Asus Maximus II Formula User Manual
Maximus II
Formula
Motherboard
E3808
Second Edition V2
May 2008
Copyright © 2008 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
Contents ...................................................................................................... iii
Notices ....................................................................................................... viii
Safety information ...................................................................................... ix
About this guide .......................................................................................... x
Maximus II Formula specications summary ......................................... xii
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2
1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2
1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features ... 1-4
1.3.3 ROG unique features ...................................................... 1-6
1.3.4 ASUS special features .................................................... 1-7
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-4
2.2.1 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 2-4
2.2.2 SupremeFX-Fi audio card layout .................................... 2-4
2.2.3 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-5
2.2.4 Placement direction ........................................................ 2-6
2.2.5 Screw holes .................................................................... 2-6
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-7
2.3.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 2-8
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan ...............................2-11
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 2-12
2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-13
2.4.1 Overview ....................................................................... 2-13
2.4.2 Memory congurations .................................................. 2-14
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-15
2.5.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-15
2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-16
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-16
2.5.2 Conguring an expansion card ..................................... 2-16
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-17
iii
Contents
2.5.4 PCI slots ........................................................................ 2-18
2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots ..................................................... 2-18
2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots ................................................... 2-18
2.6 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 2-19
2.7 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-21
2.7.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-21
2.7.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-23
2.7.3 Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-35
2.8 Installing accessories ................................................................ 2-36
2.8.1 Installing the optional fan .............................................. 2-36
2.8.2 Installing the audio card ................................................ 2-37
2.8.3 Installing Q-shield and LCD Poster ............................... 2-38
2.9 Starting up for the rst time ...................................................... 2-39
2.10 Turning off the computer ........................................................... 2-40
2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................. 2-40
2.10.2 Using the dual function power switch ............................ 2-40
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1
3.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 3-1
3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 3-4
3.1.3 AFUDOS utility ................................................................ 3-5
3.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 3-7
3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-8
3.2.1 BIOS menu screen .......................................................... 3-9
3.2.2 Menu bar ......................................................................... 3-9
3.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................... 3-9
3.2.4 Menu items ................................................................... 3-10
3.2.5 Sub-menu items ............................................................ 3-10
3.2.6 Conguration elds ....................................................... 3-10
3.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................. 3-10
3.2.8 Scroll bar ....................................................................... 3-10
3.2.9 General help ................................................................. 3-10
3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu ............................................................. 3-11
3.3.1 Congure System Performance Settings ...................... 3-12
iv
Contents
3.4 Main menu .................................................................................. 3-20
3.4.1 System Time ................................................................. 3-20
3.4.2 System Date ................................................................. 3-20
3.4.3 Legacy Diskette A ......................................................... 3-20
3.4.4 Language ...................................................................... 3-20
3.4.5 SATA 1–6 .........................................................................................3-21
3.4.6 SATA Conguration ....................................................... 3-22
3.4.7 AHCI Conguration ....................................................... 3-23
3.4.8 System Information ....................................................... 3-24
3.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-25
3.5.1 AI NET 2........................................................................ 3-25
3.5.2 Chipset .......................................................................... 3-26
3.5.3 Onboard Devices Conguration .................................... 3-27
3.5.4 USB Conguration ........................................................ 3-29
3.5.5 PCI PnP ........................................................................ 3-30
