Z87-WS
Contents
About this guide....................................................................................................... viii
Z87-WS specifications summary............................................................................... x
Installation tools and components......................................................................... xvi
1.1 Special features..........................................................................................1-1
Motherboard overview...............................................................................1-8
Building your PC system...........................................................................2-1
iii
BIOS update utility................................................................................... 2-11
Starting up for the first time....................................................................2-17
Turning off the computer.........................................................................2-18
Knowing BIOS............................................................................................3-1
BIOS setup program..................................................................................3-2
My Favorites...............................................................................................3-6
Main menu ..................................................................................................3-7
Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................................3-9
Advanced menu .......................................................................................3-24
Monitor menu ...........................................................................................3-39
Boot menu ................................................................................................3-42
Tools menu ...............................................................................................3-48
Exit menu..................................................................................................3-50
Updating BIOS..........................................................................................3-51
iv
Support DVD information..........................................................................4-1
Software information.................................................................................4-3
RAID configurations ..................................................................................5-1
Creating a RAID driver disk.......................................................................5-7
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.
vii
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. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the
motherboard.
•
•
•
•
Chapter 2: Basic installation
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when
installing system components.
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: RAID support
This chapter describes the RAID configurations.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software
updates.
1.
2.
ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers,
that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the
standard package.
viii
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 (+).
ix
Z87-WS specifications summary
CPU
LGA1150 socket for the 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel®
Core™i5/ Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors
Supports 22nm CPU
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*
*
The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU
types.
Chipset
Memory
Intel® Z87 Express Chipset
4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 2800 (O.C.)* / 2666 (O.C.)* 2600
(O.C.)* / 2500 (O.C.)* / 2400 (O.C.)* / 2200(O.C.)* / 2133(O.C.)* /
2000 (O.C.)* / 1866(O.C.)* / 1800(O.C.)* /1600 / 1333 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
individual CPUs. Please refer to Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors List)
for details.
Expansion slots
VGA
4 x PCI Express 3.0*/2.0 x16 slots (single at x16, dual at x16/x16
mode, triple at x16/x8/x8, quad at x8/x8/x8/x8)
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots
Integrated Graphics Processor - Intel® HD Graphics support
Multi-VGA output support: DisplayPort/Mini DisplayPort/HDMI port
Supports DisplayPort 1.2* with max. resolution 4096x2160@24Hz
and 3840x2160@60Hz
Supports HDMI with max. resolution of 4096x2160@24Hz and
2560x1600@60Hz
Supports Intel® InTru™ 3D, Intel® Quick Sync Video, Intel® Clear
Video HD Technology, and Intel® Insider™
Supports up to three displays simultaneously
Maximum shared memory 1024MB
*
DisplayPort 1.2 Multi-Stream Transport compliant, supports
DisplayPort 1.2 monitor daisy chain up to 3 displays.
Multi-GPU support
LAN
Supports NVIDIA® 4-Way SLI™ Technology
Supports AMD® 4-Way CrossFireX™ Technology
2 x Intel® I210 Gigabit LAN controller
(continued on the next page)
x
Z87-WS specifications summary
Intel® Z87 Express Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10
Storage
-
-
6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (yellow)
Supports Intel® Dynamic Storage Accelerator, Intel® Smart
Response Technology, Intel® Rapid Start Technology, Intel®
Smart Connect Technology*
Marvell® 9230 SATA controllers
-
4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 10 and port multiplier
support
ASMedia® SATA 6Gb/s controller**
2 x eSATA 6Gb/s ports with port multiplier support
-
*
Supported on Intel® Core™ processor family.
** These SATA ports are for data hard drives only. ATAPI devices are not
supported.
1394
VIA VT6315N controller support 1x1394a port
Realtek® ALC1150 8-channel high definition audio
Audio
CODEC
-
High quality 112dB SNR stereo playback output (Line-out at
rear) and 104dB SNR recording input (Line-in) support.
