ASRock Z77 Extreme9 Owner's Manual

Z77 Extreme9

User Manual

Version 1.1

Published July 2012

No part of this manual may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, or translated in

any language, in any form or by any means, except duplication of documentation by

the purchaser for backup purpose, without written consent of ASRock Inc.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be regis-

tered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for

identication or explanation and to the owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

Disclaimer:

Specications and information contained in this manual are furnished for informa-

tional use only and subject to change without notice, and should not be constructed

as a commitment by ASRock. ASRock assumes no responsibility for any errors or

omissions that may appear in this manual.

With respect to the contents of this manual, ASRock does not provide warranty of

any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warran-

ties or conditions of merchantability or tness for a particular purpose.

In no event shall ASRock, its directors, ofcers, employees, or agents be liable for

any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages (including damages for

loss of prots, loss of business, loss of data, interruption of business and the like),

even if ASRock has been advised of the possibility of such damages arising from

any defect or error in the manual or product.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the fol-

lowing two conditions:

(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and

(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that

may cause undesired operation.

CALIFORNIA, USA ONLY

The Lithium battery adopted on this motherboard contains Perchlorate, a toxic

substance controlled in Perchlorate Best Management Practices (BMP) regulations

passed by the California Legislature. When you discard the Lithium battery in Cali-

fornia, USA, please follow the related regulations in advance.

“Perchlorate Material-special handling may apply, see

www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate”

ASRock Website: http://www.asrock.com

Contents

1 Introduction ......................................................... 7

1.1 Package Contents ......................................................... 7

1.2 Specications ................................................................. 8

1.3 Motherboard Layout ....................................................... 14

1.4 I/O Panel ...................................................................... 15

1.5 WiFi + BT Module and ASRock Wi-SB Box ................. 17

2 Installation ........................................................... 19

2.1 Screw Holes ................................................................... 19

2.2 Pre-installation Precautions ......................................... 19

2.3 CPU Installation ............................................................. 20

2.4 Installation of Heatsink and CPU fan ............................. 22

2.5 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM) ........................ 23

2.6 Expansion Slots

2.7 SLITM, 3-Way SLITM, 4-Way SLITM and Quad SLI

Operation Guide ............................................................ 27

2.8 CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM, 4-Way

CrossFireX

2.9 WiFi + BT Module and ASRock Wi-SB Box Installation

Guide ............................................................................. 40

2.10 Surround Display Feature .............................................. 42

2.11 ASRock Smart Remote Installation Guide ..................... 45

2.12 Jumpers Setup .......................................................... 47

2.13 Onboard Headers and Connectors ............................ 48

2.14 Smart Switches .......................................................... 54

2.15 Dr. Debug ................................................................... 55

2.16 Serial ATA (SATA) / Serial ATA2 (SATA2) Hard Disks

Installation ................................................................. 59

2.17 Serial ATA3 (SATA3) Hard Disks Installation ............. 59

2.18 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA / SATA2

HDDs ............................................................................. 60

2.19 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA3 HDDs ..... 60

2.20 SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD Hot Plug Feature and

Operation Guide ........................................................ 61

2.21 Driver Installation Guide ............................................ 63

2.22 Installing Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / Vista

64-bit With RAID Functions ....................................... 63

2.23 Installing Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / Vista

/ XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID Functions ................... 64

(PCI Express Slots)

and Quad CrossFireXTM Operation Guide 34

................................. 25

/ VistaTM

/ VistaTM 64-bit

2.23.1 Installing Windows® XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID

Functions............................................................ 64

2.23.2 Installing Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM /

VistaTM 64-bit Without RAID Functions ............... 64

2.24 Teaming Function Operation Guide ........................... 66

3 UEFI SETUP UTILITY ................................................. 70

3.1 Introduction .................................................................... 70

3.1.1 UEFI Menu Bar .................................................... 70

3.1.2 Navigation Keys ................................................... 71

3.2 Main Screen ................................................................... 72

3.3 OC Tweaker Screen ...................................................... 73

3.4 Advanced Screen ........................................................... 78

3.4.1 CPU Conguration ............................................... 79

3.4.2 North Bridge Conguration................................... 81

3.4.3 South Bridge Conguration .................................. 82

3.4.4 Storage Conguration .......................................... 84

3.4.5 Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology ........................... 85

3.4.6 Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology ..................... 86

3.4.7 Super IO Conguration ........................................ 87

3.4.8 ACPI Conguration............................................... 88

3.4.9 USB Conguration ............................................... 89

3.5 Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen ................... 90

3.6 Boot Screen ................................................................... 91

3.7 Security Screen ............................................................. 92

3.8 Exit Screen .................................................................... 93

4 Software Support ................................................. 94

4.1 Install Operating System ................................................ 94

4.2 Support CD Information ................................................. 94

4.2.1 Running Support CD ............................................ 94

4.2.2 Drivers Menu ........................................................ 94

4.2.3 Utilities Menu........................................................ 94

4.2.4 Contact Information .............................................. 94

Chapter 1: Introduction

Thank you for purchasing ASRock Z 77 Extreme9 motherboard, a reliable moth-

erboard produced under ASRock’s consistently stringent quality control. It delivers

excellent performance with robust design conforming to ASRock’s commitment to

quality and endurance.

In this manual, chapter 1 and 2 contains introduction of the motherboard and step-

by-step guide to the hardware installation. Chapter 3 and 4 contains the congura-

tion guide to BIOS setup and information of the Support CD.

Because the motherboard specications and the BIOS software might be

updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without no-

tice. In case any modications of this manual occur, the updated version

will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You may nd

the latest VGA cards and CPU support lists on ASRock website as well.

