Asus H81M2 User Manual

H81M2

Motherboard

E8588
First Edition V1

August 2013

Copyright © 2013 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),
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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
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Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or

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owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software

This product contains copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (“GPL”),
under the Lesser General Public License Version (“LGPL”) and/or other Free Open Source Software
Licenses. Such software in this product is distributed without any warranty to the extent permitted by the
applicable law. Copies of these licenses are included in this product.

Where the applicable license entitles you to the source code of such software and/or other additional data,
you may obtain it for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product, either

(1) for free by downloading it from http://support.asus.com/download
or
(2) for the cost of reproduction and shipment, which is dependent on the preferred carrier and the location

where you want to have it shipped to, by sending a request to:

ASUSTeK Computer Inc.
Legal Compliance Dept.
15 Li Te Rd.,
Beitou, Taipei 112
Taiwan

In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the
product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we
can coordinate the terms and cost of shipment with you.

The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY and licensed under the same license as
the corresponding binary/object code.

This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information.
ASUSTeK is eager to duly provide complete source code as required under various Free Open Source

Software licenses. If however you encounter any problems in obtaining the full corresponding source
code we would be much obliged if you give us a notication to the email address [e-mail], stating
the product and describing the problem (please DO NOT send large attachments such as source code
archives, etc. to this email address).

ii

Contents

Safety information ...................................................................................... iv

About this guide ......................................................................................... iv

Package contents ....................................................................................... vi

H81M2 specications summary ................................................................ vi

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-1

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

1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................

1.4 System memory ...........................................................................

1.5 Expansion slots ............................................................................

1.6 Jumpers ......................................................................................

1.7 Connectors .................................................................................

1.8 Onboard LEDs ............................................................................

1.9 Software support ........................................................................

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 2-1

2.2 BIOS setup program ....................................................................

2.3 My Favorites ...............................................................................

2.4 Main menu ..................................................................................

2.5 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................

2.6 Advanced menu .........................................................................

2.7 Monitor menu .............................................................................

2.8 Boot menu ..................................................................................

2.9 Tools menu .................................................................................

2.10 Exit menu ....................................................................................

1-1
1-3
1-7

1-9
1-10
1-12
1-20
1-21

2-6
2-10
2-11
2-13
2-22
2-31
2-34
2-40
2-41

Appendices

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

ASUS contact information .......................................................................A-3

iii

Safety information

Electrical safety

To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet

•
before relocating the system.

When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables

•
for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,
disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all

•
power cables are unplugged.

Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices

•
could interrupt the grounding circuit.

Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not

•
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power
company.

If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service

•
technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

Before installing the motherboard and adding components, 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 be exposed to moisture.

Place the product on a stable surface.

•

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

•
technician or your retailer.

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the

motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports. It includes descriptions of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the
motherboard.

• Chapter 2: BIOS information

This chapter discusses changing system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions fo the BIOS parameters are also provided.

iv

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.

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
completing a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when
completing a task

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

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

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

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

means that you must press the enclosed key.

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

names are linked with a plus sign (+).

v

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard ASUS H81M2 motherboard

Cables 2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables

Accessories 1 x I/O Shield

Application DVD Support DVD

Documentation User Guide

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

H81M2 specications summary

CPU LGA1150 socket for 4th Generation Intel® CoreTM i7/i5/i3, Pentium®,

Celeron® Processors

Supports Intel® 22nm CPU

Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*

* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU types.
** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel® CPU support list.

Chipset Intel® H81 Express Chipset
Memory 2 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR3 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-

buffered memory*

Dual-channel memory architecture

Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)

* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs.

Please refer to the Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List) for details.

** Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List).

*** Due to Intel

®

modules on XMP mode will run at the maximum transfer rate of DDR3 1600MHz.

chipset limitation, the DDR3 1600MHz and higher memory

Graphics Integrated Graphics Processor - Intel® HD Graphics support

Multi-VGA output support: DVI-D , DVI-I ports

- Supports DVI-D with max.resolution of 1920 x 1200 @60Hz

- Supports DVI-I with max. resolution of 1920 x 1200 @60Hz

Maximum shared memory of 1024 MB

Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot

1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot

2 x PCI slots

Storage Intel® H81 Express Chipset:

- 2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connector (yellow)

- 2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connector (dark brown)

- Supports Intel

®

Rapid Technology and Intel® Smart Connect

Technology*

* Due to the limitation of the Intel® H81 chipset, Intel® Rapid Start Technology can

be congured only from the BIOS Setup program.

(continued on the next page)

vi

H81M2 specications summary

Audio Realtek® ALC887 7.1-channel Audio CODEC

LAN

USB Intel® H81 Express Chipset

ASUS unique
features

Rear panel I/O
ports

- Supports jack-detection, multi-streaming, front panel jack-restasking

* Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support aå 7.1-channel

audio output.

Realtek 8111G Gigabit LAN controller

- Supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at back panel (blue)

- 8 x USB2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at midboard, 4 ports at back panel)

ASMedia® ASM1042A USB 3.0 controller

- Supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

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

ASUS Exclusive Features

- ASUS EPU

- ASUS GPU Boost

- ASUS Anti-Surge Protection

- ASUS AI Suite 3

- ASUS Network iControl

- ASUS AI Charger

- ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

- ASUS FAN Xpert

ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)

- ASUS MyLogo 2

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple)

1 x PS/2 mouse port (green)

2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

1 x DVI-D port

1 x DVI-I port

1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

3 x Audio jacks support 8-channel audio output

(continued on the next page)

vii

H81M2 specications summary

Internal
connectors

BIOS features 64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.6,

Manageability

Support DVD Drivers

Operating
System
Support

Form factor

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

1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0/2.0 ports

2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors

2 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors

1 x 4-pin CPU fan connector

1 x 4-pin Chassis fan connector

1 x Front panel audio connector

1 x COM Header

1 x LPT Header

1 x TPM Header

1 x 24-pin ATX power connector

1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector

1 x Speaker connector

1 x System panel connector

ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFreen BIOS
3, F12 Printscreen function, F3 Shortcut function and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial
Presence Detect) memory information

WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, PXE

ASUS utilities

EZ Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

Windows® 8

Windows® 7

uATX form factor: 9.6”x 7.8” (24.4cm x 19.8cm)

viii

Specications are subject to change without notice.

Product introduction

1

1.1 Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change
any motherboard settings.

• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.

• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due
to static electricity.

• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.

• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the
bag that came with the component.

• Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so
may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.

1.2 Motherboard overview

Before you install the motherboard, study the conguration of your chassis to ensure that the
motherboard ts.

Unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can
cause you physical injury and damage to motherboard components.

1.2.1 Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge
with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image.

1.2.2 Screw holes

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

Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

ASUS H81M2

1-1

H81M2

H81M2

PCIEX16

PCIEX1_1

PCI1

PCI2

RTL

8111G

COM

TPM

AAFP

EATXPWR

CPU_FAN

BATTERY

Super

I/O

ALC

887-VD2

ASM
1083

KBMS

8MB
BIOS

SB_PWR

CLRTC

USBPWF

KB_USBPWB

SPEAKER

19.8cm(7.8in)

DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

SATA6G_1 SATA6G_2 SATA3G_1 SATA3G_2

AUDIO

LAN_USB3_12

USB3456

CHA_FAN

24.4cm(9.6in)

LGA1150

DIGI

+VRM

Intel

®

H81

ATX12V

F_PANEL

USB1112 USB910

DVI

DVI-I

LPT

USB3_E12

21 43 65 1

15 1012161718 14 13

3

7

8

9

11

Place this side

towards the rear

of the chassis

1.2.3 Motherboard layout

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.4 Layout contents

H81M2

H81M2 CPU socket LGA1150

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page

1. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN) 1-16

2. Keyboard and USB device wake-up (KB_USBPWB) 1-11

3. ATX power connectors (24-pin ATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) 1-14

4. Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM) 1-17

5. Intel® LGA1150 CPU socket 1-3

6. DDR3 DIMM slots 1-7

7. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_E12) 1-19

8. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER) 1-19

9. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL) 1-18

10. Intel® H81 Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connector (7-pin SATA3G_1~2 [dark brown]) 1-15

11. Intel® H81 Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connector (7-pin SATA6G_1~2 [yellow]) 1-15

12. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112) 1-17

13. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-10

14. USB device wake-up (USBPWF) 1-12

15. LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT) 1-19

16. Onboard LED (SB_PWR) 1-20

17. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-15

18. TPM header (20-1 pin TPM) 1-14

1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

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

ASUS H81M2

1-3

A

B

Unplug all power cables before installing the CPU.

