ASUS P6X58D PREMIUM User Manual

P6X58D

Premium

Motherboard

E4779

First Edition (V1)

November 2009

Copyright © 2009 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, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing byASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

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

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

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.

ii

Contents

Contents......................................................................................................................	iii
Notices .......................................................................................................................	vii
Safety information....................................................................................................	viii
About this guide..........................................................................................................	ix
P6X58D Premium specifications summary..............................................................	xi

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 unique features	1-3
	1.3.3 ........................................	ASUS exclusive overclocking features	1-5

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 ........................................................................	2-5
	2.3.2	Installing the CPU heatsink and fan .............................................	2-8
	2.3.3	Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ........................................	2-9
2.4	System memory........................................................................................		2-10
	2.4.1	Overview ....................................................................................	2-10
	2.4.2	Memory configurations . .............................................................	2-11
	2.4.3	Installing a DIMM .......................................................................	2-17
	2.4.4	Removing a DIMM .....................................................................	2-17
2.5	Expansion slots........................................................................................		2-18
	2.5.1	Installing an expansion card ......................................................	2-18
	2.5.2	Configuring an expansion card ..................................................	2-18
	2.5.3	Interrupt assignments ................................................................	2-19
	2.5.4	PCI slots . ...................................................................................	2-20
	2.5.5	PCI Express x1 slot . ..................................................................	2-20
	2.5.6	PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots ..........................................................	2-20
2.6	Jumpers	.....................................................................................................	2-22
2.7	Onboard .....................................................................................switches		2-23

iii

Contents

2.8	Connectors................................................................................................		2-25
	2.8.1	Rear panel connectors...............................................................	2-25
	2.8.2	Audio I/O connections................................................................	2-26
	2.8.3	Internal connectors....................................................................	2-29
	2.8.4	ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)...........................................	2-37
2.9	Starting up for the first time....................................................................		2-38
2.10	Turning off the computer.........................................................................		2-38

Chapter 3:		BIOS setup
3.1	Knowing BIOS.............................................................................................		3-1
3.2	Updating BIOS............................................................................................		3-1
	3.2.1	ASUS Update utility.....................................................................	3-2
	3.2.2	ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility...............................................................	3-4
	3.2.3	ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility...................................................	3-5
3.3	BIOS setup program...................................................................................		3-6
	3.3.1	BIOS menu screen......................................................................	3-6
	3.3.2	Menu bar......................................................................................	3-6
	3.3.3	Navigation keys...........................................................................	3-7
	3.3.4	Menu items..................................................................................	3-7
	3.3.5	Submenu items............................................................................	3-7
	3.3.6	Configuration fields......................................................................	3-7
	3.3.7	Pop-up window............................................................................	3-7
	3.3.8	Scroll bar......................................................................................	3-7
	3.3.9	General help................................................................................	3-7
3.4	Main menu...................................................................................................		3-8
	3.4.1	SATA 1–6.....................................................................................	3-8
	3.4.2	Storage Configuration................................................................	3-10
	3.4.3	AHCI Configuration....................................................................	3-11
	3.4.4	System Information....................................................................	3-11
3.5	Ai Tweaker menu......................................................................................		3-12
	3.5.1	Ai Overclock Tuner....................................................................	3-12
	3.5.2	CPU Ratio Setting......................................................................	3-13
	3.5.3	Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech....................................................	3-13
	3.5.4	Intel(R) TurboMode Tech...........................................................	3-13
	3.5.5	Xtreme Phase Full Power Mode................................................	3-13
	3.5.6	BCLK Frequency.......................................................................	3-13
	3.5.8	DRAM Frequency......................................................................	3-14
	3.5.9	UCLK Frequency.......................................................................	3-14
	3.5.10	QPI Link Data Rate....................................................................	3-14
	3.5.11	DRAM Timing Control................................................................	3-14