ASRock website http://www.asrock.com

If you require technical support related to this motherboard, please visit

our website for specic information about the model you are using.

www.asrock.com/support/index.asp

1.1 Package Contents

ASRock Z77 Extreme9 Motherboard

(ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)

ASRock Z77 Extreme9 Quick Installation Guide

ASRock Z77 Extreme9 Support CD

6 x Serial ATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional)

2 x Serial ATA (SATA) HDD Power Cables (Optional)

1 x I/O Panel Shield

2 x ASRock SLI_Bridge Cards

1 x ASRock SLI_Bridge_3S Card

1 x ASRock 3-Way SLI Bridge Card

1 x ASRock Wi-SB Box

12 x Screws

ASRock Reminds You...

To get better performance in Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / Vista

bit, it is recommended to set the BIOS option in Storage Conguration to

AHCI mode. For the BIOS setup, please refer to the “User Manual” in our

support CD for details.

/ VistaTM 64-

1.2 Specifications

Platform - ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 9.6-in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm

- Premium Gold Capacitor design (100% Japan-made

high-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors)

CPU - Supports 3rd and 2nd Generation Intel® CoreTM i7 / i5 / i3 in

LGA1155 Package

- Digi Power Design

- 8 + 4 Power Phase Design

- Supports Intel® Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology

- Supports Intel® K-Series unlocked CPU

- Supports Hyper-Threading Technology (see CAUTION 1)

Chipset - Intel® Z77

- Supports Intel® Rapid Start Technology and Smart Connect

Technology

Memory - Dual Channel DDR3 Memory Technology (see CAUTION 2)

- 4 x DDR3 DIMM slots

- Supports DDR3 3000+(OC)/2400(OC)/2133(OC)/1866(OC)/

1600/1333/1066 non-ECC, un-buffered memory

- Max. capacity of system memory: 32GB (see CAUTION 3)

- Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)1.3/1.2

Expansion Slot - 5 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots (PCIE2: x16 mode; PCIE1/

PCIE3/PCIE5/PCIE7: x16/0/16/0 or x8/8/8/8 mode)

(see CAUTION 4)

* PCIE 3.0 is only supported with Intel® Ivy Bridge CPU. With

Intel® Sandy Bridge CPU, it only supports PCIE 2.0.

- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot (PCIE4: x4 mode)

- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x 1 slot

- 1 x mini-PCI Express slot: For WiFi + BT module

- Supports AMD Quad CrossFireXTM, 4-Way CrossFireXTM,

3-Way CrossFireXTM and CrossFireXTM

- Supports NVIDIA® Quad SLITM, 4-Way SLITM, 3-Way SLITM

and SLI

Graphics * Intel® HD Graphics Built-in Visuals and the VGA outputs can

be supported only with processors which are GPU

integrated.

- Supports Intel® HD Graphics Built-in Visuals: Intel® Quick

Sync Video 2.0, Intel® InTruTM 3D, Intel® Clear Video HD

Technology, Intel® InsiderTM, Intel® HD Graphics 2500/4000

- Pixel Shader 5.0, DirectX 11 with Intel® Ivy Bridge CPU.

Pixel Shader 4.1, DirectX 10.1 with Intel® Sandy Bridge

CPU.

- Max. shared memory 1760MB (see CAUTION 5)

- Supports HDMI 1.4a Technology with max. resolution up to

1920x1200 @ 60Hz

- Supports Auto Lip Sync, Deep Color (12bpc), xvYCC and

HBR (High Bit Rate Audio) with HDMI (Compliant HDMI

monitor is required) (see CAUTION 6)

- Supports HDCP function with HDMI port

- Supports Full HD 1080p Blu-ray (BD) / HD-DVD playback

with HDMI port

Audio - 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection

(Realtek ALC898 Audio Codec)

- Premium Blu-ray audio support

- Supports THX TruStudio

LAN - PCIE x1 Gigabit LAN 10/100/1000 Mb/s

- Broadcom BCM57781

- Supports Wake-On-LAN

- Supports Energy Efcient Ethernet 802.3az

- Supports Dual LAN with Teaming function

- Supports PXE

Wireless LAN WiFi + BT module

- Supports IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n

- Supports Dual-Band (2.4/5 GHz)

- Supports High speed wireless connection up to 300Mbps

- 2 antennas to support 2 (Transmit) x 2 (Receive) MIMO

technology

- Supports Bluetooth 4.0 Class II

Rear Panel I/O I/O Panel

- 1 x PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port

- 1 x HDMI Port

- 1 x Optical SPDIF Out Port

- 2 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports

- 1 x eSATA3 Connector

- 8 x Ready-to-Use USB 3.0 Ports

- 2 x RJ-45 LAN Ports with LED (ACT/LINK LED and SPEED

LED)

- 1 x IEEE 1394 Port

- 1 x Clear CMOS Switch with LED

- HD Audio Jack: Rear Speaker/Central/Bass/Line in/Front

Speaker/Microphone (see CAUTION 7)

SATA3 - 2 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors by Intel® Z77, support RAID

(RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, Intel Rapid Storage and

Intel Smart Response Technology), NCQ, AHCI and Hot

Plug functions

- 4 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors by ASMedia ASM1061,

support NCQ, AHCI and “Hot Plug” functions (SATA3_A4

connector is shared with eSATA3 port)

USB3.0 - 4 x Rear USB 3.0 ports by Intel® Z77, support USB 1.0/2.0/3.0

up to 5Gb/s

- 4 x Rear USB 3.0 ports by Etron EJ188, support

USB 1.0/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s

- 2 x Front USB 3.0 headers by Etron EJ188 (support 4

USB 3.0 ports), support USB 1.0/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s