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

• Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and
the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap
is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard
components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/
transit-related.

• Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise

Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the

LGA1150 socket.

• The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from
incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP
cap.

1.3.1 Installing the CPU

1

1-4

2

3

Chapter 1: Product introduction

A

B

C

4

5

1.3.2 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation

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

ASUS H81M2

1-5

To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

1

B

A

B

A

3 4

2

To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

1

1-6

2

B

A

B

A

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.4 System memory

H81M2

H81M2 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets

DIMM_A1

DIMM_B1

1.4.1 Overview

This motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Module
(DIMM) sockets. 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.

According to Intel® CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect the
CPU.

Channel Sockets

Channel A DIMM_A1

Channel B DIMM_B1

1.4.2 Memory congurations

You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM
sockets.

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

• Due to Intel

mode will run at the maximum transfer rate of DDR3 1600MHz.

• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimal compatibility, we
recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or date code (D/C)
from the same vendor. Check with the retailer to get the correct memory modules.

• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:

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

- Install a 64-bit Windows

• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less.

®

chipset limitation, DDR3 1600MHz and higher memory modules on XMP

®

OS, when you install 4GB

®

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

motherboard.

®

OS.

ASUS H81M2

1-7

• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 2.5 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.

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

memory load (2 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

• Visit the ASUS website at:

1.4.3 Installing a DIMM

Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components.
Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.

www.asus.com for the latest QVL.

1. Press the retaining clips
outward to unlock a DIMM
socket.

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

1

Unlocked retaining clip

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. Firmly insert the DIMM into the

DIMM slot key

3

socket until the retaining clips snap
back in place and the DIMM is
properly seated.

1.4.4 Removing a DIMM

Locked Retaining Clip

To remove a DIMM:

1. Simultaneously press the retaining clips outward to unlock the DIMM.

2

DIMM notch

1

1-8

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Support the DIMM lightly with

your ngers when pressing the

retaining clips. The DIMM might

get damaged when it ips out

with extra force.

2

1

DIMM notch

2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

1.5 Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe
the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

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

1.5.1 Installing an expansion card

To install 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. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).

3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later
use.

4. Align the card connector with the slot and press rmly until the card is completely

seated on the slot.

5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.

6. Replace the system cover.

1

1.5.2 Conguring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings.

1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for
information on BIOS setup.

2. Assign an IRQ to the card.

3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that

the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conicts will arise between the two PCI

groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.

ASUS H81M2

1-9

1.5.3 PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots

H81M2

H81M2 Clear RTC RAM

1 2 2 3

Normal

(Default)

Clear RTC

CLRTC

This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that

comply with the PCI Express specications.

1.5.4 PCI Express x16 slot

This motherboard has a PCI Express x16 slot that supports PCI Express x16 graphic cards

complying with the PCI Express specications.

1.5.3 PCI slots

The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that

comply with PCI specications.

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

A B C D E F G H

LAN
PCIE x16_1
PCIE x1_1
PCIE x1_2
PCIE x1_3
Intel PCH SATA Controller
HD Audio
USB2.0_1
USB2.0_2
USB3.0

– – shared – – – – –

shared – – – – – – –

– – shared – – – – –
– – – shared – – – –

shared – – – – – – –

– – – shared – – – –
– – – – – – shared –
– – – – – – – shared
– – – – shared – – –
– – – – – shared – –

1.6 Jumpers

1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)

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.

1-10

Chapter 1: Product introduction

2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3

H81M2

H81M2 Keyboard and USB device wake up

1 2

2 3

+5V

+5VSB

(Default)

KB_USBPWB

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 clearing the CMOS, 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 CPU Parameter Recall (C.P.R.) feature.
Shut down and reboot the system, then the BIOS automatically resets parameter
settings to default values.

2. Keyboard and USB device wake-up (KB_USBPWB)

This jumper allows you to enable or disable the P/S 2 device wake-up feature. When
you set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB), you can wake up the computer by pressing a
key on the P/S 2 keyboard or by clicking on the P/S 2 mouse. This feature requires an
ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding
setting in the BIOS.

ASUS H81M2

1-11

3. USB device wake-up (USBPWF)

H81M2

H81M2 USB device wake up

21

2 3

+5V

(Default)

+5VSB

USBPWF

3

7

4 5

6

1

10

9 8

2

This jumper allows you to enable or disable the USB device wake-up feature. When
you set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB), you can wake up the computer by pressing a
key on the USB keyboard or by clicking on the USB mouse. This feature requires an
ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding
setting in the BIOS.

1.7 Connectors

1.7.1 Rear panel connectors

1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.

2. USB 2.0 ports.

devices.

3. LAN (RJ-45) port.

through a network hub.

LAN port LED indications

Activity/Link LED Speed LED
Status Description Status Description

Off No link OFF 10Mbps connection
Orange Linked ORANGE 100Mbps

Orange (Blinking) Data activity GREEN 1Gbps connection
Orange (Blinking

then steady)

1-12

These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB 2.0/1.1

This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN)

LED

LAN port

Speed

LED

connection

Activity Link

Ready to wake
up from S5 mode

Chapter 1: Product introduction

4. Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other

audio sources.

5. Line Out port (lime).

This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In the 4.1, 5.1

and 7.1-channel congurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.

6. Microphone port (pink). This port connects to a microphone.

Refer to the audio conguration table for the function of the audio ports in 2.1, 4.1, 5.1, or

7.1-channel conguration.

Audio 2.1, 4.1, 5.1, or 7.1-channel conguration

output.

Headset

2.1-

channel

4.1-channel 5.1-channel 7.1-channel

Port

Light Blue (Rear panel) Line In Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out
Lime (Rear panel) Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Pink (Rear panel) Mic In Mic In Bass/Center Bass/Center
Lime (Front panel) - - - Side Speaker Out

To congure an 7.1-channel audio output:

Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support an 7.1-channel audio

7. USB 3.0 ports These two 9-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB 3.0

devices.

• DO NOT connect a keyboard / mouse to any USB 3.0 port when installing Windows
operating system.

• Due to USB 3.0 controller limitations, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under a
Windows® OS environment and after USB 3.0 driver installation.

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

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

®

8. DVI-I port. This port is for any DVI-I compatible device and are HDCP compliant,

allowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-ray, and other protected content.

9. DVI-D port. This port is for any DVI-D compatible device. DVI-D can’t be converted to

output RGB Signal to CRT and is not compatible with DVI-I male solder connector.

10. PS/2 keyboard port (purple).

ASUS H81M2

This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

1-13

1.7.2 Internal connectors

H81M2

H81M2 ATX power connectors

EATXPWR

PIN 1

GND
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
+5 Volts

-5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
PSON#
GND

-12 Volts
+3 Volts

+3 Volts

+12 Volts
+12 Volts

+5V Standby

Power OK

GND

+5 Volts

GND

+5 Volts

GND
+3 Volts
+3 Volts

ATX12V

PIN 1

+12V DC

+12V DC

GND

GND

H81M2

H81M2 TPM Connector

PIN 1

TPM

SB_SUS_STAT

GND

+3VSB

SMBSCL

LAD0

+3V

LAD3

PCIRST#

FRAME

PCICLK

RESET

GPIO

SERIRQ

SMBSDA

GND

LAD1

LAD2

PWROWN

GND

1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)

These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are

designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and
push down rmly until the connectors completely t.

