Asus MAXIMUS VI IMPACT User Manual

MAXIMUS VI
IMPACT

Motherboard

E8469
First Edition

July 2013

Copyright © 2013 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

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Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the

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OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF
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ii

Contents

Safety information ..................................................................................................... vii

About this guide ....................................................................................................... viii

MAXIMUS VI IMPACT specications summary ........................................................ x

Package contents ..................................................................................................... xiv

Installation tools and components .......................................................................... xv

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.1 Special features..........................................................................................1-1

1.1.1 Product highlights

1.1.2 ROG Gaming Features ...............................................................

1.1.3 ROG Exclusive Features

1.1.4 ASUS Special Features ..............................................................

1.1.5 ROG rich bundled software .........................................................

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

1.2.1 Before you proceed .....................................................................

1.2.2 Motherboard layout .....................................................................

1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................

1.2.4 System memory ..........................................................................

1.2.5 Expansion slot ...........................................................................

1.2.6 Onboard buttons .......................................................................

1.2.7 Jumper ......................................................................................

1.2.8 Onboard LEDs ..........................................................................

1.2.9 Internal connectors

1.2.10 ProbeIt

1.2.11 SupremeFX Impact audio card .................................................

....................................................................................... 1-40

........................................................................ 1-1

............................................................. 1-2

.................................................................... 1-31

1-2

1-3

1-3

1-5

1-5

1-6

1-8

1-9

1-16

1-18

1-21

1-22

1-41

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1 Building your PC system...........................................................................2-1

2.1.1 Motherboard installation ..............................................................

2.1.2 CPU installation

2.1.3 SupremeFX Impact audio card installation .................................

2.1.4 DIMM installation

2.1.5 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ...............................

2.1.6 ATX Power connection ..............................................................

2.1.7 SATA device connection ............................................................

2.1.8 Front I/O Connector ..................................................................

2.1.9 Expansion Card installation

2.1.10 mPCIe Combo II card installation

........................................................................... 2-4

......................................................................... 2-6

....................................................... 2-13

.............................................. 2-14

2-1

2-5

2-7

2-10

2-11

2-12

iii

2.2 BIOS update utility ................................................................................... 2-19

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections .............................................

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection ..................................................................

2.3.2 Audio I/O connections ...............................................................

2.4 Starting up for the rst time ....................................................................

2.5 Turning off the computer .........................................................................

2-20

2-20

2-22

2-25

2-25

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS ............................................................................................3-1

3.2 BIOS setup program ..................................................................................

3.2.1 EZ Mode

3.2.2 Advanced Mode ..........................................................................

3.3 My Favorites ...............................................................................................

3.4 Extreme Tweaker menu .............................................................................

3.5 Main menu ................................................................................................

3.6 Advanced menu .......................................................................................

3.6.1 CPU Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.2 PCH Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.3 SATA Conguration ...................................................................

3.6.4 System Agent Conguration

3.6.5 USB Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.6 Platform Misc Conguration ......................................................

3.6.7 Onboard Devices Conguration ................................................

3.6.8 APM ..........................................................................................

3.6.9 Network Stack Conguration

3.6.10 ROG Effects ..............................................................................

3.7 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................

3.8 Boot menu ................................................................................................

3.9 Tools menu ...............................................................................................

3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............................................................

3.9.2 ROG SSD Secure Erase ...........................................................

3.9.3 ASUS Overclocking Prole .......................................................

3.9.4 ASUS SPD Information .............................................................

3.9.5 ROG OC Panel H-Key Congure ..............................................

3.10 Exit menu ..................................................................................................

3.11 Updating BIOS ..........................................................................................

3.11.1 EZ Update .................................................................................

...................................................................................... 3-3

...................................................... 3-36

..................................................... 3-42

3-2

3-4

3-6

3-7

3-28

3-30

3-31

3-33

3-35

3-38

3-39

3-40

3-41

3-43

3-44

3-47

3-53

3-53

3-53

3-55

3-56

3-56

3-58

3-59

3-59

iv

3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ...................................................................... 3-60

3.11.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ..........................................................

3.11.4 ASUS BIOS Updater .................................................................

3-61

3-62

Chapter 4: Software support

4.1 Installing an operating system .................................................................4-1

4.2 Support DVD information ..........................................................................

4.2.1 Running the support DVD ...........................................................

4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals

.................................................. 4-2

4.3 Software information .................................................................................

4.4 AI Suite 3 .....................................................................................................

4.4.1 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization ...............

4.4.2 USB 3.0 Boost

........................................................................... 4-19

4.4.3 USB BIOS Flashback ................................................................

4.4.4 USB Charger+ ...........................................................................

4.4.5 Wi-Fi Engine

.............................................................................. 4-23

4.4.6 Wi-Fi GO! ..................................................................................

4.4.7 EZ Update .................................................................................

4.4.8 System Information ...................................................................

4.5 Audio congurations ...............................................................................

4.6 ROG Connect

............................................................................................ 4-47

4.7 MemTweakIt ..............................................................................................

4.8 RAMDisk ...................................................................................................

4.9 Sonic Radar ..............................................................................................

4.9.1 Main menu ...............................................................................

4.9.2 Game presets and Radar Selection .........................................

4.9.3 Advanced Settings ...................................................................

4.10 Perfect Voice .............................................................................................

4-1

4-1

4-3

4-3

4-7

4-20

4-22

4-25

4-42

4-44

4-46

4-49

4-51

4-54

4-54

4-56

4-57

4-59

Chapter 5: RAID support

5.1 RAID congurations ..................................................................................5-1

5.1.1 RAID denitions ..........................................................................

5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks ...................................................

5.1.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ....................................................

5.1.4 Intel

®

Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility ..................5-3

5-1

5-2

5-2

v

5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk.......................................................................5-7

5.2.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ..................

5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows

5.2.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows

®

.................................... 5-8

®

OS installation ........ 5-8

5-7

Appendices

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

ASUS contact information ...................................................................................... A-5

vi

Safety information

Electrical safety

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

•
before relocating the system.

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

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

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

•
power cables are unplugged.

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

•
could interrupt the grounding circuit.

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

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

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

•
technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals

•
that came with the package.

Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power

•
cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.

To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,

•
slots, sockets and circuitry.

Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area

•
where it may become wet.

Place the product on a stable surface.

•

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

•
technician or your retailer.

vii

About this guide

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

motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

1. Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

2. Chapter 2: Basic Installation

This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when
installing system components.

3. 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.

4. Chapter 4: Software support

This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.

5. Chapter 5: RAID support

This chapter describes the RAID congurations.

Where to nd more information

Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software
updates.

1. ASUS website

The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on ASUS hardware
and software products.

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.

viii

Conventions used in this guide

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

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to
complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to
complete a task

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

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

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

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

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

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

means that you must press the enclosed key.

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

names are linked with a plus sign (+).

ix

MAXIMUS VI IMPACT specications summary

LGA1150 socket for the 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel®
Core™ i5/Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium®, and Celeron® processors

Supports 22nm CPU

CPU

Chipset

Memory

Expansion slots

VGA

Storage

LAN

Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*

* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU

types.

** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

Dual channel memory architecture

2 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR3 3000 (O.C.) / 2933 (O.C.) / 2800
(O.C.) / 2666 (O.C.) / 2600 (O.C.) / 2400 (O.C.) / 2200 (O.C.) / 2133

(O.C.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1800 (O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 MHz,

non-ECC, un-buffered memory

Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)

* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of

individual CPUs.

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

1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot

1 x mini-PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot* on mPCIe Combo II expansion
card

* The mini PCIe slot is pre-installed with a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module.

Integrated Intel® HD Graphics Processor

DisplayPort 1.2 with max. resolution of 4096 x 2160 @ 24Hz and
3840 x 2160 @ 60Hz

HDMI with max. resolution of 4096 x 2160 at 24Hz / 2560 x 1600
@ 60Hz

Supports Intel® InTru™ 3D, Intel® Quick Sync Video, Intel® Clear
Video HD Technology, and Intel® Insider™

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

4 x SATA 6 Gb/s ports

®

- Intel

Rapid Storage Technology 12 supports RAID 0, 1, 5, and

10

®

- Intel

Smart Response Technology, Intel® Rapid Start

Technology, and Intel® Smart Connect Technology*

1 x eSATA port

1 x M.2 (NGFF) Socket 2 on mPCIe Combo II expansion card

- Supports PCI Express 2.0 and SATA 6 Gb/s standards

- Supports M.2 (NGFF) Type 2242/2260/2280/22110 SSD card
(up to 110mm in length)

* The supported functions depend on the CPU installed.

