Asus P8H61-M LX User Manual

4 (1)

P8H61-M LX R2.0 Series

Motherboard

• P8H61-M LX R2.0

 

• P8H61-M PLUS R2.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

E7999

Second Edition

December 2012

Copyright © 2012 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.

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Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software

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Where the applicable license entitles you to the source code of such software and/or other additional data, you may obtain it for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product, either

(1)for free by downloading it from http://support.asus.com/download

or

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Legal Compliance Dept.

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Beitou, Taipei 112

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In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we can coordinate the terms and cost of shipment with you.

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ii

Contents

Safety information.......................................................................................

vi

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

vii

P8H61-M LX R2.0 Series specifications summary...................................

ix

Chapter 1:

Product introduction

 

1.1

Welcome!.......................................................................................

1-1

1.2

Package contents.........................................................................

1-1

1.3

Special features............................................................................

1-1

 

1.3.1

Product highlights ............................................................

1-1

 

1.3.2

ASUS DIGI+VRM . ...........................................................

1-3

 

1.3.3

Innovative ASUS features ................................................

1-3

1.4

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

1-6

1.5

Motherboard overview.................................................................

1-7

 

1.5.1

Placement direction .........................................................

1-7

 

1.5.2

Screw holes .....................................................................

1-7

 

1.5.3

Motherboard layout ..........................................................

1-8

 

1.5.4

Layout contents . ..............................................................

1-8

1.6

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

1-9

 

1.6.1

Installing the CPU ..........................................................

1-10

 

1.6.2

Installing the CPU heatsink and fan ..............................

1-13

 

1.6.3

Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ..........................

1-14

1.7

System memory..........................................................................

1-15

 

1.7.1

Overview ........................................................................

1-15

 

1.7.2

Memory configurations . .................................................

1-16

 

1.7.3

Installing a DIMM ...........................................................

1-23

 

1.7.4

Removing a DIMM .........................................................

1-23

1.8

Expansion slots..........................................................................

1-24

 

1.8.1

Installing an expansion card ..........................................

1-24

 

1.8.2

Configuring an expansion card ......................................

1-24

 

1.8.3

PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots ...............................................

1-24

 

1.8.4

PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot . ........................................

1-24

1.9

Jumpers

.......................................................................................

1-25

1.10

Connectors..................................................................................

1-26

 

1.10.1 ..................................................

Rear panel connectors

1-26

 

1.10.2 ........................................................

Internal connectors

1-27

1.11

Software ........................................................................support

1-32

iii

Contents

 

1.11.1

Installing an operating system.......................................

1-32

 

1.11.2

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

1-32

Chapter 2:

BIOS information

 

2.1

Managing and updating your BIOS.............................................

2-1

 

2.1.1

ASUS Update utility.........................................................

2-1

 

2.1.2

ASUS EZ Flash 2............................................................

2-2

 

2.1.3

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility.......................................

2-3

 

2.1.4

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

2-4

2.2

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

2-6

2.3

Main menu...................................................................................

2-10

 

2.3.1

System Language [English]...........................................

2-10

 

2.3.2

System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx].......................................

2-10

 

2.3.3

System Time [xx:xx:xx]..................................................

2-10

 

2.3.4

Security..........................................................................

2-10

2.4

Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................

2-13

 

2.4.1

Memory Frequency [Auto].............................................

2-14

 

2.4.2

EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled].............................

2-14

 

2.4.3

OC Tuner.......................................................................

2-14

 

2.4.4

DRAM Timing Control....................................................

2-14

 

2.4.5

CPU Power Management..............................................

2-14

 

2.4.6

DIGI+ VRM....................................................................

2-15

 

2.4.7

CPU Voltage [Offset Mode]............................................

2-17

 

2.4.8

Offset Mode Sign [+]......................................................

2-17

 

2.4.9

iGPU Voltage [Offset Mode]...........................................

2-17

 

2.4.10

iGPU Offset Mode Sign [+]............................................

2-17

 

2.4.11

DRAM Voltage [Auto].....................................................

2-17

 

2.4.12

VCCSA Voltage [Auto]...................................................

2-17

 

2.4.13

PCH Voltage [Auto]........................................................

