H87M-PRO
Table of contents
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H87M-PRO
Motherboard
E7919
First Edition
April 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, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the
product is defaced or missing.
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,
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LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
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SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
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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
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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
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ii
Contents
Safety information ...................................................................................................... vi
About this guide ........................................................................................................ vii
H87M-PRO specications summary ......................................................................... ix
Package contents ..................................................................................................... xiii
Installation tools and components ......................................................................... xiv
Product introduction
1.1 Special features..........................................................................................1-1
1.1.1 Product highlights
1.1.2 DIGI+ VRM Digital Power Design ...............................................
1.1.3 ASUS Exclusive Features ...........................................................
1.1.4 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution .....................................................
1.1.5 ASUS EZ DIY ..............................................................................
1.1.6 Other special features .................................................................
1.2 Motherboard overview ...............................................................................
1.2.1 Before you proceed .....................................................................
1.2.2 Motherboard layout .....................................................................
1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................
1.2.4 System memory ........................................................................
1.2.5 Expansion slots .........................................................................
1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches
1.2.7 Jumpers ....................................................................................
1.2.8 Onboard LEDs ..........................................................................
1.2.9 Internal connectors
........................................................................ 1-1
.................................................. 1-14
.................................................................... 1-18
1-2
1-2
1-3
1-4
1-5
1-6
1-6
1-7
1-9
1-10
1-12
1-16
1-17
Basic Installation
2.1 Building your PC system...........................................................................2-1
2.1.1 Motherboard installation ..............................................................
2.1.2 CPU installation
2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ...............................
2.1.4 DIMM installation
2.1.5 ATX Power connection ................................................................
2.1.6 SATA device connection ..............................................................
2.1.7 Front I/O Connector ..................................................................
2.1.8 Expansion Card installation
2.2 BIOS update utility ...................................................................................
2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections .............................................
........................................................................... 2-4
......................................................................... 2-7
....................................................... 2-11
2-1
2-5
2-8
2-9
2-10
2-12
2-13
iii
Contents
2.3.1 Rear I/O connection .................................................................. 2-13
2.3.2 Audio I/O connections ...............................................................
2.4 Starting up for the rst time ....................................................................
2.5 Turning off the computer .........................................................................
BIOS setup
3.1 Knowing BIOS ............................................................................................3-1
3.2 BIOS setup program ..................................................................................
3.2.1 EZ Mode
3.2.2 Advanced Mode ..........................................................................
3.3 My Favorites ...............................................................................................
3.4 Main menu ..................................................................................................
3.5 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................................
3.6 Advanced menu .......................................................................................
3.6.1 CPU Conguration ....................................................................
3.6.2 PCH Conguration ....................................................................
3.6.3 SATA Conguration ...................................................................
3.6.4 System Agent Conguration
3.6.5 AMT Conguration ....................................................................
3.6.6 USB Conguration ....................................................................
3.6.7 Platform Misc Conguration ......................................................
3.6.8 Onboard Devices Conguration ................................................
3.6.9 APM ..........................................................................................
3.6.10 Network Stack ...........................................................................
3.7 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................
3.8 Boot menu ................................................................................................
3.9 Tools menu ...............................................................................................
3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............................................................
3.9.2 ASUS O.C. Prole .....................................................................
3.9.3 ASUS SPD Information .............................................................
3.10 Exit menu ..................................................................................................
3.11 Updating BIOS ..........................................................................................
3.11.1 EZ Update .................................................................................
3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ......................................................................
