Maximus Extreme
Motherboard
E3498
Second Edition V2
October 2007
Copyright © 2007 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,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY
DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.
SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,
AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO
RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS
MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or
copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identication or explanation and to the
owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.
ii
Contents
Notices ....................................................................................................... viii
Safety information ...................................................................................... ix
About this guide .......................................................................................... x
Maximus Extreme specications summary ............................................ xii
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Package contents .........................................................................
1.3 Special features ............................................................................
1.3.1 ROG intelligent Performance & Overclocking features ..
1.3.2 ROG unique features .....................................................
1.3.3 Product highlights ...........................................................
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview .................................................................
2.2.1 Placement direction ........................................................
2.2.2 Screw holes ....................................................................
2.2.3 Motherboard layout .........................................................
2.2.4 Audio card layout ............................................................
2.2.5 Layout contents ...............................................................
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................
2.3.1 Installing the CPU .........................................................
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan ..............................
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan .........................
2.4 System memory .........................................................................
2.4.1 Overview .......................................................................
2.4.2 Memory congurations ..................................................
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM ..........................................................
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................
2.5 Expansion slots ..........................................................................
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card .........................................
2.5.2 Conguring an expansion card .....................................
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ...................................................
2.5.4 PCI slots ........................................................................
2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots .....................................................
1-1
1-2
1-2
1-4
1-7
2-5
2-5
2-5
2-6
2-6
2-7
2-9
2-10
2-12
2-14
2-16
2-16
2-17
2-19
2-19
2-20
2-20
2-20
2-21
2-22
2-22
iii
Contents
2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots ................................................... 2-22
2.6 Slide switch ................................................................................
2.7 EL I/O shield, LCD Poster and Audio card Installation ...........
2.7.1 EL I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation .....................
2.7.2 Audio card Installation ...................................................
2.8 Connectors .................................................................................
2.8.1 Rear panel connectors ..................................................
2.8.2 Internal connectors .......................................................
2.8.3 Onboard switches .........................................................
2.8.4 Installing the optional fans ............................................
2.8.5 Installing the DIY Pedestal ............................................
2.8.6 Installing Fusion Block System accessory ....................
Chapter 3: Powering up
3.1 Starting up for the rst time ........................................................ 3-1
3.2 Turning off the computer .............................................................
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function ....................................
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch ..............................
Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1
4.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................
4.1.2 Creating a bootable oppy disk .......................................
4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ...................................................
4.1.4 AFUDOS utility ................................................................
4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ......................................
4.2 BIOS setup program ....................................................................
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen ........................................................
4.2.2 Menu bar .......................................................................
4.2.3 Navigation keys .............................................................
4.2.4 Menu items ....................................................................
4.2.5 Sub-menu items .............................................................
4.2.6 Conguration elds ........................................................
4.2.7 Pop-up window ..............................................................
4.2.8 Scroll bar ........................................................................
4.2.9 General help ..................................................................
2-23
2-24
2-24
2-25
2-26
2-26
2-29
2-40
2-41
2-42
2-43
3-2
3-2
3-2
4-1
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-8
4-9
4-10
4-10
4-10
4-11
4-11
4-11
4-11
4-11
4-11
iv
Contents
4.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 4-12
4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx] .................................................
4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] .......................................
4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.] .................................
4.3.4 Language [English] .......................................................
4.3.5
4.3.6 SATA Conguration .......................................................
4.3.7 AHCI Conguration .......................................................
4.3.8 System Information .......................................................
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu .............................................................
4.4.1 Congure System Performance Settings ......................
4.5 Advanced menu .........................................................................
4.5.1 CPU Conguration ........................................................
4.5.2 Chipset ..........................................................................
4.5.3 OnBoard Devices Conguration ...................................
4.5.4 USB Conguration ........................................................
4.5.5 PCI PnP ........................................................................
4.6 Power menu ................................................................................
4.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] ...................................................
4.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled] .......................
4.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled] .........................................
4.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] .......................................
4.6.5 APM Conguration ........................................................
4.6.6 Hardware Monitor .........................................................
4.7 Boot menu ..................................................................................
4.7.1 Boot Device Priority ......................................................
4.7.2 Boot Settings Conguration ..........................................
4.7.3 Security .........................................................................
4.8 Tools menu .................................................................................
4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ..........................................................
4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Prole .........................................................
4.8.3 AI Net 2 .........................................................................
4.9 Exit menu ....................................................................................
SATA 1-6 ..........................................................................................4-13
4-12
4-12
4-12
4-12
4-14
4-15
4-16
4-17
4-17
4-24
4-25
4-26
4-27
4-28
4-29
4-30
4-30
4-30
4-30
4-30
4-31
4-32
4-35
4-35
4-36
4-37
4-39
4-39
4-40
4-41
4-42
Chapter 5: Software support
5.1 Installing an operating system ..................................................... -1
v
Contents
5.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 5-1
5.2.1 Running the support DVD ...............................................
5.2.2 Drivers menu ...................................................................
5.2.3 Utilities menu ..................................................................
5.2.4 Make Disk menu .............................................................
5.2.5 Manual menu ..................................................................
5.2.6 Video menu .....................................................................
5.2.7 ASUS Contact information ..............................................
5.2.8 Other information ............................................................
5.3 Software information ...................................................................
™
5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo 3
5.3.2 AI NET 2
.........................................................................5-11
5.3.3 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX
5.3.4 ASUS PC Probe II .........................................................
5.3.5 ASUS AI Suite ...............................................................
5.3.6 ASUS EPU Utility—AI Gear 3 .......................................
5.3.7 ASUS AI Nap ................................................................
5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan 2 ..............................................................
5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster ...........................................................
5.3.10 CPU Level Up ...............................................................
5.4 RAID congurations ..................................................................
5.4.1 RAID denitions ............................................................
5.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks .....................................
®
5.4.3 Intel
5.4.4 JMicron
RAID congurations ............................................. 5-35
®
RAID Conguration ........................................ 5-43
5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk .......................................................
5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ....
5.5.2 Creating a RAID/SATA driver disk in Windows
........................................................... 5-9
®
High Denition Audio utility) ... 5-12
®
............ 5-51
5-1
5-2
5-3
5-5
5-6
5-6
5-7
5-7
5-9
5-21
5-27
5-29
5-30
5-31
5-32
5-33
5-34
5-34
5-35
5-51
5-51
Chapter 6: ATI® CrossFire™ technology support
6.1 Overview ....................................................................................... 6-1
6.1.1 Requirements ..................................................................
6.1.2 Before you begin .............................................................
6.2 Installing CrossFire™ graphics cards .......................................
6.3 Software information ...................................................................
6.3.1 Installing the device drivers .............................................
vi
6-1
6-1
6-2
6-5
6-5
6.3.2 Using the Catalyst™ Control Center ............................... 6-7
Appendix: CPU features
A.1 Intel® EM64T ..................................................................................A-1
®
A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep
A.2.1 System requirements ......................................................
A.2.2 Using the EIST ................................................................
®
A.3 Intel
Hyper-Threading Technology ...........................................A-3
Using the Hyper-Threading Technology ........................................ A-3
A.4 Debug Code Table ........................................................................
Technology (EIST) ........................A-1
A-1
A-2
A-4
vii
Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
•
This device may not cause harmful interference, and
•
This device must accept any interference received including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is
required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications
to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the
Canadian Department of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
viii
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 adpater or extension cord.
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
•
Make sure 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, make sure 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.
This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical,
electronic equipment, and mercury-containing button cell battery) should not
be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic
products.
ix
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.
• Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It includes description of the switches,
jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.
• Chapter 3: Powering up
This chapter describes the power up sequence and ways of shutting down
the system.
• Chapter 4: 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 5: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
• Chapter 6: ATI CrossFire™ support
This chapter describes the ATI CrossFire™ feature and shows the graphics
card installation procedures.
• Appendix: CPU features
The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the
motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster.
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.
x
Conventions used in this guide
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following
symbols used throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself
when trying to complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components
when trying to complete a task.
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a
task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a
task.
Typography
Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the
Enter or Return key.
<Key1+Key2+Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the
key names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>
Command Means that you must type the command exactly
as shown, then supply the required item or value
enclosed in brackets.
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
afudos /i[lename]
afudos /iMaximus-Extreme.ROM
xi
Maximus Extreme specications summary
CPU LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme /
Chipset Intel® X38 / ICH9R with Intel® Fast Memory Access
System Bus 1600 / 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz
Memory
Expansion Slots 3 x PCIe Gfx slot, support dual PCIe2.0 x16 or
CrossFire™ Technology Support ATI CrossFire™ graphics cards
Storage Southbridge
LAN Dual Gigabit LAN controllers, both featuring AI NET2
High Denition Audio SupremeFX II Audio Card
IEEE 1394 2 x 1394a ports (1 port onboard; 1 port at back I/O)
USB 12 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at
Core™2 Quad/ Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Extreme /
Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 Processors
Support Intel® next generation 45nm Multi-Core CPU
Compatible with Intel® 06/05B/05A processors
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list
Technology
4 x DIMM, max. 8GB,
DDR3 1800(O.C.)/1600(O.C.)/1333/1066 MHz,
non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Dual channel memory architecture
PCIe2.0 x16, dual x8
2 x PCIe x1, PCIex1_1 (black) is compatible with the
audio slot.)
2 x PCI 2.2
- 6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports
- Intel Matrix Storage Technology supports RAID 0, 1,
10, 5, and JBOD.