•

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

minimum power of 350W.

•

DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12V power plug. Otherwise, the system will
not boot up.

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

system with more power-consuming devices or when you intend to install additional
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.

2. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

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

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

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

The TPM module is purchased separately.

1-14

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

H81M2

H81M2 Front panel audio connector

AAFP

AGNDNCSENSE1_RETUR

SENSE2_RETUR

PORT1 L

PORT1 R

PORT2 R

SENSE_SEND

PORT2 L

HD-audio-compliant

pin definition

PIN 1

AGNDNCNC

NC

MIC2

MICPWR

Line out_R

NC

Line out_L

Legacy AC’97

compliant definition

SATA6G_1

GND

RSATA_RXP1

RSATA_RXN1

GND

RSATA_TXN1

RSATA_TXP1

GND

SATA6G_2

GND

RSATA_RXP2

RSATA_RXN2

GND

RSATA_TXN2

RSATA_TXP2

GND

H81M2

H81M2 SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors

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

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

• If you want to connect a high-denition 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]. See section 2.6.7 Onboard Devices Conguration for
details.

4. Intel® H81 Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connector (7-pin SATA6G_1~2 [yellow])

This connector connects to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s
signal cables.

• You must install Windows. XP Service Pack 3 or later version before using Serial ATA
hard disk drives.

• When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the SATA Mode Selection item in the BIOS to [AHCI].
See section 2.6.3 SATA Conguration for details.

ASUS H81M2

1-15

5. Intel® H81 Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connector (7-pin SATA3G_1~2)

H81M2

H81M2 SATA 3.0Gb/s connectors

SATA3G_1

GND

RSATA_RXP1

RSATA_RXN1

GND

RSATA_TXN1

RSATA_TXP1

GND

SATA3G_2

GND

RSATA_RXP2

RSATA_RXN2

GND

RSATA_TXN2

RSATA_TXP2

GND

CHA_FAN

CPU_FAN

CPU FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWR

GND

CHA FAN PWM

CHA FAN IN

CHA FAN PWR

GND

H81M2

H81M2 Fan connectors

This connector connects to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s
signal cables.

• You must install Windows. XP Service Pack 3 or later version before using Serial ATA
hard disk drives.

• When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the SATA Mode Selection item in the BIOS to [AHCI].

6. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN)

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

Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air ow inside

the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not
place jumper caps on the fan connectors! The CPU_FAN connector supports a CPU fan of
maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.

Only the 4-pin CPU fan supports the ASUS Fan Xpert feature.

1-16

Chapter 1: Product introduction

7. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112)

H81M2

H81M2 USB2.0 connectors

PIN 1

USB+5V

USB_P11-

USB_P11+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P12-

USB_P12+

GND

USB1112 USB910

PIN 1

USB+5V

USB_P9-

USB_P9+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P10-

USB_P10+

GND

H81M2

H81M2 Serial port connectors

PIN 1

COM

DCD

TXD

GND

RTS

RI

RXD

DTR

DSR

CTS

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

chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specications and supports up to

480Mbps connection speed.

Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

8. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM)

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.

ASUS H81M2

1-17

9. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)

H81M2

PIN 1

PWR BTN

PWR_LED+

PWR_LED-

PWR

GND

HDD_LED+

HDD_LED-

Ground

HWRST#

(NC)

F_PANEL

+PWR LED

+HDD_LED RESET

H81M2 System panel connector

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

• System power LED (2-pin PWR_LED)

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

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

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

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

to the HDD.

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

This connector is for the system power button.

• 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.

1-18

Chapter 1: Product introduction

H81M2

H81M2 USB3.0 Front panel connector

USB3_E12

USB3+5V
IntA_P1_SSRX­IntA_P1_SSRX+
IntA_P1_SSTX­GND
IntA_P1_SSTX+
GND
IntA_P1_D­IntA_P1_D+
GND

PIN 1

USB3+5V

IntA_P2_SSRX-

IntA_P2_SSRX+

GND

IntA_P2_SSTX-

IntA_P2_SSTX+

GND

IntA_P2_D-

IntA_P2_D+

H81M2

H81M2 Parallel Port Connector

PIN 1

LPT

STB#

PD0

PD1

PD2

PD3

PD4

PD5

PD6

PD7

ACK#

BUSY

PE

SLCT

AFD

ERR#

INIT#

SLIN#

GND

GND

GND

GND

GND

GND

GND

GND

10. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)

+5V

GND

GND

Speaker Out

SPEAKER

PIN 1

H81M2

H81M2 Speaker Out connector

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

11. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_E12)

This connector is for additional USB 3.0 ports. Connect the USB 3.0 bracket cable to
this connector, then install the USB 3.0 bracket to the rear side of the chassis. If your
chassis supports front panel ports, you can use the ASUS USB 3.0 header to install
additional front panel USB 3.0 ports.

12. LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT)

The LPT (Line Printing Terminal) connector supports devices such as a printer. LPT

standardizes as IEEE 1284, which is the parallel port interface on IBM PC-compatible

computers.

ASUS H81M2

1-19

1.8 Onboard LEDs

SB_PWR

ON

Standby Power

Powered Off

OFF

H81M2

H81M2 Onboard LED

1. Standby Power LED

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.

1-20

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.9 Software support

1.9.1 Installing an operating system

This motherboard supports Windows® 7 (32bit/64bit) and Windows® 8 (32bit/64bit) Operating

Systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize

the features of your hardware.

Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for
detailed information.

1.9.2 Support DVD information

The Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software
applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.

The contents of the Support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the
ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates.

To run the Support DVD

Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. If Autorun is enabled in your computer, the
DVD automatically displays the Specials screen which lists the unique features of your ASUS
motherboard. Click Drivers, Utilities, AHCI Driver, Manual, Contact and Specials tabs to
display their respective menus.

The following screen is for reference only.

Click an item to install

If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the Support DVD to

locate the le ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run

the DVD.

ASUS H81M2

Click an icon to
display Support
DVD/motherboard
information

1-21

BIOS information

2

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a USB ash disk in case you need to

restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update
utility.

2.1.1 EZ Update

EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s softwares,
drivers and the BIOS version easily. With this utlity, you can also manually update the saved
BIOS and select a boot logo when the system goes into POST.

To launch EZ Update, click EZ Update on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar.

Click to automatically

update your

motherboard’s

driver, software and

rmware

ASUS H81M2

Click to nd and

select the BIOS

from le

EZ Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an ISP (Internet
Service Provider).

Click to select a

boot logo

Click to update
the BIOS

2-1

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2

The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based
utility.

Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website at

www.asus.com.

To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:

1. Insert the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS le to the USB port.

2. Enter the

ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.

3. Press <Tab> to switch to the

4. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to nd the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS,

and then press <Enter>.

5. Press <Tab> to switch to the

6. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to nd the BIOS le, and then press <Enter> to perform

the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.

Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select

Drive eld.

Folder Info eld.

• This function supports USB ash disks formatted using FAT32/16 on a single partition

only.

• Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.

Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. .

• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system

boot failure!

2-2

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS le

when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS

le using the motherboard support DVD or a USB ash drive that contains the updated BIOS
le.

• Before using this utility, rename the BIOS le in the removable device into

H81M2.CAP.

• The BIOS le in the support DVD may not be the latest version. Download the latest
BIOS le from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

Recovering the BIOS

To recover the BIOS:

1. Turn on the system.

2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the USB ash drive that contains the
BIOS le to the USB port.

3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS le. When found, the utility
reads the BIOS le and enters ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility automatically.

4. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS settings. To ensure
system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press <F5> to load default
BIOS values.

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause
system boot failure!

2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater

The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in a DOS environment. This utility also

allows you to copy the current BIOS le that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or

gets corrupted during the updating process.

The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may
not be same as shown.

Before updating BIOS

1. Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB ash drive formatted using

FAT32/16 on a single partition.

Download the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at

2.

http://support.asus.com and save them on the USB ash drive.

NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS le and BIOS
Updater to a hard disk drive or USB ash drive in NTFS format.

3. Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).

ASUS H81M2

2-3

Booting the system to a DOS environment

1. Insert the DOS-bootable USB ash drive with the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater to

your computer’s USB port.

2. Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the

BIOS

Boot Device Select Menu.

3. Select the optical drive as the boot device. The DOS screen appears.

Updating the BIOS le

To update the BIOS le using BIOS Updater:

1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type

bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>.

2. The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.

ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30

H81M2

0208

09/02/2013

H81M2.CAP 8390656 2013-09-02 15:25:48

2-4

Chapter 2: Getting started

3. Press <Tab> to switch between screen elds and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys
to select the BIOS le and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS le
and prompts you to conrm BIOS update.

4. Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS
Updater. Restart your computer.

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!

• For BIOS Updater version 1.30 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS
prompt after updating BIOS.

• Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.

Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. Refer to section 2.10
Exit menu for details.

• Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS le if you have

disconnected them.

ASUS H81M2

2-5

2.2 BIOS setup program

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

screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup
program.

Entering BIOS Setup at startup

To enter BIOS Setup at startup:

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

•
POST continues with its routines.

Entering BIOS Setup after POST

To enter BIOS Setup after POST:

Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.

•

Press the reset button on the system chassis.

•

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

•

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

Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force reset from a
running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We recommend you
always shut down the system properly from the operating system.

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

• Visit the ASUS website at
motherboard.

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

• If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized
Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey F5. See section 2.10 Exit Menu
for details.

• If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and
reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 1.6 Jumpers for information
on how to erase the RTC RAM.

www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS le for this

BIOS menu screen

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

2-6

Chapter 2: Getting started

EZ Mode

By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ
Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select
the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access the
Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode or press F7 for the
advanced BIOS settings.

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

Setup Mode item in section 2.8 Boot menu for details.

Displays the CPU/motherboard
temperature, CPU voltage output,
and CPU/chassis fan speed

Selects the
Advanced
mode functions

Selects the boot
device priority

Power saving
mode

Displays the
Advanced mode
menus

• 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.

Selects the display language
of the BIOS setup program

Normal mode

ASUS Optimal
mode

Selects the boot
device priority

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

Loads
optimized
default

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

Advanced Mode

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

To access the EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode or press F7.

ASUS H81M2

2-7

General helpMenu bar

Navigation keys

Last modied

settings

Quick note

Submenu item

Conguration eldsMenu itemsBack button

Pop-up window

Scroll bar

Menu bar

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

My Favorites For saving the frequently-used system settings and conguration
Main For changing the basic system conguration
Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings
Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Monitor

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

Boot For changing the system boot conguration
Tool For conguring options for special functions
Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

Menu items

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

selecting Main shows the Main menu items.

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

Back button

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

2-8

Chapter 2: Getting started

Submenu items

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

Pop-up window

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

options for that item.

Scroll bar

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

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

Navigation keys

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

For the navigation key, it’s only available in English. If you delete the default shortcuts, they
will appear on your next system bootup.

General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.

Conguration elds

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

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

press <Enter> to display a list of options.

Quick Note button

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

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

• You can only use the English letters to type your notes.

Last Modied button

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

ASUS H81M2

2-9

2.3 My Favorites

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

BIOS items.

Adding items to My Favorites

To add frequently-used BIOS items to My Favorites:

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

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

2-10

You cannot add the following items to My Favorites:

• Items with submenu options

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

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

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.4 Main menu

The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup
program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and
allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings.

2.4.1 System Language [English]

Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Conguration options:

[English] [Español] [Русский] [

2.4.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]

Allows you to set the system date.

2.4.3 System Time [xx:xx:xx]

Allows you to set the system time.

한국어]

2.4.4 Security

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

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

RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.6 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.

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

ASUS H81M2

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

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

2-11

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the

2. From the
<Enter>.

3. From the

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

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

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

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

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

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

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

User Password

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

To set a user password:

1. Select the

2. From the

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change a user password:

1. Select the

2. From the
<Enter>.

3. From the

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

User Password item and press <Enter>.

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

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>.

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

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

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

2-12

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.5 Ai Tweaker menu

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

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

values can cause the system to malfunction.

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

installed on the motherboard.

Scroll down to display the other items.

Target CPU Turbo-Mode Speed : xxxxMHz

Displays the target CPU Turbo-Mode speed.

Target DRAM Speed : xxxxMHz

Displays the target DRAM speed.

Target Cache Speed : xxxxMHz

Displays the target Cache speed.

Target DMI/PEG Clock : xxxxMHz

Displays the target DMI/PEG clock.

Target CPU Graphics Speed : xxxxMHz

Displays the target iGPU speed.

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2.5.1 ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Auto]

[Auto] Default set to [Auto] for maximum performance under XMP/Manual/User-

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

dened memory frequency mode.

2.5.2 CPU Core Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU core ratio automatically or manually.

[Auto] Sets all CPU Core Ratio to Intel

[Sync All Cores] Allows you to set CPU Core Ratio settings for all cores.

[Per Core] Allows you to set CPU Core Ratio individually.

The following two items appear only when you set the CPU Core Ratio to [Sync All

Cores] or [Per Core].

1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

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

2-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

This item becomes congurable only when you set CPU Core Ratio to [Per Core] and
allows you to set the 2-Core Ratio Limit. Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo
Ratio setting or manually assign a 2-Core Ratio Limit value that is higher than or equal
to the 3-Core Ratio Limit. 1-Core Limit must not be set to [Auto].

3-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

This item becomes congurable only when you set CPU Core Ratio to [Per Core] and
allows you to set the 3-Core Ratio Limit. Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo
Ratio setting or manually assign a 3-Core Ratio Limit value that is higher than or equal
to the 4-Core Ratio Limit. 1-Core/2-Core Ratio Limit must not be set to [Auto].

4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

This item becomes congurable only when you set CPU Core Ratio to [Per Core] and
allows you to set the 4 Core Ratio Limit. Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo
Ratio setting or manually assign a 4-Core Ratio Limit value that is higher than or equal
to the 3-Core Ratio Limit. 1-Core/2-Core/3-Core Limit must not be set to [Auto].

®

CPU default settings automatically.

2.5.3 Min. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the uncore ratio of the processor to its possible minimum value.

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] ~ [30].

2.5.4 Max. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the uncore ratio of the processor to its possible maximum value.

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] ~ [30].

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Chapter 2: Getting started

2.5.5 BCLK Frequency : DRAM Frequency Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the BCLK frequency to DRAM frequency ratio.

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

[100:133] The BCLK frequency to DRAM frequency ratio is set to 100:133.

[100:100] The BCLK frequency to DRAM frequency ratio is set to 100:100.

2.5.6 DRAM Frequency [Auto]

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

BCLK/PEG Frequency item settings.

Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default setting.

2.5.7 Max. CPU Graphics Ratio [Auto]

[Auto] The iGPU frequency is set to its optimized setting depending on the system

[Manaul] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the optimal iGPU frequency value. The

loading.

frequency may vary depending on the system loading.

2.5.8 GPU Boost [As is]

Allows you to enable the GPU Boost to accelerate the integrated GPU for extreme graphics

performance. Conguration options: [As is] [Enabled].

