ASUS Z87C, 90SB0390M0AAY0, Z87-WS User Manual

Z87-WS

Motherboard

E8226 First Edition

May 2013

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Contents

Safety information ..................................................................................................... vii

About this guide ....................................................................................................... viii

Z87-WS specications summary ............................................................................... x

Package contents ...................................................................................................... xv

Installation tools and components ......................................................................... xvi

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.1 Special features..........................................................................................1-1

1.1.1 Product highlights

1.1.2 ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features .......................................

1.1.3 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization ...............

1.1.4 ASUS Exclusive Features ...........................................................

1.1.5 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution .....................................................

1.1.6 ASUS EZ DIY ..............................................................................

1.1.7 Other special features .................................................................

1.2 Motherboard overview ...............................................................................

1.2.1 Before you proceed .....................................................................

1.2.2 Motherboard layout .....................................................................

1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................

1.2.4 System memory ........................................................................

1.2.5 Expansion slots .........................................................................

1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches

1.2.7 Onboard LEDs ..........................................................................

1.2.8 Internal connectors

........................................................................ 1-1

.................................................. 1-17

.................................................................... 1-31

1-3

1-4

1-5

1-6

1-7

1-8

1-9

1-11

1-12

1-15

1-23

Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1 Building your PC system...........................................................................2-1

2.1.1 Motherboard installation ..............................................................

2.1.2 CPU installation

2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ...............................

2.1.4 DIMM installation

2.1.5 ATX Power connection ................................................................

2.1.6 SATA device connection ..............................................................

2.1.7 Front I/O Connectors

2.1.8 Expansion Card installation

........................................................................... 2-3

......................................................................... 2-6

................................................................... 2-9

....................................................... 2-10

2-1

2-4

2-7

2-8

iii

2.2 BIOS update utility ................................................................................... 2-11

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections .............................................

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection ..................................................................

2.3.2 Audio I/O connections ...............................................................

2.4 Starting up for the rst time ....................................................................

2.5 Turning off the computer .........................................................................

2-13

2-15

2-17

2-18

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS ............................................................................................3-1

3.2 BIOS setup program ..................................................................................

3.2.1 EZ Mode

3.2.2 Advanced Mode ..........................................................................

3.3 My Favorites ...............................................................................................

3.4 Main menu ..................................................................................................

3.5 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................................

3.6 Advanced menu .......................................................................................

3.6.1 CPU Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.2 PCH Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.3 SATA Conguration ...................................................................

3.6.4 System Agent Conguration

3.6.5 USB Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.6 Platform Misc Conguration ......................................................

3.6.7 Onboard Devices Conguration ................................................

3.6.8 APM ..........................................................................................

3.6.9 Network Stack ...........................................................................

3.7 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................

3.8 Boot menu ................................................................................................

3.9 Tools menu ...............................................................................................

3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............................................................

3.9.2 ASUS O.C. Prole .....................................................................

3.9.3 ASUS SPD Information .............................................................

3.10 Exit menu ..................................................................................................

3.11 Updating BIOS ..........................................................................................

3.11.1 EZ Update .................................................................................

3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ......................................................................

3.11.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ..........................................................

3.11.4 ASUS BIOS Updater .................................................................

...................................................................................... 3-3

...................................................... 3-31

3-2

3-4

3-6

3-7

3-9

3-24

3-25

3-28

3-29

3-33

3-34

3-35

3-37

3-38

3-39

3-42

3-48

3-49

3-50

3-51

3-52

3-53

3-54

Chapter 4: Software support

4.1 Installing an operating system .................................................................4-1

4.2 Support DVD information ..........................................................................

4.2.1 Running the support DVD ...........................................................

4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals

.................................................. 4-2

4.3 Software information .................................................................................

4.3.1 AI Suite 3

..................................................................................... 4-3

4.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 ......................................................

4.3.3 EPU .............................................................................................

4.3.4 DIGI+ Power Control .................................................................

4.3.5 Fan Xpert 2 ...............................................................................

4.3.6 USB 3.0 Boost

4.3.7 Network iControl

........................................................................... 4-15

........................................................................ 4-16

4.3.8 USB BIOS Flashback ................................................................

4.3.9 Ai Charger+ ...............................................................................

4.3.10 EZ Update .................................................................................

4.3.11 USB Charger+ ...........................................................................

4.3.12 System Information ...................................................................

4.3.13 ASUS SSD Caching II ...............................................................

4.3.14 Audio congurations

.................................................................. 4-26

4.3.15 ASUS Dr. Power Utility ..............................................................

4-1

4-3

4-5

4-8

4-10

4-12

4-18

4-19

4-20

4-21

4-22

4-24

4-27

Chapter 5: RAID support

5.1 RAID congurations ..................................................................................5-1

5.1.1 RAID denitions ..........................................................................

5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks ...................................................

5.1.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ....................................................

5.1.4 Intel

5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk

Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility ..................5-3

....................................................................... 5-7

5.2.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ..................

5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows

5.2.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows

.................................... 5-8

OS installation ........ 5-8

5-1

5-2

5-7

Chapter 6: Multiple GPU support

6.1 ATI® CrossFireX™ technology ..................................................................6-1

6.1.1 Requirements ..............................................................................

6.1.2 Before you begin .........................................................................

6.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards ................................

6.1.4 Installing three CrossFireX™ graphics cards ..............................

6.1.5 Installing four CrossFireX™ graphics cards ................................

6.1.6 Installing the device drivers .........................................................

6.1.7 Enabling the AMD

6.2 NVIDIA

SLI™ technology ......................................................................... 6-7

CrossFireX™ technology ............................. 6-5

6.2.1 Requirements ..............................................................................

6.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards ......................................

6.2.3 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards ....................................

6.2.4 Installing four SLI-ready graphics cards ....................................

6.2.5 Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology ..................................

6.3 NVIDIA

CUDA™ technology .................................................................. 6-13

6.3.1 Requirements ............................................................................

6.3.2 Installing CUDA-ready graphics cards ......................................

6-1

6-2

6-3

6-4

6-5

6-7

6-8

6-9

6-10

6-11

6-13

Appendices

Notices .................................................................................................................... A-1

ASUS contact information ...................................................................................... A-5

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 x it by yourself. Contact a qualied 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 qualied service

• technician or your retailer.

vii

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring 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. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.

• Chapter 2: Basic installation

This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components.

• 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: RAID support

This chapter describes the RAID congurations.

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.

2. Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty yers,

that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

viii

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 Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign

<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

means that you must press the enclosed key.

Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key.

names are linked with a plus sign (+).

Z87-WS specications summary

CPU LGA1150 socket for the 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel®

Core™i5/ Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors

Supports 22nm CPU

Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*

* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU

types.

Chipset Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 2800 (O.C.)* / 2666 (O.C.)* 2600

(O.C.)* / 2500 (O.C.)* / 2400 (O.C.)* / 2200(O.C.)* / 2133(O.C.)* /

2000 (O.C.)* / 1866(O.C.)* / 1800(O.C.)* /1600 / 1333 MHz, non-

ECC, un-buffered memory

Dual channel memory architecture

Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)

* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of

individual CPUs. Please refer to Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List)

for details.

Expansion slots 4 x PCI Express 3.0*/2.0 x16 slots (single at x16, dual at x16/x16

mode, triple at x16/x8/x8, quad at x8/x8/x8/x8)

2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots

VGA Integrated Graphics Processor - Intel® HD Graphics support

Multi-VGA output support: DisplayPort/Mini DisplayPort/HDMI port

Supports DisplayPort 1.2* with max. resolution 4096x2160@24Hz and 3840x2160@60Hz

Supports HDMI with max. resolution of 4096x2160@24Hz and 2560x1600@60Hz

Supports Intel® InTru™ 3D, Intel® Quick Sync Video, Intel® Clear Video HD Technology, and Intel® Insider™

Supports up to three displays simultaneously

Maximum shared memory 1024MB

* DisplayPort 1.2 Multi-Stream Transport compliant, supports

DisplayPort 1.2 monitor daisy chain up to 3 displays.

