Asus Maximus III Extreme User Manual

Maximus III Extreme

Motherboard

E5279

First Edition January 2010

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, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification 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 identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.

Contents

Notices ....................................................................................................... viii

Safety information ..................................................................................... xii

About this guide ....................................................................................... xiv

Maximus III Extreme specications summary ....................................... xvi

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 ... 1-3

1.3.3 ROG unique features ...................................................... 1-6

1.3.4 ASUS special features .................................................... 1-6

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-6

2.2.1 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 2-6

2.2.2 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-7

2.2.3 Placement direction ........................................................ 2-8

2.2.4 Screw holes .................................................................... 2-8

2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9

2.3.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 2-9

2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan .............................. 2-12

2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 2-13

2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-14

2.4.1 Overview ....................................................................... 2-14

2.4.2 Memory configurations .................................................. 2-15

2.4.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-22

2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-22

2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-23

2.5.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-23

2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card ..................................... 2-23

2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-24

2.5.4 PCI slot ......................................................................... 2-25

2.5.5 PCI Express x16 slots ................................................... 2-25

2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-27

iii

Contents

2.7 RC Bluetooth card ...................................................................... 2-29

2.8 I/O shield Installation ................................................................. 2-30

2.9 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-31

2.9.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-31

2.9.2 ROG Connect switch and RC Bluetooth switch ............ 2-32

2.9.3 Audio I/O connections ................................................... 2-34

2.9.4 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-37

2.9.5 Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-47

2.9.6 ProbeIt .......................................................................... 2-50

2.10 Starting up for the rst time ...................................................... 2-51

2.11 Turning off the computer ........................................................... 2-52

2.11.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................. 2-52

2.11.2 Using the dual function power switch ............................ 2-52

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 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 3-5

3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-6

3.2.1 BIOS menu screen .......................................................... 3-7

3.2.2 Menu bar ......................................................................... 3-7

3.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................... 3-7

3.2.4 Menu items ..................................................................... 3-8

3.2.5 Submenu items ............................................................... 3-8

3.2.6 Configuration fields ......................................................... 3-8

3.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................... 3-8

3.2.8 Scroll bar ......................................................................... 3-8

3.2.9 General help ................................................................... 3-8

3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu ............................................................... 3-9

3.3.1 CPU Level Up [Auto] ..................................................... 3-10

3.3.2 Memory Level Up [Auto] ............................................... 3-10

3.3.3 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto] ............................................. 3-10

3.3.4 eXtreme Memory Profile [Disabled] .............................. 3-10

3.3.5 OC From CPU/Memory Level Up [Auto] ....................... 3-10

3.3.6 CPU Ratio Setting [Auto] ...............................................3-11

3.3.7 Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech [Enabled] ........................3-11

Contents

3.3.8 BCLK Frequency [XXX] .................................................3-11

3.3.9 DRAM Frequency [Auto] ................................................3-11

3.3.10 QPI Frequency [Auto] ....................................................3-11

3.3.11 Start auto tuning .............................................................3-11

3.3.12 OC Tuner [Good Performance] ......................................3-11

3.3.13 DRAM Timing Control ................................................... 3-12

3.3.14 CPU Clock Amplitude [Auto] ......................................... 3-13

3.3.15 PCH Clock Amplitude [Auto] ......................................... 3-13

3.3.16 CPU Clock Skew [Auto] ................................................ 3-13

3.3.17 PCH Clock Skew [Auto] ................................................ 3-13

3.3.18 Extreme OV [Disabled] ................................................. 3-13

3.3.19 CPU Vltage OCP [Enabled] .......................................... 3-14

3.3.20 PWM VGD [Auto] .......................................................... 3-14

3.3.22 CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] ................................. 3-14

3.3.23 CPU Voltage Mode [VID] ............................................. 3-14

3.3.24 CPU Voltage [Auto] ...................................................... 3-14

3.3.25 CPU PLL Voltage [Auto] ................................................ 3-14

3.3.26 IMC Voltage [Auto] ....................................................... 3-14

3.3.27 PCH Voltage [Auto] ....................................................... 3-14

3.3.28 DRAM Voltage [Auto] .................................................... 3-15

3.3.29 DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/B [Auto] ................. 3-15

3.3.30 DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA/B [Auto] ................. 3-15

3.3.31 CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] ....................................... 3-15

3.3.32 PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] ...................................... 3-15

3.3.33 ASUS O.C. Profile ......................................................... 3-15

3.4 Main menu .................................................................................. 3-16

3.4.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx] ................................................. 3-16

