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, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the
product is defaced or missing.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY
DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.
SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,
AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO
RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS
MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or
copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identication or explanation and to the
owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.
ii
Contents
Contents ...................................................................................................................... iii
Notices ......................................................................................................................
Safety information .................................................................................................... viii
About this guide ......................................................................................................... ix
P6X58D Premium specications summary ............................................................. xi
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! ....................................................................................................1-1
1.2 Package contents
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
1.3.2 ASUS unique features
1.3.3 ASUS exclusive overclocking features
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview ...............................................................................
2.2.1 Motherboard layout .....................................................................
2.2.2 Layout contents ...........................................................................
2.2.3 Placement direction
2.2.4 Screw holes
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................................
2.3.1 Installing the CPU .......................................................................
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan ............................................
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
2.4 System memory .......................................................................................
2.4.1 Overview ...................................................................................
2.4.2 Memory congurations ..............................................................
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM ......................................................................
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ....................................................................
2.5 Expansion slots
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card
2.5.2 Conguring an expansion card .................................................
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments
2.5.4 PCI slots ....................................................................................
2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slot ...................................................................
2.5.6 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots .........................................................
2.6 Jumpers ....................................................................................................
2.7 Onboard switches ....................................................................................
....................................................................................... 1-1
.......................................................................................... 1-2
........................................................................ 1-2
................................................................. 1-3
........................................ 1-5
2-2
2-2
2-3
..................................................................... 2-4
................................................................................. 2-4
2-5
2-5
2-8
........................................ 2-9
2-10
2-10
2-11
2-17
2-17
........................................................................................ 2-18
...................................................... 2-18
2-18
................................................................ 2-19
2-20
2-20
2-20
2-22
2-23
vii
iii
Contents
2.8 Connectors ...............................................................................................2-25
2.8.1 Rear panel connectors ..............................................................
2.8.2 Audio I/O connections ...............................................................
2.8.3 Internal connectors
2.8.4 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) ..........................................
2.9 Starting up for the rst time ....................................................................
2.10 Turning off the computer .........................................................................
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.1 Knowing BIOS ............................................................................................3-1
3.2 Updating BIOS ............................................................................................
3.2.1 ASUS Update utility
3.2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ...............................................................
3.2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
3.3 BIOS setup program ..................................................................................
3.3.1 BIOS menu screen ......................................................................
3.3.2 Menu bar .....................................................................................
3.3.3 Navigation keys ...........................................................................
3.3.4 Menu items
3.3.5 Submenu items ...........................................................................
3.3.6 Conguration elds .....................................................................
3.3.7 Pop-up window
3.3.8 Scroll bar .....................................................................................
3.3.9 General help
3.4 Main menu ..................................................................................................
3.4.1 SATA 1–6 ....................................................................................
3.4.2 Storage Conguration ...............................................................
3.4.3 AHCI Conguration ...................................................................
3.4.4 System Information ...................................................................
3.5 Ai Tweaker menu ......................................................................................
3.5.1 Ai Overclock Tuner ....................................................................
3.5.2 CPU Ratio Setting .....................................................................
3.5.3 Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech ...................................................
3.5.4 Intel(R) TurboMode Tech ...........................................................
3.5.5 Xtreme Phase Full Power Mode ...............................................
3.5.6 BCLK Frequency .......................................................................
3.5.8 DRAM Frequency
3.5.9 UCLK Frequency
3.5.10 QPI Link Data Rate ...................................................................
3.5.11 DRAM Timing Control ...............................................................
.................................................................... 2-29
..................................................................... 3-2
................................................... 3-5
.................................................................................. 3-7
............................................................................ 3-7
................................................................................ 3-7