2.5.9 EPU Power Saving Mode [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function. Conguration options: [Auto]

[Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.10 DRAM Timing Control

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

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

Primary Timings

DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]

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

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]

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

ASUS H81M2

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DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]

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

DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]

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

DRAM COMMAND Rate [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] [2 DRAM Clock] [3 DRAM Clock]

Secondary Timings

DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]

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

DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]

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

DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto]

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

DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]

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

DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]

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

DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]

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

DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]

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

DRAM CKE Minimum pulse width [Auto]

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

DRAM CAS# Write Latency [Auto]

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

RTL IOL control

DRAM RTL Initial Value [Auto]

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

DRAM RTL (CHA) [Auto]

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

DRAM RTL (CHB) [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHA) [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHB) [Auto]

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

Third Timings

tRDRD [Auto]

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

2-16

Chapter 2: Getting started

tRDRD_dr [Auto]

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

tRDRD_dd [Auto]

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

tWRRD [Auto]

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

tWRRD_dr [Auto]

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

tWRRD_dd [Auto]

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

tWRWR [Auto]

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

tWRWR_dr [Auto]

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

tWRWR_dd [Auto]

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

Dec_WRD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1]

tRDWR [Auto]

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

tRDWR_dr [Auto]

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

tRDWR_dd [Auto]

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

MISC

MRC Fast Boot [Auto]

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

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

DRAM CLK Period [Auto]

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

Channel A DIMM Control [Enable Bot...]

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

[Disable Both DIMMS]

Channel B DIMM Control [Enable Bot...]

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

[Disable Both DIMMS]

Scrambler Setting [Optimized ...]

Conguration options: [Optimized (ASUS)] [Default (MRC)]

ASUS H81M2

2-17

2.5.11 CPU Power Management

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

Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).

[Disabled] Disables this function.

[Enabled] The operating system dynamically adjusts the processor voltage and

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

Allows you to enable your core processor’s speed to run faster than the marked frequency in

a specic condition. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Turbo Mode Parameters

CPU Internal Power Switching Frequency

CPU Internal Power Fault Control

core frequency which may result in decreased average consumption and
decreased average heat production.

• Turbo Mode is only available on selected CPU models only.

• The following rst three items appear only when you set the Turbo Mode to

[Enabled].

Long Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Allows you to limit the turbo ratio’s long duration package power.

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

Package Power Time Window [Auto]

Allows you to set the package power time window.

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

Short Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Allows you to limit the turbo ratio’s long duration power.

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

CPU Integrated VR Current Limit [Auto]

Allows you to limit the CPU Integrated VR current

Use <+> and <-> key to adjust the value.

Frequency Tuning Mode [Auto]

Allows you to set the frequency tuning mode. Conguration options: [Auto]

[+] [-]

Thermal Feedback [Auto]

When enabled, it allows CPU to take precautionary actions when the

thermal of the external regulator exceeds the limit.Conguration options:

[Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU Integrated VR Fault Management [Auto]

Allows you to manage the CPU Integrated VR fault. Conguration options:

[Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

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Chapter 2: Getting started

CPU Internal Power Configuration

CPU Integrated VR Efciency Management [Auto]

Allows you to manage the CPU integrated VR efciency. Conguration

options: [Auto] [High Performance] [Balanced]

Power Decay Mode [Auto]

Enable to improve power saving on the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator

as the processor enters low current mode. Conguration options: [Auto]

[Disabled] [Enabled]

Idle Power-in Response [Auto]

Allows you to set the idle power-in response. Conguration options: [Auto] [Regular]

[Fast]

Idle Power-out Response [Auto]

Allows you to set the idle power-out response. Conguration options: [Auto] [Regular]

[Fast]

Power Current Slope [Auto]

Allows you to set the power current slope. Conguration options: [Auto] [Level -4] ~

[Level 4].

Power Current Offset [Auto]

Allows you to set the power current offset. Conguration options: [Auto] [100%] [87.5%]
[75%] [62.5%] [50%] [37.5%] [25%] [12.5%] [0%] [-12.5%] [-25%] [-37.5%] [-50.0%]
[-62.5%] [-75%] [-87.5%] [-100%]

Power Fast Ramp Response [Auto]

Allows you to increase to enhance the response of the voltage regulator during the

load transient. Congurations: [Auto] [0.00] - [1.50].

CPU Internal Power Saving Control

Power Saving Level 1 Threshhold [Auto]

Allows you to set the power saving level 1 threshhold.

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

Power Saving Level 2 Threshhold [Auto]

Allows you to set the power saving level 2 threshhold.

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

Power Saving Level 3 Threshhold [Auto]

Allows you to set the power saving level 3 threshhold.

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

2.5.12 CPU Core Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the cores of the processor. Increase the
amount of voltage when increasing core frequency. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual

Mode]

CPU Core Voltage Override [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Manual Mode] and allows you
to set the CPU core voltage override. The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V
interval.

ASUS H81M2

2-19

2.5.13 CPU Cache Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to set the CPU cache voltage. Increase the cache voltage when

increasing the ring frequency. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode]

CPU Cache Voltage Override [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU Cache Voltage to [Manual Mode] and allows
you to set the CPU cache voltage override. The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a

0.001V interval.

2.5.14 CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to set the CPU graphics voltage. Increase the graphics voltage when

increasing the iGPU frequency. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode]

[Adaptive Mode].

CPU Graphics Voltage Override [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Manual Mode] and allows
you to set the CPU graphics voltage override. The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with
a 0.001V interval.

Offset Mode Sign [+]

This item appears only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Offset Mode] or [Adaptive

Mode] and allows you to set the offset mode sign. Conguration options: [+] [-]

CPU Graphics Voltage Offset [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Offset Mode] or
[Adaptive Mode] and allows you to set the CPU graphics voltage offset. The values
range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

Additional Turbo Mode CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Adaptive Mode] and
allows you to set the additional turbo mode CPU graphics voltage. The values range from

0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

Total Adaptive Mode CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Adaptive Mode] and
allows you to set the total adaptive mode CPU graphics voltage. The values range from

0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

2.5.15 CPU System Agent Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+]

This item allows you to set the CPU system agent voltage offset mode sign. Conguration

options: [+] [-].

CPU System Agent Voltage Offset [Auto]

This item allows you to set the CPU system agent voltage offset. Increase the value when
increasing DRAM frequency. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

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Chapter 2: Getting started

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

This item allows you to set the CPU analog I/O voltage offset mode sign. Conguration

options: [+] [-].

CPU Analog I/O Voltage Offset [Auto]

This item allows you to set the CPU analog I/O voltage offset. Increase the value when

increasing DRAM frequency. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

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

This item allows you to set the CPU digital I/O voltage offset mode sign. Conguration

options: [+] [-].

CPU Digital I/O Voltage Offset [Auto]

This item allows you to set the CPU digital I/O voltage offset. Increase the value when

increasing DRAM frequency. The values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

2.5.18 SVID Control [Auto]

Disabling SVID Support stops the processor from commmunicating with the external voltage

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

• We recommend that you disable this function when overclocking.

• The following item appears only when you set SVID Support to

SVID Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the SVID Voltage override. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the
value. The values range from 0.001V to 2.440V with a 0.001V interval.

[Enabled].

2.5.19 DRAM Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM Voltage. The values range from 1.500V to 1.650V with a 0.05V
interval.

According to Intel CPU specications, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may

damage the CPU permanently. We recommend that you install the DIMMs with the voltage
requirement below 1.65V.

ASUS H81M2

2-21

2.6 Advanced menu

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

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

can cause the system to malfunction.

2.6.1 CPU Conguration

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

The items shown in submenu may be different due to the CPU you installed.

Intel® Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]

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

[Disabled] Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.

Active Processor Cores [All]

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

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

Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]

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

[Disabled] Disables this function.

with extended CPUID functions.

Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]

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

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

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Chapter 2: Getting started

Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]

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

[Disabled] Disables this function.

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

Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]

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

[Disabled] Disables this function.

prefetch data and codes for the CPU.

Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]

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

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Boot performance mode [Max Non-Tu...]

This item allows you to select the boot performance mode. Conguration options: [Max Non-

Turbo Performance] [Max battery] [Turbo Performance]

CPU Power Management Conguration

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

EIST [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).
[Disabled] The CPU runs at its default speed.
[Enabled] The operating system controls the CPU speed.

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

Allows you to set the processor cores to run faster than the marked frequency in a

specic condition. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Turbo Mode is only available on selected CPU models only.

CPU C states [Auto]

[Auto] Automatic conguration.

[Enabled] Enables the CPU C states.

[Disabled] Disables the CPU C states.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU C states to [Enabled].

Enhanced C1 state [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables enhanced C1 state.