3.11.4 ASUS BIOS Updater .................................................................
...................................................................................... 3-3
...................................................... 3-28
2-14
2-17
2-17
3-2
3-4
3-6
3-7
3-9
3-21
3-22
3-25
3-26
3-30
3-31
3-32
3-33
3-35
3-36
3-37
3-40
3-46
3-46
3-46
3-47
3-48
3-49
3-49
3-50
3-52
iv
Contents
Software support
4.1 Installing an operating system .................................................................4-1
4.2 Support DVD information ..........................................................................
4.2.1 Running the support DVD ...........................................................
4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals
4.3 Software information .................................................................................
4.3.1 AI Suite 3
..................................................................................... 4-3
4.3.2 DIGI+ VRM ..................................................................................
4.3.3 EPU .............................................................................................
4.3.4 TurboV EVO ................................................................................
4.3.5 Fan Xpert 2 .................................................................................
4.3.6 USB 3.0 Boost
4.3.7 Network iControl
........................................................................... 4-11
........................................................................ 4-12
4.3.8 USB BIOS Flashback ................................................................
4.3.9 EZ Update .................................................................................
4.3.10 USB Charger+ ...........................................................................
4.3.11 System Information ...................................................................
4.3.12 Audio congurations
4.3.13 Intel
®
SBA support ..................................................................... 4-19
.................................................................. 4-17
RAID support
5.1 RAID congurations ..................................................................................5-1
5.1.1 RAID denitions ..........................................................................
5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks ...................................................
5.1.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ....................................................
5.1.4 Intel
5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk
5.2.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ..................
5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows
5.2.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows
®
Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility ..................5-3
....................................................................... 5-7
.................................................. 4-2
®
.................................... 5-8
®
OS installation ........ 5-8
4-1
4-1
4-3
4-4
4-6
4-7
4-9
4-13
4-14
4-15
4-16
5-1
5-2
5-2
5-7
Appendices
Notices .................................................................................................................... A-1
ASUS contact information ...................................................................................... A-4
v
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 qualied service
•
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals
•
that came with the package.
Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power
•
cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,
•
slots, sockets and circuitry.
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area
•
where it may become wet.
Place the product on a stable surface.
•
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualied service
•
technician or your retailer.
vi
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the
motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts:
• Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the
motherboard.
• Chapter 2: Basic Installation
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when
installing system components.
• Chapter 3: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
• Chapter 4: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
• Chapter 5: RAID support
This chapter describes the RAID congurations.
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.
vii
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used
throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to
complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to
complete a task
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. .
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Typography
Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.
names are linked with a plus sign (+).
viii
H87M-PRO specications summary
CPU LGA1150 socket for Intel® 4th Generation Core i7 / Core i5 / Core i3,
Pentium®, and Celeron® Processors
Supports 22nm CPU
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*
* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU types.
** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel® CPU support list.
Chipset Intel® H87 Express Chipset
Memory 4 x DIMMs, max. 32GB, DDR3 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-
buffered memory*
Dual-channel memory architecture
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)
* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs.
Please refer to Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List) for details.
www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List).
** Refer to
®
*** Due to Intel
XMP mode will run at the maximum transfer rate of DDR3 1600 Mhz.
chipset limitation, DDR3 1600 MHz and higher memory modules on
Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot [yellow] (at x16 mode)
1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot [dark brown] (max. at x4 mode, compatible with
PCIe x1 and x4 devices)
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots
* The PCIe x16_2 slot shares bandwidth with PCIe x1_1 and PCIe x1_2 slot. The
default setting is x2 mode. Go to the BIOS setup to change the settings.
Graphics Integrated Graphics Processor - Intel® HD Graphics support
Dual-VGA output support: DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI, RGB port
- Supports DisplayPort 1.2 with max. resolution 4096 x 2160@24Hz /
3840 x 2160@60Hz
- Supports HDMI with max. resolution 4096 x 2160@24Hz / 2560 x
1600@60Hz
- Supports DVI with max. resolution 1920 x 1200@60Hz
- Supports RGB with max. resolution 1920 x 1200@60Hz
- Supports up to 3 displays simultaneously
- Supports Intel
®
InTru™ 3D, Intel® Quick Sync Video, Intel® Clear Video
HD Technology, and Intel® Insider™
- Maximum shared memory of 1024MB
Multi-GPU
Supports ATI® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
support
LAN Realtek® 8111G Gigabit LAN controller
(continued on the next page)
ix
H87M-PRO specications summary
Storage
Audio
USB
Rear panel I/O
ports
Intel® H87 Express Chipset:
- 6 x Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (yellow) with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10
and Intel® Rapid Start Technology 12 support
- Supports Intel
®
Smart Response Technology, Intel® Rapid Start
Technology, Intel® Smart Connect Technology*
Marvell® PCIe SATA 6.0 Gb/s controller**
- 2 x eSATA ports at the back I/O
* These functions will work depending on the CPU installed.
