Asus P5Q User Manual

P5Q Deluxe

Motherboard

E3717

First Edition
April 2008

Copyright © 2008 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any
means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written
permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).

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

product is defaced or missing.

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY
DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,
AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO
RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS
MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or

copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identication or explanation and to the
owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

ii

Contents

Contents ...................................................................................................... iii

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

Safety information ...................................................................................... ix

About this guide .......................................................................................... x

P5Q Deluxe specications summary ....................................................... xii

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

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

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

1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2

1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle unique features .................................. 1-3

1.3.3 ASUS Intelligent Performance and

Overclocking features ..................................................... 1-7

Chapter 2: Hardware information

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

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

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

2.2.2 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-3

2.2.3 Placement direction ........................................................ 2-4

2.2.4 Screw holes .................................................................... 2-4

2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-5

2.3.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 2-6

2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan ................................ 2-9

2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 2-10

2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-11

2.4.1 Overview ........................................................................2-11

2.4.2 Memory congurations .................................................. 2-12

2.4.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-13

2.5.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-13

2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-14

2.5.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-14

2.5.2 Conguring an expansion card ..................................... 2-14

2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-15

2.5.4 PCI slots ........................................................................ 2-16

iii

Contents

2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots ..................................................... 2-16

2.5.6 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots ............................................. 2-16

2.5.7 Universal PCI Express x16 slot ..................................... 2-16

2.6 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 2-18

2.7 Onboard switches ...................................................................... 2-20

2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-21

2.8.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-21

2.8.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-23

2.8.3 Installing the optional fan .............................................. 2-36

2.9 Startingupforthersttime ...................................................... 2-37

2.10 Turning off the computer ........................................................... 2-38

2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................. 2-38

2.10.2 Using the dual function power switch ............................ 2-38

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1

3.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 3-1

3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 3-4

3.1.3 AFUDOS utility ................................................................ 3-5

3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-7

3.2.1 BIOS menu screen .......................................................... 3-8

3.2.2 Menu bar ......................................................................... 3-8

3.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................... 3-8

3.2.4 Menu items ..................................................................... 3-9

3.2.5 Sub-menu items .............................................................. 3-9

3.2.6 Congurationelds ......................................................... 3-9

3.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................... 3-9

3.2.8 Scroll bar ......................................................................... 3-9

3.2.9 General help ................................................................... 3-9

3.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 3-10

3.3.1 System Time ................................................................. 3-10

3.3.2 System Date ................................................................. 3-10

3.3.3 Legacy Diskette A ......................................................... 3-10

3.3.4 Language ...................................................................... 3-10

3.3.5 SATA 1-6 ........................................................................3-11

3.3.6 StorageConguration ................................................... 3-12

iv

Contents

3.3.7 AHCI Conguration ....................................................... 3-13

3.3.8 System Information ....................................................... 3-14

3.4 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................ 3-15

3.4.1 Ai Overclock Tuner ....................................................... 3-15

3.4.2 CPU Ratio Setting ........................................................ 3-15

3.4.3 FSB Strap to North Bridge ........................................... 3-16

3.4.4 DRAM Frequency ........................................................ 3-16

3.4.5 DRAM Command Rate ................................................ 3-16

3.4.6 DRAM Timing Control .................................................. 3-16

3.4.7 DRAM Static Read Control .......................................... 3-18

3.4.8 Ai Clock Twister ............................................................ 3-18

3.4.9 Ai Transaction Booster ................................................. 3-18

3.4.10 CPU Voltage ............................................................... 3-19

3.4.11 CPU GTL Voltage Reference(0/2) ................................ 3-19

3.4.12 CPU GTL Voltage Reference(1/3) ................................ 3-19

3.4.13 CPU PLL Voltage ......................................................... 3-19

3.4.14 FSB Termination Voltage .............................................. 3-19

3.4.15 DRAM Voltage ............................................................. 3-19

3.4.16 NB Voltage ................................................................... 3-20

3.4.17 NB GTL Voltage Reference .......................................... 3-20

3.4.18 SB Voltage ................................................................... 3-20

3.4.19 PCIE SATA Voltage ...................................................... 3-20

3.4.20 Load-Line Calibration ................................................... 3-20

3.4.21 CPU Spread Spectrum ................................................ 3-21

3.4.22 PCIE Spread Spectrum ................................................ 3-21

3.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-22

3.5.1 CPU Conguration ........................................................ 3-22

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

3.5.3 Onboard Device Conguration ...................................... 3-25

3.5.4 USB Conguration ........................................................ 3-27

3.5.5 PCIPnP ......................................................................... 3-28

3.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 3-29

3.6.1 Suspend Mode ............................................................. 3-29

3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ........................................ 3-29