Multi-GPU support Supports NVIDIA® 4-Way SLI™ Technology

Supports AMD® 4-Way CrossFireX™ Technology

LAN 2 x Intel® I210 Gigabit LAN controller

(continued on the next page)

Z87-WS specications summary

Storage

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10

- 6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (yellow)

- Supports Intel Response Technology, Intel® Rapid Start Technology, Intel® Smart Connect Technology*

Dynamic Storage Accelerator, Intel® Smart

Marvell® 9230 SATA controllers

- 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 10 and port multiplier support

ASMedia® SATA 6Gb/s controller**

- 2 x eSATA 6Gb/s ports with port multiplier support

* Supported on Intel® Core™ processor family. ** These SATA ports are for data hard drives only. ATAPI devices are not

supported.

1394 VIA VT6315N controller support 1x1394a port

Audio

Realtek® ALC1150 8-channel high denition audio CODEC

- High quality 112dB SNR stereo playback output (Line-out at rear) and 104dB SNR recording input (Line-in) support.

- Absolute Pitch 192khz/24-bit True BD Lossless Sound

- BD audio layer content protection

- DTS UltraPC II

- DTS Connect

- Supports jack-detection, multi-streaming and front panel jackretasking

- Optical S/PDIF out ports at rear I/O

USB

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset - supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

- 1 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at rear panel (blue)

- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support

- 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports at rear panel

- 5 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports at mid-board

ASMedia® USB 3.0 controller - supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

- 3 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at rear panel (blue)

Workstation unique features

4 PCIe x 16 slots

ASUS Dr. Power

Quick gate: 1 vertical USB 2.0 on board

ASUS WS Diag. LED

(continued on the next page)

Z87-WS specications summary

ASUS unique features

ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization

- 4-Way Optimization tuning key perfectly consolidates

ASUS-exclusive DIGI+Power Control, TPU, EPU, and Fan

Xpert 2 that quickly optimize the digital power setting, system

performance, power saving and whole system cooling

conguration with just a click.

CPU Power

- Industry leading digital 8-phase power design

- ASUS CPU power utility

DRAM Power

- Industry leading digital 2-phase DRAM power design

- ASUS DRAM power utility

ASUS EPU

- EPU, EPU switch

ASUS TPU

- TurboV, GPU Boost, TPU switch

ASUS Fan Xpert 2

- Featuring Fan Auto Tuning function for optimized speed

control.

ASUS Exclusive Features:

- Network iControl featuring instant network bandwidth domination for top network program in use

- USB 3.0 Boost featuring speedy USB 3.0 transmission

- USB Charger+ featuring quick-charging function for all smart devices

- Ai Charger+

- Disk Unlocker

- AI Suite 3

- Anti Surge

- MemOK!

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:

- ASUS Fan Xpert 2

- ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-sink solution

ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS USB BIOS Flashback with USB BIOS Flashback Wizard

for EZ BIOS download scheduling

- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphical user interface

- ASUS O.C. Tuner

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS Q-Design

- ASUS Q-Shield

- ASUS Q-Code

- ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)

- ASUS Q-Slot

- ASUS Q-DIMM

- ASUS Q-Connector

(continued on the next page)

xii

Z87-WS specications summary

Rear Panel I/O Ports 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)

4 x USB 2.0/1.0 ports (1 supports USB BIOS Flashback)

1 x PS/2 Keyboard/mouse port

1 x HDMI port

1 x Display port

1 x Mini-Display port

2 x eSATA ports

2 x LAN (RJ-45) ports (2 x Intel® LAN)

1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port

8-channel Audio I/O ports

Internal I/O connectors 10 x SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (6 x yellow; 4 x dark brown)

1 x mSATA connector

1 x 4-pin CPU Fan connector supports both 3-pin (DC mode) and

4-pin (PWM mode) CPU coolers control

1 x 4-pin CPU Optional Fan connector (CPU_OPT)

4 x 4-pin Chassis Fan connectors

1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)

1 x S/PDIF out header

1 x TPM connector

1 x chassis intrusion header

1 x COM port

1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector

2 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector

1 x 6-pin EATX 12V_1 Power connector

1 x System Panel (Q-connector)

1 x MemOK! button

1 x Clear CMOS jumper

1 x mSATA switch jumper

1 x DirectKey button

1 x DRCT (DirectKey) connector

1 x EPU switch

1 x TPU switch (advanced 2-stage adjustments)

1 x Power on switch

1 x CHAFAN_SEL jumper

1 x Dr. Power switch

BIOS features 64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.7, WfM2.0, SM

BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS

CrashFree BIOS 3, My Favorites, Quick Note, Last Modied log,

F12 PrintScreen, F3 Shortcut functions, and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information

(continued on the next page)

xiii

Z87-WS specications summary

Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.7, WOL by PME, PXE

Support DVD contents Drivers

ASUS Utilities

ASUS Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

Accessories 10 x Serial ATA 6Gb/s cables

1 x COM port bracket

1 x USB+ 1394 bracket

1 x ASUS 4-Way SLI bridge connector

1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI bridge connector

1 x ASUS SLI bridge connector

1 x 2-in-1 Q-connector

1 x User’s manual

1 x I/O Shield

Form factor ATX form factor: 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)

Specications are subject to change without notice.

xiv

User Manual

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items

ASUS Z87-WS motherboard User manual Support DVD

10 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables COM port bracket

1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge connector

1 x 2-in-1 Q-connector 1 x I/O Shield

1 x ASUS 4-Way SLI™ bridge

connector

• If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

• The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specications may

vary with different models.

2 USB ports + 1394a cable with

1394 bracket

1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI™ bridge

connector

Installation tools and components

1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver

PC chassis Power supply unit

Intel® LGA1150 CPU Intel® LGA1150 compatible CPU Fan

DIMM SATA hard disk drive

xvi

SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional)

The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Product introduction

1.1 Special features

1.1.1 Product highlights

LGA1150 socket for 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors

This motherboard supports 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium®, and Celeron® processors in the LGA1150 package. It provides great graphics and system performance with its GPU, dual-channel DDR3 memory slots and PCI Express 2.0/3.0 expansion slots.

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset is a single chipset that supports the LGA1150 socket for 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron®

processors. It utilizes serial point-to-point links, which increases bandwidth and enhances

the system’s performance. It natively supports up to six USB 3.0 ports for up to ten times faster transfer rate than USB 2.0 and enables the iGPU function for Intel performance.

PCI Express® 3.0

PCI Express® 3.0 (PCIe 3.0) is the PCI Express bus standard that provides twice the performance and speed of PCIe 2.0. It provides optimal graphics performance, unprecedented data speed, and seamless transition with its complete backward compatibility to PCIe 1.0/2.0 devices.

Dual-Channel DDR3 2800 (O.C.) / 2666 (O.C.) / 2600 (O.C.) / 2500 (O.C.) / 2400 (O.C.) / 2200 (O.C.) / 2133 (OC.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1800 (O.C.) / 1600 /

1333 MHz Support

The motherboard supports dual-channel DDR3 memory featuring data transfer rates of DDR3 2800 (O.C.) / 2666 (O.C.) / 2600 (O.C.) / 2500 (O.C.) / 2400 (O.C.) / 2200 (O.C.) /

2133 (OC.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1800 (O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 MHz to boost the system’s

performance, and to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications.

Quad-GPU SLI and CrossFireX™ Support

This motherboard features the most powerful Intel® Z87 platform that optimizes PCIe allocation in a multi-GPU SLI or CrossFireX™ solution, giving you a brand-new gaming enjoyment.

integrated graphics

ASUS Z87-WS

Chapter 1

1-1

Intel® Smart Response Technology

Intel® Smart Response Technology, an important part of Green ASUS eco-friendly computing, reduces load and wait time, eliminates unecessary hard drive spin thus lowering power usage, and uses an installed SSD (requires 18.6 GB available space) as a cache for frequently accessed data or applications. It combines SSD performance and hard drive capacity, operating up to six times faster than a hard-drive-only system to boost the system’s overall performance.

* 4th Generation Intel® Core™ processors family support Intel® Smart Response Technology. ** An operating system must be installed on the HDD to launch Intel *** The SSD is reserved for caching function.

Smart Response Technology.

Intel® Smart Connect Technology

Your computer can receive fresh updates for selected applications, even when the system is in sleep mode. This means less time waiting for applications to update and sync with the

cloud, leading to a more efcient computing experience.

Intel® Rapid Start Technology

Intel® Rapid Start Technology allows your system to receive updates for your web applications in real-time even when your system is in sleep mode, saving wait time and power usage.

