Asus Motherboard P9X79LE User Manual

P9X79 LE  
Contents  
iii  
Contents  
iv  
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®..................................4-37  
AMD® CrossFireX™ technology ...............................................................5-1  
Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology.............................5-4  
Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology .....................................5-8  
v
Safety information  
Electrical safety  
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet  
before relocating the system.  
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables  
for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,  
disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.  
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all  
power cables are unplugged.  
Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices  
could interrupt the grounding circuit.  
Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not  
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power  
company.  
If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service  
technician or your retailer.  
Operation safety  
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals  
that came with the package.  
Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power  
cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.  
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,  
slots, sockets and circuitry.  
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area  
where it may become wet.  
Place the product on a stable surface.  
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service  
technician or your retailer.  
vi  
 
About this guide  
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the  
motherboard.  
How this guide is organized  
This guide contains the following parts:  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it  
supports.  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when  
installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and  
connectors on the motherboard.  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.  
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.  
Chapter 4: Software support  
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the  
motherboard package and the software.  
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support  
This chapter describes how to install and configure multiple ATI® CrossFireX™ and  
NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.  
Where to find more information  
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.  
1.  
ASUS websites  
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software  
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.  
2.  
Optional documentation  
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers,  
that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the  
standard package.  
vii  
 
Conventions used in this guide  
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used  
throughout this manual.  
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to  
complete a task.  
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to  
complete a task  
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task..  
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.  
Typography  
Bold text  
Italics  
Indicates a menu or an item to select.  
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.  
<Key>  
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means that you must  
press the enclosed key.  
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key.  
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3>  
If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key names are linked  
with a plus sign (+).  
viii  
P9X79 LE specifications summary  
CPU  
2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor family for the LGA  
2011 Socket  
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0  
* Refer to www.asus.com for CPU support list  
Intel® X79 Express Chipset  
Chipset  
Memory  
8 x DIMM, max. 64GB, DDR3 2400(O.C.) / 2133(O.C.) /  
1866/ 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered  
memory  
Quad channel memory architecture  
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)  
** Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics  
of individual CPUs.  
** Refer to www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualified  
Vendors Lists).  
Expansion slots  
2 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots (Dual at x16/ x16 mode, Triple at  
x16/ x16/ x8)  
1 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIe x16_3 at x8 mode)  
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots  
1 x PCI slot  
* This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Functions  
will be available when using PCIe 3.0-compliant devices. Please  
refer to www.asus.com for updated details.  
Multi-GPU support  
Storage  
Supports NVIDIA® 3-Way SLI™ Technology  
Supports AMD® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology  
Intel® X79 Express Chipset  
-
-
2 x SATA 6 Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 support  
4 x SATA 3 Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 support  
ASMedia® 1061 SATA controller  
2 x eSATA 6Gb/s ports  
-
LAN  
USB  
Realtek® 8111F Gigabit LAN Controller  
2 x ASMedia® USB 3.0 controllers  
-
-
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support  
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at back panel (Blue)  
Intel® X79 Express Chipset  
-
14 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
(6 ports at mid-board; 8 ports at back panel)  
Audio  
Realtek® ALC892 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC  
-
-
-
Support 192khz / 24bit BD Lossless Sound  
BD Audio Layer Content Protection  
Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-Streaming and  
Front Panel Jack-Retasking  
-
Optical S/PDIF Out port at back I/O  
(continued on the next page)  
ix  
 
P9X79 LE specifications summary  
ASUS exclusive  
Precision Tweaker 2:  
overclocking features  
-
-
-
-
-
-
vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.005V increment  
vTTCPU: Adjustable I/O voltage at 0.00625V increment  
vCCSA: 255-step system agent voltage control  
vDRAM Bus: 160-step Memory voltage control  
vPCH: 96-step Chipset voltage control  
vCPU_PLL: 48-step CPU & PCH PLL voltage control  
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):  
-
BCLK/PEG frequency tuning from 80MHz up to 300MHz at  
0.1MHz increment  
Overclocking Protection:  
ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)  
-
ASUS Unique Features  
ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 3  
with New DIGI+ Power Control:  
CPU Power  
-
-
Industry leading Digital 6+2 Phase Power Design  
CPU Power Utility  
DRAM Power  
-
-
Industry leading Digital 2+2 Phase Power Design  
DRAM Power Utility  
ASUS TPU  
-
Auto Tuning, TurboV  
ASUS EPU  
-
EPU Utility  
ASUS Exclusive Features:  
-
ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user  
interface  
-
-
-
-
-
USB 3.0 Boost  
MemOK!  
Remote GO!  
AI Suite II  
Ai Charger  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:  
-
-
ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish Heat-sink solution  
ASUS Fan Xpert+  
ASUS EZ DIY:  
-
USB BIOS Flashback with USB BIOS Flashback Wizard for  
EZ BIOS download scheduling  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
ASUS MyLogo 2  
Percision Tweaker 2  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
DirectKey  
Multi-language BIOS  
ASUS Q-Design:  
-
-
-
-
-
ASUS Q-Shield  
ASUS Q-Slot  
ASUS Q-DIMM  
ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)  
ASUS Q-Connector  
(continued on the next page)  
x
P9X79 LE specifications summary  
Back panel I/O ports  
1 x PS/2 Keyboard port  
1 x PS/2 Mouse port  
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)  
8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port  
1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port  
2 x eSATA 6Gb/s ports (red)  
8-channel Audio I/O  
Internal I/O connectors  
3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB ports  
2 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors  
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors  
1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin)  
1 x CPU Optional Fan connector (4-pin)  
4 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin)  
1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)  
1 x COM connector  
1 x TPM connector  
1 x S/PDIF Out header  
1 x Clear CMOS jumper  
1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector  
1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector  
1 x System Panel (Q-Connector)  
1 x MemOK! button  
1 x DirectKey button  
1 x DRCT header  
1 x USB BIOS Flashback button  
BIOS features  
64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0,  
SM BIOS 2.6, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS,  
ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3  
Manageability  
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE  
Support DVD contents  
Drivers  
ASUS Utilities  
ASUS Update  
Anti-virus software (OEM version)  
Form factor  
ATX form factor: 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)  
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
xi  
xii  
Chapter 1  
Chapter 1:  
Product introduction  
1.1  
Welcome!  
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P9X79 LE motherboard!  
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another  
standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!  
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in  
your package with the list below.  
1.2  
Package contents  
Check your motherboard package for the following items.  
User Manual  
ASUS P9X79 LE motherboard  
User guide  
Support DVD  
2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables  
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables  
1 x ASUS Q-Shield  
1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge  
connector  
1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit  
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.  
The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specifications may  
vary with different models.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
1-1  
 
1.3  
Special features  
1.3.1  
Product highlights  
2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor family for the LGA 2011 Socket  
This motherboard supports the latest 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Family in  
LGA2011 package, with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to quad-channel  
(8 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 40 PCI Express 3.0 lanes. This provides great graphics  
performance. 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Family is one of the most powerful  
and energy efficient CPUs in the world.  
Intel® X79 Express Chipset  
The Intel® X79 Express Chipset is the latest single-chipset design that supports the new  
socket 2011 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Family. It improves performance by  
utilizing serial point-to-point links, allowing for increased bandwidth and stability. Additionally,  
the X79 comes with 2 SATA 6Gb/s and 4 SATA 3Gb/s ports for faster data retrieval, doubling  
the bandwidth of current bus systems.  
3-Way SLI™ and Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Support  
Both SLI and CrossfireX architectures work flawlessly on new ASUS X79 boards, with PCI  
Express slots designed to accommodate the power of up to three current graphics cards.  
Whether for professional graphics work, heavy duty multimedia or dedicated gaming, more  
than ample graphics power can be applied whenever needed.  
Quad-Channel DDR3 2400(O.C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz Support  
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 2400(O.  
C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of  
the latest operation system, 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The quad-  
channel DDR3 architecture quadruple the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system  
performance.  
* Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200/2000/1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3 2133/1866/1600  
MHz frequency as default.  
Complete USB 3.0 Integration  
ASUS facilitates strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear panel – 4 USB 3.0  
ports in total. Experience the latest plug & play connectivity at speeds up to 10 times faster  
than USB 2.0. The P9X79 LE affords greater convenience to high speed connectivity.  
PCIe 3.0 Ready  
The latest PCI Express bus standard delivers improved encoding for twice the performance  
of current PCIe 2.0. Total bandwidth for a x16 link reaches a maximum of 32GB/s, double  
the 16GB/s of PCIe 2.0 (in x16 mode). PCIe 3.0 provides users unprecedented data speeds,  
combined with the convenicnce and seamless transition offered by complete backward  
compatibility with PCIe 1.0 and PCIe 2.0 devices. It is a must-have feature PC users aiming  
to improve and optimize graphics performance, as well as have the latest, most future-proof  
technology.  
* This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Functions will be available when using PCIe  
3.0-compliant devices. Please refer to www.asus.com for updated details.  
1-2  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
 
1.3.2  
Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with New DIGI+ Power Control  
The world’s first Dual Intelligent Processors from ASUS pioneered twin onboard chips  
- TPU (TurboV Processing Unit) and EPU (Energy Processing Unit). Third generation  
Dual Intelligent Processors with New DIGI+ Power Control include two digital voltage  
regulator modules (VRMs). An all-new digital controller now allows ultra-precise DRAM  
tuning in addition to CPU voltage control. This evolution of innovative and industry-leading  
ASUS technology provides super-accurate voltage tuning for better efficiency, stability and  
performance.  
New DIGI+ Power Control  
All-New Digital Power Control for both CPU and DRAM  
ASUS X79 motherboards include New DIGI+ Power Control with two digital voltage regulator  
modules (VRMs), including an all-new DRAM controller that allows ultra-precise memory  
tuning in addition to CPU voltage control. This evolution of innovative, industry-leading ASUS  
technology provides super-accurate voltages for better efficiency, stability and performance.  
Best in class power efficiency and stability  
Two critical components work perfectly together to match digital power signal (SVID) requests  
from the CPU, with ultra-fast sensing and response to efficiently deliver the right level of  
power on demand. Accurate power reduces wasteful imprecision, and provides more stable  
CPU Vcore voltages.  
Increased CPU and DRAM overclocking range  
With programmable digital controllers onboard, users can adjust CPU and DRAM PWM  
voltages and frequencies for various overclocking scenarios, with accurate input through  
UEFI BIOS tuning or the exclusive ASUS interface. System performance can also be  
customized with specific CPU and DRAM power controls, including new VCCSA load line  
calibration for increased voltage range, greater VCCSA current capability, and up to 30%  
more capacitance. This proprietary design, with its precise yet flexible power adjustments,  
increases overclocking headroom to push performance to its full potential.  
TPU  
Unleash your performance with ASUS’ simple onboard switch or AI Suite II utility. The TPU  
chip offers precise voltage control and advanced monitoring through Auto Tuning and TurboV  
functions. Auto tuning offers a user friendly way to automatically optimize the system for fast,  
yet stable clock speeds, while TurboV enables unlimited freedom to adjust CPU frequencies  
and ratios for optimized performance in diverse situations.  
EPU  
Tap into the world’s first real-time PC power saving chip through a simple onboard switch or  
AI Suite II utility. Get total system-wide energy optimization by automatically detecting current  
PC loadings and intelligently moderating power consumption. This also reduces fan noise  
and extends component longevity.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
1-3  
 
1.3.3  
ASUS Exclusive Features  
USB BIOS Flashback  
USB BIOS Flashback offers the most convenient way to flash the BIOS ever! It allows  
overclockers to try new BIOS versions easily, without even entering their existing BIOS or  
operating system. Just plug in USB storage and push the dedicated button for 3 seconds,  
and the BIOS is automatically flashed using standby power. Worry-free overclocking for the  
ultimate convenience!  
USB 3.0 Boost  
New ASUS USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol), the  
latest USB 3.0 standard. With USB 3.0 Boost, USB device transmission speed is significantly  
increased by up to 170%, adding to an already impressively fast USB 3.0 transfer speed.  
USB 3.0 Boost provides a user-friendly graphical interface, which instantly accelerates the  
transfer speeds for USB 3.0 peripherals with exclusive ASUS device auto-detect settings.  
DirectKey  
DirectKey allows you to conveniently go into the BIOS setup with the press of a button. With  
this feature, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press the <Del> key during  
POST. It also allows you to shut down or turn on your computer and directly enter the BIOS  
during boot-up.  
Remote GO!  
Remote GO! links PCs, tablets, smartphones and TVs wirelessly together through an existing  
LAN cable or router. It provides a seamless environment for a futuristic connected lifestyle  
with three useful functions: DLNA Media Hub, Remote Desktop and File Transfer.  
DLNA Media Hub: Enjoy HD video, music and photos stored in the PC streaming to your  
DLNA devices via Wi-Fi connectivity.  
Remote Desktop: Operate and control your PC in real-time from a smartphone or tablet for  
complete comfort and convenience.  
File Transfer: Send and share files between your PC and smart devices* with only a right  
click on the mouse.  
*iPad/iPhone can send, but not receive files from the PC.  
AI Suite II  
With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all exclusive ASUS features  
into one simple-to-use package with an elegant design theme. It allows users to supervise  
overclocking, energy management, fan speeds, voltage, and sensor readings. This all-in-  
one software offers diverse and easy to use functions, with no need to switch back and forth  
between different utilities.  
MemOK!  
MemOK! quickly ensures memory boot compatibility. This remarkable memory rescue tool  
requires a mere push of a button to patch memory issues. MemOK! determines failsafe  
settings and dramatically improves your system boot success.  
1-4  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
 
1.3.4  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution  
ASUS Fanless Design—Heat-sink solution  
The stylish heatsink offers 0dB cooling for a quiet PC environment. Attractive design  
enhances the look of the board and case, while temperatures in the chipset and power phase  
areas stay lower through high efficiency heat exchange. Combining usability and aesthetics,  
the stylish ASUS heatsink gives users an extremely silent and cool experience with elegant  
design.  
ASUS Fan Xpert+  
Hardware-level ASUS Fan Xpert+ allows users to independently adjust both CPU and case  
fan speeds with multiple dedicated controllers based on different ambient temperatures,  
climate conditions and system loads. Built-in profiles offer flexible automatic and manual fan  
speed controls to achieve a quiet and cool computing environment.  
1.3.5  
ASUS EZ DIY  
ASUS UEFI BIOS  
ASUS UEFI BIOS offers the first mouse-controlled graphical BIOS designed with selectable  
modes, providing a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-only  
controls. It also natively supports fully-utilized hard drives larger than 2.2TB in 64-bit  
operating systems.  
ASUS exclusive interface  
EZ Mode displays frequently-accessed info. Users can choose system performance settings  
and drag and drop boot priorities. Advanced Mode for performance enthusiasts includes  
detailed DRAM settings via a dedicated memory info page for complete insight.  
New upgrade! Quick and easy info for enhanced system control  
- F12 BIOS snapshot hotkey for sharing UEFI setup info and troubleshooting  
- New F3 Shortcut for most accessed info  
- ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) Information for accessing memory info,  
detecting faulty DIMMs and helping with difficult POST situations.  
ASUS Q-Design  
ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-LED, Q-Slot, and Q-DIMM design  
speed up and simplify the DIY process!  
ASUS Q-Shield  
The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual "fingers" - making it  
convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your  
motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference  
(EMI).  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
1-5  
 
ASUS Q-Connector  
ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables  
to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the trouble of connecting the system  
panel cables one at a time and avoiding wrong cable connections.  
ASUS EZ-Flash 2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a  
bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility.  
1.3.6  
Other special features  
eSATA 6Gb/s Ready  
eSATA 6Gb/s can let users enjoy 2X faster transfer rates on external SATA 6Gb/s devices.  
ASUS provides two extra ports with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the  
bandwidth of current bus systems for extra speed and accessibility.  
ErP Ready  
The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires  
products to meet certain energy efficiency requirement in regards to energy consumptions.  
This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efficient products  
through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus  
mitigate environmental impacts.  
1-6  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
 
Chapter 2  
Chapter 2:  
Hardware information  
2.1  
Before you proceed  
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change  
any motherboard settings.  
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.  
Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded  
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due  
to static electricity.  
Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.  
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the  
bag that came with the component.  
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is  
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so  
may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-1  
 
2.2  
Motherboard overview  
2.2.1  
Motherboard layout  
Refer to 2.2.8 Internal connectors and 2.3.11 Rear panel connection for more  
information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.  
2-2  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
Layout contents  
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots  
Page  
2-5  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
DDR3 DIMM slots  
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)  
LGA2011 CPU socket  
2-29  
2-4  
CPU, CPU OPT, Chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN,  
4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)  
2-27  
5.  
6.  
7.  
MemOK!  
2-17  
2-25  
2-22  
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)  
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors  
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])  
8.  
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors  
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])  
2-23  
9.  
Standby Power LED  
2-19  
2-21  
2-28  
2-30  
2-25  
2-24  
2-19  
2-26  
2-18  
2-28  
2-26  
10.  
11.  
12.  
13.  
14.  
15.  
16.  
17.  
18.  
19.  
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)  
Direct Connector (2-pin DRCT)  
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)  
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112, USB1314)  
BIOS Flashback switch  
Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)  
DirectKey button  
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-3  
2.2.2  
Central Processing Unit (CPU)  
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA2011 socket designed for the 2nd  
Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Family.  
Ensure that all power cables are unplugged 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  
LGA2011 socket.  
The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from  
incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP  
cap.  
2-4  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.2.3  
System memory  
The motherboard comes with eight Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules  
(DIMM) slots.  
A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR  
or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.  
Recommended memory configurations  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-5  
 