JMicron® JMB363 PATA and SATA controller
- 1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 for up to 2 PATA devices
- 2 x External SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (SATA On-the-Go)
Teaming technology support
- ADI 1988B 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC
- Noise Filter
Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O
back panel)
(continued on the next page)
xii
Maximus Extreme specications summary
ASUS ROG
Overclocking features
ASUS Special Features Fusion Block System
Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard (purple)
Internal I/O Connectors 3 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0
Crosslinx technology
Extreme Tweaker
Loadline Calibration
Intelligent overclocking tools:
- CPU level up
- AI NOS™ (Non-delay Overclocking System)
- AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner)
- AI Booster Utility
- O.C. Prole
Overclocking protection:
- COP EX (Component Overheat Protection -EX)
- Voltiminder LED
- ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
LCD Poster
EL I/O
Onboard Switches: Power / Reset / Clr CMOS
Q-Connector
Q-Fan Plus
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS MyLogo 3™
1 x Optical + 1 x Coaxial S/PDIF Out
2 x External SATA
2 x LAN (RJ45) port
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
1 x IEEE1394a port
1 x Clr CMOS switch
ports
1 x Floppy disk drive connector
1 x IDE connector for two devices
6 x SATA connectors
8 x Fan connectors (1 x CPU/ 1 x Power/ 3 x Chassis/
3 x Optional)
3 x Thermal sensor connectors
1 x IEEE1394a connector
1 x S/PDIF Out connector
1 x Chassis Intrusion connector
24-pin ATX Power connector
8-pin ATX 12V Power connector
1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS slide switch
1 x EL I/O Shield connector
(continued on the next page)
xiii
Maximus Extreme specications summary
BIOS Features 16 Mb AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.4,
Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, Chassis Intrusion, PXE
Accessories Fusion Block System Accessory
Software The hottest 3D game: S.T.A.L.K.E.R
Form Factor ATX Form Factor, 12”x 10.6” (30.5cm x 26.9cm)
ACPI 2.0a Multi-Language BIOS
DIY Pedestal
ASUS Optional Fan
3 in 1 ASUS Q-connector kit
UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable
Floppy disk drive cable
Serial ATA cables
Serial ATA power cables
2-port USB2.0 module + IEEE1394a module
EL I/O Shield
Thermal sensor cables
Cable ties
User's manual
Support DVD:
Drivers
ASUS PC Probe II
ASUS Update
ASUS AI Suite
Futuremark® 3DMark® 06 Advanced Edition
Kaspersky Anti-Virus software
*Specications are subject to change without notice.
xiv
This chapter describes the motherboard
features and the new technologies
it supports.
Product
1
introduction
Chapter summary
1
1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Package contents .........................................................................
1.3 Special features ............................................................................
1-1
1-2
ASUS Maximus Extreme
1.1 Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® Maximus Extreme motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the
items in your package with the list below.
1.2 Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Motherboard ASUS Maximus Extreme
I/O modules USB 2.0 module + IEEE 1394a module
Cables Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable
Floppy disk drive cable
Serial ATA cables
Serial ATA power cables
Thermal sensor cables
Accessories Fusion Block System Accessory
EL I /O shield
LCD Poster
ASUS Optional Fan
3-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit
Cable ties
DIY Pedestal
DVD/CD ASUS motherboard support DVD
The hottest game: S.T.A.L.K.E.R
Documentation User guide
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 1-1
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 ROG intelligent Performance & Overclocking features
Crosslinx
Crosslinx is a unique technology utilizing a dedicated special graphics controller to
optimize PCIe allocation with x16, x8, x8 lanes. Such architecture eliminates the x4
bottleneck found on competing x16, x16, x4 solutions. Hence, the Crosslinx is able
to provide faster graphics performance.
Fusion Block System
The Fusion Block System is a more efcient thermal solution compared to
competing followers with complicated looks. It is a hybrid thermal design that
combines the ROG’s renowned heatpipe design with the additional ability to
connect to a water cooling system. By taking the entire integrated solution into
design considerations, the user can enjoy exceptional thermal improvement to
Northbridge, Southbridge, Crosslinx, and even VRM with a single connection. The
Fusion Block System is the most versatile, efcient, and advanced thermal system
there is on a motherboard.
Component Overheat Protection -EX (COP EX)
The COP EX allows overclockers to increase chipset voltages without the worries
of overheating. It can also be used to monitor and save an overheating GPU.
The COP EX allows more freedom and less constraint for maximum performance
achievement.
Frequency LED
Worried that no one knows when you’ve overclocked your system to the max? Let
the motherboard do the talking! The onboard Frequency LED highlights when your
system is under extreme overclocking or normal states � allowing you to show off
your O.C. skills.
Voltiminder LED
In the persuit of extreme performance, overvoltage adjustment is critical but risky.
Acting as the “red zone” of a tachometer, the Voltiminder LED displays the voltage
status for CPU, NB, SB, and Memory in a intuitive color-coded fashion. The
Voltiminder LED allows quick voltage monitoring for overclockers. See pages 2-1
to 2-3 for details.
1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
CPU Level Up
Enjoy up to 40% more performance! Overclock immediately with OC prole
presets. Much more than simple frequency settings, this prole gives gamers
comprehensive and detailed tuning to frequencies, voltagies, and even timings to
create a real professional level of overclocking conguration. See pages 4-17 and
5-33 for details.
2-Phase DDR3
With the embedded 2-Phase DDR3, this motherboard allows users to reach higher
memory frequencies and enjoy better performance. Compared with only one phase
solutions, this motherboard ensures longer power component lifespans and higher
overclockability due to cooler temperatures and better efciency.
3rd Generation 8 Phase Power Design
Longer Life & Higher Efciency!
With power efciency so important to operating temperatures, ASUS' 3rd
generation 8-phase VRM design leads the industry with its 95% power efciency.
High quality power components such as low RDS (on) MOSFETs for minimum
switching loss & lower temperatures, Ferrite core chokes with lower hysteresis
loss, and high quality Japanese-made conductive polymer capacitors all add up
to ensure longer component life and lower power loss - creating more energy
efciency.
Loadline Calibration
The Loadline calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage when heavy
loading.
Extreme Tweaker
This feature allows you to ne tune the CPU/memory voltage and gradually
increase the memory Front Side Bus (FSB) and PCI Express frequency at 1MHz
increment to achieve maximum system performance.
AI Booster
The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows
environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 1-3
ASUS O.C. Prole
The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Prole that allows users to conveniently
store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the
CMOS or a separate le, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite
settings. See page 4-40 for details.
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the
BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the
system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system
chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the
BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.
1.3.2 ROG unique features
Supreme FX II features
Supreme FX II extends all the features of the 1st generation and places a shielding
to enhancethe sound quality. It also lights up the model name with stylish LEDs.
Noise Filter
This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like
computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates
it in the incoming audio stream while recording. See page 5-15 and 5-20 for
details.
LCD Poster
The LCD Poster uses an external panel to smartly display the error message of the
physical system during the Power-On Self Test (POST) to inform you the boot error
instead of the “code name.”
Onboard Switches
A power-on button, a reset button, and a clear CMOS button are onboard to
provide overclockers and gamers the convenience of ne-tuning performance
when working on a bare (open-case) system. Press the power-on button to wake
up the system, the reset button to reboot, and the clear CMOS button to clear
setup information when the system hangs due to overclocking. See page 2-40 for
details.
1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
ASUS Q-Fan plus technology
The ASUS Q-Fan plus technology smartly adjusts the CPU and chassis fan
1 speeds according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efcient
operation. See pages 4-33, 4-34 and 5-31 for details.
Optional Fan
The optional fan is specically designed to provide sufcient airow over the CPU
power modules and chipset area when water-cooling or passive-cooling is utilized,
ensuring effective heat dissipation for the entire system. See page 2-41 for details.
(for water-cooling/passive-cooling only)
ASUS Multi-language BIOS
The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the
available options. The localized BIOS menus allow easier and faster conguration.
See page 4-12 for details.
ASUS MyLogo 3
This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add
style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 5-9 for details.
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the
overclocking capability.
ASUS EPU
The ASUS EPU utilizes innovative technology to digitally monitor and tune the
CPU power supply with improved VR responses in heavy or light loadings. It
automatically provides power for higher performance or improve efciency by 7%
when the PC is running low intensity applications. Working together with AI Gear 3,
this can help you attain the best possible power efciency and energy savings up
to 20% to help save the environment. See page 5-29 for details.
AI Nap
With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise
when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS
environment, simply click the mouse or press a key. See page 5-30 for
details.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 1-5
Fanless Design - Stack Cool 2
ASUS Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution that lowers
the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard
uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat
these critical components generate.
ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer
components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis
front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the
trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding
wrong cable connections. See page 2-39 for details.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data
from a USB ash disk containing the BIOS le. See page 4-8 for details.
ASUS EZ Flash 2
EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the predened
hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering the OS.
Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or using an
OS-based ash utility. See pages 4-5 and 4-39 for details.
1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.3.3 Product highlights
Republic of Gamers
The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We offer the best
hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we
welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are
only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything. We believe in making
statements and we excel in competitions. If your character matches our trait, then
join the elite club, make your presence felt, in the Republic of Gamers.
Intel® Quad-core Processor ready
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Quad-core processors in the LGA775
package and Intel’s next-generation 45nm multi-core processors. It is excellent for
multi-tasking, multi-media and enthusiastic gamers with 1333/1066/800 MHz FSB.
Intel® Quad-core processor is one of the most powerful CPU in the world. See
page 2-9 for details.
Intel® Core™2 Duo/ Intel® Core™2 Extreme CPU support
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™2 processor in the LGA775
package and Intel’s next-generation 45nm multi-core processors. With the new
Intel® Core™ microarchitecture technology and 1333/1066/800 MHz FSB, the
Intel® Core™2 is one of the most powerful and energy efcient CPUs in the world.
See page 2-8 for details.
Intel® X38 Chipset
The Intel® X38 Express Chipset is the latest chipset designed to support 8GB of
dual-channel DDR3 1333/1066/800 architecture, 1333/1066/800 FSB (Front Side
Bus), dual PCI Express 2.0 x16 graphics, and multi-core CPUs. With the specially
included Intel® Fast Memory Access technology, available memory bandwidth
usage is optimized and memory access latency is reduced—allowing faster
memory speed.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 1-7
PCIe 2.0
This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 device for twice the current speed
and bandwidth. This enhances system performance while still providing backward
compatibility to PCIe 1.0 devices. See pages 2-20 and 2-22 for details.
DDR3 memory support
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of
1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest
3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3
architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system
performance. Furthermore, this motherboard does not restrict the memory size
across two channels. Users may install different memory size DIMMs into the two
channels and enjoy dual-channel and single-channel functions at the same time.
This new feature optimizes the use of available memory size.
ATI CrossFire™ Technology
ATI’s CrossFire™ boosts image quality along with rendering speed, eliminating the
need to scale down screen resolution to get high quality images. CrossFire™ allows
higher antialiasing, anisotropic ltering, shading, and texture settings. Adjust your
display congurations, experiment with the advanced 3D settings, and check the
effects with a real-time 3D-rendered previews within ATI Catalyst™ Control Center.
Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s technology and SATA-On-The-Go
This motherboard supports the next-generation hard drives based on the Serial ATA
(SATA) 3Gb/s storage specication, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling
the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and saves. The external SATA port
located at the back I/O provides smart setup and hot-plug functions. Easily backup
photos, videos and other entertainment contents to external devices. See page
2-27 for details.
