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”).
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 tness for a particular purpose. In no
event shall ASUS, its directors, ofcers, employees, or agents be liable for any indirect, special, incidental,
or consequential damages (including damages for loss of prots, 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.
Specications and information contained in this manual ae 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.
Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the
product is defaced or missing.
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 identication or explanation and to the
owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.
ii
Page 3
Contents
Notices ....................................................................................................... viii
Safety information ...................................................................................... ix
About this guide .......................................................................................... x
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 System package contents ........................................................... 1-2
1.2 Serial number label ......................................................................
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 A 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.
WARNING! The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card
is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications to this
unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we publish the chemical substances in our products at
ASUS REACH website at http://green.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
viii
Page 9
Safety information
Electrical Safety
• Before installing or removing signal cables, ensure that the power cables for the system
unit and all attached devices are unplugged.
• To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet
before relocating the system.
• When adding or removing any additional devices to or from the system, contact a
qualied service technician or your dealer. 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 service.
• If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service
technician or your dealer.
Operation Safety
• Servicing of this product or units is to be performed by trained service personnel only.
• Before operating the server, carefully read all the manuals included with the server
package.
• Before using the server, make sure all cables are correctly connected and the power
cables are not damaged. If any damage is detected, contact your dealer as soon as
possible.
• To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,
slots, sockets and circuitry.
• Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Place the server on a stable surface.
This product is equipped with a three-wire power cable and plug for the user’s safety. Use
the power cable with a properly grounded electrical outlet to avoid electrical shock.
CAUTION! Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only
Lithium-Ion Battery Warning
with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of
used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
CD-ROM Drive Safety Warning
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
Heavy System
CAUTION! This server system is heavy. Ask for assistance when moving or carrying
the system.
ix
Page 10
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.
About this guide
Audience
This user guide is intended for system integrators, and experienced users with at least basic
knowledge of conguring a server.
Contents
This guide contains the following parts:
1. Chapter 1: Product Introduction
This chapter describes the general features of the server, including sections on front
panel and rear panel specications.
2. Chapter 2: Hardware setup
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when
installing or removing system components.
3. Chapter 3: Motherboard information
This chapter includes the motherboard layout and brief descriptions of the jumpers and
internal connectors.
4. Chapter 4: BIOS information
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus and
describes the BIOS parameters.
5.Chapter5:RAIDconguration
This chapter provides instructions for setting up, creating and conguring RAID sets
using the available utilities.
6. Chapter 6: Driver installation
This chapter provides instructions for installing the necessary drivers for different
system components.
7. Chapter 7: Multiple GPU technology support
This chapter describes how to install and congure multiple ATI®
CrossFireX™/ NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards and NVIDIA® CUDA technology.
x
Page 11
Conventions
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used
throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when
trying to complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when
trying to complete a task.
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Typography
Bold text
Italics
<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
exactly as shown, then supply the required
item or value enclosed in brackets.
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the
command line:
Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
Means that you must type the command
format A:/S
xi
Page 12
Wheretondmoreinformation
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.
xii
Page 13
Chapter 1
This chapter describes the general features
of the workstation, including sections on front
panel and rear panel specications.
ASUS ESC1000 G2
Product introduction
Page 14
1.1 System package contents
Check your system package for the following items.
Model NameESC1000 G2
ChassisASUS T50A Pedestal 5U Rackmount Chassis
MotherboardASUS P9X79 WS workstation motherboard
Component1 x 1350W 80+ Gold Single Power Supply
Accessories1 x ESC1000 G2 User’s Guide
Optional Items Cooler for CPU 150W Upgrade Kit
4 x hot-swap HDD trays
1 x Front I/O Board
1 x System Fan (Rear: 1 x 120mm x 38mm)
1 x P9X79 WS Support DVD
1 x Bag of Screws
1 x AC Power Cable
1 x COM Port Cable
1 x System Fan (Front: 1 x 80mm x 25mm; )
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
1.2 Serial number label
For faster and quicker troubleshooting solutions from the ASUS Technical Support team,
provide the product’s serial number containing 14 characters such as xxS0xxxxxxxxxx as
shown in the gure below.
ESC1000 G2
xxS0xxxxxxxxxx
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-2
Page 15
1.3Systemspecications
ASUS ESC1000 G2 is a workstation that features the ASUS P9X79 WS motherboard,
supports Intel® LGA2011 Xeon® E5-1600/Core™ i7-3900/3800 series processors, and the
latest technologies through the onboard chipsets.
Model NameESC1000 G2
1 x Socket LGA2011
Processor / System Bus
Core Logic
Total Slots
Capacity
Memory
Expansion Slots
StorageSATA Controller
NetworkingLAN
Memory Type
Memory Size
Total PCI/PCI-X/
PCI-E Slots
Slot Type
Intel® Xeon® processor E5-1600/Core™
i7-3900/3800 processor family
(TDP=130W)
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
8 (4-channel per CPU, 8 DIMM per CPU)
Maximum up to 64GB (UDIMM)
DDR3 1066/1333/1866(O.C.)/2000(O.C.)/ 2133
(O.C.)/2400(O.C.) non-ECC/ECC UDIMM
*Refer to www.asus.com for detailed memory AVL
CPU support list.