Connector - 4 x SATA2 3.0 Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0,

RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, Intel Rapid Storage and Intel

Smart Response Technology), NCQ, AHCI and Hot Plug

functions

- 1 x IR header

- 1 x CIR header

- 1 x COM port header

- 1 x HDMI_SPDIF header

- 1 x IEEE 1394 header

- 1 x Power LED header

- CPU/Chassis/Power FAN connector

- 24 pin ATX power connector

- 8 pin 12V power connector

- SLI/XFire power connector

- Front panel audio connector

- 3 x USB 2.0 headers (support 6 USB 2.0 ports)

- 2 x USB 3.0 headers (support 4 USB 3.0 ports)

- 1 x Dr. Debug with LED

Smart Switch - 1 x Clear CMOS Switch with LED

- 1 x Power Switch with LED

- 1 x Reset Switch with LED

BIOS Feature - 64Mb AMI UEFI Legal BIOS with GUI support

- Supports “Plug and Play”

- ACPI 1.1 Compliance Wake Up Events

- Supports jumperfree

- SMBIOS 2.3.1 Support

- 6 x SATA3 6.0Gb/s connectors

- CPU Core, IGPU, DRAM, 1.8V PLL, VTT, VCCSA Voltage

Multi-adjustment

Support CD - Drivers, Utilities, AntiVirus Software (Trial Version),

CyberLink MediaEspresso 6.5 Trial, ASRock MAGIX

Multimedia Suite - OEM

Unique Feature - ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU) (see CAUTION 8)

- ASRock Instant Boot

- ASRock Instant Flash (see CAUTION 9)

- ASRock APP Charger (see CAUTION 10)

- ASRock SmartView (see CAUTION 11)

- ASRock XFast USB (see CAUTION 12)

- ASRock XFast LAN (see CAUTION 13)

- ASRock XFast RAM (see CAUTION 14)

- ASRock Crashless BIOS (see CAUTION 15)

- ASRock OMG (Online Management Guard)

(see CAUTION 16)

- ASRock Internet Flash (see CAUTION 17)

- ASRock Dehumidier Function (see CAUTION 18)

- Lucid Virtu Universal MVP (see CAUTION 19)

* Lucid Virtu Universal MVP can be supported only with

processors which are GPU integrated.

- Hybrid Booster:

- CPU Frequency Stepless Control (see CAUTION 20)

- ASRock U-COP (see CAUTION 21)

- Boot Failure Guard (B.F.G.)

- Good Night LED

Hardware - CPU Temperature Sensing

Monitor - Chassis Temperature Sensing

- CPU/Chassis/Power Fan Tachometer

- CPU/Chassis Quiet Fan (Allows Chassis Fan Speed Auto-

Adjust by CPU Temperature)

- CPU/Chassis Fan Multi-Speed Control

- Voltage Monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3.3V, CPU Vcore

OS - Microsoft® Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit /

XP / XP 64-bit compliant (see CAUTION 22)

Certications - FCC, CE, WHQL

- ErP/EuP Ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required)

(see CAUTION 23)

* For detailed product information, please visit our website: http://www.asrock.com

WARNING

Please realize that there is a certain risk involved with overclocking, including

adjusting the setting in the BIOS, applying Untied Overclocking Technology, or using

third-party overclocking tools. Overclocking may affect your system’s stability, or

even cause damage to the components and devices of your system. It should be

done at your own risk and expense. We are not responsible for possible damage

caused by overclocking.

CAUTION!

1. About the settings of “Hyper Threading Technology”, please check page

79.

2. This motherboard supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. Before

you implement Dual Channel Memory Technology, make sure to read the

installation guide of memory modules on page 23 for proper installation.

3. Due to the operating system limitation, the actual memory size may be

less than 4GB for the reservation for system usage under Windows® 7 /

VistaTM / XP. For Windows® OS with 64-bit CPU, there is no such limita-

tion. You can use ASRock XFast RAM to utilize the memory that Win-

dows® cannot use.

4. Only PCIE1, PCIE2, PCIE3, PCIE5, PCIE6 and PCIE7 slots support Gen

3 speed. To run the PCI Express in Gen 3 speed, please install an Ivy

Bridge CPU. If you install a Sandy Bridge CPU, the PCI Express will run

only at PCI Express Gen 2 speed. Please refer to page 25 for details.

5. The maximum shared memory size is dened by the chipset vendor and

is subject to change. Please check Intel® website for the latest informa-

tion.

6. xvYCC and Deep Color are only supported under Windows® 7 64-bit /

7. Deep Color mode will be enabled only if the display supports 12bpc

in EDID. HBR is supported under Windows® 7 64-bit / 7 / VistaTM 64-bit /

VistaTM.

7. For microphone input, this motherboard supports both stereo and mono

modes. For audio output, this motherboard supports 2-channel, 4-chan-

nel, 6-channel, and 8-channel modes. Please check the table on page 15

for proper connection.

8. ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU) is an all-in-one tool to ne-tune dif-

ferent system functions in a user-friendly interface, which includes Hard-

ware Monitor, Fan Control, Overclocking, OC DNA and IES. In Hardware

Monitor, it shows the major readings of your system. In Fan Control, it

shows the fan speed and temperature for you to adjust. In Overclocking,

you are allowed to overclock CPU frequency for optimal system per-

formance. In OC DNA, you can save your OC settings as a prole and

share it with your friends. Your friends then can load the OC prole to

their own system to get the same OC settings. In IES (Intelligent Energy

Saver), the voltage regulator can reduce the number of output phases to

improve efciency when the CPU cores are idle without sacricing

computing performance. Please visit our website for the operation proce-

dures of ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU).

