ASUS P9X79LE User Manual

P9X79

Motherboard

E8038

Revised Edition V2 January 2013

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, modied or altered, unless such repair, modication 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 identication or explanation and to the owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software

This product may contain copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (“GPL”) and under the Lesser General Public License Version (“LGPL”). The GPL and LGPL licensed code in this product is distributed without any warranty. Copies of these licenses are included in this product.

You may obtain the complete corresponding source code (as dened in the GPL) for the GPL Software,

and/or the complete corresponding source code of the LGPL Software (with the complete machinereadable “work that uses the Library”) for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product including the GPL Software and/or LGPL Software, which will be no earlier than December 1, 2011, 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 notication 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

Notices vi

Safety information ..................................................................................................... vii

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

P9X79 specications summary ................................................................................. x

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome! ....................................................................................................1-1

1.2 Package contents.......................................................................................1-1

1.3 Special features..........................................................................................1-2

1.3.1 Product highlights........................................................................1-2

1.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with New DIGI+ Power Control .... 1-3

1.3.3 ASUS Exclusive Features ........................................................... 1-4

1.3.4 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution ..................................................... 1-4

1.3.5 ASUS EZ DIY .............................................................................. 1-5

1.3.6 Other special features ................................................................. 1-5

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.1 Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-1

2.2 Motherboard overview ............................................................................... 2-2

2.2.1 Motherboard layout ..................................................................... 2-2

2.2.2 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................2-4

2.2.3 System memory .......................................................................... 2-5

2.2.4 Expansion slots ......................................................................... 2-15

2.2.5 Onboard switches .....................................................................2-17

2.2.6 Onboard LEDs ..........................................................................2-20

2.2.7 Jumper ...................................................................................... 2-22

2.2.8 Internal connectors....................................................................2-23

2.3 Building your computer system .............................................................2-32

2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system ............ 2-32

2.3.2 CPU installation.........................................................................2-33

2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ............................. 2-35

2.3.4 DIMM installation.......................................................................2-36

2.3.5 Motherboard installation ............................................................ 2-37

2.3.6 ATX Power connection .............................................................. 2-39

2.3.7 SATA device connection ............................................................ 2-40

2.3.8 Front I/O Connector ..................................................................2-41

2.3.9 Expansion Card installation.......................................................2-42

2.3.10 USB BIOS Flashback ................................................................ 2-43

2.3.11 Rear panel connection ..............................................................2-44

2.3.12 Audio I/O connections ............................................................... 2-46

iii

Contents

2.4 Starting up for the rst time .................................................................... 2-48

2.5 Turning off the computer ......................................................................... 2-48

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS ............................................................................................3-1

3.2 BIOS setup program ..................................................................................3-1

3.2.1 EZ Mode......................................................................................3-2

3.2.2 Advanced Mode .......................................................................... 3-3

3.3 Main menu ..................................................................................................3-5

3.4 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................................ 3-7

3.4.1 DRAM Timing Control ...............................................................3-10

3.4.2 DIGI+ Power Control ..................................................... 3-19

3.4.3 CPU Performance Settings ....................................................... 3-22

3.5 Advanced menu .......................................................................................3-26

3.5.1 CPU Conguration .................................................................... 3-27

3.5.2 CPU Power Management Conguration ................................... 3-28

3.5.3 PCH Conguration .................................................................... 3-29

3.5.4 SATA Conguration ................................................................... 3-29

3.5.5 USB Conguration ....................................................................3-32

3.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguraton ................................................. 3-33

3.5.7 APM ..........................................................................................3-35

3.6 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................3-36

3.7 Boot menu ................................................................................................3-39

3.8 Tools menu ............................................................................................... 3-41

3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............................................................ 3-41

3.8.2 ASUS DRAM SPD Information .................................................3-42

3.8.3 ASUS O.C. Prole ..................................................................... 3-43

3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................................. 3-44

3.10 Updating BIOS .......................................................................................... 3-45

3.10.1 ASUS Update utility...................................................................3-45

3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ............................................................. 3-48

3.10.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility................................................. 3-49

3.10.4 ASUS BIOS Updater ................................................................. 3-50

Chapter 4: Software support

4.1 Installing an operating system .................................................................4-1

4.2 Support DVD information .......................................................................... 4-1

4.2.1 Running the support DVD ........................................................... 4-1

4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals..................................................4-2

4.3 Software information .................................................................................4-3

iv

4.3.1 AI Suite II.....................................................................................4-3

4.3.2 TurboV EVO ................................................................................ 4-4

4.3.3 DIGI+ Power Control ...................................................................4-8

4.3.4 EPU ........................................................................................... 4-10

4.3.5 FAN Xpert+ ............................................................................... 4-11

4.3.6 Sensor Recorder ....................................................................... 4-12

4.3.7 Probe II......................................................................................4-13

4.3.8 USB 3.0 Boost...........................................................................4-14

4.3.9 ASUS Update ............................................................................ 4-15

4.3.10 MyLogo2 ...................................................................................4-16

4.3.11 Audio congurations..................................................................4-18

4.4 RAID congurations ................................................................................4-19

4.4.1 RAID denitions ........................................................................4-19

4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks .................................................4-20

4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS .................................................. 4-20

4.4.4 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility ................4-20

4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk.....................................................................4-24

4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ................ 4-24

4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows® .................................. 4-24

4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation ...... 4-25

4.5.4 Using a USB oppy disk drive ................................................... 4-26

Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support

5.1 AMD® CrossFireX™ technology ...............................................................5-1

5.1.1 Requirements .............................................................................. 5-1

5.1.2 Before you begin ......................................................................... 5-1

5.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards ................................5-2

5.1.4 Installing the device drivers ......................................................... 5-3

5.1.5 Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology ............................. 5-3

5.2 NVIDIA® SLI™ technology ......................................................................... 5-4

5.2.1 Requirements .............................................................................. 5-4

5.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards ......................................5-4

5.2.3 Installing the device drivers ......................................................... 5-5

5.2.4 Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology ..................................... 5-5

v

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

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

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

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

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•

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

•

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

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required

to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications to this unit not

expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

REACH

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

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 qualied 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 qualied service

technician or your retailer.

vii

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring 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 congure multiple AMD® CrossFireX™ and

NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.

Where to nd more information

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

1. ASUS websites

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

2. Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty yers,

that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

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.that you must press the enclosed key.

Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key.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

P9X79 specications summary

CPU 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor family for the LGA

Chipset

Memory 8 x DIMM, max. 64GB, DDR3 2400(O.C.) / 2133(O.C.) /

Expansion slots 2 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots (Dual at x16/ x16 mode))

Multi-GPU support Supports NVIDIA® Quad-GPU SLI™ TechnologyQuad-GPU SLI™ Technology SLI™ Technology

Storage Intel® X79 Express Chipset

LAN Intel® 82579V Gigabit LAN Controller

Audio Realtek® ALC892 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC

2011 Socket Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 * The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on CPU

types.

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

Intel® X79 Express Chipset

1866/ 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered

memory Quad channel memory architecture Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)

* Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200/2000/1800 MHz memory

module will run at DDR3 2133/1866/1600 MHz frequency as

default.

** Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of

individual CPUs. Some hyper DIMMs only support one DIMM per channel. Please refer to Memory QVL for details.

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

QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists).

1 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIe x16_3 at x8 mode) 2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots 1 x PCI slot * This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Functions

will be available when using PCIe 3.0-compliant devices. Please refer to www.asus.com for updated details.

Supports AMD® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology

- 2 x SATA 6 Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support

- 4 x SATA 3 Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support

ASMedia® 1061 SATA controller

- 1 x Power eSATA 6Gb/s port

- 1 x eSATA 6Gb/s port

- Support 192khz / 24bit True BD Lossless Sound

- BD Audio Layer Content Protection

- DTS UltraPC II

- DTS Connect

- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-Streaming and Front Panel Jack-Retasking

- Optical S/PDIF Out port at back I/O

(continues on next page)

x

P9X79 specications summary

USB 2 x ASMedia® USB 3.0 controllers

IEEE 1394 VIA® VT6315N controller supports 1 x IEEE 1394a port (back

ASUS Unique Features ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 3

- 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at back panel (Blue) Intel® X79 Express Chipset

- 14 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

(8 ports at midboard; 6 ports at back panel)

panel)

with New DIGI+ Power Control:

CPU Power

- Industry leading Digital 8+2 Phase Power Design

- ASUS CPU Power Utility

DRAM Power

- Industry leading Digital 2+2 Phase Power Design

- ASUS DRAM Power Utility

ASUS TPU

- Auto Tuning, TurboV, TPU switch

ASUS EPU

- EPU, EPU switch

ASUS Exclusive Features:

- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user interface

- USB 3.0 Boost

- MemOK!

- AI Suite II

- Ai Charger

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:

- ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish Heat-sink solution

- ASUS Fan Xpert+

ASUS EZ DIY:

- USB BIOS Flashback

- ASUS O.C. Prole

- ASUS MyLogo 2

- Percision Tweaker 2

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

- Multi-language BIOS

ASUS Q-Design:

- ASUS Q-Shield

- ASUS Q-Slot

- ASUS Q-DIMM

- ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)

- ASUS Q-Connector

(continues on next page)

xi

P9X79 specications summary

ASUS exclusive overclocking features

Back panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse combo port

Internal I/O connectors 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 8 USB ports

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)

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

Precision Tweaker 2:

- vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.005V increment

- vTTCPU: Adjustable I/O voltage at 0.00625V increment

- vCCSA: 255-step system agent voltage control

- vDRAM Bus: 160-step Memory voltage control

- vPCH: 96-step Chipset voltage control

- vCPU_PLL: 48-step CPU & PCH PLL voltage control

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):

- BCLK/PEG frequency tuning from 80MHz up to 300MHz at

0.1MHz increment

Overclocking Protection:

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

4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue) 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (white port can be switched to USB BIOS Flashback) 1 x IEEE1394a port 1 x USB BIOS Flashback button 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port 1 x eSATA 6Gb/s port (red) 1 x Power eSATA 6Gb/s port (green) 8-channel Audio I/O

2 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors 4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors 1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin) 1 x CPU Optional Fan connector (4-pin) 4 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin) 1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP) 1 x COM connector 1 x TPM connector 1 x S/PDIF Out header 1 x Clear CMOS jumper 1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector 1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector 1 x System Panel (Q-Connector) 1 x MemOK! button 1 x EPU switch 1 x TPU switch

64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.6, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

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

ASUS Utilities ASUS Update Anti-virus software (OEM version)

xii

Chapter 1

User Manual

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® P9X79 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.