1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB (UDIMM)
6
4 x PCI-E 3.0 x16 slots
(dual at x16/x16, quad at x8/x8/x8/x8)
2 x PCI-E 3.0 x16 slots (at x4 mode)
Intel® X79:
- 2 x SATA 6.0Gb/s ports (gray)
- 4 x SATA 3.0Gb/s ports (blue)
Intel Rapid Storage Technology enterprise (for
Windows only) supporting software RAID 0, 1, 5 &
10
Marvell 88SE9128 SATA controller:
- 2 x SATA 6.0Gb/s ports supporting RAID 0 & 1
1 x Intel® 82579V Gigabit LAN (PHY)
1 x Intel® 82574L Gigabit LAN controller
HDD Bays
Auxiliary Storage FDD / CD / DVD
Front Panel I/O
ASUS ESC1000 G21-3
4 x Hot-swap 3.5” HDD Bays
3 x 5.25” media bays (Optional: DVD-RW)*
*DVD-RW default for North America
2 x USB 3.0 ports
2 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x Line In
1 x Line Out
(continued on the next page)
Page 16
1 x PS/2 Keyboard port
1 x PS/2 Mouse port
1 x S/PDIF Out (Optical)
1 x USB BIOS Flashback button
Rear Panel I/O
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)
8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (white port can be switched to
USB BIOS Flashback)
1 x IEEE 1394a port
2 x RJ45 ports
8-channel Audio I/O
Windows® XP Service Pack 2 64-bit
Windows® XP Service Pack 3 32-bit
Windows® Vista Sevice Pack 2 32/64-bit
OS Support
Windows® 7 Ultimate Service Pack 1 32/64-bit
RedHat® Enterprise Linux Desktop WS 6.2
Open SuSE® 12.1
Ubuntu Desktop 11.1
Fedora 16
Anti-virus Software
Dimension (HH x WW x DD)
Net Weight Kg (CPU, DRAM &
HDD not included)
Power Supply
Power Rating
Optional anti-virus CD Pack
445mm x 217.5mm x 545mm
17 Kg
1350W (80+) Gold Single Power Supply
Input: 115-240Vac, 14.5-6.5A, 50-60Hz, Class I
Operating temperature: 10°C–35°C
Environment
Non operating temperature: -40°C–70°C
Non operating humidity: 20%–90% (Non-condensing)
Refer to section 1.7.1 Front panel LEDs for the LED descriptions.
Security lock
Power button
Reset button
Headphone
outputjack
Microphone
jack
ASUS ESC1000 G21-5
Page 18
1.5 Rear panel features
Power switch
Power connector
PS/2 mouse port
PS/2 keyboard port
USB 2.0 ports
USB BIOS
Flashback button
USB 2.0 ports
USB 3.0 ports
8-channel audio ports
1350W 80+Single power
supply
Chassis lock
120mm x 38mm system fan
Optical S/PDIF Out port
LAN1 (RJ-45) port
IEEE 1394a port
LAN2 (RJ-45) port
Chassis intrusion switch
Expansion slots
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-6
Page 19
1.6 Internal features
1
2
8
3
4
1. 1350W 80+ Gold Single Power supply unit
2.
120mm x 38mm system fan
3.
ASUS P9X79 WS motherboard
4. Expansion card locks
5. Optical drive
6. 2 x 5.25-inch drive bays
7. 4-bay HDD module
8. SATA/SAS backplane board
5
6
7
Turn off the system power and detach the power supply before removing or replacing any
system component.
Connect a USB oppy disk drive or a USB ODD to any of the USB ports on the front or rear
panel if you need to use a oppy disk or an optical disc.
KEEP FINGERS AND OTHER BODY PARTS AWAY
HAZARDOUS MOVING PARTS
ASUS ESC1000 G21-7
*WARNING
Page 20
1.7 LED information
1.7.1 Front panel LEDs
HDD Access LED
Power LED
LEDIconDisplay statusDescription
Power LEDONSystem power ON
Drive Status LED
HDD Access LED
OFF
Blinking
Green
No activity
Read/write data into the HDD
Bridge board connected to backplane
Installed HDD is in good condition
Drive status LED
The Power and HDD Access LEDs are visible even if the system front bezel is closed.
Red
Green/Red blinking
HDD failure
HDD rebuilding using the RAID card
1.7.2 Rear panel LEDs
Activity Link LEDSpeed LED
StatusDescriptionStatusDescription
OFFNo linkOFF10 Mbps connection
ORANGELinkedORANGE100 Mbps connection
BLINKINGData activityGREEN1 Gbps connection
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-8
ACT/LINK
LED
LAN port
SPEED
LED
Page 21
Chapter 2
This chapter lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform when
installing or removing system components.
ASUS ESC1000 G2
Hardware setup
Page 22
2.1 Chassis cover
2.1.1 Removing the side cover
• Ensure that you unplug the power cord before removing the side cover.
• Take extra care when removing the side cover. Keep your ngers from components
inside the chassis that can cause injury, such as the CPU fan, rear fan, and other
sharp-edged parts.
• The images of the workstation shown in this section are for reference purpose only
and may not exactly match the model you purchase.
To remove the side cover:
1. Remove the two screws that secure the
left side cover of the chassis.
1
1
2. Slide the side cover for about half an inch
toward the rear until it disengaged from
the chassis. Carefully lift the side cover
and set it aside.
2
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-2
Page 23
2.1.2 Reinstalling the side cover
To reinstall the side cover:
1. Match and insert the lower sliding edge
of the side cover to the chassis edge.
2. Position the side cover to the chassis.
3. Slide the side cover toward the front panel
until it snaps in place.
1
3
4. Drive in the two screws you removed
earlier to secure the side cover.
4
4
2-3ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 24
2.2 Motherboard overview
The barebone server is installed with the Z9PE-D8 WS motherboard, which is secured to the
chassis with ten (10) screws.
Refer to
Chapter 3: Motherboard Information
Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis
Ensure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing any motherboard component
or connection. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage the motherboard
components.
for detailed information on the motherboard.
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-4
Page 25
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
®
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA2011 socket designed for the Intel® Xeon®
E5-1600/Core™ i7-3900/3800 series processors.
Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
• Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and
the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap
is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard
components. ASUS shoulders the repair cost only if the damage is shipment/transit-
related.
• Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise
Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the
LGA2011 socket.
• The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from
incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP
cap.
2-5ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 26
B
A
2.3.1 CPU installation
B
C
A
B
A
Please note the order in opening/ closing the double latch. Follow the instructions printed on
the metal sealing hatch or the illustrations shown below in this manual. The plastic cap will pop
up automatically once the CPU is in place and the hatch properly sealed down.