[Disabled] Disables enhanced C1 state.

ASUS H81M2

2-23

CPU C3 Report [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS. Conguration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

CPU C6 report [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS. Conguration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

C6 Latency [Short]

Allows you to choose short or long latency for C6. Conguration options: [Short] [Long]

CPU C7 report [CPU C7s]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C7 report to OS. Conguration options:

[Disabled] [CPU C7] [CPU C7s]

C7 Latency [Long]

Allows you to choose short or long latency for C6. Conguration options: [Short] [Long]

Package C State Support [Auto]

Allows you to disable or enable the whole C-State package support. Conguration

options: [Auto] [Enabled] [C0/C1] [C2] [C3] [C6] [CPU C7] [CPU C7s]

2.6.2 PCH Conguration

PCI Express Conguration

DMI Link ASPM Control [Auto]

Allows you to control the Active State Power Managemennt on both NB and SB side of

the DMI Link. Conguration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]

ASPM Support [Disabled]

Allows you to set the ASPM support. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [L0s] [L1]

L0sL1].

PCIe Speed [Auto]

Allows you to select the PCI Express port speed. Conguration options: [Auto] [Gen1]

[Gen2]

Intel® Rapid Start Technology

Intel® Rapid Start Technology [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable Intel® Rapid Start Technology. Conguration options:
[Enabled] [Disabled]

2-24

The following items appear only when you set the Intel® Rapid Start Technology to

[Enabled].

Entry on S3 RTC Wake [Enabled]

The system automatically wakes up and set to Rapid Start Technology S4 mode.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Chapter 2: Getting started

Entry After [x]

Allows you to set the wake-up time.The values range from 0 (immediately) to 120.

Active Page Threshold Support [Enabled]

The system automatically set itself to sleep when the partition size is not enough for
Rapid Start Technology to work. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Active Memory Threshold [0]

Key in the value for the additional partition size for Rapid Start Technology to work.

Ensure that the caching partition size is larger than the total memory size.

Hybrid Hard Disk Support [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable hybrid hard disk support.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Intel® Smart Connect Technology [Disabled]

ISCT Support [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the ISCT support. Conguration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

2.6.3 SATA Conguration

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The
SATA Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA
port.

SATA Mode Selection [AHCI]

Allows you to set the SATA conguration.

[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.

[IDE] Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as

[AHCI] Set to [AHCI] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the AHCI

Aggressive LPM Support [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [AHCI] and allows you to enable or

disable PCH entering link power state aggressively. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

[Enabled]

Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

(Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard storage
driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases storage
performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally

optimize the order of commands.

ASUS H81M2

2-25

S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled]

S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When
read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning

messages during the POST. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Hot Plug [Disabled]

These items appear only when you set the SATA Mode Selection item to [AHCI] and allow

you to enable/disable SATA Hot Plug Support. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.4 System Agent Conguration

CPU Audio Device [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable CPU SA Audio Device. Conguration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

DVI Port Audio [Disabled]

This item appears only when you set the CPU Audio Device item to [Enabled]. This item

allows you to enable or disable the DVI audio port. Conguration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

Graphics Conguration

Allows you to select a primary display from iGPU, and PCIe graphical devices.

Primary Display [Auto]

Allows you to select which of the iGPU/PCIE Graphics device should be the Primary

Display. Conguration options: [Auto] [iGPU] [PCIE] [PCI]

iGPU Memory [Auto]

Allows you to select the amount of system memory allocated to DVMT 5.0 used by the

iGPU. Conguration options: [Auto] [32M] [64M] [96M] [128M] [160M] [192M] [224M]

[256M] [288M][320M] [352M] [384M] [416M] [448M] [480M] [512M] [1024M]

Render Standby [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable Intel® Graphics Render Standby support to reduce

iGPU power use when the system is idle. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

[Enabled]

iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled]

Set this item to [Enabled] to empower both integrated and discrete graphics for

multiple-monitor output. The iGPU shared system memory size will be xed at 64MB.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DMI Conguration

Allows you to control various DMI functions.

DMI Gen 2 [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable DMI Gen 2. Conguration options: [Auto] [Enabled]

[Disabled]

2-26

Chapter 2: Getting started

NB PCIe Conguration

Allows you to congure the NB PCI Express settings.

PCIEX16_1 Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to congure the PCIEX16_1 speed. Conguration options: [Auto] [Gen1]

[Gen2]

DMI Link ASPM Control [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable the control of Active State Power Management on SA

side of the DMI Link. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [L0s] [L1] [L0sL1]

PEG - ASPM [Disabled]

Allows you to control ASPM support for the PEG Device. The setting takes no effect if

PEG is not the active device at present. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [ASPM

L0s] [ASPM L1] [ASPM L0sL1]

Memory Conguration

Memory Scrambler [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable Memory Scrambler support.

Memory Remap [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable remapping the memory above 4GB.
[Enabled] Enables the function.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

2.6.5 USB Conguration

The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.

The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the
item shows None.

Legacy USB Support [Enabled]

[Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).

[Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If

detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is
detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.

Intel xHCI Mode [Smart Auto]

[Smart Auto] Enables the operation of xHCI controller.

[Auto] Keeps the last operation of xHCI controller in OS during bootup.

[Enabled] Enables the function.

[Disabled] Disables the function.

ASUS H81M2

2-27

EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off

[Disabled] Disables the function.

feature.

USB Single Port Control

USB3_1~2 [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable an individual USB port. Refer to the section 1.2.3

Motherboard layout in this user manual for the locations of the USB ports.

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

USB_3~6, 9~12 [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable an individual USB port. Refer to the section 1.2.3

Motherboard layout in this user manual for the locations of the USB ports.

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

2.6.6 Platform Misc Conguration

The items in this menu allow you to congure the Platform Misc.

PCI Express Native Power Management [Disabled]

Allows you to enhance the power saving feature of PCI Express and perform ASPM

operations in the operating system. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.7 Onboard Devices Conguration

HD Audio Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the HD Audio Device.

[Disabled] Disables the HD Audio Device.

The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller item to
[Enabled].

Front Panel Type [HD]

Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-

denition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.

[HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high denition audio.

[AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97

Realtek LAN Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the Realtek LAN controller.

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

2-28

Chapter 2: Getting started

Realtek PXE Option ROM [Disabled]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to

enable or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Realtek LAN controller. Conguration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller (USB3_E12) [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the USB 3.0 controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the USB 3.0 battery charging support.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Serial Port Conguration

The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the serial port conguration.

Serial Port [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the serial port (COM).Conguration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

Change Settings [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4]
This item appears only when you set the Serial Port to [Enabled] and allows you

to select the Serial Port base address. Conguration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4]
[IO=2F8h; IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]

Parallel Port Conguration

The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the parallel port conguration.

Parallel Port [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the parallel port (LPT/LPTE).

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

The following items appear only when you set the Parallel Port Conguration item to
[Enabled].

Change Settings [Auto]

Allows you to select an optimal setting for Super I/O devices. Conguration
options: [Auto] [IO=378h; IRQ=5;] [IO=378h; IRQ=5,6,7,9,10,11,12;] [IO=278h;
IRQ=5,6,7,9,10,11,12;] [IO=3BCh; IRQ=5,6,7,9,10,11,12;]

Device Mode [STD Printe...]

Allows you to select the Printer Port mode. Conguration options: [STD Printer Mode]

[SPP Mode] [EPP-1.9 and SPP Mode] [EPP-1.7 and SPP Mode] [ECP Mode] [ECP and
EPP 1.9 Mode] [ECP and EPP 1.7 Mode]

ASUS H81M2

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2.6.8 APM

Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]

[Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.

[Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.

[Last State] The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was

before the AC power loss.

Power On By PCI-E/PCI [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the PCI-E/PCI devices to generate a wake-on-LAN feature of the

[Enabled] Enables the PCI-E/PCI devices to generate a wake-on-LAN feature of the

Intel®/Realtek LAN device.

