Instruction/ maintenance manual of the product P9X79-E Asus
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Motherboard P9X79-E WS.
ii E8097 First Edition March 2013 Copyright © 2013 ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmit.
iii Contents Notices ....................................................................................................................... vi Safety information ........................................................................................
iv Contents 2.5 T urning off the computer ......................................................................... 2-52 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.1 Knowing BIOS ...........................................................................................
v Contents 4.3.4 ASUS Update .............................................................................. 4-9 4.3.5 DIGI+ Power Control ................................................................. 4-10 4.3.6 EPU ................................
vi Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: This device may not cause harmful interference, and This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.
vii REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS website at http://csr .
viii Safety information Electrical safety T o 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.
ix Where to nd 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.
x DANGER/W ARNING: 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. NOTE : Tips and additional information to help you complete a task. IMPORT ANT : Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
xi P9X79-E WS specications summary CPU 2nd Generation Intel ® Core™ i7 Processor for the LGA 201 1 Socket Intel ® Xeon ® E5-1600 processor for the LGA 201 1 Socket Intel ® Xeon ® E5-2600 processor for the LGA 201 1 Socket Supports Intel ® T urbo Boost T echnology 2.
xii 1394 VIA VT6315N controller support 1x1394a port Audio Realtek ® ALC 1 150 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC - Supports 192kHz/ 24bit BD Lossless Sound - DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC II - .
xiii Back Panel I/O Ports 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue) 10 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (white port can be switched to USB BIOS Flashback) 1 x USB BIOS Flashback Switch 1 x PS/2 KB/MS port 2 x eSA T A 6Gb/s ports 2 x LAN (RJ45) ports (2 x Intel ® LAN) 1 x optical S/PDIF Out port 8-channel Audio I/O Internal I/O Connectors 1 x USB 3.
xiv.
Chapter 1: Product Introduction.
ASUS P9X79-E WS Chapter summary 1 This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports. This chapter contains the following sections: 1.1 Welcome! ........................................................................
ASUS P9X79-E WS 1-3 If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer . Motherboard ASUS P9X79-E WS I/O modules 1 x 2-port USB 2.0 + 1-port 1394 module Cables 4 x Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s cables 2 x Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s power cables 2 x Serial A T A 3.
1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Intel ® Socket 201 1 for 2nd Generation Intel ® Core ™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition This motherboard supports the .
ASUS P9X79-E WS 1-5 Power eSA T A 6Gb/s Ready 2X faster with fully charged power Powered eSA T A 6Gb/s combines data and power connectivity . Users enjoy 2X faster transfer rates, and can use external SA T A 6Gb/s devices with no additional power adapters.
1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3.3 ASUS features 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.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 1-7 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 technology , the performance of a USB device transmission speed is signicantly increased up to 130% (TBD), adding to an already impressive fast USB 3.
1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 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 efciency heat exchange.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 1-9 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 "ngers" - making it convenient and easy to install.
1-10 Chapter 1: Product Introduction.
Chapter 2: Hardware Information.
ASUS P9X79-E WS Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed ................................................................................... 2-3 2.2 Motherboard overview ............................................................................... 2-4 2.
2.1 Before you proceed T ake 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.
2.2 Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout Refer to 2.2.9 Internal Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.
2.2.2 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Switches/Slots Page 1. A TX Power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR, 8-pin EA TX12V , 6-pin EA TX12V_1) 2-35 2. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-7 3. LGA201 1 CPU Socket 2-6 4. CPU, CPU OPT , Chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN, 4-pin CHA_OPT , 4-pin CHA_F AN1/2/3/4) 2-32 5.
2.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA201 1 socket designed for the 2 nd Generation Intel ® Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition. • Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent.
Recommended memory congurations 2.2.4 System memory The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.
Memory congurations Y ou may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB unbuffered ECC or non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets depending on the installed CPU. • Y ou 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 conguration.
