Expansion.slots........................................................................... 2-20  
Jumpers....................................................................................... 2-23  
Switches....................................................................................... 2-25  
Audio.card.installation............................................................... 2-26  
Connectors.................................................................................. 2-27  
2.10. G.P..Diagnosis.card.installation................................................. 2-40  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2.1  
Before you proceed  
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change  
any motherboard settings.  
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any  
component.  
Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal  
object, such as the power supply case, before handling components 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 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, and/or  
components.  
Onboard.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  
Z7S WS  
®
SB_PWR  
ON  
OFF  
Standby  
Power  
Powered  
Off  
Z7S WS Onboard LED  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-1  
 
2.2  
Motherboard overview  
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to  
ensure that the motherboard fits into it.  
To optimize the motherboard features, we highly recommend that you install it in an  
SSI CEB 1.1 compliant chassis.  
Make sure to unplug the chassis power cord before installing or removing  
the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage  
motherboard components!  
2.2.1.  
Placement.direction  
When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the  
correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis  
as indicated in the image below.  
2.2.2.  
Screw.holes  
Place eight (8) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard  
to the chassis.  
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.  
Place.this.side.towards.  
the.rear.of.the.chassis  
Z7S WS  
®
2-2  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.2.3.  
Support.kits.for.the.motherboard  
For additional protection from motherboard breakage due to the weight of the CPU  
heatsinks, your motherboard package comes with CEK springs that you can use as  
weight support. Install the CEK springs before installing the motherboard.  
If your chassis is SSI CEB 1.1 compliant, we recommend that you use the CEK  
springs; otherwise, use the support plates kit.  
Each CEK spring has four hooks to match the  
designated holes around the CPU area.  
Hook  
To install the CEK spring:  
1.  
Locate the CPU heatsink holes on  
the motherboard.  
Socket.for.CPU1  
Socket.for.CPU0  
Heatsink.hole  
2.  
Position the CEK spring underneath  
the motherboard, then match the  
CEK spring hooks to the CPU0  
heatsink holes.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-3  
 
3.  
Press the upper spring hooks  
inward, then insert to the upper  
CPU heatsink holes until they snap  
in place.  
4.  
Press the lower spring clips inward,  
then insert to the lower CPU  
heatsink holes until they snap in  
place.  
5.  
If you installed a second CPU,  
repeat steps 2 to 4 to install the  
CEK spring to the CPU1 heatsink  
holes.  
The CEK springs appear as shown  
when installed.  
CEK.spring.screw.hole  
2-4  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
6.  
Before installing the motherboard  
into the chassis, locate the standoffs  
that should match the eight (8) CEK  
spring screw holes.  
Standoffs.for.CPU0  
Standoffs.for.CPU1  
7.  
Install the motherboard with the  
external I/O ports toward the chassis  
rear panel. The CPU sockets should  
be right on top of their respective  
standoffs.  
Socket.for.CPU1 Socket.for.CPU0  
Make sure that the standoffs perfectly match the CEK spring screw holes;  
otherwise, you can not install the CPU heatsinks properly.  
8.  
Secure the motherboard with eight (8) screws. Refer to section 2.2.2.Screw.  
holes for illustration.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-5  
2.2.4.  
Motherboard.layout  
26.7cm (10.5in)  
EATXPWR  
EATX12V  
KB_USB12  
USB34  
CPU0  
IE1394_1  
ESATA1  
ESATA2  
USB5  
Intel®  
Seaburg  
CPU1  
LAN12  
CPU0_FAN  
CPU1_FAN  
PSUSMB1  
Z7S WS  
PRI_IDE  
88E8056  
PCIEX1_MIO1  
®
88E8056  
PCIEX16_1  
ATX  
12V  
JMB363  
PCIX_1  
Intel®  
VIA  
ESB2E  
PCIEX16_2  
VT6308S  
SATA12  
SATA34  
SATA56  
PCI1  
SB_PWR1  
8Mb  
Super  
I/O  
FWH  
CR2032 3V  
Lithium Cell  
CMOS Power  
PCIEX16_3  
PCIX_SPEED1  
CLRTC  
HM_SW1  
AP_TRIGGER  
CHASSIS  
USB6  
IE1394_2  
COM1  
USB78  
FLOPPY1  
CHA_FAN1  
CHA_FAN2  
CHA_FAN3  
CHA_FAN4  
PANEL1  
TPM  
2.2.5.  
Audio.card.layout  
2-6  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.2.6.  
Layout.contents  
Slots/Socket  
Page  
2-9  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
CPU sockets  
FB-DIMM sockets  
2-14  
2-21  
2-21  
2-21  
2-22  
PCI Express x1 MIO slot  
PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots (red)  
Universal PCI Express x16 slot (white)  
PCI/PCI-X slots  
Jumpers  
Page  
2-23  
2-24  
1.  
2.  
Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC1)  
PCI-X speed setting (3-pin PCIX_SPEED1)  
Switches  
Page  
Fan Switches  
2-25  
Rear.panel.connectors  
Page  
2-27  
2-27  
2-27  
2-27  
2-27  
2-27  
2-27  
2-27  
2-28  
2-28  
2-28  
2-28  
2-28  
2-28  
2-28  
2-28  
1.  
PS/2 keyboard port (purple)  
2.  
USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2  
USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4  
IEEE 1394a port  
3.  
4.  
5.  
External SATA port 1  
6.  
External SATA port 2  
7.  
USB 2.0 port 5  
8.  
LAN (RJ-45) ports 1 and 2  
Line In Port (light blue)  
Line Out port (lime)  
9.  
10.  
11.  
12.  
13.  
14.  
15.  
16.  
Microphone port (pink)  
Center/Subwoofer port (orange)  
Rear Speaker Out port (black)  
Side Speaker Out port (gray)  
Optical S/PDIF Out port  
Coaxial S/PDIF Out port  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-7  
 