3.4.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] ....................................... 3-16

3.4.3 Language [English] ....................................................... 3-16

3.4.4 SATA 1–6 .........................................................................................3-17

3.4.5 Storage Configuration ................................................... 3-19

3.4.6 AHCI Configuration ....................................................... 3-20

3.4.7 System Information ....................................................... 3-20

3.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-21

3.5.1 CPU Configuration ........................................................ 3-21

3.5.2 Chipset .......................................................................... 3-24

Contents

3.5.3 Onboard Device Configuration ...................................... 3-25

3.5.4 USB Configuration ........................................................ 3-27

3.5.5 LED Control .................................................................. 3-28

3.5.6 iROG Configuration ....................................................... 3-29

3.5.7 ROG Connect ............................................................... 3-29

3.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 3-30

3.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] ................................................... 3-30

3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [No] ................................ 3-30

3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled] ......................................... 3-30

3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] ....................................... 3-31

3.6.5 EuP Ready [Disabled] ................................................... 3-31

3.6.6 APM Configuration ........................................................ 3-31

3.6.7 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 3-33

3.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-36

3.7.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 3-36

3.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration .......................................... 3-37

3.7.3 Security ......................................................................... 3-38

3.8 Tools menu ................................................................................. 3-40

3.8.1 ASUS O.C. Profile ......................................................... 3-40

3.6.2 GO_Button File ............................................................. 3-42

3.6.3 AI NET 2........................................................................ 3-42

3.6.4 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 3-43

3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 3-44

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 .............................................................. 4-4

4.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 4-4

4.2.6 Video menu ..................................................................... 4-5

4.2.7 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 4-5

4.2.8 Other information ............................................................ 4-6

4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals ..................................... 4-8

4.3 Software information ................................................................... 4-9

Contents

4.3.1 VIA® High Definition Audio utility ..................................... 4-9

4.3.2 ASUS PC Probe II ..........................................................4-11

4.3.3 ASUS AI Suite ............................................................... 4-17

4.3.4 ASUS Fan Xpert ........................................................... 4-19

4.3.5 CPU Level Up ............................................................... 4-20

4.3.6 TurboV EVO .................................................................. 4-21

4.3.7 ROG Connect ............................................................... 4-22

4.4 RAID congurations .................................................................. 4-24

4.4.1 RAID definitions ............................................................ 4-24

4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks ..................................... 4-25

4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ...................................... 4-25

4.4.4 Intel® Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility ......... 4-25

4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 4-29

4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .... 4-29

4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®...................... 4-29

4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver

during Windows® OS installation ................................... 4-30

4.5.4 Using a USB floppy disk drive ....................................... 4-30

Chapter 5: ATI® CrossFireX™ technology support

5.1 ATI® CrossFireX™ technology .................................................... 5-1

5.1.1 Requirements .................................................................. 5-1

5.1.2 Before you begin ............................................................. 5-1

5.1.3 Installing CrossFireX graphics cards .............................. 5-2

5.1.4 Installing the device drivers ............................................. 5-3

5.1.5 Enabling the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology ................... 5-3

5.2 NVIDIA® SLI™ technology ........................................................... 5-5

5.2.1 Requirements .................................................................. 5-5

5.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards .......................... 5-5

5.2.3 Installing the device drivers ............................................. 5-6

5.2.4 Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology ......................... 5-6

Appendix: Reference information

A.1 Debug code table .........................................................................A-1

A.2 Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) for BIOS FlashBack ..................A-4

A.3 Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) for RC Bluetooth .......................A-4

A.4 Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) for

500W Power Supply or above ....................................................A-5

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 modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

FCC Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Caution Statement

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. “The manufacture declares that this device is limited to Channels 1 through 11 in the

2.4GHz frequency by specified firmware controlled in the USA.”

