Asus Motherboard P7P55 M User Manual

P7P55-M  
Contents  
Chapter 1:  
iii  
Contents  
Chapter 2:  
iv  
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.  
REACH  
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of  
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at  
DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to  
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin  
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in  
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.  
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol  
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal  
waste.  
vi  
 
Safety information  
Electrical safety  
To prevent electric shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electric 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.  
The optical S/PDIF is an optional component (may or may not be included in your  
motherboard) and is defined as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT.  
INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION, AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.  
Never dispose of the battery in fire. It could explode and release harmful substances into  
the environment.  
Never dispose of the battery with your regular household waste. Take it to a hazardous  
material collection point.  
Never replace the battery with an incorrect battery type.  
RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE.  
DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE ABOVE BATTERY-RELATED  
INSTRUCTIONS.  
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 that 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.  
This motherboard should only be used in environments with ambient temperatures between  
5ºC (41ºF) and 40ºC (104ºF).  
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.  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.  
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.  
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.  
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.  
Typography  
Bold text  
Italics  
Indicates a menu or an item to select.  
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.  
<Key>  
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means  
that you must press the enclosed key.  
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or  
Return key.  
<Key1>+<Key2>+<Key3>  
If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key  
names are linked with a plus sign (+).  
Example: <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<D>  
viii  
 
P7P55-M specifications summary  
CPU  
LGA1156 socket for Intel® Core™ i7/ Core™ i5 processors  
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology  
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel® CPU support list.  
Chipset  
Memory  
Intel® P55 Express Chipset  
Dual-channel memory architecture  
4 x 240-pin DIMM slots support maximum 16GB unbuffered  
non-ECC DDR3 2200(O.C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866(O.C.)/  
1800(O.C.)/1600/1333 /1066MHz memory modules  
* Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)  
(Qualified Vendors List).  
*** When you install a total memory of 4GB or more,  
Windows® 32-bit operating system may only recognize less  
than 3GB. We recommend a maximum of 3GB system  
memory if you are using a Windows® 32-bit operating  
system.  
Expansion slots  
Storage  
1 x PCI Express™ 2.0 x16 slot  
2 x PCI Express™ 2.0 x1 slots  
1 x PCI slot  
Intel® P55 Express Chipset:  
-
-
6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors  
Intel® Matrix Storage supporting SATA RAID 0,1, 5,  
and 10  
VIA® VT6415 PATA controller:  
-
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 connector  
LAN  
Realtek® RTL8112L Gigabit LAN controller featuring AI NET2  
Audio  
VIA® VT1708S 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC  
-
-
Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O  
Supports Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, and Front  
Panel Jack-Retasking technologies  
IEEE 1394  
USB  
JMB381 controller supports 1 x IEEE1394 port at back panel.  
Supports up to 14 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-board,  
8 ports at the back panel)  
ASUS unique  
features  
ASUS Turbo Key  
ASUS TurboV  
ASUS EPU  
ASUS Express Gate  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS3  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
ASUS MyLogo 2  
(continued on the next page)  
ix  
 
P7P55-M specifications summary  
ASUS exclusive  
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):  
overclocking features  
-
Internal Base Clock tuning from 133 MHz up to 500MHz  
at 1MHz increment  
-
PCI Express frequency tuning from 100MHz up to  
160MHz at 1MHz increment  
Overclocking Protection:  
ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)  
-
Back panel I/O ports  
1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port  
1 x COM port  
1 x IEEE1394  
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port  
8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
8-channel audio I/O ports  
Internal I/O  
connectors  
3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0/1.1  
ports  
1 x IDE connector  
6 x SATA connectors  
1 x CPU fan/1 x Chassis fan connectors  
1 x LPT connector  
1 x Front panel audio connector  
1 x S/PDIF Out connector  
1 x 24-pin EATX power connector  
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector  
1 x System panel connector  
BIOS  
16 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0,  
SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a  
Accessories  
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable  
2 x Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s cables  
1 x I/O shield  
1 x User Manual  
Support DVD  
Form factor  
Drivers  
ASUS Utilities  
ASUS Update  
Anti-virus software (OEM version)  
microATX form factor: 9.6 in x 8.6 in (24.4 cm x 21.8 cm)  
* Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
x
Chapter 1  
Product introduction  
1.1  
Welcome!  
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P7P55-M 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  
Cables  
ASUS P7P55-M motherboard  
2 x Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s cables  
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable  
Accessories  
1 x I/O shield  
Application DVD  
Documentation  
ASUS motherboard support DVD  
User Manual  
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.  
1.3  
Special features  
1.3.1  
Product highlights  
Intel® LGA1156 Lynnfield Processor Ready  
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Lynnfield processors in  
LGA1156 package, which has memory and PCI Express controller  
integrated to support 2-channel (4 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 16 PCI  
Express 2.0 lanes, providing great graphics performance. Intel® Lynnfield  
processor is one of the most powerful and energy efficient CPU in the  
world.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-1  
 
Intel® P55  
The Intel® P55 Express Chipset is the latest one-chipset design to  
support the latest 1156 socket Intel® Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 processors.  
Intel® P55 provides improved performance by utilizing serial point-to-point  
links, allowing increased bandwidth and stability.  
Dual-Channel DDR3 2200(O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 support  
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer  
rates of 2200(O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz to meet the higher  
bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and  
Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture enlarges the  
bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance.  
PCI Express 2.0  
This motherboard supports the latest PCI Express 2.0 devices for double  
speed and bandwidth that enhances system performance.  
Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology  
This motherboard supports hard drives based on the Serial ATA (SATA)  
3Gb/s storage specifications, delivering enhanced salability and doubling  
the bus bandwidth for high-speed data saving and retrieval.  
S/PDIF digital sound ready  
This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home  
theater audio systems via the S/PDIF-out (SONY-PHILIPS Digital  
Interface) jack. It allows digital audio transfer and keeps the best signal  
quality.  
Gigabit LAN solution  
The onboard LAN controller is a highly integrated Gb LAN controller. It is  
enhanced with an ACPI management function to provide efficient power  
management for advanced operating systems.  
1.3.2  
Innovative ASUS features  
Turbo Key  
ASUS Turbo Key allows you to turn the PC power button into a physical  
overclocking button. After the easy setup, Turbo Key can boost  
performances without interrupting ongoing work or games—with just one  
touch!  
ASUS TurboV  
Feel the adrenaline rush of real-time OC-now a reality with the ASUS  
TurboV. This easy OC tool allows you to overclock without exiting or  
rebooting the OS; and its user-friendly interface makes overclock with just  
a few clicks away. Moreover, the ASUS OC profiles in TurboV provides  
the best O.C. settings in different scenarios.  
1-2  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
ASUS EPU  
ASUS EPU is a unique power saving technology that detects the current  
system loadings and adjusts the power consumption in real time.  
ASUS Express Gate  
ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick  
access to the Internet. Five seconds after powering on your computer,  
you can instantly surf the Internet without entering the Windows® OS.  
ASUS Express Gate supports installation on SATA HDDs, USB HDDs and flash  
drives with at least 1.2GB free disk space. When installing it on USB HDDs or  
flash drives, connect the drives to the motherboard USB port before turning on the  
computer.  
The actual boot time depends on the system configuration.  
ASUS Express Gate supports file uploading from SATA HDDs, ODDs and USB  
drives. It supports file downloading to USB drives only.  
ASUS Express Gate complies with the OpenGL standard. Refer to support.asus.com  
for Express Gate source codes.  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows you to  
conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can  
be stored in the CMOS or a separate file, giving you the freedom to share  
and distribute your favorite settings.  
ASUS MyLogo2™  
This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color  
boot logo for a more colorful and vivid image on your screen.  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto-recovery tool that allows you to  
restore a corrupted BIOS file using the bundled support DVD or USB  
flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file.  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a utility that allows you to update the BIOS without  
using an OS-based utility.  
ASUS AI NET2  
ASUS AI NET2 remotely detects the cable connection immediately after  
turning on the system, and any faulty cable connections are reported  
back up to 100 meters at 1 meter accuracy.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-3  
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)  
The BIOS C.P.R. feature automatically restores the CPU default settings  
when the system hangs due to overclocking failure. C.P.R. eliminates the  
need to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut  
down and reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the  
CPU parameters to their default settings.  
Green ASUS  
This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s  
Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line  
with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable  
products/packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the  
impact on the environment.  
1-4  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.4  
Before you proceed  
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change  
any motherboard settings.  
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.  
Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded  
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to  
static electricity.  
Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.  
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the  
bag that came with the component.  
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is  
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may  
cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.  
Onboard LED  
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system  
is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you must 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.  
SB_PWR  
P7P55-M  
ON  
OFF  
Standby Power Powered Off  
P7P55-M Onboard LED  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-5  
 