2-17

 

2.4.14

CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]................................................

2-18

2.5

Advanced menu..........................................................................

2-18

 

2.5.1

CPU Configuration.........................................................

2-18

 

2.5.2

PCH Configuration.........................................................

2-20

 

2.5.3

SATAConfiguration........................................................

2-21

 

2.5.4

SystemAgent Configuration..........................................

2-22

 

2.5.5

USB Configuration.........................................................

2-23

iv

Contents

 

2.5.6

Onboard Devices Configuration....................................

2-23

 

2.5.7

APM...............................................................................

2-24

 

2.5.8

Network Stack...............................................................

2-25

2.6

Monitor menu..............................................................................

2-26

 

2.6.1

CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]......

2-26

 

2.6.2

CPU / Chassis Fan Speed.............................................

2-26

 

2.6.3

CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled].......................................

2-26

 

2.6.4

CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM]..........................

2-27

 

2.6.5

CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage...

2-27

 

2.6.6

Anti Surge Support [Enabled]........................................

2-27

2.7

Boot menu...................................................................................

2-28

 

2.7.1

Bootup NumLock State [On]..........................................

2-28

 

2.7.2

Full Screen Logo [Enabled]...........................................

2-28

 

2.7.3

Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled].......................................

2-28

 

2.7.4

Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]...........................

2-29

 

2.7.5

Setup Mode [EZ Mode]..................................................

2-29

 

2.7.6

UEFI/Legacy Boot [Enable both UEFI and Legacy]......

2-29

 

2.7.7

Boot Option Priorities.....................................................

2-29

 

2.7.8

Boot Override................................................................

2-29

2.8

Tools menu..................................................................................

2-30

 

2.8.1

ASUS EZ Flash Utility....................................................

2-30

 

2.8.2

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

2-30

 

2.8.3

ASUS O.C. Profile.........................................................

2-30

2.9

Exit menu.....................................................................................

2-31

Appendices

Notices.......................................................................................................

A-1

ASUS contact information........................................................................

A-3

Safety information

Electrical safety

To prevent electric shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electric 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 components, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package.

Before using the product, ensure that 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 staple wires away from connectors, slots, sockets, and circuitry.

Avoid dust, humidity, and extreme temperature. Do not place the product in any area where it may be exposed to moisture.

Place the product on a stable surface.

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

vi

About this guide

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

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the supported features of the motherboard.

Chapter 2: BIOS information

This chapter provides a detailed guide to navigating and setting up the BIOS.

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 completing a task.

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

IMPORTANT: Instructions you MUST follow to complete a task.

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

vii

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.

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>

viii

P8H61-M LX R2.0 Series specifications summary

CPU

LGA1155 socket for Intel® Second/Third Generation Core™ i7 /

 

Core™ i5 / Core™ i3/ Pentium® processors

 

Supports 32/22nm CPU

 

Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*

 

*The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 suppport depends on the

 

CPU types.

 

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

Chipset

Memory

Graphics

Expansion slots

Storage

LAN

Audio

USB

Rear panel ports

Intel® H61 Express Chipset

2 x DIMMs, max. 16GB, DDR3 2200(O.C.) / 2133(O.C.) / 2000(O.

C.) / 1866(O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory *

Dual-channel memory architecture

Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)

*DDR3 1600 MHz and higher memory frequency is supported by

Intel® 3rd generation processors.

**Due to the CPU behavior, DDR3 2133/1866 MHz memory module will run at DDR3 2000/1800 MHz frequency.

***Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualified

Vendor List).

****When you install memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows®

32-bit operating system may only recognize less than 3GB. We recommend a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a Windows® 32-bit operating system.

Supports RGB with max. resolution 2048 x1536@75GHz

Intel® Quick Sync Video Technology Support

1 x PCI Express 3.0*/2.0 x16 slot [blue] (at x16 mode) 3 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots

*Intel® Third Generation Core™ processors support PCIe 3.0 speed.

Intel® H61 Express Chipset:

- 4 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors

Realtek® 8111E/8111F PCIe Gigabit LAN controller

ALC887 8-channel High DefinitionAudio CODEC

*Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support an 8-channel audio output.