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure compliance requirements, please avoid direct contact to the transmitting antenna during transmitting. End users must follow the specific operating instructions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.

viii

RF exposure warning

This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with provided instructions and the antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. End-users and installers must be provide with antenna installation instructions and transmitter operating conditions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.

Declaration of Conformity (R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC)

The following items were completed and are considered relevant and sufficient:

• Essential requirements as in [Article 3]

• Protection requirements for health and safety as in [Article 3.1a]

• Testing for electric safety according to [EN 60950]

• Protection requirements for electromagnetic compatibility in [Article 3.1b]

• Testing for electromagnetic compatibility in [EN 301 489-1] & [EN 301 489-17]

• Effective use of the radio spectrum as in [Article 3.2]

• Radio test suites according to [EN 300 328-2]

CE Marking

CE marking for devices without wireless LAN/Bluetooth

The shipped version of this device complies with the requirements of the EEC directives 2004/108/EC “Electromagnetic compatibility” and 2006/95/EC “Low voltage directive”.

CE marking for devices with wireless LAN/ Bluetooth

This equipment complies with the requirements of Directive 1999/5/EC of the European Parliament and Commission from 9 March, 1999 governing Radio and Telecommunications Equipment and mutual recognition of conformity.

Wireless Operation Channel for Different Domains

N. America 2.412-2.462 GHz Ch01 through CH11

Japan 2.412-2.484 GHz Ch01 through Ch14

Europe ETSI 2.412-2.472 GHz Ch01 through Ch13

France Restricted Wireless Frequency Bands

Some areas of France have a restricted frequency band. The worst case maximum authorized power indoors are:

• 10mW for the entire 2.4 GHz band (2400 MHz–2483.5 MHz)

• 100mW for frequencies between 2446.5 MHz and 2483.5 MHz

Channels 10 through 13 inclusive operate in the band 2446.6 MHz to 2483.5 MHz.

There are few possibilities for outdoor use: On private property or on the private property of public persons, use is subject to a preliminary authorization procedure by the Ministry of Defense, with maximum authorized power of 100mW in the

2446.5–2483.5 MHz band. Use outdoors on public property is not permitted.

In the departments listed below, for the entire 2.4 GHz band:

• Maximum authorized power indoors is 100mW

• Maximum authorized power outdoors is 10mW

Departments in which the use of the 2400–2483.5 MHz band is permitted with an EIRP of less than 100mW indoors and less than 10mW outdoors:

01 Ain 02 Aisne 03 Allier 05 Hautes Alpes

08 Ardennes 09 Ariège 11 Aude 12 Aveyron 16 Charente 24 Dordogne 25 Doubs 26 Drôme 32 Gers 36 Indre 37 Indre et Loire 41 Loir et Cher 45 Loiret 50 Manche 55 Meuse 58 Nièvre 59 Nord 60 Oise 61 Orne 63 Puy du Dôme 64 Pyrénées Atlantique 66 Pyrénées Orientales 67 Bas Rhin 68 Haut Rhin 70 Haute Saône 71 Saône et Loire 75 Paris 82 Tarn et Garonne 84 Vaucluse 88 Vosges 89 Yonne 90 Territoire de Belfort 94 Val de Marne

This requirement is likely to change over time, allowing you to use your wireless LAN card in more areas within France. Please check with ART for the latest information (www.art-telecom.fr)

Your WLAN Card transmits less than 100mW, but more than 10mW.