** These SATA ports are for data hard drives only. ATAPI devices are not supported.
Realtek ALC892 8-Channel High Denition Audio CODEC
- Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit true BD lossless sound
- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming and Front Panel JackRetasking
- Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O
Intel® H87 Express Chipset supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost
- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support
- 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at rear panel (blue)
Intel® H87 Express Chipset
- 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 2 ports at the rear panel)
1 x PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse COMBO port
1 x Optical S/PDIF out port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
1 x DisplayPort
1 x HDMI port
1 x DVI port
1 x D-Sub port
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue, 1 supports USB BIOS Flashback)
2 x eSATA 6.0Gb/s ports
8-channel audio ports
x
ASUS unique
features
ASUS 5X Protection
- ASUS motherboards safeguard your PC with 5X Protection: DIGI+VRM,
DRAM Fuse, ESD Guards, All 5K-Hour Solid Capacitors, and Stainless
Steel Back I/O to ensure the best quality, reliability, and durability.
ASUS Digital Power Design
- Digital Power Control: Digital Power Design for the CPU and iGPU
- ASUS 4 Phase Power Design
- ASUS CPU power utility
(continued on the next page)
H87M-PRO specications summary
ASUS unique
features
ASUS DRAM Fuse
- Enhanced DRAM overcurrent protection and short circuit damage
prevention
ASUS ESD Guards
- Strong ESD protection for extended component lifespan
ASUS All 5K-Hour Solid Capacitors
- 2.5x Longer lifespan with excellent durability
ASUS Stainless Steel Back I/O
- 3x More durable corrosion-resistant coating
ASUS Exclusive Features
- ASUS EPU
- ASUS Network iControl featuring instant network bandwidth domination
for top network program in use
- ASUS USB 3.0 Boost featuring speedy USB 3.0 transmission
- ASUS Disk Unlocker featuring 3TB + HDD support
- ASUS GPU Boost
- ASUS MemOK!
- ASUS AI Suite 3
- ASUS AI Charger
- ASUS USB Charger+
- ASUS Anti-Surge
ASUS Q-Design
- ASUS Q-Shield
- ASUS Q-Slot
- ASUS Q-DIMM
- ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
- ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish Heatsink and MOS Heatsink Solution
- ASUS Fan Xpert 2 featuring Fan Auto Tuning function for optimized
speed control, providing an exclusive tailored fan speed setting for each
fan.
ASUS EZ DIY
- ASUS USB BIOS Flashback with USB BIOS Flashback Wizard for EZ
BIOS download scheduling
- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user interface
- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
- ASUS EZ Flash 2
Other features
- Support SBA
(continued on the next page)
xi
H87M-PRO specications summary
Internal I/O connectors 1 x 19-pin USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0/2.0
BIOS features 128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM
Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, PXE
Accessories 3 x Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s cables
Support DVD contents Drivers
Form factor uATX Form Factor, 9.6”x 8.4” (24.4cm x 21.3cm)
port
3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0/1.1 ports
1 x System panel connector
1 x S/PDIF Out connector
1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (yellow)
1 x CPU fan connector (4-pin) for both 3-pin (DC mode) and 4-pin
(PWM mode) CPU coolers control
3 x Chassis fan connectors (4-pin)
1 x COM connector
1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector
1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
1 x GPU Switch
1 x MemOK! Button
BIOS 2.7, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2,
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3, My Favorites, Quick Note, Last Modied
Log, F12 PrintScreen Function, F3 Shortcut Function and ASUS
DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information
1 x User Manual
1 x Q-Shield
1 x 2-in-1 Q-connector (retail version only)
1 x Support DVD
ASUS Update
ASUS Utilities
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
Specications are subject to change without notice.