ASUS P9X79 motherboard User guide Support DVD

2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables 2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables 1 x ASUS Q-Shield

1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge

connector

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

• The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specications may

vary with different models.

1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit

Chapter 1

ASUS P9X79 1-1

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

Chapter 1

2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor family for the LGA 2011 Socket

This motherboard supports the latest 2nd Generation IntelIntel® Core™ i7 Processor Family inCore™ i7 Processor Family in LGA2011 package, with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to quad-channel (8 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 40 PCI Express 3.0 lanes. This provides great graphics performance. 2nd Generation IntelIntel® Core™ i7 Processor Family is one of the most powerfulCore™ i7 Processor Family is one of the most powerful

and energy efcient CPUs in the world.

Intel® X79 Express Chipset

The Intel® X79 Express Chipset is the latest single-chipset design that supports the new socket 2011 2nd Generation IntelIntel® Core™ i7 Processor Family. It improves performance byCore™ i7 Processor Family. It improves performance by

utilizing serial point-to-point links, allowing for increased bandwidth and stability. Additionally,

the X79 comes with 2 SATA 6Gb/s and 4 SATA 3Gb/s ports for faster data retrieval, doubling the bandwidth of current bus systems.

Quad-GPU SLI™ and Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Support

P9X79 brings you the multi-GPU choice of either SLI™ or CrossFireX. The motherboard features the most powerful Intel® X79 platform to optimize PCIe allocation in multiple GPU

congurations. Expect a brand-new gaming style you’ve never experienced before!

Quad-Channel DDR3 2400(O.C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz Support

The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 2400(O.

C.)/2133(O.C.)/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of

the latest operation system, 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The quadchannel DDR3 architecture quadruple the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance.

* Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200/2000/1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3 2133/1866/1600 MHz frequency as default.

True USB 3.0 Support

Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 5.0Gbps with USB 3.0 - the latest connectivity standard. Build to connect easily with next generation components and peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10X faster and is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 components.

PCIe 3.0 Ready

The latest PCI Express bus standard delivers improved encoding for 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). PCIe 3.0 provides users unprecedented data speeds, combined with the convenicnce and seamless transition offered by complete backward compatibility with PCIe 1.0 and PCIe 2.0 devices. It is a must-have feature PC users aiming

to improve and optimize graphics performance, as well as have the latest, most future-proof

technology.

* This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Functions will be available when using PCIe

3.0-compliant devices. Please refer to www.asus.com for updated details.

1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with New DIGI+ Power Control

The world’s rst Dual Intelligent Processors from ASUS pioneered twin onboard chips

- TPU (TurboV Processing Unit) and EPU (Energy Processing Unit). Third generation Dual Intelligent Processors with New DIGI+ Power Control include two digital voltage regulator modules (VRMs). An all-new digital controller now allows ultra-precise DRAM tuning in addition to CPU voltage control. This evolution of innovative and industry-leading

ASUS technology provides super-accurate voltage tuning for better efciency, stability and

performance.

New DIGI+ Power Control

All-New Digital Power Control for both CPU and DRAM

ASUS X79 motherboards include New DIGI+ Power Control with two digital voltage regulator modules (VRMs), including an all-new DRAM controller that allows ultra-precise memory tuning in addition to CPU voltage control. This evolution of innovative, industry-leading ASUS

technology provides super-accurate voltages for better efciency, stability and performance.

Best in class power efciency and stability Two critical components work perfectly together to match digital power signal (SVID) requests

from the CPU, with ultra-fast sensing and response to efciently deliver the right level of

power on demand. Accurate power reduces wasteful imprecision, and provides more stable CPU Vcore voltages.

Increased CPU and DRAM overclocking range With programmable digital controllers onboard, users can adjust CPU and DRAM PWM voltages and frequencies for various overclocking scenarios, with accurate input through UEFI BIOS tuning or the exclusive ASUS interface. System performance can also be

customized with specic CPU and DRAM power controls, including new VCCSA load line

calibration for increased voltage range, greater VCCSA current capability, and up to 30%

more capacitance. This proprietary design, with its precise yet exible power adjustments,

increases overclocking headroom to push performance to its full potential.

Chapter 1

TPU

Unleash your performance with ASUS’ simple onboard switch or AI Suite II utility. The TPU chip offers precise voltage control and advanced monitoring through Auto Tuning and TurboV

functions. Auto tuning offers a user friendly way 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.

EPU

Tap into the world’s rst real-time PC power saving chip through a simple onboard switch or AI Suite II utility. Get total system-wide energy optimization by automatically detecting current

PC loadings and intelligently moderating power consumption. This also reduces fan noise and extends component longevity.

ASUS P9X79 1-3

1.3.3 ASUS Exclusive Features

Chapter 1

USB BIOS Flashback

USB BIOS Flashback offers the most convenient way to ash the BIOS ever! It allows

overclockers to try new BIOS versions easily, without even entering their existing BIOS or operating system. Just plug in USB storage and push the dedicated button for 3 seconds,

and the BIOS is automatically ashed using standby power. Worry-free overclocking for the

ultimate convenience!

USB 3.0 Boost

New ASUS USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol), the

latest USB 3.0 standard. With USB 3.0 Boost, USB device transmission speed is signicantly

increased by up to 170%, adding to an already impressively fast USB 3.0 transfer speed. USB 3.0 Boost provides a user-friendly graphical interface, which instantly accelerates the transfer speeds for USB 3.0 peripherals with exclusive ASUS device auto-detect settings.

AI Suite II

With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all exclusive ASUS features into one simple-to-use package with an elegant design theme. It allows users to supervise overclocking, energy management, fan speeds, voltage, and sensor readings. This all-inone software offers diverse and easy 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 failsafe settings and dramatically improves your system boot success.

1.3.4 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

ASUS Fanless Design—Heat-sink solution

The stylish heatsink offers 0dB cooling for a quiet PC environment. Attractive design enhances the look of the board and case, while temperatures in the chipset and power phase

areas stay lower through high efciency heat exchange. Combining usability and aesthetics,

the stylish ASUS heatsink gives users an extremely silent and cool experience with elegant design.

ASUS Fan Xpert+

Hardware-level ASUS Fan Xpert+ allows users to independently adjust both CPU and case fan speeds with multiple dedicated controllers based on different ambient temperatures,

climate conditions and system loads. Built-in proles offer exible automatic and manual fan

speed controls to achieve a quiet and cool computing environment.

1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.3.5 ASUS EZ DIY

ASUS UEFI BIOS

ASUS UEFI BIOS 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 natively supports fully-utilized hard drives larger than 2.2TB in 64-bit

operating systems.

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 difcult POST situations.

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 Q-Shield

The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual "ngers" - making it

convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).

Chapter 1

ASUS Q-Connector

ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding wrong cable connections.

ASUS 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

Power eSATA 6Gb/s Ready

Powered eSATA 6Gb/s combines data and power connectivity. Users enjoy 2X faster transfer rates, and can use external SATA 6Gb/s devices with no additional power adapters. ASUS provides two extra ports with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the bandwidth of current bus systems for extra speed and accessibility.

* Power eSATA requires a special designed signal cable to provide 5V power for the external SATA

device. The cable is purchased separately.

ASUS P9X79 1-5

DTS UltraPC II

DTS UltraPC II delivers exceptional 7.1 surround through the most popular PC audio setups

- your existing stereo speakers or headphones. In addition to virtual surround, it upgrades

Chapter 1

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.

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.

ErP Ready

The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires

products to meet certain energy efciency requirement in regards to energy consumptions. This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efcient products

through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.

1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.1 Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.

• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.

• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.

• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.

• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.

• Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.

ASUS P9X79 2-1

2.2 Motherboard overview

2.2.1 Motherboard layout

Chapter 2

Refer to

2.2.8 Internal connectors

information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information

and

2.3.11 Rear panel connection

for more

Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page

1. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-5

2. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) 2-30

3. LGA2011 CPU socket 2-4

4. CPU, CPU OPT, Chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)

5. MemOK! 2-17

6. Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])

7. Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])

8. TPU switch 2-18

9. EPU switch 2-19

10. Standby Power LED 2-20

11. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 2-31

12. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 2-22

13. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) 2-26

14. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112,

USB1314)

15. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) 2-26

16. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-27

17. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-29

2-28

2-23

2-24

Chapter 2

2-25

ASUS P9X79 2-3

2.2.2 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA2011 socket designed for the 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Family.

Chapter 2

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

• Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/ transit-related.

• Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise

Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the

LGA2011 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 eight Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline 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.

Recommended memory congurations

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-5

Memory congurations

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, B, C, and D. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel, triple-channel, or quadchannel conguration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then

mapped for single-channel operation.

• Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200/2000/1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3 2133/1866/1600 MHz frequency as default.

• According to Intel® spec, the max. 64GB memory capacity can be supported with DIMMs of 8GB (or above). ASUS will update QVL once the DIMMs are available on the market.

• 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 frequency adjustment.

• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full

memory load (4 DIMMs or above) or overclocking condition.