Dual RAID solution
The Intel® X38 chipset incorporates six Serial ATA connectors with high
performance RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 functions. Making this motherboard an ideal
solution to enhance hard disk performance and data back up protection without the
cost of add-on cards. See page 2-30 for details.
1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
IEEE 1394a support
The IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video
appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals
& other PC portable devices. See pages 2-28 and 2-32 for details.
S/PDIF digital sound ready
This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio
systems via coaxial and optical S/PDIF-out (SONY-PHILIPS Digital Interface)
jacks.It allows to transfer digital audio without converting to analog format and
keeps the best signal quality. See pages 2-28 and 2-37 for details.
Dual Gigabit LAN solution
The integrated dual Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network
gateway for managing trafc between two separate networks. This capability
ensures rapid transfer of data from WAN to LAN without any added arbitration or
latency. See page 2-26 for details.
High Denition Audio
Enjoy high-end sound quality on your PC! The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High
Denition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality
192KHz/24-bit audio output, jack-sensing feature, retasking functions and multi-
streaming technology that simultaneously sends different audio streams to different
destinations. You can now talk to your partners on the headphone while playing
multi-channel network games. See pages 2-27 for details.
Green ASUS
This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision
of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard
consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 1-9
1-10 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
This chapter lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It
includes description of the jumpers and
connectors on the motherboard.
information
Hardware
2
Chapter summary
2
2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview .................................................................
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................
2.4 System memory .........................................................................
2.5 Expansion slots ..........................................................................
2.6 Slide switch ................................................................................
2.7 EL I/O, LCD Poster and Audio card Installation ......................
2.8 Connectors .................................................................................
2-5
2-9
2-16
2-20
2-23
2-24
2-26
ASUS Maximus Extreme
2.1 Before you proceed
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME CPU LED
CPU_CRAZY
CPU_HIGH
CPU_NORMAL
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.
• Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or
a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling
components 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, and/or components.
Onboard LEDs
The motherboard comes with LEDs that indicate the voltage conditions of CPU,
memory, northbridge, southbridge and FSB frenquency. You may adjust the
voltages in BIOS. There are also an LED for hard disk drive activity and an onboard
switch for power status. For more information on voltage adjustment, refer to 4.4
Extreme Tweaker menu
1. CPU LED
The CPU LED has two voltage displays: CPU Voltage and CPU PLL Voltage;
you can select the voltage to display in BIOS. Refer to the illustration below
for the location of the CPU LED and the table below for LED denition.
CPU Voltage
CPU PLL Voltage
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-1
Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red)
1.10000~1.50000 1.50625~1.69375 1.70000~
1.50000~1.60000 1.62000~1.80000 1.82000~
2. Memory LED
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME DDR LED
DDR_CRAZY
DDR_HIGH
DDR_NORMAL
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME North/South Bridge LED
NB_CRAZY
NB_HIGH
NB_NORMAL
SB_CRAZY
SB_HIGH
SB_NORMAL
Refer to the illustration below for the location of the memory LED and the
table below for LED denition.
Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red)
DRAM Voltage
1.50~1.90 1.92~2.30 2.32~3.04
3. Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs
The northbridge and southbridge LEDs each have two different voltage
displays. The northbridge LED displays either the North Bridge Voltage or
the FSB Termination Voltage. The southbridge LED shows either the South
Bridge Voltage or the SB 1.5V Voltage. You can select the voltage to display
in BIOS. Refer to the illustration below for the location of the northbridge/
southbridge LEDs and the table below for LED denition.
Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red)
North Bridge Voltage
FSB Termination Voltage
South Bridge Voltage
SB 1.5V Voltage
2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information
1.25~1.49 1.51~1.73 1.73~
1.20~1.40 1.42~1.60 1.62~
1.050~1.125 1.150~1.175 1.200~
1.50~1.60 1.65~1.85 1.90~
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Frequency LED
Fast
Default
4. FSB frenquency LED
There are ve LEDs that light up to indicate the level of FSB frequency. One
lit yellow LED suggests that the frequency is low (default), while ve lit yellow
LEDs shows that the frequency is high (fast). Refer to the illustration below
for the location of the FSB frenquency LEDs and the table below for LED
denition.
CPU FSB
200MHz
CPU FSB
266MHz
CPU FSB
333MHz
200-299
(Default)
1
(Default)
266-299
(Default)
1
(Default)
333-399
(Default)
1
(Default)
300-399
(Overclocking)
2 3 4 5
300-399
(Overclocking)
2 3 4 5
400-499
(Overclocking)
2 3 4 5
400-499
(Overclocking)
400-499
(Overclocking)
500-549
(Overclocking)
500-599
(Overclocking)
500-599
(Overclocking)
550-599
(Overclocking)
600~
(Overclocking)
(Fast)
600~
(Overclocking)
(Fast)
600~
(Overclocking)
(Fast)
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-3
5. Hard Disk LED
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Hard Disk LED
HD_LED
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Power on switch
The HD LED is designed for indication of the hard disk activity. It blinks when
the data is written into or read from the hard disk drive. It stays unlit if there is
no hard disk connected to the motherboard or the hard disk does not function.
6. Power LED
The motherboard comes with a power-on switch as the standby power LED.
The switch 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 poweron switch.
2-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
2.2 Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the conguration of your chassis to
ensure that the motherboard ts into it.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the
motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage
motherboard components.
2.2.1 Placement direction
When installing the motherboard, make sure that you 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 below.
2.2.2 Screw holes
Place nine (9) 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.
Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-5
2.2.3 Motherboard layout
PANEL
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
CHASSIS
27cm (10.6in)
30.5cm (12.0in)
CPU_FAN
DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64 bit,240-pin module)
OPT_FAN3
FLOPPY
Super
I/O
CLRTC_SW
Intel
®
ICH9R
EATXPWR
CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
Intel
®
X38
KB_USB56
LAN2_USB34
JMB363
CHA_FAN1
Marvell
88E8056
SPDIF_OUT
LGA775
IE1394_2
USB78
EATX12V
ICS
PWR_FAN
DDR3 DIMM_A2 (64 bit,240-pin module)
DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64 bit,240-pin module)
DDR3 DIMM_B2 (64 bit,240-pin module)
BIOS
PCIEX1_1
PCIEX1_2
PCI1
PCIEX16_1
IDT
PES24N3
LAN1_USB12
VIA
VT6308P
OPT_TEMP3
ADH
DDR_CRAZY
DDR_HIGH
DDR_NORMAL
OPT_FAN2
OPT_TEMP2
CLR_CMOS
ALERT_LED
OC1_LED
OC2_LED
PWR_SW
RST_SW
SPDIF_O12
E1394
LCD_CON
SB_CRAZY
SB_HIGH
SB_NORMAL
FREQUENCY
Fast
Default
NB_CRAZY
NB_HIGH
NB_NORMAL
ESATA12
HD_LED
PCIEX16_3
PCI2
PCIEX16_2
PRI_IDE
USB910
SATA12
SATA34
SATA56
OPT_FAN1
OPT_TEMP1
CHA_FAN3CHA_FAN2
CPU_CRAZY
CPU_HIGH
CPU_NORMAL
Marvell
88E8056
USB1112
ROG
SUPREMEFX II
Listen with Absolute HD
2.2.4 Audio card layout
Refer to
2.8 Connectors
internal connectors.
for more information about rear panel connectors and
2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.5 Layout contents
Slots Page
1. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-16
2. PCI slots
3. PCI Express x 1 slots
4. PCI Express x16 slots 2-22
Slide switch Page
1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC_SW) 2-23
Rear panel connectors Page
1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 2-26
2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port
3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port
4. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port
5. Line In port (light blue)
6. Line Out port (lime)
7. Microphone port (pink)
8. Center/Subwoofer port (orange)
9. Rear Speaker Out port (black)
10. Side Speaker Out port (gray)
11. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4
12. External SATA port 1/2
13. IEEE 1394a port
14. Clear CMOS switch
15. Optical S/PDIF Out port
16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6
2-22
2-22
2-26
2-26
2-26
2-27
2-27
2-27
2-27
2-27
2-27
2-27
2-27
2-28
2-28
2-28
2-28
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-7
Internal connectors Page
1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 2-29
2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)
3. ICH9R Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6)
4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112)
5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)
6. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1-3)
7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1-3, 3-pin PWR_FAN,
3-pin OPT_FAN1-3)
8. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)
9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 2x4-pin EATX12V)
10. Digital audio connector
(4-1 pin SPDIF, for ASUS HDMI VGA card)
11. ROG connector (2-pin ROG)
12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
Onboard switches Page
1. Power-on switch 2-40
2. Reset switch
2-29
2-30
2-31
2-32
2-32
2-33
2-34
2-34
2-37
2-37
2-38
2-40
2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the
Intel® Core™2 Quad/ Core™2 Extreme/ Core™2 DUO/ Core™2/ Pentium
®
D/
Pentium® 4/ Pentium® Extreme.
• Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
• If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the
CHA_FAN1 connector to ensure system stability.
•
Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure 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 LGA775 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 Maximus Extreme 2-9
2.3.1 Installing the CPU
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME CPU Socket 775
To install a CPU:
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam box is facing towards you
and the load lever is on your left.
2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is
released from the retention tab.
Retention tab
A
Load lever
B
This side of the socket box
should face you.
To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you
are installing a CPU.
3. Lift the load lever in the direction of
the arrow to a 135º angle.
2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information
PnP cap
4. Lift the load plate with your thumb
and forenger to a 100º angle (A),
then push the PnP cap from the load
plate window to remove (B).
Alignment key
5. Position the CPU over the
socket, making sure that
the gold triangle is on the
bottom-left corner of the
socket then t the socket
alignment key into the
CPU notch.
The CPU ts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the
socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!
CPU notch
Gold triangle mark
B
A
Load plate
6. Close the load plate (A), then
A
push the load lever (B) until it
snaps into the retention tab.
7. If installing a dual-core CPU,
connect the chassis fan cable
B
to the CHA_FAN1 connector to
ensure system stability.
The motherboard supports Intel® LGA775 processors with the Intel® Enhanced
Memory 64 Technology (EM64T), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology
(EIST), and Hyper-Threading Technology. Refer to the Appendix for more
information on these CPU features.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-11
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan
The Intel® LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan
assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.
•
When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan
and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you
use only Intel®-certied multi-directional heatsink and fan.
•
Your Intel® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design
and requires no tool to install.