3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support .......................................................... 3-29

v

Contents

3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 3-29

3.6.5 APM Conguration ........................................................ 3-30

3.6.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 3-31

3.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-33

3.7.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 3-33

3.7.2 Boot Settings Conguration .......................................... 3-34

3.7.3 Security ......................................................................... 3-35

3.8 Tools menu ................................................................................. 3-37

3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 3-37

3.8.2 Express Gate ................................................................ 3-38

3.8.3 ASUS O.C. Prole ......................................................... 3-39

3.8.4 Ai Net 2 ......................................................................... 3-40

3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 3-41

Chapter 4: Software support

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

4.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 4-1

4.2.1 Running the support DVD ............................................... 4-1

4.2.2 Drivers menu ................................................................... 4-2

4.2.3 Utilities menu .................................................................. 4-3

4.2.4 Make disk menu .............................................................. 4-5

4.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 4-6

4.2.6 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 4-6

4.2.7 Other information ............................................................ 4-7

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

4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™ ........................................................... 4-9

4.3.2 AI NET2 .........................................................................4-11

4.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II ......................................................... 4-12

4.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ............................................................... 4-18

4.3.5 ASUS AI Nap ................................................................ 4-20

4.3.6 ASUS Fan Xpert ........................................................... 4-21

4.3.7 ASUS AI Booster ........................................................... 4-23

4.3.8 ASUS EPU—Six Engine ............................................... 4-24

4.3.9 ASUS AI Direct Link ...................................................... 4-28

4.3.10 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX® High Denition Audio utility) ... 4-30

4.3.11 ASUS Drive Xpert ......................................................... 4-39

vi

Contents

4.3.12 ASUS Express Gate SSD ............................................. 4-50

4.4 RAID congurations .................................................................. 4-59

4.4.1 RAID denitions ............................................................ 4-59

4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks ..................................... 4-60

4.4.3 Intel® RAID congurations ............................................. 4-60

4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 4-68

4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .... 4-68

4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®...................... 4-68

Appendix: CPU features

A.1 Intel® EM64T ..................................................................................A-1

Using the Intel® EM64T feature ......................................................A-1

A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST) ........................A-1

A.2.1 System requirements ......................................................A-1

A.2.2 Using the EIST ................................................................A-2

A.3 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology ...........................................A-3

Using the Hyper-Threading Technology ........................................ A-3

vii

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

•

This device may not cause harmful interference, and

•

This device must accept any interference received including interference that
may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio

frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s

instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•

Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

•

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is

required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications

to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance

could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the
Canadian Department of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

viii

Safety information

Electrical safety

•

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

electrical outlet before relocating the system.

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a
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, make sure all cables are correctly connected and the
power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer
immediately.

•

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

•

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

•

Place the product on a stable surface.

•

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

service technician or your retailer.

This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical,
electronic equipment and mercury-containing button cell battery) should not
be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic
products.

ix

About this guide

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

the motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new
technology it supports.

• Chapter 2: Hardware information

This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It includes description of the switches,
jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.

• Chapter 3: BIOS setup

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

• Chapter 4: Software support

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

• Appendix: CPU features

The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the
motherboard supports.

Where to nd more information

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

1. ASUS websites

The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and
software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.

2. Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty

yers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not

part of the standard package.

x

Conventions used in this guide

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

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself

when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components

when trying to complete a task.

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a

task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a

task.

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

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

means that you must press the enclosed key.

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

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

key names are linked with a plus sign (+).

Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>

Command Means that you must type the command exactly

as shown, then supply the required item or value
enclosed in brackets.

Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:

afudos /iP5QD.ROM

xi

P5Q Deluxe specications summary

CPU LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Quad /

Chipset Intel® P45 / ICH10R with Intel® Fast Memory Access

System Bus 1600 / 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz

Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR2 1200 / 1066 / 800 /

Expansion Slots

Multi-GPU support Supports up to quad ATI CrossFireX™ GPUs

Storage Intel® ICH10R Southbridge:

LAN Dual Gigabit LAN controllers

Audio ADI®AD2000B8-channelHighDenitionAudioCODEC

Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Extreme /
Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 Processors
Compatible with Intel® 05B/05A/06 processors
Intel® 45nm Multi-Core CPU support
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list

Technology

667 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Dual channel memory architecture
* Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the

 MemoryQVL(QualiedVendorsLists).