1 x Intel® I217-V Gigabit LAN Controller

(continued on the next page)

x

MAXIMUS VI IMPACT specications summary

Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac supports dual frequency band 2.4/5 Ghz

Wireless

Audio

USB

Back I/O Ports

Bluetooth v4.0/3.0+HS

* The module is pre-installed on the mPCIe Combo II expansion card.

ROG SupremeFX Impact 8-Channel High Denition

Audio*

- Lineout DAC playback Signal-to-Noise (A-weighted, differential
output): 115 dB

- Headphone DAC playback Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-weighted,
differential output): 110 dB

- SupremeFX Shielding Technology

®

- ELNA

Premium Audio Capacitors

- TI LM4562 high delity audio OP AMP

- Content Protection for Full Rate lossless DVD Audio, Blu-ray
DVD, and HD-DVD audio content playback

- Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking*

- Optical S/PDIF out port at back panel

Audio Feature:

- Sonic Radar

- DTS Connect

- Music PnP

* Jack-retasking supports 8-channel audio output using a chassis with

HD audio module in the front panel.

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

6 x USB 3.0 ports (4 ports at back panel [blue], 2 ports at mid-board

[red]*)

6 x USB 2.0 ports (4 ports at back panel, 1 for ROG Connect; 2

ports at mid-board**)

* Supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost. UASP standard on the Intel® native

USB 3.0 is only supported under Windows® 8.

** 2 x USB2.0 ports at mid-board share with ROG extension (ROG_EXT)

port.

1 x Optical S/PDIF out

1 x HDMI port

1 x DisplayPort

1 x Clear CMOS button

1 x Q-Code LED

1 x DirectKey button

1 x MemOK! button

1 x ROG Connect button

4 x USB 2.0 ports

1 x eSATA port

4 x USB 3.0 ports [blue]

1 x LAN (RJ45) port

3 x Audio jacks

(continued on the next page)

xi

MAXIMUS VI IMPACT specications summary

SupremeFX Impact

Impact Power

- Full digital 8+2 phase CPU/DRAM power

- 60A BlackWing Chokes

- 10K Black Metallic Capacitors

mPCIe Combo II (mPCIe/M.2 combo card)

ROG GameFirst II

ROG RAMDisk

CPU Level Up

ROG Connect*

- RC TweakIt

ROG Exclusive Features

Special Features

- RC Diagram

- RC Remote

- RC Poster

UEFI BIOS features

- Extreme Tweaker

- Tweaker’s Paradise

- ROG SSD Secure Erase

- BIOS Print

- GPU.DIMM Post

- O.C. Prole

- ROG Pulse

ProbeIt

* The dedicated ROG Connect cable is sold separately.

ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 4

- 4-way Optimization Tuning Key, consolidating DIGI+ Power

Control, TPU, EPU, and Fan Xpert 2

ASUS Exclusive Features

- AI Suite 3

- USB 3.0 Boost

- USB Charger+

- AI Charger

- Disk Unlocker

ASUS EZ DIY

- USB BIOS Flashback

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

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

ASUS Q-Design

- ASUS Q-Code

- ASUS Q-Shield

- ASUS Q-Cable

- ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)

- ASUS Q-DIMM

(continued on the next page)

xii

MAXIMUS VI IMPACT specications summary

1 x USB 3.0 connector (supports additional 2 USB 3.0 ports)

1 x USB 2.0 connector (supports additional 2 USB 2.0 port sharing
with ROG_EXT header)

1 x ROG Extension (ROG_EXT) header

4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors

1 x 4-pin CPU fan connector

3 x 4-pin Chassis fan connectors

1 x 24-pin EATX power connector

1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector

10 x ProbeIt measurement points

Internal Connectors

BIOS Features

Manageability WfM2.0, DMI2.0, WOL by PME, PXE

Software

Form Factor Mini-ITX Form Factor, 6.7” x 6.7” (17cm x 17cm)

1 x LN2 Mode jumper

1 x FastBoot jumper

1 x Power-on button

1 x Reset button

1 x DRCT (DirectKey) header

1 x S/PDIF out header

1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)

1 x System panel connector

1 x TPM connector

1 x SupremeFX Impact connector

1 x mPCIe Combo II connector

64 Mb UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI

2.0a, Multi-language BIOS

Drivers

ROG GameFirst II

ROG RAMDisk

ROG CPU-Z

ROG Mem TweakIt

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus

DAEMON Tools Pro Standard

ASUS WebStorage

ASUS Utilities

Specications are subject to change without notice.

xiii

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard ROG MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Cables 4 x SATA 6 Gb/s cables

Accessories I/O Shield

1 x 12-in-1 ROG cable label

1 x Q-Cable

1 x Optional 4-in-1 washers for CPU cooler backplate

1 x SupremeFX Impact audio card

1 x mPCIe Combo II card with dual-band Wi-Fi a/b/g/n/ac +
Bluetooth v4.0/3.0+HS module

1 x 2T2R dual-band Wi-Fi moving antennas

Application DVD ROG motherboard support DVD

Documentation User guide

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

xiv

Installation tools and components

1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver

PC chassis Power supply unit

Intel LGA 1150 CPU Intel LGA 1150 compatible CPU Fan

DDR3 DIMM SATA hard disk drive

SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional)

The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.

xv

xvi

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Product introduction

1

1.1 Special features

1.1.1 Product highlights

Republic of Gamers

The Republic of Gamers offers you the best of the best. We offer the best hardware
engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovative 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 Republic of Gamers and make your
presence felt.

LGA1150 socket for 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel

®

Intel

Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® Processors

This motherboard supports 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7/ Intel® Core™ i5/ Intel® Core™
i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors in the LGA1150 package. It provides great graphics
and system performance with its GPU, dual-channel DDR3 memory slots, and PCI Express

2.0/3.0 expansion slots.

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset is a single-chipset that supports the LGA1150 socket 4th
generation Intel® Core™ i7/ Intel® Core™ i5/ Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron®

processors. It utilizes the serial point-to-point links, which increases bandwidth and enhances

the system’s performance. It natively supports up to six USB 3.0 ports for up to ten times
faster transfer rate than USB 2.0, and enables the iGPU function for Intel® integrated graphics
performance.

PCI Express® 3.0

PCI Express® 3.0 (PCIe 3.0) is the PCI Express bus standard that provides twice the
performance and speed of PCIe 2.0. It provides an optimal graphics performance,
unprecedented data speed and seamless transition with its complete backward compatibility
to PCIe 1.0/2.0 devices.

®

Core™ i5 /

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chapter 1

1-1

1.1.2 ROG Gaming Features

SupremeFX Impact

The bundled SupremeFX Impact sound card brings you the best-in-class 115dB SNR sound
for your motherboard in mini-ITX form factor. Its exclusive differential circuit design and four

Op-Amps ensure lossless multi-channel gaming audio with exceptional clarity and delity.

The audiophile-grade TI LM4562 Op-Amp, one of the four Op-Amps, boosts high-end

headphone enjoyment of up to 600ohm impedance, ner detail, and stronger bass.

The Music PnP function provides you with a true home entertainment media center, allowing

you to stream audio les to your computer’s speakers via the front panel’s MIC-IN port. It

allows you to enjoy listening to your favorite tracks when your computer is turned off.

Sonic Radar

Sonic Radar, an audio app designed for First Person Shooting (FPS) games, shows the
precise direction and intensity of where a sound is coming from. In-game sound including

gunshots, footprints, voice call-outs, or even a ticking bomb, is visualized as radar signals

on the Sonic Radar display, providing you the advantage to know potential threats and avoid
sneaky surprises.