Chapter 1

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1.2 ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features

Best performance for PCI Express 3.0 4-Way CrossFireX™ and SLI™

Native third generation PCI Express x16 4-way AMD CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA® SLI™ offer the fastest and most reliable graphics performance ever. It’s ideal for professional use in mechanical, architectural, and interior design, aeronautics, and audiovisual content creation. Additionally, the ample graphics power can easily run even the most demanding PC games in full detail for enhanced entertainment.

ASUS Dr. Power: Intelligent power supply monitoring

Power supply health detection helps prevent sudden system shutdown and provides hassle-

free notications should power delivery be insufcient. Additionally, LED messages on the

board clearly indicate any relevant power issues in the event your system fails to boot.

Built-in dual server-class Intel® i210 Ethernet

For more reliable networking, the Z87-WS features the latest server class built-in Intel®

Ethernet adapter. This leads to lower CPU utilization and temperature, outstanding

performance, as well as better support for diverse operating systems.

Beat Thermal Chokes: Better stability and lower power loss

ASUS Beat Thermal Chokes deliver great durability and up to 93% power efciency under normal operation. A special n design results in 3-50C lower choke temps for added stability, which is increased exponentially through use of highly conductive and efcient gold-treated

coating. This translates to minimal loss of power delivery.

Extra mSATA 6Gb/s

A built-in mSATA 6Gb/s card provides users diverse storage options. Install your SSD to a mSATA 6Gb/s port for super-fast boot up and reduced resume times.

Diagnostic LED

Diag. LED checks key components (CPU, memory, graphics card, and hard drive) in sequence during bootup. If an error is found, the LED next to the relevant device will stay lit until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem.

Quick Gate

Quick Gate is a vertical USB connector on the motherboard, allowing you to install USB devices directly with no messy cables. This stops important data storage devices from breaking off unexpectedly. P8P67 WS Revolution with this unique design provides a convenient and safe way to install data and applications on your PC.

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1-3

1.1.3 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization

ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 4 brings system control solution to a totally whole new level, combining TPU, EPU, DIGI+ Power Control and Fan Xpert 2 functions to push the system’s performance to its optimal potential. It automatically pushes or reasonably balances the system’s performance, power saving levels and fan settings via the user-friendly AI Suite 3 utility.

Digital Power Control

ASUS DIGI+ Power Control features the revolutionary and innovative digital VRM, DRAM, and CPU Voltage controllers. These controllers offers ultra-precise memory and voltage

tuning for optimal system efciency, stability and performance.

TPU

TPU (Turbo Processing Unit), offers precise voltage control and advanced monitoring mechanisms through the TurboV functions in your ASUS AI Suite 3 utility.

EPU

EPU (Energy Processing Unit), the world’s rst real-time system power-saving chip,

automatically detects the current system load and intelligently moderates power usage.

It offers a total system-wide energy optimization, reduces fan noise, and extends the

component’s lifespan.

ASUS Fan Xpert 2

ASUS Fan Xpert 2 provides customizable settings for a cooler and quieter computing

environment. With its Fan Auto Tuning feature, ASUS Fan Xpert 2 automatically detects

and tweaks all fan speeds, and provides you with optimized fan settings based on the fans’ specications and positions.

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1-4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1.4 ASUS Exclusive Features

USB 3.0 Boost

ASUS USB 3.0 Boost, which supports USB 3.0 standard UASP (USB Attached SCSI

Protocol), signicantly increases a USB device’s transfer speed up to 170% faster than the

already impressive USB 3.0 transfer speed. It automatically accelerates data speeds for compatible USB 3.0 peripherals without the need for any user interaction.

USB Charger+

With a dedicated onboard controller, quick-charge all your smart devices such as smartphones, tablets and more, all up to three times faster, even when the system is powered off, in sleep or hibernation mode.

USB BIOS Flashback

USB BIOS Flashback offers a hassle-free updating solution for your ultimate convenience.

Connect a USB storage device containing the BIOS le, press the BIOS Flashback button

for about three seconds, and the UEFI BIOS is automatically updated even without entering the existing BIOS or operating system. It also allows you to regularly check for UEFI BIOS updates, and download the latest BIOS automatically.

AI Suite 3

With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite 3 consolidates all the exclusive ASUS features into one simple-to-use software package. It allows you to supervise overclocking, energy management, fan speed control, voltage and sensor readings, and even interact with smart devices via Wi-Fi. This all-in-one software offers diverse and easy to use features with no need to switch back and forth between different utilities.

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1.1.5 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

ASUS Fanless Design - Heat-sink solution

The stylish heatsink features a 0-dB thermal solution that offers you a noiseless PC environment. The heatsink design also lowers the temperature of the chipset and power

phase area through highly efcient heat-exchange. Combined with usability and aesthetics,

the ASUS stylish heatsink will give you an extremely silent and cooling experience with its elegant appearance.

1.1.6 ASUS EZ DIY

ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)

ASUS UEFI BIOS, a UEFI compliant architecture, offers the rst mouse-controlled intuitive

graphical BIOS interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls,

providing you with more exibility, convenience, and easy to navigate UEFI BIOS than the

traditional BIOS versions. It offers dual modes and native support for hard drives larger than

2.2 TB.

ASUS UEFI BIOS includes the following new features:

• New My Favorite function allows you to quickly access frequently used items

• New Quick Note function allows you to take notes in the BIOS environment

• New log reminder allows you to view all your modied settings

• F12 BIOS snapshot hotkey

• F3 Shortcut for most accessed information

• ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) information detecting faulty DIMMs, and

helping with difcult POST situations.

ASUS Q-connector

ASUS Q-Connector is a unique adapter that allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables to one module, eliminating the hassle of plugging one cable at a time and making the connection quick and accurate.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1.7 Other special features

DTS Connect

To get the most out of your audio entertainment across all formats and quality levels, DTS Connect combines two 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 connect their PC to a home theater system. DTS Interactive is capable of performing mult-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.

DTS UltraPC II

DTS UltraPC II delivers a superior surround sound experience through your system’s speakers and headphones while monitoring and balancing the loudness level difference between digital audio formats. It also enhances audio settings by augmenting low and high frequencies of musical tones, restores compressed or re-mastered sounds, improves bass performance even without a subwoofer, and improves dialogue derived from DVD or Blu-ray Disc™.

ErP Ready

The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires

products to meet certain energy efciency requirement in regards to energy consumption. This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efcient

products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.

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1.2 Motherboard overview

1.2.1 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.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.2 Motherboard layout

Parade PS8201

PLX

PEX8747

Refer to 1.2.6 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

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Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page

1. ATX power connectors

(24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V1, 8-pin EATX12V; 6-pin

EATX12V_1)

2. LGA1150 CPU socket

3. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1~4 )

4. DDR3 DIMM slots

5. EPU switch

6. TPU switch

7. DirectKey

8. MemOK! button

9. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)

10. mSATA connector

11. Marvell 9230 ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1234 [dark brown])

12. Intel

13. Clear CMOS button

14. Direct connector (2-pin DRCT)

15. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)

16. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112, USB1314; USB10)

17. mSATA_SW

18. Q-Code LED

19. IEEE 1394 port connector (10-1 pin IE1394)

20. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

21. Power-on button

22. Reset button

23. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

24. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)

25. ASUS Dr. POWER switch

Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~6 [yellow]) 1-31

1-37

1-11

1-35

1-12

1-21

1-20

1-19

1-18

1-33

1-40

1-32

1-21

1-19

1-38

1-34

1-22

1-24

1-33

1-39

1-17

1-22

1-36

1-32

1-17

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1150 socket designed for the 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors.

• Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.

• Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1150 socket.

• 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

LGA1150 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.

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1.2.4 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.

Recommended memory congurations

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

Memory congurations

You may install 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.

• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conguration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.

• According to Intel 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 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:

a) Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows

b) Install a 64-bit Windows

motherboard.

c) For more details, refer to the 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 value or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.5 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory frequency adjustment.

• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full

memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

• Memory modules with memory frequency higher than 2133MHz and their corresponding timing or the loaded XMP prole is not the JEDEC memory standard.

The stability and compatibility of the memory modules depend on the CPU’s capabilities and other installed devices.

• Always install DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For optimum compatibility, we recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code (D/C) from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory modules.

