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.
Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software
This product contains copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (“GPL”),
under the Lesser General Public License Version (“LGPL”) and/or other Free Open Source Software
Licenses. Such software in this product is distributed without any warranty to the extent permitted by the
applicable law. Copies of these licenses are included in this product.
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
(2) for the cost of reproduction and shipment, which is dependent on the preferred carrier and the location
where you want to have it shipped to, by sending a request to:
ASUSTeK Computer Inc.
Legal Compliance Dept.
15 Li Te Rd.,
Beitou, Taipei 112
Taiwan
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.
The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY and licensed under the same license as
the corresponding binary/object code.
This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information.
ASUSTeK is eager to duly provide complete source code as required under various Free Open Source
Software licenses. If however you encounter any problems in obtaining the full corresponding source
code we would be much obliged if you give us a notication to the email address gpl@asus.com, stating
the product and describing the problem (please DO NOT send large attachments such as source code
archives, etc. to this email address).
ii
Contents
Safety information ...................................................................................... vi
About this guide ........................................................................................ vii
P8H61-MX Series specications summary .............................................. ix
Chapter 1
Product introduction
1.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-1
ASUS contact information .......................................................................A-3
2-24
2-25
2-25
2-25
2-25
2-26
2-26
2-26
2-26
2-26
2-26
2-27
2-27
2-27
2-27
2-28
v
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 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 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 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.
vi
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 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
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.
a task.
vii
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.
Typography
Bold textIndicates a menu or an item to select.
Italic
sUsed to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key>Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3>If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter
or Return key.
key names are linked with a plus sign (+). Example:
<Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Del>
*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.
**DDR3 1600 MHz and higher memory frequency is supported by
Intel® 3rd generation processors.
***Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualied
Vendor List).
DVI with Max. Resolution: 1920 x 1200 @60Hz
D-SUB with Max. Resolution: 2048 x 1536 @75Hz
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots
*PCIe 3.0 speed is supported by Intel® 3rd generation processors.
Intel® H61 Express Chipset:
- 4 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors
Realtek® 8111F-VB-CG Gigabit LAN controller
- Supports Multi-Streaming
Intel® H61 Express Chipset
- 10 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at rear)
P8H61-MX USB3
Intel® H61 Express Chipset
- 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 4 ports at rear)
ASMedia® ASM1042 controller
- 2 x USB 3.0 ports (2 ports at rear)
(continued on the next page)
ix
P8H61-MX Series specications summary
ASUS unique features ASUS MyLogo 2™
ASUS Anti-Surge Protection
ASUS UEFI BIOS
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS FanXpert
ASUS AI Charger (P8H61-MX R2.0 only)
ASUS AI Charger+ (P8H61-MX USB3 only)
ASUS Q-Fan 2
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS GPU Boost
Rear panel ports1 x PS/2 keyboard / mouse combo port
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 Speaker header
1 x Front panel header
1 x 24-pin ATX power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3, SMBIOS v2.6, ACPI v2.0a,
Multi-language BIOS
WOL, PME Wake Up, PXE
1 x I/O shield
1 x User Manual
1 x Support DVD
ASUS Utilities
ASUS Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
uATX form factor: 9.6 in x 7.2 in (24.4 cm x 18.3 cm)
* Specications are subject to change without notice.
x
Chapter 1
SB_PWR
ON
Standby Power Powered Off
OFF
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series Onboard LED
Product introduction
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P8H61-MX Series motherboard!
Before you start installing the motherboard and adding hardware components, check the
items in your motherboard package. Refer to page x for the list of included accessories.
• If any of the items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
• ASUS P8H61-MX Series motherboards include P8H61-MX R2.0 and P8H61-MX USB3
models. The layout varies between the two models. The layout illustrations in this user
manual are for P8H61-MX R2.0 only.
1.1 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.
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.
1-1Chapter 1: Product introduction
P8H61-MX R2.0
1.2 Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the conguration of your chassis to ensure that the
motherboard ts.
Unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
1.2.1 Placement direction
When installing the motherboard, 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.
1.2.2 Screw holes
Place six 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.
3. Intel® LGA1155 CPU socket1-49.USB connectors (USB78, USB910)1-19
4. DDR3 DIMM slots1-910. Standby power LED (SB_PWR)1-1
Intel® H61 Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connectors
5.
(7-pin SATA3G_1/2/3/4)
6.System panel connector (10-1 pin PANEL)1-21
1-19 7.Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)1-20
1-18 8.Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)1-15
1-20 11. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-17
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-4
1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
A
B
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series CPU socket LGA1155
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1155 socket designed for Intel®
processors.
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.
1.3.1 Installing the CPU
To install a CPU:
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
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.
Load lever
Retention tab
1-5Chapter 1: Product introduction
3. Lift the load lever in the direction of the
arrow until the load plate is completely
lifted.
4. Remove the PnP cap from the CPU
socket by lifting the tab only.
Load plate
PnP cap
5. 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 keys into
the CPU notches.
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!
CPU notches
Gold
triangle
mark
Alignment keys
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-6
B
A
C
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.
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).
8. Insert the load lever under the retention
tab.
1-7Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.3.2 Installing 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®-certied
multi-directional heatsink and fan.
• Your Intel
• Use an LGA1155-compatible CPU heatsink and fan assembly only. The LGA1155 socket
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.
®
LGA1155 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and
requires no tool to install.
is incompatible with the LGA775 and LGA1366 sockets in size and dimension.
A
B
B
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.
A
B
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.
B
A
A
1
1
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-8
3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.