Internal.connectors  
Page  
2-29  
2-30  
2-31  
2-32  
2-33  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY1)  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE1)  
Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6)  
USB connectors (4-pin USB6, 10-1 pin USB78)  
Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM1)  
CPU and system fan connectors (4-pin SPS_FAN1, FBD_FAN1,  
CPU0_FAN, CPU1_FAN, CHA_FAN1-4)  
2-33  
7.  
8.  
9.  
Power supply SMBus connector (5-pin PSUSMB1)  
Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)  
2-34  
2-34  
SSI power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EAX12V, 4-pin  
ATX12V)  
2-35  
10.  
11.  
12.  
13.  
14.  
TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) [Optional]  
System panel connector (20-1 pin PANEL)  
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)  
Q-Connector (system panel)  
2-36  
2-37  
2-38  
2-38  
2-39  
2-8  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.3  
Central Processing Unit (CPU)  
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA771 socket designed for the  
Intel® Xeon® Quad/Dual Core processor.  
Your boxed Intel® Xeon® LGA771 processor package should come with  
installation instructions for the CPU and heatsink. If the instructions in this  
section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter.  
Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure 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 LGA771 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.  
2.3.1.  
Installing.the.CPU  
To install a CPU:  
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.  
CPU0  
CPU1  
Z7S WS  
®
Z7S WS CPU LGA771  
Before installing the CPU, make sure that the socket box is facing towards you  
and the load lever is on your left.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-9  
 
2.  
Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is  
released from the retention tab.  
Retention.tab  
A
PnP.cap  
Load.lever  
B
This.side.of.the.socket.box.  
should.face.you.  
To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you  
are installing a CPU.  
3.  
Lift the load lever in the direction of  
the arrow to a 135º angle.  
4.  
Lift the load plate with your  
thumb and forefinger to a 100º  
angle (A), then push the PnP  
cap from the load plate window  
to remove (B).  
B
A
Load.plate  
5.  
Position the CPU over  
the socket, making sure  
that the gold triangle  
is on the bottom-left  
corner of the socket.  
The socket alignment  
Alignment.key  
key should fit into the  
CPU notch.  
Gold.triangle.mark  
2-10  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
6.  
Close the load plate (A), then  
push the load lever (B) until it  
snaps into the retention tab.  
A
B
The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the  
socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-11  
2.3.2.  
Installing.the.CPU.heatsink.and.fan  
The Intel® Xeon™ processors require an Intel certified heatsink and fan assembly  
to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.  
When you buy a boxed Intel CPU, the package includes the heatsink, fan,  
retention brackets, screws, thermal grease, installation manual, and other items  
that are necessary for CPU installation.  
Make sure that you have applied the thermal grease to the top of the CPU  
before installing the heatsink and fan.  
Refer to the installation manual that came with the CPU package for details  
on heatsink/fan assembly and installation.  
CPU heatsink (bottom view)  
CPU heatsink (top view)  
Heatsink.screw  
To install the CPU heatsink and fan:  
1.  
Place the heatsink on top of the  
installed CPU, making sure that the  
four screws on the heatsink align  
with the nuts on the support plate.  
2-12  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.  
Use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten  
the four heatsink screws in a  
diagonal sequence.  
3.  
Connect the fan cable to the 4-pin connector labeled CPU0_FAN.  
CPU0_FAN  
PWM Control  
FAN Speed  
FAN Power  
GND  
Z7S WS  
CPU0_FAN  
CPU1_FAN  
®
CPU1_FAN  
PWM Control  
FAN Speed  
FAN Power  
GND  
Z7S WS CPU fan connectors  
DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan cable! Hardware monitoring errors may  
occur if you fail to plug this connector.  
4.  
Repeat steps 1 to 3 to install the other heatsink if you have installed a second  
CPU, then connect the fan cable to the 4-pin connector labeled CPU1_FAN.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-13  
2.4  
System memory  
2.4.1.  
Overview  
The motherboard comes with six fully-buffered DIMM (FB-DIMM) sockets to  
support 240-pin FB-DIMM modules. An FB-DIMM module has a different pin-out  
from DDR2 DIMMs so you cannot install DDR2 DIMMs on an FB-DIMM socket.  
Note that an FB-DIMM socket has an Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) chip that  
allows memory-to-CPU connection at gigabit speed.  
The figure illustrates the location of the FB-DIMM sockets:  
Z7S WS  
®
Z7S WS 240-pin DDR2 FB-DIMM sockets  
2.4.2  
Memory configurations  
You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB registered ECC  
FB-DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.  
For optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules  
from the same vendor. Refer to the Qualified Vendors List on the ASUS  
web site.  
This motherboard does not support memory modules made up of 128 Mb  
chips or double-rank x16 memory modules.  
If you are installing only one memory module, install into the white socket  
labeled DIMM_00. Installing into any other socket will not work.  
2-14  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
Rank.population  
MCH  
Channel  
Ch:0  
Ch:1  
Ch:2 Ch:3  
DIMM.installation.reference.table  
No..of.DIMMs Slot(s).to.use  
1
DIMM_00  
DIMM_00 + DIMM_01, or  
DIMM_00 + DIMM_10  
2
DIMM_00 + DIMM_10 + DIMM_20 + DIMM_30, or  
DIMM_00 + DIMM_01 + DIMM_10 + DIMM_11  
4
6
DIMM_00 + DIMM_01 + DIMM_10 + DIMM_11 +  
DIMM_20 + DIMM_30  
DIMMs in pair means two DIMMs with the same configuration.  
For better performance, same configuration DIMMs should be installed on  
the same slot number for each channel. For example, you may install the  
same type of DIMMs in DIMM_00, DIMM_10, DIMM_20, and DIMM_30.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-15  
2.4.3.  
Memory.sparing.technology  
The Intel® Seaburg chipset supports the memory sparing technology. Refer to the  
below sections:  
Memory.Sparing.:.  
At configuration time, a DIMM rank is set aside to replace a defective DIMM rank.  
When the error rate for a failing DIMM rank reaches a pre-determined threshold,  
the memory sparing function will issue an interrupt and initiate a spare copy. At the  
completion of the copy, the failing DIMM rank is disabled and the “spared” DIMM  
rank will be used in its place.  
The DIMM rank with the largest size will be assigned as spare rank. Data  
can only be copied from a smaller sized rank to a larger sized one.  
A DIMM can contain only one or two ranks. To support sparing function, a  
DIMM channel should contain at least two ranks.  
When sparing function is enabled, the usable memory size will reduce then  
size of the spare ranks.  
2-16  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.4.4.  
Installing.a.DIMM  
Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or  
other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both  
the motherboard and the components.  
3
To install a DIMM:  
1.  
2.  
Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing  
the retaining clips outward.  
1
2
1
Align a DIMM on the socket  
such that the notch on the DIMM  
matches the break on the socket.  
3.  
Firmly insert the DIMM into the  
socket until the retaining clips  
snap back in place and the DIMM  
is properly seated.  
DDR2.FB-DIMM.notch  
A FB-DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction. Do not  
force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.  
The FB-DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. DO NOT install DDR  
DIMMs to the FB-DIMM sockets.  
2.4.5.  
Removing.a.DIMM  
To remove a DIMM:  
1. Simultaneously press the retaining  
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.  
2
Support the DIMM lightly with  
your fingers when pressing the  
retaining clips. The DIMM might  
get damaged when it flips out  
with extra force.  
1
1
2.  
Remove the DIMM from the socket.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-17  
 