Intel® H61 Express Chipset:

- 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports onboard, 4 ports at the back panel)

1 x PS/2 keyboard (purple)

1 x PS/2 mouse (green)

1 x D-Sub port

1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

1 x COM port

1 x LPT port

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (black)

3-Jack 8-channel audio I/O ports

(continued on the next page)

ix

P8H61-M LX R2.0 specifications summary

ASUS unique features ASUS DIGI+VRM

-Digital Power Control: Digital Power Design for the CPU and iGPU

-ASUS 3+1+1 Phase Power Design

ASUS EPU

ASUS Exclusive Overclocking

Internal connectors/ switches/ buttons

BIOS features

Manageability

Accessories

Support DVD

Form factor

- EPU

ASUS Exclusive Features

-Network iControl featuring instant network bandwidth domination for the top network program in use

-AI Suite II

-Anti Surge

-Low EMI Solution

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

-ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish heatsink solution

-ASUS Fan Xpert

ASUS EZ DIY

-ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring user-friendly graphics interface

-ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

-ASUS EZ Flash 2

-ASUS My Logo 2

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

2 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports 4 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors

1 x CPU fan connector

1 x Chassis fan connector

1 x Front panel audio connector

1 x S/PDIF Out connector

1 x speaker connector

1 x System panel connector

1 x 24-pin EATX power connector

1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector

64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI v2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS v2.7, ACPI v2.0a, Multi-language BIOS

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

2 x Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s cables

1 x I/O shield

1 x User Manual

1 x Support DVD

Drivers

ASUS Utilities

ASUS Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

MicroATX form factor: 9.6 in x 7.2 in (24.4 cm x 18.3 cm)

* Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Chapter 1

Product introduction

1.1Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® P8H61-M LX R2.0 Series motherboard!

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

Before you start installing the motherboard and adding components, check the items in your package with the list below.

1.2Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard

ASUS P8H61-M LX 2.0 Series motherboard

Cables

2 x Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s cables

Accessories

1 x I/O shield

Application DVD

ASUS motherboard support DVD

Documentation

User Manual

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

1.3Special features

1.3.1Product highlights

Intel® LGA1155 Intel® Second Generation Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 processors

This motherboard supports the Intel® second generation Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 processors in LGA1155 package with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to support 2-channel (2 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 16 PCI Express 2.0 lanes. This provides great graphics performance. Intel® second generation Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 processors are among the most powerful and energy efficient CPUs in the world.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1-1

Intel® H61 Express Chipset

The Intel® H61 Express Chipset is the latest single-chipset design to support the new 1155 socket Intel® Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 second generation processors. It provides improved performance by utilizing serial point-to-point links, which allows increased bandwidth and stability.

Dual-Channel DDR3 2200(O.C.) / 2133 (O.C.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 / 1066MHz support

The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 2200 (O.C.) / 2133 (O.C.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1600 /

1333 / 1066MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest

3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture enlarges the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance.

DDR3 1600 MHz and higher memory frequency is supported by Intel® 3rd generation processors.

Due to the CPU behavior, DDR3 2133/1866 memory modules will run at DDR3

2000/1800 MHz frequency.

PCI Express® 3.0

PCI Express® 3.0 (PCIe 3.0) is the latest PCI Express bus standard with improved encoding schemes that provide twice the performance of the current PCIe 2.0. The total bandwidth for a x16 link reaches a maximum of 32Gb/s, double the 16 Gb/s of PCIe 2.0 (in x16 mode). As such, PCIe 3.0 provides users unprecendented data speeds, combined with the convenience and seamless transition offerred by complete backward compatibility with PCIe 1.0 and PCIe 2.0 devices. PCIe 3.0 will become a must-have feature for users who wish to improve and optimize graphic performance, as well as have the latest technology available to them.

* PCI 3.0 speed is supported by Intel® 3rd generation Core™ processors.

8-channel high definition audio

The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High DefinitionAudio, previously codenamedAzalia) CODEC enables high-quality 192KHz/24-bit audio output and jack-detect feature that automatically detects and identifies what types of peripherals are plugged into the audio I/O jacks and notifies users of inappropriate connection, which means there will be no more confusion of Line-in, Line-out, and Mic jacks.

Gigabit LAN solution

The onboard LAN controller is a highly integrated Gb LAN controller. It is enhanced with anACPI management function to provide efficient power management for advanced operating systems.

1-2

ASUS P8H61-M LX R2.0

100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors (P8H61-M LX R2.0 PLUS R2.0 only)

This motherboard uses all high-quality conductive polymer capacitors for durability, improved lifespan, and enhanced thermal capacity.

1.3.2ASUS DIGI+VRM

Digital Power Control: Digital Power Design for the CPU and iGPU

All-new digital CPU power controls work perfectly together to match digital power signal (SVID) requests from the CPU, with ultra-fast sensing and response efficiently delivering precision power.Accurate delivery reduces waste, and provides more stable CPU Vcore voltages. Users can adjust the CPU and its prcoessor graphics (iGPU) voltages for various overclocking scenarios, with accurate input through UEFI BIOS tuning or the exclusive ASUS interface. This proprietary design increases overclocking headroom to push performance to its full potential.

ASUS EPU

Tap into the world’s first real-time PC power saving chip through a simple oboard switch or AI Suite II utility. Get total system-wide energy optimization by automatically detecting current PC loadings and intelligently moderating power consumption. This also reduces fan noise and extends component longevity.

1.3.3Innovative ASUS features

ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)

The newASUS UEFI BIOS is an Unified Extensible Firmware Interface that offers a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboardonly BIOS control to enable more flexible and convenient mouse input.

Users can easily navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system. It natively supports hard drives larger than

2.2TB in 64-bit, with full storage space utilization, helping deliver far more exciting computing than traditional BIOS version. The exclusive EZ Mode displays frequently-accessed setup info. while the Advanced Mode is

for experienced performance enthusiasts that demand far more intricate system settings.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1-3

ASUS Anti-Surge Protection

This special design prevents expensive devices and the motherboard from damage caused by power surges from switching power supply (PSU).

AI Suite II

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

Fanless Design: stylish heatsink solution

The stylish heatsink features a 0-dB thermal solution that offers users a noiseless PC environment. The beautiful shape of the heatsink design not only provides visual enjoyment for motherboard users, but also lowers the temperature of the chipset and power phase area through high efficient heat-exchange. Combining usability and aesthetics, the ASUS stylish heatpipe will give users an extremely silent and cooling experience with an elegant appearance!

ESD

Protect Your Computer with ESD Guards. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) conditions can happen while plugging or unplugging any USB peripherals-causing damage to the computer. ASUS ESD Guards clamp the ESD voltage and shunt the majority of the ESD current away for a more reliable computing environment.

Low EMI

A special low-radiation design shields you from harmful electromagnetic exposure by eliminating 50% of radiation.

1.Radiation Deduction Design minimizes harmful electromagnetic radiation output with exclusive circuit design to cancel electrical charge.

2.The Radiation Moat Design effectively blocks radiation to prevent discharge spread.

Fan Xpert

ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust the CPU fan speed 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.

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.

1-4

ASUS P8H61-M LX R2.0

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto-recovery tool that allows you to restore a corrupted BIOS file using the bundled support DVD or USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file.

ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based utility.

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.

ErP ready

The motherboard is European Union´s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires products to meet certain energy efficiency requirements in regards to energy consumptions. This is in line with

ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efficient products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1-5

1.4Before 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 disconnected from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.

Standby Power LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down

the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.

SB_PWR

P8H61-M LX R2.0

ON OFF

Standby Power Powered Off

P8H61-M LX R2.0 Onboard LED

1-6

ASUS P8H61-M LX R2.0

1.5Motherboard overview

Study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits before installing the motherboard.

Ensure that you unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1.5.1Placement 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.

1.5.2Screw holes

Secure the motherboard to the chassis using six screws as indicated by the circles in the illustration below.

Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

Place this side towards

the rear of the chassis

P8H61-M LX R2.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1-7

1.5.3Motherboard layout

1

2

3

1

 

4

 

 

 

18.3cm(7.2in)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

KBMS

 

DIGI

 

 

CPU_FAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

+VRM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COM

ATX12V

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LPT

 

 

 

 

 

 

module)

 

module)

 

 

 

 

VGA

 

 

LGA1155

 

 

 

(64bit, 240-pin

 

(64bit, 240-pin

 

 

 

 

USB34

 

 

 

 

 

 

A1

 

B1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DDR3DIMM

 

DDR3DIMM

 

24.4cm(9.6in)

 

 

LAN1_USB12

 

 

 

 

 

 

EATXPWR

 

 

 

RTL

 

Lithium Cell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

 

8111E/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8111F

 

CMOS Power

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHA_FAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUDIO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PCIEX16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P8H61-M LX R2.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Super

PCIEX1_1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/O

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intel®

SATA3G_2

SATA3G_1

 

 

 

 

 

PCIEX1_2

 

 

 

H61

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SATA3G_4

SATA3G_3

 

5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PCIEX1_3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6

 

ALC

SPDIF_OUT

 

 

 

 

 

 

8Mb

 

 

 

 

887

 

USB56

USB78

 

 

F_PANEL

BIOS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CLRTC

 

SB_PWR

 

 

AAFP

 

 

 

 

SPEAKER

 

SPEAKER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12

11

10

 

9

8

7

 

 

 

 

 

1.5.4

Layout contents

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED

Page

 

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED

Page

1.

CPU and chassis fan connectors

1-23

7.

System panel connector (10-1 pin F-PANEL)

1-25

 

(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN)

 

 

 

 

2.

ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR,

1-22

8.

Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)

1-22

 

4-pin ATX12V)

 

 

 

 

3.

Intel® LGA1155 CPU socket

1-8

9.

Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)

1-19

4.

DDR3 DIMM slots

1-13

10. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78)

1-23

5.

Intel® H61 Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connectors

1-24

11.

Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)

1-24

 

(7-pin SATA3G_1/2/3/4)

 

 

 

 

6.

Standby power LED (SB_PWR)

1-1

12.

Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

1-21

1-8

ASUS P8H61-M LX R2.0

1.6Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1155 socket designed for the Intel® Second Generation Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 processors.

P8H61-M LX R2.0

P8H61-M LX R2.0 CPU socket LGA1155

Unplug all power cables 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

LGA1155 socket.

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

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1-9

1.6.1Installing the CPU

To install a CPU:

1.Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

P8H61-M LX R2.0

P8H61-M LX R2.0 CPU socket LGA1155

2.Press the load lever with your thumb (A), and then move it to the right (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 until the load plate is completely lifted.

Load lever

B

Retention tab

1-10

ASUS P8H61-M LX R2.0

Asus P8H61-M LX User Manual

4.Remove the PnP cap from the CPU socket by lifting the tab only.

5.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 keys into the CPU notches.

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!

6.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.

Some heatsinks come with preapplied 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.

PnP cap

CPU notches

Gold

triangle

mark

Alignment keys

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1-11

7.Close the load plate (A), and then push down the load lever (B), ensuring that the front edge of the load plate slides under the retention knob (C).

B

A

C

8.Insert the load lever under the retention tab.

1-12

ASUS P8H61-M LX R2.0

1.6.2Installing the CPU heatsink and fan

The Intel® LGA1155 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® LGA1155 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and requires no tool to install.

Use a LGA1155-compatible CPU heatsink and fan assembly only. The LGA1155 socket is incompatible with the LGA775 and LGA1366 sockets in size and dimension.

If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, ensure that you have properly applied Thermal Interface Material 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:

1.Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, ensuring that the four fasteners match the holes on the motherboard.

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

2.Push down two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink and fan assembly in place.

AB

BA

A

B

B

A

1

1

The type of CPU heatsink and fan assembly may differ, but the installation steps and functions should remain the same. The illustration above is for reference only.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1-13

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

CPU_FAN

P8H61-M LX R2.0

CPU FAN PWM CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWR GND

P8H61-M LX R2.0 CPU fan connector

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

1.6.3Uninstalling 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.

A

B

 

A

B

B

 

B

A

A

 

1-14

ASUS P8H61-M LX R2.0

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