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com

9. ASRock Instant Flash is a BIOS ash utility embedded in Flash ROM.

This convenient BIOS update tool allows you to update system BIOS

without entering operating systems rst like MS-DOS or Windows®. With

this utility, you can press the <F6> key during the POST or the <F2>

key to enter into the BIOS setup menu to access ASRock Instant Flash.

Just launch this tool and save the new BIOS le to your USB ash drive,

oppy disk or hard drive, then you can update your BIOS only in a few

clicks without preparing an additional oppy diskette or other complicated

ash utility. Please be noted that the USB ash drive or hard drive must

use FAT32/16/12 le system.

10. If you desire a faster, less restricted way of charging your Apple devices,

such as iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch, ASRock has prepared a wonderful so-

lution for you - ASRock APP Charger. Simply install the APP Charger

driver, it makes your iPhone charge much quickly from your computer

and up to 40% faster than before. ASRock APP Charger allows you to

quickly charge many Apple devices simultaneously and even supports

continuous charging when your PC enters into Standby mode (S1), Sus-

pend to RAM (S3), hibernation mode (S4) or power off (S5). With APP

Charger driver installed, you can easily enjoy the marvelous charging

experience.

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com/Feature/AppCharger/index.asp

11. ASRock SmartView, a new function for internet browsers, is the smart

start page for IE that combines your most visited web sites, your history,

your Facebook friends and your real-time newsfeed into an enhanced

view for a more personal Internet experience. ASRock motherboards are

exclusively equipped with the ASRock SmartView utility that helps you

keep in touch with friends on-the-go. To use ASRock SmartView feature,

please make sure your OS version is Windows® 7 / 7 64 bit / VistaTM /

VistaTM 64 bit, and your browser version is IE8.

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com/Feature/SmartView/index.asp

12. ASRock XFast USB can boost USB storage device performance. The

performance may depend on the properties of the device.

13. ASRock XFast LAN provides a faster internet access, which includes

the benets listed below. LAN Application Prioritization: You can cong-

ure your application’s priority ideally and/or add new programs. Lower

Latency in Game: After setting online game’s priority higher, it can lower

the latency in games. Trafc Shaping: You can watch Youtube HD videos

and download simultaneously. Real-Time Analysis of Your Data: With

the status window, you can easily recognize which data streams you are

transferring currently.

14. ASRock XFast RAM is a new function that is included into ASRock Ex-

treme Tuning Utility (AXTU). It fully utilizes the memory space that cannot

be used under Windows® OS 32-bit CPU. ASRock XFast RAM shortens

the loading time of previously visited websites, making web surng faster

than ever. And it also boosts the speed of Adobe Photoshop 5 times

faster. Another advantage of ASRock XFast RAM is that it reduces the

frequency of accessing your SSDs or HDDs in order to extend their lifes-

pan.

15. ASRock Crashless BIOS allows users to update their BIOS without fear

of failing. If power loss occurs during the BIOS update process, ASRock

Crashless BIOS will automatically nish the BIOS update procedure after

regaining power. Please note that BIOS les need to be placed in the root

directory of your USB disk. Only USB2.0 ports support this feature.

16. Administrators are able to establish an internet curfew or restrict internet

access at specied times via OMG. You may schedule the starting and

ending hours of internet access granted to other users. In order to pre-

vent users from bypassing OMG, guest accounts without permission to

modify the system time are required.

17. ASRock Internet Flash searches for available UEFI firmware updates

from our servers. In other words, the system can auto-detect the latest

UEFI from our servers and ash them without entering Windows® OS.

Please note that you must be running on a DHCP congured computer in

order to enable this function.

18. Users may prevent motherboard damages due to dampness by enabling

“Dehumidier Function”. When enabling Dehumidier Function, the com-

puter will power on automatically to dehumidify the system after entering

S4/S5 state.

19. VIRTU Un iversal MV P includes the base features of Virtu Universal

technology, which virtualizes integrated GPU and discrete GPU for best

of breed functionality. It also features Virtual Vsync™ for no-compromise

visual quality. With the added benefits of HyperFormance technology,

VIRTU Universal MVP improves game performance by intelligently reduc-

ing redundant rendering tasks in the ow between the CPU, GPU and the

display.

20. Although this motherboard offers stepless control, it is not recommended

to perform over-clocking. Frequencies other than the recommended CPU

bus frequencies may cause instability of the system or damage the CPU.

21. While CPU overheat is detected, the system will automatically shutdown.

Before you resume the system, please check if the CPU fan on the moth-

erboard functions properly and unplug the power cord, then plug it back

again. To improve heat dissipation, remember to spray thermal grease

between the CPU and the heatsink when you install the PC system.

22. ASRock XFast RAM is not supported by Microsoft® Windows® XP / XP

64-bit. WiFi + BT module, Intel® Smart Connect Technology and Intel®

USB 3.0 ports are not supported by Microsoft® Windows® VistaTM / VistaTM

64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit.

23. EuP stands for Energy Using Product, was a provision regulated by the

European Union to define the power consumption for the completed

system. According to EuP, the total AC power of the completed system

should be under 1.00W in off mode condition. To meet EuP standards,

an EuP ready motherboard and an EuP ready power supply are required.

According to Intel’s suggestion, the EuP ready power supply must meet

the standard of 5v, and the standby power efciency should be higher

than 50% under 100 mA current consumption. For EuP ready power sup-

ply selection, we recommend you to check with the power supply manu-

facturer for more details.

