ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX User Manual

SABERTOOTH
990FX

Motherboard

E6674

Second Edition
May 2011

Copyright © 2011 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
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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

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ii

Contents

Notices ......................................................................................................................vii

Safety information .................................................................................................... viii

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

SABERTOOTH 990FX specications summary ....................................................... xi

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 “Ultimate COOL!” Thermal Solution ............................................ 1-3

1.3.3 “TUF ENGINE!” Power Design....................................................1-3

1.3.4 ASUS DIY ................................................................................... 1-4

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 Jumper ...................................................................................... 2-18

2.2.6 Onboard switch ......................................................................... 2-19

2.2.7 Onboard LEDs .......................................................................... 2-20

2.2.8 Internal connectors....................................................................2-21

2.3 Building your computer system ............................................................. 2-29

2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system ............ 2-29

2.3.2 CPU installation.........................................................................2-30

2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ............................. 2-31

2.3.5 Motherboard installation ............................................................2-34

2.3.6 ATX Power connection .............................................................. 2-36

2.3.7 SATA device connection ............................................................2-37

2.3.8 Front I/O Connector .................................................................. 2-38

2.3.9 Expension Card installation.......................................................2-39

2.3.10 Rear panel connection .............................................................. 2-40

2.3.11 Audio I/O connections ............................................................... 2-41

2.4 Starting up for the rst time .................................................................... 2-44

2.5 Turning off the computer ......................................................................... 2-44

iii

Contents

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

3.5 Advanced menu .......................................................................................3-14

3.5.1 CPU Conguration .................................................................... 3-15

3.5.2 North Bridge Conguration........................................................3-16

3.5.3 SATA Conguration ...................................................................3-17

3.5.4 USB Conguration .................................................................... 3-19

3.5.5 CPU Core On/Off Fuction ......................................................... 3-20

3.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguration ................................................ 3-21

3.5.7 APM .......................................................................................... 3-23

3.6 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................3-24

3.7 Boot menu ................................................................................................3-27

3.8 Tools menu ............................................................................................... 3-28

3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................................. 3-30

3.10 Updating BIOS .......................................................................................... 3-31

3.10.1 ASUS Update utility...................................................................3-31

3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ............................................................. 3-34

3.10.3 ASUS BIOS Updater ................................................................. 3-36

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

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

4.3.2 ASUS Thermal Radar ................................................................. 4-8

4.3.3 Tool............................................................................................ 4-12

4.3.4 Monitor ...................................................................................... 4-21

4.3.5 Update.......................................................................................4-22

4.3.6 System Information ................................................................... 4-27

4.3.7 Audio congurations..................................................................4-28

4.4 RAID congurations ................................................................................4-29

4.4.1 RAID denitions ........................................................................ 4-29

iv

Contents

4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks .................................................4-30

4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS .................................................. 4-30

4.4.4 AMD® Option ROM Utility .......................................................... 4-31

4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk.....................................................................4-34

4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ................ 4-34

4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows® .................................. 4-34

4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation ...... 4-35

4.5.4 Using a USB oppy disk drive ................................................... 4-36

Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support

5.1 ATI® 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 ATI® 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 ATI® 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

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.

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

complete a task.

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

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>

ix

SABERTOOTH 990FX specications summary

CPU AMD® socket AM3+ for AMD® FX Series CPU up to 8-core

Chipset AMD® 990FX/SB950

System Bus Up to 5.2 GT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0

Memory *4 x DIMM, Max. 32GB, DDR3 1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz, ECC, Non-

Expansion Slots 3 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots (single @ x16, dual @ x16 / x16, triple @

Multi-GPU Technology Support NVIDIA® Quad-GPU SLI™ and ATI® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™

Storage AMD® SB950 Chipset:

LAN Realtek® 8111E Gigabit LAN controller

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

IEEE 1394 VIA® VT6308P controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports (1 port at mid-

Compatible with AMD® socket AM3 for AMD® Phenom™ II/
Athlon™ II/Sempron™ 100 Series Processors
Supports 32nm CPU
AMD® Cool 'n' Quiet™ Technology
AMD® 140W CPU Support

ECC and un-buffered memory
Dual channel memory architecture

* Refer to www.asus.com or user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualied

Vendors Lists) of AM3+ / AM3 CPU

** Due to OS limitation, 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.

*** Due to CPU spec, AMD 100 Series CPUs support up to DDR3

1066MHz. With ASUS design, this mptherboard can support up to
DDR3 1333MHz.

x16 / x8 / x8 mode)*
1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot (Black @ x4)
1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot
1 x PCI slot
* In dual VGA card mode, ensure to install the VGA cards to PCIex16_1

and PCIex16_3 for better performance. Refer to “2.5 Expansion slots”
for details.