2.4.6.  
Installing.the.MemCool.FB-DIMM.fan.(optional)  
The FB-DIMMs generate heat during continued operation. To ensure optimum  
thermal condition and performance, install the optional MemCool FB-DIMM fan.  
To install the optional FB-DIMM fan:  
1.  
Locate the three FB-DIMM fan holes  
on the motherboard.  
2.  
Disengage the fan top cover from  
the fan base. You can do this by  
firmly gripping the top cover by the  
clamps to release the hooks, then  
pull up the top cover carefully until it  
separates from the fan base.  
Top.cover.  
clamp  
Top.cover.  
hook  
DO NOT remove the fan from the  
fan base.  
Fan.  
base  
3.  
Position the fan base over the  
DIMMs, and insert the fan base legs  
into the FB-DIMM holes until the  
legs are securely in place.  
2-18  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
4.  
Position top cover over the fan  
base. Insert the top cover legs into  
the slot on the fan base legs.  
Push down carefully until the legs  
are securely in place and the top  
cover hooks snap in place.  
Make sure the cables pass  
through the notch on the fan base  
as shown.  
5.  
Connect the fan cable to the 4-pin  
connector labeled FBD_FAN1.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-19  
2.5  
Expansion slots  
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections  
describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.  
Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion  
cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard  
components.  
2.5.1.  
Installing.an.expansion.card  
To install an expansion card:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with  
it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.  
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a  
chassis).  
Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw  
for later use.  
Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is  
completely seated on the slot.  
5.  
6.  
Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.  
Replace the system cover.  
2.5.2  
Configuring an expansion card  
After installing the expansion card, configure the it by adjusting the software  
settings.  
1.  
Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See  
Chapter 4 for information on BIOS setup.  
2.  
3.  
Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.  
Install the software drivers for the expansion card.  
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share  
IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will  
arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card  
inoperable.  
2-20  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.5.3.  
Interrupt.assignments  
IRQ  
0
Priority  
Standard.function  
1
2
System timer  
1
Keyboard controller  
2
Re-direct to IRQ#9  
3
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
3
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
Communications port (COM1)*  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
Floppy disk controller  
4
5
6
7
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
System CMOS/Real Time Clock  
8
9
4
5
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
PS/2 compatible mouse port*  
Numeric data processor  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
6
7
8
9
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
10  
* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.  
2.5.4..  
PCI.Express.x1.MIO.slot  
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 audio cards, network cards, SCSI  
cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. This slot  
also supports the MIO (Media Input Output) function. Install the bundled audio  
card on this slot only, otherwise the audio card may not work properly. Refer to the  
figure on the next page for the location of the slot.  
2.5.5.  
PCI.Express.2.0.x16.slots.(red)  
This motherboard has two PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots that support PCI Express  
2.0 x16 graphic cards complying with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the  
figure on the next page for the location of the slots.  
2.5.6.  
Universal.PCI.Express.x16.slot.(white)  
This motherboard also supports one Universal PCI Express x16 slot with a  
maximum speed of x8 link. The operating frequency of this slot change depending  
on the type of PCI Express card you install. Refer to the figure on the next page for  
the location of the slot.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-21  
 