2.2.5 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. No. Slot Description 1 PCIEX16_1 PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 mode, blue) 2 PCIEX16_2 PCIe 3.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCIEx16_1 shared – – – – – – – PCIEx16_2 shared – – – – – – – PCIEx16_3 shared – – – – – – – PCIEx16_4 sh.
2.2.6 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare or open- case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. Power-on button The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that allows you to power up or wake up the system.
3. EPU switch T urning this switch to Enable will automatically detect the current PC loadings and intelligently moderate the power consumption. For ensuring system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off.
5. MemOK! switch Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DIAGLED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously . Press and hold the MemOK! switch until the DIAG_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.
6. ASUS Dr . POWER switch This switch allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Dr . Power feature. Install the bundled ASUS Dr . Power Utility then enable this switch to allow the system to display notication messages in your Windows screen if a problem is detected with your power supply unit (PSU).
2.2.7 Onboard LEDs 1. Diagnosis LED These diagnosis LEDs of CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD indicate key component status during POST (Power-on Self T est), providing an elegant embellishment to the motherboard design. The LED lights will ash sequentially during system bootup.
3. TPU LED The TPU LED lights up when the TPU switch is turned to Enable . 4. Q-Code LED The Q-Code LED design provides you the 2-digit display , allowing you to know the system status.
Q-Code table Code Description 00 Not used 01 Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard). 02 AP initialization before microcode loading 03 System Agent initialization before microcode loading 04 PCH in.
Code Description 31 Memory Installed 32 – 36 CPU post-memory initialization 37 – 3A Post-Memory System Agent initialization is started 3B – 3E Post-Memory PCH initialization is started 3F – 4E Post memory initialization codes 4F DXE IPL is started 50 – 53 Memory initialization error .
Q-Code table (continued) Code Description F5-F7 Reserved for future AMI progress codes F8 Recovery PPI is not available F9 Recovery capsule is not found F A Invalid recovery capsule FB-FF Reserved for.
Q-Code table (continued) Code Description 97 Console Output devices connect 98 Console input devices connect 99 Super IO Initialization 9A USB initialization is started 9B USB Reset 9C USB Detect 9D U.
Code Description AC Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below) AD Ready T o Boot event AE Legacy Boot event AF Exit Boot Services event B0 Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP Begin B1 Runtime S.
Code Description 0x01 System is entering S1 sleep state 0x02 System is entering S2 sleep state 0x03 System is entering S3 sleep state 0x04 System is entering S4 sleep state 0x05 System is entering S5 .
6. PGLED3 LED The ASUS Dr . Power LED near the ASUS Dr. Power switch lights up when the ASUS Dr . Power switch is turned to enable. 7. +12V_PWR LED The ASUS Dr . Power LED near EA TX12V connector lights up when the ASUS Dr . Power switch setting is turned to enable and there is no power detected going into the processor .
2.2.8 Jumper 1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real T ime Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. Y ou can reset the 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.
2. Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CHAF AN_SEL) These jumpers allow you to switch for fan pin selection. The CHAF AN_SEL jumper is for the front fans and rear fans control. Set to pins 1–2 when using 3-pin fans or pins 2–3 when using 4-pin fans.
2.2.9 Internal connectors 1. Intel ® X79 Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A6G_1/2 [gray]) These connectors connect to Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s signal cables. • These connectors are set to [IDE Mode] by default.
2. Intel ® X79 Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A3G_3–6 [blue]) These connectors connect to Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc drives via Serial A T A 3.
3. Marvell ® Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A6G_E1/E2/E3/E4 [gray]) These connectors connect to Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s signal cables. • For high performance of ASUS SSD Caching II, please connect one HDD and one SSD to Marvell ® SA T A6G_E12/E34 connectors.
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 specicaton that supports up to 5.0 Gbps connection speed. If the USB 3.0 front panel cable is available from your system chassis, with this USB 3.
Y ou can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) rst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports. Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors.
6. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_1) This connector is for an IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector .
8. CPU, CPU OPT , Chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN; 4-pin CPU_OPT ; 4-pin CHA_F AN1/2/3/4) 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 . • The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power.