xii
Package contents
H87M-PRO
User Manual
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
ASUS H87M-PRO motherboard User manual Support DVD
3 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables 1 x ASUS Q-Shield 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit
• If any of the items are damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
• The illustrations above are for reference only. Actual product specications may vary.
xiii
Installation tools and components
1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver
PC chassis Power supply unit
Intel LGA 1150 CPU Intel LGA 1150 compatible CPU Fan
DDR3 DIMM SATA hard disk drive
xiv
SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional)
The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Product introduction
1
1.1 Special features
1.1.1 Product highlights
LGA1150 socket for Intel® 4th Generation Core i7 / Core i5 / Core i3, Pentium®,
and Celeron® Processors
This motherboard supports Intel® 4th generation Core i7 / Core i5 / Core i3, Pentium®,
and Celeron® processors in the LGA1150 package. It provides great graphics and system
performance with its GPU, dual-channel DDR3 memory slots and PCI Express 2.0/3.0
expansion slots.
Intel® H87 Express Chipset
Intel® H87 Express Chipset is a single-chipset that supports the 1150 socket Intel® 4th
generation Core i7 / Core i5 / Core i3, Pentium®, and Celeron® processors. It utilizes the serial
point-to-point links, which increases bandwidth and enhances the system’s performance. It
natively supports up to six USB 3.0 ports for up to ten times faster transfer rate than USB 2.0
and enables the iGPU function for Intel® integrated graphics performance.
PCI Express® 3.0
PCI Express® 3.0 (PCIe 3.0) is the PCI Express bus standard that provides twice the
performance and speed of PCIe 2.0. It provides an optimal graphics performance,
unprecedented data speed and seamless transition with its complete backward compatibility
to PCIe 1.0/2.0 devices.
Dual-Channel DDR3 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz Support
The motherboard supports the dual-channel DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates
of DDR3 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz to boost the system’s performance, and to meet the higher
bandwidth requirements of 3D graphics, multimedia and Internet applications.
Native SATA 6.0 Gb/s support
With Intel® H87 Express Chipset natively support for the Serial ATA (SATA) storage interface,
this motherboard delivers up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer rates. It also provides enhanced
scalability, faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current bus systems.
Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Support
This motherboard features the most powerful Intel® H87 platform that optimizes PCIe
allocation in multi-GPU CrossFireX™ solution, giving you a brand-new gaming enjoyment.
S/PDIF out connector at the back I/O
This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio systems
via the optical S/PDIF (SONY-PHILIPS Digital Interface) out connector at the back I/O. The
S/PDIF transfers digital audio without converting it to analog format and keeps the best signal
quality.
Chapter 1
ASUS H87M-PRO
1-1
100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors
This motherboard uses all high-quality conductive polymer capacitors for durability, improved
lifespan, and enhanced thermal capacity.
Intel® Smart Response Technology
Intel® Smart Response Technology, an important part of Green ASUS eco-friendly computing,
reduces load and wait time, eliminates unecessary hard drive spin thus lowering power
usage, and uses an installed SSD (requires 18.6 GB available space) as a cache for
frequently accessed data or applications. It combines SSD performance and hard drive
capacity, operating up to six times faster than a hard-drive-only system to boost the system’s
overall performance.
* 4th generation Intel® Core™ processors support Intel® Smart Response Technology.
** An operating system must be installed on the HDD to launch Intel
*** The SSD is reserved for caching function.
®
Smart Response Technology.
Intel® Smart Connect Technology
Intel® Smart Connect Technology allows your system to receive updates for your web
applications in real-time even when your system is in sleep mode. This saves wait time for
applications to update and sync with the cloud for a more efcient computing experience.
Intel® Rapid Start Technology
Intel® Rapid Start Technology allows your computer to quickly resume from a low-power
hibernate state in seconds. Saving your system memory to the designated SSD, it provides
your computer a faster wake-up response time, while still keeping the energy use low.