CPU_FAN
CPU FAN PWM
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWR
GND
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series CPU fan connector
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if
you fail to plug this connector.
1.3.3 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.
A
B
B
A
A
B
B
A
1-9Chapter 1: Product introduction
4. Carefully remove the heatsink and fan
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets
DIMM_A1
DIMM_B1
assembly from the motherboard.
5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure
correct orientation when reinstalling.
1.4 System memory
1.4.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with two 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:
ChannelSockets
Channel ADIMM_A1
Channel BDIMM_B1
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-10
1.4.2 Memory congurations
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM
sockets.
• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conguration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimal compatibility, we
recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or date code (D/C)
from the same vendor. Check with the retailer to get the correct memory modules.
• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
- Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows
- Install a 64-bit Windows® OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the
motherboard.
• This motherboard does not support DIMMs that use 512Mb (64MB) chips or less.
• Memory modules with memory frequency higher than 2133 MHz and its corresponding
timing or the loaded X.M.P. Prole is not the JEDEC memory standard. The stability
and compatibility of these memory modules depend on the CPU’s capabilities and other
installed devices.
• The maximum 16GB memory capacity can be supported with 8GB or above DIMMs.
ASUS will update the memory QVL once the DIMMs are available in the market.
• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked or at a
higher frequency, refer to section 2.4 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory frequency
adjustment.
• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (2 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
®
OS, when you install 4GB
®
OS.
P8H61-MX Series Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3-1066 MHz capability
VendorsPart No.Size
CrucialCT12864BA1067.8FF1GB SS Micron9GF22D9KPT7-••
CrucialCT25664BA1067.16FF2GB DS Micron9HF22D9KPT7-••
ELPIDAEBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F1GB SS ELPIDAJ1108EDSE-DJ-F -1.35V(low voltage)••
ELPIDAEBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F2GB DS ELPIDAJ1108EDSE-DJ-F -1.35V(low voltage)••
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/1G(low prole) 1GB SS ELPIDAJ1108BFSE-DJ-F 71.5V••
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G2GB DS ELPIDAJ1108BDSE-DJ-F 71.5V••
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/4G4GB DS HynixH5TQ2G83AFR 71.5V••
MicronMT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F11GB SS Micron9GF22D9KPT7-••
MicronMT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F12GB DS Micron9HF22D9KPT7-••
SS/
Chip Brand Chip NO.Timing Voltage
DS
(continued on the next page)
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
A*B*
1-11Chapter 1: Product introduction
DDR3-1333 MHz capability
1.25V-
1.35V(low
voltage)
1.35V(low
voltage)
1.35V(low
voltage)
1.3V(low
voltage)
1.35V(low
voltage)
1.35V(low
voltage)
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
A*B*
••
••
••
••
••
••
VendorsPart No.Size
A-DataAD31333001GOU1GBSS A-Data
A-DataAD63I1B0823EV2GBSS A-Data3CCA-1509A--••
A-DataAD31333G001GOU3GB(3 x 1GB) SS --8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85V••
A-DataAXDU1333GC2G9-2G(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) SS --9-9-9-24
MicronMT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D11GBSS MicronOJD12D9LGQ--••
MicronMT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F11GBSS Micron9FF22D9KPT9-••
MicronMT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D12GBSS MicronOJD12D9LGK--••
MicronMT16JTF25664AZ-1G4F12GBDS Micron9KF27D9KPT9-••
MicronMT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D14GBDS MicronOLD22D9LGK--••
OCZOCZ3F13334GK4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-20 1.7V••
OCZOCZ3P13334GK4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --7-7-7-20 1.8V•
OCZOCZ3X13334GK(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --7-7-7-20 1.75V••
OCZOCZ3G1333LV6GK6GB(3 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-20 1.65V••
OCZOCZ3P1333LV6GK6GB(3 x 2GB) DS --7-7-7-20 1.65V••
OCZOCZ3X1333LV6GK(XMP)6GB(3 x 2GB) DS --8-8-8-20 1.60V•
PSCAL7F8G73F-DJ21GBSS PSCA3P1GF3FGF--••
PSCAL8F8G73F-DJ22GBDS PSCA3P1GF3FGF--••
SAMSUNG M378B2873FHS-CH91GBSS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F--••
SAMSUNG M378B5773DH0-CH92GBSS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846D--••
SAMSUNG M378B5673FH0-CH92GBDS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F--••
SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH94GBDS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C--••
Super Talent W1333UA1GH1GBSS HynixH5TQ1G83TFR9-••
Super Talent W1333X2G8(XMP)1GBSS --8-••
Super Talent W1333UB2GS2GBDS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F9-••
Super Talent W1333UB4GS4GBDS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C--••
Super Talent W1333UX6GM6GB(3x 2GB) DS Micron0BF27D9KPT9-9-9-24 1.5V••
Transcend JM1333KLN-2G2GBSS Micron0YD77D9LGK--••
Transcend JM1333KLN-2G2GBSS HynixH5TQ2G83BZRH9C--••
Transcend JM1333KLU-2G2GBDS Transcend TK243PDF3--••
Transcend TS256MLK64V3U2GBDS Micron9GF27D9KPT--••
4GBDS KINGSTON D2568JENCPGD9U-1.5V••
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO.Timing Voltage
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
A*B*
DDR3-1600 MHz capability
DIMM socket
VendorsPart No.Size
A-DATAAM2U16BC2P12GBSSA-DATA 3CCD-1509A EL1126T --··
A-DATAAD31600E001GM(O)U3K3GB(3 x 1GB) SS --8-8-8-241.65V-1.85V
A-DATAAX3U1600XB2G79-2X(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --7-9-7-211.55V-1.75V ··
A-DATAAM2U16BC4P24GBDS A-DATA 3CCD-1509A EL1126T --··
A-DATAAX3U1600GC4G9-2G(XMP)8GB(2 x 4GB) DS --9-9-9-241.55V-1.75V ··
A-DATAAX3U1600XC4G79-2X(XMP)8GB(2 x 4GB) DS --7-9-7-211.55V-1.75V ··
CORSAIR TR3X3G1600C8D(XMP)3GB(3 x 1GB) SS --8-8-8-241.65V··
CORSAIR CMD12GX3M6A1600C8(XMP) 12GB(6x2GB) DS --8-8-8-241.65V··
CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M4X1600C10(XMP) 32GB(8GBx4) DS --10-10-10-27 1.50V··
CORSAIR CMP4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --8-8-8-241.65V·
CORSAIR CMP4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-241.65V··
CORSAIR CMP4GX3M2C1600C7(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --7-8-7-201.65V··
CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-241.65V··
CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-241.65V·
CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8 G(XMP)6GB(3 x 2GB) DS --8-8-8-241.65V··
CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8D G(XMP)6GB(3 x 2GB) DS --8-8-8-241.65V··
CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C9 G(XMP)6GB(3 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-241.65V··
CORSAIR CMP8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 8GB(2 x 4GB) DS --9-9-9-241.65V··
CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1600C7R(XMP) 8GB(2 x 4GB) DS --7-8-7-201.50V·
CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-241.65V··
CrucialBL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS ----··
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO.TimingVoltage
support
(optional)
1DIMM 2DIMM
(continued on the next page)
1-13Chapter 1: Product introduction
DDR3-1600 MHz capability
VendorsPart NO.SizeSS/DSChip
G.SKILLF3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ(XMP)2GB(2 x 1GB) SS --9-9-9-241.5V··
G.SKILLF3-12800CL7D-4GBRH(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) SS --7-7-7-241.6V··
G.SKILLF3-12800CL7D-4GBECO(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --7-7-8-24XMP
G.SKILLF3-12800CL7D-4GBRM(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --7-8-7-241.6V··
G.SKILLF3-12800CL8D-4GBRM(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --8-8-8-241.60V·
G.SKILLF3-12800CL9D-4GBECO(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-24XMP
G.SKILLF3-12800CL9D-4GBRL(XMP)4GB(2 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-241.5V··
G.SKILLF3-12800CL9T-6GBNQ(XMP)6GB(3 x 2GB) DS --9-9-9-24 1.5V~1.6V··
G.SKILLF3-12800CL7D-8GBRH(XMP)8GB(2 x 4GB) DS --7-8-7-241.6V··
G.SKILLF3-12800CL8D-8GBECO(XMP)8GB(2 x 4GB) DS --8-8-8-24XMP
G.SKILLF3-12800CL9D-8GBRL(XMP)8GB(2 x 4GB) DS --9-9-9-241.5V··
GEILGET316GB1600C9QC(XMP)16GB ( 4x
• A*: Supports one module inserted into either slot as single-channel memory conguration.
• B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into both the blue slots as one pair of dual-
channel memory conguration.
support
(optional)
1DIMM
Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest QVL.
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-16
1.4.3 Installing a DIMM
Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components.
Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.
1. Press the retaining clips outward to
unlock a DIMM socket.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that
the notch on the DIMM matches the
DIMM slot key on the socket.
A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into
a socket in the wrong direction to avoid damaging the DIMM.
3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket
until the retaining clips snap back in place
and the DIMM is properly seated.
1.4.4 Removing a DIMM
To remove a DIMM:
1. Simultaneously press the retaining clips
outward to unlock the DIMM.
2
DIMM notch
1
Unlocked retaining clip
DIMM slot key
3
Locked Retaining Clip
2
Support the DIMM lightly with your
ngers when pressing the retaining
clips. The DIMM might get damaged
when it ips out with extra force.
2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.
1
DIMM notch
1-17Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.5 Expansion slots
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe
the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
1.5.1 Installing an expansion card
To install an expansion card:
1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and
make the necessary hardware settings for the card.
2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).
3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later
use.
4. Align the card connector with the slot and press rmly until the card is completely
seated on the slot.
5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.
6. Replace the system cover.
1.5.2 Conguring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings.
1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for
information on BIOS setup.
2. Assign an IRQ to the card.
3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that
the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conicts will arise between the two PCI
groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.
1.5.3 PCI Express x1 slot
This motherboard supports PCI Express 2.0 x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards
that comply with the PCI Express specications.
1.5.4 PCI Express x16 slot
This motherboard has a PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot that supports PCI Express x16 3.0/2.0
graphic cards complying with the PCI Express specications.
PCIe 3.0 speed is supported by Intel® 3rd generation processors.
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-18
1.6 Jumpers
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series Clear RTC RAM
1 2
2 3
Normal
(Default)
Clear RTC
CLRTC
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can
clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing
the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in
CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM:
1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3
for about 5-10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the <
data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper again to
clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the battery.
1-19Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.7 Connectors
3 42
57698
1
10
1.7.1 Rear panel connectors
1. PS/2 Keyboard / Mouse Combo port. This port is for a PS/2 keyboard or PS/2
mouse.
2. LAN (RJ-45) port.
through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.
LAN port LED indications
Activity/Link LEDSpeed LED
StatusDescriptionStatusDescription
OFFNo linkOFF10Mbps connection
ORANGELinkedORANGE100Mbps connection
BLINKINGData activityGREEN1Gbps connection
3.Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other
audio sources.