3.4 Ai Tweaker menu

for manual memory

2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 2400 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

G.SKILL F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP) 4G ( 2x

Transcend TX2400KLU-4GK

(381850)(XMP)

Transcend TX2400KLU-4GK(374243)(XMP) 2GB DS - - - 1.65 •

DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 • •

2G )

2GB DS - - - 1.65 • • •

2 DIMM

4 DIMM 6 DIMM

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 2250 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

KINGSTON KHX2250C9D3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

DS - - - 1.65 • •

2GB )

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 2200 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

G.SKILL F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4G ( 2x

G.SKILL F3-17600CL8D-4GBPS(XMP) 4GB(2 x

G.SKILL F3-17600CL9D-4GBTDS(XMP) 4GB(2 x

GEIL GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

GEIL GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 8GB ( 2x

KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KHA(XMP) 4G ( 2x

KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KJAA-FEIS(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

DS - - 7-10-10-28 1.65 • •

2G )

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •

2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

2GB)

DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 • • • •

4GB )

DS - - - 1.5~1.7 • •

2G )

DS Kingmax N/A - - • •

2GB )

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

8 DIMM

Chapter 2

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 2133 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

A-DATA 8154A 1044(XMP) 2GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.55-1.75 • • •

A-DATA AX3U2133C2G9B(XMP) 2GB SS - - 9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75 • • • •

A-DATA AX3U2133GC2G9B(XMP) 2GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.55-1.75 •

Apacer 78.BAGE4.AFD0C(XMP) 8GB ( 2x

CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2A2133C9(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(Ver7.1

)(XMP)

CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

G.SKILL F3-17066CL9D-

8GBPID(XMP)

GEIL GE34GB2133C9DC(XMP) 4GB(2 x

DS - - 9-9-9-24 - • •

4GB )

DS - - 9-10-9-24 1.65 • •

2GB )

4GB ( 2x

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • •

2GB )

DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •

2GB )

8GB ( 2x

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • •

4GB )

DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65 • • •

2GB)

ASUS P9X79 2-7

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 2133 MHz capability (continued)

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1K2/

KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3W1K2/

KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/

KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1FK4/

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

Chapter 2

DDR3 2000 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

A-DATA AX3U2000GB2G9B(XMP) 2GB DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75 • • • •

A-DATA AX3U2000GC4G9B(XMP) 4GB DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75 • •

Apacer 78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP) 6GB(3 x

CORSAIR CMT6GX3M3A2000C8(XMP) 6GB ( 3x

Crucial BL12864BE2009.8SFB3(EPP) 1GB SS - - 9-9-9-28 2 •

G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB(2 x

G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP) 4GB(2 x

G.SKILL F3-16000CL9T-6GBPS(XMP) 6GB(3 x

GEIL GUP34GB2000C9DC(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3T1K3/

KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3T1K2/

KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3W1K2/

KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3T1K3/

KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3W1K3/

Kingston KHX2000C9AD3W1K3/

OCZ OCZ3B2000LV6GK 6GB(3 x

Transcend TX2000KLN-8GK

AEXEA AXA3ES2G2000LG28V(XMP) 2GB DS - - - 1.65 • • •

Gingle FA3URSS673A801A 2GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 - • •

Patriot PX7312G2000ELK(XMP) 12GB (

Patriot PV736G2000ELK(XMP) 6GB ( 3x

4GX(XMP)

8GX(XMP)

3GX(XMP)

4GX(XMP)

6GX(XMP)

(388375)(XMP)

4 DIMM 6 DIMM

4GB ( 2x

DS - - - 1.65 •

2GB )

4GB ( 2x

DS - - 9 1.65 • •

2GB )

4GB ( 2x

DS - - 9 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

4GB ( 2x

DS - - 9 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

4GB ( 2x

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • •

2GB )

DS -

8GB ( 4x 2GB )

DS - - 9-9-9-27 - • • •

2GB)

DS - - 8-9-8-24 1.65 • • •

2GB )

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

3GB ( 3x

SS - - - 1.65 • • •

1GB )

4GB ( 2x

DS - - 9 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

4GB ( 2x

DS - - 9 1.65 •

2GB )

4GB ( 2x

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

6GB ( 3x

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

2GB )

6GB ( 3x

DS - - - 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

6GB ( 3x

DS - - 9 1.65 •

2GB )

6GB ( 3x

DS - - 9 1.65 •

2GB )

DS - - 7-8-7 1.65 •

2GB)

4GB DS - - - 1.6 • • • •

DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 • •

3x 4GB )

DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 • • •

2GB )

- 9

2 DIMM

1.65

• •

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

• •

8 DIMM

2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 1866 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

A-DATA AX3U1866GC2G9B(XMP) 2GB SS - - 9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75

A-DATA AX3U1866GC4G9B(XMP) 4GB DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP) 8GB ( 2x 4GB )DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-

16GBXL(XMP)

G.SKILL F3-15000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9D-8GBSR(XMP) 8GB ( 2x 4GB )DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-

8GBFLD(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3T1K3/

3GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3T1K3/

6GX(XMP)

OCZ OCZ3G1866LV4GK 4GB ( 2x 2GB )DS - - 10-10-10 1.65

OCZ OCZ3P1866C9LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65

Super

W1866UX2G8(XMP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 -

Talent

Patriot PXD34G1866ELK(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB )SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65

Team TXD32048M1866C9(XMP) 2GB DS Team T3D1288RT-16 9-9-9-24 1.65

16GB ( 4x

DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5

4GB )

8GB ( 2x 4GB )DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6

3GB ( 3x 1GB )SS - - - 1.65

6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

• • •

• • • •

• •

• • •

• •

•

• •

•

• • •

•

• • • •

• •

•

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 1800 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

G.SKILL F3-14400CL9D-

4GBRL(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1800C9D3T1K3/

6GX(XMP)

4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6 • •

6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65 • • • •

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

A-DATA AX3U1600XC2G79(XMP) 2GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6-1.8 •

A-DATA AX3U1600GC4G9(XMP) 4GB DS - - - 1.55~1.75 • • • •

A-DATA AX3U1600PC4G8(XMP) 4GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.55~1.75 • • • •

CORSAIR HX3X12G1600C9(XMP) 12GB ( 6x 2GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6 • • •

CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • •

CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 • • •

CORSAIR CMD4GX3M2B1600C8 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •

CORSAIR CMD4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C7(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP) 6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

CORSAIR CMX6GX3M3A1600C9(XMP) 6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMX6GX3M3C1600C7(XMP) 6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS - - 7-8-7-20 1.65 • • •

CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8D(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMP8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 8GB ( 2x 4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-9

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 1600 MHz capability (continued)

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 8GB ( 2x

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 8GB ( 2x

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M4A1600C8(XMP) 8GB(4 x

Crucial BL12864BN1608.8FF(XMP) 2GB( 2x

Crucial BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP) 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •

Crucial

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7Q-

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9Q-

Chapter 2

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB( 2x

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB(2 x

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-8GBRH(XMP) 8GB ( 2x

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-8GBXH(XMP) 8GB ( 2x

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL(XMP) 8GB ( 2x

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-

GEIL GET316GB1600C9QC(XMP) 16GB ( 4x

GEIL GUP34GB1600C7DC(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

KINGMAX FLGD45F-B8MF7(XMP) 1GB SS - - - - • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB ( 3x

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB( 3x

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K6/24GX(XMP) 24GB ( 6x

KINGSTON KHX1600C7D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3B1K2/

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3LK2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X1K2/4G 4GB ( 2x

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X2K2/

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB ( 3x

4GB )

2GB)

1GB )

BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP) 4GB( 2x

16GBXH(XMP)

16GBXL(XMP)

4GBECO(XMP)

8GBSR2(XMP)

8GBECO(XMP)

12GX(XMP)

4GX(XMP)

2GB )

16GB ( 4x 4GB )

2GB )

2GB)

4GB(2 x 2GB)

4GB )

8GB ( 2x 4GB )

8GB ( 2x4GB )

4GB )

2GB )

4GB )

12GB ( 3x 4GB )

4GB )

2GB )

4GB ( 2x 2GB )

2GB )

4GB ( 2x 2GB )

2GB )

4 DIMM 6 DIMM

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5 • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 •

SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •

8-8-8-24 1.65

DS -

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6 • • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • • •

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6 •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.6 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.35 • •

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6 • • • •

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6 • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.25 • • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.35 • •

DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.6 • • • •

DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.6 • • •

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

DS - - - 1.65 • • •

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

DS - - - 1.65 • •

DS - - 8 1.65 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

DS - - - 1.65 • •

DS - - - 1.65 • • • •

DS - - - 1.65 • • •

DS - - - 1.65 • •

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

-

2 DIMM

•

8 DIMM

•

2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 1600 MHz capability (continued)

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/

6GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/

6GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/

6GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3P1K2/8G 8GB ( 2x

OCZ OCZ3G16004GK 4GB ( 2x

OCZ OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4GB( 2x

OCZ OCZ3OB1600LV4GK 4GB(2 x

OCZ OCZ3X1600LV4GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x

OCZ OCZ3G1600LV6GK 6GB(3 x

OCZ OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x

Super Talent WP160UX4G9(XMP) 4GB(2 x

Super Talent WB160UX6G8(XMP) 6GB(3 x

Transcend JM1600KLN-8GK 8GB DS Transcend TK483PCW3 - - • • • •

Asint SLZ3128M8-EGJ1D(XMP) 2GB DS Asint 3128M8-GJ1D - - • • •

EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP) 4GB( 2x

EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP) 4GB(2 x

GoodRam GR1600D364L9/2G 2GB DS GoodRam GF1008KC-JN - - • • • •

KINGTIGER KTG2G1600PG3(XMP) 2GB DS - - - - • •

Mushkin 996805(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

Mushkin 998805(XMP) 6GB ( 3x

Patriot PX7312G1600LLK(XMP) 12GB ( 3x

Patriot PGS34G1600LLKA2 4GB ( 2x

Patriot PGS34G1600LLKA 4GB( 2x

PATRIOT PGS34G1600LLKA 4GB(2 x

Patriot PX538G1600LLK(XMP) 8GB ( 2x

Team TXD31024M1600C8-D(XMP) 1GB SS Team T3D1288RT-16 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

