Asus Rampage IV Formula User Manual

RAMPAGE IV
FORMULA

Motherboard

E7112

Revised Edition
January 2012

Copyright © 2012 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any
means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written
permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, 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,
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LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
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SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
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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
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or
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Legal Compliance Dept.
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In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the
product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we
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The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY and licensed under the same license as
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This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information.

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we would be much obliged if you give us a notication to the email address [e-mail], stating the
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etc to this email address).

ii

Contents

Notices .......................................................................................................................vi

Safety information ....................................................................................................... x

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

RAMPAGE IV FORMULA specications summary ................................................ xiv

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 ROG Exclusive Features.............................................................1-3

1.3.3 Sound with Clarity ....................................................................... 1-5

1.3.4 Future Transfer Technology ........................................................ 1-5

1.3.5 Software Bundled ........................................................................1-6

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 ......................................................................... 2-12

2.2.5 Onboard switches .....................................................................2-14

2.2.6 Onboard LEDs ..........................................................................2-18

2.2.7 Jumper ...................................................................................... 2-26

2.2.8 Internal connectors....................................................................2-27

2.3 Building your computer system .............................................................2-38

2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system ............ 2-38

2.3.2 CPU installation.........................................................................2-39

2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ............................. 2-41

2.3.4 DIMM installation.......................................................................2-43

2.3.5 Motherboard installation ............................................................2-44

2.3.6 ATX Power connection .............................................................. 2-46

2.3.7 SATA device connection ............................................................2-47

2.3.8 Front I/O Connector ..................................................................2-48

2.3.9 Expansion Card installation.......................................................2-49

2.3.10 Rear panel connection ..............................................................2-50

2.3.11 Audio I/O connections ............................................................... 2-52

2.4 Starting up for the rst time .................................................................... 2-54

iii

Contents

2.5 Turning off the computer ......................................................................... 2-54

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

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

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

3.2.1 Advanced Mode .......................................................................... 3-2

3.2.2 EZ Mode......................................................................................3-4

3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu ............................................................................. 3-5

3.4 Main menu ................................................................................................3-18

3.4.1 System Language [English] ......................................................3-18

3.4.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] ................................................... 3-18

3.4.3 System Time [xx:xx:xx]..............................................................3-18

3.4.4 Security ..................................................................................... 3-19

3.5 Advanced menu .......................................................................................3-21

3.5.1 CPU Conguration .................................................................... 3-22

3.5.2 System Agent Conguration......................................................3-24

3.5.3 PCH Conguration .................................................................... 3-24

3.5.4 SATA Conguration ................................................................... 3-25

3.5.5 USB Conguration ....................................................................3-26

3.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguraton ................................................. 3-27

3.5.7 APM ..........................................................................................3-29

3.6 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................3-30

3.7 Boot menu ................................................................................................3-34

3.8 Tools menu ............................................................................................... 3-36

3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............................................................ 3-36

3.8.2 ASUS SPD Information ............................................................. 3-37

3.8.3 ASUS O.C. Prole ..................................................................... 3-38

3.8.4 BIOS FlashBack ........................................................................ 3-39

3.8.5 GO Button File ..........................................................................3-40

3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................................. 3-41

3.10 Updating BIOS .......................................................................................... 3-42

3.10.1 ASUS Update utility...................................................................3-42

3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............................................................3-46

3.10.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility................................................. 3-47

3.10.4 ASUS BIOS Updater ................................................................. 3-48

3.10.5 USB BIOS Flashback ................................................................ 3-51

Chapter 4: Software support

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

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

iv

Contents

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

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

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

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 Ai Charger+ ...............................................................................4-15

4.3.10 ASUS Update ............................................................................ 4-16

4.3.11 MyLogo2 ...................................................................................4-17

4.3.12 ROG Connect............................................................................4-19

4.3.13 Audio congurations..................................................................4-22

4.3.14 Sound Blaster X-Fi MB 2 .......................................................... 4-23

4.4 RAID congurations ................................................................................4-26

4.4.1 RAID denitions ........................................................................4-26

4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks .................................................4-27

4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS .................................................. 4-27

4.4.4 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility ................4-27

4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk.....................................................................4-31

4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ................ 4-31

4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows® .................................. 4-31

4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation ...... 4-32

4.5.4 Using a USB oppy disk drive ................................................... 4-33

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.