iv

Contents

	3.5.7	PCIE Frequency........................................................................	3-14
	3.5.12	CPU Voltage Control..................................................................	3-16
	3.5.13	CPU Voltage .............................................................................	3-16
	3.5.14	CPU PLL Voltage.......................................................................	3-16
	3.5.15	QPI/DRAM Core Voltage...........................................................	3-16
	3.5.16	IOH Voltage...............................................................................	3-17
	3.5.17	IOH PCIE Voltage......................................................................	3-17
	3.5.18	ICH Voltage................................................................................	3-17
	3.5.19	ICH PCIE Voltage......................................................................	3-17
	3.5.20	DRAM Bus Voltage....................................................................	3-17
	3.5.21	DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/B/C....................................	3-18
	3.5.22	DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA/B/C....................................	3-18
	3.5.23	Load-Line Calibration.................................................................	3-18
	3.5.24	CPU Differential Amplitude........................................................	3-18
	3.5.25	CPU Clock Skew.......................................................................	3-18
	3.5.26	CPU Spread Spectrum..............................................................	3-18
	3.5.27	IOH Clock Skew.........................................................................	3-18
	3.5.28	PCIE Spread Spectrum.............................................................	3-18
3.6	Advanced menu........................................................................................		3-19
	3.6.1	CPU Configuration.....................................................................	3-19
	3.6.2	Chipset.......................................................................................	3-22
	3.6.3	Onboard Devices Configuration.................................................	3-22
	3.6.4	USB Configuration.....................................................................	3-24
	3.6.5	PCIPnP......................................................................................	3-25
3.7	Power menu..............................................................................................		3-26
	3.7.1	Suspend Mode...........................................................................	3-26
	3.7.2	Repost Video on S3 Resume....................................................	3-26
	3.7.3	ACPI 2.0 Support.......................................................................	3-26
	3.7.4	ACPI APIC Support....................................................................	3-26
	3.7.5	EuP Ready.................................................................................	3-26
	3.7.6	APM Configuration.....................................................................	3-27
	3.7.7	Hardware Monitor......................................................................	3-28
3.8	Boot menu.................................................................................................		3-29
	3.8.1	Boot Device Priority...................................................................	3-29
	3.8.2	Boot Settings Configuration.......................................................	3-30
	3.8.3	Security......................................................................................	3-31
3.9	Tools menu................................................................................................		3-33
	3.9.1	ASUS EZ Flash 2.......................................................................	3-33
	3.9.2	Express Gate.............................................................................	3-34
	3.9.3	ASUS O.C. Profile.....................................................................	3-35

Contents

3.9.4	AI NET 2....................................................................................	3-36
3.10 Exit menu...................................................................................................		3-37

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	Obtaining the software manuals..................................................	4-2
4.3	Software information..................................................................................		4-3
	4.3.1	ASUS PC Probe II.......................................................................	4-3
	4.3.2	ASUS AI Suite..............................................................................	4-4
	4.3.3	ASUS EPU...................................................................................	4-5
	4.3.4	ASUS Fan Xpert..........................................................................	4-6
	4.3.5	ASUS TurboV..............................................................................	4-7
	4.3.6	ASUS Express Gate SSD............................................................	4-8
	4.3.7	Audio configurations....................................................................	4-9
4.4	RAID configurations.................................................................................		4-10
	4.4.1	RAID definitions.........................................................................	4-10
	4.4.2	Installing Serial ATA hard disks..................................................	4-11
	4.4.3	Setting the RAID item in BIOS...................................................	4-11
	4.4.4	Intel® Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility.....................	4-11
4.5	Creating a RAID driver disk.....................................................................		4-15
	4.5.1	Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS.................	4-15
	4.5.2	Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®..................................	4-15
	4.5.3	Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation.......	4-16
	4.5.4	Using a USB floppy disk drive...................................................	4-17

Chapter 5:		Multiple GPU technology support
5.1	ATI® CrossFireX™ technology...................................................................		5-1
	5.1.1	Requirements..............................................................................	5-1
	5.1.2	Before you begin..........................................................................	5-1
	5.1.3	Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards.................................	5-2
	5.1.4	Installing three CrossFireX™ graphics cards..............................	5-3
	5.1.5	Installing the device drivers.........................................................	5-4
	5.1.6	Enabling the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology................................	5-4
5.2	NVIDIA® SLI™ technology..........................................................................		5-6
	5.2.1	Requirements..............................................................................	5-6
	5.2.2	Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards.......................................	5-7
	5.2.3	Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards....................................	5-8
	5.2.4	Installing the device drivers.........................................................	5-9
	5.2.5	Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology......................................	5-9

vi

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

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

•This device may not cause harmful interference, and

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

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or

television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

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

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

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

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.