-
-
-
-
-
Absolute Pitch 192khz/24-bit True BD Lossless Sound
BD audio layer content protection
DTS UltraPC II
DTS Connect
Supports jack-detection, multi-streaming and front panel jack-
retasking
-
Optical S/PDIF out ports at rear I/O
Intel® Z87 Express Chipset - supports ASUS USB 3.0
Boost
USB
-
-
-
-
1 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at rear panel (blue)
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support
4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports at rear panel
5 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports at mid-board
ASMedia® USB 3.0 controller - supports ASUS USB 3.0
Boost
-
3 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at rear panel (blue)
Workstation unique
features
4 PCIe x 16 slots
ASUS Dr. Power
Quick gate: 1 vertical USB 2.0 on board
ASUS WS Diag. LED
(continued on the next page)
xi
Z87-WS specifications summary
ASUS unique features
ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way
Optimization
-
4-Way Optimization tuning key perfectly consolidates
ASUS-exclusive DIGI+Power Control, TPU, EPU, and Fan
Xpert 2 that quickly optimize the digital power setting, system
performance, power saving and whole system cooling
configuration with just a click.
CPU Power
-
-
Industry leading digital 8-phase power design
ASUS CPU power utility
DRAM Power
-
-
Industry leading digital 2-phase DRAM power design
ASUS DRAM power utility
ASUS EPU
-
EPU, EPU switch
ASUS TPU
-
TurboV, GPU Boost, TPU switch
ASUS Fan Xpert 2
-
Featuring Fan Auto Tuning function for optimized speed
control.
ASUS Exclusive Features:
-
Network iControl featuring instant network bandwidth
domination for top network program in use
-
-
USB 3.0 Boost featuring speedy USB 3.0 transmission
USB Charger+ featuring quick-charging function for all smart
devices
-
-
-
-
-
Ai Charger+
Disk Unlocker
AI Suite 3
Anti Surge
MemOK!
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:
-
-
ASUS Fan Xpert 2
ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-sink solution
ASUS EZ DIY
-
ASUS USB BIOS Flashback with USB BIOS Flashback Wizard
for EZ BIOS download scheduling
-
ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphical user
interface
-
-
-
ASUS O.C. Tuner
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS Q-Design
-
-
-
-
-
-
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-Code
ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS Q-DIMM
ASUS Q-Connector
(continued on the next page)
xii
Z87-WS specifications summary
Rear Panel I/O Ports
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)
4 x USB 2.0/1.0 ports (1 supports USB BIOS Flashback)
1 x PS/2 Keyboard/mouse port
1 x HDMI port
1 x Display port
1 x Mini-Display port
2 x eSATA ports
2 x LAN (RJ-45) ports (2 x Intel® LAN)
1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port
8-channel Audio I/O ports
Internal I/O connectors
10 x SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (6 x yellow; 4 x dark brown)
1 x mSATA connector
1 x 4-pin CPU Fan connector supports both 3-pin (DC mode) and
4-pin (PWM mode) CPU coolers control
1 x 4-pin CPU Optional Fan connector (CPU_OPT)
4 x 4-pin Chassis Fan connectors
1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
1 x S/PDIF out header
1 x TPM connector
1 x chassis intrusion header
1 x COM port
1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector
2 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
1 x 6-pin EATX 12V_1 Power connector
1 x System Panel (Q-connector)
1 x MemOK! button
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
1 x mSATA switch jumper
1 x DirectKey button
1 x DRCT (DirectKey) connector
1 x EPU switch
1 x TPU switch (advanced 2-stage adjustments)
1 x Power on switch
1 x CHAFAN_SEL jumper
1 x Dr. Power switch
BIOS features
64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.7, WfM2.0, SM
BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS
CrashFree BIOS 3, My Favorites, Quick Note, Last Modified log,
F12 PrintScreen, F3 Shortcut functions, and ASUS DRAM SPD
(Serial Presence Detect) memory information
(continued on the next page)
xiii
Z87-WS specifications summary
Manageability
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.7, WOL by PME, PXE
Support DVD contents
Drivers
ASUS Utilities
ASUS Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
Accessories
10 x Serial ATA 6Gb/s cables
1 x COM port bracket
1 x USB+ 1394 bracket
1 x ASUS 4-Way SLI bridge connector
1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI bridge connector
1 x ASUS SLI bridge connector
1 x 2-in-1 Q-connector
1 x User’s manual
1 x I/O Shield
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.