4. Line Out port (lime).
8-channel congurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.
5. Microphone port (pink).
This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN)
LED
LAN port
Speed
LED
Activity Link
This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In the 4, 6, and
This port connects to a microphone.
Refer to the audio conguration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or
8-channel conguration.
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration
PortHeadset 2-channel4-channel6-channel8-channel
Light Blue (Rear panel)Line InRear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out
Lime (Rear panel)Line OutFront Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Use a chassis with an HD audio module in the front panel to support 8-channel audio
output.
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-20
6. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series Front panel audio connector
AAFP
AGNDNCSENSE1_RETUR
SENSE2_RETUR
PORT1 L
PORT1 R
PORT2 R
SENSE_SEND
PORT2 L
HD-audio-compliant
pin definition
PIN 1
AGNDNCNC
NC
MIC2
MICPWR
Line out_R
NC
Line out_L
Legacy AC’97
compliant definition
2.0/1.1 devices.
7. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4 (P8H61-MX R2.0 only)
. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus
(USB) ports are for USB 2.0 devices.
USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 (P8H61-MX USB3 only). These two 9-pin Universal Serial Bus
(USB) ports are for USB 3.0 devices.
• DO NOT connect a keyboard / mouse to any USB 3.0 port when installing Windows®
operating system.
• Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under Windows
®
OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation.
• USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only.
• We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster
and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.
8. VGA port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices.
9. DVI-D port.
This port is for any DVI-D compatible device. DVI-D can’t be converted to
output RGB Signal to CRT and isn’t compatible with DVI-I.
10. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6
. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB
2.0/1.1 devices.
1.7.2 Internal connectors
1. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports
either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel
audio I/O module cable to this connector.
1-21Chapter 1: Product introduction
• We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series ATX power connectors
EATXPWR
PIN 1
GND
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
-5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
PSON#
GND
-12 Volts
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
+12 Volts
+12 Volts
+5V Standby
Power OK
GND
+5 Volts
GND
+5 Volts
GND
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
EATX12V
PIN 1
+12V DC
+12V DC
GND
GND
connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-denition audio capability.
•
If you want to connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector, set
the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]. If you want to connect an AC'97
front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this
connector is set to [HD]. See section 2.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguration for details.
2. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are
designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and
push down rmly until the connectors completely t.
• For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU)
that complies with ATX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum
power of 350 W.
•
DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12V power plug. Otherwise, the system will
not boot up.
• We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when conguring a
system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may
not boot up if the power is inadequate.
•
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-22
3. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN)
CPU_FAN
CPU FAN PWM
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWR
GND
Rotation
+12V
GND
P8H61-MX Series Fan connectors
CHA_FAN
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series USB2.0 connectors
PIN 1
USB+5V
USB_P6-
USB_P6+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P5-
USB_P5+
GND
USB78USB910
PIN 1
USB+5V
USB_P8-
USB_P8+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P7-
USB_P7+
GND
Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the
black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air ow inside the
system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place
jumper caps on the fan connectors!
The CPU_FAN connector supports a CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power.
4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910)
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of
these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system
chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specication that supports up to
480 Mbps connection speed.
1-23Chapter 1: Product introduction
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
SATA3G_3
GND
RSATA_TXP3
RSATA_TXN3
GND
RSATA_RXN3
RSATA_RXP3
GND
GND
RSATA_RXP4
RSATA_RXN4
GND
RSATA_TXN4
RSATA_TXP4
GND
SATA3G_4
SATA3G_1
GND
RSATA_TXP1
RSATA_TXN1
GND
RSATA_RXN1
RSATA_RXP1
GND
GND
RSATA_RXP2
RSATA_RXN2
GND
RSATA_TXN2
RSATA_TXP2
GND
SATA3G_2
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series Intel® SATA 3.0Gb/s connectors
motherboard!
The USB module cable is purchased separately.
5. Intel® H61 Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_1~4)
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical drives
via Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s signal cables.
• You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later version before using Serial ATA
hard disk drives.
• Due to H61 Chipset limitation, AHCI Mode only works on Windows
Please use IDE Mode on Windows® XP.
• [IDE] is the default SATA type. Under Windows
®
XP, there is no need to change the
SATA type.
• To congure the SATA type in BIOS, click
Advanced Mode > Advanced tab > SATA
Conguration > SATA Mode Selection.
• When using hot-plug and NCQ on Windows
®
Vista / Windows® 7, set the SATA Mode
Selection item in the BIOS to [AHCI]. See section 2.5.3 SATA Conguration for details.
®
Vista / Windows® 7.
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-24
6. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)
P8H61-MX R2.0
PIN 1
PWR BTN
PLED+
PLED-
PWR
GND
HD_LED+
HD_LED-
Ground
Reset
F_PANEL
PWR LED
+HD_LED RESET
P8H61-MX Series System panel connector
P8H61-MX R2.0
P8H61-MX Series Speaker Out Connector
+5V
GND
GND
Speaker Out
SPEAKER
PIN 1
The 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
7. System panel connector (10-1 pin PANEL)
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.
• System power LED (2-pin PLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED
cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system
power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
• Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin +HDLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable
to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or ashes when data is read from or written to
the HDD.
• Power/Soft-off button (2-pin PWRBTN)
This 2-pin connector is for the system power button.
• Reset button (2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without
turning off the system power.
1-25Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.8 Software support
1.8.1 Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows® XP / Vista / 7 Operating Systems (OS). Always install
the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.
• Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for
detailed information.
• Ensure that you install Windows
Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and
system stability.