Team TXD32048M1600C7-L(XMP) 2GB DS Team T3D1288LT-16 7-7-7-24 1.65 •

Team TXD32048M1600HC8-

D(XMP)

6GB ( 3x

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

2GB )

6GB ( 3x

DS - - - 1.65 • • •

2GB )

6GB ( 3x

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

2GB )

DS - - 9 1.5 •

4GB )

DS - - 8-8-8 1.7 •

2GB )

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • •

2GB )

DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 • •

2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 •

2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 •

2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • • • •

2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • • •

2GB)

DS - - 9 - • •

2GB)

DS - - - - • •

2GB)

DS - - 8 - • •

2GB)

DS - - 9 - • •

2GB )

DS - - 9 - • •

2GB)

DS - - 6-8-6-24 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

DS - - 6-8-6-24 1.65 • • • •

2GB )

DS - - 8-9-8-24 1.65 • • • •

4GB )

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.7 • • •

2GB )

DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 • •

2GB )

DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 •

2GB)

DS - - 8-9-8-24 1.65 • • • •

4GB )

2GB DS Team T3D1288RT-16 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-11

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 1333 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

A-DATA

Apacer

CORSAIR

Crucial

ELPIDA

Chapter 2

ELPIDA

G.SKILL

GEIL

Hynix

KINGMAX

KINGSTON

AD63I1B0823EV

AXDU1333GC2G9(XMP)

AD63I1C1624EV

SU3U1333W8G9(XMP)

78.01GC6.9L0

78.A1GC6.9L1

78.B1GDE.9L10C

TW3X4G1333C9A

CMX8GX3M2A1333C9(XMP)

CMX8GX3M4A1333C9

BL25664BN1337.16FF(XMP)

EBJ10UE8BDF0-DJ-F

EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F

EBJ20UF8BCF0-DJ-F

EBJ21UE8BDF0-DJ-F

F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT

F3-10666CL7D4GBRH(XMP)

F3-10666CL8D4GBECO(XMP)

F3-10666CL7D8GBRH(XMP)

F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL

F3-10666CL9D-8GBXL

GG34GB1333C9DC

GVP34GB1333C9DC

GB34GB1333C7DC

GG34GB1333C9DC

GVP38GB1333C9DC

HMT112U6TFR8A-H9

HMT325U6BFR8C-H9

HMT125U6BFR8C-H9

HMT125U6TFR8A-H9

HMT351U6BFR8C-H9

FLFE85F-C8KL9

FLFE85F-C8KM9

FLFE85F-B8KL9

FLFF65F-C8KL9

FLFF65F-C8KM9

KVR1333D3N9/1G

KVR1333D3S8N9/2G

KVR1333D3N9/2G

Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

2GB SS A-DATA 3CCA-1509A - - • • •

2GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.25~1.35 • • • •

4GB DS A-DATA 3CCA-1509A - - • • • •

8GB DS ELPIDA J4208BASE-DJ-F - - • • • •

1GB SS Apacer AM5D5808DEJSBG 9 - • • •

2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808FEQSBG 9 - • • •

4GB DS Apacer AM5D5908CEHSBG 9 - • • • •

4GB ( 2x 2GB )

8GB ( 2x 4GB )

8GB(4 x 2GB)

2GB DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65 • • •

1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F - - • •

1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - • • •

2GB SS Elpida J2108BCSE-DJ-F - - • •

2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F - - • •

4GB ( 2x 2GB )

4GB(2 x 2GB)

8GB ( 2x 4GB )

4GB ( 2x 2GB )

4GB(2 x 2GB)

8GB ( 2x 4GB )

1GB SS Hynix H5TC1G83TFR - - • • •

2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR - - • • •

2GB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83BFRH9C 9 - • • •

2GB DS Hynix H5TC1G83TFR - - • • •

4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR - - • • •

2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A - - • • •

2GB SS Kingmax KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • • • •

2GB DS KINGMAX KFB8FNLXL-BNF-15A - - •

4GB DS KINGMAX KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A - - • • • •

4GB DS Kingmax KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • • • •

1GB SS Elpida J1108BDSE-DJ-F 9 1.5 • • •

2GB SS Micron IFD77 D9LGK - 1.5 • • • •

2GB DS Elpida J1108BDBG-DJ-F - 1.5 •

2GB DS Kingston D1288JPNDPLD9U 9 1.5 • • •

Brand

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •

DS G.SKILL D3 128M8CE9 2GB 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • •

DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5 • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.35 • • •

DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5 •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • • •

DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA115FW 9-9-9-24 1.3 • •

DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA15B 9-9-9-24 1.3 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • •

DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA15FW 7-7-7-24 1.5 • •

DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA12N 9-9-9-24 1.3 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • • •

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

2-12 Chapter 2: Hardware information

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 1333 MHz capability (continued)

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

KINGSTON KHX1333C9D3UK2/

4GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9K2/4G 4GB (

KINGSTON KVR1333D3E9S/4G 4GB DS Elpida J2108ECSE-DJ-F 9 1.5 • • •

MICRON MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1 1GB SS Micron D9LGQ - - • • •

MICRON MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1 2GB SS Micron D9LGK - - • • •

MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1

MICRON

MICRON MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4M1 2GB SS MICRON D9PFJ - - • • • •

MICRON MT16JTF51264AZ-

1G4D1

MICRON MT16JTF51264AZ-

1G4M1

OCZ OCZ3P1333LV3GK 3GB(3

OCZ OCZ3G1333LV4GK 4GB (

OCZ OCZ3P1333LV4GK 4GB(2

OCZ OCZ3G1333LV8GK 8GB (

OCZ OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK 8GB (

PSC PC310600U-9-10-A0 1GB SS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - - • • • •

PSC PC310600U-9-10-B0 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B2873EH1-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E - - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B2873FHS-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B5773DH0-CH9 2GB SS SAMSUNG K4B2G08460 - - • • • •

SAMSUNG M378B5673EH1-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E - - • •

SAMSUNG M378B5673FH0-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CH9 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9 9 - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH9 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C K4B2G0846C - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B5273DH0-CH9 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G08460 - - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B1G73AH0-CH9 8GB DS SAMSUNG K4B4G0846A-HCH9 - - • •

Super Talent W1333UX2G8(XMP) 2GB(2

Transcend JM1333KLN-2G (582670) 2GB SS Micron ICD77 C9LGK - - • •

Transcend JM1333KLN-2G 2GB SS Transcend TK483PCW3 - - • • • •

Transcend TS256MLK64V3N (

585541 )

Transcend TS256MLK64V3N

(566577)

Transcend TS256MLK64V3N

(574206)

Transcend JM1333KLN-4G ( 583782 )4GB DS Transcend TK483PCW3 9 - • •

Transcend JM1333KLN-4G 4GB DS Transcend TK483PCW3 9-9-9-24 - • • • •

Transcend TS512MLK64V3N (

585538 )

Transcend TS512MLK64V3N

(389889)

Transcend TS512MLK64V3N

(574831)

4GB (

DS - - 9 1.25 • • • 2x 2GB )

DS KINGSTON D1288JEMFPGD9U - 1.5 • • • 2x 2GB )

D9LGK -

2GB SS

4GB DS Micron D9LGK - - • • •

4GB DS Micron IGM22 D9PFJ - - •

x 1GB)

2x 2GB )

x 2GB)

2x 4GB )

x 1GB)

2GB SS Micron ICD77 D9LGK 9 - • • • •

2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR 9 - • • •

2GB SS Micron D9LGK 9 - • • •

4GB DS Micron IED27 D9LGK 9 - • • • •

4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR 9 - •

4GB DS Micron D9LGK 9 - • • • •

Micron

SS - - 7-7-7 1.65 • • • •

DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 • •

DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 • •

DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 • •

DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 •

DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 • •

SS - - 8 1.8 •

2 DIMM 4 DIMM

- •

•

6 DIMM

• •

8 DIMM

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-13

P9X79 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 1333 MHz capability (continued)

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional)

ACTICA ACT1GHU64B8F1333S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - -

ACTICA ACT1GHU72C8G1333S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC) - -

ACTICA ACT2GHU64B8G1333M 2GB DS Micron D9KPT - -

ACTICA ACT2GHU64B8G1333S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - -

ACTICA ACT2GHU72D8G1333M 2GB DS Micron D9KPT(ECC) - -

ACTICA ACT2GHU72D8G1333S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC) - -

ACTICA ACT4GHU64B8H1333H 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR - -

ACTICA ACT4GHU72D8H1333H 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR(ECC) - -

ATP AQ56M72E8BJH9S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC) - -

ATP AQ12M72E8BKH9S 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C(ECC) - -

BUFFALO D3U1333-1G 1GB SS Elpida J1108BFBG-DJ-F - -

BUFFALO D3U1333-2G 2GB DS Elpida J1108BFBG-DJ-F -

BUFFALO D3U1333-4G 4GB DS NANYA NT5CB256M8BN-CG -

EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13 4GB(2 x

Chapter 2

Elixir M2F2G64CB88B7N-CG 2GB SS Elixir N2CB2G808N-CG - -

Elixir M2F2G64CB88D7N-CG 2GB SS Elixir M2CB2G8BDN-CG - -

Elixir M2F2G64CB88G7N-CG 2GB SS Elxir N2CB2G80GN-CG - -

Elixir M2F4G64CB8HB5N-CG 4GB DS Elixir N2CB2G808N-CG - -

Elixir M2F4G64CB8HD5N-CG 4GB DS Elixir M2CB2G8BDN-CG - -

GoodRam GR1333D364L9/2G 2GB DS Qimonda IDSH1G-03A1F1C-13H - -

KINGTIGER F10DA2T1680 2GB DS KINGTIGER KTG1333PS1208NST-C9 - -

KINGTIGER KTG2G1333PG3 2GB DS - - - -

Patriot PSD32G13332 2GB DS Prtriot PM128M8D3BU-15 9 -

Patriot PGS34G1333LLKA 4GB(2 x

RiDATA C304627CB1AG22Fe 2GB DS RiDATA C304627CB1AG22Fe 9 -

RiDATA E304459CB1AG32Cf 4GB DS RiDATA E304459CB1AG32Cf 9 -

Silicon Power SP001GBLTE133S01 1GB SS NANYA NT5CB128M8AN-CG - -

Silicon Power SP001GBLTU1333S01 1GB SS NANYA NT5CB128M8AN-CG - -

Silicon Power SP001GBLTU133S02 1GB SS S-POWER 10YT3E5 9 -

Silicon Power SP002GBLTE133S01 2GB DS NANYA NT5CB128M8AN-CG - -

Silicon Power SP002GBLTU133S02 2GB DS S-POWER I0YT3E0 9 -

Team TXD31024M1333C7(XMP) 1GB SS Team T3D1288LT-13 7-7-7-21 1.75

Team TXD31048M1333C7-

Team TXD32048M1333C7-

UMAX E41302GP0-73BDB 2GB DS UMAX U2S24D30TP-13 - -

D(XMP)

DS - - 9 -

2GB)

DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7

2GB)

1GB SS Team T3D1288LT-13 7-7-7-21 1.75

2GB DS Team T3D1288LT-13 7-7-7-21 1.5-1.6

2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM

• • •

• • • •

• • •

• • • •

• • •

• • • •

• • •

• •

• • • •

• •

• • • •

• • •

•

• • • •

•

• • •

• •

•

• When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows 32-bit operation system

may only recognize less than 3GB. Hence, a total installed memory of less than 3GB is

recommended.

• The default DIMM frequency depends 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

• ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function.

• Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load the X.M.P. or D.O.C.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support.

• Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.

2-14 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.4 Expansion slots

Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

Slot No. Slot Description

1 PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x16/x16 mode)

2 PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot

3 PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot

4 PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slot (dual at x16/x16 mode)

5 PCI slot 1

6 PCIe 3.0 x16_3 slot (at x8 mode)

Chapter 2

VGA conguration

Single VGA/PCIe card

Dual VGA/PCIe card

ASUS P9X79 2-15

PCI Express operating mode

PCIe x16_1 PCIe x16_2 PCIe x16_3

x16 (Recommend for single VGA)

x16 x16 N/A

N/A N/A

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

Chapter 2

PCIEX16_1 shared – – – – – – –

PCIEX16_2 shared – – – – – – –

PCIEX16_3 shared – – – – – – – PCIEX1_1 – – – shared – – – – PCIEX1_2 shared – – – – – – – PCI1 shared – – – – – – – USB 3.0 #1 – shared – – – – – – USB 3.0 #2 – – – shared – – – –

E-SATA shared – – – – – – –

Intel LAN – – shared – – – – –

On Chip USB1 – – – – – – shared

On Chip USB2 – – – – – – – shared

On Chip SATA – – – – shared – – – IEEE 1394 – shared – – – – – – HD Audio – – – – – – shared –

• In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (blue) for a PCI Express x16 graphics card to get better performance.

• In CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 and PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slots for PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance.

• We recommend that you provide sufcient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™

mode. Refer to page 2-30 for details.

• Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. See page 2-28 for details.

A B C D E F G H

2-16 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.5 Onboard switches

Onboard switches allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-

case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance.

1. MemOK! switch

Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! switch until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.

Chapter 2

• Refer to section

• The DRAM_LED also lights when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.

• The MemOK! switch does not function under Windows™ OS environment.

• During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.

• Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones

recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on

the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

• If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.

• If your system fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch to boot and load BIOS default settings. A messgae will appear during POST reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.

• We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.

ASUS P9X79 2-17

2.2.6 Onboard LEDs

for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.

2. TPU switch

Turning this switch to clock speeds.

will automatically optimize the system for fast, yet stable

Enable

Chapter 2

For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to powered off.

• The TPU LED (O2LED2) near the TPU switch lights when the switch setting is turned to

. Refer to section

Enable

LED.

• If you change the switch setting to function will be activated after the next system bootup.

• You may use the TurboV and Auto Tuning feature in the TurboV EVO application, adjust the BIOS setup program, or enable the TPU switch at the same time. However, the system will use the last setting you have made.

2.2.6 Onboard LEDs

Enable

for the exact location of the TPU

under the OS environment, the TPU

when the system is

Enable

2-18 Chapter 2: Hardware information

3. EPU switch

Turning this switch to

will automatically detect the current PC loadings and

Enable

intelligently moderate the power consumption.

For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to powered off.

• The EPU LED (O2LED3) near the EPU switch lights when the switch setting is turned to

. Refer to section

Enable

LED.

• If you change the switch setting to function will be activated after the next system bootup.

• You may change the EPU settings in the software application or BIOS setup program, and enable the EPU function at the same time. However, the system will use the last setting you have made.

2.2.6 Onboard LEDs

Enable

for the exact location of the EPU

under the OS environment, the EPU

when the system is

Enable

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-19

2.2.6 Onboard LEDs

1. Standby Power LED

The Standby Power LED will light up once the system is connected to a power source.

Chapter 2

2. Q-LEDs

These ID LEDs of CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD indicate key component status during POST (Power-on Self Test), providing an elegant embellishment to the motherboard design. The LED lights will ash sequentially during system bootup. If an error is found, the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitional way to locate the root problem within a second.

2-20 Chapter 2: Hardware information

3. TPU LED

The TPU LED lights when the TPU switch is turned to

Enable

.

4. EPU LED

The EPU LED lights when the EPU switch is turned to

Enable

Chapter 2

.

ASUS P9X79 2-21

2.2.7 Jumper

1. 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.

Chapter 2

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 <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

• If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the battery.

• You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter settings to default values.

• Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R. function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before rebooting the system.

2-22 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.8 Internal connectors

1. Intel® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])

These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables.

If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10

conguration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® X79

chipset.

•

These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.4 SATA Conguration for details.

• Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID congurations or the manual

bundled in the motherboard support DVD.

•

When using NCQ, set the

3.5.4 SATA Conguration

•

You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.

SATA Mode

for details.

in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer to section

Chapter 2

IRST driver note for OS installation

•

Windows XP:

32 bit: Intel IRST driver for X79 platform will NOT support Windows XP 32 bit. Please set to [IDE Mode] for OS installation.

64 bit: When [SATA Mode] is set to [AHCI Mode][RAID Mode], it is necessary to load IRST Driver from driver disk during OS Windows XP 64 bit installation for the system to detect the storage devices. For details, please refer to the section "4.5 Create a RAID driver disk".

•

Windows 7 & Vista:

Driver during Windows 7 or Vista installation for the system to detect the Optical Disk Drive (the ODD should be connected to the Intel SATA ports), or else the ODD will not run. We strongly recommend you save the IRST Driver from SCD to the USB Flash Drive before OS installation.

ASUS P9X79 2-23

When [SATA Mode] is set to [RAID Mode], you must load IRST

2. Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])

These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc drives via Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s signal cables.

If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10

conguration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® X79

chipset.

Chapter 2

•

These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.4 SATA Conguration for details.

• Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID congurations or the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.

•

When using NCQ, set the

3.5.4 SATA Conguration

•

You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.

SATA Mode

for details.

in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer to section

IRST driver note for OS installation

•

Windows XP:

32 bit: Intel IRST driver for X79 platform will NOT support Windows XP 32 bit. Please set to [IDE Mode] for OS installation.

64 bit: When [SATA Mode] is set to [AHCI Mode][RAID Mode], it is necessary to load IRST Driver from driver disk during OS Windows XP 64 bit installation for the system to detect the storage devices. For details, please refer to the section "4.5 Create a RAID driver disk".

•

Windows 7 & Vista:

Driver during Windows 7 or Vista installation for the system to detect the Optical Disk Drive (the ODD should be connected to the Intel SATA ports), or else the ODD will not run. We strongly recommend you save the IRST Driver from SCD to the USB Flash Drive before OS installation.

2-24 Chapter 2: Hardware information

When [SATA Mode] is set to [RAID Mode], you must load IRST

3. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78; USB910; USB1112; USB1314)

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 specication that supports up to

480 Mbps connection speed.

Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard!

You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) rst, and

then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.

Chapter 2

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

ASUS P9X79 2-25

4. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which can securely

store keys, digital certicates, passwords, and data. A TPM system also helps enhance

network security, protects digital identities, and ensures platform integrity.

Chapter 2

5. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)

This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

2-26 Chapter 2: Hardware information

6. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-27

7. CPU, CPU OPT, Chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3/4)

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.

Chapter 2

Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient 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 the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.

• Only the CPU_FAN and CHA_FAN1/2/3/4 connectors support the ASUS Fan Xpert+ feature.

• If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2 for better thermal environment.

2-28 Chapter 2: Hardware information

8. 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.

• We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-denition audio capability.

• If you want to connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector, setIf you want to connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector, set

the

Front Panel Type

front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to connector is set to

item in the BIOS setup to

.

[HD]

if you want to connect an AC'97

[HD];

. By default, this

[AC97]

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-29

9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)

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.

Chapter 2

• For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version) and provides a

minimum power of 450 W.

• Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system

will not boot.

• Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when conguring a system

with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

• If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.

• If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at

com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us

http://support.asus.

for details.

2-30 Chapter 2: Hardware information

10. System panel connector (20-8 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 IDE_LED)

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.

• System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)

This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

• ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)

This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF.

• 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.