3.5.6 LCD Poster and LED Control ........................................ 3-30
3.5.7 Other Conguration ....................................................... 3-32
3.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 3-33
3.6.1 Suspend Mode .............................................................. 3-33
3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ........................................ 3-33
3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support .......................................................... 3-33
3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 3-33
3.6.5 APM Conguration ........................................................ 3-34
3.6.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 3-35
3.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-38
3.7.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 3-38
3.7.2 Boot Settings Conguration .......................................... 3-39
3.7.3 BIOS Boot Priority ......................................................... 3-40
3.7.4 Security ......................................................................... 3-41
3.8 Tools menu ................................................................................. 3-43
3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 3-43
3.8.2 ASUS O.C. Prole ......................................................... 3-44
3.8.3 BIOS Flashback ............................................................ 3-45
3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 3-46
v
Contents
Chapter 4: Software support
4.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1
4.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 4-1
4.2.1 Running the support DVD ............................................... 4-1
4.2.2 Drivers menu ................................................................... 4-2
4.2.3 Utilities menu .................................................................. 4-3
4.2.4 Make disk menu .............................................................. 4-5
4.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 4-6
4.2.6 Video menu ..................................................................... 4-6
4.2.7 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 4-7
4.2.8 Other information ............................................................ 4-7
4.3 Software information ................................................................... 4-9
4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™ ........................................................... 4-9
4.3.2 AI NET 2.........................................................................4-11
4.3.3 Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility ..................................... 4-12
4.3.4 ASUS PC Probe II ......................................................... 4-16
4.3.5 ASUS EPU-Six Engine ................................................. 4-22
4.3.6 ASUS AI Suite ............................................................... 4-26
4.3.7 ASUS AI Nap ................................................................ 4-28
4.3.8 ASUS Fan Xpert ........................................................... 4-29
4.3.9 ASUS AI Booster ........................................................... 4-31
4.3.10 CPU Level Up ............................................................... 4-32
4.3.11 ROG Speeding HDD ..................................................... 4-33
4.4 RAID congurations .................................................................. 4-40
4.4.1 RAID denitions ............................................................ 4-40
4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks ..................................... 4-41
4.4.3 Intel® RAID congurations ............................................. 4-41
4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 4-49
4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .... 4-49
4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®...................... 4-49
Appendix: CPU features
A.1 Intel® EM64T ..................................................................................A-1
A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST) ........................A-1
A.2.1 System requirements ......................................................A-1
A.2.2 Using the EIST ................................................................A-2
vi
Contents
A.3 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology ...........................................A-3
Using the Hyper-Threading Technology ........................................ A-3
A.4 Debug code table .........................................................................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
and 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: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
• Chapter 4: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
• 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 /iFormula.ROM
xi
Maximus II Formula specications summary
CPU LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad
Chipset Intel® P45 / ICH10R with Intel® Fast Memory Access
System Bus 1600/1333/1066/800 MHz
Memory Dual-channel memory architecture
Expansion Slots 2 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slots (single max. @ x16 speed;
CrossFire™ Technology Supports ATI CrossFire™ graphics cards
Storage Intel® ICH10R Southbridge:Southbridge:
LAN Dual Gigabit LAN controllers, both featuring AI NET 2
High Denition Audio SupremeFX X-Fi Audio Card
/ Core™2 Duo / Pentium® dual-core / Celeron® dual core / Celeron® processors
Intel® EM64T / EIST / Hyper-Threading Technology
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list
Technology
- 4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support unbuffered
non-ECC DDR2 1200/1066/800/667MHz memory
modules
- Supports up to 16 GB system memory
*Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the
Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists).
**When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more,
Windows® 32-bit operation system may only recognizemay only recognize
less than 3GB. Hence, a total installed memory of less
than 3 GB is recommended.
dual @ x8 speed)
3 x PCIe x1 (PCIEX1_1 (black) is compatible with the
audio slot.)audio slot.)