12
34
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-6
Page 27
B
A
B
A
56
78
9
2-7ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 28
2.3.2 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation
A
B
B
A
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
1
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-8
Page 29
2
®
DO NOT forget to connect the CPU_FAN connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur
if you fail to plug this connector.
2-9ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 30
2.4 System memory
®
®
2.4.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with eight Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules
(DIMM) slots.
A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR
or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.
Recommendedmemorycongurations
Due to Intel CPU spec denition, the system will not boot if only one DIMM is installed
in DIMM slot A2, B2, C2 or D2. Follow the illustrations above for recommended memory
conguration.
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-10
Page 31
2.4.2Memorycongurations
You may install 1GB, G2B, 4GB, 8GB unbuffered ECC or non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the
DIMM sockets depending on the installed CPU.
• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B, Channel C and
Channel D. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dualchannel conguration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then
mapped for single-channel operation.
• Due to Intel spec denition, X.M.P. DIMMs and DDR3-1600 are supported for one
DIMM per channel only.
• According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect
the CPU.
•
The max. 64GB memory capacity can be supported with DIMMs of 8GB (or above).
ASUS will update QVL once the DIMMs are available on the market.
• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.
• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows OS, when you install 4GB
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
- Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows OS.
- Install a 64-bit Windows OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the
motherboard.
- For more details, refer to the Microsoft
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929605/en-us.
• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512 Mb (64MB) chips or less
(Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB).
®
support site at
• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its SPD. Under the default
state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than
the vendor-marked value.
• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (8 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
2-11ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 32
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM
Ensure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system
components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the
components.
1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing
the retaining clip outward.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that
the notch on the DIMM matches the
DIMM slot key on the socket.
A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into
a socket in the wrong direction to avoid damaging the DIMM.
3. Hold the DIMM by both of its ends,
then insert the DIMM vertically into
the socket. Apply force to both ends
of the DIMM simultaneously until the
retaining clip snaps back into place,
and the DIMM cannot be pushed in
any further to ensure proper sitting of
the DIMM.
Always insert the DIMM into the socket VERTICALLY to prevent DIMM notch damage.
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM
DIMM notch
DIMM slot key
3
1
2
Unlocked retaining clip
3
Locked Retaining Clip
1. Press the retaining clip outward to
unlock the DIMM.
2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.
Support the DIMM lightly with your ngers when pressing the retaining clip. The DIMM
might get damaged when it ips out with extra force.
2
1
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-12
Page 33
2.5 Front panel assembly
Before you can install a 5.25-inch drive, you should rst remove the front panel assembly
(front bezel and front panel cover).
2.5.1 Removing the front panel assembly
To remove the front panel assembly:
1. Locate the three hooked tabs on the chassis side rail.
2. Shift the hooked tabs and take off the front bezel.
2.5.2 Reinstalling the front panel assembly
To reinstall the front panel assembly:
1. Hook the other side of the front panel
assembly to the chassis.
2. Swing the front panel assembly and
snap it back into place.
2-13ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 34
2.6 5.25-inch drives
Ensure to unplug the power cable before installing or removing any system components.
Failure to do so may cause damage to the motherboard and other system components!
The system comes with three 5.25-inch drive
bays located on the upper front part of the
chassis. An optical drive that comes standard/
optional with the system package occupies
the uppermost bay (labeled 1). The lower bays
(labeled 2 and 3) are available for additional
5.25-inch optical, zip, or oppy disk drives.
You must remove the front panel
assembly before installing a 5.25-inch
drive.
Installing a 5.25-inch drive
1. Unscrew and remove the metal cover
of the bay where you want to install the
5.25-inch drive, and take off the plastic
cover on the front bezel at the same
position.
2. Insert the drive into the bay and slide
the bay lock to the right until it clicks in
place.
1
2
3
2
3. Connect the SATA cable to the SATA
connector on the back of the drive.
4. Connect a power plug from the power
supply to the power connector on the
back of the drive.
4
3
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-14
Page 35
2.7 SATA hard disk drives
The hard disk drive module cage on the front panel, including externally removable trays for
mounting SATA hard disk drives, allows you to access the drive trays by simply opening the
front bezel.
An HDD module cage comes with a SATA backplane. Ensure of the type of HDD module
cage you purchase before buying hard disks.
2.7.1 Installing the HDD module cage
1. Examine the chassis and ensure the bay space is free of wires and other obstructions.
2. Level the HDD module cage latch
counterclockwise.
3. Insert the HDD module cage into the bay.
3
2
4. When the HDD module cage is
completed inserted, the cage latch will
be pushed back clockwise.
4
5. Lock the cage latch properly.
6. Connect the appropriate cables to the
SATA backplane on the HDD module
cage.
5
2-15ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 36
2.7.2 Removing the HDD module cage
1. Disconnect the all cables from the SATA backplane on the HDD module cage.
2.
Level the HDD module cage latch
counterclockwise. The HDD module
cage will be pushed out of the chassis.
2
3. Completely pull out the HDD module
cage.
2.7.3 Installing a hot-swap SATA hard disk drive
1. Release a drive tray by pushing the
spring lock to the right, and then pulling
the tray lever outward. The drive tray
ejects slightly after you pull out the lever.
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-16
Page 37
2. Firmly hold the tray lever and pull the
drive tray out of the bay.
3. Take note of the drive tray holes. Each
side has three holes to t different types
of hard disk drives. Use two screws on
each side to secure the hard disk drive.
4. Place a SATA hard disk drive on the tray,
and then secure it with four screws.
5. Carefully insert the drive tray and push
it all the way to the depth of the bay until
just a small fraction of the tray edge
protrudes.
When installed, the SATA connector on the drive connects to the SATA interface on the
backplane.
2-17ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 38
6. Push the tray lever until it clicks, and
secures the drive tray in place. The drive
tray is correctly placed when its front
edge aligns with the bay edge.