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-31

2.3 Building your computer system

2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system

1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver

Chapter 2

PC chassis Power supply unit

Intel LGA 2011 CPU Intel LGA 2011 compatible CPU Fan

DIMM SATA hard disk drive

SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional)

The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.

2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.3.2 CPU installation

B

A

Load lever

C

B

A

B

A

Please note the order in opening/ closing the double latch. Follow the instructions printed on the metal sealing hatch or the illustrations shown below in this manual. The plastic cap will pop up automatically once the CPU is in place and the hatch properly sealed down.

1 2

3 4

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-33

B

A

B

A

Triangle

mark

5 6

Chapter 2

7 8

9

2-34 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation

A

B

A

Apply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before you install the heatsink and fan if necessary.

To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

1 2

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-35

2.3.4 DIMM installation

1

2

Chapter 2

3

To remove a DIMM

B

A

2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.3.5 Motherboard installation

The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same.

1

2

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-37

3

Chapter 2

DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

2-38 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.3.6 ATX Power connection

1

2

OR OR

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-39

2.3.7 SATA device connection

1

OR

Chapter 2

2

OR

2-40 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.3.8 Front I/O Connector

IDE_LED

POWER SW

RESET SW

IDE_LED-

IDE_LED+

PWR

Reset

Ground

To install ASUS Q-Connector

1 2

To install USB 2.0 Connector To install front panel audio connector

Chapter 2

AAFP

USB 2.0

ASUS P9X79 2-41

2.3.9 Expansion Card installation

To install PCIe x16 cards

Chapter 2

To install PCIe x1 cards

2-42 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.3.10 USB BIOS Flashback

1. Download the BIOS ROM le from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com). Save the ROM le to a USB portable disk.

2. On the rear I/O port, plug the USB disk to the USB port with the WHITE interior. (See rectangle box in the image below)

3. Press the BIOS Flashback button for 3 seconds, and the light will begin to ash (on the

third second).

4. The BIOS Flashback function is enabled once the light starts to ash.

5. The ashing rate of the light signal accelerates along with the updating speed.

6. When the ashing light stop, the BIOS updating has been complete.

Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process causing the system unable to reboot, please contact the local service station for help.

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-43

2.3.11 Rear panel connection

5 6 7 8 9 11 12

2 3 41

10

Chapter 2

Rear panel connectors

1. PS/2 keyboard and mouse port 7. IEEE 1394a port

2. USB 2.0 ports

3. External SATA port

4. Intel® LAN (RJ-45) port* 10. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3, and 4

5. USB 3.0 ports 3 and 4 11. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2

6. Power eSATA 6G port 12. Audio I/O ports**

8. Optical S/PDIF Out port

9. USB BIOS Flashback button

* and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LED and audio port denitions.

2-44 Chapter 2: Hardware information

• Use Clear RTC RAM jumper to clear CMOS switch to clear BIOS setup information only when the system hangs due to overclocking.

• DO NOT insert a different connector to the external SATA port.

• 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.

• If you want to use the hot-plug function of the external SATA ports, you have to set the

ASMedia® 1061 SATA controllers

the

ASMedia® SATA Controller Driver

section

3.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguration

item in the BIOS setting to [AHCI Mode] and install

from the motherboard support DVD. Refer to

for details.

*LAN ports LED indications

Activity Link LED Speed LED

Status Description Status Description

OFF No link OFF 10 Mbps connection

ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection

BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection

ACT/LINK

LED

LAN port

SPEED

LED

** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration

Port Headset

2-channel

Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In

Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In

Orange – – Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer

Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out

Gray – – – Side Speaker Out

4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

Chapter 2

ASUS P9X79 2-45

2.3.12 Audio I/O connections

Audio I/O ports

Connect to Headphone and Mic

Chapter 2

Connect to Stereo Speakers

Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers

2-46 Chapter 2: Hardware information

Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers

Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers

Chapter 2

Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers

When the DTS UltraPC II function is enabled, ensure to connect the rear speaker to the gray port.

ASUS P9X79 2-47

2.4 Starting up for the rst time

1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.

2. Be sure that all switches are off.

3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis.

4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector.

5. Turn on the devices in the following order:

a. Monitor

b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)

c. System power

6. After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up. For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with the “green” standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up or change from orange to green

Chapter 2

after the system LED turns on.

The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are running, the

BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table below) or additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance.

BIOS Beep Description

One short beep VGA detected

One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated) One continuous beep followed by three short beeps

One continuous beep followed by four short beeps

Quick boot set to disabled No keyboard detected No memory detected

No VGA detected

Hardware component failure

7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3.

2.5 Turning off the computer

While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting.

2-48 Chapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 3

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS

The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is an Unied Extensible Firmware Interface that complies with

UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-

only BIOS controls to enable more exible and convenient mouse input. Users can easily

navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system. The

term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specied.

BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage

device conguration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device conguration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In normal

circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure optimum performance. We recommend that you not change the default BIOS settings except in the following circumstances:

• An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you to run the BIOS Setup.

• You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or update.

Inappropriate settings of the BIOS may result to instability or failure to boot. We strongly

recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service personnel.ç

3.2 BIOS setup program

A BIOS setup program is provided for BIOS item modication. When you start up the

computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility. Otherwise, POST continues with its test routines.

If you wish to enter Setup after POST, press <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or press the reset button on the system chassis to restart the system. You can also turn the system off and then

turn it back on to restart the system. Do this last option only if the rst two failed.

• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

• Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard 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 3.9 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 sectionSee section 2.2.7 Jumper for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.

• The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.

The BIOS setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various submenus and select from the available options using a keyboard or a USB mouse.

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.

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-1

3.2.1 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.

The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the

Setup Mode item in sectionsection 3.7 Boot memu for details.

Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage output, CPU/CPU_OPT/Chassis fan speed

Chapter 3

Quick switch to frequently used menus.

Selects the boot device priority

Selects the display language of the BIOS setup program

Power Saving mode

Displays the system properties of the selected mode on the right hand side

Clicks to display all fan

speeds if available

Exits the BIOS setup program without saving the changes, saves the changes and resets the system, or enters the Advanced Mode

Loads optimized default

Normal mode ASUS Optimal mode

Selects the boot device priority

• 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.

3-2 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.2.2 Advanced Mode

The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to congure the BIOS settings. The gure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed congurations.

To access the EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode.

Submenu item

Menu items

Menu bar

Conguration elds

Scroll barPop-up window

General help

Chapter 3

Navigation keys

Menu bar

The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:

Main For changing the basic system conguration

Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Monitor For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings.

Boot For changing the system boot conguration

Tool For conguring options for special functions

Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

ASUS P9X79

3-3

Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic 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 conguration

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

Chapter 3

program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. Press <F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removeable storage device. Press <F3> key for BIOS option shortcut.

General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.

Conguration elds

These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-congurable, you can change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not user-congurable.

A congurable eld is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a eld, select it and

press <Enter> to display a list of options.

3-4 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.3 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.

Security

The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 2.2.7 Jumper 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.

3-5

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 Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press

<Enter>.

3. From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.

4. Conrm 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/conrm the password. After you clear

the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

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.

Chapter 3

To set a user password:

1. Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change a user password:

1. Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press

<Enter>.

3. From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press

<Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear the password, the

User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

3-6 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.4 Ai Tweaker menu

The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to congure 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 conguration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you

installed on the motherboard.

Scroll down to display the following items:

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-7

Scroll down to display the following items:

Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]

Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal

frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking conguration options:

[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Manual] Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.

[X.M.P.] If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Prole

Chapter 3

(X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the proles supported by your memory modules for optimizing the system performance.

The following three items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner item to [Manual].

BCLK Frequency [XXX]

Allows you to adjust the CPU and VGA frequency to enhance the system performance. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value

using the numeric keypad. The values range from 80.0MHz to 300.0MHz.

CPU Strap [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [100MHz] [125MHz] [166MHz] [250MHz]

ClockGen Full Reset [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enabled for better overclocking.

[Disabled] To skip system shutdown at BCLK frequency adjustment.

3-8 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Turbo Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to manually adjust the Trubo CPU ratio.

[Auto] All Turbo ratio are set by Intel CPU default settings

[By ALL Cores (Can Adjust in OS)] All numbers of active cores will be set to one single Turbo

[By Per Core (Cannot Adjust in OS)] All numbers of active cores can be set to an individual

ratio in OS

Turbo ratio in BIOS.

CPU Clock Gen Filter [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]

Memory Frequency [Auto]

Forces a DDR3 frequency slower than the common tCK detected via SPD.

Conguration options: [Auto] [DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz] [DDR3_1333MHz] [DDR31600MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR3_2133MHz] [DDR3_2400MHz] [DDR3_2666MHz]

Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting.

EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

EPU Setting [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the EPU Power Saving Mode item to [Enabled.] and allows you to select the EPU power saving mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Light Power Saving Mode] [Medium Power Saving Mode] [Max

Power Saving Mode]

OC Tuner

OC Tuner automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of CPU and DRAM for

enhancing the system performance. Conguration options: [OK] [Cancel]

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-9

3.4.1 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 the <Enter> key.

Chapter 3

Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default settings.

Scroll down to display the following items:

3-10 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Scroll down to display the following items:

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-11

Scroll down to display the following items:

Primary Timings

DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 3 to 15 with 1 interval.The values range from 3 to 15 with 1 interval.

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.

Chapter 3

DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.

DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 40 with 1 interval.The values range from 4 to 40 with 1 interval.

DRAM COMMAND Mode [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1 to 3 with 1 interval.The values range from 1 to 3 with 1 interval.

Secondary Timings

DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 7 with 1 interval.The values range from 4 to 7 with 1 interval.

DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 48 to 511 with 1The values range from 48 to 511 with 1 interval.

DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 5 to 31 with 1 interval.The values range from 5 to 31 with 1 interval.

3-12 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.

DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 16 to 63 with 1 interval.The values range from 16 to 63 with 1 interval.

DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.The values range from 4 to 15 with 1 interval.

DRAM WRITE Latency [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1 to 15 with 1 interval.

Third Timings

tRRDR [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.

tRRDD [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.

tWWDR [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.

tWWDD [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.

tRWDR [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 15 with 1 interval.

tRWDD [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 15 with 1 interval.

tWRDR [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.

tWRDD [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.

tRWSR [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 15 with 1 interval.

tCCD [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 7 with 1 interval.

Latency Timings

DRAM RTL (CHA D0 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

Chapter 3

ASUS P9X79

3-13

DRAM IOL (CHA D0 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock]

[Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHA D0 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHA D0 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock]

[Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHA D1 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHA D1 R0) [Auto]

Chapter 3

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHA D1 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHA D1 R1) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

3-14 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

DRAM RTL (CHB D0 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHB D0 R0) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHB D0 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHB D0 R1) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHB D1 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHB D1 R0) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

Chapter 3

DRAM RTL (CHB D1 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

ASUS P9X79

3-15

DRAM IOL (CHB D1 R1) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHC D0 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHC D0 R0) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHC D0 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHC D0 R1) [Auto]

Chapter 3

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHC D1 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHC D1 R0) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

3-16 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

DRAM RTL (CHC D1 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHC D1 R1) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHD D0 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHD D0 R0) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHD D0 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHD D0 R1) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHD D1 R0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-17

DRAM IOL (CHD D1 R0) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM RTL (CHD D1 R1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock]

[Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM IOL (CHD D1 R1) [Auto]

[Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 13 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] [Advance 11 Clock] [Advance 10 Clock] [Advance 9 Clock] [Advance 8 Clock] [Advance 7 Clock] [Advance 6 Clock] [Advance 5 Clock] [Advance 4 Clock] [Advance 3 Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 1 Clock] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 3 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] [Delay 5 Clock] [Delay 6 Clock] [Delay 7 Clock] [Delay 8 Clock] [Delay 9 Clock] [Delay 10 Clock] [Delay 11 Clock] [Delay 12 Clock] [Delay 13 Clock] [Delay 14 Clock]

DRAM CLK Period [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]

Enhanced Training (CHA) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

Chapter 3

Enhanced Training (CHB) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

Enhanced Training (CHC) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

Enhanced Training (CHD) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

MCH Duty Sense (CHA) [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1 interval.

MCH Duty Sense (CHB) [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1 interval.

MCH Duty Sense (CHC) [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1 interval.

3-18 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

MCH Duty Sense (CHD) [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0 to 31 with 1 interval.

MCH Recheck [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

3.4.2 DIGI+ Power Control

CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

CPU Load-line is dened by Intel VRM spec and affects CPU voltage. The CPU working

voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration would get higher voltage and better overclocking performance, but increase the CPU and VRM thermal. This item allows you to adjust the voltage range from the following percentages to boost the system performance: 0% (Regular), 25% (Medium), 50% (High), 75% (Ultra High) and 100% (Extreme).

Conguration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Medium] [High] [Ultra High] [Extreme]

The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU speciation.

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-19

CPU Current Capability [Auto]

This item provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.

Conguration options: [Auto] [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]

CPU VCORE Boot Up Voltage [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800 to 1.700 with

0.005 interval.

VCCSA Load-line calibration [Auto]

The behavior of the DRAM controller is decided by VCCSA Load-Line. Set to a higher value for system performance, or to a lower value for better thermal solution.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Regular] [High] [Extreme]

VCCSA Current Capability [100%]

Chapter 3

Conguration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]] [110%] [120%] [130%]

Do not remove the thermal module while changing the DIGI+ Power Control related parameters . The thermal conditions should be monitored.

Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key.

The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU and DRAM specication.

Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

CPU VCCSA Boot Up Voltage [Auto]VCCSA Boot Up Voltage [Auto]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.8 to 1.7 with 0.005The values range from 0.8 to 1.7 with 0.005 interval.

CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto]

Switching frequency will affect the VRM transient response and component thermal. Setting a higher frequency gets faster transient response.

[Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the Spread Spectrum item.

[Manual] Allows you to manually set the frequency with a 10k Hz interval.

CPU Fixed Frequency [xxx]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 300kHz to 500kHz with 10kHz interval.

CPU Spread Spectrum [Disabled]

This item helps enhance system stability.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

3-20 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]

[T.Probe] Maintains the VRM thermal balance.

[Extreme] Maintains the VRM current balance.

CPU Power Phase Control [Auto]

Phase number is the number of woorking VRM phase. Increasing phase number under heavy system loading to get more transient and better thermal performance. Reducing phase

number under light system loading to increase VRM efciency

[Standard] Proceeds phase control depending on the CPU loading.

[Optimized] Loads the ASUS optimized phase tuning prole.

[Extreme] Proceeds the full phase mode.

[Manual Adjustment] Allows manual adjustment.

DRAM-AB Current Capability [100%]

Setting a higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.

Conguration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]

DRAM-AB Voltage Frequency [Auto]

This item allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a xed high DRAM

frequency to increase O.C range or a lower DRAM frequency for better system stability.

Conguration options: [Auto] [manual]

DRAM-AB Power Phase control [Auto]

[Auto] Allows you to set the Auto mode.

[Optimized] Allows you to set ASUS optimized phase tuning prole.

[Extreme] Allows you to set the Full phase mode.

DRAM-CD Current Capability [100%]

Setting a higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.

Conguration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]

DRAM-CD Voltage Frequency [Auto]

This item allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a xed high DRAM

frequency to increase O.C range or a lower DRAM frequency for better system stability.

Conguration options: [Auto] [manual]

DRAM-CD Power Phase control [Auto]

[Auto] Allows you to set the Auto mode.

[Optimized] Allows you to set ASUS optimized phase tuning prole.

[Extreme] Allows you to set the Full phase mode.

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-21

3.4.3 CPU Performance Settings

The items in this menu is setting for CPU Ratio/Features.is setting for CPU Ratio/Features.

CPU Ratio [Auto]

Chapter 3

This item allows user manually adjust the maximum non-turbo CPU ratio, The value will be limit to CPU base or factory setting.

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology, allows the system operation system to dynamically adjust processor voltage and cores frequency, which can result in decreased average power consumption and decreased average heat production.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

It automatically allows processors cores to run faster than the base operating frequency if it’s

operating below power, current and temperature specication limit. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following items appear only when you set the Turbo Mode items to [Enabled].

3-22 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Turbo Mode Parameters

Long Duration Power Limit [Auto]

The default setting of this item will be TDP (130W). For Sandy Bridge-E, Turbo Ratio can be kept a time duration exceed TDP for maximum performance. Any value under 255 can be programmed. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

Long Duration Maintained [Auto]

This value can vary from 1 to 32, which indicates the time window for Turbo Ratio over TDP should be maintained. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

Short Duration Power Limit [Auto]

This is the second power limit to provide rapid protection when package power exceeds Power Limit 1. Default setting is 1.25 times Power Limit 1. For Intel recommend, platform must be capable of supporting over Power Limit 2 for up to 10 msec. ASUS board can support over Power Limit 2 for a long duration. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

Additional Turbo Voltage [Auto]

This item allows user to set the maximum additional voltage applies to the CPU when Turbo Boost is engaged. Use <+> and <-> key to adjust the value.

CPU Core Current Limit [Auto]

This item allows user to enter CPU Current Limit, unit in 0.125A. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.

CPU VCORE Voltage [Offset Mode]

[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a xed CPU VCORE voltage.

[Offset Mode] Allows you to set the CPU VCORE Offset voltage.

CPU VCORE Manual Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU VCORE Voltage item to [Manual Mode]

and allows you to set a xed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V

with a 0.005V interval.

CPU VCCSA Voltage [Offset Mode]

[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a xed CPU VCCSA voltage.

[Offset Mode] Allows you to set the CPU VCCSA Offset voltage.

CPU VCCSA Manual Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU VCCSA Voltage item to [Manual Mode]

and allows you to set a xed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V

with a 0.005V interval.

Offset Mode Sign [+]

This item appears only when you set the CPU VCORE/VCCSA Voltage item to [Offset Mode].

[+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.

[–] To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU VCORE/VCCSA Offset Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to set the Offset voltage. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V with a 0.005V interval.

Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU voltage. Setting a high voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the system unstable.

Chapter 3

ASUS P9X79

3-23

DRAM Voltage (CHA, CHB) [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.99V with a 0.005V interval.

DRAM Voltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.99V with a 0.005V interval.

CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU and PCH PLL voltage. The values range from 1.80V to 2.10V with a 0.00625V interval.

VTTCPU Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the VTTCPU voltage. The values range from 1.05V to 1.70V with a

0.00625V interval.

PCH 1.1v Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the 1.1v Platform Controller Hub voltage. The values range from 1.10V to

1.70V with a 0.00625V interval.

PCH 1.5v Voltage [Auto]

Chapter 3

Allows you to set the 1.5v Platform Controller Hub voltage. The values range from 1.50V to

1.80V with a 0.00625V interval.

According to Intel CPU spec, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may damage the CPU permanently. We recommend you install the DIMMs with the voltage requirement below 1.65V.

The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high voltage settings.

VTTDDR Voltage (CHA, CHB) [Auto]

Allows you to set the CHA, CHB VTTDDR voltage. The values range from 0.6250V to 1.10V with a 0.00625V interval.

VTTDDR Voltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto]

Allows you to set the CHC, CHD VTTDDR voltage. The values range from 0.6250V to 1.10V with a 0.00625V interval.

DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA. The values range from 0.3950x to

0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.

3-24 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA. The values range from 0.3950x to

0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.

DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB. The values range from 0.3950x to

0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB. The values range from 0.3950x to

0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.

DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHC. The values range from 0.3950x to

0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHC. The values range from 0.3950x to

0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.

DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHD. The values range from 0.3950x to

0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHD. The values range from 0.3950x to

0.6300x with a 0.005x interval.

DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM Read Reference Voltage on Channel A. The values range from

0.3850x to 0.6150x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability.

DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM Read Reference Voltage on Channel B. The values range from

0.3850x to 0.6150x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability.

DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHC [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM Read Reference Voltage on Channel C. The values range from

0.3850x to 0.6150x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability.

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-25

DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHD [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM Read Reference Voltage on Channel D. The values range from

0.3850x to 0.6150x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability.

CPU Freq Spread Spectrum [Auto]

[Auto] Sets to Auto mode.

[Disabled] Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.

[Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.

PCIE Freq Spread Spectrum [Auto]

[Auto] Sets to Auto mode.

[Disabled] Enhances the PCIE overclocking ability.

[Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.

3.5 Advanced menu

The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices.

Chapter 3

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect eld values

can cause the system to malfunction.

3-26 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.5.1 CPU Conguration

The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects.

The items shown in this screen may be different due to the CPU you installed.

UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Main

Back Advanced\ CPU Conguration >

CPU Conguration Genuine Intel(R) CPU @ 2.30GHz

CPU Signature 206d2 Microcode Patch 8000020c

Max CPU Speed 3000 MHz Min CPU Speed 1200 MHz

Processor Cores 4 Intel HT Technology Supported Intel VT-x Technology Suppotted

L1 Data Cache 32 kB x 6 L1 Code Cache 32 kB x 6 L2 Cache 256 kB x 6 L3 Cache 15360 kB

64-bit Supported

Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor Enabled

Hyper-threading Enabled

Active Processor Cores All

Limit CPUID Maximum Disabled

Execute Disable Bit Enabled

Intel Virtualization Technology Enabled

> CPU Power Management Conguration

Ai Tweaker

Advanced Monitor

Boot

Adjust Non-Turbo Ratio

→←: Select Screen ↑↓: Select Item

Enter: Select +/-: Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Shortcut

F5: Optimized Defaults

F6: ASUS Ratio Boost F10: Save ESC: Exit

F12: Print Screen

Exit

Tool

Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.

[Enabled] Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down.

Hyper-threading [Enabled]

The Intel Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two threads or processes simultaneously.

[Disabled] Only one thread per activated core is enabled.

[Enabled] Two threads per activated core are enabled.

Chapter 3

ASUS P9X79

3-27

Active Processor Cores [All]

Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package. The

conguration options will be vary with CPU specication. Conguration options: [All]

Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]

[Enabled] Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs

[Disabled] Disables this function.

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 Tech [Enabled]

[Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately

[Disabled] Disables this function.

3.5.2 CPU Power Management Conguration

Chapter 3

with extended CPUID functions.

and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several systems.

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]

[Disabled] Disables this function.

[Enabled] Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specic

3-28 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

condition.

CPU C1E [Auto]

[Auto] Set this function in Auto mode.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

[Enabled] Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to

enable the Enhanced Halt State.

CPU C3 Report [Auto]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto]

CPU C6 Report [Auto]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto]

CPU C7 Report [Auto]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C7 report to OS.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto]

3.5.3 PCH Conguration

UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Exit

Main

Back Advanced\ PCH Conguration >

PCH Conguration

High Precision Timer Enabled

Ai Tweaker

Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Enabled/Disabled the High Precision Event Timer.

High Precision Timer [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

3.5.4 SATA Conguration

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.

UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Main

Back Advanced\ SATA Conguration >

SATA Conguration

SATA Mode AHCI Mode

S.M.A.R.T. Status Check Enabled

SATA 6G_1 (Gray) Not Present

Hot Plug Disabled

SATA 6G_2 (Gray) Not Present

Hot Plug Disabled

SATA 3G_3 (Blue) Not Present

Hot Plug Disabled

SATA 3G_4 (Blue) Not Present Hot Plug Disabled

SATA 3G_5 (Blue) Not Present Hot Plug Disabled

SATA 3G_6 (Blue) Not Present Hot Plug Disabled

Ai Tweaker

Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

(1) IDE Mode. (2) AHCI Mode. (3) RAID Mode.

Exit

Chapter 3

ASUS P9X79

3-29

SATA Mode [AHCI Mode]

Allows you to set the SATA conguration.

[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.

[IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as

[AHCI Mode] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the

[RAID Mode] Set to [RAID Mode] when you want to create a RAID conguration from the

Serial-ATA Controller 0 [Enhanced]

[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.

[Enhanced] Set to [Enhanced] to support two SATA 6.0 Gb/s and two SATA 3.0 Gb/s

[Compatible] Set to [Compatible] when using Windows 98/NT/2000/MS-DOS. Up to four

Serial-ATA Controller 1 [Enhanced]

[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.

[Enhanced] Set to [Enhanced] to support 2 SATA 3Gb/s devices.

Chapter 3

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.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

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.

SATA hard disk drives.

The following items appear only when you set the previous item to [IDE Mode].

devices.

SATA devices are supported under these operating systems.

SATA6G_1 (Gray) Hot Plug [Disabled]

This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode].

It’s allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Conguration options: [Disabled]Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled].

SATA6G_2 (Gray) Hot Plug [Disabled]

This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode].

It’s allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Conguration options: [Disabled]Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled].

3-30 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

SATA3G_3 (Blue) Hot Plug [Disabled]

This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode].

It’s allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Conguration options: [Disabled]Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled].

SATA3G_4 (Blue) Hot Plug [Disabled]

This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode].

It’s allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Conguration options: [Disabled]Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled].

SATA3G_5 (Blue) Hot Plug [Disabled]

This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode]. It’s

allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Conguration options: [Disabled]Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled].

SATA3G_6 (Blue) Hot Plug [Disabled]

This item appear only when you set the previous item to [AHCI Mode] and [RAID Mode]. It’s

allow user to enabled/disabled SATA Hot Plug Support. Conguration options: [Disabled]Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled].

ASUS P9X79

Chapter 3

3-31

3.5.5 USB Conguration

The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.

Back Advanced\ USB Conguration >

USB Conguration

USB Devices: 1 Keyboard, 1 Mouse, 4 Hubs

Legacy USB Support Enabled

Legacy USB3.0 Support Enabled

EHCI Hand-off Disabled

Legacy USB Support [Enabled]

[Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).

[Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If

Chapter 3

Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the function.

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating systems

EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the function.

[Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off

UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Main

Ai Tweaker

Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Enables Legacy USB support. AUTO option disables legacy support if no USB devices are connected. DISABLE option will keep USB devices available only for UEFI applications.

The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None.

detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.

(OS).

feature.

Exit

3-32 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguraton

UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Exit

Main

Back Advanced\ Onboard Devices Conguration >

Azalia HD Audio Enabled

Front Panel Type HD

SPDIF Out Type SPDIF

Intel LAN Controller Enabled

Intel LAN PXE OPROM Disabled

VIA 1394 Controller Enabled

Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller Enabled

ASM1061 Storage Controller AHCI Mode

ASM1061 Storage OPROM Enabled

> Serial Port Conguration

Ai Tweaker

Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Enabled/Disabled Azalia HD Audio

→←: Select Screen ↑↓: Select Item

Enter: Select +/-: Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous Values F3: Shortcut

F5: Optimized Defaults

F6: ASUS Ratio Boost F10: Save ESC: Exit

F12: Print Screen

Azalia HD Audio [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

[Enabled] Enables the High Denition Audio 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-

denition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.

[HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high denition audio.

[AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97

Chapter 3

SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF]

[SPDIF] Sets to [SPDIF] for SPDIF audio output.

[HDMI] Sets to [HDMI] for HDMI audio output.

Intel LAN Controller [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

[Enabled] Enables the Intel LAN controller.

ASUS P9X79

3-33

Intel LAN 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 Intel LAN controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

VIA 1394 Controller [Enabled]

This item allows you to enable or disable VIA 1394.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled]

This item allows user to enabled/disabled Asmedia USB 3.0.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASM1061 Storage Controller [AHCI Mode]

Allows you to enable or disable the ASM1061 storage controller. Conguration options: [Disabled] [IDE Mode] [AHCI Mode][Disabled] [IDE Mode] [AHCI Mode]

If you want to use the full functin of the ASM1061 storage contorller (ex. AHCI), we recommend that you set this item to [AHCI Mode] and install the ASM1061 Controller

Driver from the motherboard support DVD.

ASM1061 Storage OPROM [Enabled]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [IDE Mode] or [AHCI Mode] and allows you to enable or disable the OptionRom of the ASM1061 storage controller.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Chapter 3

Serial Port Conguration

Serial Port [Enabled]

This item allows user to enable/disable Serial Port (COM).

[Disabled] Disables conguration.

[Enabled] Change Settings appear under [Enabled]. Select an optimal

setting for Super IO device.

Change Settings [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4]

Conguration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h; IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4]

Back Advanced\ Onboard Devices Conguration\ Serial Port Conguration >

Serial Port Conguration

Serial Port Enabled

Change Settings IO=3F8h; IRQ=4

3-34 Chapter 3: BIOS setup

[IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]

Select an optimal setting for Super IO device.

ASUS P9X79LE User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Notices

Safety information

About this guide

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!

1.2 Package contents

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

1.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with New DIGI+ Power Control

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

2.2 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 Motherboard installation

2.3.6 ATX Power connection

2.3.7 SATA device connection

2.3.8 Front I/O Connector

2.3.9 Expansion Card installation

2.3.10 USB BIOS Flashback

2.3.11 Rear panel connection

2.3.12 Audio I/O connections

2.5 Turning off the computer

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS

3.2 BIOS setup program

3.2.1 EZ Mode

3.2.2 Advanced Mode

3.3 Main menu

3.4 Ai Tweaker menu

3.4.1 DRAM Timing Control

3.4.2 DIGI+ Power Control

3.4.3 CPU Performance Settings

3.5 Advanced menu