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.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe [B] est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

IC Radiation Exposure Statement for Canada

This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. To maintain compliance with IC RF exposure compliance requirements, please avoid direct contact to the transmitting antenna during transmitting. End users must follow the specific operating instructions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• This device may not cause interference and

• This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

To prevent radio interference to the licensed service (i.e. co-channel Mobile Satellite systems) this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from windows to provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to licensing.

The user is cautioned that this device should be used only as specified within this manual to meet RF exposure requirements. Use of this device in a manner inconsistent with this manual could lead to excessive RF exposure conditions.

This device and its antenna(s) must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Country Code selection feature to be disabled for products marketed to the US/ CANADA.

Safety information

Electrical safety

• To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.

• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged.

• Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.

• Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company.

• If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

• The optical S/PDIF is an optional component (may or may not be included in your motherboard) and is defined as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT.

INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION, AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.

• Never dispose of the battery in fire. It could explode and release harmful substances into the environment.

• Never dispose of the battery with your regular household waste. Take it to a hazardous material collection point.

• Never replace the battery with an incorrect battery type.

• RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE.

• DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE ABOVE BATTERY-RELATED INSTRUCTIONS.

xii

Operation safety

• Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package.

• Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.

• To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.

• Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may become wet.

This motherboard should only be used in environments with ambient temperatures between 5ºC (41ºF) and 40ºC (104ºF).

• Place the product on a stable surface.

• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.

DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal waste.

xiii

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring 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.

• Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support

This chapter describes how to install and configure multiple ATI® CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.

• Appendix: Reference information

This appendix includes additional information that you may refer to when configuring the motherboard.

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 flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

xiv

Conventions used in this guide

To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself

when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components

when trying to complete a task.

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a

task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a

task.

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

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 /iM3E.ROM

Maximus III Extreme specications summary

CPU Supports the Intel® Core™i7, Intel® Core™i5 and

Chipset Intel® P55 Express Chipset

Memory Dual channel memory architecture

Expansion Slots 5 x PCIe x16 slots

Multi-GPU Technology Supports NVIDIA® SLI™ Technology / ATI® CrossFireX™

Storage Intel® P55 Express Chipset built-in:

LAN Realtek® RTL8112L Gigabit LAN controller

High Denition Audio VIA® VT2020 10-channel High Definition Audio CODEC

IEEE 1394a 2 x 1394a ports (1 port onboard, 1 port at back I/O)

Intel® Core™i3 Processor in the LGA1156 package Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology * Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list

4 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR3 2200(O.C.) /2133(O.C.) /2000(O.C.) /1800(O.C.) /1600/1333/1066 MHz, non-/2000(O.C.) /1800(O.C.) /1600/1333/1066 MHz, non ECC, un-buffered memory modulesECC, un-buffered memory modules * Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs.characteristics of individual CPUs. * Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) * Please refer to www.asus.com or user manual for the Memory QVL(Qualified Vendors List).Memory QVL(Qualified Vendors List).

- Supports single at x16; dual at x16; triple at x 16- Supports single at x16; dual at x16; triple at x 16 Supports single at x16; dual at x16; triple at x 16Supports single at x16; dual at x16; triple at x 16 x16 and x8; quad at x8, or 5 at x8x16 and x8; quad at x8, or 5 at x8

1 x PCI 2.2

TechnologyTechnology

- 6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports- 6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports 6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports

- Intel Matrix Storage Technology supports RAID 0, 1,- Intel Matrix Storage Technology supports RAID 0, 1, Intel Matrix Storage Technology supports RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10

JMicron® 363 controllers:

- 1 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (Red)- 1 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (Red) 1 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (Red)

- 1 x External SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (SATA On-the-Go)- 1 x External SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (SATA On-the-Go) 1 x External SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (SATA On-the-Go)

Marvell® PCIe SATA 6Gb/s controller

- 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports- 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports

- Supports Blu-ray audio layer content protection- Supports Blu-ray audio layer content protection Supports Blu-ray audio layer content protection

- Supports 1 Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O- Supports 1 Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O Supports 1 Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O