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 .
10. 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. The COM module is purchased separately .
12. A TX power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR; 8-pin EA TX12V , 6-pin EA TX12V_1) These connectors are for A TX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down rmly until the connectors completely t.
• 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.
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 201 1 CPU Intel LGA 201 .
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.
9 7 8 5 6 T riangle mark B A B A ASUS P9X79-E WS 2-39.
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 .
1 2 3 T o remove a DIMM 2.3.4 DIMM installation B A ASUS P9X79-E WS 2-41.
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.
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. 3 ASUS P9X79-E WS 2-43.
2.3.6 A TX Power connection 1 2 OR 2-44 Chapter 2: Hardware information.
2.3.7 SA T A device connection 2 OR 1 ASUS P9X79-E WS 2-45.
2.3.8 Front I/O Connector IDE_LED POWER SW RESET SW IDE_LED- IDE_LED+ PWR Reset Ground Ground 1 2 USB AAFP T o install ASUS Q-Connector T o install USB Connector T o install front panel audio connector The actual location may vary with motherboards.
2.3.9 Rear panel connection Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 mouse and keyboard port 7. USB BIOS Flashback button 2. LAN (RJ-45) port 1* 8. Optical S/PDIF Out port 3. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 9. USB 2.0 ports 7 and 8 4. LAN (RJ-45) port 2** 10. External SA T A 6.
**Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Spe.
Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers ASUS P9X79-E WS 2-49.
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers 2-50 Chapter 2: Hardware information.
1. Download the BIOS Flashback program le from the ASUS service website (www.asus. com). Save the program le to a USB portable disk. 2. On the rear I/O port, plug the USB disk to USB port 1 with the WHITE interior . (See red box in the image below) 3.
2.4 Starting up for the rst time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover . 2. Be sure that all switches are of f. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector .
Chapter 3: BIOS setup.
ASUS P9X79-E WS Chapter summary 3 This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided. This chapter contains the following sections: 3.1 Knowing BIOS .......
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-3 The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is an Extensible Firmware Interface that complies with UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls to enable more exible and convenient mouse input.
3-4 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 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 .
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-5 3.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to congure the BIOS settings. The gure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed congurations.
3-6 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Ai T weaker, Advanced, Monitor , Boot, T ool, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-7 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.
3-8 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 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 elds in the BIOS setup program.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-9 3.4 Ai Tweaker menu The Ai T weaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related items. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai T weaker menu items.
3-10 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Scroll down to display the following items: Ai Overclock T uner [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency . Select any of these preset overclocking conguration options: [Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-1 1 T urbo Ratio [Auto] Allows you to manually adjust the T urbo CPU ratio. [Auto] All Turbo ratio are set by Intel CPU default settings [By ALL Cores (Can Adjust in OS)] All numbers.
3-12 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Primary Timings DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 3 to 15 with 1 interval. DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-13 tRWDD [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 15 with 1 interval. tWRDR [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.
3-14 Chapter 3: BIOS setup DRAM IOL (CHA D1 R1) [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] – [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] – [Delay 14 Clock] DRAM RTL (CHB D0 R0) [Auto].
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-15 DRAM IOL (CHC D0 R0) [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] – [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] – [Delay 14 Clock] DRAM RTL (CHC D0 R1) [Auto] Con.
3-16 Chapter 3: BIOS setup DRAM IOL (CHD D0 R1) [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] – [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] – [Delay 14 Clock] DRAM RTL (CHD D1 R0) [Auto].
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-17 T ransmitter Slew [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [Normal] [More] MCH Recheck [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] MRC Fast W arm Boot [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] DIGI+ Power Control CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] CPU Load-line is dened by Intel spec and affects CPU voltage.
3-18 Chapter 3: BIOS setup VCCSA Current Capability [100%] Allows you to set the VCCSA current capability . A higher value brings wider total DRAM controller power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously .
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-19 Manual Adjustment [Medium] This item appears when you set the CPU Power Phase Control item to [Manual Adjustment]. Select Ultra Fast for a faster response.
3-20 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 limited to CPU-based or factory settings.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-21 CPU VCORE V oltage [Offset Mode] This adjusts the power supply for the processor cores and cache to help core frequency overclocking. [Manual Mode] Allows you to set a xed CPU VCORE voltage. [Offset Mode] Allows you to set the Offset voltage.
3-22 Chapter 3: BIOS setup DRAM V oltage (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 V oltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-23 DRAM CTRL REF V oltage on CHB [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on Channel B. The values range from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a 0.005x interval. DRAM DA T A REF V oltage on CHB [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM DA T A REF V oltage on Channel B.
3-24 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect eld values can cause the system to malfunction. 3.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-25 3.5.1 CPU Conguration 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. Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled] This function includes TM1, TM2, and EMTTM.
3-26 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Active Processor Cores [All] Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package. Conguration options: [All] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled] [Enabled] Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-27 CPU C3 Report [Auto] Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS. CPU C6 Report [Auto] Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS. CPU C7 Report [Auto] Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C7 report to OS.
3-28 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.5.3 PCH Conguration High Precision Timer [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event T imer . Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.5.4 SA T A Conguration Whil e ente ring Se tup, t he BIOS autom atical ly d etects the pr esence of SA T A dev ices.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-29 SA T A Mode [AHCI Mode] Allows you to set the SA T A conguration. [Disabled] Disables the SA T A function. [IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial A T A hard disk drives as Parallel A T A physical storage devices.
3-30 Chapter 3: BIOS setup SA T A6G_5 (Blue) Hot Plug [Disabled] This item appears only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID mode]. It allows users to enable/disable SA T A Hot Plug Support. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-31 The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None . Legacy USB Support [Enabled] [Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program. [Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).
3-32 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguraton Azalia HD Audio [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the controller . [Enabled] Enables the High Denition Audio Controller . The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller item to [Enabled].
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-33 Intel LAN1 Controller [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the controller . [Enabled] Enables the Intel LAN controller . Intel LAN1 OPROM [Disabled] This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable or disable the LAN1 PXE OptionRom of the Intel LAN controller .
3-34 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off] [Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss. [Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss. [Last State] The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-35 3.6 Monitor menu The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings. CPU T emperature / MB T emperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard temperatures.
3-36 Chapter 3: BIOS setup CPU Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A] CPU OPT 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).
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-37 Chassis 1/2/3/4 Q-Fan Control [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature. [Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
3-38 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Boot Conguration Fast Boot [Enabled] [Enabled] Select to accelerate the boot speed. [Disabled] Select to go back to normal boot. The following four items appear when you set Fast Boot to [Enabled].
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-39 PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse Support [Auto] Select any of these settings when PS/2 keyboard and mouse are installed. These settings only apply when Fast Boot is enabled. [Auto] For a faster POST time, PS/2 devices will only be available when the system boots up or rebooted when the PS/2 devices have not been reconnected or changed.
3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Setup Mode [EZ Mode] [A dv an ce d Mo de ] 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.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-41 Key Management This item appears only when you set Secure Boot Mode to [Custom] . It allows you to manage the Secure Boot keys. Install Default Secure Boot keys Allows you to immediately load the default Security Boot keys, Platform key (PK), Key-exchange Key (KEK), Signature database (db), and Revoked Signatures (dbx).
3-42 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility to update BIOS. When you press <Enter>, a conrmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Y es] or [No], then press <Enter> to conrm your choice.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-43 3.8.3 ASUS O.C. Prole This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. The Setup Prole Status items will show Not Installed if no prole is created.
3-44 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 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. Y ou 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.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-45 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.
3-46 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Updating the BIOS through the Internet T o 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 trafc.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-47 • 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 conguration.
3-48 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 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 oppy disk or an OS-based utility . Before you start using this utility , download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www .
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-49 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 le when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Y ou can restore a corrupted BIOS le using the motherboard support DVD or a USB ash drive that contains the BIOS le.