Intel®/Realtek LAN device.

Power On By Ring [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables Ring to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] Enables Ring to generate a wake event.

Power On By RTC [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables RTC to generate a wake event.
[Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/

Minute/Second will become user-congurable with set values.

2.6.9 Network Stack Conguration

Network Stack [Disabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Conguration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

The following two items appear only when you set the previous item to [Enabled].

Ipv4 PXE Support [Enabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the Ipv4 PXE Boot support. Conguration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the Ipv6 PXE Boot support. Conguration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

2-30

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.7 Monitor menu

The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change
the fan settings.

Scroll down to display the other items.

2.7.1 CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU temperature.
Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperature.

2.7.2 CPU / Chassis Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] /
[N/A]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU / chassis fan

speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the eld

shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected speed.

2.7.3 CPU Input Voltage (VCCIN), 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage,
12V Voltage

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard
voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item.

2.7.4 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.

[Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.

ASUS H81M2

2-31

CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM]

This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to
disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.

Conguration options: [Ignore] [100RPM] [200RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM]

CPU Fan Prole [Standard]

This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to
set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.

[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on

[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.

[Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.

[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

CPU Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values
range from 20ºC to 75ºC.

CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The values

range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature reaches the upper limit, the

CPU fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle.

CPU Lower Temperature [20]

Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.

CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values

range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under the lower limit, the CPU

fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

the CPU temperature.

The following four items appear only when you set CPU Fan Prole to [Manual].

2.7.5 Chassis Q-Fan Control [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

[Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows you
to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.

Conguration options: [Ignore] [200RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

2-32

Chapter 2: Getting started

Chassis Fan Prole [Standard]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows you
to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan.

[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust depending

[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan operation.

[Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.

[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

Chassis Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the chassis temperature. The
values range from 40ºC to 75ºC.

Chassis Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values

range from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature reaches the upper limit, the

chassis fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle.

Chassis Lower Temperature [40]

Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.

Chassis Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values

range from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40ºC, the chassis

fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

on the chassis temperature.

The following four items appear only when you set Chassis Fan Prole to [Manual].

2.7.6 Anti Surge Support [Disabled]

This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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2.8 Boot menu

The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.

Scroll down to display the other items.

2.8.1 Fast Boot [Enabled]

[Enabled] Select to accelerate the boot speed.

[Disabled] Select to go back to normal boot.

The following ve items appear when you set Fast Boot to [Enabled].

SATA Support [All Devices]

[All Devices] All devices connected to SATA ports will be available during

[Hard Drive Only] Only hard drives connected to SATA ports will be detected during

[Boot Drive Only] Only boot drive connected to SATA ports will be detected during

POST. This process will extend the POST time.

POST. Any hardware change will disable fast boot.

POST. Any hardware change will disable fast boot.

USB Support [Partial In...]

[Disabled] All USB devices will not be available until OS boot up for a

[Full Initialization] All USB devices will be available during POST. This process will

[Partial Initialization] For a faster POST time, only the USB ports with keyboard and

2-34

fastest POST time.

extend the POST time.

mouse connections will be detected.

Chapter 2: Getting started

PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse Support [Auto]

Select any of these settings when PS/2 keyboard and mouse are installed. These settings
only apply when Fast Boot is enabled.

[Auto] For a faster POST time, PS/2 devices will only be available when the

[Full Initialization] For full system control, PS/2 devices will be available during POST at any

[Disabled] For the fastest POST time, all PS/2 devices will not be available until your

system boots up or rebooted when the PS/2 devices have not been
reconnected or changed. If you disconnect or change PS/2 devices before
restarting the system, PS/2 devices will not be available and BIOS setup
program will not be accessible via PS/2 devices.

circumstances. This process will extend POST time.

computer enters the operating system.

Network Stack Driver Support [Disabled]

[Disabled] Select to skip the network stack driver from loading during POST.

[Enabled] Select to load the network stack driver during POST.

Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot]

[Normal Boot] Returns to normal boot on the next boot after AC power loss.

[Fast Boot] Accelerates the boot speed on the next boot after AC power loss.

2.8.2 Boot Logo Display [Auto]

[Auto] Adjust automatically for Windows® requrement.

[Full Screen] Maximize the boot logo size.

[Disabled] Hide the logo during POST.

POST Delay Time [3 sec]

This item appears only when you set Boot Logo Display to [Auto] or [Full Screen]. This item
allows you to select the desired additional POST waiting time to easily enter the BIOS setup.
You can only execute the POST delay time during Normal Boot. The values range from 0 to
10 seconds.

This feature will only work under normal boot.

Post Report [5 sec]

This item appears only when you set Boot Logo Display to [Disabled]. This item allows you

to select a desired post report waiting time. Conguration options: [1 sec] ~ [10 sec] [Until

Press ESC].

2.8.3 Bootup NumLock State [On]

[On] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].

[Off] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].

ASUS H81M2

2-35

2.8.4 Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]

When this item is set to [Enabled], the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error

occurs. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.8.5 Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]

[Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot

[Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party

sequence.

manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so.

2.8.6 Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]

[Enabled] Allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

2.8.7 Setup Mode [EZ Mode]

[Advanced Mode] Sets Advanced Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup

[EZ Mode] Sets EZ Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup program.

program.

2.8.8 CSM (Compatibility Support Module)

Allows you to congure the CSM (Compatibility Support Module) items to fully support the

various VGA, bootable devices and add-on devices for better compatibility.

Launch CSM [Enabled]

[Auto] The system automatically detects the bootable devices and the add-on

[Enabled] For better compatibility, enable the CSM to fully support the non-UEFI

[Disabled] Disable the CSM to fully support the Windows

devices.

driver add-on devices or the Windows® UEFI mode.

Security Boot.

®

Security Update and

The following four items appear when you set Launch CSM to [Enabled].

Boot Device Control [UEFI and L...]

Allows you to select the type of devices that you want to boot up. Conguration options:

[UEFI and Legacy OPROM] [Legacy OPROM only] [UEFI only]

Boot from Network Devices [Legacy OPR...]

Allows you to select the type of network devices that you want to launch. Conguration
options: [Legacy OPROM rst] [UEFI driver rst] [Ignore]

2-36

Chapter 2: Getting started

Boot from Storage Devices [Legacy OPR...]

Allows you to select the type of storage devices that you want to launch. Conguration
options: [Both, Legacy OPROM rst] [Both, UEFI rst] [Legacy OPROM rst] [UEFI driver
rst] [Ignore]

Boot from PCI-E/PCI Expansion Devices [Legacy OPR...]

Allows you to select the type of PCIe/PCI expansion devices that you want to launch.

Conguration options: [Legacy OPROM rst] [UEFI driver rst]

2.8.9 Secure Boot

Allows you to congure the Windows® Secure Boot settings and manage its keys to protect
the system from unauthorized access and malwares during POST.

OS Type [Windows UE...]

Allows you to select your installed operating system.

[Windows UEFI mode] Executes the Microsoft

option when booting on Windows® UEFI mode or other Microsoft®
Secure Boot compliant OS.

[Other OS] Get the optimized function when booting on Windows

mode, Windows® Vista/XP, or other Microsoft® Secure Boot
non-compliant OS. Only on Windows® UEFI mode that Microsoft®
Secure Boot can function properly.

The following item appears when OS Type is set to [Windows UEFI mode].

Key Management

This item appears only when you set OS Type to [Windows UEFI Mode]. It allows you
to manage the Secure Boot keys.

Install Default Secure Boot keys

Allows you to immediately load the default Security Boot keys, Platform key
(PK), Key-exchange Key (KEK), Signature database (db), and Revoked
Signatures (dbx). When the default Secure boot keys are loaded, the PK
state will change from Unloaded mode to loaded mode.

Clear Secure Boot keys

This item appears only when you load the default Secure Boot keys. This
item allows you to clear all default Secure Boot keys.

Save Secure Boot Keys

Allows you to save the PK (Platform Keys) to a USB storage device.