1.1.2 DIGI+ VRM Digital Power Design
DIGI+ VRM
All-new digital CPU power controls work perfectly together to match digital power signal
(SVID) requests from the CPU, with ultra-fast sensing and response efciently delivering
precision power. Accurate delivery reduces waste, and provides more stable CPU Vcore
voltages. Users can adjust CPU PWM voltages and frequencies for various overclocking
scenarios, with accurate input through UEFI BIOS tuning or the exclusive ASUS interface.
This proprietary design increases overclocking headroom to push performance to its full
potential.
EPU
EPU (Energy Processing Unit), the world’s rst real-time power-saving chip, automatically
detects the current system load and intelligently moderates power usage. It offers a total
system-wide energy optimization, reduces fan noise, and extends the component’s lifespan.
Chapter 1
1.1.3 ASUS Exclusive Features
GPU Boost
GPU Boost accelerates the integrated GPU for extreme graphics performance, facilitates
exible frequency adjustments and easily delivers stable system-level upgrades for every
use.
1-2
Chapter 1: Product introduction
USB 3.0 Boost
ASUS USB 3.0 Boost, which supports USB 3.0 standard UASP (USB Attached SCSI
Protocol), signicantly increases a USB device’s transfer speed up to 170% faster than the
already impressive USB 3.0 transfer speed. It automatically accelerates data speeds for
compatible USB 3.0 peripherals without the need for any user interaction.
USB Charger+
With a dedicated onboard controller, quick-charge all your smart devices such as
smartphones, tablets and more, all up to three times faster, even when the system is
powered off, in sleep or hibernation mode.
Network iControl
Network iControl is an intuitive one-step network control center that makes it easier for you to
manage your bandwidth and allows you to set, monitor and schedule the bandwidth priorities
for your network programs.
AI Suite 3
With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite 3 consolidates all the exclusive ASUS features
into one simple-to-use software package. It allows you to supervise overclocking, energy
management, fan speed control, voltage and sensor readings. This all-in-one software offers
diverse and ease to use functions, with no need to switch back and forth between different
utilities.
MemOK!
MemOK!, the remarkable memory rescue tool, allows you to simply press a button to
patch memory issues, ensure memory boot compatibility, determine fail-safe settings, and
dramatically improve the systemís bootup.
ASUS Anti-Surge Protection
This special design protects expensive devices and the motherboard from damage caused
by power surges from switching power supply unit (PSU).
ESD
Protect your computer with ESD Guards. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) conditions can
happen while plugging or unplugging any USB peripherals-causing damage to the computer.
ASUS ESD Guards clamp the ESD voltage and shunt the majority of the ESD current away
for a more reliable computing environment.
1.1.4 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Fanless Design: stylish heatsink solution
The stylish heatsink features a 0-dB thermal solution that offers you a noiseless PC
environment. The heatsink design also lowers the temperature of the chipset and power
phase area through high efcient heat-exchange. Combined with usability and aesthetics,
the ASUS stylish heatsink will give you an extremely silent and cooling experience with its
elegant appearance.
ASUS H87M-PRO
Chapter 1
1-3
ASUS Fan Xpert 2
ASUS Fan Xpert 2 provides customizable settings for a cooler and quieter computing
environment. With its Fan Auto Tuning feature, ASUS Fan Xpert 2 automatically detects
and tweaks all fan speeds, and provides you with optimized fan settings based on the fans’
specications and positions.
1.1.5 ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS UEFI BIOS
ASUS UEFI BIOS, a UEFI compliant architecture, offers the rst mouse-controlled intuitive
graphical BIOS interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls,
providing you with more exibility, convenience, and easy to navigate UEFI BIOS than the
traditional BIOS versions. It offers you with dual selectable modes and native support for hard
drives larger than 2.2 TB.
ASUS UEFI BIOS includes the following new features:
• New My Favorite function allows you to quickly access the frequently used items
• New Quick Note function allows you to take notes in the BIOS environment
• New log reminder allows you to view all your modied settings
• F12 BIOS snapshot hotkey
• F3 Shortcut for most accessed information
• ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) information detecting faulty DIMMs, and
helping with difcult POST situations.
USB BIOS Flashback
USB BIOS Flashback offers a hassle-free updating solution for your ultimate convenience.
