Asus P8Z77-V PRO User Manual
P8Z77-V PRO/
THUNDERBOLT
Motherboard
E7309
First Edition
May 2012
Copyright © 2012 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.
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ii
Contents
Safety information ..................................................................................................... vii
About this guide ....................................................................................................... viii
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! ....................................................................................................1-1
1.2 Package contents
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
1.3.2
1.3.3 ASUS Exclusive Features ...........................................................
1.3.4 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution .....................................................
1.3.5 ASUS EZ DIY ..............................................................................
1.3.6 Other special features .................................................................
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview ...............................................................................
2.2.1 Motherboard layout .....................................................................
2.2.2 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................
2.2.3 System memory ..........................................................................
2.2.4 Expansion slots .........................................................................
2.2.5 Onboard switches .....................................................................
2.2.6 Onboard LEDs ..........................................................................
2.2.7 Jumper ......................................................................................
2.2.8 Internal connectors
2.3 Building your computer system .............................................................
2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system ............
2.3.2 CPU installation
2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation .............................
2.3.4 DIMM installation
2.3.5
2.3.6
2.3.7
2.3.8 Front I/O Connector ..................................................................
2.3.9 Expension Card installation
2.3.10 USB BIOS Flashback ...............................................................
2.3.11 Rear panel connection ..............................................................
2.3.12 Audio I/O connections ...............................................................
2.4 Startingupforthersttime ....................................................................
....................................................................................... 1-1
.......................................................................................... 1-2
........................................................................ 1-2
Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with SMART DIGI+ Power Control 1-4
.................................................................... 2-23
......................................................................... 2-34
....................................................................... 2-38
Motherboard installation ............................................................ 2-39
ATX Power connection .............................................................. 2-41
SATA device connection ............................................................ 2-42
....................................................... 2-44
1-5
1-7
1-7
1-8
2-2
2-2
2-4
2-5
2-13
2-15
2-18
2-21
2-33
2-33
2-36
2-43
2-45
2-46
2-49
2-51
iii
Contents
2.5 Turning off the computer ......................................................................... 2-51
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.1 Knowing BIOS ............................................................................................3-1
3.2 BIOS setup program ..................................................................................
3.2.1 EZ Mode
3.2.2 Advanced Mode ..........................................................................
3.3 Main menu ..................................................................................................
3.4 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................................
DRAM Timing Control ................................................................................3-10
3.5 Advanced menu .......................................................................................
3.5.1 CPU Conguration ....................................................................
3.5.2 PCH Conguration ....................................................................
3.5.3 SATA Conguration ...................................................................
3.5.4 System Agent Conguration
3.5.5 Intel(R) Thunderbolt ..................................................................
3.5.6 USB Conguration ....................................................................
3.5.7 Onboard Devices Conguration ................................................
3.5.8 APM ..........................................................................................
3.5.9 Network stack
3.6 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................
3.7 Boot menu ................................................................................................
3.8 Tools menu ...............................................................................................
3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............................................................
3.8.2. ASUS O.C. Prole .....................................................................
3.8.3. ASUS SPD Information .............................................................
3.9 Exit menu ..................................................................................................
3.10 Updating BIOS ..........................................................................................
3.10.1 ASUS Update utility
3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility .............................................................
3.10.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
3.10.4 ASUS BIOS Updater .................................................................
...................................................................................... 3-2
...................................................... 3-25
............................................................................ 3-34
................................................................... 3-43
................................................. 3-47
3-1
3-3
3-5
3-7
3-20
3-21
3-23
3-24
3-27
3-29
3-30
3-33
3-35
3-38
3-40
3-40
3-40
3-41
3-42
3-43
3-46
3-48
Chapter 4: Software support
4.1 Installing an operating system .................................................................4-1
4.2 Support DVD information ..........................................................................
4.2.1 Running the support DVD ...........................................................
4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals
4.3 Software information .................................................................................
iv
.................................................. 4-2
4-1
4-1
4-3
Contents
4.3.1 AI Suite II.....................................................................................4-3
4.3.2 TurboV EVO ................................................................................
4.3.3 DIGI+ Power Control ...................................................................
4.3.4 EPU ...........................................................................................
4.3.5 USB 3.0 Boost
4.3.6 USB BIOS Flashback Wizard
4.3.7 Ai Charger+ ...............................................................................
4.3.8 Probe II
4.3.9 Sensor Recorder .......................................................................
4.3.10 ASUS Update ............................................................................
4.3.11 MyLogo2 ...................................................................................
4.3.12 Audio congurations
4.4 RAIDcongurations ................................................................................
4.4.1 RAID denitions ........................................................................
4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks .................................................