REACH

Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://green.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.

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

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

vii

Safety information

Electrical safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 qualified service technician or your retailer.

viii

About this guide

Thisuserguidecontainstheinformationyouneedwheninstallingandconfiguringthemotherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

•Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

•Chapter 2: Hardware information

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

•Chapter 3: BIOS setup

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

•Chapter 4: Software support

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

•Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support

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

Where to find more information

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

1.ASUS websites

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

2.Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

ix

Conventions used in this guide

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

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

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

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

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

Typography

Bold text	Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics	Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key>	Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means
	that you must press the enclosed key.
	Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
	Return key.
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3>	If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
	names are linked with a plus sign (+).
	Example: <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Del>

P6X58D Premium specifications summary

CPU

Chipset

System bus

Memory

Expansion slots

Multi-GPU support

Storage

LAN

Audio

IEEE 1394

USB

LGA1366 socket for Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition / Core™ i7 Processor

Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology

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

Intel® X58 / ICH10R

Up to 6.4GT/s; Intel® QuickPath Interconnect

6 x DIMM, max. 24GB, DDR3 2000(O.C.) / 1866(O.C.) / 1800(O.C.) /

1600(O.C.) / 1333 / 1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory

Triple channel memory architecture

Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)

* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs.

** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory

QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists)

3 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots (at x16/x8/x8 or x16/x16/x1 mode) 1 x PCI Express x1 slot

2 x PCI slots

Supports NVIDIA® 3-Way SLI™ Technology

Supports ATI® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology

Intel® ICH10R Southbridge

- 6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports

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

Marvell® 88SE9123 SATA 6.0 Gb/s controller

- 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports

Dual Gigabit LAN controllers

2 x Marvell® 88E8056 PCIe Gigabit LAN controller featuring AI NET2

Realtek® ALC889 8-channel High DefinitionAudio CODEC

- DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC - BD audio layer Content Protection

- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming, and Front

Panel Jack-Retasking

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

VIA® VT6308 controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports

(one at midboard; one at back panel)

NEC® USB 3.0 controller

- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (at back panel)

Intel® ICH10R Southbridge

- 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

(4 ports at midboard; 4 ports at back panel)

(continued on the next page)

xi

P6X58D Premium specifications summary

ASUS unique features	ASUS Xtreme Design
	ASUS Xtreme Phase:
	- ASUS 16+2 Phase Power Design
	ASUS Exclusive Overclocking Features
	-	ASUS TurboV
	ASUS Exclusive Features
	-	MemOK!
	-	ASUS EPU
	-	Express Gate SSD
	ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions
	- ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-pipe solution
	- ASUS Fanless Design: Stack Cool 3+
	-	ASUS Fan Xpert
	ASUS Crystal Sound
	-	ASUS Noise Filter
	ASUS EZ DIY
	-	ASUS Q-Slot
	-	ASUS Q-Shield
	-	ASUS Q-Connector
	-	ASUS O.C. Profile
	- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
	- ASUS EZ Flash 2
	-	ASUS MyLogo 2™
	- Multi-language BIOS
ASUS exclusive	ASUS TurboV utility
overclocking features	Precision Tweaker 2
	- vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.00625V increment
	- vCPU PLL: 36-step reference voltage control
	- vDRAM Bus: 49-step DRAM voltage control
	- vChipset(N.B.): 31-step chipset voltage control
	- vNB-PCIe: 65-step chipset-PCIe voltage control
	SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)
	- Internal Base Clock tuning from 100MHz up to 500 MHz 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)

xii

P6X58D Premium specifications summary

Back panel I/O ports

Internal I/O connectors

BIOS features

Manageability

Support DVD contents

Form factor

1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple)