Install a USB storage device containing the BIOS le, press the reset button of your chassis
for about three seconds, and the UEFI BIOS is automatically updated even without entering
the existing BIOS or operating system. It also allows you to regularly check for UEFI BIOS
updates, and download the latest BIOS automatically.
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-Shield’s special design makes it convenient and easy to install on your
motherboard. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your motherboard against
static electricity and shield it against EMI (Electromagnetic Interference).
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Connector is a unique adapter that allows you to easily connect or disconnect the
Chapter 1
chassis front panel cables to one module, eliminating the hassle of plugging one cable at a
time and making the connection quick and accurate.
ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS Q-Slot is designed to speed up and simplify the DIY process to enhance your DIY
experience.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1.6 Other special features
DisplayPort Support
DisplayPort is a digital display interface standard that delivers up to 10.8 Gbps of bandwidth
over standard cables, providing billions of colors and bi-directional communications, thus
enabling the fastest refresh rates, and the highest resolution digital display through a single
cable. It also supports HDCP copy protection for Blu-ray discs. Simply output 3D signals
through the connected DisplayPort cable with your 3D display, then you can sit back and
enjoy a perfect 3D animation experience.
HDMI Support
High Denition Multimedia Surface (HDMI) is a set of digital video standards that delivers
mulit-channel audio and uncompressed digital video up to 4K/2K resolution visuals through
a single cable. Supporting HDCP copy protection such as HD DVD and blu-ray discs, HDMI
provides you with the highest quality home theater experience.
ErP Ready
The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires
products to meet certain energy efciency requirement in regards to energy consumptions.
This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efcient products
through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus
mitigate environmental impacts.
ASUS H87M-PRO
Chapter 1
1-5
1.2 Motherboard overview
1.2.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change
any motherboard settings.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due
to static electricity.
• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the
bag that came with the component.
• Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so
may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.
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Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.2.2 Motherboard layout
H87M-PRO
PCIEX16_1
Marvell
9172
ASM1440
PCIEX16_2
USB910 USB1112 USB1314
PCIEX1_1
PCIEX1_2
AAFP
EATXPWR
CPU_FAN
CHA_FAN2
CHA_FAN1
CHA_FAN3
BATTERY
Super
I/O
ALC
892
RTL
8111G
ASM
1442
DIGI
+VRM
KB_USB78
SPDIFO
_HDMI
_DP
128Mb
BIOS
SB_PWR
CLRTC
21.3cm(8.4in)
24.4cm(9.6in)
USB3_12
Intel
®
H87
DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3 DIMM_B2 (64bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3 DIMM_A2 (64bit, 240-pin module)
SATA6G_1
SATA6G_2
SATA6G_3
SATA6G_4
SATA6G_5
SATA6G_6
AUDIO
LAN_USB3_34
E56_E12
_U3_56
PANEL
SPDIF_OUT
COM
DVI_VGA
DRAM_LED
MemOK!
GPU_LED
GPU_Boost
LGA1150
EATX12V
3 31 2 6
13 121415
3534
7
8
2
10
9
11
ASUS H87M-PRO
Refer to 1.2.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information
about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.
Chapter 1
1-7
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/Slots Page
1. Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM) 1-23
2. EATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)
3. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3)
®
4. Intel
5. GPU Boost Switch
GPU Boost LED
6. DDR3 DIMM sockets
7. MemOK! button
8. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)
9. Onboard LED (SB_PWR)
10. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
11. Intel
12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
13. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112, USB1314)
14. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
15. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
LGA1150 CPU socket 1-9
®
H87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6) 1-18
1-24
1-22
1-15
1-17
1-10
1-14
1-19
1-17
1-16
1-25
1-20
1-19
1-21
Chapter 1
1-8
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
H87M-PRO
H87M-PRO CPU socket LGA1150
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1150 socket designed for the Intel® 4th
Generation Core i7 / Core i5 / Core i3, Pentium, and Celeron processors.
• Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
• Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for the LGA1150 socket only. DO
NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA 1150
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.