4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ..................................................
4.4.4 Intel
®
Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility ................4-25
4.4.5 Introduction to Intel
technologies ..............................................................................
4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk
4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ................
4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows
4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows
4.5.4 Using a USB oppy disk drive ...................................................
........................................................................... 4-14
.................................................... 4-15
...................................................................................... 4-18
.................................................................. 4-22
®
2012 Desktop responsiveness
..................................................................... 4-41
®
.................................. 4-41
®
OS installation ...... 4-42
4-4
4-9
4-13
4-17
4-19
4-20
4-21
4-24
4-24
4-25
4-25
4-29
4-41
4-43
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
5.1 AMD® CrossFireX™ technology ...............................................................5-1
5.1.1 Requirements ..............................................................................
5.1.2 Before you begin .........................................................................
5.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards ................................
5.1.4 Installing three CrossFireX™ graphics cards ..............................
5.1.5 Installing four CrossFireX™ graphics cards ................................
5.1.6 Installing the device drivers .........................................................
5.1.7 Enabling the AMD
5.2 NVIDIA
®
SLI™ technology ......................................................................... 5-7
®
CrossFireX™ technology ............................. 5-5
5.2.1 Requirements ..............................................................................
5.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards ......................................
5.2.3 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards ....................................
5.2.4 Installing four SLI-ready graphics cards ......................................
5.2.5 Installing the device drivers .........................................................
5-1
5-1
5-2
5-3
5-4
5-5
5-7
5-7
5-8
5-9
5-9
v
5.2.6 Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology ................................... 5-10
5.3 LucidLogix Virtu MVP ..............................................................................
5.3.1 Installing LucidLogix Virtu MVP .................................................
5.3.2 Setting up your display ..............................................................
5.3.3 Conguring LucidLogix Virtu MVP ............................................
5-12
5-12
5-13
5-14
Appendices
Notices .................................................................................................................... A-1
RF Equipment Notices ............................................................................................ A-3
vi
Safety information
Electrical safety
• To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet
before relocating the system.
• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables
for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,
disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all
power cables are unplugged.
• Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices
could interrupt the grounding circuit.
• Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power
company.
• If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
• Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals
that came with the package.
• Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power
cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
• To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,
slots, sockets and circuitry.
• Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area
where it may become wet.
• Place the product on a stable surface.
• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualied service
technician or your retailer.
vii
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts:
• Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports.
• Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when
installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and
connectors on the motherboard.
• Chapter 3: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
• Chapter 4: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
• Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
This chapter describes how to install and congure multiple ATI® CrossFireX™ and
NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.
Wheretondmoreinformation
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.
viii
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used
throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to
complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to
complete a task.
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Typography
Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italic
s Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means
that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Example: <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Del>
ix
P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
specications summary
CPU LGA1155 socket for Intel® 3rd/2nd Generation Core™ i7/ i5/ i3/
Chipset Intel® Z77 Express Chipset
Memory
Expansion slots
VGA
Multi-GPU support
Pentium® / Celeron® Processors
Supports 22/32nm CPU
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0
* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the
CPU types.
** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list
4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 2600(O.C.)*/2400(O.C.)*/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 Prole (XMP)
* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of
individual CPUs. Please refer to Memory QVL for details.
3 x PCI Express 3.0*/2.0 x16 slots (support x16; X8/X8; X8/X4/
X4)
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots**
2 x PCI slots
* PCIe 3.0 speed is supported by Intel® 3rd generation Core™
processors. Install the Ivy Bridge CPU before installing a device
on the PCIeX16_3 slot.
**The PCIe x1_2 slot shares bandwidth with SATA6G_E12.
SATA6G_E12 is enabled by default for system resource
optimization.