1.3 Motherboard Layout

Intel

Z77

24.4 cm (9 .6 in)

30.5 cm (1 2.0 in )

ATX12V1

DDR3_ A1 (64 b it, 240 -pin m odule )

DDR3_ A2 (64 b it, 240 -pin m odule )

DDR3_ B1 (64 b it, 240 -pin m odule )

DDR3_ B2 (64 b it, 240 -pin m odule )

ATXPW R1

Z77 E xtr eme 9

Dr.

Debug

CMOS Batte ry

64Mb BIOS

Fast L AN

Fast R AM

Fast U SB

USB3_9_10

USB3_11_12

Super

I/O

PCIE1

PCIE2

PCIE3

PCIE4

PCIE5

PCIE7

PCIE6

LAN PHY

ErP/ EuP Re ady

PCI Ex pres s 3.0

CPU_FAN2

CPU_FAN1

PWR_FAN1

PWRBTN

RSTBTN

CHA_FAN2

CHA_FAN1

USB4_5

USB2_3

USB6_7

CIR1

FRONT_1394

AUDIO

CODEC

HDLED RESET

PLEDPWRB TN

PANEL1

SPEAKER1

PLED1

IR1

CLRCMOS1

HD_AUDIO1

COM1

HDMI_SPDIF1

RoHS

Fron t USB 3 .0

DDR3 3000 + 2 oz C oppe r PCB

SATA2_4_5 SATA2_2_3 SATA3_ 0_1 SATA3_A3_A4 SATA3 _A1_A2

CHA_FAN3

SLI/XFIRE_ PWR1

MINI_P CIE1

WiFi+B T Module

4-Way S LI

PS2

Keyboard/

Mouse

USB3 .0 T:USB1 B:US B2

Clr

CMOS

HDMI

USB3 .0 T:USB3 B:US B4

Top: RJ-45

USB3 .0 T:USB5 B:US B6

Top: RJ-45

USB3 .0 T:USB7 B:US B8

Top:

Central/Ba ss

Center:

REAR SPK

Top:

LINE IN

Center:

FRONT

Bottom:

Optical

SPDIF

Bottom:

MIC IN

USB 2.0 T:USB 0 B:U SB1

ESATA_1

IEEE 1394

5 6

2728293031

1 ATX 12V Power Connector (ATX12V1)

2 1155-Pin CPU Socket

3 Power Fan Connector (PWR_FAN1)

4 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1)

5 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN2)

6 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots

(DDR3_A1, DDR3_B1, Black)

7 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots

(DDR3_A2, DDR3_B2, Black)

8 ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1)

9 USB 3.0 Header (USB3_11_12, Black)

10 USB 3.0 Header (USB3_9_10, Black)

11 Intel Z77 Chipset

12 SATA3 Connectors (SATA3_A1_A2, Gray)

13 SATA3 Connectors (SATA3_A3_A4, Gray)

14 SATA3 Connectors (SATA3_0_1, Gray)

15 SATA2 Connectors (SATA2_2_3, Black)

16 SATA2 Connectors (SATA2_4_5, Black)

17 Reset Switch (RSTBTN)

18 Power Switch (PWRBTN)

19 Power LED Header (PLED1)

20 System Panel Header (PANEL1, Black)

21 Chassis Speaker Header (SPEAKER1, Black)

22 Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1)

23 SPI Flash Memory (64Mb)

24 Dr. Debug

25 mini-PCI Express Slot (MINI_PCIE1)

26 USB 2.0 Header (USB2_3, Black)

27 USB 2.0 Header (USB4_5, Black)

28 USB 2.0 Header (USB6_7, Black)

29 Consumer Infrared Module Header

(CIR1, Gray)

30 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN2)

31 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1)

32 Front Panel IEEE 1394 Header

(FRONT_1394, Black)

33 Infrared Module Header (IR1)

34 COM Port Header (COM1)

35 HDMI_SPDIF Header

(HDMI_SPDIF1, Black)

36 Front Panel Audio Header

(HD_AUDIO1, Black)

37 PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot (PCIE7, Black)

38 WiFi + BT Module

39 PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slot (PCIE6, Black)

40 PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot (PCIE5, Black)

41 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE4, Black)

42 PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot (PCIE3, Black)

43 PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot (PCIE2, Black)

44 PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot (PCIE1, Black)

45 SLI / XFIRE Power Connector

46 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN3)

1.4 I/O Panel

1718

1 PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port (Purple/Green) ** 10 Front Speaker (Lime)

2 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_34) 11 Microphone (Pink)

* 3 LAN RJ-45 Port 12 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_78)

4 USB 2.0 Ports (USB01) 13 IEEE 1394 Port

* 5 LAN RJ-45 Port *** 14 eSATA3 Port (ESATA_1)

6 Central / Bass (Orange) 15 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_56)

7 Rear Speaker (Black) 16 HDMI Port (HDMI1)

8 Optical SPDIF Out Port 17 Clear CMOS Switch (CLRCBTN)

9 Line In (Light Blue) 18 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_12)

* There are two LED next to the LAN port. Please refer to the table below for the LAN port LED

indications.

Activity/Link LED SPEED LED

Status Description Status Description

LAN Port LED Indications

ACT/LINK

LED

SPEED

LED

Off No Link Off 10Mbps connection

Blinking Data Activity Orange 100Mbps connection

On Link Green 1Gbps connection

LAN Port

If you use 2-channel speaker, please connect the speaker’s plug into “Front Speaker Jack”.

See the table below for connection details in accordance with the type of speaker you use.