...................................................................... 3-14
....................................................................... 3-14
2-25
2-26
2-37
2-38
2-38
3-1
3-4
3-6
3-6
3-6
3-7
3-7
3-7
3-7
3-8
3-8
3-10
3-11
3-11
3-12
3-12
3-13
3-13
3-13
3-13
3-13
3-14
3-14
iv
Contents
3.5.7 PCIE Frequency ........................................................................ 3-14
3.5.12 CPU Voltage Control .................................................................
3.5.13 CPU Voltage
3.5.14 CPU PLL Voltage ......................................................................
3.5.15 QPI/DRAM Core Voltage
3.5.16 IOH Voltage ...............................................................................
3.5.17 IOH PCIE Voltage .....................................................................
3.5.18 ICH Voltage ...............................................................................
3.5.19 ICH PCIE Voltage
3.5.20 DRAM Bus Voltage ...................................................................
3.5.21 DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/B/C ....................................
3.5.22 DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA/B/C ...................................
3.5.23 Load-Line Calibration ................................................................
3.5.24 CPU Differential Amplitude ........................................................
3.5.25 CPU Clock Skew .......................................................................
3.5.26 CPU Spread Spectrum
3.5.27 IOH Clock Skew ........................................................................
3.5.28 PCIE Spread Spectrum .............................................................
3.6 Advanced menu .......................................................................................
3.6.1 CPU Conguration ....................................................................
3.6.2 Chipset ......................................................................................
3.6.3 Onboard Devices Conguration ................................................
3.6.4 USB Conguration ....................................................................
3.6.5 PCIPnP .....................................................................................
3.7 Power menu ..............................................................................................
3.7.1 Suspend Mode ..........................................................................
3.7.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ....................................................
3.7.3 ACPI 2.0 Support ......................................................................
3.7.4 ACPI APIC Support ...................................................................
3.7.5 EuP Ready ................................................................................
3.7.6 APM Conguration ....................................................................
3.7.7 Hardware Monitor
3.8 Boot menu ................................................................................................
3.8.1 Boot Device Priority
3.8.2 Boot Settings Conguration ......................................................
3.8.3 Security .....................................................................................
3.9 Tools menu ...............................................................................................
3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ......................................................................
3.9.2 Express Gate ............................................................................
3.9.3 ASUS O.C. Prole .....................................................................
............................................................................. 3-16
........................................................... 3-16
...................................................................... 3-17
.............................................................. 3-18
...................................................................... 3-28
................................................................... 3-29
3-16
3-16
3-17
3-17
3-17
3-17
3-18
3-18
3-18
3-18
3-18
3-18
3-18
3-19
3-19
3-22
3-22
3-24
3-25
3-26
3-26
3-26
3-26
3-26
3-26
3-27
3-29
3-30
3-31
3-33
3-33
3-34
3-35
v
Contents
3.9.4 AI NET 2 .................................................................................... 3-36
3.10 Exit menu ..................................................................................................
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
4.3 Software information .................................................................................
4.3.1 ASUS PC Probe II .......................................................................
4.3.2 ASUS AI Suite .............................................................................
4.3.3 ASUS EPU ..................................................................................
4.3.4 ASUS Fan Xpert
.......................................................................... 4-6
4.3.5 ASUS TurboV ..............................................................................
4.3.6 ASUS Express Gate SSD ...........................................................
4.3.7 Audio congurations
.................................................................... 4-9
4.4 RAID congurations ................................................................................
4.4.1 RAID denitions ........................................................................
4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks .................................................
4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ..................................................
4.4.4 Intel
4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk
®
Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility ..................... 4-11
..................................................................... 4-15
4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ................
4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows
4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows
4.5.4 Using a USB oppy disk drive ...................................................
.................................................. 4-2
®
.................................. 4-15
®
OS installation ...... 4-16
3-37
4-1
4-1
4-3
4-3
4-4
4-5
4-7
4-8
4-10
4-10
4-11
4-11
4-15
4-17
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
5.1 ATI® CrossFireX™ technology ..................................................................5-1
5.1.1 Requirements ..............................................................................
5.1.2 Before you begin .........................................................................
5.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards ................................