2 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots, support ATI CrossFireX™
Technology at x8 speed (PCIe 2.0 x16_1 blue,

 PCIe2.0x16_2black*)
1xPCIExpressx16slotatmax.x4speed(black)**

2 x PCI Express x1 slots
2 x PCI slots
*PCIe2.0x16_2slot(black,atmax.x8link)
**If any other PCI Express x1 slot is occupied, this slot
will downgrade to max. x1 speed.

- 6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports

- Intel® Matrix Storage supporting SATA RAID 0,1,
5, and 10
Marvell 88SE6121 controller:

- 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 for up to 2 PATA devices
 - 1xExternalSATA3.0Gb/sport(SATAOn-the-Go)

Silicon Image SIL5723 controller (Drive Xpert
Technology):

- 2 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports

- Supports EZ Backup and Super Speed

Marvell® 88E8056 / 88E8001 Gigabit LAN controller
featuring AI NET2

- Supports Jack-Detecting, Multi-streaming, and Front
Panel Jack-Retasking

- Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O

- ASUS AI Audio 2

- ASUS Noise-Filtering

(continued on the next page)

xii

P5Q Deluxe specications summary

IEEE 1394 LSI® L-FW3227 controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports

USB 10 x USB 2.0 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at back

ASUS Unique features ASUS Power Saving Solution:

ASUS Stylish Features ASUS MyLogo3™

ASUS Exclusive
Overclocking Features

(one at midboard; one at back panel)

panel)

- ASUS EPU-Six Engine

- ASUS Xtreme 16-Phase Power Design

- ASUS AI Nap

ASUS AI Life Features:

- ASUS Express Gate SSD

- ASUS AI Direct Llink

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:

- ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-pipe solution

- ASUS Fanless Design: Stack Cool 2

- ASUS Fan Xpert

ASUS EZ DIY:

- ASUS Drive Xpert

- ASUS DieHard BIOS

- ASUS Q-Shield

- ASUS Q-Connector

- ASUS O.C. Prole

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS AI Booster utility
Precision Tweaker 2:

- vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.00625V
increment

- vDIMM: 64-step DRAM voltage control

- vChipset (N.B.): 48-step chipset voltage control

- vCPU PLL: 64-step CPU PLL voltage control

- vVTT_CPU: 40-step Hyper Transport voltage control

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)

- FSB tuning from 200MHz up to 800MHz at 1MHz
increment

- PCI Express frequency tuning from 100MHz up to
180MHz at 1MHz increment

Overclocking Protection:

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

(continued on the next page)

xiii

P5Q Deluxe specications summary

Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard / Mouse combo port

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

BIOS Features 16 Mb AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.4

Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, WOR by Ring, PXE,

Support DVD Contents Drivers

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

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial + Optical) port
1 x External SATA port
1 x IEEE1394a port
2 x RJ45 ports
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
8-channel Audio I/O ports

1 x Floppy disk drive connector
1 x COM connector
1 x IDE connector
6 x SATA connectors (Red)
1 x CPU Fan connector
3 x Chassis Fan connectors
1 x Power Fan connector
1 x IEEE1394a connector
Front panel audio connector
1 x S/PDIF Out Header
Chassis Intrusion connector
CD audio in
2 x Drive Xpert SATA connectors (Orange)
24-pin ATX Power connector
8-pin ATX 12V Power connectors
System Panel (Q-Connector)
1 x Power on switch
1 x Reset switch

Chassis Intrusion

ASUS PC Probe II
ASUS Update
ASUS AI Suite
Image-Editing Suite
Anti-virus software

(OEM version)

xiv

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

introduction

Product

1

Chapter summary

1

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

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

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

ASUS P5Q Deluxe

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® P5Q Deluxe motherboard!

The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!

Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the
items in your package with the list below.

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard ASUS P5Q Deluxe

I/O modules 1 x 2-port USB 2.0 and 1-port 1394 (4-pin) module

Cables 2 x 2-port Serial ATA power cables
8 x Serial ATA signal cables
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable
1 x Floppy disk drive cable

Accessories 1 x ASUS Q-Shield (I/O shield)
1 x ASUS Q-Connector Kit (USB, 1394, system
panel; Retail version only)
1 x ASUS Optional Fan for Water-Cooling or
Passive-Cooling only

Application DVD ASUS motherboard support DVD

Documentation User guide

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

ASUS P5Q Deluxe 1-1

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

Green ASUS

This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision

of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packagings to safeguard

consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.

Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™ 2 Quad /
Core™2 Duo Processor Support

This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme / Core™ 2 Quad /
Core™ 2 Duo processors in the LGA775 package. It is excellent for multi-tasking,

multi-media and enthusiastic gamers with 1600 / 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz FSB. The

Intel® Core™ 2 series processor is one of the most powerful CPUs in the world.
This motherboard also supports Intel® CPUs in the new 45nm manufacturing
process.

Intel P45 Chipset

The Intel® P45 Express Chipset is the latest chipset designed to support dual­channel DDR2 800 / 667 architecture, 1333 / 1066 / 800 FSB (Front Side Bus),
PCIe 2.0, and multi-core CPUs. It especially includes Intel® Fast Memory Access

technology that signicantly optimizes the use of available memory bandwidth and

reduces the latency of the memory accesses.

PCIe 2.0

This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 device for twice the current speed
and bandwidth. This enhances system performance while still providing backward
compatibility to PCIe 1.0 devices.

Serial ATA 3 Gb/s technology and SATA-On-The-Go

This motherboard supports hard drives based on the Serial ATA (SATA) 3 Gb/s

storage specication, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling the bus

bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and saves. The external SATA port located
at the back I/O provides smart setup and hot-plug functions. Easily backup photos,
videos and other entertainment contents to external devices.

1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Dual Gigabit LAN solution

The integrated dual Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network gateway

for managing trafc between two separate networks. This capability ensures rapid

transfer of data from WAN to LAN without any added arbitration or latency.

1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle unique features

ASUS Express Gate SSD

Taking only 5 seconds to go online from bootup, Express Gate is the one-stop

gateway to instant fun! It’s a unique motherboard built-in OS. You can utilize the

most popular Instant Messengers (IM) like MSN, Skype, Google talk, QQ, and
Yahoo! Messenger to keep in touch with friends, or quickly check on the weather

and e-mails just before leaving your house. What’s more, the user-friendly picture

manager lets you view your pictures without entering Windows at anytime!

ASUS True 16-Phase Power Design

The breakthrough technology of 16-phase VRM design is bringing to the ASUS

motherboard. 16-phase power design can reach the power efciency up to 96%+,

and dispel heat generated by VRM module effectively, and lower temperature
36°C+ compared to other VRM solution. With all Japanese-made best quality power
components such as low RDS (on) MOSFETs, Ferrite core chokes with lower
hysteresis loss, and high quality conductive polymer capacitors, ASUS 16-phase
VRM design also ensure longer component life, minimum power loss, and help to
reach the superior overclocking score ever than before.

ASUS Power Saving Solution

ASUS Power Saving solution intelligently and automatically provides balanced
computing power and energy consumption.

ASUS EPU-Six Engine

The new ASUS EPU - the world’s rst power saving engine, has been

upgraded to a new six-engine version, which provides total system power
savings by detecting current PC loadings and intelligently moderating power in
real-time. With auto phase switching for components (which includes the CPU,
VGA card, memory, chipset, ddrives and system fan), the EPU automatically
provides the most appropriate power usage via intelligent acceleration and
overclocking - helping save power and money.

ASUS P5Q Deluxe 1-3

AI Nap

With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise
when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS
environment, simply click the mouse or press a key.

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the
overclocking capability.

Fanless Design - Stack Cool 2

ASUS Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution that lowers

the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard
uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat
these critical components generate.

Fanless Design - Heat-pipe solution

The Heat Pipe design effectively directs the heat generated by the chipsets to
the heatsink near the back IO ports, where it can be carried away by existing

airow from CPU fan or bundled optional fan. The purpose of the innovative

heat pipe design on this motherboard is that the groundbreaking fanless
design does not have lifetime problems as a chipset fan does. Furthermore, it

provides options for users to install side-ow fan or passive cooler. The Heat

Pipe design is the most reliable fanless thermal solution to date.

DO NOT uninstall the heat-pipe by yourself. Doing so may bend the tubing and
affect the heat dissipation performance.

For optimal cooling performance, remove the protect lm attached on the

ICH10R southbridge before use.

Fan Xpert

ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows users to adjust both the CPU and chassis
fan speed according to different ambient temperature, which is caused
by different climate conditions in different geographic regions and system

loading. Built-in variety of useful proles offer exible controls of fan speed to

achieve a quiet and cool environment.

1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Optional Fan (for Water-Cooling or Passive-Cooling only)

The optional fan is specically designed to provide sufcient airow over the CPU
power modules and chipset area when water-cooling or passive-cooling is utilized,

ensuring effective heat dissipation for the entire system.

ASUS AI Direct Link

AI Direct Link can easily and efciently transfer large amounts of data via the
network cable - saving up to 70% of the total time taken. With AI Direct Link, it
becomes easy to backup or share large data les like movies or other media

content.

ASUS Crystal Sound

This feature can enhance speech-centric applications like Skype, online game,
video conference and recording.

ASUS AI Audio 2

AI Audio 2 creates a virtual center channel that expands the overall sound

eld without introducing a picket fencing effect. Preserving the dialogue or

solo performances with downmixing from multichannels will allow you to
experience true-to-life high quality audio.

Noise Filter

This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like
computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates
it in the incoming audio stream while recording.

ASUS EZ DIY

ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer
components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.

ASUS Drive Xpert

Without drivers or BIOS setups, the ASUS exclusive Drive Xpert is ideal for
anyone who needs to secure data on their hard drives or enhance hard drive

performances without the hassles of complicated congurations. With Drive
Xpert’s user-friendly graphical user interface, users can easily arrange hard

drive backups or enhance their hard drive transfer rates - making sure that
data is looked after every moment, every day.

ASUS P5Q Deluxe 1-5

ASUS Q-Shield

The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual “ngers”

-- making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity,
it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it
against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).

ASUS Q-Connector

ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis
front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the
trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding
wrong cable connections.

ASUS O.C. Prole

The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Prole that allows users to

conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be

stored in the CMOS or a separate le, giving users freedom to share and

distribute their favorite settings.

ASUS DieHard BIOS

The AUS DieHard BIOS consists of two BIOS chips, a main BIOS and a
backup BIOS. The ASUS DieHard BIOS can restore corrupted main BIOS
data from the backup BIOS automatically. The technology saves users the

hassle of recovering the BIOS le or buying a replacement BIOS chip.

ASUS EZ Flash 2

EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the predened

hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering the OS.
Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or using an

OS-based ash utility.

ASUS MyLogo3™

This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for
a more colorful and vivid image on your screen.

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1.3.3 ASUS Intelligent Performance and Overclocking features

AI Booster

The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows
environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS.

Precision Tweaker 2

Allows the user to adjust the NB Voltage, FSB termination Voltage, CPU PLL

Voltage and the DRAM Voltage in 0.02v steps to netune voltages to achieve the
most precise setting for the ultimate customized overclocking conguration.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the
BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the
system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system
chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the
BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.

ASUS P5Q Deluxe 1-7

1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

This chapter lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It
includes description of the jumpers and
connectors on the motherboard.

information

Hardware

2

Chapter summary

2

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

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

2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-5

2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-11

2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-14

2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-18

2.7 Onboard switches ...................................................................... 2-20

2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-21

2.9 Starting up for the rst time ...................................................... 2-37

2.10 Turning off the computer ........................................................... 2-38

ASUS P5Q Deluxe

2.1 Before you proceed

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASUS P5Q Deluxe 2-1

2.2 Motherboard overview

2.2.1 Motherboard layout

Refer to

2.8 Connectors

internal connectors.

2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information

for more information about rear panel connectors and

2.2.2 Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page

1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin ATX12V) 2-32

2. LGA775 CPU Socket 2-6

3. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN;
3-pin CHA_FAN1-3; 3-pin PWR_FAN)

4. DDR2 DIMM slots 2-11

5. CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting (3-pin OV_CPU; 3-pin
OV_NB)

6. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 2-30

7. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 2-23

8. ICH10R Serial ATA connectors [red] (7-pin SATA1-6) 2-25

9. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) 2-24

10. SIL5723 Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA_E1 [orange, port 0];
SATA_E2 [white, port 1]

11. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 2-18

12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 2-34

13. Power-on and Reset switch 2-20

14. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910) 2-27

15. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) 2-30

16. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 2-28

17. Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD) 2-33

18. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-31

19. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-33

20. ASUS Express Gate SSD 4-50

2-29

2-19

2-26

ASUS P5Q Deluxe 2-3

2.2.3 Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the
correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis
as indicated in the image below.

2.2.4 Screw holes

Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard
to the chassis.

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

Place this side towards

the rear of the chassis

2-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information