FCC Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Caution Statement

Any changes or modications not expressly approved by the party responsible for

compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. “The manufacture

declares that this device is limited to Channels 1 through 11 in the 2.4GHz frequency by
specied rmware controlled in the USA.”

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure compliance requirements,
please avoid direct contact to the transmitting antenna during transmitting. End users must

follow the specic operating instructions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.

RF exposure warning

This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with provided instructions and
the antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of
at least 20 cm from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with
any other antenna or transmitter. End-users and installers must be provide with antenna
installation instructions and transmitter operating conditions for satisfying RF exposure
compliance.

vi

Declaration of Conformity (R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC)

The following items were completed and are considered relevant and sufcient:

• Essential requirements as in [Article 3]

• Protection requirements for health and safety as in [Article 3.1a]

• Testing for electric safety according to [EN 60950]

• Protection requirements for electromagnetic compatibility in [Article 3.1b]

• Testing for electromagnetic compatibility in [EN 301 489-1] & [EN 301 489-17]

• Effective use of the radio spectrum as in [Article 3.2]

• Radio test suites according to [EN 300 328-2]

CE Mark Warning

CE marking for devices without wireless LAN/Bluetooth

The shipped version of this device complies with the requirements of the EEC directives
2004/108/EC “Electromagnetic compatibility” and 2006/95/EC “Low voltage directive”.

CE marking for devices with wireless LAN/ Bluetooth

This equipment complies with the requirements of Directive 1999/5/EC of the European
Parliament and Commission from 9 March, 1999 governing Radio and Telecommunications
Equipment and mutual recognition of conformity.

vii

Wireless Operation Channel for Different Domains

N. America 2.412-2.462 GHz Ch01 through CH11

Japan 2.412-2.484 GHz Ch01 through Ch14

Europe ETSI 2.412-2.472 GHz Ch01 through Ch13

France Restricted Wireless Frequency Bands

Some areas of France have a restricted frequency band. The worst case maximum

authorized power indoors are:

• 10mW for the entire 2.4 GHz band (2400 MHz–2483.5 MHz)

• 100mW for frequencies between 2446.5 MHz and 2483.5 MHz

Channels 10 through 13 inclusive operate in the band 2446.6 MHz to 2483.5 MHz.

There are few possibilities for outdoor use: On private property or on the private property

of public persons, use is subject to a preliminary authorization procedure by the Ministry of
Defense, with maximum authorized power of 100mW in the 2446.5–2483.5 MHz band. Use

outdoors on public property is not permitted.

In the departments listed below, for the entire 2.4 GHz band:

• Maximum authorized power indoors is 100mW

• Maximum authorized power outdoors is 10mW

Departments in which the use of the 2400–2483.5 MHz band is permitted with an EIRP of

less than 100mW indoors and less than 10mW outdoors:

01 Ain 02 Aisne 03 Allier 05 Hautes Alpes

08 Ardennes 09 Ariège 11 Aude 12 Aveyron
16 Charente 24 Dordogne 25 Doubs 26 Drôme
32 Gers 36 Indre 37 Indre et Loire 41 Loir et Cher
45 Loiret 50 Manche 55 Meuse 58 Nièvre
59 Nord 60 Oise 61 Orne 63 Puy du Dôme
64 Pyrénées Atlantique 66 Pyrénées Orientales
67 Bas Rhin 68 Haut Rhin 70 Haute Saône 71 Saône et Loire
75 Paris 82 Tarn et Garonne 84 Vaucluse
88 Vosges 89 Yonne 90 Territoire de Belfort
94 Val de Marne

This requirement is likely to change over time, allowing you to use your wireless LAN card in
more areas within France. Please check with ART for the latest information (www.arcep.fr)

Your WLAN Card transmits less than 100mW, but more than 10mW.

viii

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.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe [B] est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

IC Radiation Exposure Statement for Canada

This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. To maintain compliance with IC RF exposure compliance requirements, please
avoid direct contact to the transmitting antenna during transmitting. End users must follow the

specic operating instructions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• This device may not cause interference and

• This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.

To prevent radio interference to the licensed service (i.e. co-channel Mobile Satellite systems)
this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from windows to provide maximum
shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to licensing.

The user is cautioned that this device should be used only as specied within this manual

to meet RF exposure requirements. Use of this device in a manner inconsistent with this
manual could lead to excessive RF exposure conditions.

This device and its antenna(s) must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any
other antenna or transmitter.