GameFirst II

ASUS GameFirst II, with cFOS Trafc Shaping technology, provides a powerful and user-

friendly network control to easily frag your gaming system. Featuring the EZ Mode for

beginners’ setup and Advanced Mode for professionals’ tweaking, your frags comes rst.

Intel Gigabit LAN

The LAN solution from Intel has been long known to have a better throughput, lower CPU

utilization as well as better stability. With the Intel Gigabit LAN solutions onboard, the

ultimate network experience can therefore be delivered to its users like never before.

1.1.3 ROG Exclusive Features

Impact Power

The Impact Power vertical architecture provides you the same vaunted overvolting and

overclocking exibilities just like any othe ROG boards - without sacricing stability,

overclocking, and precision on mini-ITX form factor. For precise CPU/memory digital power

control, Impact Power utilizes the best components such as BlackWing chokes, special n

design, and super-premium 10K black metallic solid state capacitors.

BlackWing chokes can handle as much as 60A of power, which is twice that of generic

chokes.The special n design, with its highly conductive and efcient gold-treated coating,

results in 3-5C lower choke temperatures for added stability and ensures minimal-loss power

Chapter 1

delivery. Super-premium 10K Black Metallic solid state capacitors are forged for overclocking

and the most extreme demands, lasting up to ve times longer than generic capacitors with

20% wider temperature tolerance.

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

RAMDisk

RAMDisk is an innovative program that reserves a part of your system’s memory and turns

it into a high-speed virtual drive where you can store cache les and game apps for instant
access. By optimizing the SSD, RAMDisk allows you to automatically backup, update, and
restore les.

RAMDisk only supports 64-bit operating systems.

CPU Level Up

With ROG’s CPU Level Up, overclocking has never been so easy, or cost-free. Simply select
the processor that you want to overclock to, and the motherboard will do the rest.

1.1.4 ASUS Special Features

AI Suite 3

With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite 3 consolidates all the exclusive ASUS
features into one simple-to-use software package. It allows you to supervise fan speed
control, voltage and sensor readings. This all-in-one software offers diverse and ease to use
functions, with no need to switch back and forth between different utilities.

USB BIOS FlashBack

USB BIOS F lashback offers a hassle-free updating solution for your ultimate convenience.

Install a USB storage device containing the BIOS le, press the BIOS Flashback button for

about three seconds, and the UEFI BIOS is automatically updated even without entering
the existing BIOS or operating system. It also allows you to regularly check for UEFI BIOS
updates, and download the latest BIOS automatically.

1.1.5 ROG rich bundled software

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus Personal offers premium antivirus protection for individual users and

home ofces. 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.

DAEMON Tools Pro Standard

DAEMON Tools Pro offers essential functionality to backup CD, DVD and Blu-ray discs. It
converts optical media into virtual discs and emulates devices to work with the virtual copies.

DAEMON Tools Pro organizes data, music, video, and photo collections on a PC, notebook,

or netbook.

ROG CPU-Z

ROG CPU-Z is a customized ROG version utitity authorized by Intel’s CPU Indentication

(CPUID) that allows you to gather information of the main devices of your system. It
gives you the information and status of your CPU, motherboard, memory, and the whole
component. Use the ROG look of reporting your system’s current information with ROG
CPU-Z.

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

1-3

Chapter 1

MemTweakIt

MemTweakIt is a DRAM efciency tool that allows you to read DRAM timings and allows you
to post and share your DRAM conguration scores to the ROG website.

DTS Connect

To get the most out of your audio entertainment across all formats and quality levels, DTS
Connect combines two enabling technologies, DTS Neo:PC™ upmixes stereo sources (CDs,
MP3s, WMAs, internet radio) into as many as 7.1 channels of incredible surround sound.
Consumers can connect their PC to a home theater system. DTS Interactive is capable of
performing mult-channel encoding of DTS bitstreams on personal computers, and sending
encoded bitstreams out of a digital audio connection (such as S/PDIF or HDMI) designed to
deliver audio to an external decoder.

Chapter 1

1-4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2 Motherboard overview

1.2.1 Before you proceed

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chapter 1

1-5

1.2.2 Motherboard layout

Chapter 1

1-6

Refer to 1.2.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information
about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons/Slots Page

1. LN2 Mode jumper 1-21

2. CPU, and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CHA_

FAN1-3)

3. TPM connector (10-1 pin TPM)

4. LGA1150 CPU Socket

5. DDR3 DIMM slots

6. ATX Power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)

7. RESET button

8. START (Power-on) button

9. Front panel and speaker connectors (10-1 pin F_PANEL; 4 pin

SPEAKER)

10. USB 3.0 connectors (20-1 pin USB3_12)

11. DirectKey connector (2-pin DRCT)

®

12. Intel

13. mPCIe Combo II connector

14. SupremeFX Impact connector (20-1 pin SUPREMEFX_IMPACT)

15. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1314)

16. ROG Extension connector (8 pin ROG_EXT)

17. Fast Boot jumper (3-pin FAST_BOOT)

18. MemOK! button

19. DirectKey button

20. Q_Code LEDs

Z87 Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-4 [red]) 1-31

1-34

1-38

1-8

1-9

1-35

1-18

1-18

1-36

1-32

1-37

1-38

1-39

1-33

1-37

1-21

1-19

1-20

1-24

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chapter 1

1-7

1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

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

• Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.

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

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

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

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

LGA1150 socket.

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

Chapter 1

1-8

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.4 System memory

The motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules
(DIMM) slots.

A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR
or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.

Recommended memory congurations

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chapter 1

1-9

Memory congurations

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

• Memory module with memory frequency higher than 2133 MHz and its corresponding
timing or the loaded XMP prole is not the JEDEC memory standard. The stability and

compatibility of these memory modules depend on the CPU’s capabilities and other
installed devices.

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

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

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

• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows OS, when you install 4GB
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:

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

b) Install a 64-bit Windows OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the

motherboard.

c) For more details, refer to the Microsoft

com/kb/929605/en-us.

• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less
(Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB).

®

support site at http://support.microsoft.

Chapter 1

1-10

• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked or at
a higher frequency, refer to section 3.4 Extreme Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.

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

memory load (2 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

MAXIMUS VI IMPACT Motherboard Qualied Vendors List (QVL)

DDR3 3000 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

G.SKILL F3-3000C12Q-16GTXDG 16GB (4x4GB) SS - - 12-14-14-35 1.65V •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket support

NO.

(Optional)

2

DDR3 2933 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

G.SKILL F3-2933C12D-16GTXDG 16GB (2 x8GB) DS 12-14-14-35 1.65V •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket support

NO.

(Optional)

2

DDR3 2800 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

A_DATA AX3U2800GW4G12-DG2 32GB (4x8GB) DS 12-14-14-36 1.65V •

Apacer 78.BAGH5.AFD0C 4GB DS 12-14-14-35 1.65V •

AVEXIR AVD3U28001204G-4CI 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 12-14-14-35 1.65V •

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A2800C11 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-14-14-35 1.65V •

CORSAIR CMY8G3M2A2800C12R 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 12-14-14-36 1.65V •

G.SKILL F3-2800C11D-16GTXDG 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 11-14-14-35 1.65V •

G.SKILL F3-2800C12Q-16GZHD 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 12-14-14-35 1.65V •

G.SKILL F3-2800C12Q-32GTXDG 32GB (4x8GB) DS 12-14-14-35 1.65V •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket support

NO.