5.1.4 Installing three CrossFireX™ graphics cards ..............................
vi
5.1.5 Installing the device drivers .........................................................
5.1.6 Enabling the ATI
5.2 NVIDIA
®
SLI™ technology ......................................................................... 5-6
5.2.1 Requirements ..............................................................................
5.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards ......................................
5.2.3 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards ....................................
5.2.4 Installing the device drivers .........................................................
5.2.5 Enabling the NVIDIA
®
CrossFireX™ technology ...............................5-4
®
SLI™ technology ..................................... 5-9
5-1
5-1
5-2
5-3
5-4
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-9
Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference, and
• This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required
to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
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 x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
• Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals
that came with the package.
• Before using the product, 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 qualied service
technician or your retailer.
viii
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts:
• Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports.
• Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when
installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and
connectors on the motherboard.
• Chapter 3: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
• Chapter 4: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
• Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
This chapter describes how to install and congure multiple ATI® CrossFireX™ and
NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.
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.
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.
Italic
s 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>
x
P6X58D Premium specications summary
CPU LGA1366 socket for Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition /
Chipset Intel® X58 / ICH10R
System bus Up to 6.4GT/s; Intel® QuickPath Interconnect
Memory 6 x DIMM, max. 24GB, DDR3 2000(O.C.) / 1866(O.C.) / 1800(O.C.) /
Expansion slots 3 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots (at x16/x8/x8 or x16/x16/x1 mode)
Multi-GPU support Supports NVIDIA® 3-Way SLI™ Technology
Storage Intel® ICH10R Southbridge
LAN Dual Gigabit LAN controllers
Audio Realtek® ALC889 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC
IEEE 1394 VIA® VT6308 controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports
USB NEC® USB 3.0 controller
Core™ i7 Processor
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list
1600(O.C.) / 1333 / 1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Triple channel memory architecture
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (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 (Qualied Vendors Lists)
1 x PCI Express x1 slot
2 x PCI slots
Supports ATI® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
- 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
2 x Marvell® 88E8056 PCIe Gigabit LAN controller featuring
AI NET2
- 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
(one at midboard; one at back panel)
- 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 specications 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. Prole
- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
- ASUS EZ Flash 2
- ASUS MyLogo 2™
- Multi-language BIOS
ASUS exclusive
overclocking features
ASUS TurboV utility
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 specications summary
Back panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple)
Internal I/O connectors 2 x USB connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports
BIOS features 16 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0,
Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE
Support DVD contents Drivers
Form factor ATX form factor: 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
*Specications are subject to change without notice.
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 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
SM BIOS 2.3, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS,
ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS Utilities
ASUS Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
xiii
xiv
Chapter 1
User Manual
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome!
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.
1.2 Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
1 x ASUS P6X58D Premium motherboard 1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge cable
1 x 2-port USB 2.0 and 1-port
eSATA module
1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit 1 x ASUS Q-Shield
1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI™
bridge connector
2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
4 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
1 x Optional Fan
for water-cooling or passive-cooling only
Chapter 1
ASUS P6X58D Premium 1-1
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 specications may
vary with different models.
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
Chapter 1
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 efcient
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 congurations. 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 the ASUS 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
1.3.2 ASUS 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 efciency, 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.
Chapter 1
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 airow 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.
ASUS P6X58D Premium 1-3
Up to 20ºC (36ºF) Cooler—Stack Cool 3+
Stack Cool 3+ is a fanless cooling solution offered exclusively by ASUS. It effectively
Chapter 1
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
proles offer exible 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 clarication” 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 ne-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 simplies 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).
1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
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. Prole
The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Prole that allows you to conveniently store
or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a
separate le, 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 ash
disk containing the BIOS le. 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 oppy 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 congure your system
easier and faster.
Chapter 1
1.3.3 ASUS 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, the ASUS OC proles 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 ne-tune voltage to achieve the most precise setting for the ultimate overclocking
conguration.
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.
ASUS P6X58D Premium 1-5
Chapter 1
1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Chapter 2
Chapter 2: Hardware information
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.