•
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make sure
that you have properly applied Thermal Interface Material to the CPU
heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.
Make sure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you
install the CPU fan and heatsink assembly.
To install the CPU heatsink and fan:
1. Place the heatsink on top of the
installed CPU, making sure that the
four fasteners match the holes on
the motherboard.
Orient the heatsink and fan
assembly such that the CPU fan
cable is closest to the CPU fan
connector.
Motherboard hole
Fastener
Narrow end
of the groove
Make sure to orient each fastener with the narrow end of the groove pointing
outward. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.)
2-12 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2. Push down two fasteners at a time
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME CPU fan connector
CPU_FAN
GND
CPU FAN PWR
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWM
in a diagonal sequence to secure
the heatsink and fan assembly in
place.
B
A
A
A
B
B
A
B
3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled
CPU_FAN.
DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors
will occur if you fail to plug this connector.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-13
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan:
1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from
the connector on the motherboard.
2. Rotate each fastener
counterclockwise.
3. Pull up two fasteners at a time in
a diagonal sequence to disengage
the heatsink and fan assembly from
the motherboard.
A
B
A
A
B
B
A
B
4. Carefully remove the heatsink
and fan assembly from the
motherboard.
2-14 Chapter 2: Hardware information
5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to
ensure correct orientation when
reinstalling.
The narrow end of the
groove should point outward
after resetting. (The photo
shows the groove shaded for
emphasis.)
Narrow end of the groove
Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for
detailed information on CPU fan installation.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-15
2.4 System memory
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME
240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets
DIMM_A2
DIMM_A1
DIMM_B2
DIMM_B1
2.4.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory
Modules (DIMM) sockets.
A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR3 DIMM but is
notched differently. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less
power consumption.
The gure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:
Channel Sockets
Channel A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2
Channel B DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2
The motherboard supports upto 1333MHz and provides more ratio setting items.
Refer to the table below for details.
FSB
1600 1333 1200 1000 800 1333 1111 1000 833 889
DDR3
2-16 Chapter 2: Hardware information
1600 1333 1066
2.4.2 Memory congurations
You may install 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB 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
conguration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then
mapped for single-channel operation.
• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum
compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the
same vendor.
• Due to chipset resource allocation, the system may detect less than 8 GB
system memory when you installed four 2 GB DDR3 memory modules.
• If you install four 1 GB memory modules, the system may detect less than
3 GB of total memory because of address space allocation for other critical
functions. This limitation applies to Windows Vista 32-bit/Windows XP 32-bit
version operating system since it does not support PAE (Physical Address
Extention) mode.
• If you install Windows Vista 32-bit/Windows XP 32-bit version operating
system, we recommend that you install less than 3GB of total memory.
Notes on memory limitations
• Due to chipset limitation, this motherboard can only support up to
8 GB on the operating systems listed below. You may install a maximum of
2 GB DIMMs on each slot.
64-bit
Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-17
Windows Vista x64 Edition
Maximus Extreme Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3-1333MHz capability
Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand
512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DG-E 8 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAFA-DG-E • • •
1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DG-E 8 ELPIDA DS EBJ11UD8BAFA-DG-E • •
512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DJ-E 9 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAFA-DJ-E • •
1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DJ-E 9 ELPIDA DS EBJ11UD8BAFA-DJ-E •
SS/
DS
Part No.
DIMM support
A* B* C*
Maximus Extreme Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3-1067 MHz capability
Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/DSPart No. DIMM support
512MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA SS IMSH51U03A1F1C-10F • • •
1024MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA DS IMSH1GU13A1F1C-10F • •
512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 8 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAFA-AG-E • • •
1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 8 ELPIDA DS EBJ11UD8BAFA-AG-E • •
512MB NANYA NT5CB64M8AN-BE N/A NANYA SS NT512C64B88A0NY-BF • •
1024MB MICRON D9GTR 7 MICRON SS MT8JTF12864AY-1G1BZES • • •
1024MB SAMSUNG K4B1G0846C-ZCF8 8 SAMSUNG SS M378B2873CZ0-CF8 • • •
512MB SAMSUNG K4B510846E-ZCG8 8 SAMSUNG SS M378B6573EZ0-CG8 • •
512MB Kingston IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA SS KVR1066D3N7/512 • • •
1024MB Kingston J5308BASE-AC-E N/A ELPIDA DS KVR1066D3N7/1G • • •
A* B* C*
Maximus Extreme Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3-800 MHz capability
Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand
512MB SAMSUNG K4B510846E-ZCE7 N/A SAMSUNG SS M378B6573EZ0-CE7 • • •
512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 6 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAFA-8C-E • • •
1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 6 ELPIDA DS EBJ11UD8BAFA-8C-E • • •
512MB NANYA NT5CB64M8AN-25D N/A NANYA SS NT512C64B88A0NY-25D • •
1024MB NANYA NT5CB64M8AN-25D N/A NANYA DS NT1GC64B8HA0NY-25D • •
1024MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-08E N/A QIMONDA DS IMSH1GU13A1F1C-08E • •
1024MB Hynix HY5TQ1G831ZNF-S6 N/A Hynix SS HYMT112U64ZNF8-S6 • •
2048MB Hynix HY5TQ1G831ZNF-S5 N/A Hynix DS HYMT125U64ZNF8-S5 • •
SS/
DS
Part No.
DIMM support
A* B* C*
SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided
DIMM support:
A - Supports one module inserted into either slot, in Single-channel memory conguration.
B - Supports one pair of modules inserted into either Channel A or Channel B as one pair of Dual-
channel memory conguration.
C - Supports four modules inserted into the blue and white slots as two pairs of Dual-channel
memory conguration.
Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR3-1333/1067/800 MHz QVL.
2-18 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.4.3 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.
To install a DIMM:
1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing
the retaining clips outward.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket
such that the notch on the DIMM
1
matches the break on the socket.
3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the
socket until the retaining clips
snap back in place and the DIMM
is properly seated.
• A DDR3 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one direction. DO
NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.
• The DDR3 DIMM sockets do not support DDR and DDR2 DIMMs. DO NOT
install DDR or DDR2 DIMMs to the DDR3 DIMM sockets.
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM
To remove a DIMM:
1. Simultaneously press the retaining
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.
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
3
DDR3 DIMM notch
1
Unlocked retaining clip
2
DDR3 DIMM notch
1
1
2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-19
2.5 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.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion
cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard
components.
2.5.1 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.
2.5.2 Conguring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings.
1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See
Chapter 4 for information on BIOS setup.
2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.
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, conicts will
arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card
inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details.
2-20 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments
Standard interrupt assignments
IRQ Priority Standard Function
0 1 System Timer
1 2 Keyboard Controller
2 — Re-direct to IRQ#9
3 11 IRQ holder for PCI steering*
4 12 Communications Port (COM1)*
5 13 IRQ holder for PCI steering*
6 14 Floppy Disk Controller
7 15 Printer Port (LPT1)*
8 3 System CMOS/Real Time Clock
9 4 IRQ holder for PCI steering*
10 5 IRQ holder for PCI steering*
11 6 IRQ holder for PCI steering*
12 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port*
13 8 Numeric Data Processor
14 9 Primary IDE Channel
15 10 Secondary IDE Channel
* These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A B C D E F G H
PCI slot 1 shared — — — — — — —
PCI slot 2 — shared — — — — — —
LAN(8001) shared — — — — — — —
SATA(363) shared — — — — — — —
LAN(8056) — shared — — — — — —
PCIE x16 1 shared — — — — — — —
PCIE x16 2 shared — — — — — — —
PCIE x1 1 — shared — — — — — —
PCIE x1 2 shared — — — — — — —
PCIE x1 3 — — shared — — — — —
USB controller 1 — — — — — — — shared
USB controller 2 — — — shared — — — —
USB controller 3 — — shared — — — — —
USB controller 4 shared — — — — — — —
USB controller 5 — — — — — shared — —
USB controller 6 — — shared — — — — —
USB 2.0 controller 1 — — — — — — — shared
USB 2.0 controller 2 — — shared — — — — —
SATA controller 1 — — — — — — shared —
SATA controller 2 — — — — — — shared —
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-21
2.5.4 PCI slots
The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other
cards that comply with PCI specications. The gure shows a LAN card installed
on a PCI slot.
2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other
cards that comply with the PCI Express specications.
• Install the audio card on the black PCIEx1 slot prior to other compatible
cards.
• When using PCIEx1 cards, install the cards on PCIEx1 slots prior to
PCIEx16 slots.
2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots
This motherboard has three PCI Express x16 slots that support PCI Express x16
graphic cards complying with the PCI Express specications. With two graphics
cards installed, the motherboard can enable dual-display.
This motherboard supports two ATI CrossFire™ PCI Express x16 graphics cards
that comply with the PCI Express specications.
• In CrossFire™ mode, install the ATI CrossFire™ Edition (Master) graphics
card on the primary PCI Express slot.
Install two ATI graphics cards from the same GPU family that support
•
CrossFire™ mode.
Audio slot
PCI slot
PCIE x16 slot
PCIE x1 slot
2-22 Chapter 2: Hardware information
PCI slot
PCIE x16 slot
PCIE x16 slot
2.6 Slide switch
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Clear RTC RAM
CLRTC_SW
DisableEnable
(Default)
1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC_SW)
This onboard slide switch allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch on the back
I/O. You can clear the CMOS memory and system setup parameters by erasing the
CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily to
clear the system setup information such as system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM:
1. Press down the
clr CMOS switch on the back I/O.
2. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to
re-enter data.
clr CMOS switch behavior
System power state G3* S5*
Clearing CMOS
*G3: Power off without +5VSB power (AC power loss); S5: Power off with +5VSB power
** The system shuts down immediately.
• The
clr CMOS
to the Disable position, but the shutdwon function in S0 mode (DOS mode)
still works.
• Make sure to re-enter your previous BIOS settings after you clear the
CMOS.
• You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to CPU
overclocking. With the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature, shut down
and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset CPU parameter
settings to default values. If the system hangs due to overclocking of
memory timing or chipset voltage and the power button fails to function,
pressing down the clr CMOS switch will shut down the system and clear
CMOS simultaneously.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-23
S0
(DOS mode)
S0
(OS mode)
S1 S3 S4
**
switch will not function if the CLRTC_SW switch is moved
2.7 EL I/O shield, LCD Poster
and Audio card Installation
2.7.1 EL I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation
1. Install the EL I/O shield to the
chassis by snaping it in place from
inside.
Be cautious when installing the motherboard. The I/O shield edge springs may
damage the I/O ports.
3.
Locate the
connect the shield cable to the
connector in a correct orientation.
P_ELJ1
connector and
2. Orient the motherboard and install
it to the chassis. Make sure that the
motherboard external ports t the
I/O openings.
4. Thread the LCD Poster cable
through the back I/O shield opening
until the stopper ts the opening.
5. Locate and connect the LCD
Poster cable to the
connector.
2-24 Chapter 2: Hardware information
LCD_con
6. Place the LCD Poster on the
chassis or to wherever you like.
2.7.2 Audio card Installation
1. Take out the Audio card from the
package.
3. Align the card connector with the
slot and press rmly until the card
sits on the slot completely.
2. Locate the audio slot on the
motherboard.
4. The photo below shows the audio
card installed on the motherboard.
ASUS Maximus Extreme
2-25
2.8 Connectors
2
1
1516
3 4
11121314
clr
CMOS
5
Line inMic inCen/SubRear-outSide-out Front-out
6
7
8
9
10
2.8.1 Rear panel connectors
1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.
2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port.
via a coaxial S/PDIF cable.
3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port.
Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN
port LED indications.
4. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port.
Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN
port LED indications.
This port connects an external audio output device
This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area
This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area
32-bit OS LAN port LED indications
Activity/Link Speed LED Description
OFF OFF Soft-off Mode
YELLOW* OFF During Power ON/OFF
YELLOW* ORANGE 100 Mbps connection
* Blinking
64-bit OS LAN port LED indications
2-26 Chapter 2: Hardware information
Activity/Link Speed LED Description
DNR DNR Soft-off Mode
DNR DNR During Power ON/OFF
DNR DNR 100 Mbps connection
DNR DNR 1 Gbps connection
ACT/LINK
LED
LAN port
SPEED
LED
5. Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or
other audio sources.
6. Line Out port (lime).
This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In
4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel conguration, the function of this port
becomes Front Speaker Out.
7. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.
8. Center/Subwoofer port (orange).
This port connects the center/subwoofer
speakers.
Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers on a
9.
4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio conguration.
Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an
10.
8-channel audio conguration.
Refer to the audio conguration table below for the function of the audio ports in
2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration.
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration
Port
Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In
Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In
Orange – – Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer
Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Ou Rear Speaker Out
Gray – – – Side Speaker Out
Headset
2-channel
4-channel 6-channel 8-channel
11. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
12. External SATA port 1/2. These ports connect to external Serial ATA hard
disk drives. To congure a RAID0, RAID1, RAID 10, RAID 5 or JBOD set,
connect external Serial ATA hard disk drives to the External SATA port 1 and
2.
The external SATA port supports
external Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s
devices. Longer cables support
higher power requirements to
deliver signal up to two meters
away, and enables improved hotswap function.
ASUS Maximus Extreme
2-27
• Before creating a RAID set using Serial ATA hard disks, make sure that you
have connected the Serial ATA signal cable and installed Serial ATA hard
disk drives; otherwise, you cannot enter the JMicron RAID utility and SATA
BIOS setup during POST.
• If you intend to create a RAID conguration using this connector, set the
J-Micron eSATA/PATA Controller Mode in the BIOS to [RAID]. See section
4.5.3 Onboard Device Conguration for details.
• When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the J-Micron eSATA/PATA Controller
Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI]. See section 4.5.3 Onboard Device
Conguration for details.
• Before creating a RAID set, refer to
the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
• DO NOT insert different connectors to the external SATA ports.
• DO NOT unplug the external Serial ATA box when a RAID 0 or JBOD is
congured.
5.4.4 JMicron® RAID Conguration or
13. IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed
connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable
devices.
14. Clear CMOS switch. Press the clear CMOS switch to clear setup information
when the system hangs due to overclocking.
15. Optical S/PDIF Out port
. This port connects an external audio output device
via an optical S/PDIF cable.
16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6.
These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
2-28 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.8.2 Internal connectors
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Floppy disk drive connector
NOTE: Orient the red markings on
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
PIN 1
FLOPPY
1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)
This connector is for the provided oppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert
one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the
signal connector at the back of the oppy disk drive.
Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when
using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.
2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)
The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable.
There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable:
blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE
connector, then select one of the following modes to congure your device.
Drive jumper setting Mode of
Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black
Two devices Cable-Select Master
Master Master Black or gray
Slave Slave
• Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the
Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you
connect the IDE cable.
• Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices.
ASUS Maximus Extreme
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device
jumpers have the same setting.
device(s)
Cable connector
Black
Slave Gray
2-29
3. ICH9R Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1~6)
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME IDE connector
NOTE: Orient the red markings
(usually zigzag) on the IDE
cable to PIN 1.
PRI_IDE
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME SATA connectors
GND
RSATA_TXP1
RSATA_TXN1
GND
RSATA_RXP1
RSATA_RXN1
GND
SATA1
GND
RSATA_TXP2
RSATA_TXN2
GND
RSATA_RXP2
RSATA_RXN2
GND
SATA2
GND
RSATA_TXP3
RSATA_TXN3
GND
RSATA_RXP3
RSATA_RXN3
GND
SATA3
GND
RSATA_TXP4
RSATA_TXN4
GND
RSATA_RXP4
RSATA_RXN4
GND
SATA4
GND
RSATA_TXP5
RSATA_TXN5
GND
RSATA_RXP5
RSATA_RXN5
GND
SATA5
GND
RSATA_TXP6
RSATA_TXN6
GND
RSATA_RXP6
RSATA_RXN6
GND
SATA6
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk
drives.
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID
1, RAID 5, RAID 10 conguration with the Intel® Matrix Storage Technology
through the onboard Intel® ICH9R RAID controller.
•
These connectors are set to Standard IDE mode by default. In Standard
IDE mode, you can connect Serial ATA boot/data hard disk drives to these
connectors. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these
connectors, set the Congure SATA as item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See
section 4.3.6 SATA Conguration for details.
•
For RAID 5, use at least three hard disk drives. For RAID 10, use at least
four hard disk drives. Use two to four Serial ATA hard disk drives for each
RAID 0 or RAID 1 set.
• Before creating a RAID set, refer to
manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
5.4.3 Intel® RAID Conguration or the
2-30 Chapter 2: Hardware information
You must install the Windows® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA hard
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
USB+5V
USB_P10-
USB_P10+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P9-
USB_P9+
GND
USB+5V
USB_P8-
USB_P8+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P7-
USB_P7+
GND
MAXIMUS EXTREME
USB 2.0 connectors
USB1112
USB910 USB78
USB+5V
USB_P10-
USB_P10+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P9-
USB_P9+
GND
disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature (RAID 0/RAID 1/RAID 5/RAID 10) is
available only if you are using Windows® XP or later version.
right angle side
Connect the right-angle side
of SATA signal cable to SATA
device. Or you may connect the
right-angle side of SATA cable to
the onboard SATA port to avoid
mechanical conict with huge
graphics cards.
4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB 78, USB 910, USB 1112)
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable
to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the
back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0
specication that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed.
ASUS Maximus Extreme
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!
You can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) rst, and
then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard.
2-31
5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
PIN 1
TPA1-
GND
TPB1-
+12V
GND
TPA1+
GND
TPB1+
+12V
MAXIMUS EXTREME IEEE 1394a connector
IE1394_2
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME
Thermal sensor cable connectors
OPT_TEMP3
Temperature
Ground
Temperature
Ground
OPT_TEMP1
Temperature
Ground
OPT_TEMP2
This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back
of the system chassis.
Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage
the motherboard!
You can connect the 1394 cable to ASUS Q-Connector (1394, red) rst, and
then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector onboard.
6. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1-3)
These connectors are for temperature monitoring. Connect the thermal
sensor cables to these connectors and place the other ends to the devices.
The OPT_TEMP1/2/3 connectors are for the devices that you want to monitor
temperature. The optional fans can work with the temperature sensors for a
better cooling effect.
in BIOS if you connect thermal sensor
2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information
Enable
cables to these connectors.
OPT_TEMP1/2/3 Protection
7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Fan connectors
CPU_FAN
GND
CPU FAN PWR
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWM
PWR_FAN
OPT_FAN1 OPT_FAN2
GND
Rotation
+12V
CHA_FAN2
PWR_FAN
CHA_FAN1
OPT_FAN3
CHA_FAN2
CHA_FAN3
GND
Rotation
+12V
CHA_FAN1
GND
Rotation
+12V
CHA_FAN3
GND
Rotation
+12V
CPU_FAN
OPT_FAN1
OPT_FAN2
GND
Rotation
+12V
GND
Rotation
+12V
GND
Rotation
+12V
OPT_FAN3
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1-3, 3-pin PWR_FAN,
3-pin OPT_FAN1-3)
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA ~ 1000 mA (24 W max.) or
a total of 1 A ~ 3.48 A (41.76 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the
fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each
cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air
ow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are
not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors!
• If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the chassis fan
cable to the motherboard connector labled CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2 for
better themal environment.
• Only the CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN1-3 and OPT_FAN1-2 support ASUS Q-Fan
feature.
ASUS Maximus Extreme
2-33
8. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Chassis intrusion connector
CHASSIS
+5VSB_MB
Chassis Signal
GND
(Default)
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME ATX power connectors
EATXPWR
EATX12V
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
Ground
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
Ground
Ground
Power OK
+5V Standby
+12 Volts
-5 Volts
+5 Volts
+3 Volts
-12 Volts
Ground
Ground
Ground
PSON#
Ground
+5 Volts
+12 Volts
+3 Volts
+5 Volts
Ground
GND
+12V DC
GND
+12V DC
GND
+12V DC
GND
+12V DC
This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch.
Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this
connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to
this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal
is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.
By default , the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with
a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the
chassis intrusion detection feature.
9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs
are designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper
orientation and push down rmly until the connectors completely t.
• Make sure to remove the cap on the EATX12V connector before connecting
2-34 Chapter 2: Hardware information
• Use only an 8-pin EPS +12V power plug for the EATX12V connector.
an 8-pin EPS +12V power plug.
•
For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply
unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version)
and provides a minimum power of 550 W.
• Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8pin EATX12V power plug; otherwise,
the system will not boot.
• Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when
conguring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system
may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
• If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your
system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator
at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.
aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.
• If you want to use two high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with
500W to 600W power or above to ensure the system stability.
Power supply requirements
Heavy Loading
CPU SMF 3.2XE
DDR533 256MB*4
PCI-E VGA Nvidia 7950GTX*2
SATA-HD 6
ESATA-HD 2
IDE-HD 1
CD-ROM 1
USB 2
PCI-E 1X 0
PCI 0
+12VV2
(4 PIN)
Io_max
(A)
Io_rms
(A)
Vout (V) 11.93 11.9 5.022 3.316 11.42 11.95
Po_max
(W)
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-35
17 11.4 5.66 9.18 15.76 7.6 7.96 0.548
12.35 7.68 4.42 8.52 10.74 3.32 5.26 0.413
202.81 135.66 28.42 30.44 179.98 90.82 4.993 5.054 678.18
+12VV1
(24PIN)
+5V +3.3V VGA
+12V
(continued on the next page)
HDD
+12V
HDD
+5V
Total
PSU
Po_
max
(W)
Power supply requirements
Normal Loading
CPU PSC 3.73G 1066
DDR800 1GB*2
VGA Nvidia
SATA-HD SATA*4
ESATA-HD 1
IDE-HD 1
CD-ROM 1
USB 2
PCI 1
7800GTX*2
+12VV2
(4 PIN)
Io_max
(A)
Io_rms
(A)
Vout (V) 11.94 11.9 5.026 3.32 11.57 11.99 5.04 5.05
Po_max
(W)
Light Loading
CPU PSC 3.8G EM64T
DDR667 512MB*2
VGA Nvidia 7800GTX*1
SATA-HD SATA*2
IDE-HD 1
CD-ROM 1
USB 1
PCI 1
Io_max
(A)
Io_rms
(A)
Vout (V) 11.93 11.93 5.026 3.33 11.91 12.03 5.09 5.066
Po_max
(W)
12.72 11.44 6.88 8.72 8.88 4.04 4.14 0.588
9.16 8.1 5.6 8 5.86 2.14 2.92 0.435
151.88 136.14 34.58 28.95 102.74 48.44 20.87 2.97 526.56
+12VV2
(4 PIN)
12.36 7.6 8.44 3.24 4.28 4.34 3.58 0.556
8.98 4.8 6.76 3.01 2.84 23.4 2.48 0.396
147.45 90.67 42.42 10.79 50.97 52.21 18.22 2.82 415.56
+12VV1
(24PIN)
+12VV1
(24PIN)
+5V +3.3V VGA
+12V
+5V +3.3V VGA
+12V
HDD
+12V
HDD
+12V
HDD
+5V
HDD
+5V
+5VSB Total
+5VSB Total
PSU
Po_
max
(W)
PSU
Po_
max
(W)
2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Digital audio connector
+5V
SPDIFOUT
GND
SPDIF_OUT
10. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF, for ASUS HDMI VGA card)
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME ROG connector
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)
port(s). If you are using ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card, connect the
HDMI card to this connector with a S/PDIF out cable.
The ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card and S/PDIF out cable are purchased
separately.
11. ROG connector (2-pin ROG)
This connector is for the box (labeled as Republic of Gamers) on the
heatpipe assembly. Connect the cable of the box and it lights when the
system is on.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-37
12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME System panel connector
* Requires an ATX power supply.
PANEL
PLED-
PWR
+5V
Speaker
Ground
RESET
Ground
Reset
Ground
Ground
PWRSW
PLED+
IDE_LED-
IDE_LED+
IDE_LED
PLED SPEAKER
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.
•
System power LED (2-pin PLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis
power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when
you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
•
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity
LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or ashes when data is
read from or written to the HDD.
•
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The
speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
•
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button
turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending
on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds
while the system is ON turns the system OFF.
•
Reset button (2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system
reboot without turning off the system power.
2-38 Chapter 2: Hardware information
ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)
You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel
cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS QConnector.
1. Connect the front panel cables to the
ASUS Q-Connector.
Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector
to know the detailed pin denitions, then
match them to the respective front panel
cable labels.
2. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the
system panel connector, making sure
the orientation matches the labels on the
motherboard.
3. The front panel functions are now enabled.
The gure shows the Q-Connector properly
installed on the motherboard.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-39
2.8.3 Onboard switches
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Power on switch
MAXIMUS EXTREME
®
MAXIMUS EXTREME Reset switch
Onboard switches allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare
or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually
change settings to enhance system performance.
1. Power-on switch
Press the clear power-on switch to wake/power up the system.
2. Reset switch
Press the reset switch to reboot the system.
2-40 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.8.4 Installing the optional fans
Install the optional fan only if you are using a passive cooler or a water cooler.
Installing the optional fan with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airow
and destabilize the system.
Optional fan on one side ns
1. Position the fan above the pipe
and heatsink assembly.
3. Carefully push down the fan until
it snugly ts the heatsink, then
connect the fan cable.
2. Fit the fan to the grooved edge of
the heatsink.
4. The photo shows the fan installed
on the motherboard.
Plug the optional fan cables to the CHA_FAN2, CHA_FAN3 or PWR_FAN
connector on the motherboard.
When you are using water-cooling modules, make sure to install TWO optional
fans to obtain a more effective heat dissipation.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-41
2.8.5 Installing the DIY Pedestal
1. Take out the DIY Pedestal from
the motherboard package.
2. Arrange and stick the DIY Pedestal to the back of your motherboard.
3. Place the motherboard with the
DIY Pedestal as desired to get a
more efcient heat dissipation.
• The tape on the rubber studs is for one-time use. Replace the tape if the
adhesive surface fails to function.
• You can use the DIY Pedestal in other creative ways based on your needs.
2-42 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.8.6 Installing Fusion Block System accessory
Install your watercooling system to the motherboard using the bundled accessories
to obtain the best thermal solution.
Package contents
3/8” ID tubes x 2 1/2” to 3/8” ID ttings x 2 10mm to 3/8” ID ttings x 2
1/2” ID tube clips x 2 3/8” ID tube clips x 6
The pictures below are for demonstration only. The heatpipe assembly and
motherboard layout may vary depending on model, but the installation steps
remains the same.
For watercooling system with 3/8” ID tubes
1. Firmly press a tube clip and t the tube into the clip.
2. Press the clip and connect the tube to the waterblock. When done, release
the clip to tighten the two together.
3. Repeat Step 1 and 2 for another tube. Make sure that both tubes are well
connected to prevent leak, and then ll the coolant into the reservoir.
1
ASUS Maximus Extreme 2-43
2
For watercooling system with 1/2” or 10mm ID tubes
1. Insert a tting (1/2” to 3/8” ID or 10mm to 3/8” ID) into the tube.
Your watercooling system may come with tube clips. Use the clips to fasten the
ttings and the tubes together.
2. Connect a supplied 3/8” ID tube to the tting.
3. Firmly press a tube clip and hitch it to the bottom end of the 3/8” ID tube.
4. Press another clip and hitch it to the top end of the 3/8” ID tube.
1
2
3
4
5. Press the clip and connect the assembled tube to the waterblock. When
done, release the clip to tighten the two together.
6. Repeat Step 1 to 5 for another tube. Make sure that both tubes are well
connected to prevent leak, and then ll the coolant into the reservoir. The
picture shows a watercooling system installed to the motherboard.
5
6
2-44 Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter describes the power up
sequence, the vocal POST messages,
and ways of shutting down the system.
Powering up
3
Chapter summary
3
3.1 Starting up for the rst time ........................................................ 3-1
3.2 Turning off the computer .............................................................
3-2
ASUS Maximus Extreme
3.1 Starting up for the rst time
1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
2. Be sure that all switches are off.
3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system
chassis.
4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge
protector.
5. Turn on the devices in the following order:
a. Monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power
6. After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case
lights up. For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up
when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with “green”
standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up
or switch between orange and green after the system LED turns on.
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are
running, the BIOS beeps (see BIOS beep codes table below) or additional
messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30
seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed a
power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer
for assistance.
BIOS Beep Description
One short beep VGA detected
One continuous beep followed by two
short beeps then a pause (repeated)
One continuous beep followed by three
short beeps
One continuous beep followed by four
short beeps
Quick boot set to disabled
No keyboard detected
No memory detected
No VGA detected
Hardware component failure
7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 4.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 3-1
3.2 Turning off the computer
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function
If you are using Windows® XP:
1. Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer.
2. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer.
3. The power supply should turn off after Windows
If you are using Windows® Vista:
®
shuts down.
1. Click the Start button then select ShutDown.
2. The power supply should turn off after Windows
®
shuts down.
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts
the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting.
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the
soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section
4.5 Power Menu
Chapter 4 for details.
in
3-2 Chapter 3: Powering up
This chapter tells how to change
the system settings through the BIOS
Setup menus. Detailed descriptions
of the BIOS parameters are also
provided.
BIOS setup
4
Chapter summary
4
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1
4.2 BIOS setup program ....................................................................
4.3 Main menu ..................................................................................
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu .............................................................
4.5 Advanced menu .........................................................................
4.6 Power menu ................................................................................
4.7 Boot menu ..................................................................................
4.8 Tools menu .................................................................................
4.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 4-42
4-9
4-12
4-17
4-24
4-30
4-35
4-39
ASUS Maximus Extreme
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic
Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.
1.
ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.)
ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a oppy disk or USB ash disk.)
2.
ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS using a bootable oppy disk.)
3.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable oppy disk,
4.
USB ash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS le fails or
gets corrupted.)
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a bootable oppy disk or
USB ash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the
original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities.
4.1.1 ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the
motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you
to:
• Save the current BIOS le
• Download the latest BIOS le from the Internet
• Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS le
• Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and
• View the BIOS version information.
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard
package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an
Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Installing ASUS Update
To install ASUS Update:
1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.
2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX.
3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-1
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet
To update the BIOS through the Internet:
1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update
main window appears.
®
desktop by clicking Start
2. Select Update BIOS from the
Internet option from the drop-down
menu, then click Next.
4-2 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest
you to avoid network trafc, or
click Auto Select. Click Next.
4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS
version that you wish to download.
Click Next.
5. Follow the screen instructions to
complete the update process.
The ASUS Update utility is
capable of updating itself through
the Internet. Always update the
utility to avail all its features.
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS le
To update the BIOS through a BIOS le:
1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update
main window appears.
2. Select Update BIOS from a le
option from the drop-down menu,
then click Next.
®
desktop by clicking Start
3. Locate the BIOS le from the Open
window, then click Open.
4. Follow the screen instructions to
Maximus Extreme
complete the update process.
Maximus Extreme
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-3
4.1.2 Creating a bootable oppy disk
1. Do either one of the following to create a bootable oppy disk.
DOS environment
a. Insert a 1.44MB oppy disk into the drive.
format
b. At the DOS prompt, type
Windows® XP environment
a. Insert a 1.44 MB oppy disk to the oppy disk drive.
b. Click
c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.
d. Click File from the menu, then select
e. Select
2. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS le to the bootable oppy
disk.
Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer.
Disk window appears.
Create an MS-DOS startup disk from the format options eld,
then click Start.
A:/S then press <Enter>.
Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy
4-4 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go
through the long process of booting from a oppy disk and using a DOS-based
utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing
<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:
1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS le for
the motherboard.
2. Save the BIOS le to a oppy disk or a USB ash disk, then restart the
system.
3. You can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods.
Insert the oppy disk / USB ash disk that contains the BIOS le to the
(1)
oppy disk drive or the USB port.
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.06
FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L1605A
Current ROM
BOARD: MAXIMUS Extreme
VER: 0108
DATE: 09/19/07
PATH: A:\
A:
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
Note
[Enter] Select or Load [B] Backup [ESC] Exit
[Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move
(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the
Tools menu to select EZ Flash2
and press <Enter> to enable it.
You can switch between drives by pressing <Tab> before the correct le
is found. Then press <Enter>.
4. When the correct BIOS le is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update
process and automatically reboots the system when done.
• This function can support devices such as USB ash disk, or oppy disk
with
FAT 32/16
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent
system boot failure!
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-5
format and single partition only.
4.1.4 AFUDOS utility
The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS le in DOS environment using
a bootable oppy disk with the updated BIOS le. This utility also allows you to
copy the current BIOS le that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets
corrupted during the updating process.
Copying the current BIOS
To copy the current BIOS le using the AFUDOS utility:
• Make sure that the oppy disk is not write-protected and has at least
1024KB free space to save the le.
• The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only. The actual BIOS
screen displays may not be same as shown.
1. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to
the bootable oppy disk you created earlier.
2. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:
afudos /o[lename]
where the [lename] is any user-assigned lename not more than eight
alphanumeric characters for the main lename and three alphanumeric
characters for the extension name.
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom
Main lename Extension name
3. Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS le to the oppy disk.
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.
Reading ash ..... done
Write to le...... ok
A:\>
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS le.
Updating the BIOS le
To update the BIOS le using the AFUDOS utility:
1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS le for
the motherboard. Save the BIOS le to a bootable oppy disk.
4-6 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Write the BIOS lename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS
lename at the DOS prompt.
2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to
the bootable oppy disk you created earlier.
3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:
afudos /i[lename]
where [lename] is the latest or the original BIOS le on the bootable oppy
disk.
A:\>afudos /iMaximus Extreme.ROM
4. The utility veries the le and starts updating the BIOS.
A:\>afudos /iMaximus Extreme.ROM
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during ash BIOS
Reading le ....... done
Reading ash ...... done
Advance Check ......
Erasing ash ...... done
Writing ash ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%)
Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent
system boot failure!
5. The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is
completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive.
A:\>afudos /iMaximus Extreme.ROM
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during ash BIOS
Reading le ....... done
Reading ash ...... done
Advance Check ......
Erasing ash ...... done
Writing ash ...... done
Verifying ash .... done
Please restart your computer
A:\>
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-7
4.1.5 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
update a corrupted BIOS le using the motherboard support DVD, the oppy disk,
or the USB ash disk that contains the updated BIOS le.
Prepare the motherboard support DVD, the oppy disk or the USB ash disk
containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.
Recovering the BIOS from the support DVD
To recover the BIOS from the support DVD:
1. Turn on the system.
2. Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive.
3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the DVD
for the BIOS le.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for oppy...
When found, the utility reads the BIOS le and starts ashing the corrupted
BIOS le.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for oppy...
Floppy found!
Reading le “Maximus Extreme.ROM”. Completed.
Start ashing...
4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.
Recovering the BIOS from the USB ash disk
To recover the BIOS from the USB ash disk:
1. Insert the USB ash disk that contains BIOS le to the USB port.
2. Turn on the system.
3. The utility will automatically checks the devices for the BIOS le When found,
the utility reads the BIOS le and starts ashing the corrupted BIOS le.
4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.
• Only the USB ash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition can
support ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3. The device size should be smaller than
8GB.
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so
can cause system boot failure!
4-8 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.2 BIOS setup program
This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip
that you can update using the provided utility described in section 4.1 Managing
and updating your BIOS.
Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconguring
your system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to congure
your system using this utility.
Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the
conguration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the
security password feature or change the power management settings. This
requires you to recongure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the
computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the
SPI chip.
The SPI chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up the
computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press
<Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise,
POST continues with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, restart the system by pressing
<Ctrl+Alt+Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. You can
also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if
the rst two failed.
The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make
your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.
• The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions
to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after
changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system
compatibility and stability. Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the
Exit Menu. See section 4.9 Exit Menu.
• 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 (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS le for
this motherboard.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-9
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen
Menu bar
Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
System Time [10:55:25]
System Date [Wed 08/22/2007]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]
Language [English]
SATA 1 [Not Detected]
SATA 2 [Not Detected]
SATA 3 [Not Detected]
SATA 4 [Not Detected]
SATA 5 [Not Detected]
SATA 6 [Not Detected]
SATA Conguration
System Information
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
Sub-menu items
Conguration eldsMenu items
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
General help
Use [ENTER], [TAB] or
[SHIFT-TAB] to select
a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system Time.
Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Field
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Navigation keys
4.2.2 Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main For changing the basic system conguration
Extreme Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings
Advanced For changing the advanced system settings
Power For changing the advanced power management (APM)
conguration
Boot For changing the system boot conguration
Tools For Conguring options for special functions
Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default
settings
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard
until the desired item is highlighted.
4.2.3 Navigation keys
At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that
particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change
the settings.
Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.
4-10 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.2.4 Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar
displays the specic items for that
menu. For example, selecting Main
shows the Main menu items.
The other items (Advanced, Power,
Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have
their respective menu items.
System Time [06:22:54]
System Date [Wed 08/22/2007]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]
Language [English]
SATA 1 [Not Detected]
SATA 2 [Not Detected]
SATA 3 [Not Detected]
SATA 4 [Not Detected]
SATA 5 [Not Detected]
SATA 6 [Not Detected]
SATA Conguration
System Information
Main menu items
Use [ENTER], [TAB],
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system.
4.2.5 Sub-menu items
A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has a
sub-menu. To display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>.
4.2.6 Conguration elds
These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- congurable,
you can change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item
that is not user-congurable.
A congurable eld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To
change the value of a eld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options.
Refer to 4.2.7 Pop-up window.
4.2.7 Pop-up window
Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the
conguration options for that item.
4.2.8 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.
4.2.9 General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen
is a brief description of the selected item.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-11
Pop-up window
Scroll bar
4.3 Main menu
When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving
you an overview of the basic system information.
Refer to section 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen
items and how to navigate through them.
Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
System Time [10:55:25]
System Date [Thu 08/22/2007]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]
Language [English]
SATA 1 [Not Detected]
SATA 2 [Not Detected]
SATA 3 [Not Detected]
SATA 4 [Not Detected]
SATA 5 [Not Detected]
SATA 6 [Not Detected]
SATA Conguration
System Information
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Use [ENTER], [TAB] or
[SHIFT-TAB] to select
a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system Time.
Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Field
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
Allows you to set the system time.
4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
Allows you to set the system date.
4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
Sets the type of oppy drive installed.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
4.3.4 Language [English]
Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options.
Conguration options: [Chinese BIG5] [Chinese (GB)] [Japanese] [Français]
[German] [English]
4-12 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.3.5 SATA 1-6
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA
devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item
then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.
Main
SATA 1
Device :Not Detected
Type [Auto]
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Block(Multi-Sector Transfer) [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
DMA Mode [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device,
Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and
SMART monitoring). These values are not user-congurable. These items show
N/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.
Type [Auto]
Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the
appropriate IDE device type. Select [CDROM] if you are specically conguring a
CD-ROM drive. Select [ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is
either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive.
Conguration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Select the type of
device connected to
the system.
Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the
device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA
mode disabled. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
Block (Multi-sector Transfer) [Auto]
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data
transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device
supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer
from and to the device occurs one sector at a time.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
Selects the PIO mode.
Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-13
DMA Mode [Auto]
Selects the DMA mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1]
[SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2]
[UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4.3.6 SATA Conguration
The items in this menu allow you to set or change the congurations for the SATA
devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to
congure the item.
SATA Conguration
SATA Conguraton [Enhanced]
Congure SATA as [IDE]
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled]
IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35]
Options
Disabled
Compatible
Enhanced
SATA Conguration [Enhanced]
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Compatible] [Enhanced]
Configure SATA as [IDE]
Sets the conguration for the Serial ATA connectors supported by the
Southbridge chip.
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.
If you want to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, or the Intel
Matrix Storage Technology conguration from the Serial ATA hard disk drives,
set this item to [RAID].
If you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical
storage devices, keep the defaul setting [IDE].
4-14 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
®
If you want the Serial ATA hard disk drives to use the Advanced Host Controller
Interface (AHCI), set this item to [AHCI].
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled]
Disables or enables device write protection. This will be effective only if device is
accessed through BIOS. Conguration option: [Disabled] [Enabled]
IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35]
Selects the time out value for detecting ATA/ATAPI devices.
Conguration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35]
4.3.7 AHCI Conguration
This menu is for AHCI conguration. It appears only when you set the Congure
SATA as item under SATA Conguration to [AHCI].
AHCI Settings
AHCI CD/DVD Boot Time out [15]
AHCI Port1 [Not Detected]
AHCI Port2 [Not Detected]
AHCI Port3 [Not Detected]
AHCI Port4 [Not Detected]
AHCI Port5 [Not Detected]
AHCI Port6 [Not Detected]
Some SATA CD/DVD in
AHCI mode need to
wait ready longer.
AHCI CD/DVD Boot Time out [15]
Allows you to set the waiting time for SATA CD/DVD in AHCI mode.
Conguration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35]
AHCI Port1~6 [XXX]
Displays the auto-detected SATA devices.
AHCI Port1
Device :Not Detected
SATA Port1 [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Enabled]
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-15
Select the type of
devices connected to
the system.
SATA Port1 [Auto]
Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Not Installed]
SMART Monitoring [Enabled]
Enables or disables the Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology
(SMART). Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4.3.8 System Information
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specications. The BIOS
automatically detects the items in this menu.
Main
AMIBIOS
Version : 0108
Build Date : 09/19/07
Processor
Type : Intel(R) Core(TM)2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86GHz
Speed : 1876MHz
Count : 2
System Memory
Available : 2048 MB
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Select Screen
Select Item
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
AMI BIOS
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.
Processor
Displays the auto-detected CPU specication.
System Memory
Displays the auto-detected system memory.
4-16 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu
The Extreme Tweaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related
items.
Take caution when changing the settings of the Extreme Tweaker menu items.
Incorrect eld values can cause the system to malfunction.
Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Congure System Performance Settings
CPU Level Up [Auto]
Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]
CPU Ratio Control [Auto]
FSB Strap to North Bridge [Auto]
DRAM Frequency [Auto]
DRAM Command Rate [Auto]
DRAM Timing Control [Auto]
Primary Info : 6-6-6-15-4-36-6-4
Secondary Info : 8-4-6-4-7-4-7
DRAM Static Read Control [Auto]
DRAM Dynamic Write Control [Auto]
Ai Clock Twister [Auto]
Ai Clock Skew for Channel A [Auto]
Ai Clock Skew for Chaneel B [Ato]
Ai Transaction Booster [Auto]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Select the desired CPU
level, and relevant
parameters will be
auto-adjusted based on
the CPU level chosen.
If you would like to
adjust other settings
in more details, set
Ai Overclock Tuner to
Manual after you
select a CPU level.
Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Scroll down to see more items.
NB LED Selection [NB Volt]
SB LED Selection [SB Volt]
CPU LED Selection [CPU Volt]
Frequency LED [Turn on]
Voltiminder LED [Enabled]
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]
PCIE Spread spectrum [Auto]
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2006, American Megatrends, Inc.
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
4.4.1 Congure System Performance Settings
CPU Level Up [Auto]
Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically
adjusted according to the selected CPU level. If you want to manually congure the
settings in detail, set Ai Overclock Tuner to [Manual] after selecting a CPU level.
Conguration options: [Auto] [E6400] [E6550] [E6600] [E6700] [X6800] [E6850]
The conguration options may vary depending on your CPU type.
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-17
Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]
Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal
frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking conguration options:
Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.
Auto Loads the standard settings for the system.
X.M.P Loads the optimal settings for the system.
CPU Level Up Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters
Some of the following items appear when you set Ai Overclock Tuner to
[Manual] or [X.M.P]. The items vary depending on which option you select.
will be adjusted automatically.
eXtreme Memory Prole [Prole #1]
Allows you to select the memory prole during overclocking between [Prole #1]
(high performance) and [Prole #2] (high frequency). This item appears only when
you set Ai Overclock Tuner to [X.M.P.].
Conguration options: [Prole #1] [Prole #2]
OC By CPU Level Up [Select Level]
After you to select a CPU level, the FSB Frequency and DRAM Frequency items
will be adjusted accordingly. This item appears only when you set Ai Overclock
Tuner to [Manual].
Conguration options: [Select Level] [E6400] [E6550] [E6600] [E6700] [X6800]
[E6850]
CPU Ratio Control [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following item appears when the CPU Ratio Control item is set to
[Manual].
Ratio CMOS Setting [7]
Whether this item is congurable depends on your CPU type. The valid value
ranges differently according to your CPU type. If this item is congurable,
enter the value using the numeric keypad.
FSB Frequency [XXX]
Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI
bus. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the FSB frequency. You can also type
the desired FSB frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200
to 800. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External
Frequency settings. This item appears only when you set Ai Overclock Tuner to
[Manual].
4-18 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
FSB/CPU External Frequency Synchronization
Front Side Bus CPU External Frequency
FSB 1333 333 MHz
FSB 1066 266 MHz
FSB 800 200 MHz
FSB Strap to North Bridge [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [200MHz] [266MHz] [333MHz]
PCIE Frequency [Auto]
Allows you to set the PCI Express frequency.
Conguration options: [100] [101]~[149] [150]
DRAM Frequency [Auto]
Allows you to set the DDR3 operating frequency.
Conguration options: [Auto] [DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-887 MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz]
A very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default setting.
The conguration options may vary depending on the CPU level you select.
DRAM Command Rate [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T]
DRAM Timing Control [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following items appear when you set the DRAM Timing Control item to
[Manual].
CAS# Latency [ 5 DRAM Clocks]
Conguration options: [5 DRAM Clocks] [6 DRAM Clocks]~[10 DRAM Clocks]
[11 DRAM Clocks]
RAS# to CAS# Delay [ 5 DRAM Clocks]
Conguration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks]~[17 DRAM Clocks]
[18 DRAM Clocks]
RAS# Precharge [ 5 DRAM Clocks]
Conguration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks]~[17 DRAM Clocks]
[18 DRAM Clocks]
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-19
RAS# Active Time [15 DRAM Clocks]
Conguration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks]~[33 DRAM
Clocks] [34 DRAM Clocks]
RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
ROW Refresh Cycle Time [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [30 DRAM Clocks] [36 DRAM Clocks]
[48 DRAM Clocks] [60 DRAM Clocks] [72 DRAM Clocks]
Write Recovery Time [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
Read to Precharge Time [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
Read to Write Delay(S/D) [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
Write to Read Delay(S) [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
Write to Read Delay(D) [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
Read to Read Delay(S) [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
Read to Read Delay(D) [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
Write to Write Delay(S) [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
Write to Write Delay(D) [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]
DRAM Static Read Control [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
DRAM Dynamic Write Control [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
Ai Clock Twister [Auto]
Allows you to congure the DRAM performance. Setting to [Light] enhances the
DRAM compatibility; setting to [Strong] enhances the DRAM performance.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Moderate] [Light] [Strong]
4-20 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Ai Clock Skew for Channel A [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 350ps] [Advance 300ps] [Advance 250ps]
[Advance 200ps] [Advance 150ps] [Advance 100ps] [Advance 50ps] [Normal] [Delay 50ps]
[Delay 100ps] [Delay 150ps] [Delay 200ps] [Delay 250ps] [Delay 300ps] [Delay 350ps]
Ai Clock Skew for Channel B [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 350ps] [Advance 300ps] [Advance 250ps]
[Advance 200ps] [Advance 150ps] [Advance 100ps] [Advance 50ps] [Normal] [Delay 50ps]
[Delay 100ps] [Delay 150ps] [Delay 200ps] [Delay 250ps] [Delay 300ps] [Delay 350ps]
Ai Transaction Booster [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
CPU Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to select the CPU voltage. The text color in the conguration eld
corresponds to the onboard CPU LED color, both of which indicate voltage
condition. When you set CPU LED Selection to [CPU Volt], the onboard CPU LED
displays CPU voltage condition. Refer to page 2-1 for CPU LED denition.
Conguration options: [Auto] [1.10000V] [1.10625V] [1.11250V] [1.11875V]
[1.12500V] [1.13125V] [1.13750V] [1.14375V] [1.15000V] [1.15625V] [1.16250V]
[1.16875V] [1.17500V] [1.18125V] [1.18750V] [1.19375V] [1.20000V] [1.20625V]
[1.21250V] [1.21875V] [1.22500V] [1.23125V] [1.23750V] [1.24375V] [1.25000V]
[1.25625V] [1.26250V] [1.26875V] [1.27500V] [1.28125V] [1.28750V] [1.29375V]
[1.30000V]~[1.87500V] [1.88125V] [1.88750V] [1.89375V] [1.90000V] [1.95000V]
[1.97500V] [2.00000V] [2.05000V] [2.07500V] [2.10000V]~[2.20000V] [2.22500V]
[2.25000V] [2.27500V] [2.30000V]
Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU voltage. Setting a
high voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may
make the system unstable.
CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to select the CPU PLL voltage. The text color in the conguration
eld corresponds to the onboard CPU LED color, both of which indicate voltage
condition. When you set CPU LED Selection to [PLL Volt], the onboard CPU LED
displays CPU PLL voltage condition. Refer to page 2-1 for CPU LED denition.
Conguration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.52V] [1.54V] [1.56V] [1.58V] [1.60V]~
[2.90V] [2.92V] [2.94V] [2.96V] [2.98V] [3.00V]
North Bridge Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to select the northbridge voltage. The text color in the conguration eld
indicates voltage condition. When you set the NB LED Selection item to [NB Volt],
the onboard northbridge LED displays northbridge voltage condition. Refer to page
2-2 for northbridge LED denition.
Conguration options: [Auto] [1.25V] [1.27V] [1.29V]~[1.77V] [1.79V] [1.81V]
ASUS Maximus Extreme 4-21
DRAM Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to select the DRAM voltage. The text color in the conguration eld
corresponds to the onboard memory LED color, both of which indicate voltage
condition. Refer to page 2-2 for memory LED denition.
Conguration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.52V] [1.54V] ~ [3.00V] [3.02V] [3.04V]
FSB Termination Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to select the front side bus (FSB) termination voltage. The text
color in the conguration eld indicates voltage condition. When you set the
NB LED Selection item to [FSBT Volt], the onboard northbridge LED displays
FSB termination voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for northbridge LED
denition. Conguration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V] [1.24V] [1.26V] [1.28V]
[1.30V]~[1.90V] [1.92V] [1.94V] [1.96V] [1.98V] [2.00V]
Setting a high FSB termination voltage may damage the chipset and CPU.
South Bridge Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to select the southbridge voltage. The text color in the conguration
eld indicates voltage condition. When you set the SB LED Selection item to [SB
Volt], the onboard southbridge LED displays southbridge voltage condition. Refer
to page 2-2 for southbridge LED denition.
Conguration options: [Auto] [1.050V] [1.075V] [1.110V] [1.125V] [1.150V] [1.175V]
[1.200V] [1.225V]
Loadline Calibration [Auto]
Enables or disables Loadline Calibration.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
CPU GTL Reference [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU GTL reference.
Conguration options: [Auto] [0.63x] [0.61x] [0.59x] [0.57x]
North Bridge GTL Refernece [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [0.67V] [0.63V] [0.60V] [0.57V] [0.56V] [0.53V] [0.51V]
[0.49V]
DDR3 Channel A REF Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the
safe mode.
Conguration options: [DDR3_REF-30mv] [DDR3_REF-20mv] [DDR3_REF-10mv]
[DDR3_REF] [DDR3_REF+10mv] [DDR3_REF+20mv] [DDR3_REF+30mv]
4-22 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
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