7. Repeat steps 1 to 6 if you wish to install
a second SATA drive.
2.7.4 Removing and reinstalling the backplane
DO NOT remove the backplane unless necessary!
1. Remove all hot-swap HDD trays from the
chassis.
2. Disconnect all cables from the SATA
backplane.
3. Loosen the four screws on the
backplane.
4. Firmly hold the backplane, lift it up and
remove it from the module.
5. Follow the previous instructions in
reverse to reinstall the backplane.
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-18
Page 39
2.8 Expansion cards
The system is designed with an expansion card lock on the rear panel for you to install or
remove an expansion card in less steps.
Ensure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing expansion cards. Failure to
do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard and other system components!
Slot No. Slot Description
1PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)
2PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slot (x8 mode)
3PCIe 3.0 x16_3 slot (x4 mode)
4PCIe 3.0 x16_4 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)
5PCIe 3.0 x16_5 slot (x4 mode)
6PCIe 3.0 x16_6 slot (x8 mode)
2-19ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 40
2.8.1 Installing an expansion card
1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and
make the necessary hardware settings for the card.
2. Lay the system on its side on a at, stable surface.
3. Push down the expansion card lock latch (step a) and lift up the expansion card lock
(step b), as shown in the right gure.
a
Expansion card lock latches
Expansion card locks
b
4. Remove the metal slot cover opposite
the slot where you wish to install an
expansion card.
5. Align the card golden ngers with the
slot, and then press rmly until the card
is completely seated on the slot.
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-20
Page 41
6. Restore the expansion card lock to its
original position. A light click indicates
that the card is locked in place.
2.8.2Conguringanexpansioncard
After installing the expansion card, congure the it by adjusting the software settings.
1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 4 for
information on BIOS setup.
2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the following tables.
3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
SATA Controller 1––shared–––––
SATA Controller 2––––shared–––
USB 2.0 Controller 1–––––––shared
USB 2.0 Controller 2–––––––shared
HD Audio––––––shared–
–
–
–
–shared
––––
––––
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-22
Page 43
2.9 Cable connections
• The bundled system cables are pre-connected before shipment. You do not need to
disconnect these cables unless you will remove pre-installed components to install
additional devices.
• Refer to Chapter 3 for detailed information on the connectors.
2.9.1 Motherboard connections
1
3
3
7
3
4
Standard cables connected to the motherboard
1. 8-pin 12V power connector (from power supply to motherboard)
2. 24-pin ATX power connector (from power supply to motherboard)
3. System fan connectors (from system fan to motherboard)
4. Front panel USB connector (from motherboard to front I/O board)
5. SATA conectors (from motherboard to SATA backplane)
6. System panel connector (from motherboard to front I/O board)
7. Front panel audio connector (from motherboard to front I/O board)
6
2
3
3
4
5
2-23ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 44
2.9.2 SATA backplane connections
An SATA backplane comes pre-installed in the ESC1000 G2. The SATA backplane has
four 22-pin SATA connectors to support Serial ATA hard disk drives. The backplane design
incorporates a hot swap feature to allow easy connection or removal of SATA hard disks. The
LEDs on the backplane connect to the front panel LEDs to indicate HDD status. See section
1.7 LED information for details.
Front side
The front side of the SATA backplane faces the front panel when installed. This side includes
four SATA connectors for the hot swap drive trays.
HDD1
HDD2
Drive status LEDs
HDD3
HDD4
Each SATA connector is labeled (HDD1, HDD2,
HDD3, HDD4) so you can easily determine their
counterpart connectors at the back side of the
backplane. Refer to the table for reference.
HDD DeviceFront side connectorBack side connector
HDD 1HDD1CON1
HDD 2HDD2CON2
HDD 3HDD3CON3
HDD 4HDD4CON4
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-24
Page 45
Back side
The back side of the SATA backplane faces the rear panel when installed. This side includes
the power connectors and SATA interfaces for the motherboard Serial ATA connectors.
U1
CON1
CON2
CON4
CON3
ConnectorsDescription
U1
CON1/CON2/
CON3/CON4
Connects to 4-pin plug of the power supply
Connects to SATA/SAS connectors on the motherboard
2-25ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 46
2.10 Removable components
You may need to remove previously installed system components when installing or removing
system devices, or when you need to replace defective components. This section tells how to
remove the front and rear system fans.
2.10.1 Removing rear system fan
To remove the rear system fan:
1. Unplug the system fan cable from
the
CHA_FAN1
motherboard.
2. Shift the two hooked tabs leftward and
rightward respectively.
connector on the
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-26
Page 47
3. Carefully take off the system fan.
4. Follow the previous instructions in
reverse to reinstall the rear system fan.
2.10.2 Removing front system fan
To remove the front system fan:
1. Remove the two screws that secure the
right side cover.
1
2. Locate the front system fan near the
5.25-inch drive bays.
3. Squeeze the front system fan latches
(step a) and pull out the front system
fan (step b), as shown in the right gure.
4. Follow the previous instructions in
reverse to reinstall the front system fan.
1
a
b
a
2-27ASUS ESC1000 G2
Page 48
Chapter 2: Hardware setup2-28
Page 49
Chapter 3
This chapter gives information about the
motherboard that comes with the workstation.
This chapter includes the motherboard layout,
jumper settings, and connector locations.
ASUS ESC1000 G2
Motherboard Info
Page 50
3.1 Motherboard layout
Refer to 3.5 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal
connectors.
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-2
Page 51
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/SlotsPage
1. ATX Power connectors (8-pin EATX12V, 24-pin EATXPWR)3-30
2.DDR3 DIMM slots2-10
3.LGA2011 CPU Socket 2-5
4.CPU, CPU OPT, Chassis fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)
5.EZ Plug (4-pin EZ_Plug)3-31
6.MemOK! button3-8
7.EPU Switch3-7
8.USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)3-24
9.Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])
10.Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])
11. Marvell® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [navy blue])
12.Q-Code LED (LED0, LED1)3-12
13.Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CHAFAN_SEL)3-5
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can
clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing
the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in
CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM:
1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3
for about 5–10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-
enter data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
• If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper
again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the
battery.