3-50 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Booting the system in DOS environment 1. Insert the USB ash drive with the latest BIOS le 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 .
ASUS P9X79-E WS 3-51 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.
3-52 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 4. Select Y es 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.
Chapter 4: Software support.
ASUS P9X79-E WS Chapter summary 4 This chapter describes the contents of the su pport DVD that c omes w ith th e mot herboard package and the software. This chapter contains the following sections: 4.1 Installing an operating system ..................
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-3 If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the le ASSETUP .EXE from the BIN folder . Double-click the ASSETUP .EXE to run the DVD. 4.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows ® 8 / 64-bit 8 / 7 / 64-bit 7 operating systems (OS).
4-4 Chapter 4: Software support 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 les are in Portable Document Format (PDF).
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-5 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 le that came with the software application for more information.
4-6 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.2 ASUS SSD Caching II ASUS SSD Caching II uses installed SSDs for multi-caching of frequently accessed data or applications. It combines multiple SSDs’ performance and hard-drive capacity to boost the system’s overall performance.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-7 3. T o cancel caching, click . • During initialization, you can proceed with doing any system operations. Y ou can check the caching status later or wait for a pop-up message notifying that initialization is completed. • For regular usage, the SA T A6G_E12/E34 connectors are recommended for data drives.
4-8 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.3 Ai Charger+ This utility allows you to fast-charge your portable BC 1.1* mobile devices on your computer’s USB port three times faster than the standard USB devices**. • * Check your manufacturer if your USB device is a Battery Charging Specication 1.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-9 4.3.4 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.
4-10 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.5 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 efciency , generating less heat to longer component lifespan and minimize power loss.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-1 1 • The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specication. • Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
4-12 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.6 EPU EPU is an energy-efcient tool that satises 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.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-13 Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conguration. 4.
4-14 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.8 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-T ests (POST).
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-15 2. Click on Auto T une to adjust image size compatibility or adjust the resolution bar . 3. Y ou can click on Booting Preview to preview the boot image. Then click Next. 4. Click on Flash to start updating the image to the boot logo.
4-16 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.9 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.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-17 4.3.10 T urboV EVO ASUS T urboV EVO introduces T urboV that allows you to manually adjust the CPU frequency and related voltages as well as Auto T uning function that offers automatic and easy over clocki ng and system level up.
4-18 Chapter 4: Software support Using Advanced Mode Click on the Advanced Mode tab to adjust the advanced voltage settings. Advanced mode Applies all changes immediately Undoes all changes without ap.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-19 Auto T uning ASUS T urboV EVO includes two auto tuning modes, providing the most exible auto-tuning options. • The overclocking result varies with the CPU model and the system conguration. • T o prevent overheating from damaging the motherboard, a better thermal environment is strongly recommended.
4-20 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 T uning 1. Click the Auto T uning tab and then click Extreme .
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-21 4.3.1 1 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.
4-22 Chapter 4: Software support A. Realtek HD Audio Manager with DTS UltraPC II for Windows ® 7™ / Vista™ 4.3.12 Audio congurations The Realtek ® audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your computer .
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-23 4.3.13 ASUS Dr . Power Utility ASUS Dr . Power is a monitoring utility that provides notications when the power supply is unable to provide sufcient power to the system. Y ou can choose to allow continuous notications or stop messages from appearing until the next time you reboot your computer .
4-24 Chapter 4: Software support When ASUS Dr . Power detects that your system is running low on power , an event notication pops up to indicate that your power supply requires attention. The message will be displayed for 15 seconds or until you click the Close button.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-25 4.4 RAID congurations The motherboard supports the following SA T A RAID solutions: • Intel ® Rapid Storage T echnology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support. • Mavell ® RAID utility with RAID 0 and RAID 1 support.
4-26 Chapter 4: Software support 4.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks The motherboard supports Serial A T A hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array . T o install the SA T A hard disks for a RAID conguration: 1.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-27 Creating a RAID set T o create a RAID set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume and press <Enter>. The following screen appears: 2.