TABLE for Audio Output Connection

Audio Output Channels Front Speaker Rear Speaker Central / Bass Line In or

(No. 10) (No. 7) (No. 6) Side Speaker

(No. 9)

2 V -- -- --

4 V V -- --

6 V V V --

8 V V V V

To enable Multi-Streaming function, you need to connect a front panel audio cable to the front

panel audio header. After restarting your computer, you will nd “Mixer” tool on your system.

Please select “Mixer ToolBox” , click “Enable playback multi-streaming”, and click

“ok”. Choose “2CH”, “4CH”, “6CH”, or “8CH” and then you are allowed to select “Realtek HDA

Primary output” to use Rear Speaker, Central/Bass, and Front Speaker, or select “Realtek

HDA Audio 2nd output” to use front panel audio.

*** eSATA3 connector supports SATA Gen3 in cable 1M.

1.5 WiFi + BT Module and ASRock Wi-SB Box

WiFi + BT Module

This motherboard comes with an exclusive WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n + BT v4.0 module

that offers support for WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n connectivity standards and Bluetooth v4.0.

WiFi + BT module is an easy-to-use wireless local area network (WLAN) adapter to

support WiFi + BT function. Bluetooth v4.0 standard features Smart Ready technol-

ogy that adds a whole new class of functionality into the mobile devices including

Apple’s most recent iPhone 4S. BT 4.0 also includes Low Energy Technology and

ensures extraordinary low power consumption for PCs. The 2T2R WiFi solution sets

up WiFi high speed standard and offers max link rate up to 300Mbps. Compared to

other 1T1R WiFi motherboards with 150Mbps, ASRock 2T2R WiFi solution drives

up to 2X faster speed than 1T1R ones.

* The transmission speed may vary according to the environment.

* WiFi + BT module is supported under Windows® 7 / 7 64-bit only.

WiFi + BT Module

ASRock Wi-SB Box

Thanks to the excellent placement of antennas, ASRock Wi-SB Box comes with two

invisible antennas (placed in a vertical/horizontal position), hidden inside the front

panel that provide the most stable and unrestricted-direction wireless network cover-

age, optimized for maximum broadband network. Additionally, it provides two Front

USB 3.0 ports for easier USB 3.0 device access and 1 rack for SSD placement.

* For WiFi + BT module and ASRock Wi-SB Box installation guide, please refer to

page 40 for details.

ASRock Wi-SB Box

Chapter 2: Installation

This is an ATX form factor (12.0" x 9.6", 30.5 x 24.4 cm) motherboard. Before you

install the motherboard, study the conguration of your chassis to ensure that the

motherboard ts into it.

motherboard. Failure to do so may cause physical injuries to you and

damages to motherboard components.

Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the

2.1 Screw Holes

Place screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the

chassis.

Do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may damage the motherboard.

2.2 Pre-installation Precautions

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components

or change any motherboard settings.

1. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any

components.

2. To avoid damaging the motherboard’s components due to static

electricity, NEVER place your motherboard directly on the carpet

or the like. Also remember to use a grounded wrist strap or touch a

safety grounded object before you handle the components.

3. Hold components by the edges and do not touch the ICs.

4. Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded anti-

static pad or in the bag that comes with the component.

5. When placing screws into the screw holes to secure the mother-

board to the chassis, please do not over-tighten the screws! Doing

so may damage the motherboard.

Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the power 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, and/or

components.

2.3 CPU Installation

In order to provide the LGA 1155 CPU sock-

ets more protection and make the instal-

lation process easier, ASRock has added

a new protection cover on top of the load

plate to replace the former PnP caps that

were under the load plate. For the installa-

tion of Intel® 1155-Pin CPUs with the new

protection cover, please foll ow the steps

below.

Before you insert the 1155-Pin CPU into the socket, please check if the

CPU surface is unclean or if there are any bent pins in the socket. Do

not force to insert the CPU into the socket if above situation is found.

Otherwise, the CPU will be seriously damaged.

Step 1. Open the socket:

Step 1-1. Disengage the lever by pressing i t

down and sliding it out of the hook.

You do not have to remove the pro-

tection cover.

Step 1-2. Keep the lever positioned at about

135 degre es in order to flip up the

load plate.

Loa d Pla te

Cov er

Con tac t

Arr ay

1155-Pin Socket Overview

Loa d

Lev er

Soc ket

Bod y

Step 2. Insert the 1155-Pin CPU:

Step 2-1. Hold the CPU by the edge which is

marked with a black line.

Step 2-2. Orient the CPU with the IHS (Inte-

grated Heat Sink) up. Locate Pin1

and the two orientation key notches.

black line

orientation key notch

Pin1

alignment key

Pin1

orientation key notch

1155-Pin CPU

For proper installation, please ensure to match the two orientation

key notches of the CPU with the two alignment keys of the socket.

Step 2-3. Caref u l l y plac e the C P U into t h e

socket.

Step 2-4. Verify that the CPU is within the sock-

et and properly mated to the orient

keys.

Step 3. Close the socket:

Step 3-1. Flip the load plate onto the IHS.

Step 3-2. Press down the load lever, and se-

cure it with the load plate tab under

th e reten t i o n tab . The p r o tecti o n

cover will automatically come off by

itself.

alignment key

1155-Pin Socket

Please save and replace the cover if the processor is removed. The

cover must be placed if you wish to return the motherboard for after

service.