1.5  
Motherboard overview  
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the  
motherboard fits into it.  
Ensure that you unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard.  
Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.  
1.5.1  
Placement direction  
When installing the motherboard, ensure 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.  
1.5.2  
Screw holes  
Place six 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  
P7P55-M  
1-6  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
1.5.3  
Motherboard layout  
1
2
3
4
5
6
3
21.8cm(8.6in)  
KBPWR  
CHA_FAN  
KB_USB78  
USBPW1-8  
CPU_FAN  
ATX12V  
USB56  
F_USB34  
LAN1_USB12  
AUDIO  
7
8
PCIEX16  
RTL  
8112L  
P7P55-M  
JMB  
381  
PCIEX1_1  
PCIEX1_2  
Intel®  
P55  
Super  
I/O  
SATA1  
SATA3  
SATA2  
SATA4  
Lithium Cell  
CMOS Power  
16Mb  
BIOS  
CLRTC  
PCI1  
VIA  
VT1708  
SATA5  
SATA6  
SB_PWR  
USB1314  
USB1112 USB910  
USBPW9-14  
LPT  
SPDIF_OUT  
AAFP  
PANEL  
15 14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
1
9
1.5.4  
Layout contents  
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED  
Page  
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED  
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
Page  
1. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW1-8, 3-pin  
1-22  
9.  
1-29  
USBPW9-14)  
2. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR)  
1-22  
10. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB910,  
1-27  
1-21  
1-5  
USB1112, USB1314)  
3. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin 1-26  
ATX12V)  
11. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)  
4. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin  
CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN)  
1-27  
12. Onboard LED  
5. Intel CPU socket  
1-8  
13. LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT)  
1-28  
6. DDR3 DIMM sockets  
1-13 14. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-26  
7. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)  
8. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6)  
1-25  
1-28  
15. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-24  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-7  
 
1.6  
Central Processing Unit (CPU)  
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1156 socket designed for the Intel®  
Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 processors.  
Unplug all power cables before installing the CPU.  
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  
LGA1156 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.  
1.6.1  
Installing the CPU  
To install a CPU:  
1.  
Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.  
P7P55-M  
P7P55-M CPU socket LGA1156  
2.  
Press the load lever with your thumb (A),  
and then move it to the right (B) until it is  
released from the retention tab.  
Load lever  
A
To prevent damage to the socket pins,  
do not remove the PnP cap unless  
you are installing a CPU.  
B
Retention tab  
1-8  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
3.  
4.  
5.  
Lift the load lever in the direction of the  
arrow until the load plate is completely  
lifted.  
Load plate  
Remove the PnP cap from the CPU  
socket.  
PnP cap  
Position the CPU over the socket,  
ensuring that the gold triangle is on the  
bottom-left corner of the socket, and then  
fit the socket alignment keys into the CPU  
notches.  
CPU notches  
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!  
Gold  
triangle  
mark  
Alignment keys  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-9  
6.  
Apply some Thermal Interface Material  
to the exposed area of the CPU that the  
heatsink will be in contact with, ensuring  
that it is spread in an even thin layer.  
Some heatsinks come with pre-  
applied thermal paste. If so, skip this  
step.  
The Thermal Interface Material is  
toxic and inedible. DO NOT eat it. If  
it gets into your eyes or touches your  
skin, wash it off immediately, and seek  
professional medical help.  
7.  
Close the load plate (A), and then push  
down the load lever (B), ensuring that  
the front edge of the load plate slides  
under the retention knob (C).  
B
A
C
8.  
Insert the load lever under the retention  
tab.  
1-10  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.6.2  
Installing the CPU heatsink and fan  
The Intel® LGA1156 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to  
ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.  
When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan and  
heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, ensure that you use only Intel®-certified  
multi-directional heatsink and fan.  
Your Intel® LGA1156 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and  
requires no tool to install.  
Use an LGA1156-compatible CPU heatsink and fan assembly only. The LGA1156 socket  
is incompatible with the LGA775 and LGA1366 sockets in size and dimension.  
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, ensure that you have  
properly applied Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install  
the heatsink and fan assembly.  
Ensure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you install the CPU  
fan and heatsink assembly.  
To install the CPU heatsink and fan:  
A
1.  
Place the heatsink on top of the installed  
CPU, ensuring that the four fasteners match  
the holes on the motherboard.  
B
B
A
Orient the heatsink and fan assembly  
such that the CPU fan cable is closest to  
the CPU fan connector.  
2.  
Push down two fasteners at a time in a  
diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink  
and fan assembly in place.  
1
1
A
B
B
A
The type of CPU heatsink and fan assembly may differ, but the installation steps and  
functions should remain the same. The illustration above is for reference only.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-11  
 
3.  
Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.  
CPU_FAN  
P7P55-M  
P7P55-M CPU fan connector  
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if  
you fail to plug this connector.  
1.6.3  
Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan  
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard.  
Rotate each fastener counterclockwise.  
Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and  
fan assembly from the motherboard.  
A
A
B
B
A
B
B
A
1-12  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
4.  
5.  
Carefully remove the heatsink and fan  
assembly from the motherboard.  
Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure  
correct orientation when reinstalling.  
1.7  
System memory  
1.7.1  
Overview  
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules  
(DIMM) sockets.  
A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched  
differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for  
better performance with less power consumption.  
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:  
Channel  
Sockets  
Channel A  
Channel B  
DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2  
DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2  
P7P55-M  
P7P55-M 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-13  
 