Integrated Graphics Processor- Intel® HD Graphics support
Multi-VGA output support: Thunderbolt/HDMI/DVI-D/RGB port
Supports Thunderbolt with max. resolution 2560 x 1600@60Hz
Supports HDMI with max. resolution of 1920 x 1200@ 60Hz
Supports DVI-D with max. resolution 1920 x 1200@60Hz
Supports RGB with max. resolution 2048 x 1536@75Hz
Supports Intel® InTru™ 3D/Quick Sync Video/Clear Video HD
Technology/Insider™
Supports NVIDIA® Quad-GPU SLI™ Technology
Supports AMD® 3-Way/ Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
Supports LucidLogix Virtu MVP Technology*
* LucidLogix Virtu MVP supports Windows 7 operating systems.
(continues on the next page)
x
P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
specications summary
Storage Intel® Z77 Express Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support
LAN Intel® 82579V Gigabit LAN- Dual interconnect between the
Wireless Data Network Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Audio Realtek® ALC8928-channelhighdenitionaudioCODEC
USB 1 x ASMedia USB 3.0 controller- supports ASUS USB 3.0
ASUS unique features ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 3 - New DIGI+ Power
- 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (gray)
- 4 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports (blue)
- Supports Intel® Smart Response Technology, Intel® Rapid
Start Technology, Intel® Smart Connect Technology*
ASMedia® PCIe SATA 6Gb/s controller**
- 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (navy blue)
* Supports on Intel® Core™ processor family with Windows® 7
operating systems.
** These SATA ports are for data hard drivers only. ATAPI devices
are not supported.
integrated LAN controller and physical layer (PHY)
ASUS Wi-Fi GO! Utility
- Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit True BD Lossless Sound
- DTS UltraPC II
- DTS Connect
- Supports jack-detection, multi-streaming and front panel
jack-retasking
- Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O
Boost UASP Mode.
- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at back panel(blue)
Intel® Z77 Express Chipset- supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost
Turbo Mode.*
- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support
- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at back panel(blue)
Intel® Z77 Express Chipset
- 10 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports at mid-board
* The USB 3.0 ports run USB 3.0 speed under Windows
later versions.
Control with Smart DIGI+:
Smart DiGI+ :
- Smart DIGI+ Key- quickly delivers higher VRM power for
superior CPU/iGPU/DRAM overclocking performance.
- Smart CPU Power Level (VRD 12.5 Future Power Design)-
provides the best digital power saving conditions.
CPU Power
- Industry leading Digital 12-phase power design (8-phase for
CPU, 4-phase for iGPU)
- ASUS CPU Power Utility
®
7 or
(continues on the next page)
xi
P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
specications summary
ASUS unique features DRAM Power
- Industry leading Digital 2-phase DRAM Power Design
- ASUS DRAM Power Utility
ASUS EPU
- EPU, EPU switch
ASUS TPU
- Auto Tuning, TurboV, GPU Boost, TPU switch
ASUS Wi-Fi GO!:
- Wi-Fi GO! Function: DLNA Media Hub, Smart Motion
Control, Remote Desktop, Remote Keyboard & Mouse, File
Transfer, Capture & Send (available with V1.01.00 or later)
- Wi-Fi GO! Remote for portable Smartphone/Tablet,
supporting iOS & Android systems
- Wi-Fi Engine for network sharing and connection: Client
Mode, AP Mode
ASUS Exclusive Features:
- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user
interface
- Network iControl featuring instant network bandwidth
domination for top network program in use
- USB 3.0 Boost featuring the latest USB 3.0 UASP standard
- USB Charger+ featuring quick-charging function for modern
smart devices
- Ai Charger+
- Disk Unlocker
- AI Suite II
- Anti Surge
- MemOK!
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:
- ASUS Fan Xpert 2 featuring Fan Auto Tuning function for
optimized speed control
- ASUS Fanless Design: Heatsink solution
ASUS EZ DIY:
- ASUS USB BIOS Flashback with USB BIOS Flashback
Wizard for EZ BIOS download scheduling
- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user
interface
- ASUS O.C. Tuner
- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
- ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS Q-Design:
- ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
- ASUS Q-Slot
- ASUS Q-DIMM
- ASUS Q-Connector
(continues on the next page)
xii
P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
specications summary
ASUS exclusive
overclocking features
Back panel I/O ports
Internal I/O connectors
Precision Tweaker 2:
- vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.005V increment
- vCCSA: 144-step system agent voltage control
- vDRAM Bus: 144-step Memory voltage control
- vPCH: 90-step Chipset voltage control
- iGPU: 255-step iGPU voltage control
- vCPU_PLL: 160-step CPU & PCH PLL voltage control
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):
- BCLK/PCIE frequency tuning from 80MHz up to 300MHz at
0.1MHz increment
Overclocking Protection:
- ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)
1 x Thunderbolt port*
1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port
1 x WLAN connector for ASUS wireless module (Wi-Fi 802.11
b/g/n)
1 x HDMI
1 x DVI
1 x RGB
1 x Optical S/PDIF Out
1 x Intel® LAN (RJ45) port
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue, 1 supports USB BIOS Flashback)
8-channel Audio I/O ports
* Thunderbolt port shares bandwidth with SATA6G_E12,
USB3_E12 and PCIeX1_2. The Thunderbolt port default runs at
X2 mode. SATA6G_E12 and USB3_E12 are enabled for system
resource optimization. Go to Advanced> Onboard Devices
Conguration> Thunderbolt bandwidth in BIOS to congure the
necessary settings.
1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB ports (19-pin)
5 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 8 USB ports
4 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (2 x gray; 2 x navy blue)
4 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (blue)
1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin)
1 x CPU Optional Fan connector (4-pin)
3 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin)
Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
1 x S/PDIF out header
24-pin EATX Power connector
8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
System Panel (Q-Connector)
1 x USB BIOS Flashback Button
1 x MemOK! button
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
1 x EPU switch
1 x TPU switch
1 x COM port
1 x CPU/DRAM overvoltage jumper
1 x TPM header
(continues on the next page)
xiii
P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
specications summary
BIOS features
Manageability
Support DVD contents Drivers
Form factor ATX form factor: 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
*Specicationsaresubjecttochangewithoutnotice.
64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM
BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2,
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3, F12 PrintScreen, F3 Shortcut Function
and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory
information
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, PXE, WOR by PME
ASUS Utilities
ASUS Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
xiv
Chapter 1
User Manual
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another
standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in
your package with the list below.
1.2 Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Chapter 1
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/
THUNDERBOLT motherboard
2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables 2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
1 x I/O Shield 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit Wi-Fi Ring moving antenna
1 x ASUS Wi-Fi GO! card
(Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n)
• If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
• The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specications may
vary with different models.
User manual Support DVD
1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge
connector
1 x 2-port USB 2.0 / 1-port
eSATA module
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
1-1
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
Chapter 1
LGA1155 Intel® 3rd/2nd Generation Core™ i7/Core™ i5/Core™ i3/
Pentium®/Celeron® Processors
This motherboard supports Intel® 3rd/2nd generation Core™ i7/i5/i3/Pentium®/Celeron®
processors in the LGA1155 package, with iGPU, memory and PCI Express controllers
integrated to support onboard graphics output with dedicated chipsets, 2-channel (4 DIMM)
DDR3 memory and 16 PCI Express 3.0/2.0 lanes. This provides great graphics performance.
Intel® 3rd/2nd generation Core™ i7/i5/i3/Pentium®/Celeron® processors are among the most
powerful and energy efcient CPUs in the world.
Intel® Z77 Express Chipset
The Intel® Z77 Express Chipset is a single-chipset design to support socket 1155 Intel®
3rd/2nd generation Core™ i7/i5/i3/Pentium®/Celeron® processors. It provides improved
performance by utilizing serial point-to-point links, allowing increased bandwidth and stability.
Additionally, Z77 chipset provides 4 USB 3.0 ports for 10 times faster data retrieval speed.
Moreover, Intel® Z77 Express Chipset can also enable iGPU function, letting users enjoy the
latest Intel® integrated graphic performance.
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 current PCIe 2.0. Total bandwidth for a x16
link reaches a maximum of 32GB/s, double the 16GB/s of PCIe 2.0 (in x16 mode). As such,
PCIe 3.0 provides users unprecedented data speeds, combined with the convenience and
seamless transition offered 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.
* PCIe 3.0 speed is supported by Intel® 3rd generation Core™ processors.
Dual-Channel DDR3 2400(O.C.) / 2200(O.C.) / 2133(O.C.) / 2000(O.C.) /
1866(O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz Support
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of DDR3
2400(O.C.) / 2200(O.C.) / 2133(O.C.) / 2000(O.C.) / 1866(O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz 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.
Quad-GPU SLI and Quad-GPU CrossFireX Support!
Flexible Multi-GPU Solutions, Your Weapon of Choice!
P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT brings you the multi-GPU choice of either SLI™ or
CrossFireX. The motherboard features the most powerful Intel® Z77 platform to optimize
PCIe allocation in multiple GPU congurations. Expect a brand-new gaming style you’ve
never experienced before!
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Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Intel® Smart Response Technology
Intel® Smart Response Technology boosts overall system performance by using an installed
fast SSD (min 18.6GB available capacity required) as a cache for frequently accessed data.
Key benets include reduced load and wait times, and lower power consumption through the
elimination of unnecessary hard drive spin. This technology combines SSD performance with
hard drive capacity, operating up to 6X faster than a hard drive-only system.
* Intel® Smart Response Technology is supported by 3rd/2nd generation Intel® Core™ processor
family on Windows® 7 operating systems.
** Operating systems must be installed on the HDD to launch Intel
The capacity of the SSD is reserved for caching function.
®
Smart Response Technology.
Intel® Rapid Start Technology
Allows your computer to quickly resume from a low-power hibernate state in seconds. Saving
your system memory to the designated SSD, it provides your computer a faster wake-up
response time, while still keeping the energy use low.
Intel® Smart Connect Technology
Your computer can receive web updates with fresh content for selected applications, even
when the system is in sleep mode. This means less time waiting for applications to update
and sync with the cloud, leading to a more efcient computing experience.
Complete USB 3.0 Integration
ASUS facilitates the strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear panel – 6 USB
3.0 ports in total. Experience the latest plug & play connectivity at speeds up to 10 times
faster than USB 2.0. The P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT affords greater convenience to
high speed connectivity.
Extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s Support
The Intel® Z77 Express Chipset natively supports the latest Serial ATA (SATA) interface,
delivering up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer. ASUS provides extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports with
enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the bandwidth of current bus systems.
Chapter 1
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
1-3
1.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with SMART DIGI+ Power
Chapter 1
Together with the ASUS pioneered twin onboard chips, TPU (TurboV Processing Unit) and
EPU (Energy Processing Unit), ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors feature SMART DIGI+
Power Control, which includes multiple digital voltage controllers that allow ultra-precise autotuning for the CPU, iGPU and DRAM. It allows you to set the system to auto-tune the settings
for fast/extreme performance or to manually adjust the voltage levels, offering easier power
control and better power-saving solutions via the ASUS AI Suite II utility.
TPU with SMART DIGI+
SMART DIGI+ Technology works with TPU (TurboV Processing Unit) to ramp up the system’s
performance to its maximum. Enable the SMART DIGI+ key with a single click and adjust
CPU ratios manually in the TPU to increase CPU frequency. TPU (TurboV Processing Unit)
offers precise voltage control and advanced monitoring mechanisms through the Auto Tuning
and TurboV functions. Auto Tuning provides a user-friendly solution to automatically optimize
the system for fast, yet stable clock speeds, while TurboV enables unlimited freedom to
adjust CPU frequencies and ratios for optimized performance in diverse situations.
CPU Power Wattage Cut in Half (With next generation Intel® VRD 12.5
future power technology)
SMART DIGI+ Technology also includes the Smart CPU Power Level prole, which reduces
CPU power usage at the specied power level, thus creating a cooler and quieter system.
EPU
EPU (Energy Processing Unit), the world’s rst real-time system power-saving chip,
automatically detects the current system load and intelligently moderates power usage.
It offers a total system-wide energy optimization, reduces fan noise, and extends the
component’s lifespan.
Control
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Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.3.3 ASUS Exclusive Features
Thunderbolt Technology Onboard
An industry rst, ASUS has placed Thunderbolt I/O technology onboard, and are set to
revolutionize the speed at which peripherals and displays operate. Featuring a maximum
bi-directional speed of 10 Gbps, Thunderbolt is 2 times faster than USB 3.0 and an incredible
20 times faster than USB 2.0. And with the ability to daisy-chain up to six devices without the
need for a hub or switch, that means less overheard for a clutter free computing experience.
For example, users can connect multiple native Thunderbolt storage devices, an HD video
capture device and even an HD display to a single Thunderbolt chain while maintaining
maximum throughput. You can also connect a DisplayPort, DVI, HDMI or VGA display with an
existing adapter.
Wi-Fi GO!
ASUS Wi-Fi GO! makes enjoying home entertainment easier than ever! Exclusive Wi-Fi
functions provide DLNA streaming so you can enjoy a home theater PC, while also providing
remote access to your PC with a smart device. ASUS Wi-Fi GO! leads the market by
integrating Wi-Fi connectivity, DLNA access and all smart devices with a one-stop utility for a
futuristic connected lifestyle.
1. Wi-Fi hotspot setup for convenience: quickly set up and connect anywhere at home thanks
to instant soft access point and device detection. Build your network without an extra router!
2. Turn smartphones and tablets into a remote control:
- Remote Desktop: access your PC from a tablet? No sweat! Control your PC in realtime from a mobile device for complete comfort. This function brings notebook-like
convenience, by creating a virtual remote desktop, offering portable access to your data in
desktop with a smartphone or pad.
- Motion control your PC: entertaining and customizable! Using natural gestures, you can
move directionally to use applications with a smartphone or tablet’s motion sensors. For
example, in media players you can fast forward, go next, stop, or create a music playing
motion control prole. You can even program sensor scenarios to design your own
motion-based game!
- Remote keyboard and mouse: sit back and control your computer by using your tablet’s
built-in QWERTY keyboard to type and click!
3. DLNA streaming made easy: enjoy HD content, music and photos from the PC on your
DLNA devices via Wi-Fi connectivity, the perfect match for creating your own home theater!
4. Easy le and screenshot transfers: send and share les and screen shots from your PC to
smart devices directly with a touch over Wi-Fi.
Chapter 1
GPU Boost
GPU Boost accelerates the integrated GPU for extreme graphics performance. The user-
friendly interface facilitates exible frequency adjustments. It easily delivers stable system-
level upgrades for every use.
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
1-5
USB 3.0 Boost
New ASUS USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol), the
Chapter 1
latest USB 3.0 standard. Witht USB 3.0 Boost technology, a USB device’s transmission
speed is signicantly increased up to 170%, adding to an already impressive fast USB 3.0
transfer speed. ASUS software automatically accelerates data speeds for compatible USB
3.0 peripherals without the need for any user interaction.
USB Charger+
With a dedicated onboard controller, quick-charge all your smart devices such as iProducts.
smartphones, tablets and more, all up to 3X faster, even when the PC is powered off, in sleep
or hibernation modes.
USB BIOS Flashback
A truly revolutionary hardware-based update solution. USB BIOS Flashback offers the most
convenient way ever to update the BIOS! It allows users to update new UEFI BIOS versions
even without hardware such as a CPU or DRAM installed into the motherboard. Just plug in a
USB ash drive containing the BIOS le, and press the BIOS Flashback button for 3 seconds
with the power supply connected. The UEFI BIOS will then automatically update without
requiring further interaction. With its new, complementary Windows application, users can
regularly check for UEFI BIOS updates and download the latest BIOS automatically. Hasslefree updating for the ultimate convenience!
Network iControl
With a single-click on/off button, the application currently in use has its data and network
bandwidth prioritized over other programs. Moreover, you can prioritize your favorite software
easily by conguring proles through the intuitive user interface. Within the prole, programs
can be pre-scheduled to run in a specic time period to avoid network congestion and long-
waits on downloads. Auto PPPoE network connection provides a one-step setup for enhanced
online convenience. Overall, it’s an intuitive network bandwidth control center.
AI Suite II
With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all the exclusive ASUS features
into one simple to use software package. It allows users to supervise overclocking, energy
management, fan speed control, voltage and sensor readings, and even interact with mobile
devices via Wi-Fi. This all-in-one software offers diverse and ease to use functions, with no
need to switch back and forth between different utilities.
MemOK!
MemOK! quickly ensures memory boot compatibility. This remarkable memory rescue tool
requires a mere push of a button to patch memory issues. MemOK! determines fail-safe
settings and dramatically improves your system boot success. Get your system up and
running in no time!
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Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.3.4 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Fanless Design—Heat-sink solution
The stylish heatsink features 0-dB thermal solution that offers users a noiseless PC
environment. Not only the beautiful shape upgrades the visual enjoyment for motherboard
users, but also the heatsink design lowers the temperature of the chipset and power phase
area through high efcient heat-exchange. Combined with usability and aesthetics, the ASUS
stylish heatsink will give users an extremely silent and cooling experience with the elegant
appearance!
DO NOT uninstall the heat-sink by yourself. Doing so may bend the tubing and affect the
heat dissipation performance.
ASUS Fan Xpert 2- Featuring Fan Auto Tuning for the Ultimate Cool
and Quiet
Hardware-level ASUS Fan Xpert 2 provides the most customizable settings for an even
cooler and quieter computing environment. Upgraded with Fan Auto Tuning mode, it enables
tailored fan speed settings for each CPU and chassis fan with exclusive automatic fan
speed detection, which scans each fan to run at specic settings based on different criteria,
achieving the best balance of cooling performance and low noise. Fan Xpert 2 also includes
an RPM Fixed Mode for users who wish to reduce noise levels to near 0dB with highly
specic fan speed control. It reacts to system loads for greater control.
1.3.5 ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)
Media-renowned UEFI BIOS from ASUS offers the rst mouse-controlled graphical BIOS
designed with selectable modes, providing a user-friendly interface that goes beyond
traditional keyboard-only controls. It also fully-utilizes 2.2TB and larger hard drives in 64-bit
operating systems with native support.
The ASUS exclusive interface EZ Mode displays frequently-accessed info. Users can
choose system performance settings and drag and drop boot priorities. Advanced Mode for
performance enthusiasts includes detailed DRAM settings via a dedicated memory info page
for complete insight.
New upgrade! Quick and easy info for enhanced system control
- F12 BIOS snapshot hotkey for sharing UEFI setup info and troubleshooting
- New F3 Shortcut for most accessed info
- ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) Information for accessing memory info,
detecting faulty DIMMs and helping with difcult POST situations
Chapter 1
ASUS Q-Design
ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-LED, Q-Slot, and Q-DIMM design
speed up and simplify the DIY process!
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
1-7
ASUS Q-Connector
The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables
Chapter 1
in one easy step with one complete module. This unique adapter eliminates the trouble of
plugging in one cable at a time, making the connection quick and accurate.
ASUS EZ-Flash 2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a
bootable oppy disk or an OS-based utility.
1.3.6 Other special features
LucidLogix Virtu MVP
LucidLogix Virtu MVP featuring HyperFormance™ Technology boosts your discrete graphics
card up to 30% beyond its original performance. Designed for Intel
and Windows® 7 PCs, it perfectly combines the performance of discrete graphics cards
with fast computing iGPU. Also with the newly designed Virtual Sync, users can enjoy a
smoother gaming experience by eliminating tearing artifacts. LucidLogix Virtu MVP could
also dynamically assign tasks to the best available graphics resource, based on power,
performance and system load. This allows users to fully utilize 3x faster video conversion with
Intel® Quick Sync Video 2.0 technology while retaining high-end 3D rendering and gaming
performance, provided by both NVIDIA® and AMD graphic cards. When the discrete graphics
card is not required, it will put the power use down to near zero, making the system more
environmentally-friendly. For users searching for perfection, LucidLogix Virtu MVP provides
great graphical performance and the best exibility and efciency.
* LucidLogix Virtu MVP supports Windows 7 operating system.
** Intel® Quick Sync Video feature is supported by 3rd/2nd generation Intel® Core™ processor
family.
DTS UltraPC II
DTS UltraPC II delivers exceptional 5.1 surround through the most popular PC audio setups
- your existing stereo speakers or headphones. In addition to virtual surround, it upgrades
original sound to new levels with Audio Restoration, recreating the dynamic range of audio
les. Symmetry mode improves the balance of perceived loudness across different input
sources and Enhance boosts audio quality through high and low frequency equalization. With
these technologies, users experience better home theater audio with ease.
®
processor graphics
DTS Connect
To get the most out of your audio entertainment across all formats and quality levels, DTS
Connect combines two enabling technologies. DTS Neo:PC™ upmixes stereo sources (CDs,
MP3s, WMAs, internet radio) into as many as 7.1 channels of incredible surround sound.
Consumers can then connect their PC to a home theater system.DTS Interactive is capable
of performing multi-channel encoding of DTS bitstreams on personal computers, and sending
encoded bitstreams out of a digital audio connection (such as S/PDIF or HDMI) designed to
deliver audio to an external decoder.
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Chapter 1: Product Introduction
ErP Ready
The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires
products to meet certain energy efciency requirement in regards to energy consumptions.
This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efcient products
through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus
mitigate environmental impacts.
Chapter 1
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
1-9
Chapter 1
1-10
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Chapter 2
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change
any motherboard settings.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due
to static electricity.
• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the
bag that came with the component.
• Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so
may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview
2.2.1 Motherboard layout
Chapter 2
2-2
Refer to
2.2.7 Internal connectors
information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.
and
2.3.10 Rear panel connection
Chapter 2: Hardware information
for more
Layout contents
Connectors/LEDs/Jumpers/Slots Page
1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) 2-29
2. LGA1155 CPU socket
3. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin
CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN 1-3)
4. DDR3 DIMM slots
5. MemOK! switch
6. Intel
7.
(7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [navy blue])
8. Intel
9. Intel
10. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)
11. EPU switch
12. TPU switch
13. Standby Power LED
14. Clear CMOS (Clear RTC RAM 3-pin CLRTC)
15.
16. CPU/DRAM overvoltage jumper (3-pin OV_CPU/DRAM)
17. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910,
USB1112, USB1314
18. USB BIOS ashback button
19. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)
20.
21. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
®
Z77 USB 3.0 connector (USB3_34) 2-26
Asmedia® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
®
Z77 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])
®
Z77 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 2-31
)
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-29
2-4
2-28
2-5
2-15
2-25
2-23
2-24
2-32
2-16
2-16
2-18
2-21
2-22
2-27
2-45
2-32
2-26
Chapter 2
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
2-3
2.2.2 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1155 socket designed for the Intel®
3rd/2nd Generation Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 / Pentium / Celeron Processors.
Chapter 2
Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
• The LGA1156 CPU is incompatible with the LGA1155 socket. DO NOT install a
LGA1156 CPU on the LGA1155 socket.
• 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.
2-4
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.3 System memory
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual In-line Memory Modules
(DIMM) slots.
A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR
or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.
Recommendedmemorycongurations
Chapter 2
Install one memory module in slot A2 rst as a single-channel operation.
ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/ THUNDERBOLT
2-5
Memorycongurations
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the
DIMM sockets.
Chapter 2
• 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.
• Due to Intel® 2nd generation processors’ behavior, DDR3 2200 and above, 2000/1800
MHz memory module will run at DDR3 2133/1866/1600 MHz frequency as default.
• According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect
the CPU.
• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.
• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows OS, when you install 4GB
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 OS.
- Install a 64-bit Windows OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the
motherboard.
- For more details, refer to the Microsoft
®
support site at
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929605/en-us.
• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less
(Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB).
• 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
3.4 Ai Tweaker menu
for manual memory
frequency adjustment.
• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
P8Z77-VPRO/THUNDERBOLTMotherboardQualiedVendorsLists
(QVL)
DDR3 2600 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip
G.skill F3-20800CL10-16GBZMD(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 10-12-12-28 1.65 • • •
Team TXD38192M2600HC10QDC-L(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS 10-12-12-31 1.65 • •
* The memory modules in 2600MHz and above are supported by Intel 3rd Generation Core
Processors.
** Due to the behavior of the Intel 2nd Generation Processor, DDR3 2200 and above/2000/1800 MHz
memory module will run at DDR3 2133/1866/1600 MHz frequency as default.
2-6
Brand
Chip
Timing Voltage DIMM socket
NO.
support (Optional)
1 2 4
Chapter 2: Hardware information
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