• You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For
system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature.
Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter
settings to default values.
• Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R. function. You
must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before
rebooting the system.
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-4
Page 53
2. Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CHAFAN_SEL)
®
These jumpers allow you to switch for fan pin selection. The CHAFAN_SEL jumper is for
the front fans and rear fans control. Set to pins 1–2 when using 3-pin fans or pins 2–3
when using 4-pin fans.
• If you use a 4-pin fan but set the jumper to pin 1-2, the fan you installed may not work.
• If you use a 3-pin fan but set the jumper for a 4-pin fan, the fan control will not work and
the fan you installed will always run at full speed.
ASUS ESC1000 G23-5
Page 54
3.3 Onboard buttons and switches
®
P9X79 WS Power-on button
®
P9X79 WS Reset button
Onboard switches abd 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 plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the
location of the onboard power-on button.
2. Reset button
Press the reset button to reboot the system.
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-6
Page 55
3. EPU switch
®
®
Turning this switch to
will automatically detect the current PC loadings and
Enable
intelligently moderate the power consumption.
For ensuring system performance, turn the switch setting to
when the system is
Enable
powered off.
4. TPU switch
Turning this switch to Enable will automatically optimize the system for fast, yet stable
clock speeds.
For ensuring system performance, turn the switch setting to
powered off.
when the system is
Enable
ASUS ESC1000 G23-7
Page 56
5. MemOK! button
®
P9X79 WS MemOK! button
Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system boot
failure, and the DIAG_DRAM near the MemOK! button lights continuously. Press and
hold the MemOK! button until the DIAG_DRAM starts blinking to begin automatic
memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.
• Refer to section
• The DIAG_DRAM also lights when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the
system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.
• The MemOK! button does not function under Windows™ OS environment.
• 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 DIAG_DRAM increases, indicating different test processes.
• Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each
timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning
process, the DIAG_DRAM lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones
recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualied 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 fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! button to boot
and load BIOS default settings. A messgae 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.
3.4 Onboard LEDs
for the exact location of the DIAG_DRAM.
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-8
Page 57
3.4 Onboard LEDs
®
1. Standby Power LEDs
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the
system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should
shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any
motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.
The Standby Power LEDs will light up once the system is connected to a power source
2. Diagnosis LED
These diagnosis LEDs of CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD indicate key component
status during POST (Power-on Self Test), providing an elegant embellishment to the
motherboard design. The LED lights will ash sequentially during system bootup. If an
error is found, the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is
solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitional way to locate the root problem
within a second.
ASUS ESC1000 G23-9
Page 58
®
3. EPU LED
®
The EPU LED lights when the EPU switch is turned to
4. TPU LED
The TPU LED lights when the TPU switch is turned to Enable.
Enable
.
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-10
Page 59
5. Instant O.C. status checking LED
P9X79 WS
®
P9X79 WS Ai Tweaker LED
®
Lights up according to
Ai Tweaker settings
The lighting color of the ASUS logo on the LED signies Ai Tweaker settings.
Instant O.C. status checking LED Activity
StatusDescription
BlueNormal
RedAi Tweaker Enabled/ Overclocking
GreenEPU Enabled/ Power saving mode
ASUS ESC1000 G23-11
Page 60
6. Q-Code LEDs
®
The Q-Code LED design provides you the 2-digit display, allowing you to know the
system status. Refer to the Q-Code table below for details.
Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard).
AP initialization before microcode loading
System Agent initialization before microcode loading
PCH initialization before microcode loading
Initialization before microcode loading
Microcode loading
AP initialization after microcode loading
System Agent initialization after microcode loading
PCH initialization after microcode loading
Initialization after microcode loading
Cache initialization
Reserved for future AMI SEC error codes
Microcode not found
Microcode not loaded
PEI Core is started
Pre-memory CPU initialization is started
Pre-memory System Agent initialization is started
Pre-memory PCH initialization is started
Pre-memory initialization codes
Memory initialization
Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-12
Page 61
Q-Code table (continued)
CodeDescription
31
32 – 36
37 – 3A
3B – 3E
3F – 4E
4F
50 – 53
54
55
56
57
58
59
5A
5B
5C – 5F
E0
E1
E2
E3
E4 – E7
E8
E9
EA
EB
EC – EF
F0
F1
CPU post-memory initialization
Post-Memory System Agent initialization is started
Post-Memory PCH initialization is started
Post memory initialization codes
DXE IPL is started
Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory
speed
Unspecied memory initialization error
Memory not installed
Invalid CPU type or Speed
CPU mismatch
CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error
CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed
Internal CPU error
Reset PPI is not available
Reserved for future AMI error codes
S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is called by the DXE IPL)
S3 Boot Script execution
Video repost
OS S3 wake vector call
Reserved for future AMI progress codes
S3 Resume Failed
S3 Resume PPI not Found
S3 Resume Boot Script Error
S3 OS Wake Error
Reserved for future AMI error codes
Recovery condition triggered by rmware (Auto recovery)
Recovery condition triggered by user (Forced recovery)
Recovery process started
Recovery rmware image is found
Recovery rmware image is loaded
Reserved for future AMI progress codes
Recovery PPI is not available
Recovery capsule is not found
Invalid recovery capsule
Reserved for future AMI error codes
DXE Core is started
NVRAM initialization
Installation of the PCH Runtime Services
CPU DXE initialization is started
PCI host bridge initialization
System Agent DXE initialization is started
System Agent DXE SMM initialization is started
NVRAM initialization
Installation of the PCH Runtime Services
CPU DXE initialization is started