Memory configurations  
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB unbuffered, and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the  
DIMM sockets.  
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A, B, C, and D. The system maps  
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel, triple-channel, or quad-  
channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then  
mapped for single-channel operation.  
Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200/2000/1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3  
2133/1866/1600 MHz frequency as default.  
According to Intel® spec, the max. 64GB memory capacity can be supported with  
DIMMs of 8GB (or above). ASUS will update QVL once the DIMMs are available on  
the market.  
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect  
the CPU.  
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we  
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.  
Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows OS, when you install 4GB  
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be  
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the  
following:  
- Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows OS.  
- Install a 64-bit Windows OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the  
motherboard.  
However, there are differences in memory support specifications on 64-bit Windows  
OS. Please visit www.Microsoft.com for more details.  
For more details, refer to the Microsoft® support site at  
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929605/en-us.  
This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less  
(Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB).  
The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect  
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.  
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a  
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked  
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.4 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory  
frequency adjustment.  
For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full  
memory load (4 DIMMs or above) or overclocking condition.  
2-6  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 2400 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
Chip Chip  
Brand NO.  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
SS/DS  
Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
A-DATA  
AX3U2400GC4G10(XMP)  
CMGTX3(XMP)  
4GB  
2GB  
DS  
DS  
SS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
10-11-11-30  
9-11-9-27  
1.65  
1.65  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CMGTX8(XMP)  
8GB  
10-12-10-30 1.65  
( 4x 2GB )  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
GEIL  
F3-19200CL10Q-32GBZHD(XMP)  
F3-19200CL11Q-16GBZHD(XMP)  
F3-19200CL11Q-16GBZHD(XMP)  
F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP)  
F3-19200CL9Q-16GBZMD(XMP)  
GOC316GB2400C10QC(XMP)  
KHX2400C11D3K4/8GX(XMP)  
PVV34G2400C9K(XMP)  
32GB  
( 4x 8GB )  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
10-12-12-31 1.65  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
11-11-11-31  
11-11-11-31  
9-11-9-28  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
1.66  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
4G  
( 2x 2G )  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
9-11-11-31  
10-11-11-30  
11-13-11-30  
9-11-9-27  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
Kingston  
Patriot  
8GB  
( 4x 2GB )  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
Transcend  
Transcend  
TX2400KLU-4GK (381850)(XMP)  
TX2400KLU-4GK(374243)(XMP)  
2GB  
2GB  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
1.65  
1.65  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 2200 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
Chip  
Brand  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
SS/DS  
Chip NO. Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
G.SKILL  
GEIL  
F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4G  
( 2x 2G )  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
7-10-10-28 1.65  
GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP)  
4GB  
9-10-9-28  
9-11-9-28  
-
1.65  
1.65  
-
( 2x 2GB )  
GEIL  
GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KJAA-FEIS(XMP)  
4GB  
Kingmax N/A  
( 2x 2GB )  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 2133 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
C h i p  
Brand  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
SS/DS  
Chip NO. Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
8154A 1044(XMP)  
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24  
9-11-9-27  
9-9-9-24  
1.55-1.75  
1.55~1.75  
1.55-1.75  
AX3U2133C2G9B(XMP)  
AX3U2133GC2G9B(XMP)  
AX3U2133GC4G9B(XMP)  
16GB  
( 4x  
4GB )  
9-11-9-27 1.65  
Apacer  
78.BAGE4.AFD0C(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x  
4GB )  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24  
9-10-9-24  
9-9-9-24  
-
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2A2133C9(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x  
2GB )  
1.65  
1.5  
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2B2133C9  
(Ver7.1)(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x  
2GB )  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-7  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 2133 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
C h i p  
Brand  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
SS/DS  
Chip NO. Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x  
2GB )  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-10-9-27  
1.5  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
F3-17000CL11Q2-64GBZLD(XMP) 64GB  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
11-11-11-30 1.5  
( 8x  
8GB )  
F3-17000CL9Q-16GBXLD(XMP)  
F3-17000CL9Q-16GBZH(XMP)  
F3-17066CL9D-8GBPID(XMP)  
16GB  
( 4x  
4GB )  
9-11-9-28  
1.65  
16GB  
( 4x  
4GB )  
9-11-10-28 1.65  
8GB  
( 2x  
4GB )  
9-9-9-24  
1.65  
KINGSTON KHX2133C11D3K4/16GX(XMP)  
16GB  
( 4x  
4GB )  
11-12-11-30 1.65  
Patriot  
PVV34G2133C9K(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x  
9-11-9-27  
1.66  
2GB )  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 2000 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
SS/ Chip  
DS Brand  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
Chip NO.  
Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
AEXEA  
AX3U2000GB2G9B(XMP) 2GB  
AX3U2000GC4G9B(XMP) 4GB  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-27  
9-11-9-27  
-
1.55~1.75  
1.55~1.75  
1.65  
AXA3ES2G2000LG28V  
(XMP)  
2GB  
AEXEA  
Apacer  
Asint  
AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V 4GB  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
1.65  
(XMP)  
( 2x 2GB )  
78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP)  
6GB  
(3 x 2GB)  
9-9-9-27  
-
SLA302G08-ML2HB  
(XMP)  
4GB  
DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFRH9C 9-9-9-27  
-
CORSAIR CMT6GX3M3A2000C8  
(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
8-9-8-24  
1.65  
CORSAIR CMZ4GX3M2A2000C10  
(Ver 5.12)(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
10-10-10-27 1.5  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
GEIL  
F3-16000CL9D-4GBRH  
(XMP)  
4GB  
(2 x 2GB)  
9-9-9-24  
9-9-9-24  
9-9-9-28  
7-7-7-20  
9-11-9-27  
-
1.65  
F3-16000CL9D-4GBTD  
(XMP)  
4GB  
(2 x 2GB)  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
-
GUP34GB2000C9DC  
(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
Patriot  
Patriot  
PV736G2000ELK  
(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
PX7312G2000ELK  
(XMP)  
12GB  
( 3x 4GB )  
Silicon  
Power  
SP002GBLYU200S02  
(XMP)  
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
4GB  
Team  
Team  
Team  
TXD32048M2000C9  
(XMP)  
DS Team T3D1288RT-20  
DS Team T3D1288LT-20  
DS Team T3D1288RT-20  
9-9-9-24  
9-9-9-24  
9-9-9-24  
-
1.5  
1.5  
1.6  
1.6  
TXD32048M2000C9-L  
(XMP)  
TXD32048M2000C9-L  
(XMP)  
Transcend TX2000KLN-8GK  
(388375)(XMP)  
DS  
-
-
2-8  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 1866 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
SS/ Chip  
DS Brand  
Vendors Part No.  
Size  
Chip NO.  
Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
AX3U1866GC2G9B(XMP)  
AX3U1866GC4G9B(XMP)  
2GB  
4GB  
SS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-27  
9-11-9-27  
9-10-9-27  
1.55~1.75  
1.55~1.75  
1.5  
CORSAIR CMT32GX3M4X1866C9  
(Ver3.23)(XMP)  
32GB  
(4x 8GB)  
CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M4X1866C10  
(Ver3.23)(XMP)  
32GB  
(4x 8GB)  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
10-11-10-27 1.5  
CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP)  
8GB  
(2x 4GB)  
9-10-9-27  
9-9-9-27  
1.5  
1.5  
Crucial  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
Patriot  
BLE4G3D1869DE1XT0.16FMD 4GB  
(XMP)  
F3-14900CL10Q2-64GBZLD  
(XMP)  
64GB  
(8x 8GB)  
10-11-10-30 1.5  
F3-14900CL9D-8GBSR  
(XMP)  
8GB  
(2x 4GB)  
9-10-9-28  
9-10-9-28  
9-10-9-28  
9-9-9-24  
9-9-9-24  
9-11-9-27  
9-9-9-24  
1.5  
F3-14900CL9Q-16GBXL  
(XMP)  
16GB  
(4x 4GB)  
1.5  
F3-14900CL9Q-16GBZL  
(XMP)  
16GB  
(4x 4GB)  
1.5  
F3-14900CL9Q-8GBFLD  
(XMP)  
8GB  
(2x 4GB)  
1.6  
PXD34G1866ELK(XMP)  
PXD38G1866ELK(XMP)  
PXD38G1866ELK(XMP)  
4GB  
(2x 2GB)  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
Patriot  
8GB  
(2x 4GB)  
Patriot  
8GB  
(2x 4GB)  
Team  
TXD34096M1866HC9K-L  
(XMP)  
4GB  
DS Hynix H5TC2G83BFRH9A 9-11-9-27  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 1800 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
Chip  
Brand  
Vendors Part No.  
Size  
SS/DS  
Chip NO. Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
G.SKILL F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP) 4GB (2 x 2GB) DS  
-
-
9-9-9-24  
1.6  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 1600 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
Vendors Part No.  
Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO.  
Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
A-DATA AM2U16BC2P1  
2GB SS  
4GB DS  
4GB DS  
4GB DS  
4GB DS  
4GB DS  
2GB DS  
4GB DS  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
-
3CCD-1509A  
-
-
-
-
A-DATA AM2U16BC4P2  
3CCD-1509A  
-
A-DATA AX3U1600GC4G9(XMP)  
A-DATA AX3U1600PC4G8(XMP)  
-
-
1.55~1.75  
-
8-8-8-24 1.55~1.75  
Asint  
Asint  
Asint  
ATP  
SLA302G08-EGG1C(XMP)  
SLA302G08-EGJ1C(XMP)  
SLZ3128M8-EGJ1D(XMP)  
AQ12M64B8BKK0S  
Asint  
Asint  
Asint  
SAMSUNG  
302G08-GG1C 9-9-9-27  
-
302G08-GJ1C  
3128M8-GJ1D  
K4B2G08460  
9-9-9-27  
-
-
-
-
NO  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-9  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 1600 MHz capability (continued)  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
SS/ Chip  
DS Brand  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
Chip NO.  
Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
Crucial  
CMG4GX3M2A1600C6  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
6-6-6-18 1.65  
CML16GX3M4X1600C8  
(Ver 2.12)(XMP)  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
Heat-Sink 1.5  
Package  
CMP6GX3M3A1600C8  
(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
8-8-8-24 1.65  
8-8-8-24 1.65  
7-8-7-20 1.65  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
CMP6GX3M3A1600C8  
(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
CMX6GX3M3C1600C7  
(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
CMZ16GX3M4A1600C9  
(XMP)  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
CMZ32GX3M4X1600C10  
(Ver2.2)(XMP)  
32GB  
( 4x 8GB )  
10-10-  
10-27  
1.5  
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C8  
(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
8-8-8-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.6  
8-8-8-24 1.65  
8-8-8-24 1.5  
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9  
(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
CMZ8GX3M4X1600C9  
(Ver 2.12)(XMP)  
8GB  
( 4x 2GB )  
HX3X12G1600C9  
(XMP)  
12GB  
( 6x 2GB )  
BL12864BN1608.8FF  
(XMP)  
2GB  
( 2x 1GB )  
BLT4G3D1608DT1TX0.16FM  
(XMP)  
Crucial  
4GB  
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16  
(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
9
9
-
-
-
-
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16  
(XMP)  
4GB  
(2 x 2GB)  
Elixir  
M2X2F64CB88G7N-DG  
(XMP)  
2GB  
4GB  
SS Elixir  
DS Elixir  
N2CB2G80GN-DG 9-9-9-28  
N2CB2G80GN-DG 9-9-9-28  
Elixir  
M2X4G64CB8HG5N-DG  
(XMP)  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.Skill  
GEIL  
F3-12800CL7D-8GBRH  
(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
7-8-7-24 1.6  
7-8-7-24 1.6  
8-8-8-24 1.35  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.25  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-28 1.6  
7-7-7-24 1.6  
F3-12800CL7Q-16GBXH  
(XMP)  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
F3-12800CL8D-8GBECO  
(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x4GB )  
F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL  
(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
F3-12800CL9D-8GBSR2  
(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
F3-12800CL9Q-16GBZL  
(XMP)  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
GET316GB1600C9QC  
(XMP)  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
GEIL  
GUP34GB1600C7DC  
(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
GoodRam  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
GR1600D364L9/2G  
2GB  
2GB  
4GB  
DS GoodRam GF1008KC-JN  
SS KINGMAX N/A  
-
-
FLGE85F-C8KL9A(XMP)  
FLGF65F-C8KL9A(XMP)  
9-9-9-28  
9-9-9-28  
-
-
DS KINGMAX N/A  
-
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX  
(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1.65  
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX  
(XMP)  
12GB  
( 3x 4GB )  
9
-
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX  
(XMP)  
12GB  
( 3x 4GB )  
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX  
(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
9
9
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX  
(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
Kingston  
KHX1600C9D3K8/32GX  
(XMP)  
32GB  
( 8x 4GB)  
9-9-9-27 1.65  
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3P1K2/8G  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
9
9
9
9
-
1.5  
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
-
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/  
12GX(XMP)  
12GB  
( 3x 4GB )  
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/6GX  
(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X2K2/4GX 4GB  
(XMP)  
( 2x 2GB )  
KINGTIGER KTG2G1600PG3(XMP)  
2GB  
2-10  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 1600 MHz capability (continued)  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
SS/ Chip  
DS Brand  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
Chip NO.  
Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
Mushkin  
Mushkin  
OCZ  
996805(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
6-8-6-24 1.65  
6-8-6-24 1.65  
998805(XMP)  
6GB  
( 3x 2GB )  
OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
8-8-8  
1.65  
Patriot  
Patriot  
Patriot  
AE32G1609U1-U  
2GB  
4GB  
SS AMD  
DS AMD  
23EY4587MB6H  
-
-
1.5  
1.5  
AE34G1609U2-U  
23EY4587MB6H  
-
PGD38G1600ELK(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.65  
7-7-7-20 1.7  
8-8-8-24 1.7  
8-9-8-24 1.65  
8-9-8-24 1.65  
Patriot  
Patriot  
Patriot  
Patriot  
PGS34G1600LLKA  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
-
-
-
-
PGS34G1600LLKA2  
PVV38G1600LLK(XMP)  
PX7312G1600LLK(XMP)  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
12GB  
( 3x 4GB )  
SanMax  
SanMax  
SMD-4G68HP-16KZ  
SMD-4G68NG-16KK  
4GB  
4GB  
2GB  
DS Hynix  
H5TQ2G83BFRPBC  
J2108BDBG-GN-F  
-
-
1.5  
-
DS ELPIDA  
Silicon  
Power  
SP002GBLTU160V02  
(XMP)  
SS S-POWER 20YT5NG  
9-11-  
11-28  
1.5  
Silicon  
Power  
SP004GBLTU160V02  
(XMP)  
4GB  
DS S-POWER 20YT5NG  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
Team  
Team  
TED34096M1600HC11  
4GB  
1GB  
DS Team  
SS Team  
T3D2568ET-16  
-
-
TXD31024M1600C8-D  
(XMP)  
T3D1288RT-16  
T3D1288LT-16  
T3D1288RT-16  
8-8-8-24 1.65  
7-7-7-24 1.65  
8-8-8-24 1.65  
Team  
TXD32048M1600C7-L  
(XMP)  
2GB  
2GB  
4GB  
DS Team  
DS Team  
DS Hynix  
Team  
TXD32048M1600HC8-  
D(XMP)  
Team  
TXD34096M1600HC9-  
D(XMP)  
H5TC2G83BFRH9A 9-9-9-24 1.5  
Transcend  
JM1600KLN-8GK  
8GB  
DS Transcend TK483PCW3  
-
-
( 2x 4GB )  
Transcend  
Transcend  
TS256MLK64V6N  
TS512MLK64V6N  
2GB  
4GB  
SS Transcend K4B2G0846C  
DS Transcend K4B2G0846C  
-
-
-
-
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 1333 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
S S /  
DS  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
Chip Brand Chip NO.  
Timing Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
ACTICA  
ACTICA  
ACTICA  
ACTICA  
ACTICA  
ACTICA  
ACTICA  
ACTICA  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
Apacer  
Apacer  
ATP  
ACT1GHU64B8F1333S  
1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
ACT1GHU72C8G1333S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)  
ACT2GHU64B8G1333M 2GB DS Micron D9KPT  
ACT2GHU64B8G1333S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F  
ACT2GHU72D8G1333M 2GB DS Micron D9KPT(ECC)  
ACT2GHU72D8G1333S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)  
ACT4GHU64B8H1333H  
4GB DS Hynix  
H5TQ2G83AFR  
H5TQ2G83AFR(ECC)  
3CCA-1509A  
ACT4GHU72D8H1333H 4GB DS Hynix  
AD63I1B0823EV  
AD63I1C1624EV  
2GB SS A-DATA  
4GB DS A-DATA  
3CCA-1509A  
AXDU1333GC2G9(XMP) 2GB SS  
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.25~1.35  
SU3U1333W8G9(XMP)  
78.A1GC6.9L1  
8GB DS ELPIDA  
2GB DS Apacer  
4GB DS Apacer  
J4208BASE-DJ-F  
AM5D5808FEQSBG  
AM5D5908CEHSBG  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9
9
-
78.B1GDE.9L10C  
AQ12M72E8BKH9S  
AQ56M72E8BJH9S  
4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C(ECC)  
2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC)  
ATP  
-
BUFFALO D3U1333-1G  
BUFFALO D3U1333-2G  
BUFFALO D3U1333-4G  
1GB SS Elpida  
2GB DS Elpida  
4GB DS NANYA  
J1108BFBG-DJ-F  
J1108BFBG-DJ-F  
NT5CB256M8BN-CG  
-
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-11  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 1333 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
SS/  
DS  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
Chip Brand Chip NO.  
Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CMX8GX3M2A1333C9  
(XMP)  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
-
-
-
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
TW3X4G1333C9A  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13  
4GB  
(2 x 2GB)  
9
-
Elixir  
M2F2G64CB88B7N-CG 2GB  
M2F2G64CB88D7N-CG 2GB  
N2CB2G808N-CG  
M2CB2G8BDN-CG  
N2CB2G808N-CG  
D3 128M8CE9 2GB  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
Elixir  
-
-
-
-
-
-
Elixir  
Elixir  
Elixir  
M2F4G64CB8HB5N-CG 4GB  
F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT 4GB  
Elixir  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
7-7-7-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-9-9-24 1.3  
9-9-9-24 1.3  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
( 2x 2GB )  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
GEIL  
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL  
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL  
F3-10666CL9D-8GBXL  
GB34GB1333C7DC  
GET316GB1333C9QC  
GG34GB1333C9DC  
GG34GB1333C9DC  
GVP38GB1333C9DC  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
-
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
-
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
-
-
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
-
-
4GB  
(2 x 2GB)  
GL1L128M88BA15FW  
GEIL  
-
GEIL  
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
-
GEIL  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
GL1L128M88BA115FW  
GEIL  
GEIL  
-
GEIL  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
GL1L128M88BA15B  
-
GEIL  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
GoodRam  
Hynix  
GR1333D364L9/2G  
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
4GB  
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
4GB  
4GB  
4GB  
4GB  
2GB  
8GB  
IDSH1G-03A1F1C-13H  
H5TC1G83TFR  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
Qimonda  
Hynix  
-
-
HMT125U6TFR8A-H9  
-
-
INNODISK M3UN-2GHJBC09  
INNODISK M3UN-4GHJAC09  
H5TQ2G83CFRH9C  
H5TQ2G83CFRH9C  
KFB8FNLXL-BNF-15A  
KFC8FNLBF-GXX-12A  
KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A  
KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A  
KFC8FNLBF-GXX-12A  
KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A  
KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A  
J2108ECSE-DJ-F  
Hynix  
9-9-9-24  
-
Hynix  
9-9-9-24  
-
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
FLFE85F-B8KL9  
FLFE85F-C8KL9  
FLFE85F-C8KL9  
FLFE85F-C8KM9  
FLFF65F-C8KL9  
FLFF65F-C8KL9  
FLFF65F-C8KM9  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
Kingmax  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
Kingmax  
Elpida  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
KINGSTON KVR1333D3E9S/4G  
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G  
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9H/8G  
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9K2/4G  
9
9
1.5  
1.5  
D1288JPNDPLD9U  
J4208EASE-DJ-F  
Kingston  
ELPIDA  
KINGSTON  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
D1288JEMFPGD9U  
-
1.5  
KINGSTON KVR1333D3S8N9/2G  
KINGTIGER F10DA2T1680  
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
IFD77 D9LGK  
SS  
DS  
DS  
Micron  
-
-
-
1.5  
KTG1333PS1208NST-C9  
-
KINGTIGER  
-
-
-
KINGTIGER KTG2G1333PG3  
2-12  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
P9X79 LE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 1333 MHz capability  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
SS/  
DS  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
Chip Brand Chip NO.  
Timing  
Voltage  
2
4
6
8
DIMM DIMM DIMM DIMM  
Mach Xtreme MXD3U133316GQ  
Mach Xtreme MXD3V13332GS  
DS  
-
-
-
16GB  
( 4x 4GB )  
-
SS  
SS  
DS  
Mach Xtreme C2S46D30-D313  
-
2GB  
2GB  
-
MICRON  
OCZ  
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4M1  
MICRON  
-
D9PFJ  
-
-
-
OCZ3G1333LV4GK  
OCZ3G1333LV8GK  
OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK  
9-9-9  
4GB  
( 2x 2GB )  
1.65  
OCZ  
OCZ  
DS  
DS  
SS  
-
-
-
9-9-9  
9-9-9  
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
1.65  
1.65  
-
8GB  
( 2x 4GB )  
Patriot  
Patriot  
Patriot  
Patriot  
AE32G1339U1-U  
AE34G1339U2-U  
PG38G1333EL(XMP)  
AMD  
23EY4587MB3H  
-
2GB  
4GB  
8GB  
1.5  
1.5  
1.5  
1.5  
DS AMD  
23EY4587MB3H  
-
DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
-
PGD316G1333ELK  
(XMP)  
9-9-9-24  
16GB  
( 2x 8GB )  
Patriot  
PGS34G1333LLKA  
DS  
-
-
7-7-7-20  
4GB  
1.7  
(2 x 2GB)  
RiDATA  
C304627CB1AG22Fe  
E304459CB1AG32Cf  
M378B1G73AH0-CH9  
M378B5273CH0-CH9  
M378B5673FH0-CH9  
DS RiDATA  
C304627CB1AG22Fe  
E304459CB1AG32Cf  
K4B4G0846A-HCH9  
K4B2G0846C  
9
2GB  
4GB  
8GB  
4GB  
2GB  
1GB  
1GB  
2GB  
4GB  
4GB  
1GB  
-
RiDATA  
DS RiDATA  
9
-
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
DS SAMSUNG  
DS SAMSUNG  
DS SAMSUNG  
-
-
K4B2G0846C  
-
K4B1G0846F  
-
-
Silicon Power SP001GBLTE133S01  
Silicon Power SP001GBLTU133S02  
Silicon Power SP002GBLTE133S01  
Silicon Power SP004GBLTU133V02  
SS  
SS  
NANYA  
NT5CB128M8AN-CG  
10YT3E5  
-
-
S-POWER  
9
-
DS NANYA  
DS S-POWER  
DS Team  
NT5CB128M8AN-CG  
20YT3NG  
-
-
9-9-9-24  
-
-
Team  
Team  
TED34096M1333HC9  
T3D2568LT-13  
-
TXD31024M1333C7  
(XMP)  
SS  
Team  
T3D1288LT-13  
7-7-7-21  
1.75  
Team  
Team  
TXD31048M1333C7-D  
(XMP)  
SS  
Team  
T3D1288LT-13  
T3D1288LT-13  
7-7-7-21  
7-7-7-21  
1GB  
2GB  
1.75  
TXD32048M1333C7-D  
(XMP)  
DS Team  
1.5-1.6  
Transcend  
Transcend  
Transcend  
JM1333KLN-2G  
JM1333KLN-4G  
SS  
Transcend  
TK483PCW3  
TK483PCW3  
TK483PCW3  
-
2GB  
4GB  
4GB  
-
-
-
DS Transcend  
DS Transcend  
-
JM1333KLN-4G  
( 583782 )  
9
Transcend  
Transcend  
TS1GLK64V3H  
DS MICRON  
D9PBC  
-
8GB  
2GB  
-
-
TS256MLK64V3N  
( 585541 )  
SS  
SS  
SS  
Micron  
ICD77 D9LGK  
9
Transcend  
Transcend  
Transcend  
Transcend  
TS256MLK64V3N  
(566577)  
Hynix  
H5TQ2G83BFR  
D9LGK  
9
9
9
9
2GB  
2GB  
4GB  
4GB  
-
-
-
-
TS256MLK64V3N  
(574206)  
Micron  
TS512MLK64V3N  
( 585538 )  
DS Micron  
DS Micron  
IED27 D9LGK  
D9LGK  
TS512MLK64V3N  
(574831)  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-13  
For each DRAM channel (A,B,C,D), make sure to install the DRAM module to blue slot first.  
1 DIMM: Supports one (1) module inserted into any blue slot as Single-channel  
memory configuration. Install the module into the D1 slot for better  
compatibility.  
2 DIMMs: Supports two (2) modules inserted into one pair of blue slots as one pair of  
Dual-channel memory configuration. Install the modules into slots B1 and  
D1 for better compatibility.  
4 DIMMs: Supports four (4) modules inserted into four blue slots as two pairs of  
Quad-channel memory configuration. Install the modules into slots A1/B1/  
C1/D1 for better compatibility.  
6 DIMMs: Supports four (6) modules inserted into four blue slots and one pair of black  
slots as three pairs of Quad-channel memory configurations. Install the  
modules into slots A1/B1/B2/C1/D1/D2 for better compatibility.  
8 DIMMs: Supports four (8)  
modules inserted into all the slots as fully-loaded  
Quad-channel memory configurations.  
When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows 32-bit operation system  
may only recognize less than 3GB. Hence, a total installed memory of less than 3GB is  
recommended.  
The default DIMM frequency depends 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  
ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function.  
Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load  
the X.M.P. or D.O.C.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support.  
Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.  
2-14  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.2.4  
Expansion slots  
Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do  
so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.  
Slot No. Slot Description  
1
PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16; dual at x16/x16; triple at x16/x16/x8 mode)  
2
3
4
5
6
PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot  
PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot  
PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slot (single at x16; dual at x16/x16; triple at x16/x16/x8 mode)  
PCI slot 1  
PCIe 3.0 x16_3 slot (at x8 mode)  
PCI Express operating mode  
VGA configuration  
PCIe x16_1  
PCIe x16_2  
PCIe x16_3  
x16 (Recommend for  
single VGA)  
Single VGA/PCIe card  
N/A  
N/A  
Dual VGA/PCIe card  
Triple VGA/PCIe card  
x16  
x16  
x16  
x16  
N/A  
x8  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-15  
 