ASUS H87M-PRO
Chapter 1
1-9
1.2.4 System memory
H87M-PRO
H87M-PRO 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets
DIMM_A1
DIMM_A2
DIMM_B1
DIMM_B2
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules
(DIMM) slots.
A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR
or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.
Recommended memory congurations
Chapter 1
1-10
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Memory congurations
You may install 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM
sockets.
• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conguration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
• According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect
the CPU.
• Due to Intel
mode will run at the maximum transfer rate of DDR3 1600 MHz.
• 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 OS, when you install 4GB
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
a) Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows OS.
b) Install a 64-bit Windows OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the
c) For more details, refer to the Microsoft
• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less
(Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB).
• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.5 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.
• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
• ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function.
• Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load
the X.M.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support.
• Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.
®
chipset limitation, DDR3 1600 MHz and higher memory modules on XMP
motherboard.
®
com/kb/929605/en-us.
support site at http://support.microsoft.
ASUS H87M-PRO
Chapter 1
1-11
1.2.5 Expansion slots
H87M-PRO
Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
Slot No. Slot Description
1 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot [Yellow] (at x16 mode)
2 PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot
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1-12
3 PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot
4
PCIe 2.0 x16_2 slot [Dark brown] (at x4 mode, compatible with PCIe x1 and
x4 devices)
Chapter 1: Product introduction
VGA conguration
Single VGA/PCIe
card
PCI Express operating mode
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 PCIe 2.0 x16_2
x16 (Recommend for single VGA) N/A
Dual VGA/PCIe card x16 x4
• In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot (yellow) for a PCI Express
x16 graphics card to get better performance.
• We recommend that you provide sufcient power when running CrossFireX™ mode.
• Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2/3 when
using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.
• The PCIe x16_2 slot shares bandwidth with PCIe x1_1 and PCIe x2 slots. The default
setting is x2 mode. Go to the BIOS Setup to change the settings.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A B C D E F G H
LAN – – shared – – – – –
Marvell 9172 – – – shared – – – –
PCIE x16_1 shared – – – – – – –
PCIE x16_2 shared – – – – – – –
PCIE x1_1 – – shared – – – – –
PCIE x1_2 – – – shared – – – –
Intel PCH SATA Controller – – – shared – – – –
HD Audio – – – – – – shared –
USB 2.0_1 – – – – – – – shared
USB 2.0_2 – – – – shared – – –
USB 3.0 – – – – – shared – –
ASUS H87M-PRO
Chapter 1
1-13
1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches
H87M-PRO
H87M-PRO MemOK! switch
Onboard switches and buttons allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare or
open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings
to enhance system performance.
1. MemOK! button
Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system boot
failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! to switch lights continuously. Press
and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic
memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.
Chapter 1
• Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.
• The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the
system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.
• The MemOK! switch does not function under the Windows™ OS environment.
• During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It
takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test
fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed
of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.
• Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each
timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning
process, the DRAM_LED remains lit. Replace the DIMMs with ones recommended in
the Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on the ASUS website
at www.asus.com.
• If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system
continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn
off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.
• If your system fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch to boot
and load BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST reminding you
that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.
• We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the
ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.
1-14
Chapter 1: Product introduction
2. GPU Boost switch
H87M-PRO
H87M-PRO GPU Boost switch
GPU Boost
This switch allows you to turn on or off the GPU Boost function.
To ensure system performance, turn the switch setting to [Enable] when the system is
powered off.
• The GPU Boost LED near the GPU Boost switch lights up when the GPU Boost switch
is enabled. Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the GPU
Boost LED.
• If you enable this switch under the Windows
function will be activated after the next system bootup.
®
OS environment, the GPU Boost
ASUS H87M-PRO
Chapter 1
1-15
1.2.7 Jumpers
H87M-PRO
H87M-PRO Clear RTC RAM
1 2 2 3
Normal
(Default)
Clear RTC
CLRTC
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.
2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3 for
about 5–10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter
data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
• If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper
• You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For
Chapter 1
1-16
again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the
battery.
system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature.
Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter
settings to default values.
Chapter 1: Product introduction
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