CPU spec, a DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to

OS, when you install 4GB

OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the

support site at http://support.microsoft.

OS.

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Z87-WS Motherboard Qualied Vendors List (QVL)

Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.5 Expansion slots

Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

Slot No. Slot Description

1 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)

2 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot (at x8 mode)

3 PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot

4 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_3 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)

5 PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot

6 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_4 slot (at x8 mode)

PCIE x16_1 auto switches to x8 when slot PCIE x16_2 is occupied; PCIE x16_2 auto

switches to x4 when slot PCIE x16_4 is occupied.

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1-15

Slot

no.

2 — — x8 x8

4 —

6 — — — x8

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

PCIe x16_1 shared – – – – – – –

PCIe x16_2 shared – – – – – – – PCIe x16_3 shared – – – – – – – PCIe x16_4 shared – – – – – – – PCIe x1_1 – – – shared – – – – PCIe x1_2 shared – – – – – – – Marvell 9230 shared – – – – – – – ASM1061 – shared – – – – – – VIA1394 – – shared – – – – – USB 3.0 – – – – – shared – – LAN1 (I210) – – shared – – – – –

Chapter 1

LAN2 (I210) – – – shared – – – – SATA Controller 1 – – – – shared – – –

SATA Controller 2 – – – – shared – – –

USB 2.0 Controller 1 – – – – – – – shared

USB 2.0 Controller 2 – – – – shared – – –

HD Audio – – – – – – shared –

PCIe Express 3.0 operating mode

Single VGA

x16

(single VGA recommended)

• We recommend that you provide sufcient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™

mode.

• Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

• We recommend you connect an EATX 12V_1 cable when running CrossFireX and SLI.

SLI

CrossFireX

x16 x8 x8

x16

(dual VGA

recommended)

3-WAY SLI

CrossFireX

x16 x8

4-WAY SLI

CrossFireX

A B C D E F G H

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches

Onboard switches and buttons 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 button that allows you to power up or wake up the system. The button also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or installing any motherboard component.

2. 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

notication messages in your Windows screen if a problem is detected with your Power

Supply Unit (PSU).

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1-17

3. MemOK! button

Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! to switch lights continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.

Chapter 1

• Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.

• The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.

• The MemOK! switch does not function under a Windows

• During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.

• Due to memory tuning requirements, the system automatically reboots when each timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones

recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on

the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

• If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.

• If your system fails to boot up due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch to boot and load the BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.

• We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.

OS environment.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

4. DirectKey button

This feature allows your system to go to the BIOS Setup program with the press of a button. With DirectKey, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press the <Del> key during POST. It also allows you to turn on or turn off your system and conveniently enter the BIOS during boot-up.

Ensure to save your data before using the DirectKey button.

• When the system is on and you press the DirectKey button, your system will shut down. Press the DirectKey button again or the Power-on button to reboot and enter the BIOS directly.

• Turn off your system using the power-on button to allow your system to go through POST (without entering the BIOS) when you reboot your system.

• Refer to section function.

3.8 Boot Menu for details about setting the DirectKey default

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1-19

5. TPU switch

With its two-level adjustment functions, the TPU allows you to automatically adjust the CPU ratio and clock speed for optimal system performance.

• Enable this switch when the system is powered off.

• When the TPU switch is set to Enabled (TPU_I: CPU Ratio Boost), the system automatically adjusts the CPU ratio for enhanced performance.

• When the TPU switch is set to Enabled (TPU_II: CPU BCLK and Ratio Boost), the system automatically adjusts the base clock rate (BLCK) and the CPU ratio for enhanced performance.

• The TPU LED (TPU_LED) near the TPU switch lights up when the TPU switch is enabled. Refer to section 1.2.7 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the TPU LED.

• If you enable this switch under a Windows activated after the next system bootup.

• You may use the 4-Way Optimization and TPU feature in the AI Suite 3 application,

adjust the BIOS setup program, or enable the TPU switch at the same time. However, the system will use the last setting you have made.

OS environment, the TPU function will be

Chapter 1

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

6. EPU switch

Enable this switch to automatically detect the current PC loading and intelligently moderate power consumption.

Enable this switch when the system is powered off.

• The EPU LED (OLED2) near the EPU switch lights up when the EPU switch is

enabled. Refer to section 1.2.7 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the EPU LED.

• If you enable this switch under a Windows activated after the next system bootup.

• You may change the EPU settings in the software application or BIOS setup program and enable the EPU function at the same time. However, the system will use the last setting you have made.

OS environment, the EPU function will be

7. Clear CMOS button

Press the Clear CMOS switch to clear BIOS setup information only when the system hangs due to overclocking.

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1-21

8. Reset button

Auto-detect mSATA or SATA port 6

Force mSATA function

Press the reset button to reboot the system.

9. MSATA switch

The mSATA switch congures mSATA support for the motherboard.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.7 Onboard LEDs

1. POST State LEDs

The POST State LEDs provide the status of these key components during POST (Power-On-Self Test): CPU, memory modules, VGA card, and hard disk drives If an error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit until the problem is solved.

2. TPU LED

The TPU LED lights up when the TPU switch is enabled.

ASUS Z87-WS

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1-23

3. EPU LED

The EPU LED lights up when the EPU switch is enabled.

4. Q-Code LED

The Q-Code LED provides you with a 2-digit error code that displays the system status. Refer to the Q-Code table on the next page for details.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

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 initialization before microcode loading

06 Microcode loading

07 AP initialization after microcode loading

08 System Agent initialization after microcode loading

09 PCH initialization after microcode loading

0B Cache initialization

0C – 0D Reserved for future AMI SEC error codes

0E Microcode not found

0F Microcode not loaded

10 PEI Core is started

11 – 14 Pre-memory CPU initialization is started

15 – 18 Pre-memory System Agent initialization is started

19 – 1C Pre-memory PCH initialization is started

2B – 2F Memory initialization

30 Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)

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

4F DXE IPL is started

50 – 53

54 Unspecied memory initialization error

55 Memory not installed

56 Invalid CPU type or Speed

57 CPU mismatch

58 CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error

59 CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed

Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory

speed

(continued on the next page)

Chapter 1

ASUS Z87-WS

1-25

Code Description

5A Internal CPU error

5B Reset PPI is not available

5C – 5F Reserved for future AMI error codes

E0 S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is called by the DXE IPL)

E1 S3 Boot Script execution

E2 Video repost

E3 OS S3 wake vector call

E4 – E7 Reserved for future AMI progress codes

E8 S3 Resume Failed

E9 S3 Resume PPI not Found

EA S3 Resume Boot Script Error

EB S3 OS Wake Error

EC – EF Reserved for future AMI error codes

F0 Recovery condition triggered by rmware (Auto recovery)

F1 Recovery condition triggered by user (Forced recovery)

F2 Recovery process started

F3 Recovery rmware image is found

F4 Recovery rmware image is loaded

F5 – F7 Reserved for future AMI progress codes

F8 Recovery PPI is not available

F9 Recovery capsule is not found

FA Invalid recovery capsule

FB – FF Reserved for future AMI error codes

60 DXE Core is started

61 NVRAM initialization

62 Installation of the PCH Runtime Services

Chapter 1

63 – 67 CPU DXE initialization is started

68 PCI host bridge initialization

69 System Agent DXE initialization is started

6A System Agent DXE SMM initialization is started

6B – 6F System Agent DXE initialization (System Agent module specic)

1-26

(continued on the next page)

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Code Description

70 PCH DXE initialization is started

71 PCH DXE SMM initialization is started

72 PCH devices initialization

73 – 77 PCH DXE Initialization (PCH module specic)

78 ACPI module initialization

79 CSM initialization

7A – 7F Reserved for future AMI DXE codes

90 Boot Device Selection (BDS) phase is started

91 Driver connecting is started

92 PCI Bus initialization is started

93 PCI Bus Hot Plug Controller Initialization

94 PCI Bus Enumeration

95 PCI Bus Request Resources

96 PCI Bus Assign Resources

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 USB Enable

9E – 9F Reserved for future AMI codes

A0 IDE initialization is started

A1 IDE Reset

A2 IDE Detect

A3 IDE Enable

A4 SCSI initialization is started

A5 SCSI Reset

A6 SCSI Detect

A7 SCSI Enable

A8 Setup Verifying Password

(continued on the next page)

Chapter 1

ASUS Z87-WS

1-27

Code Description

A9 Start of Setup

AA Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)

AB Setup Input Wait

AC Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)

AD Ready To Boot event

AE Legacy Boot event

AF Exit Boot Services event

B0 Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP Begin

B1 Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP End

B2 Legacy Option ROM Initialization

B3 System Reset

B4 USB hot plug

B5 PCI bus hot plug

B6 Clean-up of NVRAM

B7 Conguration Reset (reset of NVRAM settings)

B8– BF Reserved for future AMI codes

D0 CPU initialization error

D1 System Agent initialization error

D2 PCH initialization error

D3 Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available

D4 PCI resource allocation error. Out of Resources

D5 No Space for Legacy Option ROM

D6 No Console Output Devices are found

D7 No Console Input Devices are found

D8 Invalid password

D9 Error loading Boot Option (LoadImage returned error)

Chapter 1

DA Boot Option is failed (StartImage returned error)

DB Flash update is failed

DC Reset protocol is not available

1-28

Chapter 1: Product introduction

ACPI/ASL Checkpoints

Code Description

01 System is entering S1 sleep state

02 System is entering S2 sleep state

03 System is entering S3 sleep state

04 System is entering S4 sleep state

05 System is entering S5 sleep state

10 System is waking up from the S1 sleep state

20 System is waking up from the S2 sleep state

30 System is waking up from the S3 sleep state

40 System is waking up from the S4 sleep state

AC System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in PIC mode.

AA System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in APIC mode.

5. PWR_SUPPLY LED

The ASUS Dr. Power LED near the EATX PWR connector lights up when the ASUS Dr. Power switch setting is on Enable and the power supply unit has failed.

ASUS Z87-WS

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6. PGLED3 LED

The ASUS Dr. Power LED near the ASUS Dr. Power switch lights up when the ASUS Dr. Power switch is on Enable.

7. +12V_PWR LED

The ASUS Dr. Power LED near EATX12V connector lights up when the ASUS Dr. Power switch setting is on enable and there is no power detected going into the processor.

Chapter 1

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.8 Internal connectors

1. Intel® Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6 [yellow])

These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables.

If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10

conguration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z87

chipset.

• These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial

• Before creating a RAID set, refer to section

ASUS Z87-WS

ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID

Mode]. Refer to section 3.6.3 SATA Conguration for details.

5.1 RAID congurations or the manual

bundled in the motherboard support DVD.

Chapter 1

1-31

2. Marvell 9230 ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1234 [dark brown])

Z87-WS Marvell SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors

These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables.

• Marvell storage controller can only support AHCI mode.

• These SATA ports are for data drives only.

3. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

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The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

4. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)

This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.0 module for additional USB 3.0 front

or rear panel ports. With an installed USB 3.0 module, you can enjoy all the benets of

USB 3.0 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, faster charging time for

USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efciency, and backward compatibility with

USB 2.0.

• The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately.

• These connectors are based on xHCI specication. We recommend you to install the

related driver to fully use the USB 3.0 ports under Windows® 7.

• The plugged USB 3.0 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode depending on the operating system’s setting.

5. IEEE 1394 port connector (10-1 pin IE1394)

This connector is for an IEEE 1394 port. Connect the IEEE 1394 module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

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6. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112, USB1314; USB10)

These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system

chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specication that supports up to

480 MBps connection speed.

DO NOT connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard!

You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, dark brown)

rst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis

supports front panel USB ports.

Chapter 1

1-34

• The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

• These connectors are based on xHCI specication. We recommend you to install the

related driver to fully use the USB 2.0 ports under Windows® 7.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors

(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1~4)

Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

• DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air ow

inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors!

• Ensure that the CPU fan is securely installed to the CPU fan connector.

• The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.

• The CPU_FAN connector and CHA_FAN connectors support the ASUS FAN Xpert 2

ASUS Z87-WS

feature.

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8. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.

• We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-denition audio capability.

• If you want to connect a high-denition or an AC’97 front panel audio module to this

connector, set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD] or [AC97].

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

9. EATX power connectors

(24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V1, 8-pin EATX12V; 6-pin EATX12V_1)

These connectors are for ATX 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.

• For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version) and provides a

minimum power of 350 W.

• DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug. Otherwise, the system will not boot.

• We recommend you use an EATX12V power connector to increase power efciency

when you overclock the CPU.

• We recommend that you use a PSU with a higher power output when conguring a

system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

• If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.

• We recommend you connect an EATX 12V_1 cable to increase power efciency when

you plug in high-end PCI Express x16 cards.

• If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=enus

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10. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

• System power LED (2-pin PLED)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.

• Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin HDD_LED)

This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable

to this connector. The HDD LED lights up or ashes when data is read from or written

to the HDD.

• System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)

This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

• ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)

This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the operating system settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF.

• Reset button (2-pin RESET)

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power.

Chapter 1

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

11. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which securely

store keys, digital certicates, passwords and data. A TPM system also helps enhance

network security, protect digital identities, and ensures platform integrity.

12. Direct Connector (2-pin DRCT)

This connector is for the chassis-mounted button that supports the DirectKey function. Connect the button cable that supports DirectKey, from the chassis to this connector on the motherboard.

Ensure that your chassis comes with the extra button cable that supports the DirectKey feature. Refer to the technical documentation that came with the chassis for details.

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13. mSATA connector

This connector is for a single SATA 6.0Gb/s Solid-State Drive (SSD). Connect the SSD to the mSATA port.

14. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.

By default, the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the chassis intrusion detection feature.

Chapter 1

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 2: Basic installation

Basic installation

2.1 Building your PC system

2.1.1 Motherboard installation

The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps are the same for all models.

1. Install the ASUS I/O Shield to the chassis rear I/O panel.

2. Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to the chassis’ rear I/O panel.

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Chapter 2

2-1

3. Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

Chapter 2

2-2

DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1.2 CPU installation

Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA155 and LGA1156 socket on the LGA1150 socket.

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Chapter 2

2-3

2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation

Apply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before you install the heatsink and fan, if necessary.

To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

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Chapter 2

2-5

2.1.4 DIMM installation

To remove a DIMM

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1.5 ATX Power connection

ASUS Z87-WS

Chapter 2

2-7

2.1.6 SATA device connection

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1.7 Front I/O Connectors

HDD LED

POWER SW

RESET SW

HDD LED-

HDD LED+

PWR

Reset

Ground

HDD LED

To install ASUS Q-Connector

To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector

USB 2.0

To install USB 3.0 connector

ASUS Z87-WS

USB 3.0

AAFP

Chapter 2

2-9

2.1.8 Expansion Card installation

To install PCIe x16 cards

To install PCIe x1 cards

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.2 BIOS update utility

USB BIOS Flashback

USB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the existing BIOS or operating system. Simply insert a USB storage device to the USB port, press the USB BIOS Flashback button for three seconds, and the BIOS is updated automatically.

To use USB BIOS Flashback:

1. Place the bundled support DVD to the optical drive and install the USB BIOS

Flashback Wizard. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.

2. Insert the USB storage device to the USB Flashback port.

We recommend you use a USB 2.0 storage device to save the latest BIOS version for better compatibility and stability.

3. Launch the USB BIOS Flashback Wizard to automatically download the latest BIOS

version.

4. Press the BIOS Flashback button for three seconds until a ashing light appears, which

indicates that the BIOS Flashback function is enabled.

5. Wait until the light goes out, indicating that the BIOS updating process is completed.

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For more BIOS update utilities in BIOS setup, refer to the section 3.11 Updating BIOS in Chapter 3.

• Do not disconnect the USB ash drive or power off the system during the BIOS

updating process. Doing so will interrupt the BIOS updating process. In case the process is interrupted, follow the steps again to update the BIOS.

• If FLBK_LED ashes for ve seconds and turns into a stable light, this indicates that USB BIOS Flashback is not working properly due to an improper USB ash drive connection, a BIOS le name error, or an incompatible BIOS le format. If this

happens, restart the syetem.

• Updating the BIOS poses some risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the updating process and the system fails to reboot, please contact your local ASUS Service Center for assistance

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection

Rear panel connectors

1. PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port 7. Mini-Display Port

2. ASmedia® USB 3.0 ports, support ASUS USB 3.0 Boost.

3. Optical S/PDIF Out port 9. HDMI port

4. Intel® LAN (RJ-45) port* 10. BIOS Flashback button

5. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 11. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4

6. External SATA ports 12. Audio I/O ports**

8. Display Port

* and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs and audio port descriptions.

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Chapter 2

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• A plugged USB 3.0 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode, depending on the operating system’s setting.

• DO NOT insert a different connector to the external SATA port.

• We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for a faster and better performance from your USB 3.0 devices.

• USB 3.0 devices can be used for data storage only.

• Due to the design of the Intel USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller. Some legacy USB

devices must have updated rmware for better compatibility.

• Multi-VGA output supports up to three displays under a Windows two displays under BIOS, and one display under DOS.

• The Intel

display architecture design supports the following maximum supported pixel

clock rates (Pixel Clock = H total x V Total x Frame Rate (Screen refresh rate)):

- Mini DisplayPort: 533 MHz

- DVI-D: 165 MHz

- RGB: 180 MHz

- HDMI port: 300 MHz

8 series chipset, all USB devices connected to the

* LAN ports LED indications

Activity Link LED Speed LED

Status Description Status Description

Off

Orange

Orange (Blinking)

Orange (Blinking then steady)

No link Off 10 Mbps connection

Linked Orange 100 Mbps connection

Data activity Green 1 Gbps connection

Ready to wake up from S5 mode

OS environment,

ACT/LINK

LED

LAN port

SPEED

LED

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration

Port Headset

2-channel

Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In

Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In

Orange – – Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer

Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out

Gray – – – Side Speaker Out

4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

2.3.2 Audio I/O connections

Audio I/O ports

Connect to Headphone and Mic

Connect to Stereo Speakers

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Chapter 2

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Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers

Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers

Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers

When the DTS UltraPC II feature is enabled, ensure to connect the rear speaker to the gray port.

2.4 Starting up for the rst time

1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.

2. Ensure that all switches are off.

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.

5. Turn on the devices in the following order:

a. Monitor

b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)

c. System power

6. After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up. For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with the “green” standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up or change from orange to green after the system LED turns on.

The system then runs the power-on self tests (POST). While the tests are running, the

BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table) or additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance.

Chapter 2

ASUS Z87-WS

2-17

BIOS Beep Description

One short beep VGA detected

Quick boot set to disabled

No keyboard detected

One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated)

One continuous beep followed by three short beeps

One continuous beep followed by four short beeps

7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3.

No memory detected

No VGA detected

Hardware component failure

2.5 Turning off the computer

While the system is ON, press the power button for less than four seconds to put the system on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Press the power switch for more than four seconds to let the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting.

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS

The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unied Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI

architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-

only BIOS controls to enable a more exible and convenient mouse input. You can easily

navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as your operating system. The

term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specied.

BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage

device conguration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device conguration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In

normal circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure optimal performance. DO NOT change the default BIOS settings except in the following circumstances:

An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you to

• run the BIOS Setup.

You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or

• update.

Inappropriate BIOS settings may result to instability or boot failure. We strongly

recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service personnel.

When downloading or updating the BIOS le, rename it as Z87WS.CAP for this motherboard.

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Chapter 3

3-1

3.2 BIOS setup program

Use the BIOS Setup to update the BIOS or congure its parameters. The BIOS screen

includes navigation keys and brief onscreen help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program.

Entering BIOS at startup

To enter BIOS Setup at startup:

• Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>, POST continues with its routines.

Entering BIOS Setup after POST

To enter BIOS Setup after POST:

• Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously.

• Press the reset button on the system chassis.

• Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you

failed to enter BIOS Setup using the rst two options.

• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

• Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the mouse to control the BIOS setup program.

• If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey <F5>. See section 3.9 Exit Menu for details.

• If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches for information on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button.

• The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.

BIOS menu screen

The BIOS Setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode. You can change modes from the Exit menu or from the Exit/Advanced Mode screen.

Chapter 3

3-2

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. To access the Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode or press <F7> hot key for the advanced BIOS settings.

The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the

Setup Mode item in section 3.7 Boot menu for details.

Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage output, CPU/chassis/power fan speed

Displays the selected shortcut items

Selects the boot device priority

Displays the Advanced mode menus

Selects the display language of the BIOS setup program

Selects the boot

device priority

Displays the system properties of the selected mode on the right hand side

Exits the BIOS setup program without saving the changes, saves the changes and resets the system, or enters the Advanced Mode

Loads optimized default settings

• The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.

• The

ASUS Z87-WS

Boot Menu(F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the

system.

Chapter 3

3-3

3.2.2 Advanced Mode

The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to congure the BIOS settings. The gure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed congurations.

To access the Advanced Mode, click Exit, then select Advanced Mode or press F7 hotkey.

Back button

Menu bar

Menu items

Menu bar

The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:

Submenu item

Pop-up window

Conguration elds

Scroll bar

Navigation keys

General help

Last modied

settings

Quick note

My Favorites For saving the frequently-used system settings and conguration.

Chapter 3

Main For changing the basic system conguration

Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Monitor

Boot For changing the system boot conguration

Tool For conguring options for special functions Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

3-4

For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example,

selecting Main shows the Main menu items.

The other items (Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items.

Back button

This button appears when entering a submenu. Press <Esc> or use the USB mouse to click this button to return to the previous menu screen.

Submenu items

A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.

Pop-up window

Select a menu item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the conguration

options for that item.

Scroll bar

A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not t on

the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the other items on the screen.

Navigation keys

At the bottom right corner of the menu screen are the navigation keys for the BIOS setup program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.

If you delete all shortcut items from the F3: Shortcut list, the default shortcut items will reappear after your next startup.

General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. Use <F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removable storage device.

Conguration elds

These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-congurable, you can change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not user-congurable.

A congurable eld is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a eld, select it and

press <Enter> to display a list of options.

Quick Note button

This button allows you to enter notes of the activities that you have done in BIOS.

• The Quick Note function does not support the following keyboard functions: delete, cut, copy and paste.

• You can only use the alphanumeric characters to enter your notes.

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Last Modied button

This button shows the items that you last modied and saved in BIOS Setup.

3.3 My Favorites

MyFavorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items.

Adding items to My Favorites

To add frequently-used BIOS items to My Favorites:

1. Use the arrow keys to select an item that you want to add. When using a mouse, hover the pointer to the item.

2. Press <F4> on your keyboard or right-click on your mouse to add the item to My

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Favorites page.

You cannot add the following items to My Favorites:

• Items with submenu options

• User-congurable items such as language and boot device order

• Conguration items such as Memory SPD Information, system time and date

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.4 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.

Security

The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.

• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)

• The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default

ASUS Z87-WS

RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches for information on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button.

[Not

Installed]. After you set a password, these items show [Installed].

Chapter 3

3-7

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.

To set an administrator password:

1. Select the

2. From the

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the

2. From the <Enter>.

3. From the

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator

password, but press <Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear

the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press

Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.

User Password

If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.

To set a user password:

1. Select the

2. From the

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

Chapter 3

3-8

User Password item and press <Enter>.

Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

To change a user password:

1. Select the

2. From the <Enter>.

3. From the

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press

<Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear the password, the

User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

User Password item and press <Enter>.

Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press

Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.

3.5 Ai Tweaker menu

The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related items.

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect eld

values can cause the system to malfunction.

The conguration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you

installed on the motherboard.

Scroll down to display other BIOS items.

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Chapter 3

3-9

Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]

Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal

frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking conguration options:

[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Manual] Allows you to automatically optimize the CPU ratio and BCLK frequency.

[X.M.P.] Allows your system to automatically optimize the CPU ratio, BCLK

Filter PLL [Auto]

Allows you to select a BCLK (base clock) mode when running in a high or low BCLK.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Low BCLK Mode] [High BCLK Mode]

BCLK Frequency [100.0]

Allows you to set the BCLK/PEG frequency to enhance the system performance. Use

the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 80.0MHz to 300.0MHz.

eXtreme Memory Profile

Allows you to select the X.M.P. mode supported by your memory module.

Conguration options: [Prole #1] [Prole #2]

frequency, and memory parameters. If you install memory modules

supporting the eXtreme Memory Prole (X.M.P.) Technology, select this item to set the proles supported by your memory modules for optimizing

the system performance.

The following item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [Manual].

The following item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [X.M.P.].

ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Enabled]

[Enabled] Default set to [Enabled] for maximum performance under XMP/Manual/

[Disabled] Allows you to set to default core ratio settings.

User-dened memory frequency mode.

CPU Core Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU ratio and synchronize automatically either per core or all cores.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Sync All Cores] [Per Core]

Chapter 3

3-10

When the CPU Core Ratio is set to [Per Core], the following item appears:

1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 1-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 2-Core Ratio Limit.

2-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 2-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3-Core Ratio Limit.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

If you assign a value for 2-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit to [Auto].

3-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 3-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 4-Core Ratio Limit.

If you assign a value for 3-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit and 2-Core Ratio Limit to [Auto].

4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 4-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3-Core Ratio Limit.

If you assign a value for 4-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit, 2-Core Ratio Limit, and 3-Core Ratio to [Auto].

Min CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the minimum possible ratio on the Uncore part of the processor. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.

Max CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the maximum possible ratio on the Uncore part of the processor. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.

Internal PLL Overvoltage [Auto]

Allows you to enable the internal PLL Overvoltage for K-SKU CPUs to get the extreme overclocking capability.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]

CPU bus speed : DRAM speed ratio mode [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio mode.

[Auto] DRAM speed is set to the optimized settings.

[100:133] The CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio is set to 100:133.

[100:100] The CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio is set to 100:100.

Memory Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to set the memory operating frequency. The conguration options vary with the

BCLK/PCIE Frequency item settings.

CPU Graphics Max. Ratio [Auto]

[Auto] Allows you to automatically optimize the CPU Graphics Ratio depending on

the system loading.

[Manual] Allows you to set a value for an optimal CPU Grapics Ratio. Use the <+> or

<-> keys to adjust the CPU graphics ratio. The minimum value depends on the installed CPU.

Chapter 3

ASUS Z87-WS

3-11

OC Tuner [As Is]

OC Tuner automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of CPU and DRAM for enhancing the system performance and accelerates the iGPU performance to the extreme according to the integrated graphics loading.

Conguration options: [As Is] [Ratio First] [BCLK First]

EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DRAM Timing Control

The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key.

Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default settings.

Primary Timings

DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [63]

DRAM COMMAND Mode [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [3]

Secondary Timings

DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]

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3-12

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [511]

DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [65535]

DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [16]

DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [255]

DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

DRAM CKE Minimum pulse width [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

DRAM CAS# Write Latency [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

RTL IOL control

DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D0 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D1 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D0 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

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ASUS Z87-WS

3-13

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R1D0 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R1D1 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

Third Timings

tRDRD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [7]

tRDRD_dr [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tRDRD_dd [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tWRRD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [63]

tWRRD_dr [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tWRRD_dd [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tWRWR [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [7]

tWRWR_dr [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tWRWR_dd [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

Dec_WRD

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] – [1]

tRDWR [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

tRDWR_dr [Auto]

Chapter 3

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

tRDWR_dd [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

3-14

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

MISC

MRC Fast Boot [Auto]

Allows you to enable, disable or automatically set the MRC fast boot.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Enable] [Disable]

DRAM CLK Period [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [14]

Channel A/B DIMM Control [Enable Bot...]

Conguration options: [Enable Both DIMMS] [Disable DIMM0] [Disable DIMM1]

[Disable Both DIMMS]

Scrambler Setting [Optimized ...]

Allows you to set the optimized scrambler setting for stability. Conguration options: [Optimized (ASUS] [Default (MRC)]

DIGI+ Power Control

CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Load-line is dened by Intel® VRM specication and affects CPU power voltage. The

CPU working voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking performance, but increases the CPU and VRM thermal conditions. Select from Level 1 to Level 8 to adjust CPU power voltage from 0% to 100%.

The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specication.

DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto]

Frequency switching affects the VRM transient response and the thermal component conditions. Higher frequency gets quicker transient response.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]

DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to [Manual Mode]. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage Frequency to [Manual].

CPU Fixed Frequency [300]

This item allows you to set a xed CPU Voltage frequency. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 300kHz to 500kHz with a 50kHz interval.

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The following items appear only when you set the CPU Voltage Frequency to [Auto].

VRM Spread Spectrum [Disabled]

Enable the VRM Spread Spectrum to enhance system stability.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Active Frequency Mode [Disabled]

Enable the Active Frequency Mode for an enhanced power saving condition.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU Power Phase Control [Auto]

Allows you to set the power phase control of the CPU.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Standard] [Optimized] [Extreme] [Manual Adjustment]

DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to [Extreme] and [Manual Adjustment]. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Power Phase Control to [Manual Adjustment].

Manual Adjustment [Fast]

Allows you to set a faster phase response for the CPU to increase system performance or to slower phase response to decrease DRAM power

efciency.

Conguration options: [Ultra Fast] [Fast] [Medium] [Regular]

CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]

DIGI + VRM Duty Control adjusts the current of every VRM phase and the thermal conditions of every phase component. [T. Probe] Select to maintain the VRM thermal balance. [Extreme] Select to maintain the current VRM balance.

CPU Current Capability [Auto]

DIGI+ VRM CPU Current Capability provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher value setting gets higher VRM power consumption delivery and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.

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3-16

Conguration options: [Auto] [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]

DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

Choose a higher value when overclocking, or under a high CPU loading for extra power support.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

CPU Power Thermal Control [130]

A higher temperature brings a wider CPU power thermal range and extends the overclocking tolerance to enlarge the O.C. potential. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.

DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

DRAM Current Capability [100%]

A higher value brings a wider total power range, and extends the overclocking range simultaneously.

Conguration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]

DRAM Voltage Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a xed high DRAM

frequency to increase the O.C. range, or a low DRAM frequency for a better system stability.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]

The following item appears only when you set set the DRAM Frequency Mode item to

[Manual].

DRAM Fixed Frequency Mode [300]

Allows you to set a xed DRAM frequency to increase the overclocking

range or a low DRAM frequency for better system stability. Use the <+> or

<-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 300kHz to 500kHz with a 50kHz interval.

DRAM Power Phase Control [Auto]

[Auto] Allows you to set the Auto mode.

[Optimized] Allows you to set the ASUS optimized phase tuning prole.

[Extreme] Allows you to set the full phase mode.

CPU Power Management

The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and their features.

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Allows the operating system to dynamically adjust the processor voltage and cores frequency, resulting to a decreased average power consumption and decreased average heat production.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

Allows you to enable your core processor’s speed to run faster than the base operating

frequency when it is below operating power, current and temperature specication limit. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following items appear only when you set the Turbo Mode to [Enabled].

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Turbo Mode Parameters

Long Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Allows you to limit the Turbo Ratio’s time duration that exceeds the TDP (Thermal Design Power) for maximum performance. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1W t0 4096W.

Package Power Time Window [Auto]

Also known as Power Limit 1, and allows you to maintain the time window for Turbo Ratio over TDP (Thermal Design Power). Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1 to 127 in seconds.

Short Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Also known as Power Limit 2, and allows you to provide rapid protection when the package power exceeds the Power Limit 1. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1W t0 4096W.

CPU Integrated VR Current Limit [Auto]

Allows you to set a higher current limit to prevent frequency and power throttling when overclocking. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.125 to 1023.875 with a 0.125 interval.

CPU Internal Power Switching Frequency

Frequency Tuning Mode [Auto]

Allows you to increase or decrease the switching frequency of the internal regulator. Decrease to help consume less power or increase to help votlage stability. When this item is set to [+] or [-], the Frequency Tuning Offset appears and allows you to set its value from 0% to 6%.

CPU Internal Power Fault Control

Thermal Feedback [Auto]

Allows your system to take precautionary actions to be taken by the CPU when the thermal conditions of the external regulator exceeds the threshold.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU Integrated VR Fault Management [Auto]

Disable this item to prevent tripping the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator when doing over-voltage. We recommend you to disable this item when overclocking.

Conguration options: [Auto] [High Performance] [Balanced]

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CPU Internal Power Configuration

CPU Integrated VR Efficiency Management [Auto]

Allows you to improve power saving when the processor is in low power state. Disable to make the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator work in high performance at all times.