xiv
Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items
User Manual
ASUS Z87-WS motherboard
User manual
Support DVD
2 USB ports + 1394a cable with
1394 bracket
10 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
COM port bracket
1 x ASUS 4-Way SLI™ bridge
connector
1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI™ bridge
connector
1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge connector
1 x 2-in-1 Q-connector
1 x I/O Shield
•
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.
xv
Installation tools and components
1 bag of screws
Philips (cross) screwdriver
PC chassis
Power supply unit
Intel® LGA1150 CPU
Intel® LGA1150 compatible CPU Fan
DIMM
SATA hard disk drive
SATA optical disc drive (optional)
Graphics card (optional)
The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.
xvi
Chapter 1:
Product Introduction
Product introduction
1
1.1
Special features
Product highlights
1.1.1
LGA1150 socket for 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel®
Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors
This motherboard supports 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™i3,
Pentium®, and Celeron® processors in the LGA1150 package. It provides great graphics and
system performance with its GPU, dual-channel DDR3 memory slots and PCI Express 2.0/3.0
expansion slots.
Intel® Z87 Express Chipset
Intel® Z87 Express Chipset is a single chipset that supports the LGA1150 socket for 4th
generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron®
processors. It utilizes serial point-to-point links, which increases bandwidth and enhances
the system’s performance. It natively supports up to six USB 3.0 ports for up to ten times
faster transfer rate than USB 2.0 and enables the iGPU function for Intel® integrated graphics
performance.
PCI Express® 3.0
PCI Express® 3.0 (PCIe 3.0) is the PCI Express bus standard that provides twice the
performance and speed of PCIe 2.0. It provides optimal graphics performance, unprecedented
data speed, and seamless transition with its complete backward compatibility to PCIe 1.0/2.0
devices.
Dual-Channel DDR3 2800 (O.C.) / 2666 (O.C.) / 2600 (O.C.) / 2500 (O.C.) / 2400
(O.C.) / 2200 (O.C.) / 2133 (OC.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1800 (O.C.) / 1600 /
1333 MHz Support
The motherboard supports dual-channel DDR3 memory featuring data transfer rates of
DDR3 2800 (O.C.) / 2666 (O.C.) / 2600 (O.C.) / 2500 (O.C.) / 2400 (O.C.) / 2200 (O.C.) /
2133 (OC.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1800 (O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 MHz to boost the system’s
performance, and to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of 3D graphics, multimedia, and
Internet applications.
Quad-GPU SLI and CrossFireX™ Support
This motherboard features the most powerful Intel® Z87 platform that optimizes PCIe
allocation in a multi-GPU SLI or CrossFireX™ solution, giving you a brand-new gaming
enjoyment.
1-1
ASUS Z87-WS
Intel® Smart Response Technology
Intel® Smart Response Technology, an important part of Green ASUS eco-friendly computing,
reduces load and wait time, eliminates unecessary hard drive spin thus lowering power
usage, and uses an installed SSD (requires 18.6 GB available space) as a cache for
frequently accessed data or applications. It combines SSD performance and hard drive
capacity, operating up to six times faster than a hard-drive-only system to boost the system’s
overall performance.
*
4th Generation Intel® Core™ processors family support Intel® Smart Response Technology.
** An operating system must be installed on the HDD to launch Intel® Smart Response Technology.
*** The SSD is reserved for caching function.
Intel® Smart Connect Technology
Your computer can receive fresh updates for selected applications, even when the system
is in sleep mode. This means less time waiting for applications to update and sync with the
cloud, leading to a more efficient computing experience.
Intel® Rapid Start Technology
Intel® Rapid Start Technology allows your system to receive updates for your web
applications in real-time even when your system is in sleep mode, saving wait time and
power usage.
1-2
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1.2
ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features
Best performance for PCI Express 3.0 4-Way CrossFireX™ and SLI™
Native third generation PCI Express x16 4-way AMD CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA® SLI™ offer
the fastest and most reliable graphics performance ever. It’s ideal for professional use in
mechanical, architectural, and interior design, aeronautics, and audiovisual content creation.
Additionally, the ample graphics power can easily run even the most demanding PC games in
full detail for enhanced entertainment.
ASUS Dr. Power: Intelligent power supply monitoring
Power supply health detection helps prevent sudden system shutdown and provides hassle-
free notifications should power delivery be insufficient. Additionally, LED messages on the
board clearly indicate any relevant power issues in the event your system fails to boot.
Built-in dual server-class Intel® i210 Ethernet
For more reliable networking, the Z87-WS features the latest server class built-in Intel®
Ethernet adapter. This leads to lower CPU utilization and temperature, outstanding
performance, as well as better support for diverse operating systems.
Beat Thermal Chokes: Better stability and lower power loss
ASUS Beat Thermal Chokes deliver great durability and up to 93% power efficiency under
normal operation. A special fin design results in 3-50C lower choke temps for added stability,
which is increased exponentially through use of highly conductive and efficient gold-treated
coating. This translates to minimal loss of power delivery.
Extra mSATA 6Gb/s
A built-in mSATA 6Gb/s card provides users diverse storage options. Install your SSD to a
mSATA 6Gb/s port for super-fast boot up and reduced resume times.
Diagnostic LED
Diag. LED checks key components (CPU, memory, graphics card, and hard drive) in
sequence during bootup. If an error is found, the LED next to the relevant device will stay lit
until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the
root problem.
Quick Gate
Quick Gate is a vertical USB connector on the motherboard, allowing you to install USB
devices directly with no messy cables. This stops important data storage devices from
breaking off unexpectedly. P8P67 WS Revolution with this unique design provides a
convenient and safe way to install data and applications on your PC.
1-3
ASUS Z87-WS
1.1.3
Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization
ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 4 brings system control solution to a totally whole new
level, combining TPU, EPU, DIGI+ Power Control and Fan Xpert 2 functions to push the
system’s performance to its optimal potential. It automatically pushes or reasonably balances
the system’s performance, power saving levels and fan settings via the user-friendly AI Suite
3 utility.
Digital Power Control
ASUS DIGI+ Power Control features the revolutionary and innovative digital VRM, DRAM,
and CPU Voltage controllers. These controllers offers ultra-precise memory and voltage
tuning for optimal system efficiency, stability and performance.
TPU
TPU (Turbo Processing Unit), offers precise voltage control and advanced monitoring
mechanisms through the TurboV functions in your ASUS AI Suite 3 utility.
EPU
EPU (Energy Processing Unit), the world’s first real-time system power-saving chip,
automatically detects the current system load and intelligently moderates power usage.
It offers a total system-wide energy optimization, reduces fan noise, and extends the
component’s lifespan.
ASUS Fan Xpert 2
ASUS Fan Xpert 2 provides customizable settings for a cooler and quieter computing
environment. With its Fan Auto Tuning feature, ASUS Fan Xpert 2 automatically detects
and tweaks all fan speeds, and provides you with optimized fan settings based on the fans’
specifications and positions.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1.4
ASUS Exclusive Features
USB 3.0 Boost
ASUS USB 3.0 Boost, which supports USB 3.0 standard UASP (USB Attached SCSI
Protocol), significantly increases a USB device’s transfer speed up to 170% faster than the
already impressive USB 3.0 transfer speed. It automatically accelerates data speeds for
compatible USB 3.0 peripherals without the need for any user interaction.
USB Charger+
With a dedicated onboard controller, quick-charge all your smart devices such as
smartphones, tablets and more, all up to three times faster, even when the system is
powered off, in sleep or hibernation mode.
USB BIOS Flashback
USB BIOS Flashback offers a hassle-free updating solution for your ultimate convenience.
Connect a USB storage device containing the BIOS file, press the BIOS Flashback button
for about three seconds, and the UEFI BIOS is automatically updated even without entering
the existing BIOS or operating system. It also allows you to regularly check for UEFI BIOS
updates, and download the latest BIOS automatically.
AI Suite 3
With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite 3 consolidates all the exclusive ASUS features
into one simple-to-use software package. It allows you to supervise overclocking, energy
management, fan speed control, voltage and sensor readings, and even interact with smart
devices via Wi-Fi. This all-in-one software offers diverse and easy to use features with no
need to switch back and forth between different utilities.
1-5
ASUS Z87-WS
1.1.5
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Fanless Design - Heat-sink solution
The stylish heatsink features a 0-dB thermal solution that offers you a noiseless PC
environment. The heatsink design also lowers the temperature of the chipset and power
phase area through highly efficient heat-exchange. Combined with usability and aesthetics,
the ASUS stylish heatsink will give you an extremely silent and cooling experience with its
elegant appearance.
1.1.6
ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)
ASUS UEFI BIOS, a UEFI compliant architecture, offers the first mouse-controlled intuitive
graphical BIOS interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls,
providing you with more flexibility, convenience, and easy to navigate UEFI BIOS than the
traditional BIOS versions. It offers dual modes and native support for hard drives larger than
2.2 TB.
ASUS UEFI BIOS includes the following new features:
•
•
•
•
•
•
New My Favorite function allows you to quickly access frequently used items
New Quick Note function allows you to take notes in the BIOS environment
New log reminder allows you to view all your modified settings
F12 BIOS snapshot hotkey
F3 Shortcut for most accessed information
ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) information detecting faulty DIMMs, and
helping with difficult POST situations.
ASUS Q-connector
ASUS Q-Connector is a unique adapter that allows you to easily connect or disconnect the
chassis front panel cables to one module, eliminating the hassle of plugging one cable at a
time and making the connection quick and accurate.
1-6
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1.7
Other special features
DTS Connect
To get the most out of your audio entertainment across all formats and quality levels,
DTS Connect combines two technologies, DTS Neo:PC™ upmixes stereo sources (CDs,
MP3s, WMAs, Internet radio) into as many as 7.1 channels of incredible surround sound.
Consumers can connect their PC to a home theater system. DTS Interactive is capable of
performing mult-channel encoding of DTS bitstreams on personal computers, and sending
encoded bitstreams out of a digital audio connection (such as S/PDIF or HDMI) designed to
deliver audio to an external decoder.
DTS UltraPC II
DTS UltraPC II delivers a superior surround sound experience through your system’s
speakers and headphones while monitoring and balancing the loudness level difference
between digital audio formats. It also enhances audio settings by augmenting low and high
frequencies of musical tones, restores compressed or re-mastered sounds, improves bass
performance even without a subwoofer, and improves dialogue derived from DVD or Blu-ray
Disc™.
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 the 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 Z87-WS
1.2
Motherboard overview
Before you proceed
1.2.1
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.
1-8
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots
Page
1. ATX power connectors
1-37
(24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V1, 8-pin EATX12V; 6-pin
EATX12V_1)
2. LGA1150 CPU socket
1-11
1-35
3. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1~4 )
4. DDR3 DIMM slots
5. EPU switch
1-12
1-21
1-20
1-19
1-18
1-33
1-40
1-32
6. TPU switch
7. DirectKey
8. MemOK! button
9. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)
10. mSATA connector
11. Marvell 9230 ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_E1234 [dark brown])
12. Intel® Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~6 [yellow])
1-31
1-21
1-19
1-38
1-34
1-22
1-24
1-33
1-39
1-17
1-22
1-36
1-32
1-17
13. Clear CMOS button
14. Direct connector (2-pin DRCT)
15. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
16. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112, USB1314; USB10)
17. mSATA_SW
18. Q-Code LED
19. IEEE 1394 port connector (10-1 pin IE1394)
20. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)
21. Power-on button
22. Reset button
23. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
24. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
25. ASUS Dr. POWER switch
1-10
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.2.3
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1150 socket designed for the 4th
Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron®
processors.
•
•
Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 only. DO NOT install a
CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1150 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
LGA1150 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.
1-11
ASUS Z87-WS
1.2.4
System memory
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules
(DIMM) slots.
A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR
or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.
Recommended memory configurations
1-12
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Memory configurations
You may install 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, a 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:
a) Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows® OS.
b) Install a 64-bit Windows® OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the
motherboard.
c) 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
value or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.5 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.
Memory modules with memory frequency higher than 2133MHz and their
corresponding timing or the loaded XMP profile is not the JEDEC memory standard.
The stability and compatibility of the memory modules depend on the CPU’s
capabilities and other installed devices.
•
Always install DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For optimum compatibility, we
recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code (D/C)
from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory modules.
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ASUS Z87-WS
Z87-WS Motherboard Qualified Vendors List (QVL)
Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.
1-14
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.2.5
Expansion slots
Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
Slot No. Slot Description
1
2
3
4
5
6
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot (at x8 mode)
PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_3 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)
PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_4 slot (at x8 mode)
PCIE x16_1 auto switches to x8 when slot PCIE x16_2 is occupied; PCIE x16_2 auto
switches to x4 when slot PCIE x16_4 is occupied.
1-15
ASUS Z87-WS
PCIe Express 3.0 operating mode
Slot
no.
SLI
3-WAY SLI
4-WAY SLI
CrossFireX
Single VGA
CrossFireX
CrossFireX
x16
1
2
x16
x8
x8
x8
(single VGA recommended)
—
—
—
—
x8
x16
—
x16
4
6
x8
x8
(dual VGA
recommended)
—
•
•
•
We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™
mode.
Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when
using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.
We recommend you connect an EATX 12V_1 cable when running CrossFireX and
SLI.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
PCIe x16_1
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
PCIe x16_2
PCIe x16_3
PCIe x16_4
PCIe x1_1
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
PCIe x1_2
shared
–
–
–
–
–
Marvell 9230
ASM1061
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
VIA1394
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
USB 3.0
–
–
–
–
shared
LAN1 (I210)
LAN2 (I210)
SATA Controller 1
SATA Controller 2
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
shared
shared
USB 2.0 Controller 1
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
USB 2.0 Controller 2
HD Audio
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
1-16
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.2.6
Onboard buttons and switches
Onboard switches and buttons allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or
open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings
to enhance system performance.
1.
Power-on button
The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake
up the system. The button also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source
indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
removing or installing any motherboard component.
2.
ASUS Dr. POWER switch
This switch allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Dr. Power feature. Install the
bundled ASUS Dr. Power Utility then enable this switch to allow the system to display
notification messages in your Windows screen if a problem is detected with your Power
Supply Unit (PSU).
1-17
ASUS Z87-WS
3.
MemOK! button
Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system boot
failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! to switch lights continuously. Press
and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic
memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.
•
•
Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.
The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the
system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.
•
•
The MemOK! switch does not function under a Windows® OS environment.
During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It
takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test
fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed
of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.
•
Due to memory tuning requirements, the system automatically reboots when
each timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole
tuning process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones
recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on
the ASUS website at www.asus.com.
•
•
•
If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system
continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn
off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.
If your system fails to boot up due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch
to boot and load the BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST
reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.
We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the
ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.
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Chapter 1: Product introduction
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