Country Code selection feature to be disabled for products marketed to the US/CANADA.

ix

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.

• The optical S/PDIF is an optional component (may or may not be included in your

motherboard) and is dened as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT.

INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION, AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.

• Never dispose of the battery in re. It could explode and release harmful substances into

the environment.

• Never dispose of the battery with your regular household waste. Take it to a hazardous

material collection point.

• Never replace the battery with an incorrect battery type.

• RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE.

• DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE ABOVE BATTERY­RELATED INSTRUCTIONS.

x

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.

This motherboard should only be used in environments with ambient temperatures between
5ºC (41ºF) and 40ºC (104ºF).

• Place the product on a stable surface.

• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualied service

technician or your retailer.

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.

xi

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.

xii

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.

Italics

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means

<Key1+Key2+Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key

Command Means that you must type the command exactly as shown,

afudos /iR4F.ROM

that you must press the enclosed key.

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

names are linked with a plus sign (+).

Example: <Ctrl+Alt+Del>

then supply the required item or value enclosed in brackets.

Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:

xiii

RAMPAGE IV FORMULA specications summary

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

Chipset Intel® X79 Express Chipset

Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 2400(O.C.)/ 2200(O.C.)/2133(O.

Expansion Slots 4 x PCIe3.0 x16 (red) slots, support x16; x16/x16; x16/x8/x16 and

Multi-GPU Technology Supports NVIDIA® 4-Way SLI™ / AMD 4-Way CrossFireX™

Storage Intel® X79 Express Chipset built-in:

LAN Intel® Gigabit LAN Controller

Audio SupremeFX III, built-in 8-Channel High Denition Audio

2011 Socket
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list

C.)/2000(O.C)/1800(O.C.)/1600/1333/1066 MHz, non-ECC, un-

buffered memory modules
Quad channel memory architecture
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)
* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of
individual CPUs. Some hyper DIMMs only support one DIMM per
channel. Please refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for

the Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List) for details.

x16/x8/x8/x8 congurations

2 x PCIe2.0 x1 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.

Technology
* The 4-Way SLI™ bridge is sold separately.

- 2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports (red)

- 4 x SATA 3Gb/s ports (black)

- Support Raid 0, 1, 5, 10

ASMedia® ASM1061 controller:

- 2 x SATA 6Gb/s port(s) (red)

- 2 x eSATA 6Gb/s port(s)

CODEC

- Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-Weighted): 110 dB

- Output THD+N at 1kHz: 95 dB

- Supports: Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack­retasking
Audio Feature:
SupremeFX Shielding™ Technology
1500 uF Audio Power Capacitor
Golden-plated jacks

- X-Fi® Xtreme Fidelity™

- EAX® Advanced™ HD 5.0

- THX® TruStudio PRO™

- Creative® ALchemy

- Blu-ray audio layer Content Protection

- Optical S/PDIF out port(s) at back panel

(continued on the next page)

xiv

RAMPAGE IV FORMULA specications summary

USB ASMedia® USB 3.0 controller:

ROG Exclusive Features ROG Extreme OC kit

- 6 x USB 3.0 port(s) (4 at back panel, 2 at mid-board )
Intel® X79 Chipset:

- 12 x USB 2.0 port(s) (6 ports at back panel, 1 for ROG

Connect; 6 ports at mid-board)

- Slow Mode

- LN2 Mode

- PCIe x16 Lane switch

- Q_Reset

- EZ Plug

ROG Connect:

- RC Diagram

- RC Remote

- RC Poster

- GPU TweakIt

ROG Extreme Engine Digi+ II

- 8 phase CPU power8 phase CPU power

- 3 phase VCCSA power

- 2+2 phase DRAM power

UEFI BIOS features :

- ROG BIOS Print

- GPU.DIMM Post

CPU Level Up

ROG GameFirst

ProbeIt

iROG

Extreme Tweaker

USB BIOS Flashback

Loadline Calibration

Intelligent overclocking tools

- ASUS AI Booster UtilityASUS AI Booster Utility

- O.C. ProleO.C. Prole
Overclocking Protection

- COP EX (Component Overheat Protection - EX)COP EX (Component Overheat Protection - EX)

- Voltiminder LED IIVoltiminder LED II

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

(continued on the next page)

xv

RAMPAGE IV FORMULA specications summary

Special Features ASUS EPU Engine

ASUS Exclusive Features

- MemOK!

- Onboard Switches: Power/Reset/Clr CMOS (at rear)

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

- ASUS Fan Xpert
ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS O.C. Prole

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

- ASUS MyLogo 2
ASUS Q-Design

- ASUS Q-Connector

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

- ASUS Q-Slot

- ASUS Q-DIMM

Back I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse Combo port(s)

Internal I/O Connectors 1 x USB 3.0 connector(s) support(s) additional 2 USB 3.0 port(s)

1 x Clear CMOS button(s)
1 x Optical S/PDIF out
1 x ROG Connect On/Off switch
6 x USB 2.0 port(s) (1 can be switched to ROG Connect)
4 x USB 3.0 port(s) (blue)port(s) (blue) (blue)
2 x eSATA 6Gb/s
1 x LAN (RJ45) port(s)
6 x Audio jack(s)

3 x USB 2.0 connector(s) support(s) additional 6 USB 2.0 port(s)
4 x SATA 6Gb/s connector(s)
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connector(s)
2 x CPU Fan connector(s)
3 x Chassis Fan connector(s)
3 x Optional Fan connector(s)
1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector(s)
1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector(s)
8 x ProbeIt Measurement Points
3 x Thermal sensor connector(s)
1 x EZ Plug connector(s) (4-pin Molex power connector)
1 x Power-on button(s)
1 x Reset button(s)
1 x Go Button(s)
1 x LN2 mode jumper
1 x Slow Mode switch
1 x S/PDIF out header(s)
1 x Front panel audio connector(s) (AAFP)
1 x System panel connector

xvi

(continued on the next page)

RAMPAGE IV FORMULA specications summary

BIOS 2 x 64Mb UEFI BIOSs, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.5,

Manageability WfM2.0, DMI2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE

Software Drivers

Form Factor ATX Form Factor

ACPI2.0a Multi-Language BIOS

Sound Blaster® X-Fi MB2 Utility
Kaspersky® Anti-Virus
DAEMON Tools Pro Standard
ROG CPU-Z
Mem TweakIt
ASUS WebStorage
ASUS Utilities

12 inch x 9.6 inch (30.5cm x 24.4cm)

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

xvii

xviii

Chapter 1

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA 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.

Motherboard ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA

Accessories 1 x ROG Connect cable 1 x ROG Connect cable
1 x 3-Way SLI bridge
1 x SLI bridge
1 x CrossFire cable
1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit
2 x 2-in-1 SATA 3Gb/s signal cables
2 x 2-in-1 SATA 6Gb/s signal cables
1 x I/O Shield
1 x ROG theme label
1 x 12-in-1 ROG Cable label
1 x X-Socket pad module

Application DVD ROG motherboard support DVD

Documentation User guide
ROG exclusive feature guide

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

Chapter 1

ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA 1-1

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

Chapter 1

Republic of Gamers

The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We offer the best hardware
engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we welcome the best
gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are only for the weak, and bragging
rights means everything. We believe in making statements and we excel in competitions.
If your character matches our trait, then join the elite club, make your presence felt, in the
Republic of Gamers.

LGA2011 Intel® Sandy Bridge-E Processor

This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Sandy Bridge-E processors in the LGA2011
package, with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to support 4-channel (4 DIMM)
DDR3 memory and x16 PCI Express 3.0 lanes. This provides great graphics performance.

Intel® Sandy Bridge-E processors are among 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 Intel® Core™ i7 Extreme Edition processors. 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.

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 convenience 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.

SLI/CrossFire On-Demand

Why choose when you can have both?

SLI or CrossFireX? Fret no longer because with the ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA, you'll
be able to run both multi-GPU setups. The board features SLI/CrossFireX on Demand

technology, supporting SLI or CrossFireX conguration. Whichever path you take, you can be

assured of jaw-dropping graphics at a level previously unseen.

Quad-Channel DDR3 2400(O.C.) support

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

2200(O.C.)/ 2133(O.C.)/ 2000(O.C.)/ 1800(O.C.)/ 1600/ 1333/ 1066 MHz to meet the higher

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

1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.3.2 ROG Exclusive Features

Extreme Engine Digi+ II

Optimum power efciency with premium components and intelligent digital design

The Extreme Engine Digi+ II has been upgraded and equipped with the nest Japan-made

10K Black Metallic capacitors, while the digital VRM design allows you to achieve ultimate
performance with adjustable CPU and memory power management frequencies. Precise

adjustments create greater efciency, stability, double lifespan and performance for total

system control.

ROG Connect

Plug and Overclock - Tweak it the hardcore way!

Monitor the status of your desktop PC and tweak its parameters in real-time via a notebook—
just like a race car engineer—with ROG Connect. ROG Connect links your main system to
a notebook through a USB cable, allowing you to view real-time POST code and hardware

status readouts on your notebook, as well as make on-the-y parameter adjustments at a

purely hardware level.

ROG GameFirst

The speed you need to pwn

Low Internet latency allows you to frag more, and get fragged less. That's why ROG has

introduced GameFirst, a feature that manages the ow of trafc according to your needs so
that you can still listen to online music, download and upload les, and engage in Internet
chats without sacricing the low ping times you need to pwn your opponents.

X-Socket

Pull the ol' switcharoo

Don't junk that expensive LGA1366 heatsink! With X-Socket, switch out the LGA2011 pad for a 1366 one
and get more life out of your previous CPU cooler.

Chapter 1

ROG BIOS Print

One click, easily share your BIOS settings

ROG offers a whole new EFI BIOS feature to handle the demands of an overclocking
experience. RAMPAGE IV FORMULA features ROG BIOS Print which allows users to easily
share their BIOS settings to others with the press of a button. The days of using a camera to
take BIOS screenshot are over.

GPU.DIMM Post

Easily check the status of your graphics cards and memory in the BIOS!

Notice potential problems even before you enter the OS! Overclockers can save valuable
minutes in detecting component failure under extreme conditions. With GPU.DIMM Post,
quickly and easily check your graphics cards and memory DIMMs status in the BIOS,
potentially keeping that record-breaking overclock!

ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA 1-3

ProbeIt

Get all hands-on with hardware-based overclocking.

Chapter 1

ProbeIt takes the guesswork out of locating the motherboard’s measurement points,
identifying them clearly in the form of eight sets of detection points so you’ll know exactly
where to get quick yet accurate readings using a multitester.

iROG

Intelligent multiple control at hand

The iROG is a special IC which enables several ROG highlighted functions that gives users
full disposal of the motherboard at any stage! This design allows advanced user control and
management to be processed purely at a hardware level. iROG greatly increases fun during
overclocking for PC enthusiasts and it offers system maintenance and management with

more control and efciency.

BIOS FlashBack

Two BIOS ROM. Two BIOS settings. Twice the overclocking exibility.

Overclocker’s prayer to have BIOS exibility is answered! With the new BIOS Flashback, PC
enthusiasts can overclock with even more condence. BIOS Flashback gives overclockers

the ability to save two versions of the BIOS simultaneously. Very much like the “SaveGame”
function, one BIOS can be used for the overclocking adventure, while the other BIOS is to
be stored with any previous version. BIOS Flashback brings the ultimate convenience to
overclockers!

USB BIOS FlashBack

Refresh the BIOS can never be that easy

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

overclockers to try their BIOS with the simplist way one can imagine. No need to enter the
BIOS or the operating system, just plug the thumb drive into the ROG Connect port & push

the ROG Connect button for 3 seconds, BIOS would be automatically ashed under standby

power. It’s no doubt that USB BIOS Flashback gives overclockers the ultimate convenience!

CPU Level Up

A simple click for instant upgrade!

Ever wish that you could have a more expensive CPU? Upgrade your CPU at no additional
cost with ROG’s CPU Level Up! Simply pick the processor you wanted to OC to, and the
motherboard will do the rest! See the new CPU speed and enjoy that performance instantly.
Overclocking is never as easy as this.

Extreme Tweaker

One stop performance tuning shop

Extreme Tweakers is the one stop shop to ne-tune your system to optimal performance.

No matter if you’re looking for frequency adjustment, over-voltage options, or memory timing
settings, they’re all here!

1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Voltiminder LED II

Friendly reminder on Voltage Settings

In the pursuit of extreme performance, overvoltage adjustment is critical but risky. Acting as

the “red zone” of a tachometer, the Voltiminder LED displays the voltage status for CPU, NB,

SB, and Memory in a intuitive color-coded fashion. The Voltiminder LED allows quick voltage
monitoring for overclockers.

COP EX

Maximum OC with condence with burn proof protection to chipsets and GPU!
The COP EX allows overclockers to increase chipset voltages without the worries of
overheating. It can also be used to monitor and save an overheating GPU. The COP EX
allows more freedom and less constraint for maximum performance achievement.

Loadline Calibration

Optimal power boost for extreme CPU overclocking!

Maintaining ample voltage support for the CPU is critical during overclocking. The
Loadline Calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage under heavy loading. It helps
overclockers enjoy the motherboard’s ultimate OC capabilities and benchmark scores.

1.3.3 Sound with Clarity

SupremeFX III

Supreme Sound

The SupremeFX III™ onboard audio solution is an 8-channel HD audio equipped with a
carefully selected 1500uF capacitor which provides clean, ripple-free audio power and

– perfect for enveloping gaming environments. With a metallic EMI cover and special layout

design on the PCB, advanced SupremeFX Shielding™ technology isolates analog audio

signals from digital sources for exceptional clarity and high delity, while a golden-plated jack

ensures rich notes reach your ears with minimal distortion. In real world testing, a signal-to­noise ratio (SNR) of 110dB was achieved, yielding almost lossless audio.

A bounty of industry standards are supported, including EAX® 5.0 Advanced HD, Creative®
ALchemy and THX® TruStudio™ PRO, so the same great audio experiences found in live

performances, lms and recording studios are reproduced faithfully right on the PC. When

bundled with the Sound Blaster® X-Fi MB2 suite, the SupremeFX III™ is the perfect choice
to provide an exceptional gaming experience with realistic sound effects.

Chapter 1

1.3.4 Future Transfer Technology

True USB 3.0 Support

10X faster data rates!

Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0—the latest connectivity
standard. Built to connect easily with next generation components and peripherals, USB 3.0
transfers data 10X faster and is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 components.

ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA 1-5

True SATA 6Gb/s Support

Experience the future of storage!

Chapter 1

Supporting next-generation Serial ATA (SATA) storage interface, this motherboard delivers
up to 6.0Gb/s data transfer rates. Additionally, get enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval,
double the bandwidth of current bus systems.

1.3.5 Software Bundled

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus

The best protection from viruses and spyware

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus Personal offers premium antivirus protection for individual users and

home ofces. It is based on advanced antivirus technologies. The product incorporates the

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus engine, which is renowned for malicious program detection rates that
is among the industry’s highest.

DAEMON Tools Pro Standard

The real tool for optical and virtual discs

DAEMON Tools Pro offers essential functionality to backup CD, DVD and Blu-ray discs. It
converts optical media into virtual discs and emulates devices to work with the virtual copies.

DAEMON Tools Pro organizes data, music, video and photo collections on a PC, notebook or

netbook.

ROG CPU-Z

Whole new design of CPU-Z

ROG CPU-Z is a customized ROG version authorized by CPUID. It has the same

functionality and credibility as the original version, with a unique design. Use the whole new
look of ROG CPU-Z to truly report your CPU related information and your uniqueness.

Mem TweakIt

Dynamic timing adjustments, DRAM efciency gauge

When changing DRAM settings in BIOS, it always takes time for the system to reboot.
Worry no more! With Mem TweakIt, you can do DRAM tuning in real-time, view your DRAM

efciency score, and upload and share your ranking online.

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.

ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA 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

2.3.10 Rear panel connection

for more

Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page

1. Q Reset button 2-16

2. CPU, chassis and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN;
4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3; 4-pin OPT_FAN1/2/3)

3. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1–3) 2-30

4. DDR3 DIMM slots channel A, B, C and D 2-5

5. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V) 2-34

6. LGA2011 CPU socket 2-4

7. Debug LEDs 2-21

8. LN2 Mode jumper 2-26

9. Slow Mode Switch 2-17

10. Power-on Switch 2-14

11. Reset Switch 2-14

12. PCIe x16 Lane Switch 2-16

13. Go Button 2-15

14. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_56) 2-30

15. Intel X79 Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_1–4

[black])

16. Intel X79 Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [red]) 2-27

17. ASMedia Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2
[red])

18. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 2-37

19. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78; USB910; USB1112) 2-31

20. BIOS button 2-15

21. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-32

22. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-34

23. EZ Plug connector (4-pin EZ-PLUG) 2-36

2-33

Chapter 2

2-28

2-29

ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA 2-3

2.2.2 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

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

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 four 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

ROG RAMPAGE IV FORMULA 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, Channel B, Channel C and
Channel D. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual­channel, triple-channel and quad-channel 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. 32GB 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 overclocking condition.

3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu

for manual memory

2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information