2 x PCI 2.2 slots
- 6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports
- IntelIntel® Matrix Storage Technology supports RAID 0,
1, 5, and 10
Marvell® 88SE6121 controller:
- 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 for up to 2 PATA devices
- 1 x External SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (SATA On-the-Go)
Silicon Image SIL5723 controller:
- 2 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports
Supports Teaming Technology
- ADI 2000B 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC
- Creative X-Fi capability
- X-Fi interface
- Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF Out ports
(continued on the next page)
xii
Maximus II Formula specications summary
IEEE 1394 2 x IEEE 1394a ports (one onboard; one at rear panel)
USB 12 x USB 2.0 ports (6 ports onboard; 6 ports at rear
ROG Exclusive
Overclocking features
ROG Special Features Speeding HDD
Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port
panel)
Extreme Engine
- 16-phase power design for CPU
- 3-phase power design for Northbridge
- 2-phase power design for Memory
iROG
Extreme Tweaker
Loadline Calibration
Intelligent overclocking tools:
- CPU Level Up
- 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)
Pin-Fin Thermal Module
BIOS Flashback
LCD Poster
Onboard Switches: Power / Reset / Clr CMOS (at rear
panel)
ASUS EPU—Six Engine
ASUS Fan Xpert
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS MyLogo 3™
1 x eSATA port
1 x IEEE1394a port
2 x LAN (RJ45) ports
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
1 x Clr CMOS switch
(continued on the next page)
xiii
Maximus II Formula specications summary
Internal I/O Connectors 3 x USB connectors support additional 6 USB ports
BIOS Features 16 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0,
Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, Chassis Intrusion, PXE
Accessories SupremeFX X-Fi Audio Card
Software Support DVD:
Form Factor ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5 cm x 24.5 cm)
1 x Floppy disk drive connector
1 x IDE connector for two devices
6 x SATA connectors (Blue)
2 x Speeding HDD connectors (Black)
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 Chassis Intrusion connector
1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS
1 x LCD Poster connector
1 x ROG connector
1 x System panel connector
1 x Power-on switch
1 x Reset switch
24-pin ATX Power connector
8-pin ATX 12V Power connector
SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 2.0a Multi-Language BIOSSM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 2.0a Multi-Language BIOS
LCD Poster
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 + IEEE 1394a module
Q-Shield
Cable ties
User's manual
Drivers and applications
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.
Chapter 1: Product
1
introduction
Chapter summary
1
1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2
ASUS Maximus II Formula
1.1 Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® Maximus II Formula motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the
items in your package with the list below.
1.2 Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Motherboard ASUS Maximus II Formula
I/O module USB 2.0 + IEEE 1394a module
Cables Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable
Floppy disk drive cable
Serial ATA cables
Serial ATA power cables
Accessories SupremeFX X-Fi Audio CardSupremeFX X-Fi Audio Card
LCD Poster
ASUS Optional Fan
3-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit
Q-Shield
Cable ties
Application DVD ASUS motherboard support DVD
Documentation User guide
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
ASUS Maximus II Formula 1-1
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
Republic of Gamers
The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We offer the best
hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we
welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are
only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything. We believe in making
statements and we excel in competitions. If your character matches our trait, then
join the elite club, make your presence felt, in the Republic of Gamers.
Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo
CPU support
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme / Core™ 2 Quad /
Core™ 2 Duo processors in the LGA775 package. It is excellent for multi-tasking,
multi-media and enthusiastic gamers with 1600/1333/1066/800 MHz FSB. The
Intel® Core™ 2 series processor is one of the most powerful CPUs in the world.
This motherboard also supports Intel® CPUs in the new 45nm manufacturing
process. See page 2-7 for details.
Intel P45 Chipset
The Intel® P45 Express Chipset is the latest chipset designed to support dualchannel DDR2 1200/1066/800/667 architecture, 1600/1333/1066/800 FSB
(Front Side Bus), PCIe 2.0, and multi-core CPUs. It especially includes Intel®
Fast Memory Access technology that signicantly optimizes the use of available
memory bandwidth and reduces the latency of the memory accesses.
Dual-channel DDR2 memory support
To attain top performance, ASUS engineers have successfully unleashed the
true potential of DDR2 memory. While in DDR2 1200 mode, ASUS’s exclusive
technology offers a choice of FSB 1600, providing great performance for 3D
graphics and other memory demanding applications.
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 page 2-18 for details.
1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
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 pages 2-22, 2-25, and 2-26 for details.
Dual Gigabit LAN
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 2-21 for details.
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 2-21 and 2-27 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 headphones while playing
multi-channel network games. See pages 2-21 for details.
ASUS Maximus II Formula 1-3
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.
1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features
Speeding HDD
Without drivers or BIOS setups, the ROG exclusive Speeding HDD is ideal for
anyone who needs to secure data on their hard drives or enhance hard drive
performances without the hassles of complicated congurations. With Speeding
HDD’s friendly graphical user interface, users can easily arrange hard drive
backups or enhance their hard drive transfer rates, making sure that data is looked
after every moment, every day. See pages 2-26, 3-28, and 4-33 for details.
Pin-Fin Thermal Module
Compared with traditional stacked-n heatpipe solution, the new-generation pin-n
thermal design results in better thermal performance, which enlarges the “heatexchange” surface area and breaks the “boundary-layer” phenomenon for effective
airow. The Pin-Fin Thermal Module is the most efcient thermal system on the
motherboard.
CPU Level Up
Ever wish that you could have a more expansive CPU? Upgrade your CPU at no
additional cost with ROG’s CPU Level Up! Simply choose a processor you want to
OC to, and the motherboard will do the rest for you. See the new CPU speed and
enjoy the performance instantly! Overclocking is never as easy as this. See pages
3-12 and 4-32 for details.
Extreme Engine
Extreme Engine is the power design for OC-critical components which includes
CPU, northbridge and memory. Extreme Engine offers 16-phase for CPU, 2-phase
for memory and special multi-phase design for northbridge to achieve high-voltage
options. Extreme Engine only adopts the best quality components to stress for
operating gaming stability and extreme OC potential for enthusiasts.
1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
BIOS Flashback
BIOS1
BIOS2
Two sets of BIOS Flash ROM are present on the motherboard. You may choose
either BIOS as the one to boot, or back up or restore BIOS content from one
ROM to the other. When you are unhappy with the current BIOS, or if the current
BIOS fails, you can ash back to an earlier stored version. More than OC Prole
with saved parameters, BIOS Flashback allows you to save the entire BIOS in a
separated ROM. See pages 2-20 and 3-45 for details.
Extreme Tweaker
Extreme Tweaker is the one stop shop to ne-tune your system to optimal
performance. No matter if you are looking for frequency adjustment, over-voltage
options, or memory timing settings, they are all here! See page 3-12 for details.
Loadline Calibration
Maintaining ample voltage support for the CPU is critical during overclocking.
The Loadline calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage under heavy
loading. It helps overclockers enjoy the motherboard’s ultimate OC capabilities and
benchmark scores.
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
and 2-2 for details.
iROG
The iROG is a special IC which enables several ROG highlighted functions
that give you full disposal of the motherboard at any stage! This design allows
advanced user control and management to be processed at a hardware level.
iROG greatly increases fun during overclocking for PC enthusiasts and it provides
system maintenance and management with more control and efciency.
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.
ASUS Maximus II Formula 1-5
AI Booster
The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows
environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. See page 4-31 for details.
®
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
When the system hangs due to overclocking failure, there is no need to open the
system chassis to clear CMOS data. Simply reboot the system, and the BIOS
automatically restores the CPU default settings for each parameter.
Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required before using C.P.R.
function.
1.3.3 ROG unique features
Supreme FX X-Fi features
You may enjoy good quality sound from the thoughtful design of SupremeFX card
on a hardware level. Activating X-Fi CMSS3D and Crystalizer will enable accurate
virtual 3D surround sound and enhancement on sound quality experience. You will
be able to experience realistic dynamic sound effects with games. See pages 2-30See pages 2-30
and 4-12 for details.
External LCD Poster
The new LCD Poster now posts critical POST information in an ever friendly
and exible external display. When system malfunction occurs, the LCD Poster
automatically detects device failure and translates the errors on the LCD during
POST. Unlike other competing 2 digit displays, users do not need to read
“gibberish” to nd out what is wrong. See page 2-38 for details.
Onboard Switches
With an easy press during overclocking, this exclusive onboard switch allows
gamers to effortlessly ne-tune the performance without having to short the pins or
moving jumpers. See page 2-35 for details.
1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.3.4 ASUS special features
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the
overclocking capability.
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.
Fan Xpert
ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows users to adjust both the CPU and chassis
fan speed according to different ambient temperature, which is caused
by different climate conditions in different geographic regions and system
loading. Built-in variety of useful proles offer exible controls of fan speed to
achieve a quiet and cool environment. See page 4-29 for details.
ASUS Power Saving Solution
ASUS Power Saving solution intelligently and automatically provides balanced
computing power and energy consumption.
ASUS EPU-6 Engine
The new ASUS EPU, the world’s rst power saving engine, has been
upgraded to a new 6-engine version, which provides total system power
savings by detecting current PC loadings and intelligently moderating power
in real-time. With auto phase switching for components (which includes
the CPU, VGA card, memory, chipset, drives and system fan), the EPU
automatically provides the most appropriate power usage via intelligent
acceleration and overclocking, helping save power and money. See page
4-22 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 4-28 for
details.
ASUS Maximus II Formula 1-7
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 2-36 for details.
ASUS MyLogo 3
ASUS MyLogo 3 is a new feature present in the motherboard that allows you to
personalize and add style to your system with customizable and animated boot
logos. See page 3-39 for details.
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
The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front
panel cables in one easy step with one complete module. This unique
adapter eliminates the trouble of plugging in one cable at a time, making
connection quick and accurate. See pages 2-34 for details.
ASUS Q-Shield
The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual “ngers”—
making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity,
it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it
against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI). See page 2-38 for details.
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 3-44 for details.
ASUS EZ Flash 2
EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply launch this tool and
update BIOS using a USB ash disk without entering the OS. You can update
your BIOS in a few clicks without preparing an additional oppy diskette or
using an OS-based ash utility. See pages 3-4 and 3-43 for details.
1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
This chapter lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It
includes description of the jumpers and
connectors on the motherboard.
Chapter 2: Hardware
2
information
Chapter summary
2
2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-4
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-7
2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-13
2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-16
2.6 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 2-19
2.7 ConnectorsConnectors ................................................................................ 2-21
2.8 Installing accessories ................................................................ 2-36
2.9 Starting up for the rst time ...................................................... 2-39
2.10 Turning off the computer ........................................................... 2-40
ASUS Maximus II Formula
2.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components
or change any motherboard settings.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.
• 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, ensurethat 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, and southbridge. 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 about voltage adjustment, refer to 3.3 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.
Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red)
CPU Voltage
CPU PLL Voltage
ASUS Maximus II Formula 2-1
0.85000–1.50000 1.50625–1.69375 1.70000–
1.50000–1.61925 1.63250–1.81800 1.83125–
2. Memory LED
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
1.80000–1.99875 2.01200–2.60825 2.62150–
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 1.1V Voltage or the Sputh Bridge 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 1.1 Voltage
South Bridge 1.5 Voltage
2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information
1.10000–1.59025 1.60350–1.84200 1.85525–
1.10000–1.40475 1.41800–1.60350 1.61675–
1.10000–1.59025 1.60350–1.84200 1.85525–
1.50000–1.60600 1.61925–1.80475 1.81800–
4. Hard Disk LED
The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity. It blinks when
data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not
light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or
when the hard disk drive does not function.
5. Power LED
The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that lights up to indicate
that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder
that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below
shows the location of the onboard power-on switch.
When you turn on the ATX power supply, the
to indicate that the system is ready to boot. Wait till the ash stops before you
press the power-on switch.
ASUS Maximus II Formula 2-3
Power LED
ashes three times
2.2 Motherboard overview
SUPREMEFX
Listen with Absolutely HD
X
-
Fi
2.2.1 Motherboard layout
2.2.2 SupremeFX-Fi audio card layout
Refer to pages 2-21 and 2-30 for details
about the audio jacks and connectors
on this card.
2-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information
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