(Optional)

2

DDR3 2666 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

APACER 78.BAGFF.AFC0C 16GB (4x4GB) SS - - 12-13-13-35 1.65V •

APACER 78.CAGFF.AFD0C 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 12-13-13-35 1.65V •

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A2666C11 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.65V •

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A2666C10 16GB (4x4GB) DS 10-12-12-31 1.65V •

CORSAIR CMY8GX3M2A2666C10R 8GB (2 x4GB) DS 10-12-12-31 1.65V •

G.SKILL F3-2666C11Q-32GTXD(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.65V •

G.SKILL F3-2666C10Q-16BZHD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65V •

GEIL GOC332GB2666C11QC(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.65V •

TEAM TXD38G2666HC11CBK 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.65V •

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support

(Optional)

2

Chapter 1

1-11

DDR3 2400 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

A-DATA AX3U2400GC4G10(XMP) 4GB DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

A-DATA AX3U2400GW8G11(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.65 •

Apacer 783BAGF3.AFD0C(XMP) 8GB ( 2x 4GB ) DS - - 11-11-11-30 - •

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M2A2400C10

CORSAIR CMD32GX3M4A2400C10

CORSAIR CMY16GX3M2A2400C10A

CORSAIR CMY16GX3M2A2400C10R

CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M2A2400C10 (Ver4.21) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M4A2400C9R

G.SKIIL F3-19200CL10Q2-64GBZHD(XMP) 64GB (8x 8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

G.SKIIL F3-2400C11Q-32GXM(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 11-13-13-31 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-19200CL10Q-32GBZHD(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-19200CL11Q-16GBZHD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP) 4G (2x 2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-19200CL9Q-16GBZMD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-11-31 1.65 •

GEIL GET34GB2400C9DC(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 •

GEIL GOC316GB2400C10QC(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 10-11-11-30 1.65 •

GEIL GOC316GB2400C11QC(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.65 •

Kingston KHX2400C11D3K4/8GX(XMP) 8GB (4x2GB) SS - - 11-13-11-30 1.65 •

KINGSTON KHX24C11K4/16X(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-13-13-30 1.65 •

KINGSTON KHX24C11T2K2/8X(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - - 1.65 •

KINGSTON KHX24C11T3K4/32X(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

Patriot PXD38G2400C11K(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 2400 11-11-

Team TXD34G2400HC10QBK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

Team TXD38G2400HC10QBK(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

(Ver4.21)(XMP)

(Ver5.29)(XMP)

(Ver4.21)(XMP)

(Ver4.21)(XMP)

(Ver4.13)(XMP)

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

16GB (8x2GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 2400 9-11-11-31 1.65 •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM

NO.

11-30

1.65 •

socket
support

(Optional)

2

DDR3 2200 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip

Chapter 1

GEIL GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.65 •

GEIL GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 •

1-12

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support

(Optional)

2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3 2133 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

A-DATA AX3U2133XW8G10(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-11-11-30 1.65 •

A-DATA AX3U2133XW8G10(XMP) 8GB DS - - 10-11-11-30 1.65 •

Apacer 78.BAGE4.AFD0C(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 - •

Apacer AHU04GFB33CAQ3R(XMP) 4GB DS - - 11-13-13-31 - •

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M2A2133C9

CORSAIR CMD32GX3M4A2133C9

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A2133C9

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2B2133C9

CORSAIR CMY8GX3M2A2133C11R

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A2133C11R

G.SKILL F3-17000CL11Q2-64GBZLD(XMP) 64GB (8x8GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.5 •

G.SKILL F3-17000CL9Q-16GBXLD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-17000CL9Q-16GBZH(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-10-28 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-2133C10Q-32GSR(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.5 •

G.SKILL F3-2133C11Q-32GZL(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.5 •

KINGSTON KHX2133C11D3K4/16GX(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-12-11-30 1.65 •

KINGSTON KHX21C11T3FK8/64X(XMP) 64GB (8x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 •

Patriot PV316G213C1K(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.5 •

Patriot PXD38G2133C11K(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

Patriot PXD38G2133C11K(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 2133 11-11-

Team TLD34G2133HC11ABK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.65 •

Team TLD38G2133HC11ABK(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.65 •

(Ver4.21)(XMP)

(Ver4.21)(XMP)

(Ver1.5)(XMP)

(Ver5.12)(XMP)

(Ver4.21)(XMP)

(Ver4.21)(XMP)

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 9-11-11-31 1.65 •

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-11-11-31 1.65 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-10-27 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-11-31 1.65 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-27 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-27 1.5 •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

11-27

1.5 •

support

(Optional)

2

DDR3 2133 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

AEXEA AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V

(XMP)

Asint SLA302G08-ML2HB (XMP) 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83B

GEIL GUP34GB2000C9DC (XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65 •

Patriot PV736G2000ELK (XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 •

Patriot PX7312G2000ELK (XMP) 12GB (3x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 •

4GB (2x2GB) DS - - - 1.65 •

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket

Brand

FRH9C

9-9-9-27 - •

support

(Optional)

2

Chapter 1

1-13

DDR3 2000 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

AEXEA AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - - 1.65 •

Asint SLA302G08-ML2HB(XMP) 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G

GEIL GUP34GB2000C9DC(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65 •

Patriot PV736G2000ELK(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 •

Patriot PX7312G2000ELK(XMP) 12GB

DDR3 1866 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

A-DATA AX3U1866XW8G10(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5 •

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A1866C9

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A1866C9

CORSAIR CMD32GX3M4A1866C9

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1866C9

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1866C9

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1866C9

CORSAIR CMT32GX3M4X1866C9(Ver3

CORSAIR CMY16GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver

CORSAIR CMY8GX3M2A1866C9

CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M2A1866C10

CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M4X1866C10

CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M4X1866C10(Ver

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

Chapter 1

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9G

Crucial BLE4G3D1869DE1XT0.16F

G.SKILL F3-14900CL10Q2-

(Ver4.13)(XMP)

(Ver8.16)(XMP)

(Ver3.24)(XMP)

(Ver4.13)(XMP)

(Ver5.12)(XMP)

(Ver8.16)(XMP)

.23)(XMP)

4.21)(XMP)

(Ver3.24)(XMP)

(Ver5.29)(XMP)

(Ver3.23)(XMP)

3.23)(XMP)

(Ver8.16)(XMP)

(Ver5.12)(XMP)

MD(XMP)

64GBZLD(XMP)

Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket

Brand

83BFRH9C

(3x4GB)

DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 •

Brand

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - - 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5 •

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-27 1.5 •

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-27 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 1866 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

4GB DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.5 •

64GB (8x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5 •

9-9-9-27 - •

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support

(Optional)

2

support

(Optional)

2

1-14

(Continued on the next page)

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3 1866 MHz capacity

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

G.SKILL F3-14900CL10Q-

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9D-

•

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-

G.SKILL F3-1866C9Q-32GXM(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5 •

KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3K2/

Patriot PXD34G1866ELK(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

Patriot PXD38G1866ELK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 •

Patriot PXD38G1866ELK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 •

Patriot PXD38G1866ELK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 1866 9-10-9-27 1.5 •

Team TED34GM1866C13BK 4GB DS Hynix H5TC2

Team TED38GM1866C13BK 8GB DS Hynix H5TQ4

Team TLD34G1866HC9KBK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.5 •

Team TLD38G1866HC10SBK

32GBZL(XMP)

8GBSR(XMP)

16GBZL(XMP)

16GBZL(XMP)

8GBFLD(XMP)

8GX(XMP)

(XMP)

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5 •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5 •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - - 1.65 •

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5 •

Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket

Brand

13-13-13-32 1.5 •

G83EFR

13-13-13-32 1.5 •

G83AFR

support

(Optional)

2

• Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided DIMMs

• DIMM socket support:

Supports one (1) module inserted into any slot as Single-channel memory

conguration. We suggest that you install the module into A1 slot.

Supports two (2) modules inserted into the red slots as one pair of Dual-channel

memory conguration.

• ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function.

• Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load
the X.M.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support.

• Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chapter 1

1-15

1.2.5 Expansion slot

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

Slot No. Slot Description

1 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 slot

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

A B C D E F G H

PCIE_x16 shared – – – – – – –
I.G.F.X. shared – – – – – – –
Intel LAN Controller – – – – shared – – –
SATA #0 – shared – – – – – –
SATA #1 – shared – – – – – –
High Denition Audio – – – – – – shared –
EHCI# 0 (USB 2.0) – – – – – – shared
EHCI# 1 (USB 2.0) – – – – shared – – –
XHCI (USB 3.0) – – – – – shared – –

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1.2.6 Onboard buttons

Onboard buttons allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-

case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to
enhance system performance.

1. Power-on button

The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake
up the system. The button also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source
indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
removing or installing any motherboard component.