®

Secure Boot check. Only select this

®

non-UEFI

PK Management

The Platform Key (PK) locks and secures the rmware from any non-permissible
changes. The system veries the PK before your system enters the OS.

Delete PK

Allows you to delete the PK from your system. Once the PK is deleted, all

the system’s Secure Boot keys will not be active. Conguration options:

[Yes] [No]

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2-37

Load PK from File

Allows you to load the downloaded PK from a USB storage device.

The PK le must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated

variable.

KEK Management

The KEK (Key-exchange Key or Key Enrollment Key) manages the Signature database
(db) and Revoked Signature database (dbx).

Key-exchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft® Secure Boot Key-Enrollment Key (KEK).

Delete the KEK

Allows you to delete the KEK from your system. Conguration options:

[Yes] [No]

Load KEK from File

Allows you to load the downloaded KEK from a USB storage device.

Append KEK from le

Allows you to load the additional KEK from a storage device for an
additional db and dbx loaded management.

The KEK le must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated

variable.

DB Management

The db (Authorized Signature database) lists the signers or images of UEFI

applications, operating system loaders, and UEFI drivers that you can load on the
single computer.

Delete the db

Allows you to delete the db le from your system. Conguration options:

[Yes] [No]

Load db from File

Allows you to load the downloaded db from a USB storage device.

Append db from le

Allows you to load the additional db from a storage device so that more
images can be loaded securely.

2-38

The DB le must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated

variable.

Chapter 2: Getting started

DBX Management

The dbx (Revoked Signature database) lists the forbidden images of db items that are
no longer trusted and cannot be loaded.

Delete the DBX

Allows you to delete the DBX le from your system. Conguration options:

[Yes] [No]

Load DBX from File

Allows you to load the downloaded DBX from a USB storage device.

Append DBX from le

Allows you to load the additional DBX from a storage device so that more
db’s images cannot be loaded.

The DBX le must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated

variable.

2.8.10 Boot Option Priorities

These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices
installed in the system.

• To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo

appears.

• To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following:

• Press <F5> when ASUS Logo appears.

• Press <F8> after POST.

2.8.11 Boot Override

These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on
the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start
booting from the selected device.

ASUS H81M2

2-39

2.9 Tools menu

The Tools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item

then press <Enter> to display the submenu.

2.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility

Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. Press [Enter] to launch the ASUS EZ Flash 2 screen.

For more details, see section 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2.

2.9.2 ASUS Overclocking Prole

This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.

The Setup Prole Status items show Not Installed if no prole is created.

Label

Allows you to input the label of the setup prole.

Save to Prole

Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a prole. Key in a
prole number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.

Load from Prole

Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the prole

number that saved your CMOS settings, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.

• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the
system boot failure!

• We recommend that you update the BIOS le only coming from the same memory/
CPU conguration and BIOS version.

Load/Save CMOS Prole from/to USB Drive

Allows you to load/save CMOS prole from/to USB drive.

2.9.3 ASUS SPD Information

DIMM Slot Number [DIMM_A1]

Displays the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information of the DIMM module installed on the

selected slot. Conguration options: [DIMM_A1] [DIMM_B1]

2-40

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.10 Exit menu

The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and
save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit
menu.

Load Optimized Defaults

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup

menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conrmation window appears.

Select Yes to load the default values.

Save Changes & Reset

Once you are nished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to

ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>,

a conrmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.

Discard Changes & Exit

This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you

select this option or if you press <Esc>, a conrmation window appears. Select Yes to discard

changes and exit.

ASUS EZ Mode

This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen.

Launch EFI Shell from lesystem device

This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.e) from one of
the available devices that have a lesystem.

ASUS H81M2

2-41

2-42

Chapter 2: Getting started

Appendices

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.

•

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.

IC: Canadian Compliance Statement

Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specications. This device complies with RSS

210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian
interference-causing equipment regulations.
This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Cut appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le
matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence d’Industrie Canada. Le
fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :
(1) cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences et
(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence, y compris celles susceptibles de provoquer
un fonctionnement non souhaité de l’appareil.

H81M2

A-1

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.

VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement
VCCI Class B Statement

KC: Korea Warning Statement

REACH

Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at
ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.

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.

ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services

ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards
for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to
responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging
materials. Please go to http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm for detailed recycling
information in different regions.

A-2

Appendices

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
Telephone [phone]
Fax [phone]
E-mail [e-mail]
Web site www.asus.com.tw

Technical Support

Telephone [phone]
Online support support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Telephone [phone]
Fax [phone]
Web site usa.asus.com

Technical Support

Telephone [phone]
Support fax [phone]
Online support support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)

Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany
Fax [phone]
Web site www.asus.de
Online contact www.asus.de/sales

Technical Support

Telephone [phone]*
Support Fax [phone]
Online support support.asus.com

* EUR 0.14/minute from a German xed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.

Manufacturer: ASUSTeK Computer Inc.

Address: 4F, No. 150, LI-TE RD., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112,

Authorised representative in
Europe:

Address: HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN,

H81M2

TAIWAN R.O.C.

ASUS Computer GmbH

GERMANY

A-3

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a)

Responsible Party Name:

Asus Computer International

Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont

, CA 94539.

Phone/Fax No: [phone]/[phone]

hereby declares that the product

Product Name : Motherboard

Model Number : H81M2

Conforms to the following specifications:

FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators

Supplementary Information:

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference,

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

that may cause undesired operation.

Representative Person’s Name : Steve Chang / President

Signature :

Date : Sep.04, 2013

Ver. 120601

EC Declaration of Conformity

We, the undersigned,

Manufacturer:

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address, City:

4F, No. 150, LI-TE Rd., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112, TAIWAN

Country:

TAIWAN

Authorized representative in Europe:

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH

Address, City:

HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN

Country:

GERMANY

declare the following apparatus:

Product name :

Motherboard

Model name : H81M2

conform with the essential requirements of the following directives:

2004/108/EC-EMC Directive

EN 55022:2010

EN 61000-3-2:2006+A2:2009

EN 55013:2001+A1:2003+A2:2006

EN 55024:2010

EN 61000-3-3:2008

EN 55020:2007+A11:2011

1999/5/EC-R &TTE Directive

EN 300 328 V1.7.1(2006-10)

EN 300 440-1 V1.6.1(2010-08)

EN 300 440-2 V1.4.1(2010-08)

EN 301 511 V9.0.2(2003-03)

EN 301 908-1 V5.2.1(2011-05)

EN 301 908-2 V5.2.1(2011-07)

EN 301 893 V1.6.1(2011-11)

EN 302 544-2 V1.1.1(2009-01)

EN 302 623 V1.1.1(2009-01)

EN 50360:2001

EN 62479:2010

EN 50385:2002

EN 62311:2008

EN 301 489-1 V1.9.2(2011-09)

EN 301 489-3 V1.4.1(2002-08)

EN 301 489-4 V1.4.1(2009-05)

EN 301 489-7 V1.3.1(2005-11)

EN 301 489-9 V1.4.1(2007-11)

EN 301 489-17 V2.2.1(2012-09)

EN 301 489-24 V1.5.1(2010-09)

EN 302 326-2 V1.2.2(2007-06)

EN 302 326-3 V1.3.1(2007-09)

EN 301 357-2 V1.4.1(2008-11)

EN 302 291-1 V1.1.1(2005-07)

EN 302 291-2 V1.1.1(2005-07)

2006/95/EC-LVD Directive

EN 60950-1 / A12:2011 EN 60065:2002 / A12:2011

2009/125/EC-ErP Directive

Regulation (EC) No. 1275/2008

Regulation (EC) No. 642/2009

Regulation (EC) No. 278/2009

Regulation (EC) No. 617/2013

2011/65/EU-RoHS Directive

Ver. 130816

CE marking

Declaration Date: 04/09/2013

Year to begin affixing CE marking:2013

Position : CEO

Name :

Jerry Shen

Signature :

__________

(EC conformity marking)

A-4

Appendices