1.8.2 Support DVD information
The Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software
applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.
The contents of the Support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the
ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates.
To run the Support DVD
Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. If Autorun is enabled in your computer, the
DVD automatically displays the Specials screen. Click Drivers, Utilities, Manual, Contact, and
Specials tabs to display their respective menus.
The following screen is for reference only.
®
XP Service Pack 3 or later versions / Windows® Vista
Click an item to install
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the Support DVD to
locate the le ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run
the DVD.
Click an icon
to display
Support DVD/
motherboard
information
ASUS P8H61-MX Series1-26
Chapter 2
BIOS information
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a USB ash disk in case you need to
restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update
utility.
2.1.1 ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard
BIOS in a Windows® environment.
• ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet
Service Provider (ISP).
• This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
Installing ASUS Update
To install ASUS Update:
1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The
2. Click the
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Utilities tab, then click AI Suite II.
Drivers menu appears.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS
To update the BIOS:
1. From the Windows
X.XX.XX to launch the AI Suite II utility. The AI Suite II Quick Bar appears.
2. Click the
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-1
Update button from the Quick Bar, and then click ASUS Update from the
popup menu. The ASUS Update main screen appears. From the list, select either of
the following methods:
Updating from the Internet
a. Select Update BIOS from the Internet, then click Next.
b. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafc, then click Next.
c. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download then click
Next.
®
desktop, click Start > Programs > ASUS > AI Suite II > AI Suite II
The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update
the utility to avail all its features.
Updating from a BIOS file
a. Select Update BIOS from le, then click Next.
b. Locate the BIOS le from the Open window, then click
Open.
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the update process.
2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based
utility.
Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website at
www.asus.com.
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:
1. Insert the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS le into the USB port.
2. Enter the
ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.
Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select
Exit
File Info
MODEL: VER: DATE
Help Info
[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/PageUp/PageDown/Home/End] Move [Esc] Exit
2-2ASUS P8H61-MX Series
3. Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive eld.
4. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to nd the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS,
and then press <Enter>.
5. Press <Tab> to switch to the
Folder Info eld.
6. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to nd the BIOS le, and then press <Enter> to perform
the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.
• This function supports USB ash disks formatted using FAT 16/32 format on a single
partition.
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!
2.1.3 ASUS BIOS Updater
The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update the BIOS in a DOS environment. This utility
also allows you to copy the current BIOS le for use as a backup when the BIOS fails or gets
corrupted during the updating process.
The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may
not be same as shown.
Before updating BIOS
1. Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB ash drive formatted using
FAT16/32 on a single partition.
2. Download the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at
http://support.asus.com and save them on the USB ash drive.
NTFS is not supported under a DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS le and BIOS
Updater to a hard disk drive or USB ash drive formatted using NTFS.
3. Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).
Booting the system in DOS environment
1. Insert the USB ash drive with the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater into the USB port.
2. Boot up your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to access the
BIOS Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and
select the optical drive as the boot device.
Please select boot device:
SATA: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
USB XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
UEFI: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Enter Setup
↑and ↓ to move selection
ENTER to select boot device
ESC to boot using defaults
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-3
3. When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by
pressing the item number.
4. At the FreeDOS prompt, type
d: and press <Enter> to switch the disk from
Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB ash drive).
Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!
C:\>d:
D:\>
Updating the BIOS le
To update the BIOS le using BIOS Updater
1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type
D:\>bupdater /pc /g
2. The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18
bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>.
Current ROM
BOARD: P8H61-MX R2.0
VER: 0401
DATE: 02/16/2012
PATH: A:\
A:
Note
[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit
P8H61-MX-R2-SI-0401 4194304 2012-03-12
17:30:48
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
3. Press <Tab> to switch between screen elds and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys
to select the BIOS le and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS le
and prompts you to conrm BIOS update.
Are you sure to update BIOS?
YesNo
2-4ASUS P8H61-MX Series
4. Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS
Updater. Restart your computer.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!
• For BIOS Updater version 1.04 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS prompt
after updating BIOS.
• Load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the
Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. Refer to section 2.9 Exit menu for
details.
• Reconnect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS le if you have
disconnected them.
2.2 BIOS setup program
Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or congure its parameters. The BIOS
screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup
program.
Entering BIOS Setup at startup
To enter BIOS Setup at startup:
• Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>,
POST continues with its routines.
Entering BIOS Setup after POST
To enter BIOS Setup after POST:
• Press
• Press the reset button on the system chassis.
• Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you
<Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.
failed to enter BIOS Setup using the rst two options.
Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force reset from
a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We recommend you
always shut down the system properly from the operating system.
• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may
not exactly match what you see on your screen.
• Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS le for this
motherboard.
• Connect a USB mouse if you want to use the mouse to control the BIOS setup program.
• If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 2.9 Exit Menu for details.
• If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and
reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 1.6 Jumpers for information on
how to erase the RTC RAM.
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-5
BIOS menu screen
The BIOS setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.
You can change modes from the Exit menu or from the Exit/Advanced Mode button in the
EZ Mode/Advanced Mode screen.
EZ Mode
By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ
Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select
the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access the
Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode or press Esc,
then select Advanced Mode. You can also press F7 for the advanced BIOS settings.
The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the
Setup Mode item in section 2.7 Boot menu for details.
Displays the CPU/
motherboard temperature,
CPU voltage output, and
CPU/chassis fan speed
Selects the boot
device priority
Displays the system properties of the
selected mode on the right hand side
Selects the display
language of the BIOS
setup program
Silent modeStandard mode
Exits the BIOS setup program without
saving the changes, saves the changes
and resets the system, or enters the
Advanced Mode
Loads optimized
default
Selects the boot
device priority
Turbo mode
• The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.