2.5.7.  
PCI/PCI-X.slots  
The PCI/PCI-X slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and  
other cards that comply with PCI 2.3 and PCI-X 1.0 specifications. Refer to the  
figure below for the location of the slots.  
Universal.PCIe.x16_3.slot.(white,[email protected])  
PCI_1.slot  
PCIe.2.0.x16_2.slot.(red,[email protected])  
PCIX_1.slot  
PCIe.2.0.x16_1.slot.(red,[email protected])  
PCIe.x1_1.MIO.slot  
This motherboard supports the ASUS SASsaby cards (optional) for SAS Hard  
disk drive support. For SASsaby M, install the card to the two PCIe 2.0 x16 slots  
(red) or the universal PCIe x16 slot (white). For SASsaby 1064E, install the card  
to the universal PCIe x16 slot (white) only.  
2-22  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.6  
Jumpers  
1.. Clear.RTC.RAM.(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. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.  
2. 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. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.  
4. 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.  
Z7S WS  
®
CLRTC  
1
2
2
3
Normal  
Clear RTC  
(Default)  
Z7S WS Clear RTC RAM  
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 limitation, AC power off is required prior using C.P.R.  
function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the  
power cord before reboot the system.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-23  
 
2.. PCI-X.Speed.setting.(3-pin.PCIX_SPEED1)  
This jumper allows you to set the PCI-X slot’s maximum frequency capability.  
The jumper cap on pins 1-2: 133 MHz capability for the PCI-X slot.  
The jumper cap on pins 2-3: 100 MHz capability for the PCI-X slot.  
Z7S WS  
®
PCIX_SPEED1  
1
2
2
3
133MHz  
100MHz  
(Default)  
Z7S WS PCIX speed setting  
2-24  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.7  
Switches  
Fan.switches.(HM_SW1)  
This switch allows you to set up the fan connections. Set the switch to ON if you  
are using a 4-pin fan (PWM fan) cable plug, or to OFF if you are using a 3-pin (PC  
fan) plug.  
ON:4-PIN FAN  
HM_SW1  
OFF:3-PIN FAN  
ON  
SW1_CPU0_FAN  
SW2_CPU1_FAN  
SW3_CHA_FAN1  
SW4_CHA_FAN2  
SW5_CHA_FAN3  
SW6_CHA_FAN4  
SW7_SPS_FAN1  
SW8_x  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
ON  
OFF  
Z7S WS  
(Default)  
®
Z7S WS Fan switches  
If you use a 4-pin fan but set the Fan switch for a 3-pin fan, the fan you  
installed may not work.  
If you use a 3-pin fan but set the Fan switch for a 4-pin fan, the fan control  
will not work and the fan you installed will always run at full speed.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-25  
 
2.8  
Audio card installation  
1.  
Take out the Audio card from the  
package.  
2.  
Locate the PCI Express x1 MIO  
slot on the motherboard.  
3.  
Align the card connector with the  
slot and press firmly until the card  
sits on the slot completely.  
4.  
The photo below shows the  
audio card installed on the  
motherboard.  
2-26  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.9  
Connectors  
2.9.1.  
Rear.panel.connectors  
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
1
16  
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1.. PS/2.keyboard.port.(purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.  
2.. USB.2.0.ports.1.and.2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports  
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
3.. USB.2.0.ports.3.and.4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports  
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
4.. IEEE1394a.port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed  
connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable  
devices.  
5.. External.SATA.port.1. This port connects to an external Serial ATA hard disk  
drive. To configure a RAID 0, 1, or JBOD set, install two external Serial ATA  
hard disk drives to this port and to external SATA port 2.  
6.. External.SATA.port.2. This port connect to an external Serial ATA hard disk  
drive. To configure a RAID 0, 1, or JBOD set, install two external Serial ATA  
hard disk drives to this port and to external SATA port 1.  
7.. USB.2.0.port.5. This 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) port is available for  
connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
8.. LAN.(RJ-45).port.1.and.2. Supported by Marvell® Gigabit LAN controller,  
these ports allow Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through  
a network hub. Refer to the table on the next page for the LAN port LED  
indications.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-27  
 
LAN.port.LED.indications  
ACT/LINK. SPEED.  
LED LED  
Activity/Link.LED  
Speed.LED  
Status  
OFF  
Description  
Status  
Description  
No link  
Linked  
OFF  
10 Mbps connection  
ORANGE  
ORANGE 100 Mbps connection  
GREEN 1 Gbps connection  
LAN.port  
BLINKING Data activity  
9.. Line.In.port.(light.blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or  
other audio sources.  
10.. Line.Out.port.(lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In  
4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel configuration, the function of this port  
becomes Front Speaker Out.  
11.. Microphone.port.(pink). This port connects a microphone.  
12.. Center/Subwoofer.port.(orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer  
speakers.  
13... Rear.Speaker.Out.port.(black). This port connects the rear speakers in a  
4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio configuration.  
14.. Side.Speaker.Out.port.(gray). This port connects the side speakers in an  
8-channel audio configuration.  
Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in  
2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration.  
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration  
Headset.  
2-channel  
Port  
4-channel  
6-channel  
8-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 Ou  
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
Side Speaker Out  
Rear Speaker Out  
15.. Optical.S/PDIF.Out.port. This port connects an external audio output device  
via an optical S/PDIF cable.  
16.. Coaxial.S/PDIF.Out.port. This port connects an external audio output device  
via a coaxial S/PDIF cable.  
2-28  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.9.2.  
Internal.connectors  
1.. Floppy.disk.drive.connector.(34-1.pin.FLOPPY1)  
This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert  
one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the  
signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive.  
Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when  
using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.  
Z7S WS  
®
FLOPPY  
PIN 1  
NOTE: Orient the red markings on  
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
Z7S WS Floppy disk drive connector  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-29  
 
2.. IDE.connector.(40-1.pin.PRI_IDE)  
The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 100/66/33 signal cable.  
There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 100/66/33 signal cable:  
blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE  
connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device.  
PRI_IDE  
PIN 1  
NOTE: Orient the red markings  
(usually zigzag) on the IDE  
ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
Z7S WS  
®
Z7S WS IDE connector  
Mode.of.  
device(s)  
Drive jumper setting  
Cable.connector  
Single device  
Two devices  
Cable-Select or Master  
-
Black  
Black  
Master  
Slave  
Master  
Slave  
Cable-Select  
Gray  
Master  
Slave  
Black or gray  
Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the  
Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you  
connect the IDE cable.  
Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 100/66/33 IDE devices.  
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device  
jumpers have the same setting.  
2-30  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
3.. Serial.ATA.connectors.(7-pin.SATA1-6)  
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk  
drives.  
SATA2  
SATA1  
Z7S WS  
®
SATA3  
SATA4  
SATA6  
SATA5  
Z7S WS SATA connectors  
SATA 5-6 connectors support AHCI mode and RAID mode only. Make sure  
to install the AHCI driver or RAID driver in the bundled support DVD before  
connecting devices to SATA 5-6 connectors. Otherwise, the devices will not  
work.  
When using the connectors in Standard IDE mode, connect the primary  
(boot) hard disk drive to the SATA1 connector. Refer to the table below for  
the recommended SATA hard disk drive connections.  
These connectors are set to Standard IDE mode by default. In Standard  
IDE mode, you can connect Serial ATA boot/data hard drives to these  
connectors. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these  
connectors, set the Configure SATA as item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See  
section 4.3.6 Storage Configuration for details.  
Before creating a RAID set, refer to 5.4.3 Intel RAID configurations or the  
manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.  
Serial.ATA.hard.disk.drive.connection  
Connector  
SATA 1  
Color  
Red  
Red  
Red  
Red  
Setting  
Use  
Primary Master  
Secondary Master  
Primary Slave  
Secondary Slave  
Boot disk  
Boot/Data disk  
Data disk  
Data disk  
SATA 2  
SATA 3  
SATA 4  
right.angle.side  
Connect the right-angle side  
of SATA signal cable to SATA  
device. Or you may connect the  
right-angle side of SATA cable to  
the onboard SATA port to avoid  
mechanical conflict with huge  
graphics cards.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-31  
4.. USB.connectors.(4-pin.USB6,.10-1.pin.USB78)  
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to  
these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the  
system chassis. This USB connector complies with USB 2.0 specification that  
supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed.  
Z7S WS  
®
USB6  
USB78  
Z7S WS USB connectors  
The USB port module is purchased separately.  
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the  
motherboard!  
You can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and  
then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard.  
2-32  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
5.. Serial.port.connector.(10-1.pin.COM1)  
This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module  
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back  
of the system chassis.  
Z7S WS  
®
COM1  
Z7S WS Serial port connectors  
PIN1  
The serial port module is purchased separately.  
6.. CPU.and.system.fan.connectors.(4-pin.SPS_FAN1,.FBD_FAN1,.  
CPU0_FAN,.CPU1_FAN,.CHA_FAN1-4)  
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA ~ 740 mA (8.88 W max.)  
or a total of 3.15 A ~ 6.66 A (53.28 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables  
to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure 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!  
SPS_FAN1  
FBD_FAN1  
GND  
GND  
FAN Power  
FAN Speed  
PWM Control  
+12V  
FAN Speed  
+5V  
CPU0_FAN  
PWM Control  
FAN Speed  
FAN Power  
GND  
CPU1_FAN  
PWM Control  
FAN Speed  
FAN Power  
GND  
SPS_FAN1  
FBD_FAN1  
Z7S WS  
CPU0_FAN  
CPU1_FAN  
®
CHA_FAN1  
CHA_FAN2  
CHA_FAN3  
CHA_FAN4  
Z7S WS Fan connectors  
CHA_FAN1 CHA_FAN2 CHA_FAN3 CHA_FAN4  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-33  
7.. Power.supply.SMBus.connector.(5-pin.PSUSMB1)  
This connector is for the power supply SMB cable, if your power supply  
supports the SMBus function.  
PSUSMB1  
Z7S WS  
®
+3.3V  
GND  
NC  
SMBDAT  
SMBCLK  
PIN 1  
Z7S WS Power supply SMBus connector  
8.. Chassis.intrusion.connector.(4-1.pin.CHASSIS)  
This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch.  
Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this  
connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to  
this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal  
is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.  
By default, the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with  
a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the  
chassis intrusion detection feature.  
Z7S WS  
®
CHASSIS  
(Default)  
Z7S WS Chassis intrusion connector  
2-34  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
9.. SSI.power.connectors.(24-pin.EATXPWR,.8-pin.EATX12V,.4-pin.ATX12V)  
These connectors are for SSI 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.  
EATXPWR  
EATX12V  
24-PIN Power Connector  
8-PIN  
Z7S WS  
®
ATX12V  
GND  
+12V2  
GND  
+12V2  
Z7S WS ATX power connectors  
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 600 W.  
Do not forget to connect the 8-pin EATX12V power plug; otherwise, the  
system will not boot.  
If you install only one CPU on the CPU0 socket, you can connect only the  
EATXPWR and EATX12V power connectors to boot the system.  
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 high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with  
600W 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.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-35  
10.. TPM.connector.(20-1.pin.TPM).[Optional]  
This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which can  
securely store keys, digital certificates, passwords, and data. A TPM system  
also helps enhance network security, protects digital identities, and ensures  
platform integrity.  
Z7S WS  
®
Z7S WS SGPIO connector  
TPM  
2-36  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
11.. System.panel.connector.(20-pin.PANEL)  
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.  
The system panel connector is color-coded for easy connection.  
PLED  
SPEAKER  
Z7S WS  
PANEL  
®
IDE_LED  
RESET  
PWRSW  
* Requires an ATX power supply.  
Z7S WS System panel connector  
•.  
System.power.LED.(Green.3-pin.PLED)  
This 3-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.  
•.  
•.  
System.warning.speaker.(Orange.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.  
Hard.disk.drive.activity.LED.(Red.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.  
•.  
•.  
ATX.power.button/soft-off.button.(Green.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.(Blue.2-pin.RESET)  
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system  
reboot without turning off the system power.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-37  
12.. 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.  
AAFP  
HD-audio-compliant  
pin definition  
Legacy AC’97  
compliant definition  
Z7S WS Analog front panel 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.  
By default, this connector is set to [AC97]. If you want to connect an HD  
front panel audio module to this connector, set the Front.Panel.Support.  
Type item in the BIOS setup to [Azalia]. See section 4.4.4.Onboard.  
Devices Configuration for details.  
13.. Optical.drive.audio.connector.(4-pin.CD)  
These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources  
such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.  
CD  
Z7S WS Internal audio connector  
2-38  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
14.. Q-Connector.(system.panel)  
You can use ASUS Q-Connector to connect / disconnect chassis front panel  
cables by only a few steps. Directions below shows how to install ASUS Q-  
Connector.  
Step1.  
Connect correct front panel to ASUS Q-  
Connector first. You can refer to the marking  
on Q-Connector itself to know the detail pin  
definition.  
Step2.  
Properly install the ASUS Q-Connector to the  
System panel connctor.  
Step3.  
Front panel functions are enabled.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-39  
2.10 G.P. Diagnosis card installation  
2.10.1. G.P..Diagnosis.card.layout  
LED.0.and.1  
Power.Switch..Press.  
to.turn.ON.or.OFF.the.  
computer.  
Reset.Button..  
Press.to.restart.the.  
computer.  
Card.connector  
2.10.2. Installing.G.P..Diagnosis.card  
Make sure to turn off the power supply unit before instaling the diagnosis card to  
avoid electrical shock hazard.  
1.  
Locate the TPM.connector.(20-1.  
pin.TPM) on the motherboard (Refer  
to page 2-36 for exact connector  
location).  
2.  
With the LEDs of the diagnosis  
card facing to the DIMM sockets,  
align the card connector with the  
TPM connector and press firmly  
until the card sits on the connector  
completely.  
2-40  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
3.  
You may also install the G.P.  
Diagnosis card via a bundled 90-  
degree TPM adaptor for a more  
flexible application.  
2.10.3. G.P..Diagnosis.card.check.codes  
D0  
D1  
D2  
Initiate chip  
75  
78  
85  
87  
A4  
AC  
AA  
01  
03  
04  
05  
10  
30  
40  
00  
Detect IDE  
Enable IO device for bootlock  
Check and wake up system  
Initiate option ROM  
Show post error  
Enter BIOS setup  
BIOS boot menu  
OS in PIC mode  
OS in APIC mode  
S1  
Prepare system for memory detection  
and sizing  
D3  
D4  
D5  
C0  
C5  
0A  
0B  
0C  
38  
Memory test  
Copy BIOS from ROM to RAM  
Early CPU initiation  
Wake up AP  
S3  
Initiate KBC8042  
Detect PS2 mouse  
Detect PS2 keyboard  
USB initiation  
S4  
S5  
Resume from S1  
Resume from S3  
Resume from S4  
Leave BIOS and pass control to OS  
52  
Display USB devices  
Initiate VGA BIOS  
2A  
ASUS Z7S WS  
2-41  
 
2-42  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
This chapter describes the power up  
sequence, and ways of shutting down the  
system.  
Chapter 3:  
Powering up  
3
 
Chapter summary  
3
3.1  
Starting up for the first time......................................................... 3-1  
3.2.  
Turning.off.the.computer.............................................................. 3-2  
ASUS Z7S WS  
3.1  
Starting up for the first time  
1.  
2.  
3.  
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.  
4.  
5.  
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 “green”  
standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up  
or switch between orange and 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 (see 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.  
AMI.BIOS.beep.codes  
BIOS.Beep  
Description  
One short beep  
VGA detected  
Quick boot set to disabled  
No keyboard detected  
One continuous beep followed by two  
short beeps then a pause (repeated)  
No memory detected  
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 4.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
3-1  
 
3.2  
Turning off the computer  
3.2.1.  
Using.the.OS.shut.down.function  
If you are using Windows® XP:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Start button then select Turn.Off Computer.  
Click the Turn.Off button to shut down the computer.  
The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.  
If you are using Windows® Vista:  
1.  
2.  
Click the Start button then select ShutDown.  
The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.  
3.2.2.  
Using.the.dual.function.power.switch  
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts  
the system to sleep mode or to 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. Refer to section 4.6.Power.Menu in  
Chapter 4 for details.  
3-2  
Chapter 3: Powering up  
 
This chapter tells how to change the  
system settings through the BIOS Setup  
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS  
parameters are also provided.  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4
 
Chapter summary  
4
4.1.  
4.2.  
4.3.  
4.4.  
4.5.  
4.6.  
4.7.  
4.8.  
Managing.and.updating.your.BIOS............................................. 4-1  
BIOS.setup.program..................................................................... 4-9  
Main.menu................................................................................... 4-12  
Advanced.menu.......................................................................... 4-17  
Server.menu................................................................................ 4-25  
Security.menu............................................................................. 4-29  
Boot.menu................................................................................... 4-33  
Exit.menu..................................................................................... 4-35  
ASUS Z7S WS  
4.1  
Managing and updating your BIOS  
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic  
Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
ASUS.Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.)  
ASUS.EZ.Flash.2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or USB flash disk.)  
ASUS.AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk.)  
ASUS.CrashFree.BIOS.3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk,  
USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS file fails or  
gets corrupted.)  
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.  
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk or  
USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the  
original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities.  
4.1.1.  
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:  
Save the current BIOS file  
Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet  
Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file  
Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and  
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).  
Installing.ASUS.Update  
To install ASUS Update:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX.  
The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
4-1  
 
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.  
Updating.the.BIOS.through.the.Internet  
To update the BIOS through the Internet:  
1.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start.  
>.Programs.>.ASUS.>.ASUSUpdate.>.ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update  
main window appears.  
2.  
Select Update.BIOS from the  
Internet option from the drop-down  
menu, then click Next.  
3.  
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest  
you to avoid network traffic, or  
click Auto.Select. Click Next.  
4-2  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.  
5.  
From the FTP site, select the BIOS  
version that you wish to download.  
Click Next.  
Follow the screen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
The ASUS Update utility is  
capable of updating itself through  
the Internet. Always update the  
utility to avail all its features.  
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file  
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:  
1.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start.  
>.Programs.>.ASUS.>.ASUSUpdate.>.ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update  
main window appears.  
2.  
Select Update BIOS from a file  
option from the drop-down menu,  
then click Next.  
3.  
Locate the BIOS file from the Open win
4.  
Follow the screen instructions to compl
Z7S WS.ROM  
Z7S WS  
ASUS Z7S WS  
4-3  
4.1.2  
Creating a bootable floppy disk  
1.  
Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk.  
DOS environment  
a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive.  
b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/Sthen press <Enter>.  
Windows® XP environment  
a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive.  
b. Click Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My.Computer.  
c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.  
d. Click File from the menu, then select Format. A Format.3.1/2.Floppy.  
Disk window appears.  
e. Select Create.an.MS-DOS.startup.disk from the format options field,  
then click Start.  
Windows® Vista environment  
a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk  
drive.  
b. Click  
from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer.  
c. Right-click Floppy.Disk.Drive.then click Format to display the Format.3.  
1/2.Floppy dialog box .  
d. Select the Create.an.MS-DOS.startup.disk check box.  
e. Click Start.  
2.  
Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy  
disk.  
4-4  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
 
4.1.3.  
ASUS.EZ.Flash.2.utility  
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go  
through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS-based  
utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing  
<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).  
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:  
1.  
2.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for  
the motherboard.  
Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk or a USB flash disk, then restart the  
system.  
3.  
You can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods.  
(1) Insert the floppy disk / USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file to the  
floppy disk drive or the USB port.  
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.06  
FLASH TYPE: WINBOND W39V080FA F  
Update ROM  
Current ROM  
BOARD: Z7S WS  
VER: 0110  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: Unknown  
DATE: 12/25/07  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
C:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[B] Backup  
[ESC] Exit  
[Tab] Switch  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ.Flash.2  
and press <Enter> to enable it.  
You can switch between drives by pressing <Tab> before the correct file  
is found. Then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update  
process and automatically reboots the system when done.  
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk or a floppy 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!  
ASUS Z7S WS  
4-5  
 