4-28 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>.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-29 Deleting a RAID set T ake caution when deleting a RAID set. Y ou will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID set. T o delete a RAID set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 2. Delete RAID V olume and press <Enter>.
4-30 Chapter 4: Software support 4.4.5 Marvell RAID utility The onboard Marvell SA T A 6.0 Gb/s controller allows you to create a RAID 0 or RAID 1 array using two SA T A hard disk drives. Refer to Chapter 2 of your motherboard user manual for the exact location of the Marvell SA T A 6.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-31 4. Use the up or down arrow key to move the selection bar and press <Enter> to congure further RAID settings. RAID Level: Select a RAID Level. Conguration options: [RAID 0] [RAID 10] [RAID1] Stripe Size: Species the size of single data block on the virtual disk.
4-32 Chapter 4: Software support 6. Press <F10>. The following warning message appears: Press <Y> to save the RAID setting and exit the Marvell RAID utility . Do you want to exit from Marvell BIOS Setup? Y es N o Exit Delete an existing RAID Array 1.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 4-33 Do you want to delete this virtual disk ? Y es N o Delete Virtual Disk 2. The following warning message appears: Press <Y> to delete the selected RAID array .
4-34 Chapter 4: Software support.
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support.
ASUS P9X79-E WS Chapter summary 5 This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports. This chapter contains the following sections: 5.1 A TI ® CrossFireX™ technology ................................................
ASUS P9X79-E WS 5-3 5.1 ATI ® CrossFireX™ technology The motherboard supports the A TI ® CrossFireX™ technology that allows you to install multi- graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section.
5-4 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support 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.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 5-5 5. Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two graphics cards separately . 6. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card. 5.1.4 Installing three CrossFireX™ graphics cards 1. Prepare three CrossFireX-ready graphics cards.
5-6 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support 5.1.5 Installing four CrossFireX™ graphics cards 1. Prepare four CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the four graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots. Refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots recommended for multi-graphics card installation.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 5-7 5.1.6 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 .
5-8 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support 1 Enabling Dual CrossFireX technology 1. In the Catalyst Control Center window, click Performance > AMD CrossFireX TM . 2. Select Enable CrossFireX TM . 3. Select a GPU combination from the drop-down list.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 5-9 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.
5-10 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support 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.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 5-1 1 5.2.3 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards 3-Way SLI bridge 1. Prepare three SLI-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the three graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots.
5-12 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support 5.2.4 Installing four SLI-ready graphics cards 1. Prepare four SLI-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the four graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 5-13 B1. If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step (A), select Screen Resolution . B2. From the Screen Resolution window, click Advanced settings .
5-14 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support B3. The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears. Enabling SLI settings From the NVIDIA Control Panel window , select Congure SLI , Surround , PhysX . In the Quad-SLI enabled , click Maximize 3D Performance SLI to set the display for viewing SLI rendered content.
ASUS P9X79-E WS 5-15 5.3 NVIDIA ® CUDA™ technology The motherboard supports the NVIDIA ® CUDA™ technology and up to 4 NVIDIA ® T esla™ computing processor cards(based on different type tesla cards), providing the optimum multi purpose computing performance.
5-16 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support 4. Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. 5. T o verify graphics card driver installation, right-click My Computer and select Properties from the menu.
ASUS contact information ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. Address 15 Li-T e Road, Peitou, T aipei, T aiwan 1 1259 T elephone +886-2-2894-3447 Fax +886-2-2890-7798 E-mail info@asus.com.tw Web site www .asus.com.tw T echnical Support T elephone +86-21-3842991 1 Online support support.
EC Declaration of Conformity We, the undersigned, Manufacturer: ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address, City: 4F, No. 150, LI-TE Rd., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112, TAIWAN Country: TAIWAN Authorized representative in Europe: ASUS COMPUTER GmbH Address, City: HARKORT STR.
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