PCI host bridge initialization
System Agent DXE initialization is started
System Agent DXE SMM initialization is started
System Agent DXE initialization (System Agent module specic)
PCH DXE initialization is started
PCH DXE SMM initialization is started
PCH devices initialization
PCH DXE Initialization (PCH module specic)
ACPI module initialization
CSM initialization
Reserved for future AMI DXE codes
DXE initialization codes
Boot Device Selection (BDS) phase is started
Driver connecting is started
PCI Bus initialization is started
PCI Bus Hot Plug Controller Initialization
PCI Bus Enumeration
PCI Bus Request Resources
PCI Bus Assign Resources
Super IO Initialization
USB initialization is started
USB Reset
USB Detect
USB Enable
Reserved for future AMI codes
IDE initialization is started
IDE Reset
IDE Detect
IDE Enable
SCSI initialization is started
SCSI Reset
SCSI Detect
SCSI Enable
Setup Verifying Password
Start of Setup
Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
Setup Input Wait
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-14
Page 63
Q-Code table (continued)
CodeDescription
AC
AD
AE
AF
B0
B1
B2
B3
B4
B5
B6
B7
B8– BF
C0– CF
D0
D1
D2
D3
D4
D5
D6
D7
D8
D9
DA
DB
DC
Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
Ready To Boot event
Legacy Boot event
Exit Boot Services event
Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP Begin
Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP End
Legacy Option ROM Initialization
System Reset
USB hot plug
PCI bus hot plug
Clean-up of NVRAM
Conguration Reset (reset of NVRAM settings)
Reserved for future AMI codes
BDS initialization codes
CPU initialization error
System Agent initialization error
PCH initialization error
Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available
PCI resource allocation error. Out of Resources
No Space for Legacy Option ROM
No Console Output Devices are found
No Console Input Devices are found
Invalid password
Error loading Boot Option (LoadImage returned error)
Boot Option is failed (StartImage returned error)
Flash update is failed
Reset protocol is not available
ACPI/ASL Checkpoints
CodeDescription
0x01
0x02
0x03
0x04
0x05
0x10
0x20
0x30
0x40
0xAC
0xAA
ASUS ESC1000 G23-15
System is entering S1 sleep state
System is entering S2 sleep state
System is entering S3 sleep state
System is entering S4 sleep state
System is entering S5 sleep state
System is waking up from the S1 sleep state
System is waking up from the S2 sleep state
System is waking up from the S3 sleep state
System is waking up from the S4 sleep state
System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in PIC mode.
System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in APIC mode.
Page 64
3.5 Connectors
2
11121089765
143
3.5.1 Rear panel connectors
Rear panel connectors
1. PS/2 mouse port7. USB BIOS Flashback button
2. LAN (RJ-45) port 2* 8. Optical S/PDIF Out port
3. IEEE 1394a port9. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6
4. LAN (RJ-45) port 1* 10. USB 2.0 ports 7 and 8
5. PS/2 keyboard port11. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2
6. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3, and 412. Audio I/O ports**
• Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under
Windows® OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation.
• USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only.
• We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster
and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.
* LAN port LED indications
Activity Link LEDSpeed LED
StatusDescriptionStatusDescription
OFFNo linkOFF10 Mbps connection
ORANGELinkedORANGE100 Mbps connection
BLINKINGData activityGREEN1 Gbps connection
ACT/LINK
LED
LAN port
SPEED
LED
**Audio2,4,6,or8-channelconguration
PortHeadset
2-channel
Light Blue Line InLine InLine InLine In
LimeLine OutFront Speaker OutFront Speaker OutFront Speaker Out
PinkMic InMic InMic InMic In
Orange––Center/SubwooferCenter/Subwoofer
Black–Rear Speaker OutRear Speaker OutRear Speaker Out
Gray–––Side Speaker Out
4-channel6-channel8-channel
3.5.2 Audio I/O connections
Audio I/O ports
Connect to Headphone and Mic
ASUS ESC1000 G23-17
Page 66
Connect to Stereo Speakers
Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-18
Page 67
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers
ASUS ESC1000 G23-19
Page 68
3.5.3 USB BIOS Flashback
1. Download the BIOS Flashback program le from the ASUS service website (www.asus.
com). Save the program le to a USB portable disk.
Ensure that the USB portable drive is in FAT32 format.
2. On the rear I/O port, plug the USB disk to USB port 1 with the WHITE interior. (See red
box in the image below)
3. Press the BIOS Flashback button for 3 seconds, and the light will begin to ash (on the
third second).
4. The Flashback function is enabled once the light starts to ash.
5. The ashing rate of the light signal accelerates along with the updating speed.
Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process causing
the system unable to reboot, please contact the local service station for help.
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-20
Page 69
3.5.4 Internal connectors
®
1. Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0
Gb/s signal cables.
• These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 4.5.5SATAConguration for details.
• Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 5.1RAIDcongurations
or the manual
bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
• When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer
to section 4.5.5SATAConguration for details.
• You must install Windows
®
XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.
ASUS ESC1000 G23-21
Page 70
2. Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])
®
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc
drives via Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s signal cables.
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10
conguration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® X79
chipset.
• These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 4.5.5SATAConguration for details.
• Before creating a RAID set, refer to section5.1RAIDcongurations
bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
• When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer
to section 4.5.5SATAConguration for details.
• You must install Windows
®
XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.
or the manual
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-22
Page 71
3. Marvell® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [navy blue])
®
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0
Gb/s signal cables.
• For high performance of ASUS SSD Caching, please connect one HDD and one SSD
to Marvell® SATA6G_E1/E2 connectors.
• For regular usage, the SATA6G_E1/E2 connectors are recommended for data drivers.
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ATA
hard disk drives.
•
When using NCQ, set the Marvell Storage Controller item in the BIOS to [Enabled].
Refer to section 4.5.7OnboardDevicesConguration for details.
• Press <Ctrl> + <M> during POST to enter the Marvell RAID utility to create or delete a
RAID conguration.
• If you want to install a Windows operating system to a RAID conguration created using
the Marvell SATA controller, you have to create a RAID driver disk using the motherboard
support DVD and load the driver during OS installation. For 32/64bit Windows XP OS,
load rst the Marvell shared library driver, and then load Marvell 91xx SATA Controller
Driver. For Windows Vista / Windows 7 OS, load only the Marvell 91xx SATA Controller
Driver.
ASUS ESC1000 G23-23
Page 72
4. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)
®
This connector is for the additional USB 3.0 ports, and complies with the USB 3.0
specicaton that supports up to 5.0 Gbps connection speed. If the USB 3.0 front panel
cable is available from your system chassis, with this USB 3.0 connector, you can have
a front panel USB 3.0 solution.
You can connect the ASUS front panel USB 3.0 box to this connector to obtain the front panel
USB 3.0 solution.
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 specication that supports up to
480 Mbps connection speed.
Never 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, blue) rst, and
then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports
front panel USB ports.
ASUS ESC1000 G23-25
Page 74
6. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)
®
®
This connector is for an IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable
to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system
chassis.
Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!
The IEEE 1394a module is purchased separately.
7. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s).
Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a
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. Insufcient air ow inside the
system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place
jumper caps on the fan connectors!
• The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power.
• If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis fan cable
to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2, CHA_FAN3 for better
thermal environment.
ASUS ESC1000 G23-27
Page 76
9. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
®
®
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports
either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel
audio I/O module cable to this connector.
• We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this
connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-denition audio capability.
• If you want to connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector, set
the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]; if you want to connect an AC'97
front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this
connector is set to [HD].
10. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)
This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this
connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
The COM module is purchased separately.
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-28
Page 77
11. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)
®
This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which can securely
store keys, digital certicates, passwords, and data. A TPM system also helps enhance
network security, protects digital identities, and ensures platform integrity.
Code table for G.P. Diagnosis card
15, 19
E0
2B-2F
Initiate chip
Check and wake up system
Prepare system for memory
detection and sizing
OS in PIC mode
AC
OS in APIC mode
AA
Leave BIOS and pass control to OS
00
32
34
98
97
9A-9D
A2
B2
Early CPU initiation
Wake up AP
Detect PS2 mouse/keyboard
Initiate VGA BIOS
USB initiation
Detect IDE
Initiate option ROM
01
03
04
05
10
30
40
S1
S3
S4
S5
Resume from S1
Resume from S3
Resume from S4
ASUS ESC1000 G23-29
Page 78
12. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)
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 congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit
(PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version) and provides a
minimum power of 350 W.
• Do not forget to connect the 8-pin EATX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system will not
boot.
• Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when conguring a system
with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot
up if the power is inadequate.
• 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=en-us for details.
• 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.
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-30
Page 79
13. EZ Plug HDD connector (4-pin EZ_PLUG)
This 4-pin connector is for power supply plug. When using three or more graphic cards,
more power is needed. Use this connector to enhance power by 12V.
ASUS ESC1000 G23-31
Page 80
14. 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 IDE_LED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable
to this connector. The IDE 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 BIOS
settings. Pressing the power button 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 3: Motherboard information3-32
Page 81
3.5.5 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)
IDE_LED
POWER SW
RESET SW
IDE_LED-
IDE_LED+
PWR
Reset
Ground
Ground
Use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect the chassis front panel cables.
1. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS
Q-Connector.
Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to
know the detailed pin denitions, and then
match them to their respective front panel
cable labels.
The labels on the front panel cables
may vary depending on the chassis
model.
2. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the system
panel connector, ensuring the orientation
matches the labels on the motherboard.
3. The front panel functions are now enabled.
The gure shows the
Q-Connector is properly installed on the
motherboard.
ASUS ESC1000 G23-33
Page 82
Chapter 3: Motherboard information3-34
Page 83
Chapter 4
This chapter tells how to change the system
settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters
are also provided.
ASUS ESC1000 G2
BIOS setup
Page 84
4.1 Knowing BIOS
The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is an Extensible Firmware Interface that complies with UEFI
architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-only
BIOS controls to enable more exible and convenient mouse input. Users can easily
navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system. The
term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specied.
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage
device conguration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device
conguration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In normal
circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure optimum
performance. We recommend that you 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 settings of the BIOS may result to instability or failure to boot. We strongly
recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service
personnel.
4.2 BIOS setup program
A BIOS setup program is provided for BIOS item modication. When you start up the
computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del>
during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility. Otherwise, POST continues
with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, press <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or press the reset
button on the system chassis to restart the system. You can also turn the system off and then
turn it back on to restart the system. Do this last option only if the rst two failed.
• 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. See section 4.9 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 3.2 Jumpers for information
on how to erase the RTC RAM.
• The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.
The BIOS setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various submenus and select from the
available options using a keyboard or a USB mouse.
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 button in the
EZ Mode/Advanced Mode screen.
4-2Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Page 85
4.2.1 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.
The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the
Setup Mode item in section 4.7 Boot menu for details.
Selects the display
language of the BIOS
setup program
Displays the CPU/motherboard
temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage
output, CPU/chassis/power fan speed
UEFI BIOS Utility - EZ Mode
P9X79 WS
BIOS Version : 0903 Build Date : 02/22/2012
CPU Type : Genuine Intel(R) CPU 0 @ 3.20GHz Speed : 3200 MHz
Monday [3/23/2012]
Temperature Voltage Fan Speed
+113.0ºF/+45.0ºC CPU 1.248V 5V 5.160VCPU_FAN 3325RPM PWR_FAN1 N/A
Use the mouse to drag or keyboard to navigate to decide the boot priority.
Shortcut (F3)
Quick switch to
frequently used menus
Total Memory : 512 MB (DDR3 800MHz)
Quiet
Normal
Power Saving mode
Selects the boot
device priority
Displays the system properties of the
Exits the BIOS setup program without saving
the changes, saves the changes and resets
the system, or enters the Advanced Mode
Boot Menu(F8)
Normal modeASUS Optimal mode
Selects the boot
device priority
Clicks to display all
fan speeds if available
Exit/Advanced Mode
English
Default(F5)
Loads optimized default
selected mode on the right hand side
• The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.
• The
Boot Menu(F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the
system.
ASUS ESC1000 G24-3
Page 86
4.2.2 Advanced Mode
The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to congure
the BIOS settings. The gure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the
following sections for the detailed congurations.
To access the EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode.
Menu items
Menu bar
Congurationelds
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Target CPU Speed : 3700MHz
Target DRAM Speed : 1333MHz
Ai Overclock Tuner Auto
Turbo Ratio Auto
CPU Clock Gen Filter Auto
Memory Frequency Auto
EPU Power Saving Mode Auto
> OC Tuner
> DRAM Timing Control
> DIGI+ Power Control
> CPU Performance Settings
CPU VCORE Voltage 1.142V Offset Mode
Offset Mode Sign +
Ai Tweaker
Submenu item
AdvancedMonitorBootTool
Ai Overclock Tuner
Auto
Manual
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Pop-up window
Scroll bar
[X.M.P.] When XMPis enabled BLCK
[X.M.P.] When XMP is enabled BLCK
frequency, CPU ratio and memory
frequency, CPU ratio and memory
parameters will be auto optimized.
parameters will be auto optimized.
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
MainFor changing the basic system conguration
Ai TweakerFor changing the overclocking settings
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Exit
For changing the advanced system settings
For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the
fan settings.
For changing the system boot conguration
For conguring options for special functions
For selecting the exit options and loading default settings
General help
Exit
Navigation keys
4-4Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Page 87
Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example,
selecting Main shows the Main menu items.
The other items (Ai 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 conguration
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.
General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.
Congurationelds
These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-congurable, you can
change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not
user-congurable.
A congurable eld is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a eld, select it and
press <Enter> to display a list of options.
ASUS ESC1000 G24-5
Page 88
4.3 Main menu
The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup
program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and
allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings.
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
BIOS Version 0903 x64
Build Date 02/22/2012
EC Version MBEC-X79-0403
ME Version 7.1.21.1134
CPU Information
Genuine Intel(R) CPU @ 2.00GHz
Speed 3200 MHz
Memory Information
Total Memory 4096 MB (DDR3)
Speed 1373 MHz
System Language English
System Date [Friday 03/23/2012]
System Time [16:46:15]
Access Level Administrator
> Security
Ai Tweaker
AdvancedMonitorBootTool
Choose the system default languageBIOS Information
Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back Main\
Password Description
If ONLY the Administrator's password is set,
then this only limits access to Setup and is
only asked for when entering Setup
If ONLY the User's password is set, then this
is a power on password and must be entered to
boot or enter Setup. In Setup the User will
have Administrator rights
The password must be 0 to 20 characters long.
Administrator Password Not Installed
User Password Not Installed
Administrator Password
User Password
Ai Tweaker
Security >
AdvancedMonitorBootTool
To clear the administrator password,
key in the current password in the
Enter Current Password box,
and then press <Enter> when
prompted to create/conrm the
password.
Exit
Exit
• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)
RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 3.2 Jumpers for information on how to
erase the RTC RAM.
• The
Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default
Not Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed.
4-6Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Page 89
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. Conrm the password when prompted.
To change an administrator password:
1. Select the
2. From the
<Enter>.
3. From the
4. Conrm 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/conrm 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. Conrm the password when prompted.
User Password item and press <Enter>.
Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
To change a user password:
1. Select the
2. From the
<Enter>.
3. From the
4. Conrm 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/conrm the password. After you clear the password, the
User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
ASUS ESC1000 G24-7
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>.
Page 90
4.4 Ai Tweaker menu
The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to congure 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 conguration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you
installed on the motherboard.
UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Target CPU Speed : 3700MHz
Target DRAM Speed : 1333MHz
Ai Overclock Tuner Auto
Turbo Ratio Auto
CPU Clock Gen Filter Auto
Memory Frequency Auto
EPU Power Saving Mode Auto
> OC Tuner
> DRAM Timing Control
> DIGI+ Power Control
> CPU Performance Settings
CPU VCORE Voltage 1.142V Offset Mode
Offset Mode Sign +
Ai Tweaker
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
AdvancedMonitorBootTool
[X.M.P.] When XMPis enabled BLCK
[X.M.P.] When XMP is enabled BLCK
frequency, CPU ratio and memory
frequency, CPU ratio and memory
parameters will be auto optimized.
parameters will be auto optimized.
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
Exit
4-8Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Page 91
Scroll down to display the following items:
CPU VCORE Offset Voltage Auto
CPU VCCSA Voltage 0.892V Offset Mode
Offset Mode Sign +
CPU VCCSA Offset Voltage Auto
DRAM Voltage (CHA, CHB) 1.504V Auto
DRAM Voltage (CHC, CHD) 1.494V Auto
CPU PLL Voltage 1.807V Auto
VTTCPU Voltage 1.062V Auto
PCH 1.1v Voltage 1.107V Auto
PCH 1.5v Voltage 1.510V Auto
VTTDDR Voltage (CHA, CHB) Auto
VTTDDR Voltage (CHC, CHD) Auto
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA Auto
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA Auto
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB Auto
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB Auto
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHC Auto
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHC Auto
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHD Auto
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHD Auto
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHA Auto
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHB Auto
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHC Auto
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHD Auto
CPU Spread Spectrum Auto
PCIE Spread Spectrum Auto
Version 2.10.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc.
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
F12: Print Screen
ASUS ESC1000 G24-9
Page 92
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 conguration options:
[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.
[Manual] Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.
[X.M.P.] If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Prole
(X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the proles supported by your
memory modules for optimizing the system performance.
The following three items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner item to
[Manual].
BCLK Frequency [XXX]
Allows you to adjust the CPU and VGA frequency to enhance the system performance.
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value
using the numeric keypad. The values range from 80.0MHz to 300.0MHz.