2. Reset button

Press the reset button to reboot the system.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

3. MemOK! button

Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system boot
failure, and the DRAM_LED near the system memory lights continuously. Press the
MemOK! button until the MEMOK_LED memory compatibility tuning for successful
boot.

• Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the MEMOK_LED.

• The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the
system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.

• The MemOK! button does not function under Windows

• During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It
takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test
fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed
of the MEMOK_LED increases, indicating different test processes.

• Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each
timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning
process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones

recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on

the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

• If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system
continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn
off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.

• If your system fails to boot up due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! button
to boot and load the BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST
reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.

• We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the
ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.

®

OS environment.

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4. DirectKey button

This feature allows your system to go to the BIOS Setup program with the press of
a button. With DirectKey, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press
the <Del> key during POST. It also allows you to turn on or turn off your system and
conveniently enter the BIOS during boot-up.

Ensure to save your data before using the DirectKey button.

• When the system is on and you press the DirectKey button, your system will shut
down. Press the DirectKey button again or the Power-on button to reboot and enter
the BIOS directly.

• Turn off your system using the power-on button to allow your system to go through
POST (without entering the BIOS) when you reboot your system.

• Refer to section
function.

3.8 Boot Menu for details about setting the DirectKey default

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.7 Jumper

1. LN2 Mode jumper (3-pin LN2)

When enabled, the LN2 Mode jumper allows your system to eliminate the cold bugs
in the processor during POST. It allows the processor to run at an extremely low
temperature and helps the system boot fast.

2. Fast Boot jumper (3-pin FAST_BOOT)

This jumper allows you to enable or disable fast boot feature. When enabled, the
system boot speed is accelerated.

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1.2.8 Onboard LEDs

1. 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.

2. MemOK! LED

Blinking: Indicates that MemOK! is enabled before POST.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

3. Q LED

Q LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and booting devices) in
sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the corresponding

LED continues ashing until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides

an intuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds.

4. BIOS Flashback LED

This LED ashes when the BIOS is updating and turns off after the BIOS update.

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5. Q-Code LEDs

The Q-Code LED design provides you with a 2-digit error code that displays the system
status. Refer to the Q-Code table on the next page for details.

• The Q-Code LED automatically displays the POST code upon boot and the CPU
temperature upon entering the operating system.

• For more information about conguration of Q-Code LEDs, refer to section

ROG Effects.

3.6.10

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

Q-Code table

Code Description

00 Not used

01 Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard).

02 AP initialization before microcode loading

03 System Agent initialization before microcode loading

04 PCH initialization before microcode loading

06 Microcode loading

07 AP initialization after microcode loading

08 System Agent initialization after microcode loading

09 PCH initialization after microcode loading

0B Cache initialization

0C – 0D Reserved for future AMI SEC error codes

0E Microcode not found

0F Microcode not loaded

10 PEI Core is started

11 – 14 Pre-memory CPU initialization is started

15 – 18 Pre-memory System Agent initialization is started

19 – 1C Pre-memory PCH initialization is started

2B – 2F Memory initialization

30 Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)

31 Memory Installed

32 – 36 CPU post-memory initialization

37 – 3A Post-Memory System Agent initialization is started

3B – 3E Post-Memory PCH initialization is started

4F DXE IPL is started

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Q-Code table

Code Description

50 – 53

54 Unspecied memory initialization error

55 Memory not installed

56 Invalid CPU type or Speed

57 CPU mismatch

58 CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error

59 CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed

00 Not used

01 Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard).

02 AP initialization before microcode loading

03 System Agent initialization before microcode loading

04 PCH initialization before microcode loading

06 Microcode loading

07 AP initialization after microcode loading

08 System Agent initialization after microcode loading

09 PCH initialization after microcode loading

0B Cache initialization

0C – 0D Reserved for future AMI SEC error codes

0E Microcode not found

0F Microcode not loaded

10 PEI Core is started

11 – 14 Pre-memory CPU initialization is started

15 – 18 Pre-memory System Agent initialization is started

19 – 1C Pre-memory PCH initialization is started

2B – 2F Memory initialization

Chapter 1

30 Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)

31 Memory Installed

32 – 36 CPU post-memory initialization

37 – 3A Post-Memory System Agent initialization is started

Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory

speed

1-26

(continued on the next page)

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Q-Code table

Code Description

3B – 3E Post-Memory PCH initialization is started

4F DXE IPL is started

50 – 53

54 Unspecied memory initialization error

55 Memory not installed

56 Invalid CPU type or Speed

57 CPU mismatch

58 CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error

59 CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed

5A Internal CPU error

5B Reset PPI is not available

5C – 5F Reserved for future AMI error codes

E0 S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is called by the DXE IPL)

E1 S3 Boot Script execution

E2 Video repost

E3 OS S3 wake vector call

E4 – E7 Reserved for future AMI progress codes

E8 S3 Resume Failed

E9 S3 Resume PPI not Found

EA S3 Resume Boot Script Error

EB S3 OS Wake Error

EC – EF Reserved for future AMI error codes

F0 Recovery condition triggered by rmware (Auto recovery)

F1 Recovery condition triggered by user (Forced recovery)

F2 Recovery process started

F3 Recovery rmware image is found

F4 Recovery rmware image is loaded

F5 – F7 Reserved for future AMI progress codes

F8 Recovery PPI is not available

Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory

speed

(continued on the next page)

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Q-Code table

Code Description

F9 Recovery capsule is not found

FA Invalid recovery capsule

FB – FF Reserved for future AMI error codes

60 DXE Core is started

61 NVRAM initialization

62 Installation of the PCH Runtime Services

63 – 67 CPU DXE initialization is started

68 PCI host bridge initialization

69 System Agent DXE initialization is started

6A System Agent DXE SMM initialization is started

6B – 6F System Agent DXE initialization (System Agent module specic)

70 PCH DXE initialization is started

71 PCH DXE SMM initialization is started

72 PCH devices initialization

73 – 77 PCH DXE Initialization (PCH module specic)

78 ACPI module initialization

79 CSM initialization

7A – 7F Reserved for future AMI DXE codes

90 Boot Device Selection (BDS) phase is started

91 Driver connecting is started

92 PCI Bus initialization is started

93 PCI Bus Hot Plug Controller Initialization

94 PCI Bus Enumeration

95 PCI Bus Request Resources

96 PCI Bus Assign Resources

Chapter 1

97 Console Output devices connect

98 Console input devices connect

99 Super IO Initialization

9A USB initialization is started

9B USB Reset

(continued on the next page)

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

Q-Code table

Code Description

9C USB Detect

9D USB Enable

9E – 9F Reserved for future AMI codes

A0 IDE initialization is started

A1 IDE Reset

A2 IDE Detect

A3 IDE Enable

A4 SCSI initialization is started

A5 SCSI Reset

A6 SCSI Detect

A7 SCSI Enable

A8 Setup Verifying Password

A9 Start of Setup

AA Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)

AB Setup Input Wait

AC Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)

AD Ready To Boot event

AE Legacy Boot event

AF Exit Boot Services event

B0 Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP Begin

B1 Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP End

B2 Legacy Option ROM Initialization

B3 System Reset

B4 USB hot plug

B5 PCI bus hot plug

B6 Clean-up of NVRAM

B7 Conguration Reset (reset of NVRAM settings)

B8– BF Reserved for future AMI codes

D0 CPU initialization error

D1 System Agent initialization error

(continued on the next page)

Chapter 1

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Q-Code table

Code Description

D2 PCH initialization error

D3 Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available

D4 PCI resource allocation error. Out of Resources

D5 No Space for Legacy Option ROM

D6 No Console Output Devices are found

D7 No Console Input Devices are found

D8 Invalid password

D9 Error loading Boot Option (LoadImage returned error)

DA Boot Option is failed (StartImage returned error)

DB Flash update is failed

DC Reset protocol is not available

ACPI/ASL Checkpoints

Code Description

0x01 System is entering S1 sleep state

0x02 System is entering S2 sleep state

0x03 System is entering S3 sleep state

0x04 System is entering S4 sleep state

0x05 System is entering S5 sleep state

0x10 System is waking up from the S1 sleep state

0x20 System is waking up from the S2 sleep state

0x30 System is waking up from the S3 sleep state

0x40 System is waking up from the S4 sleep state

0xAC System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in PIC mode.