1 x PS/2 mouse port (green)

1 x Clear CMOS button

1 x Coaxial S/PDIF Out port

1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port

1 x IEEE 1394a port

2 x LAN (RJ-45) ports

2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

8-channel Audio I/O ports

2 x USB connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (gray)

6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (blue)

1 x CPU Fan connector

3 x Chassis Fan connectors (1 x 4-pin, 2 x 3-pin) 1 x Power Fan connector

1 x IEEE1394a connector Front panel audio connector 1 x S/PDIF Out header

CD audio in

24-pin ATX Power connector

8-pin ATX 12V Power connector System Panel (Q-Connector)

1 x MemOK! button

1 x Power on switch

1 x Reset switch

16 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.3, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE

Drivers

ASUS Utilities

ASUS Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

ATX form factor: 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

xiii

xiv

Chapter 1

Chapter 1:

Product introduction

1.1Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® P6X58D Premium 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.

1.2Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Chapter 1

1 x ASUS P6X58D Premium motherboard	1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge cable
1 x 2-port USB 2.0 and 1-port	2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
eSATA module	4 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit	1 x ASUS Q-Shield
1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI™	1 x Optional Fan
bridge connector	for water-cooling or passive-cooling only

Manual

User

1 x User guide

1 x Support DVD

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

•The illustrated items above are for reference only.Actual product specifications may vary with different models.

ASUS P6X58D Premium

1-1

1 Chapter

1.3Special features

1.3.1Product highlights

Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition / Core™ i7 Processor support

This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™ i7 processors in LGA1366 package with integrated memory controller to support 3-channel (6 DIMMs) DDR3 memory. Supports Intel® QuickPath Interconnect (QPI) with a system bus of up to 6.4 GT/s and a max bandwidth of up to 25.6 GB/s. Intel® Core™ i7 processor is one of the most powerful and energy efficient

CPUs in the world. Refer to page 2-5 for details.

Intel® X58 Chipset

The Intel® X58 Express Chipset is one of the most powerful chipset designed to support the Intel® Core™ i7 Processors with LGA1366 package and Intel® next generation system

interconnect interface, Intel® QuickPath Interconnect (QPI), providing improved performance by utilizing serial point-to-point links, allowing increased bandwidth and stability. It also supports up to 36 PCI Express 2.0 lanes providing better graphics performance.

Triple-Channel DDR3 2000(O.C) / 1866(O.C.) / 1800(O.C.) / 1600(O.C.) / 1333 / 1066 support

The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of

2000(O.C.) / 1866(O.C.) / 1800(O.C.) / 1600(O.C.) /1333 / 1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The triple-channel DDR3 architecture enlarges the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance. Refer to page 2-10 for details.

3-Way SLI™ and Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ support

The P6X58D Premium breaks the boundaries to bring you the multi-GPU choice of either SLI™ or CrossFireX™. The motherboard features a dedicated graphics engine on the most powerful Intel® X58 platform to optimize PCIe allocation in multiple GPU configurations. Expect a brand-new gaming style you’ve never experienced before! Refer to chapter 5 for details.

True USB 3.0 Support

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

True Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s support

Supporting the next-generation Serial ATA (SATA) storage interface, this motherboard delivers up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer rates. Additionally, get enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current bus systems. Refer to page 2-30 for details.

Green ASUS

This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with theASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.

1-2	Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.3.2ASUS unique features

ASUS Xtreme Design

ASUS Xtreme Phase

ASUS True 16+2 Phase Power Design

The groundbreaking 16+2 phase VRM design is brought to the ASUS motherboards. 16+2 phase power design, 16-phase for vCore and extra 2-phase for QPI/Memory controller inside CPU, can provide the highest power efficiency, and hence generates less heat to effectively enhance the overclocking capability. With the high quality power components such as low RDS (on) MOSFETs, Ferrite core chokes with lower hysteresis loss, and 100% Japan-made high quality conductive polymer capacitors, ASUS 16+2 phase VRM design also ensure longer component life and minimum power loss.

ASUS Exclusive Features

MemOK!

Memory compatibility is among the top concerns during computer upgrades. Worry no more. MemOK! is the fastest memory booting solution today. This remarkable memory rescue tool requires nothing but a push of a buttton to patch memory issues and get your system up and running in no time. The technology is able to determine failsafe settings that can dramatically improve your system booting success. Refer to page 2-24 for details.

ASUS EPU

The ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) provides total system power management by detecting current PC loadings and intelligently moderating power usage for critical PC components in real-time–helping save power and money!

Express Gate SSD

Express Gate™ is an ASUS exclusive OS that provides you with quick access to the Internet and key applications before entering the Windows® OS. Refer to pages 3-34 and 4-8 for details.

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions

ASUS Quiet Thermal solutions make the system more stable and enhance the overclocking capability.

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 airflow 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-flow 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.

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Up to 20ºC (36ºF) Cooler—Stack Cool 3+

Stack Cool 3+ is a fanless cooling solution offered exclusively by ASUS. It effectively and noiselessly transfers heat generated by the critical components to the other side of the specially designed PCB (printed circuit board) for effective heat dissipation— making temperatures cooler by up to 20ºC.

Fan Xpert

ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures caused by different climate conditions

in different geographic regions and your PC’s loading. The built-in variety of useful profiles offer flexible controls of fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool environment.

Refer to page 4-6 for details.

ASUS Crystal Sound

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

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.

DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC

DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC delivers exceptional 5.1 surround experience through the most common PC audio setups—your existing stereo speakers or headphones. In addition to virtual surround, “Bass enhancement” provides stronger low frequency bass sound, and “Voice clarification” provides clear human dialogue even with loud background sound. With these technologies, you may experience a better home-theater audio with ease.

ASUS EZ DIY

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

ASUS Onboard Switch

With an easy press during overclocking, the exclusive onboard switches allow gamers to effortless fine-tune the performance without having to short the pins! Refer to page

2-23 for details.

ASUS Q-Slot

ASUS Q-Slot enhances your DIY experience that speeds up and simplifies the DIY process!

ASUS Q-Shield

ASUS Q-Shield’s special design makes it convenient and easy to install on your motherboard. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).

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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. Profile

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

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows you to restore corrupted BIOS data from a USB flash disk containing the BIOS file. This protection eliminates the need to buy a replacement

ROM chip.

ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility.

ASUS MyLogo2™

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.

Multi-language BIOS

The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the available options. The localized BIOS setup menu helps you configure your system easier and faster.

1.3.3ASUS exclusive overclocking features

ASUS TurboV

Feel the adrenaline rush of real-time OC—now a reality with the ASUS TurboV. This easy OC tool allows you to overclock without exiting or rebooting the OS; and its user-friendly interface makes overclock with just a few clicks away. Moreover, theASUS OC profiles in TurboV provides the best O.C. settings in different scenarios.

Precision Tweaker 2

Allows you to adjust the CPU voltage in 0.00625v steps and NB/DRAM voltage in 0.02v steps to fine-tune voltage to achieve the most precise setting for the ultimate overclocking configuration.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

The BIOS C.P.R. feature automatically restores the CPU default settings when the system hangs due to overclocking failure. 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 parameters to their default settings.

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Chapter 2

Chapter 2:

Hardware information

2.1Before 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.