• The
Boot Menu(F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the
system.
2-6ASUS P8H61-MX Series
Advanced Mode
The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to congure
the BIOS settings. The gure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the
following sections for the detailed congurations.
To access the EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode.
Menu barMenu itemsBack button
Submenu itemPop-up windowNavigation keys
Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Conguration
elds
Scroll bar
General help
MainFor changing the basic system conguration
Ai TweakerFor changing the overclocking settings
AdvancedFor changing the advanced system settings
MonitorFor displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings
BootFor changing the system boot conguration
ToolFor conguring options for special functions
ExitFor selecting the exit options and loading default settings
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-7
Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example,
selecting Main shows the Main menu items.
The other items (Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have
their respective menu items.
Back button
This button appears when entering a submenu. Press <Esc> or use the USB mouse to click
this button to return to the previous menu screen.
Submenu items
A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a
submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.
Pop-up window
Select a menu item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the conguration
options for that item.
Scroll bar
A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not t on
the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the
other items on the screen.
Navigation keys
At the bottom right corner of the menu screen are the navigation keys for the BIOS setup
program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.
Conguration elds
These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-congurable, you can
change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not
user-congurable.
A congurable eld is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a eld, select it and
press <Enter> to display a list of options.
2-8ASUS P8H61-MX Series
2.3 Main menu
The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup
program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and
allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings.
2.3.1 System Language [English]
Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Conguration options:
[English] [Español] [русский]
2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
Allows you to set the system date.
2.3.3 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
Allows you to set the system time.
2.3.4 Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.
• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)
RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.6 Jumpers for information on how to
erase the RTC RAM.
• The
Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default Not
Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed.
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-9
Administrator Password
If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator
password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to see or change only
selected elds in the BIOS setup program.
To set an administrator password:
1. Select the
2. From the
3. Conrm the password when prompted.
To change an administrator password:
1. Select the
2. From the
<Enter>.
3. From the
4. Conrm the password when prompted.
To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator
password, but press <Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear
the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press
Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.
User Password
If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.
The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set
a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a user password:
1. Select the
2. From the
3. Conrm the password when prompted.
To change a user password:
1. Select the
2. From the
<Enter>.
3. From the
4. Conrm the password when prompted.
User Password item and press <Enter>.
Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
User Password item and press <Enter>.
Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press
Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.
To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press
<Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear the password, the
User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
2-10ASUS P8H61-MX Series
2.4 Ai Tweaker menu
The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related items.
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect eld
values can cause the system to malfunction.
• The conguration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model
you installed on the motherboard.
• The item Ai Overclock Tuner will be displayed on the Ai Tweaker menu when an X.M.P.
memory module is installed on the motherboard
Target CPU Turbo-Mode Speed : xxxxMHz
Displays the current CPU Turbo-Mode speed.
Target DRAM Speed : xxxxMHz
Displays the current DRAM speed.
2.4.1 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]
Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal
frequency. Conguration options:
[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.
[X.M.P.] If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Prole
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-11
(X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the proles supported by your
memory modules for optimizing system performance.
2.4.2 ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Enabled]
Allows you to set the memory frequency mode under XMP/Manual/User for maximum
Allows you to set the memory operating frequency. Conguration options: [Auto] [DDR3800MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz] [DDR3-1333MHz] [DDR3-1600MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR32133MHz] [DDR3-2400MHz]
Memory frequency options depend on installed CPU. The conguration options listed
above are for a Sandy Bridge CPU.
Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default setting.
2.4.4 iGPU Max. Frequency [Auto]
[Auto] The iGPU frequency may be optimized depending on the system loading.
[Manual] The input value is the optimal iGPU frequency. However, the frequency may
2.4.5 GPU Boost [OK]
[OK] Select [OK] to automatically optimize the iGPU frequency.
[Cancel] Select [Cancel] to use a xed iGPU frequency.
vary depending on the system loading.
2.4.6 DRAM Timing Control
The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+>
and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard
and press <Enter>.
Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default settings.
2-12ASUS P8H61-MX Series
2.4.7 CPU Power Management
The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features.
CPU Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to manually adjust the maximum non-turbo CPU ratio. Use <+> and <->
keys or the numeric keypad to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according
to your CPU model.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).
[Disabled] Disables this function.
[Enabled] The operating system dynamically adjusts the processor voltage and
Turbo Mode [Enabled]
This item appears only when you set the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology item
to [Enabled].
[Enabled] Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specic
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Long Duration Power Limit [Auto]
Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.
Long Duration Maintained [Auto]
Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.
Short Duration Power Limit [Auto]
Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.
Primary Plane Current Limit [Auto]
Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.
Secondary Plane Current Limit [Auto]
Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.
core frequency which may result in increased average consumption
and decrease average heat production.
conditions.
The following items appear only when you set both the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep
Technology and Turbo Mode items to [Enabled].
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-13
2.5 Advanced menu
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system
devices.
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect eld values
can cause the system to malfunction.
2-14ASUS P8H61-MX Series
2.5.1 CPU Conguration
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically
detects.
The items shown in submenu may be different due to the CPU you installed.
Scroll down to display the following items:
Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]
[Enabled] Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down.
[Disabled] Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.
Active Processor Cores [All]
Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.
Conguration options: [All] [1] [2] [3]
Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]
[Enabled] Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs
[Disabled] Disables this function.
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-15
with extended CPUID functions.
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]
[Enabled] Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.
[Disabled] Forces the XD feature ag to always return to zero (0).
Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]
[Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately
[Disabled] Disables this function.
and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several
systems.
Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]
[Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately
[Disabled] Disables this function.
and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several
systems.
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]
[Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to perform adjacent cache line prefetching.
[Disabled] Disables this function.
CPU Power Management Conguration
CPU Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the BCLK Frequency. Use
<+> and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your
CPU model.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).
[Disabled] The CPU runs at its default speed.
[Enabled] The operating system controls the CPU speed.
Turbo Mode [Enabled]
This item appears only when you set the Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology
item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable or disable the Intel® Turbo Mode
Technology.
[Enabled] Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specic
[Disabled] Disables this function.
CPU C1E [Auto]
[Enabled] Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order
[Disabled] Disables this function.
CPU C3 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS.
CPU C6 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS.
condition.
to enable the Enhanced Halt State.
2-16ASUS P8H61-MX Series
2.5.2 PCH Conguration
High Precision Timer [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer.
Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology
Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology.Conguration options:
[Enabled] [Disabled]
The following three items appear only when you set the Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology to [Enabled].
Entry on S3 RTC Wake [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the iFFS invocation upon S3 RTC wake.
Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Entry After [10 Minutes]
This item appears only when you set the Entry on S3 RTC Wake to [Enabled]
and allows you to set the RTC wake timer at S3 entry. Conguration options:
Allows you to enable or disable the Active Page Threshold Support. Conguration
options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Active Memory Threshold [x]
This item appears only when you set the Active Page Threshold Support to
[Enabled] and allows you to set the Active Memory Threshold. When the partition
size is larger than the Active Page Threshold size, the system will try to support
the Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology. When the item is set to zero, the system
automatically checks whether the partition size is enough at S3 entry. Key in the
desired value using the numeric keypad.
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-17
Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology
ISCT Conguration [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the ISCT conguration. Conguration options: [Enabled]
[Disabled]
2.5.3 SATA Conguration
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The
SATA Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA
port.
SATA Mode Selection [IDE Mode]
Allows you to set the SATA conguration.
[IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives
[AHCI Mode] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use
[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.
S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled]
S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When
read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning
messages during the POST. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
as Parallel ATA physical storage devices.
the AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the
onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that
increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the
drive to internally optimize the order of commands.
• Due to H61 Chipset limitation, AHCI Mode only works on Windows® Vista / Windows® 7.
Please use IDE Mode on Windows® XP.
• [IDE] is the default SATA Mode Selection. Under Windows
change the SATA Mode.
®
XP, there is no need to
Hot Plug [Disabled]
This item only appears when you set the SATA Mode Selection item to [AHCI] and allows
you to enable or disable the hot-plug support for each SATA port. Conguration options:
[Enabled] [Disabled]
2.5.4 System Agent Conguration
Memory Remap Feature [Enabled]
[Enabled] Allow you to enable remapping the memory above 4GB.
[Disabled] Disables this function.
2-18ASUS P8H61-MX Series
Graphics Conguration
Primary Display [Auto]
Allows you to decide which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.
Conguration options: [Auto] [iGPU] [PCIE]
iGPU Memory [Auto]
Allows you to set the iGPU memory size. Conguration options: [Auto] [32M] [64M]
[96M] [128M] ~ [448M] [480M] [512M] [1024M]
Render Standby [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable Render Standby by internal graphics devices.
Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the internal graphics device’s multi-monitor support for
add-on VGA devices. And the memory size for internal graphics device will keep 64MB.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.5.5 USB Conguration
The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.
The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the
item shows None.
Legacy USB Support [Enabled]
[Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).
[Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.
[Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If
Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled] (P8H61-MX USB3 only)
[Enabled] Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating systems
[Disabled] Disables the function.
EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]
[Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off
[Disabled] Disables the function.
detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is
detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.
(OS).
feature.
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-19
2.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguration
HD Audio Controller [Enabled]
[Enabled] Enables the High Denition Audio Controller.
[Disabled] Disables the controller.
The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller item to
[Enabled].
Front Panel Type [HD]
Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-
denition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.
[HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high denition audio.
[AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97.
Realtek LAN Controller [Enabled]
[Enabled] Enables the Realtek LAN controller.
[Disabled] Disables the controller.
Realtek PXE OPROM [Disabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable
or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Realtek LAN controller.
Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled] (P8H61-MX USB3 only)
[Enabled] Enables the onboard USB 3.0 controller.
[Disabled] Disables the controller.
Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support [Disabled] (P8H61-MX USB3
only)
This item appears only when the Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller item is set to [Enabled].
[Enabled] Enables the Asmedia USB 3.0 battery charging function.
[Disabled] Disables this function
2.5.7 APM
Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]
[Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.
[Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
[Last State] The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was
2-20ASUS P8H61-MX Series
before the AC power loss.
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
[Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 keyboard.
[Space Bar] Sets the Space Bar on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.
[Ctrl-Esc] Sets the Ctrl+Esc key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.
[Power Key] Sets Power key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature
requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]
[Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 mouse.
[Enabled] Enables the Power On by a PS/2 mouse. This feature requires an ATX
power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
Power On By PCIE [Disabled]
[Disabled] Disables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
[Enabled] Enables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
Power On By RTC [Disabled]
[Disabled] Disables RTC to generate a wake event.
[Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/
Minute/Second will become user-congurable with set values.
2.5.8 Network Stack
Network Stack [Disable Link]
Enables or disables the UEFI network stack. Conguration options: [Disable Link] [Enable]
The following two items appear only when you set the Network Stack item to [Enable].
Ipv4 PXE Support [Enabled]
This item allows users to disable or enable the Ipv4 PXE Boot support. Conguration
options: [Disable Link] [Enable]
Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled]
This item allows users to disable or enable the Ipv6 PXE Boot support. Conguration
options: [Disable Link] [Enable]
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-21
2.6 Monitor menu
The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change
the fan settings.
Scroll down to display the following items:
2-22ASUS P8H61-MX Series
2.6.1 CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard
temperatures. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.
2.6.2 CPU / Chassis Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and chassis fan
speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the eld
shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected speed.
2.6.3 CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard
voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item.
2.6.4 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.
[Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to
disable or set the CPU fan warning speed. Conguration options: [Ignore] [100 RPM] [200
RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM]
CPU Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows
you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust
[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.
[Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
depending on the CPU temperature.
The following four items appear only when you set CPU Fan Prole to [Manual].
CPU Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range
from 20ºC to 75ºC.
CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from
20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature reaches the upper limit, the CPU fan will operate at
the maximum duty cycle.
CPU Lower Temperature [20]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the lower limit of the CPU temperature. The values range
from 20ºC to 75ºC
CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from
0% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under the lower limit, the CPU fan will operate at the
minimum duty cycle.
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-23
2.6.5 Chassis Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
[Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed. Conguration options:
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust
[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan
[Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.
[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
The following four items appear only when you set Chassis Fan Prole to [Manual].
Chassis Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range
from 40ºC to 90ºC.
Chassis Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range
from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature reaches the upper limit, the chassis fan will
operate at the maximum duty cycle.
Chassis Lower Temperature [40]
Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.
Chassis Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from
60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40ºC, the chassis fan will operate at the
minimum duty cycle.
depending on the chassis temperature.
operation.
2.6.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled]
This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2-24ASUS P8H61-MX Series
2.7 Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.
2.7.1 Bootup NumLock State [On]
[On] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].
[Off] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].
2.7.2 Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
[Enabled] Enables the full screen logo display feature.
[Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature.
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature.
Post Report [5 sec]
This item appears only when the Full Screen Logo item is set to [Disabled] and allows you to
set the waiting time for the system to display the post report. Conguration options: [1 sec] [2
[Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot
[Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party
sequence.
manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so.
2.7.5 Setup Mode [EZ Mode]
[Advanced Mode] Sets Advanced Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup
[EZ Mode] Sets EZ Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup program.
program.
2.7.6 UEFI/Legacy Boot [Enable both UEFI and Legacy]
[Enable both UEFI and Legacy] Enables both UEFI and Legacy boot.
[Disable UEFI] Enables the Legacy boot, and disables the UEFI boot.
[Disable Legacy] Enables the UEFI booth, and disables the Legacy boot.
2.7.7 PCI ROM Priority [Legacy ROM]
This item species the PCI Option ROM launch priority when multiple Option ROMs are
available. Conguration options: [Legacy ROM] [EFI Compatible ROM]
2.7.8 Boot Option Priorities
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices
installed in the system.
• To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears.
• To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, press <F8> after POST.
2.7.9 Boot Override
These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the
screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to boot from
the selected device.
2-26ASUS P8H61-MX Series
2.8 Tools menu
The Tools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
2.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash Utility
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. Press [Enter] to launch the ASUS EZ Flash 2 screen.
For more details, see section 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2.
2.8.2 ASUS SPD Information
DIMM Slot # [DIMM_A1]
Displays the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information of the DIMM module installed on the
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
The Setup Prole Status items display Not Installed if no prole has been created.
Save to Prole
Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a prole. Key in a
prole number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.
Load from Prole
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the prole
number that saved your CMOS settings, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!
• We recommend that you update or load the BIOS on a system with the same memory/
CPU conguration and matching BIOS version.
Chapter 2: BIOS information2-27
2.9 Exit menu
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and
save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit
menu.
Load Optimized Defaults
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup
menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conrmation window appears.
Select Yes to load the default values.
Save Changes & Reset
Once you are nished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to
ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>,
a conrmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.
Discard Changes & Exit
This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you
select this option or if you press <Esc>, a conrmation window appears. Select Yes to
discard changes and exit.
ASUS EZ Mode
This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen.
Launch EFI Shell from lesystem device
This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.e) from one of
the available devices that have a lesystem.
2-28ASUS P8H61-MX Series
Appendices
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.
• 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.
IC: Canadian Compliance Statement
Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specications. This device complies with RSS
210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian
interference-causing equipment regulations.
This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Cut appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le
matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence d’Industrie Canada. Le
fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :
(1) cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences et
(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence, y compris celles susceptibles de provoquer
un fonctionnement non souhaité de l’appareil.
AppendicesA-1
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.
VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement
VCCI Class B Statement
KC: Korea Warning Statement
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://csr.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.
ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services
ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards for
protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to responsibly
recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging materials. Please
go to http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm for the detailed recycling information in different
regions.
A-2ASUS P8H61-MX Series
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
Telephone +886-2-2894-3447
Fax +886-2-2890-7798
E-mail info@asus.com.tw
Web site www.asus.com.tw
Technical Support
Telephone +86-21-38429911
Online support support.asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Telephone +1-510-739-3777
Fax +1-510-608-4555
Web site usa.asus.com
Technical Support
Telephone +1-812-282-2787
Support fax +1-812-284-0883
Online support support.asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany
Fax +49-2102-959911
Web site www.asus.de
Online contact www.asus.de/sales
Technical Support
Telephone +49-1805-010923*
Support Fax +49-2102-9599-11
Online support support.asus.com
* EUR 0.14/minute from a German xed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.