0xAA System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in APIC mode.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.9 Internal connectors

1. Intel® Z87 Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-4 [red])

These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6 Gb/s
signal cables.

If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10

conguration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z87

chipset.

• These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.6.3 SATA Conguration for details.

• When using NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [

3.6.3 SATA Conguration for details.

AHCI Mode]. Refer to section

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2. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)

This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.0 module for additional USB 3.0 front

or rear panel ports. With an installed USB 3.0 module, you can enjoy all the benets of

USB 3.0 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, faster charging time for

USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efciency, and backward compatibility with

USB 2.0.

• The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately.

• These connectors are based on xHCI specication. We recommend you to install the

related driver to fully use the USB 3.0 ports under Windows® 7.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

3. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1314)

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

chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specication that supports up to

480 MBps connection speed.

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

The USB2.0 ports (USB1314) at mid-board share with ROG extension (ROG_EXT) port.

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4. CPU and chassis fan connectors

(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3)

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

• DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air ow

inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers!
Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors!

• Ensure to fully insert the 4-pin CPU fan cable to the CPU fan connector.

The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.

Chapter 1

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

5. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)

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

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

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

minimum power of 350 W.

• Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug. Otherwise, the system
will not boot.

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

system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or
may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

• If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with
1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.

• If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.

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6. Front panel and speaker connectors (10-1 pin PANEL; 4 pin SPEAKER)

These connectors support several chassis-mounted functions.

• System power LED (2-pin PLED)

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

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

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

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

to the HDD.

• System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)

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

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

This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns
the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS
settings. Pressing the power button for more than four seconds while the system is ON
turns the system OFF.

• Reset button (2-pin RESET)

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without
turning off the system power.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction

7. DirectKey connector (2-pin DRCT)

This connector is for the chassis-mounted button that supports the DirectKey function.
Connect the button cable that supports DirectKey, from the chassis to this connector on
the motherboard.

Ensure that your chassis comes with the extra button cable that supports the DirectKey
feature. Refer to the technical documentation that came with the chassis for details.

8. ROG Extension - ROG_EXT connector (18-1 pin ROG_EXT)

This connector is for the OC Panel and other ROG devices.

• The OC Panel is purchased separately.

• The OC Panel allows you to perform overclocking without going to the BIOS setup,
loading the OS, or using overclocking software and utilities.

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9. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

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

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

the network security, protects digital identities, and ensures platform integrity.

10. mPCIe Combo II connector (36-2 pin MPCIE_COMBO_II)

This connector is for the bundled mPCIE Combo II card that offers expandability and
connectivity solutions for an optimal system performance.

Chapter 1

1-38

Refer to section 2.1.10 mPCIe Combo II card installation for more details.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

11. SupremeFX Impact connector (20-1 pin SUPREMEFX_IMPACT)

This connector is for the bundled SupremeFX Impact audio card that allows you to
connect audio devices such as speakers, microphone, or headset. It also has the front
panel audio connector for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module. Connect
your bundled SupremeFX Impact audio card to this connector.

Refer to section 1.2.11 SupremeFX Impact audio card for more details.

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1.2.10 ProbeIt

The ROG ProbeIt allows you to detect your system’s current voltage and OC settings. Use a
multimeter to measure the ProbeIt points even during overclocking.

Using ProbeIt

You can connect the multimeter to Probelt points on your motherboard as shown on the
illustration below.

Chapter 1

1-40

The illustration above is for reference only. The motherboard layout and ProbeIt measure
points may differ by models.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.11 SupremeFX Impact audio card

The bundled SupremeFX Impact audio card integrates all the audio functions of your
motherboard. It consists of 3 audio ports to connect your audio devices and a front panel
audio connector (AAFP) for the front panel audio solution.

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

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

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

• If you want to connect a high-denition or an AC’97 front panel audio module to this

connector, set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD Audio] or [AC97].
Refer to section 3.6.7 Onboard Devices Conguration for more details.

• To use the Music PnP feature, refer to section

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2.3.1 Rear I/O connection.

Chapter 1

1-41

2. Audio ports

These high-denition audio ports allow you to connect your audio devices such as
high-denition speakers, microphone, or a headset for a superior audio experience.

To know more about channel congurations and connecting audio devices, refer to section

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections.

Line-in port

Line-out port

Microphone port

Chapter 1

1-42

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

Basic Installation

2.1 Building your PC system

2.1.1 Motherboard installation

The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with
models.

1. Install the ASUS Q-Shield to the chassis rear I/O panel.

2

2. Remove the two screws and nuts on both sides of the Impact Power card from the
motherboard using a screw driver and set them aside for future use.

Impact Power card

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Chapter 2

2-1

3. Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to
the chassis’ rear I/O panel.

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

Chapter 2

2-2

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

Chapter 2

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2-3

2.1.2 CPU installation

Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 socket only. DO NOT install
a CPU designed for LGA155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1150 socket.

Chapter 2

2-4

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.3 SupremeFX Impact audio card installation

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Chapter 2

2-5

2.1.4 DIMM installation

To remove a DIMM

Chapter 2

2-6

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.5 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation

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

To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

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Chapter 2

2-7

Chapter 2

OR

If you have difculty in installing a CPU fan with a cooler backplate of varying design, we

suggest to use the bundled plastic washers to give space between the motherboard and
the backplate. Peel of the adhesive’s cover and attach them to the screw holes at the back
of the motherboard, as shown.

2-8

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

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Chapter 2

2-9

2.1.6 ATX Power connection

OR

Chapter 2

2-10

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.7 SATA device connection

OR

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2.1.8 Front I/O Connector

To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector

F_PANEL

USB 2.0

To install USB 3.0 connector

USB 3.0

Chapter 2

2-12

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.9 Expansion Card installation

To install PCIe x16 cards

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2-13

2.1.10 mPCIe Combo II card installation

ROG mPCIe Combo II card offers expandability solutions with the latest connectivity
standards via the proprietary connector onboard. It provides mini PCI Express 2.0 plus USB

2.0 which is bundled with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module and features the M.2 (NGFF) slot for

installing an SSD card.

• The mPCIe Combo II card supports 26.8mm x 30mm half-sized mPCIe module on

one side and M.2 (NGFF) Type 2242 (22mm x 42mm), 2260 (22mm x 60mm), 2280
(22mm x 80mm), or 22110 (22mm x110mm) SSD cards for slot B on the other side.

• The M.2 (NGFF) SDD card is purchased separately.

Installing the M.2 (NGFF) SSD module

To install M.2 (NGFF) SSD module:

1. Remove the two short screws at the
back of the mPCIe Combo II card metal
cover.

2. Remove the long screw at the front,
then remove the metal cover.

3. Align and insert the M.2 (NGFF) SSD
module into the M.2 slot.

Chapter 2

2-14

The M.2 (NGFF) SSD module ts in one orientation only. If it does not t, try reversing it.

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

4. Replace the metal cover and secure
the back of the metal cover with the
two short screws that you removed in
step 1.

5. Secure the front of the metal cover
with the long screw that you removed
in step 2.

Installing the mPCIe Combo II card

To install the mPCIe Combo II card to your motherboard:

1. Remove the black screw near the
36-2 pin connector.

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Chapter 2

2-15

2. Locate the MPCIE_COMBO_II
connector on the motherboard then
align and insert the mPCIe Combo
II card to the MPCIE_COMBO_II
connector.

The mPCIe Combo II ts in one orientation only.

Insert the mPCIe Combo II carefully to prevent damage to the card, connector pins, or to
the motherboard.

3. Secure the mPCIe Combo II card either to the motherboard or the rear I/O shield using
the black screw that you removed in step 1.

Chapter 2

2-16

OR

The motherboard layout varies with models.