2.4 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

Appl y The rmal Inte rfac e Mat eria l

Fan c able s on side clos est t o MB head er

Fast ener slo ts poin ting str aigh t out

Pres s Dow n (4 Pl aces )

This motherboard is equipped with 1155-Pin socket that supports Intel 1155-Pin

CPUs. Please adopt the type of heatsink and cooling fan compliant with Intel 1155-

Pin CPU to dissipate heat. Before you install the heatsink, you need to spray ther-

mal interface material between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat dissipa-

tion. Ensure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fastened and in good con-

tact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to the CPU_FAN connector (CPU_

FAN1, see page 14, No. 4 or CPU_FAN2, see page 14. No. 5).

For proper installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of your

CPU fan and heatsink.

Below is an example to illustrate the installation of the heatsink for 1155-Pin CPUs.

Step 1. Apply thermal interface material onto the cen-

ter of the IHS on the socket’s surface.

Step 2. Place the heatsink onto the socket. Ensure

that the fan cables are oriented on side closest

to the CPU fan connector on the motherboard

(CPU_FAN1, see page 14, No. 4 or CPU_

FAN2, see page 14. No. 5).

Step 3. Align fasteners with the motherboard through-

holes.

Step 4. Rotate the fastener clockwise, then press

down on fastener caps with thumb to install

and lock. Repeat with remaining fasteners.

If you press down the fasteners without rotating them clockwise, the

heatsink cannot be secured on the motherboard.

Step 5. Connect fan header with the CPU fan connector on the motherboard.

Step 6. Secure redundant cable with tie-wrap to ensure the cable does not

interfere with fan operation or contact other components.

2.5 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)

This motherboard provides four 240-pin DDR3 (Double Data Rate 3) DIMM

slots, and supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. For dual channel cong-

uration, you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size and

chip-type) DDR3 DIMM pair in the slots: You have to install identical DDR3

DIMMs in Dual Channel A (DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1; Black slots; see p.14

No. 6) or identical DDR3 DIMMs in Dual Channel B (DDR3_A2 and DDR3_

B2; Black slots; see p.14 No. 7), so that Dual Channel Memory Technology can

be activated. This motherboard also allows you to install four DDR3 DIMMs

for dual channel conguration, please install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four

slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel Memory Conguration Table below.

Dual Channel Memory Conguration

DDR3_A1 DDR3_A2 DDR3_B1 DDR3_B2

(Black Slot) (Black Slot) (Black Slot) (Black Slot)

(1) Populated - Populated -

(2) - Populated - Populated

(3)* Populated Populated Populated Populated

For conguration (3), please install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four

slots.

1. If you want to install two memory modules, for optimal compatibility

and reliability, it is recommended to install them in the slots: DDR3_

A1 and DDR3_B1, or DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2.

2. If only one memory module or three memory modules are installed

in the DDR3 DIMM slots on this motherboard, it is unable to activate

Dual Channel Memory Technology.

3. If a pair of memory modules is NOT installed in the same Dual

Cha nn el , for example, insta ll in g a pair of memory modules in

DDR3_A1 and DDR3_A2, it is unable to activate Dual Ch annel

Memory Technology.

4. It is not allowed to install a DDR or DDR2 memory module into

DDR3 slot; otherwise, this motherboard and DIMM may be dam-

aged.

5. Some DDR3 1GB double-sided DIMMs with 16 chips may not work

on this motherboard. It is not recommended to install them on this

motherboard.

6. For optimal compatibility and stability while overclocking memory

frequency, it is recommen ded to install one memory module on

DDR3_B2 slot or two memory modules on DDR3_A2 and DDR3_

B2 slots.

Installing a DIMM

Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or

removing DIMMs or the system components.

Step 1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.

Step 2. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the

break on the slot.

The DIMM only ts in one correct orientation. It will cause permanent

damage to the motherboard and the DIMM if you force the DIMM into

the slot at incorrect orientation.

Step 3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends

fully snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.

2.6 Expansion Slots (PCI Express Slots)

There are 7 PCI Express slots and 1 mini-PCI Express slot on this motherboard.

PCIE slots:

PCIE1 / PCIE5 (PCIE 3.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x16 lane

width graphics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support

CrossFireXTM or SLITM function.

PCIE3 / PCIE7 (PCIE 3.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x8 lane

width graphics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support

CrossFireXTM or SLITM function.

PCIE2 (PCIE 3.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x16 lane width

graphics cards.

PCIE4 (PCIE 2.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x4 lane width graph-

ics cards or ASRock Game Blaster.

PCIE6 (PCIE 2.0 x1 slot) is used for a PCI Express x1 lane width card,

such as a Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card, etc.

MINI_PCIE1 (mini-PCIE slot) is used for WiFi + BT module.

PCIE1 PCIE2 PCIE3 PCIE5 PCIE7

Single Graphics Card N/A x16 N/A N/A N/A

Two Graphics Cards in x16 N/A N/A x16 N/A

CrossFireXTM or SLITM Mode

Three Graphics Cards in x8 N/A x8 x16 N/A

3-Way CrossFireXTM or

3-Way SLITM Mode

Four Graphics Cards in x8 N/A x8 x8 x8

4-Way CrossFireXTM or

4-Way SLITM Mode

PCIE Slot Congurations

1. In single VGA card mode, it is recommended to install a PCI Express

x16 graphics card in the PCIE2 slot.

2. PCIE1, PCIE3, PCIE5 and PCIE7 slots will be disabled if PCIE2 slot

is occupied.

3. In CrossFireXTM mode or SLITM mode, please install the PCI Express

x16 graphics cards in PCIE1 and PCIE5 slots. Both these two slots

will work at x16 bandwidth.

4. In 3-Way CrossFireXTM or 3-Way SLITM mode, please install the PCI

Express x16 graphics cards in PCIE1, PCIE3 and PCIE5 slots. PCIE1

and PCIE3 will work at x8 bandwidth, while PCIE5 works at x16

bandwidth.