- Supports 1 x S/PDIF out header- Supports 1 x S/PDIF out header Supports 1 x S/PDIF out header

- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming, Front- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming, Front Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-Retasking

xvi

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Maximus III Extreme specications summary

USB NEC® USB 3.0 controller

Bluetooth Module Accessory Card

ROG Exclusive Overclocking Features

Other Special Features CPU Level Up

BIOS Features 16Mb AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.5,

Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE

- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (at back I/O) Intel® P55 Express Chipset

- 11 USB 2.0 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 7 ports at back I/O)

Bluetooth V2.0/V2.1+EDR RC Bluetooth On/Off Switch

ROG Connect RC Bluetooth Extreme Engine Power Design with digital VRM

- 8-phase CPU digital VRM power8-phase CPU digital VRM power

- 3-phase VTT digital VRM power3-phase VTT digital VRM power

- 3-phase Memory power3-phase Memory power

- ML Cap on CPUML Cap on CPU ProbeIt iROG Extreme Tweaker BIOS Flashback Loadline Calibration Intelligent overclocking tools:

- ASUS AI Booster UtilityASUS AI Booster Utility

- O.C. ProfileO.C. Profile Overclocking Protection:

- COP EX (Component Overheat Protection - EX)COP EX (Component Overheat Protection - EX)

- Voltiminder LEDVoltiminder LED

- ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)

MemOK! Onboard Button: Power / Reset / Clr CMOS (at back IO) ASUS MyLogo3 ASUS Fan Xpert ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ASUS Q-Connector ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED) ASUS Q-Slot ASUS Q-DIMM

ACPI2.0a Multi-Language BIOS

(continued on the next page)

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Maximus III Extreme specications summary

Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port (purple)

Internal I/O Connectors 2 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0

Software Support DVD:

Form Factor ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5cm x 24.4cm)

2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports 7 x USB 2.0 ports (1 port also for ROG Connect) 1 x External SATA port 1 x LAN (RJ45) port 1 x Clr CMOS switch 1 x ROG Connect On/Off switch 1 x S/PDIF Out (Optical) 1 x IEEE1394a port 10-channel Audio I/O

portsports 9 x SATA connectors: 2 x SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (Red) / 6 x standard SATA connectors (Black) / 1 x SATA_E(Red) 8 x Fan connectors: 1 x CPU / 1 x PWR / 3 x Chassis / 3 x Optional 5 x ProbeIt Measurement Points 3 x Thermal Sensor Connectors 1 x IEEE1394a Connector 1 x SPDIF_Out Connector 1 x 24-pin ATX Power Connector 1 x 8-pin ATX 12V Power Connector 1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS Switch 1 x LN2 Mode Header 1 x Power on Switch 1 x Reset Switch 2 x EZ Plug Connectors 1 x OC Station Header 1 x RC Bluetooth Header 1 x Go Button 1 x BIOS Button 1 x System Panel Connector

- Drivers and Applications Futuremark® 3DMark® Vantage Advanced Edition Kaspersky® Anti-Virus ASUS TurboV EVO Utility ASUS PC Probe II ASUS Update ASUS AI Suite

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

xviii

This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.

Chapter 1: Product

introduction

Chapter summary

1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2

ROG Maximus III Extreme

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ROG Maximus III 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 ROG Maximus III Extreme

Cables 1 x ROG Connect Cable 1 x ROG Connect Cable 1 x SLI Cable 1 x 3 Way SLI Cable 1 x 2-in-1 SATA 6.0Gb/s Cables 3 x 2-in-1 SATA 3.0Gb/s Signal Cables 1 x 2-port USB2.0 + ESATA Module

Accessories 1 x RC Bluetooth Card 1 x RC Bluetooth Card 1 x I/O Shield 1 x Optional Fan 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit 1 x Thermal Sensor Cables Pack 1 x Cable Ties Pack 1 x ROG Theme Label 1 x 12-in-1 ROG Cable Label

Application DVD ROG motherboard support DVD

Documentation User guide

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

• The item illustrations in above table are for reference only. Actual product specifications may vary with different models.

ROG Maximus III Extreme

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.

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.

Intel® LGA1156 Lynneld Processor Ready

This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Lynnfield processors in LGA1156 package, which as memory and PCI Express controller integrated to support 2channel (4 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 16 PCI Express 2.0 lanes, providing great graphics performance. Intel® Lynnfield processor is one of the most powerful and energy efficient CPU in the world.

Intel® P55 Chipset

The Intel® P55 Express Chipset is the latest one-chipset design to support the latest 1156 socket Intel® Lynnfield processors. Intel® P55 provides improved performance by utilizing serial point-to-point links, allowing increased bandwidth and stability.

SLI/CrossFireX On-Demand

Why choose when you can have both?

SLI or CrossFireX? Fret no longer because with the ROG Maximus III Extreme, you'll be able to run both multi-GPU setups. The board features SLI/CrossFireX on Demand technology, supporting SLI or CrossFireX configuration. Whichever path you take, you can be assured of jaw-dropping graphics at a level previously unseen.

1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Dual-Channel, DDR3 2200(O.C.) MHz

The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 2200(O.C.)/2133(O.C.)/2000(O.C.)/1800(O.C.)/1600(O.C.)/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest operation system, 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture double the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance.

PCIe 2.0

Double Speed; Double Bandwidth

This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 devices for double speed and bandwidth which enhances system performance.

1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features

RC Bluetooth

Overwhelm your acknowledgement with wireless overclocking experience

Still overclocking in old-fashioned way? Let RC Bluetooth bring you the whole new idea of how to do! Just simply push the button from the Back IO on the RC Bluetooth card, overclockers can real-time monitor the desktop PC system status & tweak its parameters - such as voltages and frequency on the fly. When users want to use oridinary bluetooth functions, just simply push the button once again & enjoy all the wireless convenience brought from RC Bluetooth. Refer to page 2-33 for details.

ROG Connect

Plug and Overclock - Tweak it the hardcore way!

Monitor the status of your desktop PC and tweak its parameters in real-time via a notebook—just like a race car engineer—with ROG Connect. ROG Connect links your main system to a notebook through a USB cable, allowing you to view realtime POST code and hardware status readouts on your notebook, as well as make on-the-fly parameter adjustments at a purely hardware level. Diagram, power, reset button, flash BIOS through notebook. Refer to page 2-32 for details.

ROG Maximus III Extreme

1-3

USB BIOS FlashBack

No worry of BIOS crash anytime!

USB BIOS Flashback must be the most convenient way to flash BIOS ever! It allows overclockers to try their BIOS with the simplist way one can imagine. No need to enter the BIOS or the operating system, just plug the thumb drive into the ROG Connect port & push the ROG Connect button for 2 seconds, BIOS would be automatically flashed under standby power. It's no doubt that USB BIOS Flashback gives overclockers the ultimate convenience! Refer to page 2-32 for details.

Extreme Engine Digi+

Say hello to the next generation design

Extreme Engine—a next-generation dynamic multi-phase power management system equipped with high performance digital Voltage Regulator Mudule (VRM) design. Through digital power management, the board can easily achieve the ultimate performance with adjustable CPU PWM frequency. Super Conductor FETs expedite heat dissipation & achieve better electric conduction. ML Cap ensures a stable power supply during overvoltage by lowering Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR), keeping critical components reliable. This means you’ll be able to push your spanking new Intel CPU to the limit, hitting benchmark scores that others only dream of. Extreme Engine balances the need for voltage and the desire for rock solid performance to bring the ultimate user experience.

MemOK!

Any memory is A-OK!

Memory compatibility is among the top concerns when it comes to computer upgrades. Worry no more, MemOK! is the fastest memory booting solution today. This remarkable memory rescue tool requires nothing but a push of a button to patch memory issues and get your system up and running in no time. The technology is able to determine failsafe settings that can dramatically improve system booting success.

iROG

Intelligent multiple control at hand

The iROG is a special IC which enables several ROG highlitghted functions that gives users full disposal of the motherboard at any stage! This design allows advanced user control and management to be processed purely at a hardware level. iROG greatly increases fun during overclocking for PC enthusiasts and it offers system maintainence and management with more control and efficiency.

1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

ProbeIt

Get all hands-on with hardware-based overclocking

ProbeIt takes the guesswork out of locating the motherboard’s measurement points, identifying them clearly in the form of 5 sets of detection points so you’ll know exactly where to get quick yet accurate readings using a multitester.

BIOS FlashBack

Two BIOS ROM. Two BIOS settings. Twice the overclocking exibility.

Overclocker's prayer to have BIOS flexibility is answered! With the new BIOS Flashback, PC enthusiasts can overclock with even more confidence. BIOS Flashback gives overclockers the ability to save two versions of the BIOS simultaneously. Very much like the "SaveGame" function, one BIOS can be used for the overclocking adventure, while the other BIOS is to be stored with any previous version. BIOS Flashback brings the ultimate convenience to overclockers! By pushing BIOS button, overclockers can easily choose which BIOS ROM they want to save & boot from.

CPU Level Up

A simple click for instant upgrade!

Ever wish that you could have a more expansive CPU? Upgrade your CPU at no additional cost with ROG's CPU Level Up! Simply pick the processor you wanted to OC to, and the motherboard will do the rest! See the new CPU speed and enjoy that performance instantly. Overclocking is never as easy as this.

Extreme Tweaker

One stop performance tuning shop

Extreme Tweakers is the one stop shop to fine-tune your system to optimal performance. No matter if you're looking for frequency adjustment, over-voltage options, or memory timing settings, they're all here!

Voltiminder LED

Friendly reminder on Voltage Settings

In the pursuit 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, PCH, and Memory in a intuitive color-coded fashion. The voltiminder LED allows quick voltage monitoring for overclockers.

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1-5

1.3.3 ROG unique features

COP EX

Maximum OC with condence with burn proof protection to chipsets and

GPU! 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.

Loadline Calibration

Optimal power boost for extreme CPU overclocking!

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.

Onboard Switches

No more shorting pins or moving jumpers With an easy press during overclock, this exclusive onboard switch allows gamer to effortlessly fine-tune the performance without having to short the pins or moving jumpers!

ASUS Q-Connector

Make connections quick and accurate

The 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.

1.3.4 ASUS special features

USB 3.0 Support

10X Faster Date Rates!

Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0—the latest connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next generation components and peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10X faster and is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 components.

1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

SATA 6Gb/s Support

Experience the Future of Storage!

Supporting next-generation Serial ATA (SATA) storage interface, this motherboard delivers up to 6.0Gb/s data transfer rates. Additionally, get enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current bus systems.

8 O.C. Prole

Conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings

Freely share and distribute favorite overclocking settings The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate file, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite overclocking settings.

10-channel Audio

Enjoy High-End 10-channel sound system on your PC

The onboard 10-channel HD audio (High Definition 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. This motherboard now adopts the future standard to deliver the most vivid audio enjoyment.

3DMark® Vantage Advanced Edition

The Gamers' Benchmark

3DMarkVantage is the new industry standard PC gaming performance benchmark from Futuremark, newly designed for Windows Vista and DirectX10. It includes two new graphics tests, two new CPU tests, several new feature tests, and support for the latest hardware. 3DMark® Vantage is based on a completely new rendering engine, developed specifically to take full advantage of DirectX10, the new graphics API from Microsoft

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus

The best protection from viruses and spyware

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus Personal offers premium antivirus protection for individual users and home offices. It is based on advanced antivirus technologies. The product incorporates the Kaspersky® Anti-Virus engine, which is renowned for malicious program detection rates that are among the industry's highest.

ROG Maximus III Extreme

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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

information