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

Installing the Wi-Fi antenna connector

bolt

bolt

washer

washer

To install the Wi-Fi antenna connector:

1. Remove the bolt from the Wi-Fi antenna
connector but leave the washer on the
connector.

2. Insert the connector into the I/O shield’s Wi-Fi port hole.

3. Replace the bolt on the connector to secure the antenna connector and the I/O shield
in place.

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4. Secure the Wi-Fi antenna cable to the hooks on the I/O shield, as shown.

Chapter 2

2-18

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.2 BIOS update utility

USB BIOS Flashback

USB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the existing
BIOS or operating system. Simply insert a USB storage device to the USB port, press the
ROG button for three seconds, and the BIOS is updated automatically.

To use USB BIOS Flashback:

1. Download the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website

2. Extract and rename the BIOS image le to

3. Copy

M6I.CAP to the root directory of the USB ash disk drive.

4. Turn off the system and insert the USB storage device to the ROG Connect port.

5. Press the ROG Connect button and release when a ashing light appears, which

indicates that the BIOS Flashback function is enabled.

6. Wait until the light goes out, indicating that the BIOS updating process is completed.

M6I.CAP.

ROG Connect

For more BIOS update utilities in BIOS setup, refer to the section Updating BIOS in
Chapter 3.

Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process and
results to the system’s failure to boot up, please contact your local ASUS Service Center.

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button

USB BIOS
Flashback port

Chapter 2

2-19

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection

Rear panel connectors

1. Optical S/PDIF OUT port

2. Clear CMOS button

3. eSATA port

4. LAN (RJ-45) port*

5. HDMI port

6. DisplayPort

7. ROG Connect button

Chapter 2

8. USB 2.0 ports 7-10

9. USB 3.0 port 3 and 4

10. USB 3.0 port 5 and 6

11. Audio I/O ports**

* and ** : Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs and audio port denitions.

2-20

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

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

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

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

• Due to the design of the Intel
USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller. Some legacy USB

devices must update their rmware for better compatibility.

®

8 series chipset, all USB devices connected to the

* LAN ports LED indications

ACT/LINK

LED

SPEED

LED

Activity Link LED Speed LED

Status Description Status Description

OFF No link OFF 10 Mbps connection

ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection

LAN port

BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection

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

Port Headset

2.1-channel

LINEIN Line In Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out

LINEOUT Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

MIC Mic In Mic In Bass/Center Bass/Center

HEADPHONE

– – – Side Speaker Out

(Front panel)

• Jack-retasking supports 4.1, 5.1, and 7.1-channel audio outputs. Launch Realtek HD

Audio Manager to congure the jack-retasking setting.

• To support 7.1 channel audio output, ensure that your chassis has an HD audio
module on the front panel.

4.1-channel 5.1-channel 7.1-channel

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2-21

2.3.2 Audio I/O connections

Audio I/O ports

Connect to Headphone and Mic

Connect to Stereo Speakers

Chapter 2

2-22

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers

Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers

Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers

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Chapter 2

2-23

Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers

Using the Music PnP

Music PnP, an exclusive feature in your motherboard, allows you to listen to music les when

your system is turned off.

Chapter 2

2-24

Ensure that your system is connected to a grounded power outlet.

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.4 Starting up for the rst time

1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.

2. Ensure that all switches are off.

3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis.

4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector.

5. Turn on the devices in the following order:

a. Monitor

b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)

c. System power

6. After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up.
For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the
ATX power button. If your monitor complies with the “green” standards or if it has a
“power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up or change from orange to green
after the system LED turns on.

The system then runs the power-on self tests (POST). While the tests are running, the

BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table) or additional messages appear on
the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on
the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and
connections or call your retailer for assistance.

BIOS Beep Description

One short beep VGA detected

One continuous beep followed by two
short beeps then a pause (repeated)

One continuous beep followed by three
short beeps

One continuous beep followed by four
short beeps

Quick boot set to disabled
No keyboard detected

No memory detected

No VGA detected

Hardware component failure

7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 3.

2.5 Turning off the computer

While the system is ON, press the power button for less than four seconds to put the system
on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Press the power switch
for more than four seconds to let the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS
setting.

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Chapter 2

2-25

Chapter 2

2-26

Chapter 2: Basic Installation

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

BIOS setup

3

3.1 Knowing BIOS

The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unied Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI

architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-

only BIOS controls to enable a more exible and convenient mouse input. You can easily

navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as your operating system. The

term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specied.

BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage

device conguration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot
device conguration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In

normal circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure
optimal performance. DO NOT change the default BIOS settings except in the following
circumstances:

q An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you

to run the BIOS Setup.

q You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or

update.

Inappropriate BIOS settings may result to instability or boot failure. We strongly

recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service
personnel.

When downloading or updating the BIOS le, rename it as M6I.CAP for this motherboard.

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Chapter 3

3-1

3.2 BIOS setup program

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

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

Entering BIOS at startup

To enter BIOS Setup at startup, press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you
do not press <Delete>, POST continues with its routines.

Entering BIOS Setup after POST

To enter BIOS Setup after POST:

q Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously.

q Press the reset button on the system chassis.

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

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

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

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

• If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized
Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey <F5>. See section 3.10 Exit Menu
for details.

• If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and
reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 1.2.6 Onboard buttons for
information on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button.

• The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.

BIOS menu screen

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

Chapter 3

3-2

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.2.1 EZ Mode

The EZ Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to
select the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access
the Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode or press <F7>
hot key for the advanced BIOS settings.

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

Setup Mode item in section 3.8 Boot menu for details.

Selects the display language of the
BIOS setup program

Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature,
CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage output, CPU/chassis/
power fan speed

Displays the selected
shortcut items

Selects the boot device priority

Power Saving mode

Displays the Advanced
mode menus

Normal mode

ASUS Optimal
mode

Click to display all fan

speeds if available

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

Boot Menu

Loads optimized default
settings

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

• The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.

• The

Boot Menu (F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the

system.

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Chapter 3

3-3

3.2.2 Advanced Mode

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

To access the Advanced Mode, click Exit, then select Advanced Mode or press F7 hotkey.

Menu items

Submenu item

Menu bar

Conguration elds

Pop-up window

Scroll bar

Menu bar

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

General help

Navigation keys

My Favorites For saving the frequently-used system settings and conguration.

Chapter 3

Extreme Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings

Main For changing the basic system conguration

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Monitor

Boot For changing the system boot conguration

Tool For conguring options for special functions
Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

3-4

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

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Menu items

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

selecting Main shows the Main menu items.

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

Back button

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

Submenu items

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

Pop-up window

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

options for that item.

Scroll bar

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

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

Navigation keys

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

If you delete all shortcut items from the F3: Shortcut list, the default shortcut items will
reappear after your next startup.

General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. Use
<F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removable storage device.

Conguration elds

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

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

press <Enter> to display a list of options.

Quick Note button

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

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

• You can only use the alphanumeric characters to enter your notes.

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Chapter 3

3-5

Last Modied button

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

3.3 My Favorites

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

Adding items to My Favorites

To add frequently-used BIOS items to My Favorites:

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

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

Chapter 3

3-6

You cannot add the following items to My Favorites:

• Items with submenu options

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

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

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.4 Extreme Tweaker menu

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

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

values can cause the system to malfunction

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

installed on the motherboard.

Scroll down to display other BIOS items.

Overclocking Presets

Allows you to load the various settings suitable for your overclocking needs.

Load Gamer’s OC Profile

Allows you to load the overclocking presets suited for gaming.

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 190 BCLK Profile

Allows you to load the 190 Base Clock prole.
Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chapter 3

3-7

Load 195 BCLK Profile

Allows you to load the 195 Base Clock prole.
Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 200 BCLK Profile

Allows you to load the 200 Base Clock prole.
Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]

Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal

frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking conguration options:

[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Manual] Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.

[X.M.P.] If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Prole

CPU Strap [Auto]

Allows you to select a strap close to your target BCLK (base clock) or leave it at
[Auto] for the BIOS to decide.

Conguration options: [Auto] [100MHz] [125MHz] [167MHz] [250MHz]

PLL Selection [Auto]

Set this item to [SB PLL] if you want to overclock the system beyond 100MHz DMI

frequency. Set to [LC PLL] for less jittery system performance.