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2.2Motherboard overview

2.2.1Motherboard layout

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Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

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2.2.2Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots		Page
1.	ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)	2-35
2.	CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1	2-33
	3-pin CHA_FAN2–3, 3-pin PWR_FAN)
3.	LGA1366 CPU Socket	2-5
4.	DDR3 DIMM slots	2-10
5.	CPU / DRAM Bus / QPI DRAM overvoltage settings (3-pin OV_CPU;	2-22
	3-pin OV_DRAM_BUS; 3-pin OV_QPI_DRAM)
6.	MemOK! switch (MEMOK)	2-24
7.	Marvell® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors	2-30
	(7-pin SATA_6G_1, 7-pin SATA_6G_2 [gray])
8.	ICH10R Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA1–6 [blue])	2-29
9.	System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)	2-36
10.	USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78)	2-31
11.	IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)	2-32
12.	Onboard Reset switch	2-23
13.	Onboard Power-on switch	2-23
14.	Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)	2-32
15.	Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)	2-34
16.	Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)	2-34

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2.2.3Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, ensure 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.

2.2.4Screw holes

Place nine 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

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2.3Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1366 socket designed for the Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition / Core™ i7 Processor.

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

	•	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
		LGA1366 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		2
		cap.
				Chapter
2.3.1	Installing the CPU

To install a CPU:

1.Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

Before installing the CPU, ensure that the cam box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left.

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2.Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is released from the retention tab.

To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you are installing a CPU.

3.Lift the load lever in the direction of the arrow to a 135º angle.

4.Lift the load plate with your thumb and forefinger to a 100º angle.

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5.Remove the PnP cap from the CPU socket.

Retention tab

A

B

Load lever

Load plate

PnP cap

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6.Position the CPU over the socket, ensuring that the gold triangle is on the bottom left corner of the socket, and then fit the socket alignment key into the CPU notch.

The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!

7.Apply some Thermal Interface Material to the exposed area of the CPU that the heatsink will be in contact with, ensuring that it is spread in an even thin layer.

Gold triangle mark

CPU notch

Alignment key

Some heatsinks come with pre-applied thermal paste. If so, skip this step.

The Thermal Interface Material is toxic and inedible. DO NOT eat it. If

it gets into your eyes or touches your skin, wash it off immediately, and seek

professional medical help.

To prevent contaminating the paste, DO NOT spread the paste with your finger directly.

8. Close the load plate (A), then push the load lever (B) until it snaps into the

retention tab.	A

B

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2.3.2Installing the CPU heatsink and fan

The Intel® LGA1366 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.

• When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, ensure that you use only Intel® certified multi directional heatsink and fan.

•Your Intel® LGA1366 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and requires no tool to install.

If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, ensure that the Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.

Ensure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you install the CPU fan and heatsink assembly.

	To install the CPU heatsink and fan:			A
	1.	Place the heatsink on top of the installed
				B
		CPU, ensuring that the four fasteners
				B
		match the holes on the motherboard.
	2.	Push down two fasteners at a time in
		a diagonal sequence to secure the		A
		heatsink and fan assembly in place.
		A	B
		B	A	1
				1

Orient the heatsink and fan assembly such that the CPU fan cable is closest to the CPU fan connector.

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3.Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.

DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.

2.3.3Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan

To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan:

1.	Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the		A
	connector on the motherboard.		B
2.	Rotate each fastener counterclockwise.		B
3.	Pull up two fasteners at a time in a
	diagonal sequence to disengage the		A
	heatsink and fan assembly from the
	motherboard.
	A	B

BA

4.Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.

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2.4System memory

2.4.1Overview

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

A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption.

The figure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:

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Recommended memory configurations

One DIMM:

You may install one memory module in slot A1, B1 or C1 as a single-channel operation.

Two DIMMs (dual-channel operation):

Three DIMMs (triple-channel operation):

DIMM A1	DIMM A1
DIMM B1	DIMM B1
	DIMM C1
Four DIMMs (triple-channel operation):	Six DIMMs (triple-channel operation):

DIMM A2 DIMM A1

DIMM B1 DIMM C1

DIMM A2 DIMM A1 DIMM B2

DIMM B1

DIMM C2

DIMM C1

Due to Intel CPU spec definition, the system will not boot if only one DIMM is installed in DIMM slot A2, B2, or C2. Follow the illustrations above for recommended memory configuration.

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