1.7.2  
Memory configurations  
You may install 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB unbuffered 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.  
Due to Intel spec definition, X.M.P. DIMMs are supported for one DIMM per channel  
only.  
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect the  
CPU.  
According to Intel CPU spec, CPUs with a core frequency of 2.66G support the  
maximum DIMM frequency of up to DDR3-1333. To use DIMMs of a higher frequency  
with a 2.66G CPU, enable the DRAM O.C. Profile feature in BIOS. Refer to section 2.4  
Ai Tweaker menu for details.  
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we  
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.  
Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you install 4GB  
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be  
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the  
following:  
- Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows® OS.  
- Install a 64-bit Windows® OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the  
motherboard.  
This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less.  
The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect  
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.  
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a  
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked or at a  
higher frequency, refer to section 2.4 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory frequency  
adjustment.  
For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full  
memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.  
1-14  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
P7P55-M Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3-2000 (O.C.) MHz capability  
Timing  
DIMM  
(BIOS)  
DIMM Support  
SS/  
DS  
Vendor  
Part No.  
Size  
Brand  
Chip NO.  
Voltage  
A*  
B*  
C*  
GEIL  
GU34GB2000C9DC(XMP)  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
3072MB(kit of 3)  
3072MB(kit of 3)  
6144MB(Kit of 3 )  
2048MB(Kit of 2)  
2048MB(Kit of 2)  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
9-9-9-28  
2.0V  
1.65V  
1.65V  
1.65V  
Kingston KHX2000C8D3T1K3/3GX(XMP)  
Kingston KHX2000C9D3T1K3/3GX(XMP)  
Kingston KHX2000C8D3T1K3/6GX(XMP)  
OCZ  
OCZ  
OCZ  
OCZ3P20002GK(EPP)  
OCZ3P2000EB2GK  
OCZ3P20004GK(EPP)  
9-9-9-30 1.85V  
9-8-8-30  
9-9-9-30  
1.8V  
1.9V  
DDR3-1866(O.C.) MHz capability  
Timing  
DIMM  
(BIOS)  
DIMM Support  
SS/  
DS  
Vendor  
Part No.  
Size  
Brand  
Chip NO.  
Voltage  
A*  
B*  
C*  
OCZ  
OCZ3P1866LV4GK  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
DS  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
9-9-9-27  
1.65V  
DDR3-1800(O.C.) MHz capability  
Timing  
DIMM  
(BIOS)  
DIMM Support  
SS/  
DS  
Vendor  
Part No.  
Size  
Brand  
Chip NO.  
Voltage  
A*  
B*  
C*  
Apacer  
Corsair  
OCZ  
78.0AGCD.CDZ(XMP)  
CM3X2G1800C8D  
OCZ3P18004GK  
2048MB(Kit of 2)  
2048MB  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
1024MB  
8-8-8-27  
8-8-8-27  
1.9V  
1.9V  
OCZ  
QCZ3P18004GK  
Transcend TX1800KLU-2GK  
DDR3-1600MHz capability  
Timing  
DIMM  
(BIOS)  
DIMM Support  
SS/  
DS  
Vendor  
Part No.  
Size  
Brand  
Chip NO.  
Voltage  
A*  
B* C*  
A-Data  
A-Data  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
AD31600E002GU  
2048MB  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85V  
AD31600X002GMU  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
2048MB(Kit of 2)  
2048MB  
7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85V  
CM3X1G1600C9DHX  
9-9-9-24  
1.8V  
CM3X2G1600C9DHX  
1.80V  
CM3X2G1600C9DHX  
2048MB  
TR3X6G1600C8 G(XMP)  
TR3X6G1600C8D G(XMP)  
TR3X6G1600C9 G(XMP)  
TR3X6G1600C8D G(XMP)  
BL12864BA1608.8SFB(XMP)  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
8-8-8-24  
9-9-9-24  
8-8-8-24  
8-8-8-24  
9-9-9-28  
1.65V  
1.65V  
1.65V  
1.8V  
6144MB(Kit of 3)  
DS  
SS  
SS  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
BL12864BE2009.8SFB3(EPP) 3072MB(Kit of 3)  
BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP)  
2.0V  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
BL25664TB1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3)  
BL25664TG1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3)  
BL25664TR1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3)  
DS  
DS  
DS  
8-8-8-24  
8-8-8-24  
8-8-8-24  
continued on the next page  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-15  
DDR3 1600 MHz capability  
Timing  
DIMM  
(BIOS)  
DIMM Support  
SS/  
DS  
Vendor  
Part No.  
Size  
Brand  
Chip NO.  
Voltage  
A*  
B* C*  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SkiLL  
G.SKILL  
GEIL  
F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ  
F3-12800CL8T-6GBHK  
F3-12800CL8T-6GBPI(XMP)  
F3-12800CL9T-6GBNQ  
GV34GB1600C8DC  
2048MB(Kit of 2)  
2048MB  
SS  
DS  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
9-9-9-24 1.5V~1.6V  
8-8-8-21 1.6~1.65  
8-8-8-21 1.6-1.65V  
9-9-9-24 1.5V~1.6V  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
6144MB(Kit of 3)  
2048MB  
DS  
DS  
8-8-8-28  
1.6V  
Kingmax  
FLGD45F-B8KG9  
1024MB  
SS Kingmax KFB8FNGXF-  
ANX-12A  
Kingmax  
Kingmax  
FLGD45F-B8MF7 MAEH(XMP) 1024MB  
FLGE85F-B8KG9 2048MB  
SS  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
7
7
DS Kingmax KFB8FNGXF-  
ANX-12A  
Kingmax  
Kingston  
Kingston  
OCZ  
FLGE85F-B8MF7 MEEH(XMP) 2048MB  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
KHX1600C9D3K2/4G  
KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP)  
OCZ3G1600LV3GK  
OCZ3P1600EB4GK  
OCZ3SOU16004GK  
OCZ3X16004GK  
4096MB(kit of 2)  
1.7-1.9V  
1.65V  
1.65V  
1.9V  
6144MB(Kit of 3)  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
8-8-8-24  
7-7-6-24  
8-8-8-24  
7-7-7-24  
8-8-8-24  
9
OCZ  
OCZ  
1.9V  
OCZ  
1.9V  
OCZ  
OCZ3G1600LV6GK  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
1.65V  
Super Talent WA160UX6G9  
Kingtiger KTG2G1600PG3  
2048MB  
DS  
DDR3 1333 MHz capability  
DIMM  
Support  
Timing  
DIMM  
(BIOS)  
SS/  
DS  
Vendor  
Part No.  
Size  
Brand  
Chip NO.  
Voltage  
A* B* C*  
A-Data  
A-Data  
AD31333001GOU  
AD31333G001GOU  
1024MB  
SS  
SS  
A-Data AD30908C8D-151C E0906  
N/A Heat-Sink Package  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
8-8-8-24  
8-8-8-24  
1.65-  
1.85V  
A-Data  
A-Data  
AD31333002GOU  
2048MB  
2048MB  
DS  
DS  
A-Data AD30908C8D-151C E0903  
N/A Heat-Sink Package  
AD31333G002GMU  
1.65-  
1.85V  
Apacer  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
78.A1GC6.9L1  
2048MB  
1024MB  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
Apacer AM5D5808AEWSBG0908D  
9
CM3X1024-1333C9DHX  
CM3X1024-1333C9  
TR3X3G1333C9 G  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
9-9-9-24  
1.60V  
1024MB  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
1024MB  
9-9-9-24  
9-9-9-24  
9
1.50V  
1.50V  
1.5V  
TR3X3G1333C9 G  
TR3X3G1333C9  
CM3X1024-1333C9DHX  
CM3X2048-1333C9DHX  
TW3X4G1333C9 G  
CT12864BA1339.8FF  
CT12872BA1339.9FF  
BL12864TA1336.8SFB1  
CT12864BA1339.8SFD  
CT25664BA1339.16FF  
CT25672BA1339.18FF  
Corsair Heat-Sink Package  
2048MB  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
1024MB  
9-9-9-24  
1.50V  
1.8V  
Micron 9FF22D9KPT  
9
1024MB  
Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC)  
9
2048MB(Kit of 2)  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
2048MB  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
6-6-6-20  
Micron 8XD22D9JNM  
Micron 9KF27D9KPT  
Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC)  
9
9
9
2048MB  
(continued on the next page)  
1-16  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
DDR3 1333 MHz capability  
DIMM  
Support  
Timing  
DIMM  
(BIOS)  
SS/  
DS  
Vendor  
Part No.  
Size  
Brand  
Chip NO.  
Voltage  
A* B* C*  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
BL25664ABA1336.16SFB1 4096MB(Kit of 2)  
BL25664BA1336.16SFB1 4096MB(Kit of 2)  
DS  
DS  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
6-6-6-20  
6-6-6-20  
7-7-7-24  
1.8V  
1.8V  
BL25664BN1337.16FF  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
1.65V  
(XMP)  
Crucial  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SkiLL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
GEIL  
CT25664BA1339.16SFD  
F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK  
F3-10600CL9D-2GBPK  
F3-10666CL7T-3GBPK  
F3-10666CL9T-3GBNQ  
F3-10600CL7D-2GBPI  
F3-10600CL9D-2GBNQ  
F3-10666CL8D-4GBHK  
F3-10666CL7T-6GBPK  
F3-10666CL9T-6GBNQ  
DDR3-1333 CL9-9-9-24  
GV34GB1333C7DC  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
Micron 8UD22D9JNM  
9
1024MB  
1024MB  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package  
G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
1024MB  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V  
9-9-9-24 1.5~1.6V  
G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package  
G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package  
1024MB  
4096MB(Kit of 2 ) DS  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
GEIL  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
GL1L128M88BA12N  
8-8-8-21 1.5-1.6V  
7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V  
9-9-9-24 1.5V~1.6V  
9
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
6144MB(Kit of 3)  
1024MB  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
GEIL  
2048MB  
7-7-7-24  
1.5V  
GEIL  
GG34GB1333C9DC  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
9-9-9-24 1.3V(low  
voltage)  
GEIL  
DDR3-1333 CL9-9-9-24  
FLFD45F-B8MF9  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
9
1.5V  
Kingmax  
Kingmax  
Kingmax  
Kingmax  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Micron  
Micron  
Micron  
Micron  
Micron  
Micron  
Micron  
Micron  
OCZ  
1024MB  
1024MB  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
Micron 8HD22D9JNM  
Micron 9CF22D9KPT  
Micron 8HD22D9JNM  
Micron 9GF27D9KPT  
FLFD45F-B8MH9 MAES  
FLFE85F-B8MF9  
2048MB  
FLFE85F-B8MH9 MEES  
KVR1333D3N9/1G  
2048MB  
1024MB  
Hynix  
H5TQ1G83BFR  
9
1.5V  
1.5V  
KVR1333D3N9/2G  
2048MB  
DS Qimonda IDSH1G-03A1F1C-13H  
MT8JTF12864AY-1G4D1  
MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1  
MT9JSF 12872AZ-1G4F1  
MT8JTF12864AY-1G4D1  
MT12JSF25672AZ-1G4F1  
MT16JTF25664AY-1G1D1  
MT18JTF25664AZ-1G4F1  
1024MB  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
Micron 8LD22D9JNM  
Micron 9FF22D9KPT  
Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC)  
Micron 8XD22D9JNM  
Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC)  
Micron 8LD22 D9JNM  
Micron 9KF27D9KPT  
Micron 8UD22D9JNM  
1024MB  
9
9
9
9
1024MB  
3072MB(Kit of 3)  
2048MB  
2048MB  
2048MB  
9
9
MT16JTF25664AY-1G4D1 6144MB(Kit of 3)  
OCZ3P13332GK 2048MB(Kit of 2)  
OCZ3X1333LV3GK(XMP) 3072MB(Kit of 3)  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
7-7-7-20  
1.8V  
1.6V  
OCZ  
OCZ  
OCZ3G13334GK  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
4096MB(Kit of 2)  
1.7V  
OCZ  
OCZ3RPX1333EB4GK  
OCZ3X13334GK(XMP)  
OCZ3G1333LV6GK  
OCZ3P1333LV6GK  
6-5-5-20  
1.85V  
1.75V  
1.65V  
1.65V  
1.60V  
OCZ  
OCZ  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
9-9-9-20  
7-7-7-20  
8-8-8-20  
OCZ  
OCZ  
OCZ3X1333LV6GK(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3 ) DS  
SAMSUNG M378B2873DZ1-CH9  
SAMSUNG M378B2873DZ1-CH9  
SAMSUNG M378B2873EH1-CH9  
SAMSUNG M391B2873DZ1-CH9  
SAMSUNG M378B5673DZ1-CH9  
SAMSUNG M378B5673EH1-CH9  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
2048MB  
SS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9  
SS Samsung SEC 846 HCH9 K4B1G08460  
SS Samsung SEC 913 HCH9 K4B1G0846E  
SS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9(ECC)  
DS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9  
DS Samsung SEC 913 HCH9 K4B1G0846E  
(continued on the next page)  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-17  
DDR3 1333 MHz capability  
DIMM  
Support  
Timing  
DIMM  
(BIOS)  
SS/  
DS  
Vendor  
Part No.  
Size  
Brand  
Chip NO.  
Voltage  
A* B* C*  
SAMSUNG M391B5673DZ1-CH9  
2048MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
2048MB  
2048MB  
2048MB  
DS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9(ECC)  
Super Talent W1333X2GB8  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Heat-Sink Package  
Transcend  
Transcend  
Transcend  
Transcend  
Kingtiger  
TS128MLK64V3U  
TS128MLK72V3U  
TS256MLK64V3U  
TS256MLK64V3U  
2GB DIMM PC3-10666  
KTG2G1333PG3  
SEC 813HCH9 K4B1G0846D  
K4B1G0846D(ECC)  
Micron 9GF27D9KPT  
N/A SEC816HCH9K4B1G0846D  
DS Samsung SEC 904 HCH9 K4B1G0846D  
DS N/A Heat-Sink Package  
Kingtiger  
SS - Single-sided / DS - Double-sided  
DIMM support:  
A*: Supports one module inserted into any slot as Single-channel memory configuration.  
B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the blue or black slots as one pair  
of Dual-channel memory configuration.  
C*: Supports four modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as two pairs of  
Dual-channel memory configuration.  
ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function.  
Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs.  
According to Intel spec definition, DDR3-1600 is supported for one DIMM per channel  
only. ASUS exclusively provides two DDR3-1600 DIMM support for each memory  
channel.  
1-18  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.7.3  
Installing a DIMM  
Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components.  
Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.  
2
To install a DIMM:  
DIMM notch  
1.  
Press the retaining clips outward to  
unlock a DIMM socket.  
2.  
Align a DIMM on the socket such that  
the notch on the DIMM matches the  
break on the socket.  
1
Unlocked retaining clip  
A 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.  
3.  
Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket  
until the retaining clips snap back in place  
and the DIMM is properly seated.  
3
Locked Retaining Clip  
1.7.4  
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
DIMM notch  
2.  
Remove the DIMM from the socket.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-19  
 
1.8  
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.  
Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may  
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.  
1.8.1  
Installing an expansion card  
To install an expansion card:  
1.  
Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and  
make the necessary hardware settings for the card.  
2.  
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).  
3.  
Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later  
use.  
4.  
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.  
1.8.2  
Configuring an expansion card  
After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software settings.  
1.  
Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for  
information on BIOS setup.  
2.  
Assign an IRQ to the card.  
3.  
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.  
1.8.3  
PCI slot  
The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that  
comply with PCI specifications.  
1.8.4  
PCI Express x1 slots  
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that  
comply with the PCI Express specifications.  
1.8.5  
PCI Express x16 slot  
This motherboard has one PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot that supports PCI Express x16 2.0  
graphic cards complying with the PCI Express specifications.  
Refer to section 1.5.3 Motherboard Layout for the location of the expansion slots.  
1-20  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
1.9  
Jumpers  
1.  
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)  
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can  
clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing  
the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in  
CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.  
CLRTC  
1
2
2
3
P7P55-M  
Normal  
Clear RTC  
(Default)  
P7P55-M Clear RTC RAM  
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.  
You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For  
system failure due to overclocking, use the CPU Parameter Recall (C.P.R.) feature. Shut  
down and reboot the system, then the BIOS automatically resets parameter settings to  
default values.  
Due to the chipset limitation, AC power off is required before you use the C.P.R.  
function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord  
before rebooting the system.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-21  
 
2.  
Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR)  
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up feature. When you  
set this jumper to pins 2–3 (+5VSB), you can wake up the computer by pressing a key  
on the keyboard (the default is the Space Bar). This feature requires an ATX power  
supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in  
the BIOS.  
KBPWR  
1
2
2
3
+5VSB  
+5V  
(Default)  
P7P55-M  
P7P55-M Keyboard Power Setting  
3.  
USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW1-8, 3-pin USBPW9-14)  
Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep mode (CPU stopped,  
DRAM refreshed, system running in low power mode) using the connected USB  
devices. Set to +5VSB to wake up from S3 and S4 sleep modes (no power to CPU,  
DRAM in slow refresh, power supply in reduced power mode).  
USBPW1-8  
1
2
2
3
+5VSB  
+5V  
(Default)  
USBPW9-14  
P7P55-M  
1
2
2
3
+5VSB  
+5V  
(Default)  
P7P55-M USB Device Wake Up  
The USB device wake-up feature requires a power supply that can provide 500mA on  
the +5VSB lead for each USB port; otherwise, the system would not power up.  
The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supply capability (+5VSB)  
whether under normal condition or in sleep mode.  
1-22  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.11  
Connectors  
1.11.1  
Rear panel connectors  
1
3
4
5 6 7 8  
2
14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
9
1.  
2.  
3.  
PS/2 Keyboard / Mouse port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard / mouse.  
Serial port. This 9-pin COM port is for serial devices.  
IEEE1394 port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed connectivity for audio/  
video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable devices.  
4.  
LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN)  
through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.  
LAN port LED indications  
SPEED  
LED  
ACT/LINK  
LED  
ACT/LINK LED  
Status  
SPEED LED  
Status  
Description  
No link  
Description  
OFF  
OFF  
10 Mbps connection  
100 Mbps connection  
1 Gbps connection  
ORANGE  
BLINKING  
Linked  
ORANGE  
GREEN  
Data activity  
LAN port  
5.  
6.  
Center / Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer speakers.  
Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers in a 4-channel,  
6-channel, or 8-channel audio configuration.  
7.  
8.  
Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio  
sources.  
Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel, 6-  
channel, and 8-channel configurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker  
Out.  
9.  
Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.  
10. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speaker in an 8-channel  
audio configuration.  
Refer to the audio configuration table on the next page for the function of the audio ports in  
2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-23  
 