Chapter 2
ASUS P6X58D Premium 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview
2.2.1 Motherboard layout
Chapter 2
Refer to
2.8 Connectors
connectors.
2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information
for more information about rear panel connectors and internal
2.2.2 Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page
1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)
2. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1
3-pin CHA_FAN2–3, 3-pin PWR_FAN)
3. LGA1366 CPU Socket
4. DDR3 DIMM slots
5. CPU / DRAM Bus / QPI DRAM overvoltage settings (3-pin OV_CPU;
3-pin OV_DRAM_BUS; 3-pin OV_QPI_DRAM)
6. MemOK! switch (MEMOK)
7. Marvell
8. ICH10R Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA1–6 [blue])
9. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
10. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78)
11. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)
12. Onboard Reset switch
13. Onboard Power-on switch
14. Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)
15. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
16. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
®
Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA_6G_1, 7-pin SATA_6G_2 [gray])
2-35
2-33
2-5
2-10
2-22
2-24
2-30
2-29
2-36
2-31
2-32
2-23
2-23
2-32
2-34
2-34
Chapter 2
ASUS P6X58D Premium 2-3
2.2.3 Placement 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.
2.2.4 Screw holes
Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the
chassis.
Chapter 2
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
2.3 Central 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
cap.
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.
Chapter 2
ASUS P6X58D Premium 2-5
2. Press the load lever with your thumb
(A), then move it to the left (B) until it is
released from the retention tab.
3. Lift the load lever in the direction of the
arrow to a 135º angle.
4. Lift the load plate with your thumb and
Chapter 2
forenger to a 100º angle.
5. Remove the PnP cap from the CPU
socket.
To prevent damage to the socket pins,
do not remove the PnP cap unless
you are installing a CPU.
Retention tab
A
B
Load lever
Load plate
4
3
PnP cap
2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information
6. Position the CPU over the socket,
ensuring that the gold triangle is on the
bottom-left corner of the socket, and then
t the socket alignment key into the CPU
notch.
The CPU ts 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.
CPU notch
Alignment key
Gold
triangle
mark
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 nger directly.
8. Close the load plate (A), then push
the load lever (B) until it snaps into the
retention tab.
Chapter 2
A
B
ASUS P6X58D Premium 2-7
2.3.2 Installing 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®-certied
multi-directional heatsink and fan.
®
• Your Intel
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.
LGA1366 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and
requires no tool to install.
Chapter 2
To install the CPU heatsink and fan:
1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed
CPU, ensuring that the four fasteners
match the holes on the motherboard.
2. Push down two fasteners at a time in
a diagonal sequence to secure the
heatsink and fan assembly in place.
Ensure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you install the CPU
fan and heatsink assembly.
A
B
B
A
A
B
B
1
A
1
Orient the heatsink and fan assembly such that the CPU fan cable is closest to the CPU fan
connector.
2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information
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.
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan:
1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the
connector on the motherboard.
2. Rotate each fastener counterclockwise.
3. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a
diagonal sequence to disengage the
heatsink and fan assembly from the
motherboard.
B
A
B
A
Chapter 2
A
B
B
A
4. Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.
ASUS P6X58D Premium 2-9
2.4 System memory
DIMM A1
DIMM B1
DIMM A1
DIMM B1
DIMM C1
DIMM A1
DIMM B1
DIMM A1
DIMM B1
DIMM C1
DIMM A1
DIMM A2
DIMM B2
DIMM B1
DIMM C2
DIMM C1
DIMM A1
DIMM B1
DIMM C1
DIMM A2
DIMM A1
DIMM B1
DIMM C1
DIMM A1
DIMM B1
DIMM C1
DIMM A1
DIMM A2
DIMM B2
DIMM B1
DIMM C2
DIMM C1
2.4.1 Overview
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 gure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:
Chapter 2
Recommended memory congurations
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):
Four DIMMs (triple-channel operation):
Six DIMMs (triple-channel operation):
Due to Intel CPU spec denition, 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
conguration.
2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information
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