5. In 4-Way CrossFireXTM or 4-Way SLITM mode, please install the PCI

Express x16 graphics cards in PCIE1, PCIE3, PCIE5 and PCIE7

slots. All these four slots will work at x8 bandwidth.

6. Please connect a chassis fan to the motherboard’s chassis fan

connector (CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2 or CHA_FAN3) when using

multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

7. Only PCIE1, PCIE2, PCIE3, PCIE5, PCIE6 and PCIE7 slots support

Gen 3 speed. To run the PCI Express in Gen 3 speed, please install

an Ivy Bridge CPU. If you install a Sandy Bridge CPU, the PCI

Express will run only at PCI Express Gen 2 speed.

Installing an expansion card

Step 1. Before installing an expansion card, please make sure that the power

supply is switched off or the power cord is unplugged. Please read the

documentation of the expansion card and make necessary hardware

settings for the card before you start the installation.

Step 2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed

in a chassis).

Step 3. Remove the bracket facing the slot that you intend to use. Keep the

screws for later use.

Step 4. Align the card connector with the slot and press rmly until the card is

completely seated on the slot.

Step 5. Fasten the card to the chassis with screws.

Step 6. Replace the system cover.

2.7 SLITM, 3-Way SLITM, 4-Way SLITM and Quad SLI

Operation

Guide

This motherboard supports NVIDIA® SLITM, 3-Way SLITM, 4-Way SLITM and Quad

SLITM (Scalable Link Interface) technology that allows you to install up to four

identical PCI Express x16 graphics cards. Currently, NVIDIA® SLITM technology

supports Windows® XP / XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit OS. NVIDIA®

3-Way SLITM, 4-Way SLITM and Quad SLITM technology supports Windows® VistaTM /

VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit OS only. Please follow the installation procedures in this

section.

Requirements

1. For SLITM technology, you should have two identical SLITM-ready graphics

cards that are NVIDIA® certied. For 3-Way SLITM technology you should

have three, whereas for 4-Way SLITM technology you should have four. For

Quad SLITM technology, you should have two identical Quad SLITM-ready

graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certied.

2. Make sure that your graphics card driver supports NVIDIA® SLITM technology.

Download the driver from NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).

3. Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the

minimum power required by your system. It is recommended to use NVIDIA®

certied PSU. Please refer to NVIDIA® website for details.

2.7.1 Graphics Card Setup

2.7.1.1 Installing Two SLITM-Ready Graphics Cards

Step 1. Install identical SLITM-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certied be-

cause different types of graphics cards will not work together properly. (Even

the GPU chips version shall be the same.) Insert one graphics card into

PCIE1 slot and the other graphics card to PCIE5 slot. Make sure that the

cards are properly seated on the slots.

Step2. If required, connect the auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graph-

ics cards.

Step3. Align and insert the ASRock SLI_Bridge_3S Card to the goldngers on

each graphics card. Make sure the ASRock SLI_Bridge_3S Card is rmly

in place.

ASRock SLI_Bridge_3S Card

Step4. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI cable to the monitor connector or the DVI

connector of the graphics card that is inserted to PCIE1 slot.

2.7.1.2 Installing Three SLITM-Ready Graphics Cards

Step 1. Install identical 3-Way SLITM-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certi-

ed because different types of graphics cards will not work together prop-

erly. (Even the GPU chips version shall be the same.) Each graphics card

should have two goldngers for the 3-Way SLI Bridge connector. Insert

one graphics card into PCIE1 slot, another graphics card to PCIE3 slot,

and the other graphics card to PCIE5 slot. Make sure that the cards are

properly seated on the slots.

Two Goldngers

Step2. Connect the auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graphics card.

Please make sure that both power connectors on the PCI Express graph-

ics card are connected. Repeat this step on the three graphics cards.

Step3. Align and insert the ASRock 3-Way SLI Bridge Card to the goldfingers

on each graphics card. Make sure the ASRock 3-Way SLI Bridge Card is

rmly in place.

ASRock 3-Way SLI Bridge Card

Step4. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI cable to the monitor connector or the DVI

connector of the graphics card that is inserted to PCIE1 slot.

2.7.1.3 Installing Four SLITM-Ready Graphics Cards

Step 1. Install identical 4-Way SLITM-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certi-

ed because different types of graphics cards will not work together prop-

erly. (Even the GPU chips version shall be the same.) Each graphics card

should have two goldngers for the ASRock SLI Bridge Card connectors.

Insert one graphics card into the PCIE1 slot, another graphics card into the

PCIE3 slot, the third graphics card into the PCIE5 slot and the last graph-

ics card into the PCIE7 slot. Make sure that the cards are properly seated

on the slots.

Two Goldngers

Step2. Connect the auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graphics card.

Please make sure that both power connectors on the PCI Express graph-

ics card are connected. Repeat this step on the other graphics cards.

Step3. Align and insert an ASRock SLI Bridge Card to the goldngers of the rst

and second graphics card. Install the second ASRock SLI Bridge Card to

the goldngers of the third and fourth graphics card. Connect the second

and the fourth graphics card with the ASRock SLI_Bridge_3S Card. Make

sure the ASRock SLI Bridge Cards are rmly in place.

2 ASRock SLI_Bridge Cards

and an ASRock SLI_Bridge_3S Card

Step4. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI cable to the monitor connector or the DVI

connector of the graphics card that is inserted to PCIE1 slot.

+ 69 hidden pages

ASRock Z77 Extreme9 Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual