Asus Crosshair V Formula User Manual

Crosshair V

Formula Series

Motherboard

E6693

Second Edition
July 2011

Copyright © 2011 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any
means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written
permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the

product is defaced or missing.

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY
DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,
AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO
RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS
MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or

copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identication or explanation and to the
owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

ii

Contents

Notices ........................................................................................................ vii

FCC Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Caution Statement .............. vii

Declaration of Conformity (R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC) ................ viii

CE Marking ..................................................................................... viii

Wireless Operation Channel for Different Domains ..........................ix

France Restricted Wireless Frequency Bands ..................................ix

IC Radiation Exposure Statement for Canada ...................................x

Safety information ...................................................................................... xi

About this guide ....................................................................................... xiii

Crosshair V Formula specications summary ....................................... xv

ROG ThunderBolt specications summary ......................................... xviii

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2

1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2

1.3.2 ROG ThunderBolt LAN/Audio Combo ........................... 1-3

1.3.3 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features ... 1-4

1.3.4 ASUS special features .................................................... 1-7

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-2

2.2.1 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 2-2

2.2.2 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-3

2.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ....................................... 2-4

2.2.4 System memory .............................................................. 2-5

2.2.5 Expansion slots ............................................................. 2-12

2.2.6 Onboard LEDs .............................................................. 2-15

2.2.7 Jumpers ........................................................................ 2-19

2.2.8 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-20

2.2.9 Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-29

2.2.10 ProbeIt .......................................................................... 2-32

2.3 Building your computer system ............................................... 2-33

2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system 2-33

iii

Contents

2.3.2 CPU installation ............................................................ 2-34

2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ................. 2-35

2.3.4 DIMM installation .......................................................... 2-38

2.3.5 Motherboard installation ................................................ 2-39

2.3.6 ATX Power connection .................................................. 2-41

2.3.7 SATA device connection ................................................ 2-42

2.3.8 Front I/O Connector ...................................................... 2-43

2.3.9 Expension Card installation .......................................... 2-44

2.3.10 ROG ThunderBolt Installation ....................................... 2-45

2.3.11 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-47

2.3.12 Audio I/O connections ................................................... 2-48

2.4 Starting up for the rst time ...................................................... 2-51

2.5 Turning off the computer ........................................................... 2-52

2.5.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................. 2-52

2.5.2 Using the dual function power switch ............................ 2-52

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

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

3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-1

3.2.1 EZ Mode ......................................................................... 3-2

3.2.2 Advanced Mode .............................................................. 3-3

3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu ............................................................... 3-5

3.4 Main menu .................................................................................. 3-12

3.4.1 System Language [English] .......................................... 3-12

3.4.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] ....................................... 3-12

3.4.3 System Time [xx:xx:xx] ................................................. 3-12

3.4.4 Security ......................................................................... 3-13

3.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-15

3.5.1 CPU Conguration ........................................................ 3-16

3.5.2 North Bridge Conguration ........................................... 3-17

3.5.3 SATA Conguration ....................................................... 3-18

3.5.4 USB Conguration ........................................................ 3-20

3.5.5 CPU Core On/ Off Function .......................................... 3-22

3.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguration .................................... 3-23

3.5.7 APM .............................................................................. 3-25

3.5.8 iROG Conguration ....................................................... 3-26

iv

Contents

3.5.9 ROG Connect ............................................................... 3-26

3.5.10 LED Control .................................................................. 3-27

3.6 Monitor menu ............................................................................. 3-29

3.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-33

3.8 Tools menu ................................................................................. 3-35

3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ................................................ 3-35

3.8.2 ASUS SPD Information ................................................. 3-35

3.8.3 ASUS O.C. Prole ......................................................... 3-36

3.8.4 GO Button File .............................................................. 3-37

3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 3-38

3.10 Updating BIOS ............................................................................ 3-39

3.10.1 ASUS Update utility ...................................................... 3-40

3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ................................................ 3-43

3.10.3 ASUS BIOS Updater ..................................................... 3-45

Chapter 4: Software support

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

4.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 4-1

4.2.1 Running the support DVD ............................................... 4-1

4.2.2 Drivers menu ................................................................... 4-2

4.2.3 Utilities menu .................................................................. 4-3

4.2.4 Make disk menu .............................................................. 4-4

4.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 4-4

4.2.6 Video menu ..................................................................... 4-5

4.2.7 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 4-5

4.2.8 Other information ............................................................ 4-6

4.3 Software information ................................................................... 4-8

4.3.1 ASUS AI Suite II .............................................................. 4-8

4.3.2 Tool ................................................................................. 4-9

4.3.3 DIGI+ VRM .................................................................... 4-14

4.3.4 EPU ............................................................................... 4-18

4.3.5 FAN Xpert ..................................................................... 4-19

4.3.6 Probe II ......................................................................... 4-20

4.3.7 Sensor Recorder ........................................................... 4-22

4.3.8 ROG Connect ............................................................... 4-25

4.3.9 ROG ThunderBolt LAN ................................................. 4-28

v

Contents

4.3.10 ThunderBolt Audio ........................................................ 4-31

4.3.11 Sound Blaster X-Fi MB 2 ............................................. 4-35

4.4 RAID congurations .................................................................. 4-38

4.4.1 RAID denitions ............................................................ 4-38

4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks ..................................... 4-39

4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ...................................... 4-39

4.4.4 AMD® Option ROM Utility .............................................. 4-40

4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 4-43

4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .... 4-43

4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®...................... 4-43

4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows®

OS installation ............................................................... 4-44

4.5.4 Using a USB oppy disk drive ....................................... 4-45

Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support

5.1 ATI® CrossFireX™ technology .................................................... 5-1

5.1.1 Requirements .................................................................. 5-1

5.1.2 Before you begin ............................................................. 5-1

5.1.3 Installing CrossFireX graphics cards .............................. 5-2

5.1.4 Installing the device drivers ............................................. 5-3

5.1.5 Enabling the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology ................... 5-3

5.2 NVIDIA® SLI™ technology ........................................................... 5-5

5.2.1 Requirements .................................................................. 5-5

5.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards .......................... 5-5

5.2.3 Installing the device drivers ............................................. 5-6

5.2.4 Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology ......................... 5-6

vi

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received including interference that
may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is

required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications

to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

FCC Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Caution Statement

Any changes or modications not expressly approved by the party responsible

for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. “The
manufacture declares that this device is limited to Channels 1 through 11 in the

2.4GHz frequency by specied rmware controlled in the USA.”

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an
uncontrolled environment. To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure
compliance requirements, please avoid direct contact to the transmitting antenna

during transmitting. End users must follow the specic operating instructions for

satisfying RF exposure compliance.

vii

RF exposure warning

This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with provided
instructions and the antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to
provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not
be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
End-users and installers must be provide with antenna installation instructions and
transmitter operating conditions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.

Declaration of Conformity (R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC)

The following items were completed and are considered relevant and sufcient:

• Essential requirements as in [Article 3]

• Protection requirements for health and safety as in [Article 3.1a]

• Testing for electric safety according to [EN 60950]

• Protection requirements for electromagnetic compatibility in [Article 3.1b]

• Testing for electromagnetic compatibility in [EN 301 489-1] & [EN 301 489-17]

• Effective use of the radio spectrum as in [Article 3.2]

• Radio test suites according to [EN 300 328-2]

CE Marking

CE marking for devices without wireless LAN/Bluetooth

The shipped version of this device complies with the requirements of the EEC
directives 2004/108/EC “Electromagnetic compatibility” and 2006/95/EC “Low
voltage directive”.

CE marking for devices with wireless LAN/ Bluetooth

This equipment complies with the requirements of Directive 1999/5/EC of the
European Parliament and Commission from 9 March, 1999 governing Radio and
Telecommunications Equipment and mutual recognition of conformity.

viii

Wireless Operation Channel for Different Domains

N. America 2.412-2.462 GHz Ch01 through CH11

Japan 2.412-2.484 GHz Ch01 through Ch14

Europe ETSI 2.412-2.472 GHz Ch01 through Ch13

France Restricted Wireless Frequency Bands

Some areas of France have a restricted frequency band. The worst case maximum

authorized power indoors are:

• 10mW for the entire 2.4 GHz band (2400 MHz–2483.5 MHz)

• 100mW for frequencies between 2446.5 MHz and 2483.5 MHz

Channels 10 through 13 inclusive operate in the band 2446.6 MHz to 2483.5
MHz.

There are few possibilities for outdoor use: On private property or on the private

property of public persons, use is subject to a preliminary authorization procedure
by the Ministry of Defense, with maximum authorized power of 100mW in the

2446.5–2483.5 MHz band. Use outdoors on public property is not permitted.

In the departments listed below, for the entire 2.4 GHz band:

• Maximum authorized power indoors is 100mW

• Maximum authorized power outdoors is 10mW

Departments in which the use of the 2400–2483.5 MHz band is permitted with an

EIRP of less than 100mW indoors and less than 10mW outdoors:

01 Ain 02 Aisne 03 Allier 05 Hautes Alpes

08 Ardennes 09 Ariège 11 Aude 12 Aveyron
16 Charente 24 Dordogne 25 Doubs 26 Drôme
32 Gers 36 Indre 37 Indre et Loire 41 Loir et Cher
45 Loiret 50 Manche 55 Meuse 58 Nièvre
59 Nord 60 Oise 61 Orne 63 Puy du Dôme
64 Pyrénées Atlantique 66 Pyrénées Orientales
67 Bas Rhin 68 Haut Rhin 70 Haute Saône 71 Saône et Loire
75 Paris 82 Tarn et Garonne 84 Vaucluse
88 Vosges 89 Yonne 90 Territoire de Belfort
94 Val de Marne

This requirement is likely to change over time, allowing you to use your wireless
LAN card in more areas within France. Please check with ART for the latest
information (www.art-telecom.fr)

Your WLAN Card transmits less than 100mW, but more than 10mW.

ix

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the
Canadian Department of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe [B] est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du
Canada.

IC Radiation Exposure Statement for Canada

This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an
uncontrolled environment. To maintain compliance with IC RF exposure
compliance requirements, please avoid direct contact to the transmitting antenna

during transmitting. End users must follow the specic operating instructions for

satisfying RF exposure compliance.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• This device may not cause interference and

• This device must accept any interference, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.

To prevent radio interference to the licensed service (i.e. co-channel Mobile
Satellite systems) this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from
windows to provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is
installed outdoors is subject to licensing.

The user is cautioned that this device should be used only as specied within

this manual to meet RF exposure requirements. Use of this device in a manner
inconsistent with this manual could lead to excessive RF exposure conditions.

This device and its antenna(s) must not be co-located or operating in conjunction
with any other antenna or transmitter.

Country Code selection feature to be disabled for products marketed to the US/
CANADA.

x

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.

• The optical S/PDIF is an optional component (may or may not be included in

your motherboard) and is dened as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT.

INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION, AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.

• Never dispose of the battery in re. It could explode and release harmful

substances into the environment.

• Never dispose of the battery with your regular household waste. Take it to a

hazardous material collection point.

• Never replace the battery with an incorrect battery type.

• RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT
TYPE.

• DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE ABOVE
BATTERY-RELATED INSTRUCTIONS.

xi

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.

This motherboard should only be used in environments with ambient
temperatures between 5ºC (41ºF) and 40ºC (104ºF).

• Place the product on a stable surface.

• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualied

service technician or your retailer.

DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been
designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the
crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical and electronic
equipment) should not be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for
disposal of electronic products.

DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste.
This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not
be placed in municipal waste.

xii

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.

• Chapter 2: Hardware information

This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It includes description of the switches,
jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.

• Chapter 3: BIOS setup

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

• Chapter 4: Software support

This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.

• Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support

This chapter describes how to install and congure multiple ATI®

CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.

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.

xiii

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 Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

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

means that you must press the enclosed key.

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

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

key names are linked with a plus sign (+).

Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>

Command Means that you must type the command exactly as

shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed
in brackets.

Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:

afudos /iC5F.ROM

xiv

Crosshair V Formula specications summary

CPU AMD socket for AM3+ FX™/Phenom™ II/Athlon™ II/

Chipset AMD® 990FX / SB950

System Bus Up to 5200 MT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0

Memory Dual channel memory architecture

Expansion Slots 3 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slots (dual @ x16; x16 x8 x8)

Multi-GPU Technology Supports 3-Way NVIDIA® SLI™ / AMD CrossFireX™

Storage SB950 South Bridge:

LAN Intel® Ethernet Gigabit LAN

High Denition Audio SupremeFX X-Fi 2 built-in 8-channel High Denition

Sempron™ 100 Series Processors
Supports 32nm CPU, up to 8 cores
AMD Cool 'n' Quiet™ Technology
AMD 140W CPU Support

4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 2133(O.C.)/2000(O.

C.)/1800(O.C.)/1600/1333/1066 MHz, ECC and non-

ECC, un-buffered memory
*Refer to www.asus.com or user manual for the Memory
QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists)
**Due to OS limitation, when installing total memory
of 4GB capacity or more, Windowsof 4GB capacity or more, Windows® 32-bit operation
system may only recognize less than 3GB. Hence, asystem may only recognize less than 3GB. Hence, a
total installed memory of less than 3GB istotal installed memory of less than 3GB is
recommended.recommended.

1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 (x4 speed)
1 x PCIe 2.0 x1
1 x PCI 2.2

Technology

- 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, red
ASMedia® controllers:

- 1 x SATA 6Gb/s port, red

- 1 x eSATA 6Gb/s port, red

Audio CODEC

- EAX® Advanced™ HD 5.0

- THX® TruStudio PRO™

- X-Fi® Xtreme Fidelity™

- Creative® ALchemy

- Supports Blu-ray audio layer content protection

- Supports 1 Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O

- Supports Jack-sensing, Multi-streaming, Front
Panel Jack-Retasking

(continued on the next page)

xv

Crosshair V Formula specications summary

USB ASMedia® USB 3.0 controller

ROG Exclusive
Overclocking Features

Other Special Features Core Unlocker

BIOS Features 32Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM

Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE

Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Combo port

- 6 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (4 at back I/O ; 2 at mid-

board)

AMD® SB950 chipset

- 12 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (8 ports at back I/O,
black+white, 4 ports at mid-board)

ROG Connect

- RC Poster

- RC Remote

- RC Diagram

- GPU TweakIt

GPU.DIMM Post
BIOS Print
GameFirst
Extreme Tweaker
ROG Extreme Engine Digi+

- 8+2 phase CPU power design

CPU Level Up
MemOK!
Intelligent overclocking tools:

- ASUS TPU

- O.C. Prole

Overclocking Protection:

- COP EX (Component Overheat Protection - EX)

- Voltiminder LED

- ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)

ASUS Fan Xpert
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q- LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LEDs)
Ai Charger+
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS MyLogo 3

BIOS 2.5, ACPI2.0a Multi-Language BIOS

1 x External SATA port
1 x LAN (RJ45) port
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports
8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (1 port can be switched to ROG
Connect)
1 x S/PDIF Out (Optical)
8-channel Audio I/O
1 x Clr CMOS switch

(continued on the next page)

xvi

Crosshair V Formula specications summary

Internal I/O Connectors 1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB

Software Drivers

Form Factor ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5cm x 24.4cm)

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

3.0/2.0 ports
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB

2.0/1.1 ports
7 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (Red)
8 x Fan connectors: 2 x CPU / 3 x Chassis / 3x Optional
8 x ProbeIt measurement points
3 x Thermal sensor connectors
1 x SPDIF_out connector
1 x 24-pin ATX power connector
1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
1 x EZ Plug connector (4-pin Molex Power connector)
1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS header
1 x CPU Level Up button
1 x ROG Connect switch
1 x START (Power on) button
1 x RESET button
1 x Go button
1 x Audio front panel (AAFP) header
1 x System panel connector

Sound Blaster® X-Fi 2 Utility
Kaspersky® Anti-Virus
DAEMON Tools Pro Standard
ROG CPU-Z
ASUS Utilities

xvii

ROG ThunderBolt specications summary

ThunderBolt LAN/
Audio Combo Card

*ROG ThunderBolt is only available on selected models.

Dedicated Network Processing Unit (NPU)

- Advanced Game Detect™

- Visual Bandwidth Control™

- Application Blocking

- Online Gaming PC Monitor™

- Bandwidth Tester

- Game Networking DNA™
Built-in 2-Channel High Quality DAC/ADC

- Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-Weighted): 116dB

- Output THD+N at 1KHz: 105dB

- C-Media 6631 audio processor (Max. 192KHz/24-bit)

- TI 6120A2 high delity headphone amplier

- Digital-to-Analog Converter: 120dB (Max. 192kHz/ 24-bit)

- Analog-to-Digital Converter: 114dB (Max. 192KHz/24-bit)

- Supports 3 Headphone Impedance Gain Modes (up to 300
ohms)

- Fine-tuned Game Genre EQ Proles

- Xear™ Surround Headphone

- Xear™ SingFX

- Equalizer, Environment Effects, FlexBass, Smart Volume,

Virtual Speaker Shifter

- DS3D GX 1.0 OpenAL

- Front-panel audio connector (AAFP)

- Line-in, Line out, Optical S/PDIF out ports

- USB 2.0 Interface

xviii

This chapter describes the motherboard
features and the new technologies
it supports.

Chapter 1: Product

1

introduction

Chapter summary

1

1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2

ROG Crosshair V Formula

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ROG Crosshair V Formula motherboard!

The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!

Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the
items in your package with the list below.

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard ROG Crosshair V Formula

Card *ROG ThunderBolt

Cables 1 x ROG Connect cable

1 x CrossFire Cable
1 x SLI Cable
3 x 2-in-1 SATA 6G cables
*1 x USB to USB cable for ThunderBolt

Accessories 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit

1 x 3-Way SLI Bridge
1 x Cable Ties Pack
1 x ROG Theme Label
1 x 12-in-1 ROG SATA Cable Label
1 x I/O Shield

Application DVD ROG motherboard support DVD

Documentation User guide

*ROG ThunderBolt Audio Precision Test Report

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

*The ThunderBolt is only available on selected models.

ROG Crosshair V Formula

1-1

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

Republic of Gamers

The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We offer the best
hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we
welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are
only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything. We believe in making
statements and we excel in competitions. If your character matches our trait, then
join the elite club, make your presence felt, in the Republic of Gamers.

FX™/Phenom™ II/Athlon™ II/ Sempron™ 100 Series Processors

(AM3+ CPU)

This motherboard supports latest AMD® Socket AM3+ multi-core processors
with up to 8-core native CPU cores and delivers better overclocking capabilities
with less power consumption. It features AMD Turbo CORE Technology 2.0 and
accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperTransport™ 3.0 based
system bus. This motherboard also supports AMD® CPUs in the new 32nm
manufacturing process.

AMD 990FX Chipset

AMD 990FX Chipset is designed to support up to 5.2GT/s HyperTransport™

3.0 (HT 3.0) interface speed and dual PCI Express™ 2.0 x16 graphics. It is

optimized with AMD latest AM3+ and multi-core CPUs to provide excellent system

performance and overclocking capabilities.

DDR3 2133(O.C.) Support

This motherboard supports DDR3 2133(O.C.) that provides faster data transfer

rate and more bandwith to increase memory computing efciency, enhancing

system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications.

Refer to www.asus.com for the supported CPU models.

1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

SLI/CrossFireX On-Demand

Why choose when you can have both?

SLI or CrossFireX? Fret no longer because with the ROG Crosshair V Formula,
you'll be able to run both multi-GPU setups. The board features SLI/CrossFireX

on Demand technology, supporting SLI or CrossFireX conguration. Whichever

path you take, you can be assured of jaw-dropping graphics at a level previously
unseen.

PCIe 2.0

Double Speed; Double Bandwidth

This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 devices for double speed and
bandwidth which enhances system performance.

1.3.2 ROG ThunderBolt LAN/Audio Combo

Built-in Headphone Amp.

Sound GREATER

The ROG ThunderBolt is a dedicated LAN/audio combo card designed for gamers.
With the ROG ThunderBolt's high sound quality and built-in amp, gamers can
discover the enemy's position much easier and react earlier, making it just like

another weapon in a gamer's arsenal! With ne-tuned background sound effects

for popular game types and Xear 3D Surround tech, ROG ThunderBolt lets you
hear better and win easier!

Dedicated NPU

Play FASTER

Even with a high-end CPU and GPU, FPS and MMORPGs can still become
a laggy mess if the LAN performance sucks. Gamers yearn to keep gaming
framerates solid. The ROG ThunderBolt has been designed from continual
feedback from the PC gaming community. By enhancing the 2 key factors (Speed
and Sound) that dominate your gaming experience, the advanced integration of the
LAN/Audio combo ThunderBolt offers higher throughput and decreased latency is
about to bring the best in-game experience to you!

Note: Network Processing Unit (NPU)

ROG ThunderBolt is only available on selected models.

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1-3

1.3.3 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features

Extreme Engine Digi+

Powerful combination of analog and digital design elements

Extreme Engine Digi+ equipped with high performance digital VRM design can
easily achieve the ultimate performance with adjustable CPU PWM frequency. It
expedites heat dissipation and achieves better electric conduction keeping critical
components reliable. Now you'll be able to push your spanking new CPU to the
limit, hitting benchmark scores that others only dream of. Extreme Engine Digi+
balances the need for voltage and the desire for rock solid performance to bring
the ultimate user experience.

ROG Connect

Plug and Overclock - Tweak it the hardcore way!

Monitor the status of your desktop PC and tweak its parameters in real-time via a
notebook—just like a race car engineer—with ROG Connect. ROG Connect links
your main system to a notebook through a USB cable, allowing you to view real­time POST code and hardware status readouts on your notebook, as well as make

on-the-y parameter adjustments at a purely hardware level. Diagram, power, reset
button, ash BIOS through notebook. Refer to page 2-29 for details.

GameFirst

The speed you need to pwn

Low Internet latency allows you to frag more, and get fragged less. That's why

ROG has introduced GameFirst, a feature that manages the ow of trafc

according to your needs so that you can still listen to online music, download and

upload les, and engage in Internet chats without sacricing the low ping times you

need to pwn your opponents.

iROG

Intelligent multiple control at hand

The iROG is a special IC which enables several ROG highlighted functions that
gives users full disposal of the motherboard at any stage! This design allows
advanced user control and management to be processed purely at a hardware
level. iROG greatly increases fun during overclocking for PC enthusiasts and it

offers system maintenance and management with more control and efciency.

1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

CPU Level Up

A simple click for instant upgrade!

Ever wish that you could have a more expansive CPU? Upgrade your CPU at no
additional cost with ROG's CPU Level Up! Simply pick the processor you wanted
to OC to, and the motherboard will do the rest! See the new CPU speed and enjoy
that performance instantly. Overclocking is never as easy as this.

GPU.DIMM Post

Easily check the status of your graphics cards and memory in the BIOS!

Notice potential problems even before you enter the OS! Overclockers can save
valuable minutes in detecting component failure under extreme conditions. With
GPU.DIMM Post, quickly and easily check your graphics cards and memory
DIMMs status in the BIOS, potentially keeping that record-breaking overclock!

BIOS Print

One click, easily share your BIOS settings

ROG offers a whole new UEFI BIOS feature to handle the demands of an
overclocking experience. Crosshair V Formula features ROG BIOS Print which
allows users to easily share their BIOS settings to others with the press of a button.
The days of using a camera to take BIOS screenshot are over.

ProbeIt

Get all hands-on with hardware-based overclocking

ProbeIt takes the guesswork out of locating the motherboard’s measurement
points, identifying them clearly in the form of 8 sets of detection points so you’ll
know exactly where to get quick yet accurate readings using a multitester.

MemOK!

Any memory is A-OK!

Memory compatibility is among the top concerns when it comes to computer
upgrades. Worry no more, MemOK! is the fastest memory booting solution today.
This remarkable memory rescue tool requires nothing but a push of a button
to patch memory issues and get your system up and running in no time. The
technology is able to determine failsafe settings that can dramatically improve
system booting success.

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1-5

Extreme Tweaker

One stop performance tuning shop

Extreme Tweakers is the one stop shop to ne-tune your system to optimal

performance. No matter if you're looking for frequency adjustment, over-voltage
options, or memory timing settings, they're all here!

Voltiminder LED

Friendly reminder on Voltage Settings

In the pursuit of extreme performance, overvoltage adjustment is critical but

risky. Acting as the "red zone" of a tachometer, the Voltiminder LED displays the

voltage status for CPU, PCH, and Memory in a intuitive color-coded fashion. The
voltiminder LED allows quick voltage monitoring for overclockers.

COP EX

Maximum OC with condence with burn proof protection to chipsets and

GPU!

The COP EX allows overclockers to increase chipset voltage without the worries
of overheating. It can also be used to monitor and save an overheating GPU.
The COP EX allows more freedom and less constraint for maximum performance
achievement.

Loadline Calibration

Optimal power boost for extreme CPU overclocking!

Maintaining ample voltage support for the CPU is critical during overclocking.
The Loadline Calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage under heavy
loading. It helps overclockers enjoy the motherboard's ultimate OC capabilities and
benchmark scores.

Onboard Switches

No more shorting pins or moving jumpers

With an easy press during overclock, this exclusive onboard switch allows gamer

to effortlessly ne-tune the performance without having to short the pins or moving

jumpers!

1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

SupremeFX X-Fi 2 Built-in

Play with ultra-real cinematic in-game surround sound!

SupremeFX X-Fi 2 delivers incredible gaming audio experiences to ROG die
hards. It features EAX 5.0 and OpenAL for ultra-real cinematic in-game audio.
It even comes with THX TruStudio Pro, which makes games, music and movies
sound way better! SupremeFX X-Fi 2 also implements gold-plated jacks and high

quality capacitors to ensure high denition adventures in audio.

1.3.4 ASUS special features

ASUS TPU

The Ultimate O.C. Processor

Unleash your performance with ASUS’ simple onboard switch or AI Suite II utility.
The TPU chip offers precise voltage control and advanced monitoring through Auto
Tuning and TurboV functions. Auto Tuning offers a user friendly way to automtically

optimize the system for fast, yet stable clock speeds, while TurboV enables
unlimited freedom to adjust CPU frequencies and ratios for optimized performance

in diverse situations.

USB 3.0 Support

10X Faster Date Rates!

Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0—the latest
connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next generation components and
peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10X faster and is also backward compatible
with USB 2.0 components.

SATA 6Gb/s Support

Experience the Future of Storage!

Supporting next-generation Serial ATA (SATA) storage interface, this motherboard
delivers up to 6Gb/s data transfer rates. Additionally, get enhanced scalability,
faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current bus systems.

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1-7

ASUS Fan Xpert

ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan
speeds according to different ambient temperatures caused by different climate
conditions in different geographic regions and your PC’s loading. The built-in

variety of useful proles offer exible controls of fan speed to achieve a quiet and

cool environment.

ASUS Q-Connector

Make connections quick and accurate

The Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front panel cables
in one easy step with one complete module. This unique adapter eliminates the
trouble of plugging in one cable at a time, making connection quick and accurate.

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus

The best protection from viruses and spyware

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus Personal offers premium antivirus protection for individual

users and home ofces. It is based on advanced antivirus technologies. The

product incorporates the Kaspersky® Anti-Virus engine, which is renowned for
malicious program detection rates that are among the industry's highest.

1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

This chapter lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It
includes description of the jumpers and
connectors on the motherboard.

Chapter 2: Hardware

2

information

Chapter summary

2

2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-2

2.3 Building your computer system ............................................... 2-32

2.4 Starting up for the rst time ...................................................... 2-50

2.5 Turning off the computer ........................................................... 2-51

ROG Crosshair V Formula