4.1.4.  
AFUDOS.utility  
The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS file in DOS environment using  
a bootable floppy disk with the updated BIOS file. This utility also allows you to  
copy the current BIOS file that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets  
corrupted during the updating process.  
Copying.the.current.BIOS  
To copy the current BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:  
Make sure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has at least  
1024KB free space to save the file.  
The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only. The actual BIOS  
screen displays may not be same as shown.  
1.  
2.  
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to  
the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.  
Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:  
afudos /o[filename]  
where the [filename] is any user-assigned filename not more than eight  
alphanumeric characters for the main filename and three alphanumeric  
characters for the extension name.  
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom  
Main filename Extension.name  
3.  
Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS file to the floppy disk.  
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom  
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))  
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.  
Reading flash ..... done  
Write to file...... ok  
A:\>  
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS file.  
Updating the BIOS file  
To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:  
1.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for  
the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk.  
4-6  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
 
Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS  
filename at the DOS prompt.  
2.  
3.  
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to  
the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.  
Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:  
afudos /i[filename]  
where [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootable floppy  
disk.  
A:\>afudos /Z7SWS.ROM  
4.  
The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS.  
A:\>afudos /iZ7SWS.ROM  
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))  
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.  
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS  
Reading file ....... done  
Reading flash ...... done  
Advance Check ......  
Erasing flash ...... done  
Writing flash ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%)  
Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent  
system boot failure!  
5.  
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is  
completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive.  
A:\>afudos /iZ7SWS.ROM  
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))  
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.  
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS  
Reading file ....... done  
Reading flash ...... done  
Advance Check ......  
Erasing flash ...... done  
Writing flash ...... done  
Verifying flash .... done  
Please restart your computer  
A:\>  
ASUS Z7S WS  
4-7  
4.1.5.  
ASUS.CrashFree.BIOS.3.utility  
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 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  
update a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or the USB flash  
disk that contains the updated BIOS file.  
Prepare the motherboard support DVD, the floppy disk or the USB flash disk  
containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.  
Recovering.the.BIOS.from.the.support.DVD  
To recover the BIOS from the support DVD:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Turn on the system.  
Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive.  
The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the DVD  
for the BIOS file.  
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...  
Checking for floppy...  
When found, the utility reads the BIOS file and starts flashing the corrupted  
BIOS file.  
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...  
Checking for floppy...  
Floppy found!  
Reading file “Z7SWS.ROM”. Completed.  
Start flashing...  
4.  
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.  
Recovering the BIOS from the USB flash disk  
To recover the BIOS from the USB flash disk:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Insert the USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file to the USB port.  
Turn on the system.  
The utility will automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found,  
the utility reads the BIOS file and starts flashing the corrupted BIOS file.  
4.  
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.  
Only the USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition can  
support ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3. The device size should be smaller than  
8GB.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so  
can cause system boot failure!  
4-8  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
 
4.2  
BIOS setup program  
This motherboard supports a programmable Low-Pin Count (LPC) chip that you  
can update using the provided utility described in section 4.1.Managing.and.  
updating.your.BIOS.  
Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring  
your system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure  
your system using this utility.  
Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the  
configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the  
security password feature or change the power management settings. This  
requires you to reconfigure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the  
computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the  
LPC chip.  
The LPC chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. 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, restart the system by pressing  
<Ctrl+Alt+Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. You can  
also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if  
the first two failed.  
The 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 sub-menus and make  
your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.  
The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions  
to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after  
changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system  
compatibility and stability. Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the  
Exit Menu. See section 4.8.Exit.Menu.  
The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes  
only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for  
this motherboard.  
ASUS Z7S WS  
4-9  
 
4.2.1.  
BIOS.menu.screen  
Menu.items  
Menu.bar  
Configuration fields  
General.help  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot Tools Exit  
Main  
Advanced  
Power  
Use [ENTER]. [TAB],  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
System Time  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
Language  
[17:41:19]  
[Mon 01/14/2008]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
[English]  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system time.  
Primary IDE Master  
Primary IDE Slave  
Secondary IDE Master  
Secondary IDE Slave  
Third IDE Master  
:
:
:
:
:
:
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+- Change Option  
Tab Select Field  
F1 General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
Third IDE Slave  
Storage Configuration  
System Information  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Navigation.keys  
Sub-menu.items  
4.2.2.  
Menu.bar  
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:  
Main  
For changing the basic system configuration  
Advanced  
Power  
For changing the advanced system settings  
For changing the advanced power management (APM)  
configuration  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
For changing the system boot configuration  
For configuring options for special functions  
For selecting the exit options and loading default  
settings  
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard  
until the desired item is highlighted.  
4.2.3.  
Navigation.keys  
At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that  
particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change  
the settings.  
Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.  
4-10  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
 
4.2.4.  
Menu.items  
Use [ENTER], [TAB],  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
System Time  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
Language  
[06:22:54]  
The highlighted item on the menu  
bar displays the specific items for  
that menu. For example, selecting  
Main shows the Main menu items.  
[Wed 01/09/2008]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
[English]  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system.  
Primary IDE Master  
Primary IDE Slave  
Secondary IDE Master  
Secondary IDE Slave  
Third IDE Master  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
Third IDE Slave  
Storage Configuration  
System Information  
The other items (Advanced, Power,  
Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar  
have their respective menu items.  
Main.menu.items  
4.2.5.  
Sub-menu.items  
A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has a  
sub-menu. To display the