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration  
Port  
Headset 2-channel  
Line In  
4-channel  
Line in  
6-channel  
Line in  
8-channel  
Line in  
Light Blue  
Lime  
Line Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic In  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic in  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic in  
Pink  
Mic In  
Orange  
Black  
-
-
-
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
Rear Speaker Out  
Gray  
-
-
-
Side Speaker Out  
11. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
12. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
13. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
14. USB 2.0 ports 7 and 8. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
1.11.2  
Internal connectors  
1.  
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  
PIN 1  
PIN 1  
P7P55-M  
HD-audio-compliant  
pin definition  
Legacy AC’97  
compliant definition  
P7P55-M 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.  
If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector, set  
the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD Audio]. If you want to connect an  
AC'97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this  
connector is set to [HD Audio]. See section 2.5.3 Onboard Devices Configuration for  
details.  
1-24  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
2.  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)  
The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are  
three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 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.  
Drive jumper setting  
Mode of device(s)  
Cable connector  
Black  
Single device  
Two devices  
Cable-Select or Master  
-
Master  
Slave  
Master  
Slave  
Black  
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 133/100/66 IDE devices.  
PRI_EIDE  
PIN1  
P7P55-M  
NOTE:Orient the red markings  
on the IDE ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
P7P55-M IDE connector  
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” ensure that all other device jumpers have the  
same setting.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-25  
3.  
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)  
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are  
designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and  
push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.  
ATX12V  
EATXPWR  
+3 Volts  
GND  
+12 Volts  
+12 Volts  
+5V Standby  
Power OK  
GND  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
-5 Volts  
GND  
PIN 1  
+5 Volts  
GND  
GND  
GND  
+5 Volts  
GND  
PSON#  
GND  
P7P55-M  
+3 Volts  
+3 Volts  
-12 Volts  
+3 Volts  
PIN 1  
P7P55-M 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 400 W.  
DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12V power plug. Otherwise, the system will  
not boot up.  
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,  
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.  
4.  
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)  
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect  
the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot  
opening at the back of the system chassis.  
P7P55-M  
SPDIF_OUT  
P7P55-M Digital audio connector  
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.  
1-26  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
5.  
CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN)  
Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the  
black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.  
Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the  
system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place  
jumper caps on the fan connectors!  
CHA_FAN  
CPU_FAN  
P7P55-M  
P7P55-M fan connectors  
Only the 4-pin CPU fan supports the ASUS Q-FAN feature.  
6.  
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112, USB1314)  
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of  
these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system  
chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to  
480 Mbps connection speed.  
USB1314  
USB1112  
USB910  
P7P55-M  
PIN 1  
PIN 1  
PIN 1  
P7P55-M USB2.0 connectors  
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the  
motherboard!  
The USB module cable is purchased separately.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-27  
7.  
Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6)  
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk  
and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3Gb/s is backward compatible with Serial ATA  
1.5Gb/s specification. The data transfer rate of the Serial ATA 3Gb/s is faster than the  
standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133).  
SATA1  
SATA3  
SATA5  
SATA2  
SATA4  
SATA6  
P7P55-M  
P7P55-M SATA connectors  
These connectors are set to Standard IDE mode by default. In Standard IDE mode, you  
can connect Serial ATA boot/data hard disk 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].  
Before creating a RAID set, refer to the RAID Supplementary Guide included in the  
folder named Manual in the support DVD.  
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or later version before using Serial ATA  
hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature (RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10) is available only if  
you are using Windows® XP SP2 or later version.  
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the Configure SATA as item in the BIOS to [AHCI].  
See section Storage Configuration for details.  
8.  
LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT)  
The LPT (Line Printing Terminal) connector supports devices such as a printer. LPT  
standardizes as IEEE 1284, which is the parallel port interface on IBM PC-compatible  
computers.  
LPT  
P7P55-M  
PIN 1  
P7P55-M Parallel port connector  
1-28  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
9.  
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.  
PLED  
SPEAKER  
PANEL  
PIN 1  
P7P55-M  
IDE_LED  
PWRSW RESET  
* Requires an ATX power supply  
P7P55-M System panel connector  
System power LED (2-pin PLED)  
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED  
cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system  
power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.  
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)  
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable  
to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to  
the HDD.  
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)  
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker  
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.  
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)  
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns  
the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS  
settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON  
turns the system OFF.  
Reset button (2-pin RESET)  
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without  
turning off the system power.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
1-29  
1.12  
Software support  
1.12.1  
Installing an operating system  
This motherboard supports Windows® XP / Vista / 7 Operating Systems (OS). Always install  
the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.  
Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for  
detailed information.  
Ensure that you install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions / Windows® Vista  
Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and  
system stability.  
1.12.2  
Support DVD information  
The Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software  
applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.  
The contents of the Support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the  
To run the Support DVD  
Place the Support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu  
if Autorun is enabled in your computer.  
The following screen is for reference only.  
Click an icon to  
display Support DVD/  
motherboard information  
Click an item to install  
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the Support DVD to  
locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run  
the DVD.  
1-30  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
 
Chapter 2  
BIOS information  
2.1  
Managing and updating your BIOS  
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need to  
restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update  
utility.  
2.1.1  
ASUS Update utility  
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard  
BIOS in Windows® environment.  
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet  
Service Provider (ISP).  
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.  
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.  
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.  
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.  
Updating the BIOS  
To update the BIOS:  
1.  
From the Windows® desktop, click Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate >  
ASUSUpdate to launch the ASUS Update utility.  
2.  
From the dropdown list, select any of the updating process:  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-1  
 
Updating from the Internet  
a. Select Update BIOS from the Internet, then click Next.  
b. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click Auto  
Select then click Next.  
c. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download then click  
Next.  
The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update  
the utility to avail all its features.  
Updating from a BIOS file  
a. Select Update BIOS from a file, then click Next.  
b. Locate the BIOS file from the Open window, then click Open.  
3.  
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the updating process.  
2.1.2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility  
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based  
utility.  
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:  
1.  
Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port, then launch  
EZ Flash 2 in any of these two ways:  
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST.  
Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2 and  
press <Enter> to enable it.  
Press <Tab> to switch between drives until the correct BIOS file is found.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V4.06  
FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L1605A  
Current ROM  
BOARD: P7P55-M  
VER: 0202 (H:00 B:01)  
DATE: 09/11/2009  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
[Tab] Switch  
[B] Backup  
[V] Drive Info  
[ESC] Exit  
2-2  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
 
2.  
When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process  
and automatically reboots the system when done.  
Only a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition can support the ASUS  
EZ Flash 2 utility.  
Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot  
failure!  
2.1.3  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS  
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file  
when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS  
file using the motherboard support DVD or a removable device that contains the updated  
BIOS file.  
Before using this utility, rename the BIOS file in the removable device into  
P7P55M.ROM.  
The BIOS file in the support DVD may not be the latest version. Download the latest  
The removable device that ASUS CrashFree BIOS support vary with motherboard  
models. For motherboards without the floppy connector, prepare a USB flash disk before  
using this utility.  
Recovering the BIOS  
To recover the BIOS:  
1.  
Turn on the system.  
2.  
Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the removable device that contains the  
BIOS file to the USB port or to the floppy disk drive, if supported.  
3.  
The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the utility  
reads the BIOS file and starts flashing the corrupted BIOS file.  
4.  
Turn off the system after the utility completes the updating process and turn on again.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause  
system boot failure!  
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select  
the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. Refer to section 2.9 Exit Menu for  
details.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-3  
 
2.1.4  
ASUS BIOS Updater  
The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also  
allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or  
gets corrupted during the updating process.  
The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may  
not be same as shown.  
Before updating BIOS  
1.  
Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive in FAT32/16 format and  
single partition.  
2.  
Download the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at http://  
support.asus.com and save them on the USB flash drive.  
NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS file and BIOS  
Updater to a hard disk drive or USB flash drive in NTFS format.  
Do not save the BIOS file to a floppy disk due to low disk capacity.  
3.  
Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).  
Booting the system in DOS environment  
1.  
2.  
Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the USB port.  
Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the BIOS  
Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the  
optical drive as the boot device.  
Please select boot device:  
SATA:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
CDROM:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
USB:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
Network:XXXXXXXXXXXXX  
and to move selection  
ENTER to select boot device  
ESC to boot using defaults  
3.  
4.  
When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by  
pressing the item number.  
At the FreeDOS prompt, type d:and press <Enter> to switch the disk from  
Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB flash drive).  
Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!  
C:\>d:  
D:\>  
2-4  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
 
Backing up the current BIOS  
To backup the current BIOS file using the BIOS Updater  
Ensure that the USB flash drive is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space  
to save the file.  
1.  
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[filename]and press <Enter>.  
D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom  
Filename Extension  
The [filename] is any user-assigned filename with no more than eight alphanumeric  
characters for the filename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension.  
2.  
The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When  
BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt.  
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.00b [09/06/22]  
FLASH TYPE:MXIC 25L1605A  
Current ROM  
BOARD: P7P55-M  
VER: 0202  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: Unknown  
DATE: 09/11/2009  
PATH: A:\  
BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.  
Note  
Saving BIOS:  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-5  
Updating the BIOS file  
To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater  
1.  
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /gand press <Enter>.  
D:\>bupdater /pc /g  
2.  
The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.  
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.00b [09/06/22]  
FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L1605A  
Current ROM  
BOARD: P7P55-M  
VER: 0202  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: Unknown  
DATE: 09/11/2009  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
P7P55M.ROM  
17:30:48  
2097152 2009-09-23  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
[Tab] Switch  
[B] Backup  
[V] Drive Info  
[Esc] Exit  
3.  
Press <Tab> to switch between screen fields and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys  
to select the BIOS file and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS file  
and prompts you to confirm BIOS update.  
Are you sure to update BIOS?  
Yes  
No  
4.  
Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS  
Updater. Restart your computer.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot  
failure!  
For BIOS Updater version 1.04 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS prompt  
after updating BIOS.  
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.  
Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See section 2.9 Exit  
menu for details.  
Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS file if you have  
disconnected them.  
2-6  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
2.2  
BIOS setup program  
Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS  
screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup  
program.  
Entering BIOS Setup at startup  
To enter BIOS Setup at startup:  
Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>,  
POST continues with its routines.  
Entering BIOS Setup after POST  
To enter BIOS Setup after POST:  
Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.  
Press the reset button on the system chassis.  
Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you  
failed to enter BIOS Setup using the first two options.  
Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force  
reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We  
recommend to always shut down the system properly from the operating system.  
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 Setups Default item under the Exit Menu. See section 2.9 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.  
motherboard.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-7  
 
2.3  
Main menu  
When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an  
overview of the basic system information.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Use [ENTER], [TAB] or  
[SHIFT-TAB] to select  
a field.  
System Time  
System Date  
Language  
[00:31:48]  
[Fri 04/10/2009]  
[English]  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system time.  
SATA 1  
SATA 2  
SATA 3  
SATA 4  
SATA 5  
SATA 6  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Storage Configuration  
+-  
Change Field  
Tab Select Field  
F1  
General Help  
System Information  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.  
2.3.1  
System Time [xx:xx:xx]  
Allows you to set the system time.  
2.3.2  
System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]  
Allows you to set the system date.  
2.3.3  
Language [English]  
Allows you to choose the display language in BIOS.  
Configuration options: [繁體中文] [简体中文] [日本] [Français] [Deutsch] [English]  
2.3.3  
SATA1-6  
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. There  
is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to  
display the SATA device information.  
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, Vendor, Size,  
LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART Monitoring). These  
values are not user-configurable. These items show N/A if no Serial ATA device is installed in  
the system.  
Type [Auto]  
Selects the type of SATA drive. Setting to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the appropriate  
SATA device type. Select [CDROM] if you are specifically configuring a CD-ROM drive. Select  
[ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive.  
Configuration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD]  
This item does not appear if you select SATA 5/6 devices.  
2-8  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
 
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]  
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the device  
supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode disabled.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]  
Block (Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto]  
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data transfer from  
and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer  
feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector  
at a time. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]  
PIO Mode [Auto]  
Selects the PIO mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]  
DMA Mode [Auto]  
Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto]  
SMART Monitoring [Auto]  
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]  
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.3.4  
Storage Configuration  
The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the SATA devices  
installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to configure the item.  
SATA Configuration [Enhanced]  
Allows you to set the SATA configuration. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Compatible]  
[Enhanced]  
Configure SATA as [IDE]  
Sets the configuration for the Serial ATA connectors supported by the Southbridge chip.  
Configuration options: [IDE] [RAID] [AHCI]  
Due to Intel chipset driver support regulation, the AHCI mode is not supported in Windows  
XP environment. The AHCI mode is only supported by Windows Vista with OS built-in  
driver.  
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled]  
Disables or enables device write protection. This will be effective only if device is accessed  
throuh BIOS. Configuration option: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35]  
Selects the time out value for detecting ATA/ATAPI devices.  
Configuration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35]  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-9  
 
2.3.5  
System Information  
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS  
automatically detects the items in this menu.  
Bios Information  
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.  
Processor  
Displays the auto-detected CPU specification.  
System Memory  
Displays the auto-detected system memory.  
2.4  
Ai Tweaker menu  
The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system  
devices.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Configure System Performance Settings  
[D.O.C.P.]  
It’s designed to  
overclock DRAM  
frequency by  
Ai Overclock Tuner  
CPU Ratio Setting  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech [Enabled]  
adjusting BCLK  
frequency. [X.M.P.]  
When X.M.P. is  
enabled BLCK  
frequency, CPU  
ratio and memory  
parameters will be  
auto optimized.  
Intel(R) TurboMode Tech  
[Enabled]  
Xtreme Phase Full Power Mode [Auto]  
DRAM Frequency  
QPI Frequency  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
DRAM Timing Control  
CPU Differential Amplitude  
CPU Clock Skew  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
******* Please key in numbers directly! *******  
+-  
Change Field  
VCORE Over Voltage  
IMC Voltage  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[16V]  
Tab Select Field  
F1  
General Help  
DRAM Voltage  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
CPU PLL Voltage  
[Auto]  
v02.61 (C) Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Power Boot  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Tools  
Exit  
Min = 1.050V  
PCH Voltage  
[Auto]  
Max = 1.150V  
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]  
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]  
Standard = 1.050V  
Increment = 0.010V  
+/- : Raise/Reduce  
************************************************  
Load-Line Calibration [Auto]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Field  
Tab Select Field  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C) Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.  
2-10  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
 
Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]  
Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency.  
Select either one of the preset overclocking configuration options:  
Manual - Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.  
Auto - Loads the optimal settings for the system.  
D.O.C.P. - Overclocks DRAM frequency by adjusting BCLK frequency.  
X.M.P. - If you install memory module(s) supporting the eXtreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.)  
Technology, choose this item to set the profile(s) supported by your memory  
module(s) for optimizing the system performance.  
The configuration options for the following sub-items vary depending on the DIMMs you  
install on the motherboard.  
DRAM O.C. Profile [DDR3-1600MHz]  
This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock Tuner item to [D.O.C.P.] and  
allows you to select a DRAM O.C. profile, which applies different settings to DRAM  
frequency, DRAM timing and DRAM voltage.  
Configuration options: [DDR3-1600MHz] [DDR3-1800MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR3-  
2000MHz] [DDR3-2133MHz]  
eXtreme Memory Profile [Disabled]  
This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock Tuner item to [X.M.P.]  
To obtain the best performance of the X.M.P. DIMM or 1600MHz DIMM, install only one  
DIMM on each memory channel.  
BCLK Frequency [XXX]  
Allows you to adjust the CPU operating frequency to enhance the system performance.  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value  
using the numeric keypad. The values range from 133 to 500. This item appears only  
when you set the Ai Overclock Tuner item to [Manual] or [D.O.C.P.]  
PCIE Frequency [XXX]  
Allows you to set the PCI Express frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the  
PCIE frequency. You can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The  
values range from 100 to 160. This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock  
Tuner item to [Manual] or [D.O.C.P.]  
CPU Ratio Setting [Auto]  
Allows you to adjust the ratio between CPU Core Clock and BCLK Frequency. Use the <+>  
and <-> keys to adjust the value. The valid value ranges differently according to your CPU  
model.  
Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech [Enabled]  
When set to [Disabled], the CPU runs at its default speed. When set to [Enabled], the CPU  
speed is controlled by the operating system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-11  
Intel(R) TurboMode Tech [Enabled]  
This item appears only if you set the Ratio CMOS Setting item to [Auto]. Turbo mode allows  
processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific condition. Configuration  
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Xtreme Phase Full Power Mode [Auto]  
[Auto]  
Automatic configuration.  
[Enabled] Enables Full Power Mode to ensure the best CPU overclocking performance.  
DRAM Frequency [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DDR3 operating frequency. Configuration options: [Auto]  
[DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz] [DDR3-1333MHz]  
The DRAM Frequency configuration options vary with the BCLK Frequency item settings.  
Selecting a very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this  
happens, revert to the default setting.  
QPI Frequency [Auto]  
Allows you to set the QPI operating frequency.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4270MHz] [4800MHz]  
DRAM Timing Control  
Allows you to select the DRAM timing configuration. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]  
The configuration options for some of the following items vary depending on the DIMMs  
you install on the motherboard.  
1st Information: 9-9-9-24-4-60-10-7-20  
DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clock] - [11 DRAM Clocks]  
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]  
DRAM RAS# PRE [Auto]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clock] - [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM RAS# ACT [Auto]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clock] - [17 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] - [7 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [48 DRAM Clock] [60 DRAM Clock] [72 DRAM Clock]  
[82 DRAM Clock] [88 DRAM Clock] [90 DRAM Clock] [100 DRAM Clock] [110 DRAM  
Clock] [114 DRAM Clock] [118 DRAM Clock] [122 DRAM Clock] [126 DRAM Clock]  
[130 DRAM Clock] [134 DRAM Clock] [138 DRAM Clock]  
2-12  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
DRAM Writer Recovery Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] - [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM Read to PRE Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [3 DRAM Clock] - [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] - [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM Back-To-Back CAS# Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] - [32 DRAM Clock]  
2nd Information: 1N-46-0  
DRAM Timing Mode [Auto]  
Configuration options: [1N] [2N] [3N]  
RAM Round Trip Latency on CHA [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 15 Clock]–[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal]  
[Delay 1 Clock]-[Delay 15 Clock]  
DRAM Round Trip Latency on CHB [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 15 Clock]–[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal]  
[Delay 1 Clock]-[Delay 15 Clock]  
3rd Information: 8-8-25-17-17-17-9-9-6-9-9-6  
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(DD) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] – [8 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(DR) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] – [8 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(SR) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [10 DRAM Clock] – [22 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM READ to WRITE Delay(DD) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 DRAM Clock] – [14 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM READ to WRITE Delay(DR) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 DRAM Clock] – [14 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM READ to WRITE Delay(SR) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 DRAM Clock] – [14 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM READ to READ Delay(DD) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 DRAM Clock] – [9 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM READ to READ Delay(DR) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 DRAM Clock] – [9 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM READ to READ Delay(SR) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] [6 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM WRITE to WRITE Delay(DD) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 DRAM Clock] – [9 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM WRITE to WRITE Delay(DR) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 DRAM Clock] – [9 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM WRITE to WRITE Delay(SR) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] [6 DRAM Clock]  
CPU Differential Amplitude [Auto]  
Different AMP might enhance BCLK overclocking ability.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [700mV] [800mV] [900mV] [1000mV]  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-13  
CPU Clock Skew [Auto]  
Adjusting this item may help enhancing BCLK overclocking ability. You may need to adjust the  
NB Clock Skew item at the same time.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Normal] [Delay 100ps]–[Delay 1500ps]  
VCore Over Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CPU vCore over voltage. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Max.=0.63V] [Min.=0.01V]  
Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU vCore voltage. Setting a high  
voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the system  
unstable.  
IMC Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CPU Integrated Memory Controller voltage. Use the <+> and <-> keys to  
adjust the value. Configuration options: [Auto] [Max.=1.45V] [Min.=1.10V]  
DRAM Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Max.=2.145V] [Min.=1.200V]  
CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CPU PLL voltage. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Max.=2.100V] [Min.=1.800V]  
PCH Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the Platform Controller Hub voltage. Configuration options: [Auto]  
[Max.=1.155V] [Min.=1.050V]  
The values of the IMC Voltage, DRAM Voltage, and CPU PLL Voltage items are labeled  
in different color, indicating the risk levels of high voltage settings. Refer to the table  
below for details.  
The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high voltage settings.  
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/B [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA Reference Voltage on Channel A/B/C. The values  
range from 0.395x to 0.630x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM  
overclocking ability.  
Load-Line Calibration [Auto]  
[Auto]  
Automatic configuration.  
[Disabled] Follow Intel specifications.  
[Enabled] Improve CPU VDroop directly.  
2-14  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
2.5  
Advanced menu  
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system  
devices.  
Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field  
values can cause the system to malfunction.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Configure CPU.  
CPU Configuration  
Chipset  
Onboard Devices Configuration  
USB Configuration  
PCIPnP  
Intel VT-d  
[Dissabled]  
2.5.1  
CPU Configuration  
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically  
detects.  
CPU Ratio Setting [Auto]  
Sets the ration between CPU core clock and the FSB frequency. Key in ratio numbers  
directly.  
If an invalid ratio is set in CMOS, then the actual and set values may differ.  
C1E Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable C1E Support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]  
Setting this item to [Enabled] allows the processor to fetch data and instructions from the  
memory into the cache that are likely to be required in the near future. This reduces the  
latency associated with memory reads. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]  
When this item is set to [Enabled], the processor fetches the currently requested cache line,  
as well as the subsequent cache line. This reduces the cache latency by making the next  
cache line immediately available if the processor requires it as well. When set to [Disabled],  
the processor fetches only the currently requested cache line. Configuration options:  
[Disabled] [Enabled]  
Max CPUID Value Limit [Disabled]  
Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support  
for CPUs with extended CPUID functions. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-15  
 
Intel® Virtualization Tech [Enabled]  
Enables or disables Intel® Virtualization Technology. Virtualization enhanced by Intel®  
Virtualization Technology allows a platform to run multiple operating systems and applications  
in independent partitions. With virtualization, one computer system can function as multiple  
virtual systems. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
CPU TM function [Enabled]  
Enables or disables Intel® CPU Thermal Monitor (TM) function, a CPU overheating protection  
function. When enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage are reduced when the CPU  
overheats. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Execute-Disable Bit Capability [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the No-Execution Page Protection Technology. Setting this  
item to [Disabled] forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0). Configuration  
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Active Processor Cores [All]  
Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.  
Configuration options: [All] [1] [2]  
A20M [Disabled]  
Setting this item to [Enabled] allows Legacy OSes to be compatible with APs. Configuration  
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following item appears only when you installed an Intel® CPU that supports the  
Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep® Technology (EIST).  
Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech [Enabled]  
When set to [Disabled], the CPU runs at its default speed. When set to [Enabled], the CPU  
speed is controlled by the operating system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Intel(R) TurboMode Tech [Enabled]  
This item appears only if you set the CPU Ratio Setting item to [Auto]. Turbo mode allows  
processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific condition. Configuration  
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Intel(R) C-STATE Tech [Disabled]  
Allows you enable or disable the Intel® C-STATE Technology. When enabled, the CPU idle is  
set to C2/C3/C4/C6. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2-16  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
2.5.2  
Chipset  
The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then  
press <Enter> to display the submenu.  
Memory Remap Feature [Enabled]  
Allows you to enabled or disable the remapping of the overlapped PCI memory above the  
total physical memory. Enable this option only when you install 64-bit operating system.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.5.3  
Onboard Devices Configuration  
HDA Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the high definition audio controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Front Panel Type [HD Audio]  
Allows you to select the front panel type. If High Definition Audio Front Panel used,  
please set HD Audio mode. Configuration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]  
Onboard LAN [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the boot ROM in the onboard LAN controller. This item  
appears only when the Onboard LAN item is set to Enabled. Configuration options:  
[Disabled] [Enabled]  
Onboard IDE Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard IDE controller. Configuration options: [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
1394 Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the 1394 controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]  
Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4] [2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]  
Parallel Port Address [378]  
Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses. Configuration options: [Disabled] [378]  
[278] [3BC]  
Parallel Port Mode [Normal]  
Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode.  
Configuration options: [Normal] [Bi-Directional] [EPP] [ECP]  
ECP Mode DMA Channel [DMA3]  
Appears only when the Parallel Port Mode item is set to [ECP]. This item allows you to  
set the Parallel Port ECP DMA. Configuration options: [DMA0] [DMA1] [DMA3]  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-17  
 
EPP Version [1.9]  
Appears only when the Parallel Port Mode item is set to [EPP]. This item allows you to  
select the EPP version. Configuration options: [1.9] [1.7]  
Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]  
Allows you to select parallel port IRQ. Configuration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]  
2.5.4  
USB Configuration  
The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then  
press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show the auto-detected values. If no  
USB device is detected, the item shows None.  
USB Functions [Enabled]  
Allows you to disable or enable the USB functions. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Legacy USB Support [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable support for Legacy USB storage devices, including USB  
flash drives and USB hard drives. Setting to [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence  
of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB  
device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled] [Auto]  
BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the BIOS EHCI Hand-off function.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following items may only appear when a USB storage device is plugged.  
USB Mass Storage Device Configuration  
USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec]  
Allows you to set the maximum time that the BIOS waits for the USB storage device to  
initialize. Configuration options: [10 Sec] [20 Sec] [30 Sec] [40 Sec]  
Emulation Type [Auto]  
Allows you to set the emulation type. Configuration options: [Auto] [Floppy] [Forced FDD]  
[Hard Disk] [CDROM]  
2-18  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
 
2.5.5  
PCI PnP  
The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices.  
The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA  
devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices.  
Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect field values  
can cause the system to malfunction.  
Plug and Play O/S [No]  
When set to [No], BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to [Yes] and if you  
install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system configures the Plug and Play  
devices not required for boot. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]  
2.5.6  
Intel VT-d [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel® Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-19  
 
2.6  
Power menu  
The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power  
Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Select the ACPI state  
used for System  
Suspend.  
Suspend Mode  
ACPI 2.0 Support  
ACPI APIC Support  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
APM Configuration  
Hardware Monitor  
2.6.1  
Suspend Mode [Auto]  
Allows you to select the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used  
for system suspend. Configuration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]  
[S1(POS) Only] - Enables the system to enter the ACPI S1 (Power on Suspend) sleep  
state. In S1 sleep state, the system appears suspended and stays in a low power  
mode. The system can be resumed at any time.  
[S3 Only] - Enables the system to enter the ACPI S3 (Suspend to RAM) sleep state  
(default). In S3 sleep state, the system appears to be off and consumes less power  
than in the S1 state. When signaled by a wake-up device or event, the system resumes  
to its working state exactly where it was left off.  
[Auto] - Detected by OS.  
2.6.2  
ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to add more tables for Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) 2.0  
specifications. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.6.3  
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI)  
support in the Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). When set to Enabled, the ACPI  
APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
2.6.4  
APM Configuration  
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]  
When set to [Power Off], the system goes into off state after an AC power loss. When set  
to [Power On], the system goes on after an AC power loss. When set to [Last State], the  
system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power  
loss. Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]  
Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this item is set to  
Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date, RTC Alarm Hour, RTC Alarm Minute, and RTC Alarm  
Second appear with set values. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2-20  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
 
Power On By External Modems [Disabled]  
This allows either settings of [Enabled] or [Disabled] for powering up the computer when  
the external modem receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode. Configuration  
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On PCI Devices [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to wake the system through a PCI LAN  
or modem card. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the  
+5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On PCIE Devices [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to wake the system through a PCI Express  
card. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB  
lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]  
Allows you to use specific keys on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature  
requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration  
options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key]  
Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn on the  
system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB  
lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.6.5  
Hardware Monitor  
CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] or [Ignored]  
MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] or [Ignored]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and  
CPU temperatures. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.  
CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan speed in  
rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows  
N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected speed.  
CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Q-Fan control. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Chassis Fan Speed [Ignored] or [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the Chassis fan speed in  
rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows  
N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected speed.  
CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage [xxxV] or [Ignored]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard  
voltage regulators.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-21  
 
2.7  
Boot menu  
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then  
press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Specifies the Boot  
Device Priority  
sequence.  
Boot Settings  
Boot Device Priority  
A virtual drive (Drive  
B:) may appear when you  
set the CD-ROM drive as  
the first boot device.  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Security  
2.7.1  
Boot Device Priority  
1st ~ xxth Boot Device  
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The  
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices  
installed in the system. Configuration options: [Removable Dev.] [Hard Drive]  
[ATAPI CD-ROM] [Disabled]  
2.7.2  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Quick Boot [Enabled]  
Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while booting to  
decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled], BIOS performs all the  
POST items. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]  
This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration  
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo2feature.  
AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]  
Sets the display mode for option ROM. Configuration options: [Force BIOS]  
[Keep Current]  
Bootup Num-Lock [On]  
Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock.  
Configuration options: [Off] [On]  
2-22  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
 
Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]  
When set to Enabled, the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error occurs.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]  
When set to [Enabled], the system displays the message Press DEL to run Setup during  
POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.7.3  
Security  
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item  
then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
Change Supervisor Password  
Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item  
on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item  
shows Installed.  
To set a Supervisor Password:  
1.  
Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.  
2.  
On the password box, key in a password containing up to six letters, or numbers, or  
both, then press <Enter>.  
3.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
The message Password Installed appears after you successfully set your password.  
To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps in setting a supervisor password.  
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press  
<Enter> twice. The message Password uninstalled appears.  
If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock  
(RTC) RAM. See section 1.9 Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.  
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change  
other security settings.  
User Access Level [Full Access]  
This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.  
Configuration options: [No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]  
[No Access] - prevents user access to the Setup utility.  
[View Only] - allows access but does not allow change to any field.  
[Limited] - allows changes only to selected fields, such as Date and Time.  
[Full Access] - allows viewing and changing all the fields in the Setup utility.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-23  
 
Change User Password  
Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the  
screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.  
To set a User Password:  
1.  
Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.  
2.  
On the password box, key in a password containing up to six letters, or numbers, or  
both, then press <Enter>.  
3.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
The message Password Installed appears after you set your password successfully.  
To change the user password, follow the same steps in setting a user password.  
Clear User Password  
Select this item to clear the user password.  
Password Check [Setup]  
When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. When  
set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the  
system. Configuration options: [Setup] [Always]  
2-24  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
2.8  
Tools menu  
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then  
press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
AI NET 2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Express Gate  
[Auto]  
[10 Seconds]  
[No]  
Enter OS Timer  
Reset User Data  
2.8.1  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
Add Your CMOS Profile  
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. In the Name sub-item, type your  
profile name and press <Enter>, and then choose a profile number to save your CMOS  
settings in the Save to sub-item.  
Load CMOS Profile  
Allows youu to load the previous BIOS settings saved in thee BIOS Flash. Press <Enter>,  
and choose a profile to load.  
Start O.C. Profile  
Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to runt the utility.  
ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility V4.00a  
Current CMOS  
Restore CMOS  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
BOARD: P7P55M  
VER: 0157  
DATE: 09/23/2009  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
[Tab] Switch  
[B] Backup  
[V] Drive Info  
[ESC] Exit  
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT32/16 format and  
single partition only.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system  
boot failure!  
We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/CPU  
configuration and BIOS version.  
Only the CMO file can be loaded.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-25  
 
2.8.2  
AI NET 2  
Check Realtek LAN cable [Disabled]  
Enables or disables checking of the Realtek LAN cable during the Power-On Self-Test  
(POST). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.8.3  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message  
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to  
confirm your choice. Please see section 2.1.2 for details.  
2.8.4  
Express Gate [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. The ASUS Express Gate  
feature is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick access to the Internet browser  
and Skype. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto]  
Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds]  
Sets countdown duration that the system waits at the Express Gate’s first screen  
before starting Windows or other installed OS. Choose [Prompt User] to stay at the  
first screen of Express Gate for user action.  
Configuration options: [Prompt User] [1 second] [3 seconds] [5 seconds]  
[10 seconds] [15 seconds] [20 seconds] [30 seconds]  
Reset User Data [No]  
Allows you to clear Express Gate’s user data.  
Configuration options: [No] [Reset]  
When setting this item to [Reset], make sure to save the setting to the BIOS so that  
the user data will be cleared the next time you enter the Express Gate. User data  
includes the Express Gate’s settings as well as any personal information stored by the  
web browser (bookmarks, cookies, browsing history, etc.). This is useful in the rare  
case where corrupt settings prevent the Express Gate environment from launching  
properly.  
The first time wizard will run again when you enter the Express Gate environment after  
clearing its settings.  
2-26  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  
 
2.9  
Exit menu  
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS  
items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Exit Options  
Exit system setup  
after saving the  
cahnges.  
Exit & Save Changes  
Exit & Discard Changes  
Discard Changes  
F10 key can be used  
for this operation.  
Load Setup Defaults  
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this  
menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.  
Exit & Save Changes  
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to  
ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery  
sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this  
option, a confirmation window appears. Select OK to save changes and exit.  
Exit & Discard Changes  
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup  
program. If you made changes to fields other than System Date, System Time, and  
Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.  
Discard Changes  
This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved  
values. After selecting this option, a confirmation appears. Select OK to discard any changes  
and load the previously saved values.  
Load Setup Defaults  
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup  
menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation window appears.  
Select OK to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes  
before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.  
ASUS P7P55-M  
2-27  
 
2-28  
Chapter 2: BIOS information  

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