Conguration options: [Auto] [High Performance] [Balanced]

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Power Decay Mode [Auto]

Allows your system to improve the power saving mode on the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator as the processor goes into low current state.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

Idle Power-in Response [Auto]

Allows you to set the slew rate for the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator as it enters manual override mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Fast]

Idle Power-out Response [Auto]

Allows you to set the slew rate for the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator as it exits manual override mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Fast]

Power Current Slope [Auto]

Allows you to set the gradient of the high-speed active phase current balance during load transients to eliminate current imbalance that can result from a load current oscillating near the switching frequency.

Conguration options: [Auto] [LEVEL -4] - [LEVEL 4]

Power Current Offset [Auto]

Allows you to increase or decrease the output current sensed by the CPU. It nds the

balance between optimal regulating while staying below the current threshold.

Conguration options: [Auto] [100%] [87.5%] [75.0%] [62.5%] [50.0%] [37.5%] [25.0%]

[12.5%] [0%] [-12.5%] [-25.0%] [-37.5%] [-50.0%] [-62.5%] [-75.0%] [-87.5%] [-100%]

Power Fast Ramp Response [Auto]

Allows you to increase to enhance the response of the voltage regulator during the load transient.

Conguration options: [Auto] [0.00] - [1.50]

CPU Internal Power Saving Control

Power Saving Level 1 Threshold [Auto]

Lower value provides sufcient overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking

potential. Higher value provides better power-saving condition.Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from 0A to 80A at 1Amp increment.

Power Saving Level 2 Threshold [Auto]

Lower value provides sufcient overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking

potential. Higher value provides better power-saving condition.Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from 0A to 50A at 1Amp increment.

Power Saving Level 3 Threshold [Auto]

Lower value provides sufcient overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking

potential. Higher value provides better power-saving condition.Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from 0A to 30A at 1Amp increment.

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Extreme OV [Disabled]

Default set to DIsabled and help to protect CPU not been burned by Over Voltage. When set to Enabled, you might choose high level voltage to overclock, but not guaranteed CPU life.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU Core Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the cores of the processor. Increase the

amount of voltage when increasing core frequency.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode] [Adaptive Mode]

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Manual].

CPU Core Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU Core Voltage override. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value, The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Offset Mode] or

[Adaptive Mode].

Offset Mode Sign [+]

[+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.

[–] To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU Core Voltage Offset

Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Adaptive Mode].

CPU Cache Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the uncore of the processor including its

cache. Increase the voltage when increasing Ring frequency.

Chapter 3

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode]

CPU Cache Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU Cache Voltage override. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value, The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

3-20

Additional Turbo Mode CPU Core Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to add voltage for Turbo Mode CPU core. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a

0.001V interval.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Cache Voltage to [Manual Mode].

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Offset Mode].

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Offset Mode Sign [+]

[+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.

[–] To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU Cache Voltage Offset

Allows you to set the CPU cache voltage offset. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the onboard graphics unit on the

processor. Increase the amount of voltage when increasing iGPU frequency.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode] [Adaptive Mode]

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Manual].

CPU Graphics Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU Graphics Voltage override. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value, The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Offset Mode] or

[Adaptive Mode].

Offset Mode Sign [+]

[+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.

[–] To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU Graphics Voltage Offset

Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Adaptive Mode].

Additional Turbo Mode CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to add voltage for Turbo Mode CPU Graphics. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to

1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU System Agent Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+]

[+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.

[–] To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU System Agent Voltage Offset [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the system agent of the processor

including its PCIe controller and power control unit. Increase the amount of voltage when increasing DRAM frequency. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

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CPU Analog I/O Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+]

[+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.

[–] To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU Analog I/O Voltage Offset [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the analog portion of the I/O on

the processor. Increase the amount of voltage when increasing DRAM frequency. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU Digital I/O Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+]

[+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.

[–] To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU Digital I/O Voltage Offset [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the digital portion of the I/O on the

processor. Increase the amount of voltage when increasing DRAM frequency. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a

0.001V interval.

SVID Support [Auto]

When overclocking, set this item to [Enabled]. Disabling this item would stop the processor from communicating with the external voltage regulator.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

SVID Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the SVID Voltage override. By default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 2.440V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU Input Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set an input voltage for the processor by the external voltage regulator. By default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800V to 3.040V with a 0.010V interval.

DRAM Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value.

Chapter 3

The values range from 1.20V to 1.92V with a 0.005V interval.

The following item appears only when you set SVID Support to [Enabled].

According to Intel® CPU specications, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may damage the CPU permanently. We recommend that you install the DIMMs with the voltage requirement below 1.65V.

PCH VLX Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the voltage for the I/O on the PCH. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1.2000V to 2.0000V with a 0.0125V interval.

3-22

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

PCH Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the Core voltage for the PCH (Platform Controller Hub). You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.70V to 1.50V with a 0.0125V interval.

• The values of the CPU PLL Voltage, CPU Manual Voltage, CPU Offset Voltage, iGPU Manual Voltage, iGPU Offset Voltage, DRAM Voltage, VCCSA Voltage, VCCIO Voltage, and PCH Voltage items are labeled in different color, indicating the risk levels of high voltage settings.

• The system may need better cooling system for a more stable performance under high voltage settings.

VTTDDR Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the termination voltage for the system memory. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.6000V to 1.0000V with a 0.0125V interval.

DRAM CTRL REF Voltage [Auto]

This item is the DRAM reference voltage for the control lines from the memory bus. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a

0.0050x interval.

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/CHB [Auto]

This item is the DRAM reference voltage for the data lines on Channels A and B. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.395x to 0.630x with a

0.005x interval.

Clock Crossing VBoot [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing voltage boot when the rising edge of the BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.00625V interval.

Clock Crossing Reset Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing reset voltage when the rising edge of the BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.10625V interval.

Clock Crossing Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing voltage when the rising edge of the BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.10625V interval.

CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]

[Auto] Automatic conguration.

[Disabled] Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.

[Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.

Chapter 3

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3.6 Advanced menu

The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices.

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect eld values

can cause the system to malfunction.

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.6.1 CPU Conguration

The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects.

The items in this menu may vary based on the CPU installed.

Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down.

[Disabled] Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.

Hyper-threading [Enabled]

The Intel Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two threads or processes simultaneously.

[Enabled] Two threads per activated core are enabled.

[Disabled] Only one thread per activated core is enabled.

This Item apears only if you installed a CPU that supports the Intel Hyper-threading technology.

Active Processor Cores [All]

Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.

Conguration options: [All] [1] [2] [3]

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Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]

[Enabled] Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.

[Disabled] Forces the XD feature ag to always return to zero (0).

Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]

[Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]

[Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to automatically analyze the requirements and

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]

[Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to perform adjacent cache line prefetching.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Boot performance mode [Max Non-Turbo Performance]

Allows you to select the boot performance before entering the OS.

Conguration options: [Max Non-Turbo Performance] [Max Battery] [Turbo Performance]

Dynamic Storage Accelerator [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable Dynamic Storage Accelerator for C state conguration.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

CPU Power Management Conguration

This item allows you to manage and congure the CPU’s power.

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Allows your system to adjust the processor’s voltage and cores frequency, resulting in decreased power consumption and heat production.

Chapter 3

[Disabled] The CPU runs at its default speed.

[Enabled] The system controls the CPU speed.

with extended CPUID functions.

and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several systems.

prefetch data and codes for the CPU.

3-26

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

ASUS Z87C, 90SB0390M0AAY0, Z87-WS User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Safety information

About this guide

Package contents

Installation tools and components

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.1 Special features

1.1.1 Product highlights

1.1.2 ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features

1.1.3 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization

1.1.4 ASUS Exclusive Features

1.1.5 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

1.1.6 ASUS EZ DIY

1.1.7 Other special features

1.2 Motherboard overview

1.2.1 Before you proceed

1.2.2 Motherboard layout

1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

1.2.4 System memory

1.2.5 Expansion slots

1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches

1.2.7 Onboard LEDs

1.2.8 Internal connectors

Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1 Building your PC system

2.1.1 Motherboard installation

2.1.2 CPU installation

2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation

2.1.4 DIMM installation

2.1.5 ATX Power connection

2.1.6 SATA device connection

2.1.7 Front I/O Connectors

2.1.8 Expansion Card installation

2.2 BIOS update utility

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection

2.3.2 Audio I/O connections

2.5 Turning off the computer

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS

3.2 BIOS setup program

3.2.1 EZ Mode

3.2.2 Advanced Mode

3.3 My Favorites

3.4 Main menu

3.5 Ai Tweaker menu

3.6 Advanced menu