In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (blue) for a PCI Express x16  
graphics card to get better performance.  
In CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 and PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slots for  
PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance.  
We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™  
mode. Refer to page 2-29 for details.  
In 3-way SLI mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 and PCIe 3.0 x16_2 and PCIe 3.0 x16_3  
slots for PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance.  
Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2/3/4 when  
using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. See page 2-27 for details.  
IRQ assignments for this motherboard  
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
PCIEX16_1  
PCIEX16_2  
PCIEX16_3  
PCIEX1_1  
PCIEX1_2  
PCI slot  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
USB 3.0 #1  
USB 3.0 #2  
shared  
shared  
e-SATA  
shared  
On Chip USB1  
On Chip USB2  
shared  
shared  
HD Audio  
On Chip SATA  
LAN  
shared  
shared  
shared  
2-16  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.2.5  
Onboard buttons and switches  
Onboard switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-  
case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to  
enhance system performance.  
1.  
MemOK! switch  
Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system  
boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously. Press  
and hold the MemOK! switch until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic  
memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.  
Refer to section 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.  
The DRAM_LED also lights when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the  
system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.  
The MemOK! switch does not function under Windows™ OS environment.  
During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It  
takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test  
fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed  
of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.  
Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each  
timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning  
process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones  
recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on  
the ASUS website at www.asus.com.  
If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system  
continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn  
off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.  
If your system fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch to boot  
and load BIOS default settings. A messgae will appear during POST reminding you  
that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.  
We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the  
ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
2-17  
 
2.  
DirectKey button  
This feature allows your system to go to the BIOS Setup program with the press of  
a button. With DirectKey, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press  
the <Del> key during POST. It also allows you to turn on or turn off your system and  
conveniently enter the BIOS during boot-up.  
Ensure to save your data before using the DirectKey button.  
When the system is on and you press the DirectKey button, your system will shut  
down. Press the DirectKey button again or the Power-on button to reboot and enter  
the BIOS directly.  
Turn off your system using the power-on button to allow your system to go through  
POST (without entering the BIOS) when you reboot your system.  
Refer to section 3.7 Boot Menu for details about setting the DirectKey default  
function.  
2-18  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
3.  
BIOS Flashback switch  
USB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the  
BIOS or operating system. Just connect the USB storage device containing the BIOS  
file to the USB port, press the BIOS Flashback switch, and the BIOS is updated  
automatically.  
Refer to section 2.3.10 USB BIOS Flashback for more information about BIOS_FLBK  
switch.  
2.2.6  
Onboard LEDs  
1.  
Standby Power LED  
The Standby Power LED will light up once the system is connected to a power source.  
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2.  
Q-LEDs  
These ID LEDs of CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD indicate key component status  
during POST (Power-on Self Test), providing an elegant embellishment to the  
motherboard design. The LED lights will flash sequentially during system bootup. If an  
error is found, the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is  
solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitional way to locate the root problem  
within a second.  
3.  
FLBK LED  
The FLBK LED lights up when the USB Flashback switch is pressed for three seconds.  
2-20  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.2.7  
Jumper  
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.  
To erase the RTC RAM:  
1.  
2.  
Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.  
Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3 for  
about 5-10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.  
3.  
4.  
Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.  
Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter  
data.  
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default  
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!  
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper  
again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the  
battery.  
You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For  
system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature.  
Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter  
settings to default values.  
Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R. function. You  
must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before  
rebooting the system.  
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2.2.8  
Internal connectors  
1.  
Intel® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])  
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0  
Gb/s signal cables.  
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10  
configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® X79  
chipset.  
2-22  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.  
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])  
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc  
drives via Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s signal cables.  
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10  
configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® X79  
chipset.  
These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial  
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID  
Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.4 SATA Configuration for details.  
Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID configurations or the manual  
bundled in the motherboard support DVD.  
When using NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer to section  
3.5.4 SATA Configuration for details.  
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial  
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using  
Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.  
IRST driver note for OS installation  
Windows XP:  
32 bit: Intel IRST driver for X79 platform will NOT support Windows XP 32 bit. Please  
set to [IDE Mode] for OS installation.  
64 bit: When [SATA Mode] is set to [AHCI Mode][RAID Mode], it is necessary to load  
IRST Driver from driver disk during OS Windows XP 64 bit installation for the system  
to detect the storage devices. For details, please refer to the section "4.5 Create a  
RAID driver disk".  
Windows 7 & Vista:  
When [SATA Mode] is set to [RAID Mode], you must load IRST Driver during Windows  
7 or Vista installation for the system to detect the Optical Disk Drive (the ODD should  
be connected to the Intel SATA ports), or else the ODD will not run. We strongly  
recommend you save the IRST Driver from SCD to the USB Flash Drive before OS  
installation.  
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3.  
USB 2.0 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.  
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard!  
You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and  
then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports  
front panel USB ports.  
The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.  
2-24  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
4.  
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)  
This connector is for the additional USB 3.0 ports, and complies with the USB 3.0  
specificaton that supports up to 480 MBps connection speed. If the USB 3.0 front panel  
cable is available from your system chassis, with this USB 3.0 connector, you can have  
a front panel USB 3.0 solution.  
Due to Intel® limitations, USB3_34connector ports run at USB 3.0 speed rate under  
Windows® 7 or later versions.  
The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately.  
5.  
TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)  
This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which can securely  
store keys, digital certificates, passwords, and data. A TPM system also helps enhance  
network security, protects digital identities, and ensures platform integrity.  
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6.  
Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)  
This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this  
connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.  
7.  
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)  
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s).  
Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a  
slot opening at the back of the system chassis.  
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.  
2-26  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
8.  
CPU, CPU OPT, Chassis fan connectors  
(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)  
Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the  
black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.  
Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the  
system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place  
jumper caps on the fan connectors!  
The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.  
Only the CPU_FAN and CHA_FAN1/2/3/4 connectors support the ASUS Fan Xpert+  
feature.  
If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis fan cable  
to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2 for better thermal  
environment.  
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9.  
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports  
either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel  
audio I/O module cable to this connector.  
We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this  
connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.  
If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector, set  
the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]; if you want to connect an AC'97  
front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this  
connector is set to [HD].  
10. Direct Connector (2-pin DRCT)  
This connector is for the chassis-mounted button that supports the DirectKey function.  
Connect the button cable that supports DirectKey, from the chassis to this connector on  
the motherboard.  
Ensure that your chassis comes with the button cable that supports the DirectKey feature.  
Refer to the technical documentation that came with the chassis for details.  
2-28  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
11. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)  
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are  
designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and  
push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.  
For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit  
(PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a  
minimum power of 450 W.  
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system  
will not boot.  
Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when configuring a system  
with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not  
boot up if the power is inadequate.  
If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with  
1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.  
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,  
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.  
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.  
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12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.  
System power LED (2-pin PLED)  
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED  
cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system  
power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.  
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)  
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable  
to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to  
the HDD.  
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)  
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker  
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.  
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)  
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the  
system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS settings.  
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the  
system OFF.  
Reset button (2-pin RESET)  
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without  
turning off the system power.  
2-30  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.3  
Building your computer system  
2.3.1  
Additional tools and components to build a PC system  
1 bag of screws  
Philips (cross) screwdriver  
PC chassis  
Power supply unit  
Intel LGA 2011 CPU  
Intel LGA 2011 compatible CPU Fan  
DIMM  
SATA hard disk drive  
SATA optical disc drive (optional)  
Graphics card (optional)  
The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.  
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2.3.2  
CPU installation  
Please note the order in opening/ closing the double latch. Follow the instructions printed  
on the metal sealing hatch or the illustrations shown below in this manual. The plastic cap  
will pop up automatically once the CPU is in place and the hatch properly sealed down.  
1
2
A
B
Load lever  
C
3
4
A
B
A
B
2-32  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
5
6
Triangle mark  
7
8
B
A
9
B
A
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2.3.3  
CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation  
Apply the Thermal Interface Material  
to the CPU heatsink and CPU  
before you install the heatsink and  
fan if necessary.  
To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly  
1
2
B
A
A
B
2-34  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.3.4  
DIMM installation  
1
2
3
To remove a DIMM  
B
A
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2.3.5  
Motherboard installation  
The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with  
models, but the installation steps remain the same.  
1
2
2-36  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
3
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
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2.3.6  
ATX Power connection  
1
2
OR  
OR  
2-38  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.3.7  
SATA device connection  
1
OR  
2
OR  
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2.3.8  
Front I/O Connector  
To install ASUS Q-Connector  
1
2
To install USB 2.0 Connector  
To install front panel audio connector  
AAFP  
USB 2.0  
To install USB 3.0 Connector  
USB 3.0  
2-40  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.3.9  
Expansion Card installation  
To install PCIe x16 cards  
To install PCIe x1 cards  
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2.3.10  
USB BIOS Flashback  
USB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the BIOS or  
operating system. Just connect the USB storage device containing the BIOS file to the USB  
port, press the BIOS Flashback button, and the BIOS is updated automatically.  
1.  
Download the BIOS CAP file from the ASUS website at www.asus.com and save it to  
the root directory of your USB flash drive. Rename the CAP file to P9X79LE.CAP  
2.  
3.  
Connect the USB flash drive to the bottom USB12 port at the rear panel.  
Press the USB Flashback button for three seconds until the FLBK_LED flashes. The  
FLBK_LED goes out when the BIOS update is completed.  
1. Do not disconnect the USB flash drive or power system, or move the CLRTC jumper  
during the BIOS updating process. Doing so will interrupt the BIOS updating process.  
In case of interruption, follow the steps again to update the BIOS.  
2. If FLBK_LED flashes for five seconds and turns into a stable light, this indicates  
that USB BIOS Flashback is not working properly due to improper USB flash drive  
connection, BIOS file name error, or incompatible BIOS file format. If this happens,  
restart the syetem.  
3. BIOS updating poses some risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the updating  
process and the system fails to reboot, please contact your local ASUS Service Center  
for assistance  
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Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.3.11  
Rear panel connection  
Rear panel connectors  
1. PS/2 mouse port  
7. Optical S/PDIF Out port  
8. External SATA port  
9. External SATA port  
10. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2  
11. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2  
12. Audio I/O ports**  
2. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6  
3. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4  
4. LAN (RJ-45) port*  
5. PS/2 keyboard port  
6. USB 2.0 ports 7 and 8  
* and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LED and audio port definitions.  
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Use Clear RTC RAM jumper to clear CMOS switch to clear BIOS setup information  
only when the system hangs due to overclocking.  
DO NOT insert a different connector to the external SATA port.  
DO NOT connect a keyboard/mouse to any USB3.0 port when installing Windows  
operating system.  
Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under  
Windows® OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation.  
USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only.  
We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster  
and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.  
If you want to use the hot-plug function of the external SATA ports, you have to set the  
ASMedia® 1061 SATA controllers item in the BIOS setting to [AHCI Mode] and install  
the ASMedia® SATA Controller Driver from the motherboard support DVD. Refer to  
section 3.5.6 Onboard Devices Configuration for details.  
*LAN ports LED indications  
Activity Link LED  
ACT/LINK SPEED  
LED LED  
Speed LED  
Status  
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  
** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration  
Port  
Headset  
4-channel  
6-channel  
8-channel  
2-channel  
Light Blue Line In  
Line In  
Line In  
Line In  
Lime  
Line Out  
Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic In  
Pink  
Mic In  
Mic In  
Mic In  
Orange  
Black  
Gray  
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
Side Speaker Out  
Rear Speaker Out  
2-44  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.3.12  
Audio I/O connections  
Audio I/O ports  
Connect to Headphone and Mic  
Connect to Stereo Speakers  
Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers  
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Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers  
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers  
Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers  
2-46  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.4  
Starting up for the first time  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.  
Be sure that all switches are off.  
Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis.  
Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector.  
Turn on the devices in the following order:  
a. Monitor  
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)  
c. System power  
6.  
After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up.  
For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the  
ATX power button. If your monitor complies with the “green” standards or if it has a  
“power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up or change from orange to green  
after the system LED turns on.  
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are running, the  
BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table below) or additional messages appear  
on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned  
on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings  
and connections or call your retailer for assistance.  
BIOS Beep  
Description  
One short beep  
VGA detected  
Quick boot set to disabled  
No keyboard detected  
No memory detected  
One continuous beep followed by two  
short beeps then a pause (repeated)  
One continuous beep followed by three  
short beeps  
No VGA detected  
One continuous beep followed by four  
short beeps  
Hardware component failure  
7.  
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the  
instructions in Chapter 3.  
2.5  
Turning off the computer  
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the  
system on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power  
switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the  
BIOS setting.  
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2-48  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
Chapter 3  
Chapter 3:  
BIOS setup  
3.1  
Knowing BIOS  
The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is an Unified Extensible Firmware Interface that complies with  
UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-  
only BIOS controls to enable more flexible and convenient mouse input. Users can easily  
navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system. The  
term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specified.  
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage  
device configuration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device  
configuration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In normal  
circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure optimum  
performance. We recommend that you not change the default BIOS settings except in  
the following circumstances:  
An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you to  
run the BIOS Setup.  
You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or  
update.  
Inappropriate settings of the BIOS may result to instability or failure to boot. We strongly  
recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service  
personnel.ç  
3.2  
BIOS setup program  
A BIOS setup program is provided for BIOS item modification. When you start up the  
computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del>  
during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility. Otherwise, POST continues  
with its test routines.  
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, press <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or press the reset  
button on the system chassis to restart the system. You can also turn the system off and then  
turn it back on to restart the system. Do this last option only if the first two failed.  
The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and  
may not exactly match what you see on your screen.  
Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the  
mouse to control the BIOS setup program.  
If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default  
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized  
Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu for details.  
If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and  
reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 2.2.7 Jumper for information  
on how to erase the RTC RAM.  
The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.  
The BIOS setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a  
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various submenus and select from the  
available options using a keyboard or a USB mouse.  
The BIOS setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.  
You can change modes from the Exit menu or from the Exit/Advanced Mode button in the  
EZ Mode/Advanced Mode screen.  
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3.2.1  
EZ Mode  
By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ  
Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select  
the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access the  
Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode.  
The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the  
Setup Mode item in section 3.7 Boot memu for details.  
Selects the display language of  
the BIOS setup program  
Clicks to display all fan  
speeds if available  
Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature,  
Exits the BIOS setup program without saving  
CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage output,  
CPU/CPU_OPT/Chassis fan speed  
the changes, saves the changes and resets  
the system, or enters the Advanced Mode  
Quick switch to frequently  
used menus.  
Loads optimized default  
ASUS Optimal mode  
Power Saving mode  
Normal mode  
Selects the boot device priority  
Selects the boot  
device priority  
Displays the system properties of the  
selected mode on the right hand side  
The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.  
The Boot Menu(F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the  
system.  
3-2  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.2.2  
Advanced Mode  
The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure  
the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the  
following sections for the detailed configurations.  
To access the EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode.  
Menu items  
Menu bar  
Configuration fields  
General help  
Submenu item  
Pop-up window  
Scroll bar  
Navigation keys  
Menu bar  
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:  
Main  
For changing the basic system configuration  
For changing the overclocking settings  
For changing the advanced system settings  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Monitor  
Boot  
For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings.  
For changing the system boot configuration  
Tool  
For configuring options for special functions  
Exit  
For selecting the exit options and loading default settings  
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Menu items  
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example,  
selecting Main shows the Main menu items.  
The other items (Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have  
their respective menu items.  
Back button  
This button appears when entering a submenu. Press <Esc> or use the USB mouse to click  
this button to return to the previous menu screen.  
Submenu items  
A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a  
submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.  
Pop-up window  
Select a menu item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the configuration  
options for that item.  
Scroll bar  
A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not fit on  
the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the  
other items on the screen.  
Navigation keys  
At the bottom right corner of the menu screen are the navigation keys for the BIOS setup  
program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.  
Press <F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removeable storage device.  
Press <F3> key for BIOS option shortcut.  
General help  
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.  
Configuration fields  
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-configurable, you can  
change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not  
user-configurable.  
A configurable field is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it and  
press <Enter> to display a list of options.  
3-4  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
3.3  
Main menu  
The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup  
program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and  
allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings.  
3.3.1  
System Language [English]  
Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Configuration options:  
[
] [  
] [  
] [  
] [  
] [  
] [  
] [  
]
3.3.2  
System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]  
Allows you to set the system date.  
3.3.3  
System Time [xx:xx:xx]  
Allows you to set the system time.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
3-5  
 
3.3.4  
Security  
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.  
If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)  
RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 2.2.7 Jumper for information on how to  
erase the RTC RAM.  
The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default Not  
Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed.  
Administrator Password  
If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator  
password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to see or change only  
selected fields in the BIOS setup program.  
To set an administrator password:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.  
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
To change an administrator password:  
1.  
2.  
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.  
From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press  
<Enter>.  
3.  
From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.  
4.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator  
password, but press <Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear  
the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.  
3-6  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
User Password  
If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.  
The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set  
a password, this item shows Installed.  
To set a user password:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.  
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
To change a user password:  
1.  
2.  
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.  
From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press  
<Enter>.  
3.  
From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.  
4.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press  
<Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear the password, the  
User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
3-7  
3.4  
Ai Tweaker menu  
The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items.  
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field  
values can cause the system to malfunction.  
The configuration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you  
installed on the motherboard.  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
3-8  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
Scroll down to display the following items:  
Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]  
Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal  
frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options:  
[Auto]  
Loads the optimal settings for the system.  
[Manual]  
[X.M.P.]  
Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.  
If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Profile  
(X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the profiles supported by your  
memory modules for optimizing the system performance.  
The following three items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner item to  
[Manual].  
BCLK Frequency [XXX]  
Allows you to adjust the CPU and VGA frequency to enhance the system performance.  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value  
using the numeric keypad. The values range from 80.0MHz to 300.0MHz.  
CPU Strap [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [100MHz] [125MHz] [166MHz] [250MHz]  
ClockGen Full Reset [Enabled]  
[Enabled] Enabled for better overclocking.  
[Disabled] To skip system shutdown at BCLK frequency adjustment.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
3-9  
Turbo Ratio [Auto]  
Allows you to manually adjust the Trubo CPU ratio.  
[Auto]  
All Turbo ratio are set by Intel CPU default settings  
[By ALL Cores (Can Adjust in OS)]  
All numbers of active cores will be set to one single  
Turbo ratio in OS  
[By Per Core (Cannot Adjust in OS)] All numbers of active cores can be set to an individual  
Turbo ratio in BIOS.  
CPU Clock Gen Filter [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled] [10UF]  
Memory Frequency [Auto]  
Forces a DDR3 frequency slower than the common tCK detected via SPD.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz] [DDR3_1333MHz]  
[DDR3-1600MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR3_2133MHz] [DDR3_2400MHz] [DDR3_2666MHz]  
Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this  
happens, revert to the default setting.  
EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
EPU Setting [Auto]  
This item appears only when you set the EPU Power Saving Mode item to [Enabled.] and  
allows you to select the EPU power saving mode.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Light Power Saving Mode] [Medium Power Saving Mode] [Max  
Power Saving Mode]  
OC Tuner  
OC Tuner automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of CPU and DRAM for  
enhancing the system performance. Configuration options: [OK] [Cancel]  
DRAM Timing Control  
The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+>  
and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard  
and press the <Enter> key.  
Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this  
happens, revert to the default settings.  
3-10  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
3-11  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
3-12  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
Primary Timings  
DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [3 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [40 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM COMMAND Mode [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] [2 DRAM Clock] [3 DRAM Clock]  
Secondary Timings  
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [48 DRAM Clock] – [511 DRAM Clock]  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
3-13  
DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [5 DRAM Clock] – [31 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [16 DRAM Clock] – [63 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
DRAM WRITE Latency [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
Third Timings  
tRRDR [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]  
tRRDD [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]  
tWWDR [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]  
tWWDD [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]  
tRWDR [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
tRWDD [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
tWRDR [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]  
tWRDD [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]  
tRWSR [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]  
tCCD [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]  
Latency Timings  
DRAM RTL (CHA D0 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
3-14  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
DRAM IOL (CHA D0 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12  
Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock]  
[Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance  
3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock]  
[Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay  
8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13  
Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHA D0 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHA D0 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12  
Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock]  
[Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance  
3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock]  
[Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay  
8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13  
Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHA D1 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHA D1 R0) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHA D1 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHA D1 R1) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
3-15  
DRAM RTL (CHB D0 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHB D0 R0) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHB D0 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHB D0 R1) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHB D1 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHB D1 R0) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHB D1 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
3-16  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
DRAM IOL (CHB D1 R1) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHC D0 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHC D0 R0) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHC D0 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHC D0 R1) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHC D1 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHC D1 R0) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
3-17  
DRAM RTL (CHC D1 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHC D1 R1) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHD D0 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHD D0 R0) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHD D0 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHD D0 R1) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHD D1 R0) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
3-18  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
DRAM IOL (CHD D1 R0) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM RTL (CHD D1 R1) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10  
Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10  
Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
DRAM IOL (CHD D1 R1) [Auto]  
[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock]  
[Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance  
6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock]  
[Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4  
Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock]  
[Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]  
Others  
DRAM CLK Period [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]  
Enhanced Training (CHA) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Enhanced Training (CHB) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Enhanced Training (CHC) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Enhanced Training (CHD) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
MCH Duty Sense (CHA) [Auto]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1  
interval.  
MCH Duty Sense (CHB) [Auto]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1  
interval.  
MCH Duty Sense (CHC) [Auto]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1  
interval.  
MCH Duty Sense (CHD) [Auto]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1  
interval.  
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Receiver Slew [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Normal] [More]  
Transmitter Slew [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Normal] [More]  
MCH Recheck [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
DIGI+ Power Control  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]  
CPU Load-line is defined by Intel VRM spec and affects CPU voltage. The CPU working  
voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration would get  
higher voltage and better overclocking performance, but increase the CPU and VRM thermal.  
This item allows you to adjust the voltage range from the following percentages to boost the  
system performance: 0% (Regular), 25% (Medium), 50% (High), 75% (Ultra High) and 100%  
(Extreme).  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Medium] [High] [Ultra High] [Extreme]  
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specifiation.  
3-20  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
CPU Current Capability [Auto]  
This item provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher value brings a wider  
total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]  
Do not remove the thermal module while changing the DIGI+ Power Control related  
parameters . The thermal conditions should be monitored.  
Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric  
keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the  
value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter>  
key.  
CPU VCORE Boot Up Voltage [Auto]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800 to 1.700 with  
0.005 interval.  
VCCSA Load-line calibration [Auto]  
The behavior of the DRAM controller is decided by VCCSA Load-Line. Set to a higher value  
for system performance, or to a lower value for better thermal solution.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [High] [Extreme]  
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU and DRAM specification.  
Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.  
VCCSA Current Capability [100%]  
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]  
CPU VCCSA Boot Up Voltage [Auto]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.8 to 1.7 with 0.005  
interval.  
CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto]  
Switching frequency will affect the VRM transient response and component thermal. Setting a  
higher frequency gets faster transient response.  
[Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Spread Spectrum item.  
[Manual]  
Allows you to manually set the frequency with a 10k Hz interval.  
CPU Fixed Frequency [xxx]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 300kHz to 500kHz with  
10kHz interval.  
CPU Spread Spectrum [Disabled]  
This item helps enhance system stability.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
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CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]  
[T.Probe]  
[Extreme]  
Maintains the VRM thermal balance.  
Maintains the VRM current balance.  
CPU Power Phase Control [Auto]  
Phase number is the number of woorking VRM phase. Increasing phase number under  
heavy system loading to get more transient and better thermal performance. Reducing phase  
number under light system loading to increase VRM efficiency  
[Standard]  
Proceeds phase control depending on the CPU loading.  
Allows you to set the Auto mode.  
[Auto]  
[Optimized]  
[Extreme]  
Loads the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.  
Proceeds the full phase mode.  
[Manual Adjustment]  
Allows manual adjustment.  
DRAM-AB Current Capability [100%]  
Setting a higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking  
frequency range simultaneously.  
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]  
DRAM-AB Voltage Frequency [Auto]  
This item allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a fixed high DRAM  
frequency to increase O.C range or a lower DRAM frequency for better system stability.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [manual]  
DRAM-AB Power Phase control [Auto]  
[Auto]  
Allows you to set the Auto mode.  
[Optimized]  
[Extreme]  
Allows you to set ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.  
Allows you to set the Full phase mode.  
DRAM-CD Current Capability [100%]  
Setting a higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking  
frequency range simultaneously.  
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]  
DRAM-CD Voltage Frequency [Auto]  
This item allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a fixed high DRAM  
frequency to increase O.C range or a lower DRAM frequency for better system stability.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [manual]  
DRAM-CD Power Phase control [Auto]  
[Auto]  
Allows you to set the Auto mode.  
[Optimized]  
Allows you to set ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.  
[Extreme]  
Allows you to set the Full phase mode.  
3-22  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
CPU Performance Settings  
The items in this menu is setting for CPU Ratio/Features.  
CPU Ratio [Auto]  
This item allows user manually adjust the maximum non-turbo CPU ratio, The value will be  
limit to CPU base or factory setting.  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology, allows the system operation system to dynamically  
adjust processor voltage and cores frequency, which can result in decreased average power  
consumption and decreased average heat production.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Turbo Mode [Enabled]  
It automatically allows processors cores to run faster than the base operating frequency if it’s  
operating below power, current and temperature specification limit.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following items appear only when you set the Turbo Mode items to [Enabled].  
Turbo Mode Parameters  
Long Duration Power Limit [Auto]  
The default setting of this item will be TDP (130W). For Sandy Bridge-E, Turbo Ratio  
can be kept a time duration exceed TDP for maximum performance. Any value under  
255 can be programmed. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.  
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Long Duration Maintained [Auto]  
This value can vary from 1 to 32, which indicates the time window for Turbo Ratio over  
TDP should be maintained. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.  
Short Duration Power Limit [Auto]  
This is the second power limit to provide rapid protection when package power  
exceeds Power Limit 1. Default setting is 1.25 times Power Limit 1. For Intel  
recommend, platform must be capable of supporting over Power Limit 2 for up to 10  
msec. ASUS board can support over Power Limit 2 for a long duration. Use the <+>  
and <-> keys to adjust the value.  
Additional Turbo Voltage [Auto]  
This item allows user to set the maximum additional voltage applies to the CPU when  
Turbo Boost is engaged. Use <+> and <-> key to adjust the value.  
CPU Core Current Limit [Auto]  
This item allows user to enter CPU Current Limit, unit in 0.125A. Use the <+> and <->  
keys to adjust the value.  
CPU VCORE Voltage [Offset Mode]  
[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a fixed CPU VCORE voltage.  
[Offset Mode]  
Allows you to set the CPU VCORE Offset voltage.  
CPU VCORE Manual Voltage [Auto]  
This item appears only when you set the CPU VCORE Voltage item to [Manual Mode]  
and allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V  
with a 0.005V interval.  
CPU VCCSA Voltage [Offset Mode]  
[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a fixed CPU VCCSA voltage.  
[Offset Mode]  
Allows you to set the CPU VCCSA Offset voltage.  
CPU VCCSA Manual Voltage [Auto]  
This item appears only when you set the CPU VCCSA Voltage item to [Manual Mode]  
and allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V  
with a 0.005V interval.  
Offset Mode Sign [+]  
This item appears only when you set the CPU VCORE/VCCSA Voltage item to [Offset  
Mode].  
[+]  
[–]  
To offset the voltage by a positive value.  
To offset the voltage by a negative value.  
CPU VCORE/VCCSA Offset Voltage [Auto]  
This item allows you to set the Offset voltage. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V  
with a 0.005V interval.  
Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU voltage. Setting a high voltage  
may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the system  
unstable.  
3-24  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
DRAM Voltage (CHA, CHB) [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.99V with a 0.005V  
interval.  
DRAM Voltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.99V with a 0.005V  
interval.  
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may damage  
the CPU permanently. We recommend you install the DIMMs with the voltage requirement  
below 1.65V.  
CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CPU and PCH PLL voltage. The values range from 1.80V to 2.10V with  
a 0.00625V interval.  
VTTCPU Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the VTTCPU voltage. The values range from 1.10V to 1.70V with a  
0.00625V interval.  
PCH 1.5v Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the 1.5v Platform Controller Hub voltage. The values range from 1.50V to  
1.80V with a 0.00625V interval.  
The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high voltage settings.  
VTTDDR Voltage (CHA, CHB) [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CHA, CHB VTTDDR voltage. The values range from 0.6250V to 1.10V  
with a 0.00625V interval.  
VTTDDR Voltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CHC, CHD VTTDDR voltage. The values range from 0.6250V to 1.10V  
with a 0.00625V interval.  
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA. The values range from 0.3950x to  
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.  
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA. The values range from 0.3950x to  
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.  
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DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB. The values range from 0.3950x to  
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.  
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB. The values range from 0.3950x to  
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.  
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHC. The values range from 0.3950x to  
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.  
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHC. The values range from 0.3950x to  
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.  
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHD. The values range from 0.3950x to  
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.  
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHD. The values range from 0.3950x to  
0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.  
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM Read Reference Voltage on Channel A. The values range from  
0.3850x to 0.6150x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking  
ability.  
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM Read Reference Voltage on Channel B. The values range from  
0.3850x to 0.6150x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking  
ability.  
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM Read Reference Voltage on Channel C. The values range from  
0.3850x to 0.6150x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking  
ability.  
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM Read Reference Voltage on Channel D. The values range from  
0.3850x to 0.6150x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking  
ability.  
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]  
[Auto]  
Sets to Auto mode.  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.  
Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.  
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto]  
[Auto]  
Sets to Auto mode.  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Enhances the PCIE overclocking ability.  
Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.  
3.5  
Advanced menu  
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system  
devices.  
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values  
can cause the system to malfunction.  
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3.5.1  
CPU Configuration  
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically  
detects.  
The items shown in this screen may be different due to the CPU you installed.  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.  
Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down.  
Hyper-threading [Enabled]  
The Intel Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two  
logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two  
threads or processes simultaneously.  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Only one thread per activated core is enabled.  
Two threads per activated core are enabled.  
3-28  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
Active Processor Cores [All]  
Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package. The  
configuration options will be vary with CPU specification.  
Configuration options: [All]  
Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs  
with extended CPUID functions.  
[Disabled]  
Disables this function.  
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.  
Forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).  
[Disabled]  
Intel Virtualization Technology [Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately  
and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several  
systems.  
[Disabled]  
Disables this function.  
CPU Power Management Configuration  
CPU Ratio [Auto]  
Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the BCLK Frequency. Use <+>  
and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model.  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
The CPU runs at its default speed.  
The operating system controls the CPU speed.  
Turbo Mode [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
Disables this function.  
[Enabled]  
Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific  
condition.  
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CPU C1E [Auto]  
[Auto]  
Set this function in Auto mode.  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables this function.  
Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to  
enable the Enhanced Halt State.  
CPU C3 Report [Auto]  
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto]  
CPU C6 Report [Auto]  
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto]  
CPU C7 Report [Auto]  
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C7 report to OS.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto]  
3.5.2  
System Agent Configuration  
Intel(R) VT-d [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
Enables the function.  
Disables this function.  
PCIEX16_1 Link Speed [GEN3]  
Allows you to configure the PCIEX16_1 speed.  
Configuration options: [GEN1] [GEN2] [GEN3]  
PCIEX16_2 Link Speed [GEN3]  
Allows you to configure PCIEX16_2 speed.  
Configuration options: [GEN1] [GEN2] [GEN3]  
PCIEX16_3 Link Speed [GEN3]  
Allows you to configure PCIEX16_3 speed.  
Configuration options: [GEN1] [GEN2] [GEN3]  
3-30  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.5.3  
PCH Configuration  
High Precision Timer [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3.5.4  
SATA Configuration  
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The SATA  
Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA port.  
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SATA Mode [AHCI Mode]  
Allows you to set the SATA configuration.  
[Disabled]  
Disables the SATA function.  
[IDE Mode]  
Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as  
Parallel ATA physical storage devices.  
[AHCI Mode]  
Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the  
AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard  
storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases  
storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to  
internally optimize the order of commands.  
[RAID Mode]  
Set to [RAID Mode] when you want to create a RAID configuration from the  
SATA hard disk drives.  
The following items appear only when you set the previous item to [IDE Mode].  
Serial-ATA Controller 0 [Enhanced]  
Allows you to enabled/disabled the Serial-ATA Controller 0.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enhanced] [Compatible]  
Serial-ATA Controller 1 [Enhanced]  
Allows you to enabled/disabled the Serial-ATA Controller 1.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enhanced]  
S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled]  
S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When  
read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning  
messages during the POST.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
SATA6G_1 (Gray)  
Hot Plug [Disabled]  
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode].  
It’s allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled].  
SATA6G_2 (Gray)  
Hot Plug [Disabled]  
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode].  
It’s allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled].  
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
SATA3G_3 (Blue)  
Hot Plug [Disabled]  
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode].  
It’s allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled].  
SATA3G_4 (Blue)  
Hot Plug [Disabled]  
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode].  
It’s allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled].  
SATA3G_5 (Blue)  
Hot Plug [Disabled]  
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode]. It’s  
allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled].  
SATA3G_6 (Blue)  
Hot Plug [Disabled]  
This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode]. It’s  
allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled].  
3.5.5  
USB Configuration  
The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.  
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The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the  
item shows None.  
Legacy USB Support [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Auto]  
The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.  
Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).  
Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If  
detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is  
detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.  
Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
Disables the function.  
[Enabled]  
Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating systems  
(OS).  
EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables the function.  
Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off  
feature.  
SB USB Configuration  
All USB Devices [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable all USB devices.  
Configuration options: [Disabled][Enabled]  
EHCI Controller 1 [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable EHCI Controller 1.  
Configuration options: [Disabled][Enabled]  
EHCI Controller 2 [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable EHCI Controller 2.  
Configuration options: [Disabled][Enabled]  
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
3.5.6  
Onboard Devices Configuraton  
Azalia HD Audio [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
Disables the controller.  
[Enabled]  
Enables the High Definition Audio Controller.  
The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller item to  
[Enabled].  
Front Panel Type [HD]  
Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-  
definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.  
[HD]  
Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high definition audio.  
[AC97]  
Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97  
SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF]  
[SPDIF]  
[HDMI]  
Sets to [SPDIF] for SPDIF audio output.  
Sets to [HDMI] for HDMI audio output.  
Realtek LAN Controller [Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
Enables the Realtek LAN controller.  
Disables the controller.  
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Realtek PXE OPROM [Disabled]  
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable  
or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Realtek LAN controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled]  
This item allows user to enabled/disabled Asmedia USB 3.0.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASM1061 Storage Controller [AHCI Mode]  
Allows you to enable or disable the ASM1061 storage controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [IDE Mode] [AHCI Mode]  
If you want to use the full functin of the ASM1061 storage contorller (ex. AHCI), we  
recommend that you set this item to [AHCI Mode] and install the ASM1061 Controller  
Driver from the motherboard support DVD.  
ASM1061 Storage OPROM [Enabled]  
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [IDE Mode] or [AHCI Mode] and  
allows you to enable or disable the OptionRom of the ASM1061 storage controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Serial Port Configuration  
Serial Port [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the serial port (COM).  
Configuration options: [Enabled][Disabled]  
Change Settings [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4]  
Allows you to select the Serial Port base address.  
Configuration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4][IO=2F8h; IRQ=3][IO=3E8h; IRQ=4][IO=2E8h;  
IRQ=3]  
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
3.5.7  
APM  
Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]  
[Power On]  
[Power Off]  
[Last State]  
The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.  
The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.  
The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was  
before the AC power loss.  
Power On By Keyboard [Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
Disables the keyboard device from generating a wake event.  
Configuration options to Enable keyboard to generate a wake event:  
[Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key]  
Power On By Mouse [Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables the mouse device from generating a wake event.  
Enables the mouse device to generate a wake event:  
Power On By PCIE/PCI [Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables the PCIE/PCI devices from generating a wake event.  
Enables the PCIE/PCI devices to generate a wake event.  
Power On By Ring [Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables the Ring device from generating a wake event.  
Enables the Ring device to generate a wake event.  
Power On By RTC [Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables RTC from generating a wake event.  
When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/  
Minute/Second will become user-configurable with set values. Use <+>  
and <-> keys to adjust the values.  
ErP Ready [Disabled]  
This item allows user to switch off some power at S5 to get the system ready for ErP  
requirement. When set to Enabled, all other PME options will be switched off.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
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3.5.8  
Network Stack  
Network Stack [Disable Link]  
This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack.  
Configuration options: [Disable Link] [Enabled]  
The following items appears only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled].  
Ipv4 PXE Support [Enable]  
This item allows user to disable or enable the Ipv4 PXE Support.  
Configuration options: [Disable Link] [Enabled]  
Ipv6 PXE Support [Enable]  
This item allows user to disable or enable the Ipv6 PXE Support.  
Configuration options: [Disable Link] [Enabled]  
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.6  
Monitor menu  
The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change  
the fan settings.  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
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CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU temperatures.  
Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.  
MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard  
temperatures. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.  
CPU Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]  
CPU OPT Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]  
Chassis Fan 1/2/3/4 Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, CPU OPT,  
and chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the  
motherboard, the field shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected  
speed.  
CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.  
Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.  
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]  
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to  
disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.  
Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]  
CPU Fan Profile [Standard]  
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows  
you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.  
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on  
the CPU temperature.  
[Silent]  
[Turbo]  
[Manual]  
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.  
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.  
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.  
The following four items appear only when you set CPU Fan Profile to [Manual].  
CPU Upper Temperature [70]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range  
from 20ºC to 75ºC.  
CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from  
0% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle.  
CPU Lower Temperature [20]  
Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.  
3-40  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 0%  
to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under 40ºC, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum  
duty cycle.  
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Q-Fan Control [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.  
Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.  
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]  
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis 1/2/3/4 Q-Fan Control feature and  
allows you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.  
Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]  
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Profile [Standard]  
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and  
allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan.  
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust depending  
on the chassis temperature.  
[Silent]  
[Turbo]  
[Manual]  
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan operation.  
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.  
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.  
The following four items appear only when you set Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Profile to  
[Manual].  
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Upper Temperature [70]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range  
from 40ºC to 90ºC.  
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from  
60% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle.  
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Lower Temperature [40]  
Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.  
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from  
60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40ºC, the chassis fan will operate at the  
minimum duty cycle.  
CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard  
voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item.  
Anti Surge Support [Enabled]  
This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
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3-41  
3.7  
Boot menu  
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.  
Bootup NumLock State [On]  
[On]  
[Off]  
Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].  
Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].  
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
Enables the full screen logo display feature.  
Disables the full screen logo display feature.  
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature.  
Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disables this function.  
The system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs.  
DirectKey Enable [Go to BIOS Setup]  
[Go to BIOS Setup]  
Enables the DirectKey function and allows you to go to the BIOS  
setup when you press the DirectKey button.  
[Disable]  
Disables the DirectKey function. When set to [Disable], the DirectKey  
button will only allow you to turn on or shut down your computer  
without going into the BIOS setup.  
When set to [Go to BIOS Setup] and the computer is on, the system will shut down when  
you press the DirectKey button. Press the DirectKey button again or the power button to  
reboot and go directly into the BIOS setup.  
3-42  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]  
[Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot  
sequence.  
[Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party  
manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so.  
Setup Mode [EZ Mode]  
[Advanced Mode] Sets Advanced Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup  
program.  
[EZ Mode]  
Sets EZ Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup program.  
Boot Option Priorities  
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The  
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices  
installed in the system.  
To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears.  
To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, press <F8> after POST.  
Boot Override  
These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on  
the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start  
booting from the selected device.  
3.8  
Tools menu  
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item  
then press <Enter> to display the submenu.  
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3-43  
 
3.8.1  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility  
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message  
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to  
confirm your choice.  
For more details, refer to section 3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility.  
3.8.2  
ASUS DRAM SPD Information  
This menu showed the DIMM slot related informations.  
3-44  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.8.3  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.  
The Setup Profile Status items show Not Installed if no profile is created.  
Label  
Allows you to input the label of setup profile.  
Save to Profile  
Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a profile. Key in a  
profile number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.  
Load from Profile  
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the profile  
number that saved your BIOS settings, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the  
system boot failure!  
We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/CPU  
configuration and BIOS version.  
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3.9  
Exit menu  
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and  
save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit  
menu.  
Load Optimized Defaults  
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup  
menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation window appears.  
Select Yes to load the default values.  
Save Changes & Reset  
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to  
ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>,  
a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.  
Discard Changes & Exit  
This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you  
select this option or if you press <Esc>, a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to  
discard changes and exit.  
ASUS EZ Mode  
This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen.  
Launch UEFI Shell from filesystem device  
This option allows you to attempt to launch the UEFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one  
of the available filesystem devices.  
3-46  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.10 Updating BIOS  
The ASUS website publishes the latest BIOS versions to provide enhancements on system  
stability, compatibility, or performance. However, BIOS updating is potentially risky. If there  
is no problem using the current version of BIOS, DO NOT manually update the BIOS.  
Inappropriate BIOS updating may result in the system’s failure to boot. Carefully follow the  
instructions of this chapter to update your BIOS if necessary.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for this  
motherboard.  
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard BIOS setup program.  
1.  
2.  
3.  
ASUS Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.  
ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a USB flash drive.  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or  
a USB flash drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.  
4.  
ASUS BIOS Updater: Updates and backups the BIOS in DOS environment using the  
motherboard support DVD and a USB flash disk drive.  
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.  
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need  
to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS  
Update or BIOS Updater utilities.  
3.10.1  
ASUS Update utility  
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard  
BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to:  
Update the BIOS directly from the Internet  
Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet  
Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file  
Save the current BIOS file  
View the BIOS version information  
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.  
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet  
Service Provider (ISP).  
Launching ASUS Update  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS Update by  
clicking Update > ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.  
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3-47  
 
Updating the BIOS through the Internet  
To update the BIOS through the Internet:  
1.  
From the ASUS Update screen,  
select Update BIOS from Internet,  
and then click Next.  
2.  
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest  
you to avoid network traffic.  
If you want to enable the BIOS  
downgradable function and auto  
BIOS backup function, check the  
checkboxs before the two items on  
the screen.  
3.  
Select the BIOS version that you  
want to download. Click Next.  
4.  
5.  
You can decide whether to change  
the BIOS boot logo, which is the  
image appearing on screen during  
the Power-On Self-Tests (POST).  
Click Yes if you want to change the  
boot logo or No to continue.  
Follow the onscreen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
3-48  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file  
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:  
1.  
From the ASUS Update screen,  
select Update BIOS from file, and  
then click Next.  
2.  
Locate the BIOS file from the Open  
window, click Open, and click Next.  
3.  
4.  
You can decide whether to change  
the BIOS boot logo. Click Yes if you  
want to change the boot logo or No to  
continue.  
Follow the onscreen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual BIOS information  
vary by models.  
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at  
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.  
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3-49  
3.10.2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility  
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a  
bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility.  
Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website  
at www.asus.com.  
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:  
1.  
Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port.  
2.  
Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select  
ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.  
3.  
Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive field.  
4.  
Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS,  
and then press <Enter>.  
5.  
Press <Tab> to switch to the Folder Info field.  
6.  
Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the BIOS file, and then press <Enter> to perform  
the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.  
3-50  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and  
single partition only.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system  
boot failure!  
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select  
the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu for  
details.  
3.10.3  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility  
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the  
BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a  
corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains  
the BIOS file.  
The BIOS file in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS file published  
on the ASUS official website. If you want to use the newer BIOS file, download the file at  
support.asus.com and save it to a USB flash drive.  
Recovering the BIOS  
To recover the BIOS:  
1.  
Turn on the system.  
2.  
Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive, or the USB flash drive  
containing the BIOS file to the USB port.  
3.  
The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the utility  
reads the BIOS file and enters ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility automatically.  
4.  
The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS setting. To ensure  
system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press <F5> to load default  
BIOS values.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause  
system boot failure!  
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3-51  
 
3.10.4  
ASUS BIOS Updater  
The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also  
allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or  
gets corrupted during the updating process.  
The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may  
not be same as shown.  
Before updating BIOS  
1.  
Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive in FAT32/16 format and  
single partition.  
2.  
Download the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at http://  
support.asus.com and save them on the USB flash drive.  
NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS file and BIOS  
Updater to a hard disk drive or USB flash drive in NTFS format.  
Do not save the BIOS file to a floppy disk due to low disk capacity.  
3.  
Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).  
Booting the system in DOS environment  
1.  
Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the USB port.  
2.  
Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the BIOS  
Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the  
optical drive as the boot device.  
Please select boot device:  
SATA: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
USB XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
UEFI: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
Enter Setup  
and to move selection  
ENTER to select boot device  
ESC to boot using defaults  
3.  
4.  
When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by  
pressing the item number.  
At the FreeDOS prompt, type d:and press <Enter> to switch the disk from  
Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB flash drive).  
Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!  
C:\>d:  
D:\>  
3-52  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
Backing up the current BIOS  
To backup the current BIOS file using the BIOS Updater  
Ensure that the USB flash drive is not write-protected and has enough free space to save  
the file.  
1.  
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[filename]and press <Enter>.  
D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom  
Filename Extension  
The [filename] is any user-assigned filename with no more than eight alphanumeric  
characters for the filename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension.  
2.  
The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When  
BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt.  
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2011/04/29]  
Current ROM  
BOARD: P9X79 LE  
VER: 0228  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: 08/26/2011  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.  
Note  
Saving BIOS:  
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3-53  
Updating the BIOS file  
To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater  
1.  
2.  
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /gand press <Enter>.  
D:\>bupdater /pc /g  
The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.  
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2011/04/29]  
Current ROM  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
BOARD: P9X79 LE  
VER: 0228  
DATE: Unknown  
DATE: 08/26/2011  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
P8P67D.ROM  
4194304 2011-08-05 17:30:48  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
[Tab] Switch  
[B] Backup  
[V] Drive Info  
[Esc] Exit  
3.  
Press <Tab> to switch between screen fields and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys  
to select the BIOS file and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS file  
and prompts you to confirm BIOS update.  
Are you sure to update BIOS?  
Yes  
No  
4.  
Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS  
Updater. Restart your computer.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot  
failure!  
For BIOS Updater version 1.04 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS  
prompt after updating BIOS.  
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.  
Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See Chaper 3  
of your motherboard user manual for details.  
Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS file if you have  
disconnected them.  
3-54  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
Chapter 4  
Chapter 4:  
Software support  
4.1  
Installing an operating system  
This motherboard supports Windows® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista / 64-bit Vista / 7 / 64-bit 7  
operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to  
maximize the features of your hardware.  
Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented  
in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed  
information.  
Ensure that you install the Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before  
installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.  
4.2  
Support DVD information  
The support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software  
applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.  
The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the  
ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates.  
4.2.1  
Running the support DVD  
Place the support DVD into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if  
Autorun is enabled in your computer. Click each menu tab and select the items you want to install.  
The Make Disk menu  
contains items to  
create the RAID/AHCI  
driver disk.  
The Manual menu contains  
the list of supplementary user  
manuals. Click an item to open  
the folder of the user manual.  
The Drivers menu shows the available  
device drivers if the system detects  
installed devices. Install the necessary  
drivers to use the devices.  
Click the Contact  
tab to display the  
ASUS contact  
information.  
The Utilities  
menu shows the  
applications and  
other software that  
the motherboard  
supports.  
Click an icon  
to display DVD/  
motherboard  
information  
Click an item  
to install  
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to  
locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run  
the DVD.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-1  
 
4.2.2  
Obtaining the software manuals  
The software manuals are included in the support DVD. Follow the instructions below to get  
the necessary software manuals.  
The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe®  
Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the files.  
1.  
Click on the Manual tab. Click  
on ASUS Motherboard Utility  
Guide from the manual list on the  
left.  
2.  
The Manual folder of the support  
DVD appears. Double-click the  
folder of your selected software.  
3.  
Some software manuals are  
provided in different languages.  
Double-click the language to  
show the software manual.  
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual software manuals  
containing in the support DVD vary by models.  
4-2  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.3  
Software information  
Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you  
through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software  
application for more information.  
4.3.1  
AI Suite II  
AI Suite II is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows users to  
launch and operate these utilities simultaneously.  
Installing AI Suite II  
To install AI Suite II on your computer  
1.  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your  
computer has enabled the Autorun feature.  
2.  
3.  
Click on the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite II.  
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete installation.  
Using AI Suite II  
AI Suite II automatically starts when you enter the Windows® operating system (OS). The AI  
Suite II icon appears in the Windows® notification area. Click on the icon to open the AI Suite  
II main menu bar.  
Click on each button to select and launch a utility, to monitor the system, to update the  
motherboard BIOS, to display the system information, and to customize the settings of AI Suite II.  
Click to customize  
the interface settings  
Click to show the  
system information  
Click to update the motherboard BIOS  
Click to monitor sensors  
or CPU frequency  
Click to select a utility  
Shortcut to the Auto Tuning  
Mode under TurboV EVO  
The Auto Tuning button appears only on models with the TurboV EVO function.  
The applications in the Tool menu vary with models.  
The screenshots of AI Suite II in this user manual are for reference only. The actual  
screenshots vary with models.  
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website  
at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-3  
 
4.3.2  
TurboV EVO  
ASUS TurboV EVO introduces TurboV that allows you to manually adjust the CPU frequency  
and related voltages as well as Auto Tuning function that offers automatic and easy  
overclocking and system level up. After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support  
DVD, launch TurboV EVO by clicking Tool > TurboV EVO on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at  
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.  
TurboV  
TurboV allows you to overclock the BCLK frequency, CPU voltage, IMC voltage, and DRAM  
Bus voltage in Windows® environment and takes effect in real-time without exiting and  
rebooting the OS.  
Refer to the CPU documentation before adjusting CPU voltage settings. Setting a high  
voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the  
system unstable.  
For system stability, all changes made in TurboV will not be saved to BIOS settings and  
will not be kept on the next system boot. Use the Save Profile function to save your  
customized overclocking settings and manually load the profile after Windows starts.  
Click to select  
mode  
Load profile  
Target values  
Save the current  
settings as a  
new profile  
Current values  
Voltage  
Adjustment  
bars  
Click to show  
settings  
Undoes all changes  
without applying  
Click to restore  
all start-up  
settings  
Applies all changes  
immediately  
4-4  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
Using Advanced Mode  
Click on the Advanced Mode tab to adjust the advanced voltage settings.  
Advanced mode  
Target values  
Voltage  
Adjustment  
bars  
Undoes all changes  
without applying  
Current values  
Click to restore  
all start-up  
settings  
Applies all changes  
immediately  
CPU Ratio  
Allows you to manually adjust the CPU ratio.  
1.  
2.  
Click on the CPU Ratio tab.  
Click ON to activate the CPU Ratio function. The system automatically reboots for the  
changes to take effect.  
3.  
4.  
After system reboot, launch Turbo EVO again, and then click the CPU ratio tab. Drag  
the adjustment bar upwards or downwards to the desired value.  
Click on Apply to make the change take effect.  
CPU Ratio  
Adjustment bar  
Undoes all changes  
without applying  
Click to restore  
Applies all changes  
immediately  
all start-up  
settings  
Set the CPU Ratio Setting item in BIOS to [Auto] before using the CPU Ratio function  
in TurboV. Refer to Chapter 3 of your motherboard user manual for details.  
The CPU Ratio bars show the status of the CPU cores, which vary with your CPU  
model.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-5  
CPU Strap  
Allows you to manually adjust CPU Strap.  
1.  
2.  
Click on the CPU Strap tab.  
Click on the adjustment bar to the desired value. The graph on the right will change  
value accordingly.  
3.  
Click on Apply to make the change take effect.  
CPU Strap  
Adjustment bar  
Undoes all changes  
without applying  
Click to restore  
Applies all changes  
immediately  
all start-up  
settings  
Apply settings in CPU Ratio affect CPU Strap results.  
The value on the CPU Strap diagram varies with your CPU model.  
Auto Tuning  
ASUS TurboV EVO includes two auto tuning modes, providing the most flexible auto-tuning  
options.  
The overclocking result varies with the CPU model and the system configuration.  
To prevent overheating from damaging the motherboard, a better thermal environment  
is strongly recommended.  
Fast Tuning: fast CPU overclocking  
Extreme Tuning: extreme overclocking for CPU and memory  
Using Fast Tuning  
1.  
Click the Auto Tuning tab and  
then click Fast.  
2.  
Read through the warning  
messages and click OK to start  
auto-overclocking.  
4-6  
Chapter 4: Software support  
3.  
TurboV automatically overclocks  
the CPU, saves BIOS settings  
and restarts the system. After  
re-entering Windows, a message  
appears indicating auto tuning  
success. Click OK to exit.  
Using Extreme Tuning  
1.  
Click the Auto Tuning tab and then  
click Extreme.  
2.  
Read through the warning  
messages and click OK to start  
auto-overclocking.  
3.  
TurboV automatically overclocks  
the CPU and memory and restarts  
the system. After re-entering  
Windows, a message appears  
indicating the current overclocking  
result. To keep the result, click  
Stop.  
4.  
If you did not click Stop in  
the previous step, TurboV  
automatically starts further system  
overclocking and stability test.  
An animation appears indicating  
the overclocking process. Click  
Stop if you want to cancel the  
Overclocking process.  
5.  
TurboV automatically adjusts and  
saves BIOS settings and restarts  
the system. After re-entering  
Windows, a message appears  
indicating auto tuning success.  
Click OK to exit.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-7  
4.3.3  
DIGI+ Power Control  
DIGI+ PowerControl allows you to adjust VRM voltage and frequency modulation to enhance  
reliability and stability. It also provides the highest power efficiency, generating less heat to  
longer component lifespan and minimize power loss.  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch DIGI+ Power Control  
by clicking Tool > DIGI+ Power Control on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Select CPU Power or DRAM Power to adjust the power control settings.  
CPU Power  
4
5
1
2
Application aids  
3
Apply all changes  
immediately  
6
7
Undo all changes  
without applying  
Function no.  
Function description  
1
CPU Load-line Calibration  
It allows you to adjust the voltage settings and control the system temperature.  
Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking  
performance but increases the CPU and VRM thermal.  
2
3
4
5
6
CPU Current Capability  
CPU Current Capability provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher  
value setting gets higher VRM power consumption delivery.  
CPU Voltage Frequency  
Switching frequency will affect the VRM transient response and component thermal.  
Higher frequency gets quicker transient response.  
VCCSA Load-line Calibration  
The behavior of the DRAM Controller is decided by the VCCSA Load-line. Set to a  
higher value for system performance, or to a lower value for better thermal solution.  
VCCSA Current Capability  
A higher value brings wider total DRAM Controller power range and extends the  
overclocking frequency range simultaneously.  
CPU Power Phase Control  
Increase phase number under heavy system loading to get more transient and  
better thermal performance. Reduce phase number under light system loading to  
increase VRM efficiency.  
7
CPU Power Duty Control  
CPU Power Duty Control adjusts the current of every VRM phase and the thermal of  
every phase component.  
4-8  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
DRAM Power  
1
Application aids  
2
3
Apply all changes  
immediately  
Undo all changes  
without applying  
Function no.  
Function description  
DRAM Current Capability  
A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking  
frequency range simultaneously.  
1
2
3
DRAM Voltage Frequency  
Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency for system stability or to  
increase OC Range.  
DRAM Power Phase Control  
Select Extreme for full phase mode to increase system performance or select  
Optimized for ASUS optimized phase tuning profile to increase DRAM power  
efficiency.  
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU and DRAM  
specification.  
Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
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4.3.4  
EPU  
EPU is an energy-efficient tool that satisfies different computing needs. This utility provides  
several modes that you can select to save system power. Selecting Auto mode will have the  
system shift modes automatically according to current system status. You can also customize  
each mode by configuring settings like CPU frequency, GPU frequency, vCore Voltage, and  
Fan Control.  
Launching EPU  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch EPU by clicking  
Tool > EPU on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Displays the following message  
if no VGA power saving engine is  
detected.  
Multiple system  
operating modes  
The items lighting up  
means power saving  
engine is activated  
Displays the amount  
of CO2 reduced  
*Shifts between the  
display of Total and  
Current CO2 reduced  
Displays the current  
CPU power  
Advanced settings for each mode  
Displays the system  
properties of each mode  
*•  
*•  
Select From EPU Installation to show the CO2 that has been reduced since you  
installed EPU.  
Select From the Last Reset to show the total CO2 that has been reduced since you  
click the Clear button  
.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at  
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.  
4-10  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.3.5  
FAN Xpert+  
FAN Xpert+ intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds  
according to different ambient temperatures caused by different climate conditions in  
different geographic regions and your PC’s system loading. The built-in variety of useful  
profiles offer flexible automatic and manual fan speed controls to achieve a quiet and cool  
environment.  
Launching FAN Xpert+  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch FAN Xpert+ by  
clicking Tool > FAN Xpert+ on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Using FAN Xpert+  
Click Fan Name to select a fan and then click Setting to select a preset mode for your  
selected fan.  
Click to select a fan profile  
Click to select a fan type  
Click to apply the settings  
Click to discard the settings  
Fan setting  
Disable: disables the FAN Xpert+ function.  
Standard: adjusts fan speed in a moderate pattern.  
Silent: minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation.  
Turbo: maximizes the fan speed for the best cooling effect.  
Intelligent: automatically adjusts the CPU fan speed according to the ambient  
temperature.  
Stable: fixes the CPU fan speed to avoid noise caused by the unsteady fan rotation.  
However, the fan will speed up when the temperature exceeds 70°C.  
User: Allows you to configure the CPU fan profile under certain limitations.  
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at  
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-11  
 
4.3.6  
Sensor Recorder  
Sensor Recorder monitors the changes in the system voltage, temperature, and fan speed on  
a timeline. The History Record function allows you to designate specific time spans on record  
to keep track of the three system statuses for certain purposes.  
Launching Sensor Recorder  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Sensor Recorder by  
clicking Tool > Sensor Recorder on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Using Sensor Recorder  
Click on Voltage/ Temperature/ Fan Speed tabs for the status you want to monitor. Colored  
lines will automatically appear on the diagram to indicate the immediate changes in the  
system status.  
Using History Record  
1.  
Click on the History Record tab and adjust the settings on the left for Record Interval  
and Record Duration according to need.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Click on Start Recording and start measurement and record of each sensor.  
When stop recording, click on Recording again to interrupt record.  
In order to track the recorded contents, please choose the Date / Type / Select display  
items to display the history detail.  
Click on Monitor > Sensor on the AI Suite II main menu bar and a highlight of the system  
statuses will appear on the right panel.  
4-12  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.3.7  
Probe II  
Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you  
of any problem with these components. Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature,  
and system voltages, among others. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is  
always at a healthy operating condition.  
Launching Probe II  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Probe II by clicking  
Tool > Probe II on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Configuring Probe II  
Click the Voltage/Temperature/Fan Speed tabs to activate the sensors or to adjust the  
sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize the time interval of  
sensor alerts, or change the temperature unit.  
Saves your  
configuration  
Loads your saved  
Applies your  
changes  
Loads the default  
threshold values  
for each sensor  
configuration  
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at  
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-13  
 
4.3.8  
USB 3.0 Boost  
The ASUS exclusive USB 3.0 Boost provides speed boost for USB 3.0 devices and the  
up-to-date support of USB Attached SCSI Protocol (UASP). With USB 3.0 Boost, you can  
accelerate the transfer speed of your USB 3.0 devices with ease.  
Launching USB 3.0 Boost  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch USB 3.0 Boost by  
clicking Tool > USB 3.0 Boost on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Configuring USB 3.0 Boost  
1.  
2.  
Connect a USB 3.0 device to the USB 3.0 port.  
USB 3.0 Boost automatically detects the property of the connected device and  
switches to Turbo mode or UASP mode (if UASP is supported by the connected  
device).  
3.  
You can manually switch the USB 3.0 mode back to Normal mode at any time.  
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at  
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.  
4-14  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.3.9  
USB BIOS Flashback  
This utility allows you to check and save the latest BIOS version to a USB storage device.  
With ASUS USB BIOS Flashback hardware feature, the system BIOS is conveniently  
updated without booting your system.  
Current BIOS  
information  
Sets the schedule  
for BIOS Update  
download  
Click to check for  
an update BIOS  
firmware available for  
download  
Cancels all changes  
Applies all changes  
Scheduling the latest BIOS download  
1.  
In the Download Setting field, tick Schedule (days) and select the number of days for the next  
download update available.  
2.  
Click Apply to save the BIOS download schedule. Click Cancel to cancel the changes made.  
Downloading the updated BIOS  
Plug the flash drive before you start downloading.  
1.  
2.  
Click Check for New BIOS Update to look for an updated BIOS firmware.  
Wait for the system to check the latest  
BIOS firmware.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-15  
 
1.  
After the utility detects a new BIOS  
firmware, save the BIOS firmware by  
clicking  
from the Save to field,  
select the USB flashdrive, and click  
Download.  
2.  
After the download is complete,  
click OK.  
After you download the BIOS file to your flash drive, you can update the motherboard’s BIOS.  
Refer to 2.3.10 USB BIOS Flashback for details.  
4-16  
Chapter 4: Software support  
4.3.10  
Remote GO!  
Connect your computer to a wireless network and use Remote GO! to wirelessly stream  
media files to DLNA devices. It allows you to remotely control and access your computer  
using your mobile device, and easily transfer files between your computer and mobile device.  
Remote GO! is supported only on Windows® 7.  
All devices using the Remote GO! functions must be in the same network.  
Using Remote GO!  
To launch Remote GO!, click Tool > Remote GO! on the AI Suite II menu bar.  
Allows you to set a  
password  
Application  
help  
Remote GO!  
menu  
Remote GO! functions  
DLNA Media Hub: Provides support to the latest DLNA standard, and allows you to  
stream media files to a DLNA-supported device.  
Remote Desktop: Allows you to view your computer’s desktop and remotely operate  
your computer in real-time from your mobile device.  
File Transfer: Allows you to transfer files between your computer and mobile device.  
Launch W-Fi GO! Remote on your mobile device to use W-Fi GO! Remote control  
functions. For more details, refer to next section W-Fi GO! Remote.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-17  
 
W-Fi GO! Remote  
Install the W-Fi GO! Remote application on your mobile device to use Remote GO!’s remote  
control functions.  
Wi-Fi GO! Remote supports iOS 4.0/Android 2.3 mobile devices or later versions.  
For iOS devices, download the W-Fi GO! Remote from iTunes store. For Android  
devices, download the W-Fi GO! Remote from Google Play Store or from ASUS  
support DVD.  
Launching W-Fi GO! Remote  
1.  
Turn on your mobile device’s wireless connection. Ensure that your mobile device is  
within the same network as your computer.  
2.  
On your mobile device, tap  
and  
tap Enter on the W-Fi GO! Remote  
page.  
3.  
Tap the computer you want to  
connect to your mobile device.  
4.  
Tap the computer you want to  
connect to your mobile device.  
4-18  
Chapter 4: Software support  
W-Fi GO! Remote menu  
The W-Fi GO! Remote’s user interface shown above is for reference only and may vary  
with the mobile device’s operating system.  
Below are the supported screen resolution of your mobile devices:  
Screen type  
Low Density  
(120, ldpi)  
Medium Density  
(160, mdpi)  
High Density  
(240, hdpi)  
Extra high density  
(320, xhdpi)  
QVGA  
(240 x 320)  
Small creen  
480 x 640  
WVGA800  
(480 x 800)  
WQVGA400  
(240 x 400)  
HVGA  
Normal screen  
640 x 960  
WVGA854  
(480 x 854)  
600 x 1024  
(320 x 480)  
WQVGA432  
(240 x 432)  
WVGA800  
(480 x 800)  
WVGA800  
(480 x 800)  
Large screen  
WVGA854  
(480 x 854)  
WVGA854  
(480 x 854)  
600 x 1024  
WXGA  
(1280 x 800)  
1536 x 1152  
1920 x 1152  
1920 x 1200  
2048 x 1536  
2560 x 1536  
2560 x 1600  
Extra large screen  
1024 x 600  
1024 x 768  
1280 x 768  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-19  
DLNA Media Hub  
DLNA Media Hub allows you to stream your multimedia files to your DLNA-supported device  
and remotely control playback using your mobile device or your computer.  
Click to select  
media file type  
Tick to select  
source location  
Click to refresh  
media files  
Media files pane  
Displays the target  
receiver’s name  
and the media file  
currently playing  
Click to go back  
to main menu  
Click to edit the playlist  
Click to select receiver  
Using the DLNA Media Hub  
1.  
2.  
From the main screen, click DLNA Media Hub.  
Click  
to select a device as your receiver.  
When using your DLNA display (such as DLNA TV) as the receiver, ensure that  
DLNA function is enabled.  
When using another computer as the receiver, launch Windows Media Player,  
click Stream > Allow remote control of my Player to remotely control media  
playback.  
When using the computer as sender and receiver, launch Windows Media  
Player, click Stream > Allow remote control of my Player and Automatically  
allow devices to play my media.  
Only computers under Windows® 7 support the DLNA Media Hub function.  
Keep the Windows Media Player open. Ensure that your media file formats supported  
on Windows Media Player and DLNA playback devices.  
3.  
Click any of the tabs to select your preferred media file type.  
4-20  
Chapter 4: Software support  
To play music:  
1.  
2.  
Click Music tab.  
Tick Library to view or play  
files.  
Tick Playlist and select an  
existing playlist from the  
dropdown list.  
3.  
Click a music file, and click  
.
To edit the library:  
1.  
2.  
Tick Library.  
Click  
to add or delete music  
files.  
3.  
4.  
Click Add and locate the file from  
the directory. To delete, tick the  
selected file and click Delete.  
Click OK.  
To edit the music playlist:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Tick Playlist.  
Click  
.
Tick to select or deselect the  
music file and click Save Profile.  
4.  
Select the profile name and click  
Save. To add as a new playlist,  
key in your profile name and click  
Save.  
5.  
To delete playlist, select the profile  
and click  
.
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-21  
To play a video file:  
1.  
2.  
Click Video tab.  
Tick Library to view the video files  
from your local computer. Tick  
Playlist to view the video files  
saved in your profile.  
3.  
Click the video file you want to  
watch, and click  
.
Change the resolution from the  
Quality dropdown list.  
To edit the video library:  
1.  
2.  
Tick Library.  
Click  
to add or delete video  
files.  
3.  
4.  
Click Add and locate the file from  
the directory. To delete, tick the  
selected file and click Delete.  
Click OK.  
To edit the video playlist:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Tick Playlist.  
Click  
.
Tick to select or deselect the video  
file and click Save Profile.  
4.  
Select the profile name and click  
Save. To add as a new playlist,  
key in your profile name and click  
Save.  
5.  
To delete playlist, select the profile  
and click  
.
4-22  
Chapter 4: Software support  
To view images:  
1.  
2.  
Click Photo tab.  
Tick Library to view the image  
files from your local computer. Tick  
Playlist to view the image files  
saved in your profile.  
An image slideshow plays when  
pressing  
.
To edit the image library:  
1.  
2.  
Tick Library.  
Click  
to add or delete image  
files.  
3.  
4.  
Click Add and locate the file from  
the directory. To delete, tick the  
selected file and click Delete.  
Click OK.  
To edit the image playlist:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Tick Playlist.  
Click  
.
Tick to select or deselect the  
image file and click Save Profile.  
4.  
Select the profile name and click  
Save. To add as a new playlist,  
key in your profile name and click  
Save.  
5.  
To delete playlist, select the profile  
and click  
.
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-23  
Using the DLNA Media Hub via W-Fi GO! Remote  
You can access the DLNA Media Hub on your mobile device via W-Fi GO! Remote.  
1.  
2.  
Tap DLNA Media Hub.  
Select and tap the receiver name.  
3.  
4.  
The mobile device shows the information of the DLNA Media Hub function. Tap Enter  
to proceed to the Remote GO! function.  
Tap Music, Video or Photo, to play.  
Your mobile device’s WI-FI GO! Remote interface may vary with the mobile device’s  
operating system.  
Remote Desktop  
Remote Desktop allows you to view your computer’s desktop and remotely operate your  
computer in real-time from your mobile device.  
Using the Remote Desktop  
1.  
2.  
From the main screen, click Remote Desktop.  
Click Setting.  
4-24  
Chapter 4: Software support  
3.  
4.  
Select a suitable codec Auto, Speed optimization, or Image optimization for your  
mobile device.  
Click Apply.  
Click to select  
a video codec  
Application help  
Click to go back  
to previous  
screen  
Using the Remote Desktop via W-Fi GO! Remote  
When the Remote Desktop is enabled, the mobile device shows the contents of your  
desktop.  
The W-Fi GO! Remote’s user interface shown above is for reference only and may vary  
with the mobile device’s operating system.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-25  
File Transfer  
Allows you to transfer files wirelessly between your computer and mobile device.  
Before using File Transfer, ensure that your computer is connected to your mobile device.  
For more details, refer to the section Wi-Fi GO! Remote.  
Application help  
Destination path for  
Destination  
the files transferred  
path for the files  
from mobile device  
transferred from  
desktop to mobile  
to desktop  
device  
Click to go  
back to main  
menu  
Click to select a destination path for  
your file transfer  
Android mobile devices can send and receive files.  
iOS mobile devices can only send files.  
Using File Transfer  
1.  
Right-click the file and click Send to > [Device name].  
After the transfer is complete, click OK.  
2.  
Using File Transfer via W-Fi GO! Remote  
1.  
2.  
3.  
On your mobile device, tap File Transfer.  
Tap Enable to receive files from PC.  
Tap Enter to send files to PC.  
4-26  
Chapter 4: Software support  
Tap to select  
the file’s source  
location  
Tap to select files  
for transfer  
Tap to send  
selected files  
Tap to select  
all files  
Tap to clear all  
files  
The W-Fi GO! Remote’s user interface shown above is for reference only and may vary  
with the mobile device’s operating system.  
Securing your computer for Wi-Fi GO! Remote functions  
Remote GO! Settings allows you to create a password for your computer.  
To create a password:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Click  
in the main menu.  
Tick Use Password and key in your password.  
Click Apply.  
Tick to enable  
password  
Key in your  
password  
Click to go  
back to main  
menu  
Click to apply  
settings made  
When you launch the Wi-Fi GO! Remote, the application prompts you to key in the  
computer’s password.  
Your password must contain 6-12 letters or numbers.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-27  
4.3.11  
ASUS Update  
ASUS Update lays out the options for updating BIOS on your system. Update BIOS utility  
on your system or simply save the utility for later use just by following the directions on this  
convenient updating feature.  
Launching ASUS Update  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS Update by  
clicking Update> ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Using ASUS Update  
Select the way you would like to do with the BIOS utility. Click on Next and follow the  
instructions to complete your request.  
Update BIOS from Internet  
Download the latest BIOS utility from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com) and  
follow the suggested procedures to update the BIOS version on your system.  
Download BIOS from Internet  
Download the latest BIOS utility from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com) and  
save for later use.  
Update BIOS from file  
Use the BIOS utility demanded from a source file to update the BIOS version on your  
system.  
Save BIOS to file  
Back up the current BIOS utility on your system to another file or USB disk to save for  
later use.  
There may be risks of system crash when updating BIOS. Backing up the original BIOS  
utility is recommended before updating.  
4-28  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.3.12  
MyLogo2  
This MyLogo utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears  
on screen during the Power-On-Self-Tests (POST). Personalize your computer from the very  
beginning!  
Launching ASUS Update  
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch MyLogo by clicking  
Update> MyLogo on the AI Suite II main menu bar.  
Using MyLogo  
Select the way you would like to do update your boot logo. Then click Next and follow the  
given instructions.  
Change the BIOS boot logo of my motherboard  
1.  
Under Current BIOS, click Browse and choose the desired image for your boot logo.  
Then click on Next.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-29  
 
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
Click on Auto Tune to adjust image size compatibility or adjust the resolution bar.  
You can click on Booting Preview to preview the boot image. Then click Next.  
Click on Flash to start updating the image to the boot logo.  
Click on Yes to reboot or you can also see the new logo next time you restart your  
computer.  
Change the boot logo of a downloaded BIOS file and update (or do not update) this  
BIOS to the motherboard  
1.  
At BIOS File, Browse to download the requested BIOS file to your system. This utility  
will help you detect the compatibility of the BIOS version.  
2.  
3.  
Then at Picture File, Browse to select the desired image for boot logo. Click Next.  
Follow steps 2-5 in Change the BIOS boot logo of my motherboard to complete  
logo update.  
The fullscreen logo application in BIOS utility must be enabled for MyLogo to take effect.  
4-30  
Chapter 4: Software support  
4.3.13  
Audio configurations  
The Realtek® audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio  
experience on your computer. The software provides Jack-Sensing function, S/PDIF Out  
support, and interrupt capability. The CODEC also includes the Realtek® proprietary UAJ®  
(Universal Audio Jack) technology for all audio ports, eliminating cable connection errors and  
giving users plug and play convenience.  
Follow the installation wizard to install the Realtek® Audio Driver from the support DVD that  
came with the motherboard package.  
If the Realtek audio software is correctly installed, you will find the Realtek HD Audio  
Manager icon on the taskbar. Double-click on the icon to display the Realtek HD Audio  
Manager.  
A. Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows® 7™ / Vista™  
Configuration option tabs (vary with the audio devices connected)  
Device advanced  
settings  
Exit button  
Minimize button  
Information button  
Control settings  
Set default device buttons  
Connector settings  
Analog and digital connector status  
B. Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows XP  
Exit button  
Configuration  
options  
Minimize button  
Control settings  
window  
Information  
button  
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at  
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-31  
 
4.4  
RAID configurations  
The motherboard supports the following SATA RAID solutions:  
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support.  
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial  
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using  
Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.  
Due to Windows® XP / Vista limitation, a RAID array with the total capacity over 2TB  
cannot be set as a boot disk. A RAID array over 2TB can only be set as a data disk  
only.  
If you want to install a Windows® operating system to a hard disk drive included in a  
RAID set, you have to create a RAID driver disk and load the RAID driver during OS  
installation. Refer to section 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk for details.  
4.4.1  
RAID definitions  
RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in  
parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a  
sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access  
and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives is required for this setup.  
RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from one drive to  
a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software directs all applications  
to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of the data in the other drive. This RAID  
configuration provides data protection and increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use  
two new drives or use an existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be  
of the same size or larger than the existing drive.  
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard disk drives. Among  
the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and  
higher storage capacity. The RAID 5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing,  
relational database applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems.  
Use a minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.  
RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy data) having  
to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 configuration you get all the benefits of both  
RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive  
and three new drives for this setup.  
4-32  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.4.2  
Installing Serial ATA hard disks  
The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install  
identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.  
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.  
Connect the SATA signal cables.  
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.  
4.4.3  
Setting the RAID item in BIOS  
You must enable the RAID function in the BIOS Setup before creating RAID set(s) using  
SATA HDDs. To do this:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Enter the BIOS Setup during POST.  
Go to the Advanced menu > SATA Configuration, and then press <Enter>.  
Set the SATA Mode item to [RAID Mode].  
Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup.  
Refer to Chapter 3 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup.  
Due to chipset limitation, when set any of SATA ports to RAID mode, all SATA ports run at  
RAID mode together.  
4.4.4  
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility  
To enter the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility:  
1.  
2.  
Turn on the system.  
During POST, press <Ctrl> + <I> to display the utility main menu.  
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032  
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ MAIN MENU ]  
1. Create RAID Volume  
2. Delete RAID Volume  
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID  
4. Recovery Volume Options  
5. Exit  
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]  
RAID Volumes:  
None defined.  
Physical Devices:  
Port Device Model  
Serial #  
9LS0HJA4  
9LS0F4HL  
3LS0JYL8  
9LS0BJ5H  
Size Type/Status(Vol ID)  
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS  
ST3160812AS  
ST3160812AS  
ST3160812AS  
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk  
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk  
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk  
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk  
[↑↓]-Select  
[ESC]-Exit  
[ENTER]-Select Menu  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-33  
 
The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through the menus  
and select the menu options.  
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and may not  
exactly match the items on your screen.  
The utility supports maximum four hard disk drives for RAID configuration.  
Creating a RAID set  
To create a RAID set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The  
following screen appears:  
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032  
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]  
Name: Volume0  
RAID Level: RAID0(Stripe)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size:  
128KB  
Capacity: 0.0  
Sync: N/A  
GB  
Create Volume  
[ HELP ]  
Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is  
16 characters or less.  
[↑↓]Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[ENTER]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID set and press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is selected, press the up/down arrow key to select a RAID  
level to create, and then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the Disks item is selected, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives you want  
to include in the RAID set. The SELECT DISKS screen appears:  
[ SELECT DISKS ]  
Port Drive Model  
Serial #  
9LS0HJA4  
9LS0F4HL  
3LS0JYL8  
9LS0BJ5H  
Size Status  
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS  
ST3160812AS  
ST3160812AS  
ST3160812AS  
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk  
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk  
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk  
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk  
Select 2 to 6 disks to use in creating the volume.  
]-Prev/Next [SPACE]-SelectDisk [ENTER]-Done  
[
↑↓  
4-34  
Chapter 4: Software support  
5.  
Use the up/down arrow key to select a drive, and then press <Space> to select. A small  
triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection.  
6.  
Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID array (for RAID 0, 10  
and 5 only),and then press <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4KB  
to 128KB. The following are typical values:  
RAID 0: 128KB  
RAID 10: 64KB  
RAID 5: 64KB  
We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for  
multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.  
7.  
8.  
When the Capacity item is selected, enter the RAID volume capacity that you want  
and press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity.  
When the Create Volume item is selected, press <Enter>. The following warning  
message appears:  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
9.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to go back  
to the CREATE VOLUME menu.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-35  
Deleting a RAID set  
Take caution when deleting a RAID set. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when  
you delete a RAID set.  
To delete a RAID set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 2. Delete RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The  
following screen appears:  
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.0.0.1032  
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ DELETE VOLUME MENU ]  
Name  
Volume0  
Level  
RAID0(Stripe)  
Drives  
2
Capacity  
298.0GB  
Status  
Normal  
Bootable  
Yes  
[ HELP ]  
Deleting a volume will reset the disks to non-RAID.  
WARNING: ALL DISK DATA WILL BE DELETED.  
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)  
[↑↓]-Select  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[DEL]-Delete Volume  
2.  
Use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set you want to delete, and then press  
<Del>. The following warning message appears:  
[ DELETE VOLUME VERIFICATION ]  
ALL DATA IN THE VOLUME WILL BE LOST!  
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)  
Are you sure you want to delete volume “Volume0”? (Y/N):  
3.  
Press <Y> to delete the RAID set and return to the utility main menu, or press <N> to  
return to the DELETE VOLUME menu.  
Exiting the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility  
To exit the utility:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 5. Exit, and then press <Enter>. The following  
warning message appears:  
[ CONFIRM EXIT ]  
Are you sure you want to exit? (Y/N):  
2.  
Press <Y> to exit or press <N> to return to the utility main menu.  
4-36  
Chapter 4: Software support  
4.5  
Creating a RAID driver disk  
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing a Windows® operating system  
on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set.  
The motherboard does not provide a floppy drive connector. You have to use a  
USB floppy disk drive when creating a SATA RAID driver disk.  
Windows® XP may not recognize the USB floppy disk drive due to Windows® XP  
limitation. To work around this OS limitation, refer to section 4.5.4 Using a USB  
floppy disk drive.  
4.5.1  
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS  
To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
7.  
8.  
Boot your computer.  
Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility.  
Set the optical drive as the primary boot device.  
Insert the support DVD into the optical drive.  
Save changes and exit BIOS.  
When the Make Disk menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk.  
Insert a formatted floppy disk into the USB floppy disk drive, then press <Enter>.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.  
4.5.2  
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®  
To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Start Windows®.  
Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk.  
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.  
Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click Intel X79 RAID Driver Disk to create a  
RAID driver disk.  
5.  
Select USB floppy disk drive as the destination disk.  
6.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.  
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid a computer virus infection.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-37  
 
4.5.3  
Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation  
To install the RAID driver in Windows® XP:  
1.  
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-  
party SCSI or RAID driver.  
2.  
Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the USB floppy disk drive.  
3.  
When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, select the RAID driver for the  
corresponding OS version.  
4.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
To install the RAID driver for Windows® Vista or later OS:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation  
media containing the RAID driver.  
Insert the USB flash drive with RAID driver into the USB port or the support DVD into  
the optical drive, and then click Browse.  
Click the name of the device you’ve inserted, go to Drivers > RAID, and then select  
the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. Click OK.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
Before loading the RAID driver from a USB flash drive, you have to use another computer  
to copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to the USB flash drive.  
4-38  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.5.4  
Using a USB floppy disk drive  
Due to OS limitation, Windows® XP may not recognize the USB floppy disk drive when you  
install the RAID driver from a floppy disk during the OS installation.  
To solve this issue, add the USB floppy disk drive’s Vendor ID (VID) and Product ID (PID) to  
the floppy disk containing the RAID driver. Refer to the steps below:  
1.  
Using another computer, plug the USB floppy disk drive, and insert the floppy disk  
containing the RAID driver.  
2.  
Right-click My Computer on the  
Windows® desktop or start menu,  
and then select Manage from the  
pop-up window.  
or  
3.  
Select Device Manager. From the  
Universal Serial Bus controllers,  
right-click xxxxxx USB Floppy, and  
then select Properties from the pop-up  
window.  
The name of the USB floppy disk  
drive varies with different vendors.  
4.  
Click Details tab. The Vendor ID (VID)  
and Product ID (PID) are displayed.  
5.  
Browse the contents of the RAID driver  
disk to locate the file txtsetup.oem.  
6.  
Double-click the file. A window appears,  
allowing you to select the program for  
opening the oem file.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
4-39  
 
7.  
Use Notepad to open the file.  
8.  
9.  
Find the [HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer] and  
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer] sections in the txtsetup.oem  
file.  
Type the following line to the bottom of the two sections:  
id = “USB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxx”, “usbstor”  
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer]  
id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1C02&CC_0106”,”iaStor”  
id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor”  
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer]  
id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2822&CC_0104”,”iaStor”  
id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor”  
Add the same line to both sections.  
The VID and PID vary with different vendors.  
10. Save and exit the file.  
4-40  
Chapter 4: Software support  
Chapter 5  
Chapter 5:  
Multiple GPU technology support  
5.1  
AMD® CrossFireX™ technology  
The motherboard supports the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology that allows you to install  
multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in  
this section.  
5.1.1  
Requirements  
In Dual CrossFireX mode, you should have two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics  
cards or one CrossFireX-ready dual-GPU graphics card that are AMD® certified.  
Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the AMD CrossFireX technology.  
Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com).  
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power  
required by your system. See Chapter 2 for details.  
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.  
Visit the AMD Game website (http://game.amd.com) for the latest certified graphics  
card and the supported 3D application list.  
5.1.2  
Before you begin  
For AMD CrossFireX to work properly, you have to uninstall all existing graphics card drivers  
before installing AMD CrossFireX graphics cards to your system.  
To uninstall existing graphics card drivers:  
1.  
2.  
Close all current applications.  
For Windows XP, go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs.  
For Windows Vista, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features.  
3.  
4.  
Select your current graphics card driver/s.  
For Windows XP, select Add/Remove.  
For Windows Vista, select Uninstall.  
5.  
Turn off your computer.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
5-1  
 
5.1.3  
Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards  
The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard  
layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same.  
1.  
2.  
Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics  
cards.  
Insert the two graphics card into the  
PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard  
has more than two PCIEX16 slots,  
refer to Chapter 2 in this user manual  
for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots  
recommended for multi-graphics card  
installation.  
3.  
Ensure that the cards are properly  
seated on the slots.  
4.  
Align and firmly insert the CrossFireX  
bridge connector to the goldfingers on  
each graphics card. Ensure that the  
connector is firmly in place.  
goldfingers  
CrossFireX bridge  
(bundled with  
graphics cards)  
5.  
6.  
Connect two independent auxiliary power  
sources from the power supply to the two  
graphics cards separately.  
Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the  
graphics card.  
5-2  
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support  
 
5.1.4  
Installing three CrossFireX™ graphics cards  
1.  
2.  
Prepare three CrossFireX-ready graphics cards.  
Insert the three graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard has more  
than three PCIEX16 slots, refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual for the locations of the  
PCIEX16 slots recommended for multi-graphics card installation.  
3.  
Ensure that the cards are properly seated on the slots.  
5.  
6.  
Connect three independent auxiliary  
power sources from the power supply to  
the three graphics cards separately.  
Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the  
graphics card.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
5-3  
 
5.1.5  
Installing the device drivers  
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device  
drivers.  
Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the AMD® CrossFireX™  
technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com).  
5.1.6  
Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology  
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the CrossFireX™ feature  
through the AMD Catalyst™ Control Center in Windows environment.  
Launching the AMD Catalyst Control Center  
To launch the AMD Catalyst Control Center:  
1.  
Right-click on the Windows® desktop and select  
Catalyst Control Center.  
2.  
Click Catalyst Control Center to configure the  
displays and settings of your AMD graphic cards.  
5-4  
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support  
 
Enabling Dual CrossFireX technology  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
In the Catalyst Control Center window, click Performance > AMD CrossFireXTM  
Select Enable CrossFireXTM  
.
.
Select a GPU combination from the drop-down list.  
Click Apply to save and activate the GPU settings made.  
2
1
3
4
ASUS P9X79 LE  
5-5  
5.2  
NVIDIA® SLI™ technology  
The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology that  
allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the  
installation procedures in this section.  
5.2.1  
Requirements  
In SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®  
certified.  
Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download the  
latest driver from the NVIDIA website at www.nvidia.com.  
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power  
required by your system.  
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.  
Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified graphics  
card and supported 3D application list.  
5.2.2  
Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards  
The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard  
layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same.  
1.  
2.  
Prepare two SLI-ready graphics cards.  
Insert the two graphics card into the  
PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard  
has more than two PCIEX16 slots,  
refer to Chapter 2 in this user manual  
for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots  
recommended for multi-graphics card  
installation.  
3.  
Ensure that the cards are properly seated  
on the slots.  
5-6  
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support  
 
4.  
5.  
6.  
Align and firmly insert the SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics  
card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place.  
Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two  
graphics cards separately.  
Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the  
graphics card.  
SLI bridge  
Goldfingers  
5.2.3  
Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards  
1.  
2.  
Prepare three SLI-ready graphics cards.  
Insert the three graphics card into the  
PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard  
has more than two PCIEX16 slots,  
refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual  
for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots  
recommended for multi-graphics card  
installation.  
3.  
Ensure that the cards are properly  
seated on the slots.  
4.  
Align and firmly insert the 3-Way SLI  
bridge connector to the goldfingers on  
each graphics card. Ensure that the  
connector is firmly in place.  
5.  
Connect three independent auxiliary  
power sources from the power supply to  
the three graphics cards separately.  
3-Way SLI bridge  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
5-7  
 
5.2.4  
Installing the device drivers  
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device  
drivers.  
Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology.  
Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).  
5.2.5  
Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology  
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the SLI feature in NVIDIA®  
Control Panel under the Windows® 7 operating system.  
Launching the NVIDIA Control Panel  
You can launch the NVIDIA Control Panel by the following two methods.  
A.  
Right click on the empty space of the Windows® desktop and select NVIDIA Control  
Panel.  
The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears (See Step  
B3).  
B1. If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step  
(A), select Screen Resolution.  
5-8  
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support  
 
B2. From the Screen Resolution window,  
click Advanced settings.  
B3. The NVIDIA Control Panel window  
appears.  
Enabling SLI settings  
From the NVIDIA Control Panel window,  
select Configure SLI, Surround, PhysX.  
In the Quad-SLI enabled, click Maximize  
3D Performance SLI to set the display for  
viewing SLI rendered content. When done,  
click Apply.  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
5-9  
5-10  
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support  
Appendices  
Appendices  
Notices  
Federal Communications Commission Statement  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two  
conditions:  
This device may not cause harmful interference.  
This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause  
undesired operation.  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital  
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide  
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This  
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed  
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference  
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur  
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or  
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user  
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:  
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is  
connected.  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required  
to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not  
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority  
to operate this equipment.  
IC: Canadian Compliance Statement  
Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specifications. This device complies with RSS  
210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian  
interference-causing equipment regulations.  
This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is  
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2)  
this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired  
operation of the device.  
Cut appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le  
matériel brouilleur du Canada.  
Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence d’Industrie Canada. Le  
fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :  
(1) cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences et  
(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence, y compris celles susceptibles de provoquer  
un fonctionnement non souhaité de l’appareil.  
A-1  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
 
Canadian Department of Communications Statement  
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from  
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department  
of Communications.  
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement  
VCCI Class B Statement  
KC: Korea Warning Statement  
REACH  
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of  
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at  
ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.  
DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to  
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin  
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in  
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.  
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol  
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal  
waste.  
ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services  
ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards for  
protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to responsibly  
recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging materials. Please  
go to http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm for detailed recycling information in different  
regions.  
A-2  
Appendices  
RF Equipment Notices  
CE: European Community Compliance Statement  
The equipment complies with the RF Exposure Requirement 1999/519/EC, Council  
Recommendation of 12 July 1999 on the limitation of exposure of the general public to  
electromagnetic fields (0–300 GHz). This wireless device complies with the R&TTE Directive.  
Wireless Radio Use  
This device is restricted to indoor use when operating in the 5.15 to 5.25 GHz frequency  
band.  
Exposure to Radio Frequency Energy  
The radiated output power of the Wi-Fi technology is below the FCC radio frequency  
exposure limits. Nevertheless, it is advised to use the wireless equipment in such a manner  
that the potential for human contact during normal operation is minimized.  
FCC Bluetooth Wireless Compliance  
The antenna used with this transmitter must not be colocated or operated in conjunction with  
any other antenna or transmitter subject to the conditions of the FCC Grant.  
Bluetooth Industry Canada Statement  
This Class B device meets all requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment  
regulations.  
Cet appareil numérique de la Class B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le  
matériel brouilleur du Canada.  
BSMI: Taiwan Wireless Statement  
Japan RF Equipment Statement  
KC (RF Equipment)  
A-3  
ASUS P9X79 LE  
 
A-4  
Appendices  
ASUS contact information  
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.  
Address  
Telephone  
Fax  
E-mail  
Web site  
15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259  
+886-2-2894-3447  
+886-2-2890-7798  
www.asus.com.tw  
Technical Support  
Telephone  
Online support  
+86-21-38429911  
support.asus.com  
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)  
Address  
Telephone  
Fax  
800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA  
+1-812-282-3777  
+1-510-608-4555  
usa.asus.com  
Web site  
Technical Support  
Telephone  
Support fax  
+1-812-282-2787  
+1-812-284-0883  
support.asus.com  
Online support  
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)  
Address  
Fax  
Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany  
+49-2102-959911  
Web site  
Online contact  
www.asus.de  
www.asus.de/sales  
Technical Support  
Telephone  
Support Fax  
+49-1805-010923*  
+49-2102-9599-11  
support.asus.com  
Online support  
* EUR 0.14/minute from a German fixed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.  

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