Filter PLL [Auto]

Allows you to select a BCLK (base clock) mode when running in a high or low BCLK.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Low BCLK Mode] [High BCLK Mode]

BCLK Frequency [100.0]

Allows you to set the BCLK frequency to enhance the system performance. Use the

<+> or <-> to adjust the value. The values range from 60.0MHz - 300.0MHz.

Initial BCLK Frequency (Auto)

Allows you to set the initial BCLK (base clock) frequency to enhance the system

performance. Use the <+> or <-> to adjust the value. The values range from 85.0MHz

Chapter 3

- 100.0MHz.

(X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the proles supported by your
memory modules for optimizing the system performance.

The following items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [Manual] or
[XMP].

The following item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [XMP].

3-8

XMP DDR3 (eXtreme Memory Profile) [Profile #1]

Allows you to select the X.M.P. mode supported by your memory module.

Conguration options: [Prole #1] [Prole #2]

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Auto]

[Auto] Default is set to [Auto] for maximum performance under XMP, Manual, or

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

User-dened memory frequency mode.

CPU Core Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU ratio and sync automatically, per core or all cores.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Sync All Cores] [Per Core]

When the CPU Core Ratio is set to [Sync All Cores], the following item appears.

1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

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

When the CPU Core Ratio is set to [Per Core], the following item appears:

1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

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

2-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually
assign a 2-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3-Core
Ratio Limit.

3-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually
assign a 3-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 4-Core
Ratio Limit.

4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually
assign a 4-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3-Core
Ratio Limit.

If you assign a value for more Core Ratio Limit, do not set the less Core Ratio Limit to

[Auto].

Min. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the minimum possible ratio on the Uncore part of the processor. Use the
<+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.

Max. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the maximum possible ratio on the Uncore part of the processor. Use the
<+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.

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Chapter 3

3-9

Internal PLL Overvoltage [Auto]

Allows you to enable the internal PLL voltage for K-SKU CPUs to get the extreme
overclocking capability.

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

BCLK Frequency: DRAM Frequency Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the base clock frequency of the DRAM frequency ratio.

[Auto] The DRAM ratio is set to its optimized settings.

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

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

DRAM Frequency [Auto]

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

BCLK Frequency Ratio item settings.

Xtreme Tweaking [Disabled]

This item helps improve some benchmarks performance.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Max. CPU Graphics Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to automatically optimize the CPU Graphics Ratio or manually set a value for an

optimal CPU Graphics Ratio. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the CPU graphics ratio. The
minimum value depends on the installed CPU.

CPU Level Up [Auto]

Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically adjusted
according to the selected CPU level.

Conguration options: [Auto] [4.600G] [4.400G] [4.200G]

EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DRAM Timing Control

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

Chapter 3

Memory Presets

Allows you to select a preset memory setting for different memory modules.

Load 2x2GB Elpida Hyper 1.8V 2133

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x2GB PSC 1.65V 2400

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

3-10

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Load 2x2GB 1T PSC 1.85V 2400

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x2GB PSC 1.85V 2600

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x2GB LN2 PSC 1.85V 2600

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x2GB BBSE 1.65V 2200

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x2GB BBSE 1.85V 2400

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x2GB LN2 BBSE 2.0V 2600

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB Samsung 1.65V 2666

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB Samsung 1.85V 2666

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB Samsung 1.85V 2800

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB Hynix 1.65V 2600

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB Hynix 1.85V 2600

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB Hynix 1.85V 2750

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB LN2 Hynix 2.0V 2800

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB Hynix Single-sided 1.65V 2400

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB Hynix Single-sided 1.85V 2400

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x4GB New Single-sided 1.85V 3000

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x8GB Samsung 1.65V 2400

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x8GB Samsung 1.80V 2933

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x8GB Hynix 1.85V 2600

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 2x8GB New Hynix 1.85V 2600

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chapter 3

3-11

Maximus Tweak [Auto]

[Auto] Allows the system to set the memory compatibility, overclocking, and

[Mode 1] Helps memory compatibility in your system.

[Mode 2] Helps overclocking and stabilizes system performance.

Primary Timings

DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]

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

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]

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

DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]

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

DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]

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

DRAM COMMAND Rate [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [3]

Latency Boundary A [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [27]

Latency Boundary B [Auto]

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

Latency Compensator [Auto]

Set this item to [Enabled] to improve performance and overclocking.

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

Secondary Timings

DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]

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

Chapter 3

DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]

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

DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto]

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

Load 2GB RAW MHz

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load 4GB/8GB RAW MHz

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

system performance.

3-12

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]

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

DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]

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

DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]

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

DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]

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

DRAM CKE Minimum Pulse Width [Auto]

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

DRAM CAS# Write Latency [Auto]

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

RTL IOL control

DRAM RTL Initial Value [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D0) [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D1) [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D0 [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D1 [Auto]

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

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Chapter 3

3-13

Third Timings

tRDRD [Auto]

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

tRDRD_dr [Auto]

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

tRDRD_dd [Auto]

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

tWRRD [Auto]

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

tWRRD_dr [Auto]

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

tWRRD_dd [Auto]

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

tWRWR [Auto]

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

tWRWR_dr [Auto]

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

tWRWR_dd [Auto]

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

Dec_WRD

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] – [1]

tRDWR [Auto]

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

Chapter 3

tRDWR_dr [Auto]

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

tRDWR_dd [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D0 [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D1) [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R1D0) [Auto]

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

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R1D1) [Auto]

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

3-14

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

MISC

MRC Fast Boot [Auto]

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

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

DRAM CLK Period [Auto]

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

Channel A DIMM Control [Enable Bot...]

Allows you to enable or disable the Channel A DIMM slots with the following

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

[Disable Both DIMMS]

Channel B DIMM Control [Enable Bot...]

Allows you to enable or disable the Channel B DIMM slots with the following

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

[Disable Both DIMMS]

Scrambler Setting [Optimized ...]

Set this item to [Optimized (ASUS)] to enhance system stability.
Conguration options: [Optimized (ASUS)] [Default (MRC)]

MCH Full Check [Auto]

Set this item to [Enabled] to enhance the system stability. Set to [Disabled] to
enhance the DRAM overclocking capability.

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

Skew Control

Allows you to achieve better DRAM overclocking capability and stability.

Transmitter Rising Slope [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] - [31]

Transmitter Falling Slope [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] - [31]

Transmitter Control Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] - [31]

Receiver Rising Slope [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] - [31]

Receiver Rising Slope [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] - [31]

Receiver Control Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] - [31]

DQ Sense Amplifier [Auto]

Reducing the value helps in overclocking and over-voltage.

Conguration options: [Auto] [+8] – [-6]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI IMPACT

Chapter 3

3-15

DQS Sense Amplifier [Auto]

Reducing the value helps in overclocking and over-voltage.

Conguration options: [Auto] [+8] – [-6]

CMD Sense Amplifier [Auto]

Reducing the value helps in overclocking and over-voltage.

Conguration options: [Auto] [+8] – [-6]

DRAM Swizzling Bit 0 [Auto]

Set these items to [Enabled] to enhance overclocking capability.

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

DRAM Swizzling Bit 1-4 [Auto]

Set these items to [Enabled] to enhance overclocking capability.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Trained] [Enabled] [Disabled]

RAW MHz Aid [Auto]

Set this item to [Enabled] to help overclocking but compromises the system
performance.

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

IC Optimizer [Auto]

Set this item to [Enabled] to help overclocking when using Samsung IC memory
modules.

Conguration options: [Auto] [4GB Samsung] [4GB New Hynix] [4GB Old Hynix]

GPU.DIMM Post

Automatically detects and displays the information about the devices or memory installed on

the PCIe and DIMM slots. The eld shows N/A if there are no devices installed on the slots.

DIGI+ Power Control

CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Load-line is dened by Intel® VRM specication and affects CPU power voltage. The

CPU working voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line
calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking performance but increases
the CPU and VRM thermal conditions.
Select from Level 1 to Level 8 to adjust CPU power voltage from 0% to 100%.

Chapter 3

3-16

• The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specication.

• DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions must be monitored.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup