Asus Computer Hardware 90MIBH40G0AAY00Z User Manual

P9X79  
PRO  
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Contents  
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Contents  
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Contents  
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®..................................4-30  
Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology.............................5-3  
Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology .....................................5-5  
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Notices  
Federal Communications Commission Statement  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two  
conditions:  
This device may not cause harmful interference, and  
This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause  
undesired operation.  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital  
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide  
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This  
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed  
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference  
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur  
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or  
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user  
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:  
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is  
connected.  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required  
to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not  
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority  
to operate this equipment.  
Canadian Department of Communications Statement  
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from  
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department  
of Communications.  
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
REACH  
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of  
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at  
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.  
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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.  
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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 AMD® 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.  
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Conventions used in this guide  
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used  
throughout this manual.  
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to  
complete a task.  
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to  
complete a task.  
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.  
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.  
Typography  
Bold text  
Italics  
Indicates a menu or an item to select.  
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.  
<Key>  
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means  
that you must press the enclosed key.  
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or  
Return key.  
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key  
names are linked with a plus sign (+).  
Example: <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Del>  
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P9X79 PRO specifications summary  
CPU  
2nd Generation Intel® Core ™ i7 processor family for the LGA  
2011 Socket  
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0  
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  
3 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots (Dual at x16/ x16 mode; Triple at  
x16/ x8/ x8 mode)  
1 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIe x16_3 at x8 mode)  
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots  
* This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Function  
will be available when using PCIe 3.0-compliant devices. Please  
refer to www.asus.com for updated details.  
Supports NVIDIA® 3-Way SLI™ Technology  
Multi-GPU support  
Storage  
Supports AMD® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology  
Intel® X79 Express Chipset  
-
-
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support  
4 x SATA 3Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support  
Marvell® 9128 SATA controllers  
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports  
-
ASMedia® 1061 SATA controllers  
2 x Power eSATA 6Gb/s ports  
-
Intel® 82579V Gigabit LAN controller  
LAN  
Bluetooth v2.1 + EDR  
ASUS BT GO! Utility  
Bluetooth  
Audio  
Realtek® ALC898 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC  
-
-
-
-
Supports 192khz / 24bit True BD Lossless Sound  
DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC II  
DTS Connect  
Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-Streaming, and  
Front Panel Jack-Retasking  
-
Optical S/PDIF Out port at back I/O  
USB  
ASMedia USB 3.0 controllers  
-
-
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support  
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at back panel with 1 x additional VIA  
SuperSpeed USB hub controller (blue)  
Intel® X79 Express Chipset  
-
12 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
(6 ports at mid-board; 6 ports at back panel)  
(continued on the next page)  
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P9X79 PRO specifications summary  
ASUS unique features  
ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 3  
with New DIGI+ Power Control:  
CPU Power  
-
-
Industry leading Digital 8+2 Phase Power Design  
CPU Power Utility  
DRAM Power  
-
-
Industry leading Digital 2+2 Phase Power Design  
DRAM Power Utility  
ASUS EPU  
-
EPU utility, EPU switch  
ASUS TPU  
-
Auto Tuning, TurboV, TPU switch  
ASUS BT GO!  
-
Folder Sync, BT Transfer, Shot & Send, BT to Net,  
Music Player, Personal Manager, BT Turbo Remote  
ASUS Exclusive Features:  
-
ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user  
interface  
-
-
-
-
-
-
ASUS SSD Caching  
USB 3.0 Boost  
Front Panel USB 3.0 Support  
MemOK!  
AI Suite II  
AI Charger  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:  
-
-
ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-pipe solution  
ASUS Fan Xpert+  
ASUS EZ DIY:  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
USB BIOS Flashback  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
ASUS MyLogo 2  
Percision Tweaker 2  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Multi-language BIOS  
ASUS Q-Design:  
-
-
-
-
-
-
ASUS Q-Code  
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)  
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P9X79 PRO 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)  
-
Back panel I/O ports  
1 x Bluetooth module  
1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port  
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port  
2 x Power eSATA 6G ports  
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)  
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
1 x USB BIOS Flashback button  
8-channel Audio I/O ports  
Internal I/O connectors  
1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB ports (19-pin)  
3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB ports  
4 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 S/PDIF Out header  
1 x Clear CMOS button  
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 EPU switch  
1 x TPU switch  
1 x Power button  
1 x Reset 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.  
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Chapter 1  
Chapter 1:  
Product introduction  
1.1  
Welcome!  
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P9X79 PRO 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 PRO  
User guide  
Support DVD  
motherboard  
1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge  
connector  
4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables  
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables  
1 x ASUS 3-way SLI™ bridge  
connector  
1 x ASUS Q-Shield  
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 PRO  
1-1  
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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 Intel® 2nd Generation 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. Intel® 2nd Generation 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 Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Extreme. 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 four 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 – 6 USB 3.0  
ports in total. Experience the latest plug & play connectivity at speeds up to 10 times faster  
than USB 2.0. The P9X79 PRO affords greater convenience to high speed connectivity.  
Extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s Support  
The Intel® X79 Express Chipset natively supports the next-generation Serial ATA (SATA)  
interface, delivering up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer. ASUS provides extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports  
with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the bandwidth of current bus  
systems.  
1-2  
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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.  
8+2 Phase Power Design  
To fully unleash the latest Intel® Sandy Bridge-E CPU´s potential, this motherboard has  
adopted a brand new digital 8-phase VRM power design. It delivers high power efficiency and  
supreme overclocking ability. Furthermore, high quality power components can effectively  
lower system temperature to ensure longer component lifespan. This motherboard also  
features an extra 2-phase power dedicated to integrated memory controller.  
ASUS SSD Caching  
SSD caching from ASUS is easier than ever. At 3X faster, this feature boosts system  
performance by using an installed SSD with no capacity limitations as a cache for frequently  
accessed data. Harness a combination of SSD-like performance and response and hard  
drive capacity with just one click, no rebooting needed and instant activation for complete  
ease of use.  
ASUS P9X79 PRO  
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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.  
1.3.3  
ASUS Exclusive Features  
BT GO! (Bluetooth)  
Onboard Bluetooth wireless design enables smart connectivity to Bluetooth devices with no  
additional adapter. ASUS BT GO! includes seven special functions so users can sync and  
transfer files between PC and mobile devices, and use them as a remote control to play music  
and other content. All are fully accessible through the exclusive user friendly ASUS interface.  
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.  
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.  
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.  
1-4  
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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.  
1.3.4  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution  
ASUS Fanless Design—Heat-pipe 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.  
DO NOT uninstall the heat-pipe by yourself. Doing so may bend the tubing and affect the  
heat dissipation performance.  
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.  
Power eSATA 6Gb/s ready  
Powered eSATA 6Gb/s combines data and power connectivity. Users enjoy 2X faster transfer  
rates, and can use external SATA 6Gb/s devices with no additional power adapters. ASUS  
provides two extra ports with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the  
bandwidth of current bus systems for extra speed and accessibility.  
ASUS P9X79 PRO  
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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.  
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!  
ASUS Q-Design  
ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-LED, Q-Slot, Q-Code 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 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.  
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1.3.6  
Other special features  
DTS UltraPC II  
DTS UltraPC II delivers exceptional 5.1 surround through the most popular PC audio  
setups - your existing stereo speakers or headphones. In addition to virtual surround, it  
upgrades original sound to new levels with Audio Restoration, recreating the dynamic  
range of audio files. Symmetry mode improves the balance of perceived loudness across  
different input sources and Enhance boosts audio quality through high and low frequency  
equalization. With these technologies, users experience better home theater audio with  
ease.  
DTS Connect  
To get the most out of your audio entertainment across all formats and quality levels, DTS  
Connect combines two enabling technologies. DTS Neo:PC™ upmixes stereo sources  
(CDs, MP3s, WMAs, internet radio) into as many as 7.1 channels of incredible surround  
sound. Consumers can then connect their PC to a home theater system.DTS Interactive  
is capable of performing multi-channel encoding of DTS bitstreams on personal  
computers, and sending encoded bitstreams out of a digital audio connection (such as  
S/PDIF or HDMI) designed to deliver audio to an external decoder.  
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.  
ASUS P9X79 PRO  
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1-8  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
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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 PRO  
2-1  
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2.2  
Motherboard overview  
2.2.1  
Motherboard layout  
Refer to 2.2.7 Internal connectors and 2.3.10 Rear panel connection for more  
information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.  
2-2  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
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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  
2-32  
2-4  
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin  
CPU_OPT_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)  
2-30  
5.  
6.  
7.  
MemOK! switch  
2-16  
2-28  
2-25  
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_56)  
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors  
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])  
8.  
9.  
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors  
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])  
2-26  
2-27  
Marvell® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors  
(7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [gray])  
10.  
11.  
12.  
13  
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
TPU switch  
2-33  
2-17  
2-17  
2-28  
Clear CMOS switch  
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112,  
USB1314)  
14.  
15.  
16.  
17.  
18.  
19.  
EPU switch  
2-18  
2-15  
2-15  
2-32  
2-29  
2-29  
Reset switch  
Power-on switch  
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)  
Q-Code LED (LED1, LED2)  
ASUS P9X79 PRO  
2-3  
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2.2.2  
Central Processing Unit (CPU)  
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA2011 socket designed for the Intel®  
Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition/ Core™ i7 Processors.  
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  
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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 PRO  
2-5  
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Memory configurations  
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into  
the DIMM sockets.  
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A, Channel B, Channel C and  
Channel D. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-  
channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then  
mapped for single-channel operation.  
Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200/2000/1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3  
2133/1866/1600 MHz frequency as default.  
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.  
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 (8 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.  
2-6  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
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P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 2400 MHz capability  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
SS/ Chip  
Chip  
NO.  
Timing  
Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)  
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM  
DS  
Brand  
G.SKILL  
F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP)  
4G ( 2x 2G ) DS  
DS  
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-28 1.65  
- 1.65  
Transcend TX2400KLU-4GK (381850)(XMP) 2GB  
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 2200 MHz capability  
Vendors  
GEIL  
Part No.  
Size  
SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing  
Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)  
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM  
GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 8GB ( 2x DS  
4GB )  
-
-
9-11-9-28 1.65  
KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KHA(XMP)  
4G ( 2x DS  
2G )  
-
-
-
-
1.5~1.7  
KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KJAA-FEIS(XMP) 4GB ( 2x DS  
2GB )  
Kingmax  
N/A  
-
P9X79 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR3 2133 MHz capability  
Vendors  
Part No.  
Size  
SS/ Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing  
DS  
Voltage  
DIMM socket support (Optional)  
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
Apacer  
8154A 1044(XMP)  
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
SS  
SS  
SS  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.55-1.75  
9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75  
9-9-9-24 1.55-1.75  
AX3U2133C2G9B(XMP)  
AX3U2133GC2G9B(XMP)  
78.BAGE4.AFD0C(XMP)  
8GB ( 2x DS  
4GB )  
9-9-9-24  
-
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2A2133C9(XMP)  
4GB ( 2x DS  
2GB )  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-10-9-24 1.65  
9-9-9-24 1.5  
9-11-9-28 1.65  
9-9-9-24 1.65  
9-9-9-28 1.65  
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(Ver7.1)(XMP) 4GB ( 2x DS  
2GB )  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
GEIL  
F3-17000CL9Q-16GBXLD(XMP)  
F3-17066CL9D-8GBPID(XMP)  
GE34GB2133C9DC(XMP)  
16GB (  
DS  
4x 4GB )  
8GB ( 2x DS  
4GB )  
4GB(2 x DS  
2GB)  
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP)  
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3W1K2/4GX(XMP)  
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/4GX(XMP)  
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/4GX(XMP)  
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1FK4/8GX(XMP)  
4GB ( 2x DS  
2GB )  
-
1.65  
1.65  
1.65  
4GB ( 2x DS  
2GB )  
9
9
4GB ( 2x DS  
2GB )  
4GB ( 2x DS  
2GB )  
9-9-9-24 1.65  
1.65  
9-11-9-27 1.66  
8GB ( 4x DS  
2GB )  
9
Patriot  
PVV34G2133C9K(XMP)  
4GB ( 2x DS  
2GB )  
ASUS P9X79 PRO  
2-7  
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