Technology

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

2 x JMicron® JMB362 SATA controllers:

- 2 x SATA 3Gb/s ports

- 1 x Power eSATA 3Gb/s port (green)

- 1 x eSATA 3Gb/s port (red)

- Absolute Pitch 192KHz/24bit True BD Lossless Sound

- BD Audio Layer Content Protection

- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming, Front
Panel Jack-Retasking

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

board; 1 port at back panel)

*Refer to Chapter 2 for slot congurations.

(continued on the next page)

x

SABERTOOTH 990FX specications summary

USB 2 x ASMedia® USB 3.0 controllers

Exclusive TUF Features Ultimate COOL! Thermal Solution

Other Special Features Front Panel USB 3.0 Support

BIOS Features 32 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS

- 2 x USB 3.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support

- 2 x USB 3.0 ports at back panel (blue)
AMD® SB950 chipset

- 14 x USB 2.0 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 10 ports at
back panel

- TUF CeraM!X Heatsink Coating Tech.

- TUF Thermal Radar

“TUF ENGINE!” Power Design

- 8+2 Digital phase Power Design

- TUF Components (Alloy choke, Cap. & MOSFET; certied

by military-standard)

- ASUS DIGI+VRM Utility

- E. S. P. : Efcient Switching Power Disign

“Safe & Stable!” Guardian Angel

- ESD Guards

- MemOK!

- Anti Surge

ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user
interface
AI Suite II
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS Q-DIMM
ASUS O.C. Prole
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS MyLogo 2
Multi-language BIOS

2.5, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2

(continued on the next page)

xi

SABERTOOTH 990FX specications summary

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

Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse combo port

Internal I/O Connectors 1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0/2.0 ports

Software Drivers

Form Factor ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5cm x 24.4cm)

1 x Optical S/PDIF Output port
1 x Power eSATA 3Gb/s port (green)
1 x eSATA 3Gb/s port (red)
1 x IEEE1394a port
1 x LAN (RJ45) port
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)
10 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
8-channel Audio I/O ports

(19-pin; moss green)
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports
6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (brown)
2 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors (black)
1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin)
4 x Chassis Fan connectors (3 x 4-pin; 1 x 3-pin)
1 x CPU Opt fan connector (4-pin)
1 x IEEE1394a connector
Front panel audio connector
1 x COM connector
1 x S/PDIF Out header
24-pin EATX Power connector
8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
System Panel (Q-Connector)
1 x MemOK! button
1 x Clear CMOS jumper

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

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

xii

Chapter 1

User Manual

Five-year warranty

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® SABERTOOTH 990FX 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 SABERTOOTH 990FX

motherboard

4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables

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

User guide Support DVD

1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge

connector

Chapter 1

1 x TUF Certication card

1 x TUF Five-year warranty

manual

ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX 1-1

• 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.

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

Chapter 1

The Ultimate Force

TUF /tΛf/, stands for The Ultimate Force.

The TUF series delivers a “tough” image. With the unique design & high quality components
(military-standard), TUF series is born for pursuing the preeminent stability, all-round
compatibility, and extreme durability

FX™/Phenom™ II/Athlon™ II/ Sempron™ 100 Series Processors (AM3+ / AM3
CPU)

This motherboard supports latest AMD® Socket AM3+ multi-core processors with up to 8-core
native CPU cores and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power consumption.
It features AMD Turbo CORE Technology 2.0 and accelerates data transfer rate up to
5200MT/s via HyperTransport™ 3.0 based system bus. This motherboard also supports
AMD® CPUs in the new 32nm manufacturing process.

AMD 990FX Chipset

AMD 990FX Chipset is designed to support up to 5.2GT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0 (HT 3.0)

interface speed and dual PCI Express™ 2.0 x16 graphics. It is optimized with AMD latest

AM3+ and multi-core CPUs to provide excellent system performance and overclocking
capabilities.

Quad-GPU SLI and Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ support!

Flexible Multi-GPU Solutions, Your Weapon of Choice!

SABERTOOTH 990FX brings multi-GPU congurations through both SLI™ and CrossFireX.

This motherboard features the powerful AMD® 990FX chipset, optimizing PCIe allocation in
multiple GPU setups. Expect a brand new gaming sensation like you’ve never experienced
before!

PCIe 2.0

Double Speed; Double Bandwidth

This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 devices for double speed and bandwidth
which enhances system performance.

Front Panel USB 3.0 Support

Convenient USB 3.0 Front Panel Compatibility

ASUS provides standardized USB 3.0 front panel support, compatible with any chassis.

Enjoy faster throughput of USB 3.0 without relegating cables or devices to the hard-to-reach
rear I/O.

Complete USB 3.0 Solution

Double USB access, double convenience

ASUS facilitates strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear panel - 4 USB

3.0 ports in total. Experience the latest plug & play connectivity at speeds up to 10 times
faster than USB 2.0. The SABERTOOTH 990FX affords greater convenience to high speed
connectivity.

1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.3.2 “Ultimate COOL!” Thermal Solution

TUF CeraM!X - Heatsink Coating Tech.

Larger area for heat dissipation with the revolutionary ceramics-coating technology

Innovative ceramics actively conducts heat away from the system. It replaces traditional
anti-oxidant to dissipate heat better with its microscopic irregular surface and enlarged area.
Better cooling leads to overall improvement in system stability.

Do Not uninstall the heatsink module by youself. Doing so may bend the tubing and affect
the heat dissipation performance.

TUF Thermal Radar

Real Time Temp Detection and Heat Removal

The TUF Thermal Radar monitors temps in critical parts of the motherboard in real time,
automatically adjusting fan speeds to make sure the system maintains high stability without
overheating. It consists of multiple sensors for various components on the motherboard,
giving users the ability to monitor each one individually. The Thermal Radar automatically
calculates ideal fan speeds based on different parameters selected by users for each
component, keeping everything cooler and longer lasting.

1.3.3 “TUF ENGINE!” Power Design

DIGI+ VRM

Herald the Arrival of a New Digital Power Design Era

The new ASUS DIGI+ VRM design upgrades motherboard power delivery to a digital

standard. The 8+2 digital architecture provides the highest power efciency, generating

less heat to enhance longer component lifespan and ensure minimal powerloss. With ASUS
DIGI+ VRM, users can easily adjust power phase performance, enabling new PWM voltage
and frequency modulation controls. Digital 8+2 power phase design also expands the
modulation spectrum for improved stability and lower VRM switching noise by dynamically

detecting system load, empowering users with superior exibility and perfect precision to
ensure optimized performance, extreme system stability, and greater power efciency.

E.S.P. Efcient Switching Power Design

Optimal power efciency for key components

Exclusively for this motherboard, the switching power design is provided not only for the CPU
and memory, but also for other key components such as graphics cards, LAN and USB 3.0.

E.S.P. dramatically improves system efciency and reduces heat generation.

Chapter 1

ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX 1-3

TUF Components (Alloy Choke, Cap. & MOSFET; Certied by Military-

standard)

Chapter 1

Certied for Tough Duty

Get rugged performance even in the most challenging conditions with robust TUF chokes,

solid capacitors, and MOSFETs--certied through third-party, military-grade testing. TUF

Chokes, also known as the “Alloy Choke”, is a made of a compound of various types of metal
instead standard iron, enables the support of up to a massive 40A of rated current, 25%
higher than conventional component. Furthermore, the single piece packaing also elimates
the emission of virbation noise, delivering superb charactoristics as well as durability under
extreme conditions.

ESD Guards

Unique protection of motherboard components from unexpected electrostatic
discharges (ESD)

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can happen suddenly and its damaging effects is often
underestimated. Exclusive ASUS anti-static chip, a protective circuit design, and the I/O
shield provides four times better protection to extend component lifespan.

Any Memory is A-OK!

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 system boot success. Get your system up and running in
no time!

1.3.4 ASUS DIY

UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)

Flexible & Easy BIOS Interface

ASUS brand new UEFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional

keyboard only BIOS, to enable more exible and convenient mouse controls. Users can

easily navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system.
The exclusive EZ Mode displays frequently-accessed setup info, while the Advanced Mode is
for experienced performance enthusiasts that demand far more intricate system settings.

AI Suite II

One-stop Access to Innovative ASUS Features

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

1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

ASUS Q-Design

DIY quickly, DIY easily!

ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-LED, Q-Slot, and Q-DIMM design
speed up and simplify the DIY process!

Q-Shield

Easy and Comfortable Installations

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).

ASUS Q-Connector

Make connection quick and accurate!

The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front panel cables
in one easy step with one complete module. This unique adapter eliminates the trouble of
plugging in one cable at a time, making connection quick and accurate.

EZ Flash2

Simply update BIOS from a USB ash disk before entering the OS

EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply launch this tool and update BIOS

from a USB ash disk before entering the OS. You can update your BIOS only in a few clicks
without preparing an additional oppy diskette or using an OS-based ash utility.

O.C. Prole

Conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings

Freely share and distribute favorite overclocking settings The motherboard features the

ASUS O.C. Prole that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The
BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate le, giving users freedom to share

and distribute their favorite overclocking settings.

Chapter 1

8 Channel Audio Codec

The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Denition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia)
CODEC enables high-quality Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit audio output, true BD lossless

sound, jack-sensing feature, retasking functions and multi-streaming technology.

MyLogo2

Personalize your system with customizable boot logo

The ASUS MyLogo 2 is the new feature present in the motherboard that allows you to

personalize and add style to your system with customizable and animated boot logos.

ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX 1-5

Power eSATA on the Go

The motherboard supports hard drives based on the Serial ATA (SATA) 3Gb/s storage

specication, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed

Chapter 1

data retrieval and saves.The Power eSATA solution combines the eSATA connector and
power source together, allowing users to use external SATA devices without the need of
additional power source*. The external SATA port located at the back I/O provides smart
setup and hot-plug functions. Easily backup photos, videos and other entertainment contents
on external devices. *Power eSATA requires a specially designed signal cable to provide 5V
power for the external SATA device. The cable is purchased separately.

IEEE 1394a interface

IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video appliances such as
digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals & other PC portable devices.

ErP Ready

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

products to meet certain energy efciency requirements 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

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 SABERTOOTH 990FX 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. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) 2-21

2. AM3+ CPU socket 2-4

3. CPU and chassis fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN, CPU_OPT FAN, CHA_FAN1~3, 3-pin

CHA_FAN4)

4. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-5

5. MemOK! switch 2-14

6. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34) 2-18

7. JMicron® Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_E1/E2
[black])

8. AMD® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6
[brown])

9. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 2-23

10. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) 2-17

11. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 2-13

12. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112, USB1314) 2-18

13. Standby power LED (SB_PWR) 2-15

14. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 2-19

15. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-21

16. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-19

2-20

2-17

2-16

Chapter 2

ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX 2-3

2.2.2 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

+

The motherboard comes with an AM3+ socket designed for AMD® FX Series CPU up to 8-core,
also compatible with AMD® socket AM3 for AMD® Phenom™ II/Athlon™ II/ Sempron™ 100
Series Processors.

Chapter 2

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

The AM3+ socket has a different pinout designe, ensure that you use a CPU designed for

the AM3+/AM3 socket. The CPU ts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU

into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!

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

ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX 2-5

Memory congurations

You may install 1GB, 2GB and 4GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM
sockets.

Chapter 2

• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conguration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.

• Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3 1600 MHz

frequency as default.

• 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.

3.4 Ai Tweaker menu

for manual memory

2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information

SABERTOOTH 990FX Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
AM3 DDR3 1066 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support

Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 7 - • • •

CT12864BA1067.8SFD 1GB

Crucial

Crucial CT12872BA1067.9FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • •

Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 7 - • • •

Crucial CT25664BA1067.16SFD 2GB DS MICRON D9JNL 7 - • • •

Crucial CT25672BA1067.18FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • •

ELPIDA EBJ10UE8BAW0-AE-E 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BABG-DJ-E 7 - • • •

EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F 1GB

ELPIDA

ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BAW0-AE-E 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BABG-DJ-E 7 - • • •

ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - • • •

GEIL GG34GB1066C8DC 4GB

Hynix HMT112U6AFP8C-G7N0 1GB SS HYNIX H5TQ1G83AFPG7C 7 - • • •

Hynix HYMT112U64ZNF8-G7 1GB SS HYNIX HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G7 7 - • •

Hynix HMT125U6AFP8C-G7N0 2GB DS HYNIX H5TQ1G83AFPG7C 7 - • • •

Hynix HYMT125U64ZNF8-G7 2GB DS HYNIX HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G7 7 - • • •

Kingston KVR1066D3N7/1G 1GB SS Kingston D1288JPNDPLD9U 7 1.5 • • •

Kingston KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS Elpida J1108BDSE-DJ-F 7 1.5 • • •

KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7K2/4G 4GB

MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON 8ZF22 D9KPV 7 - • • •

MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 7 - • • •

MICRON MT9JSF12872AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • •

MICRON MT16JTF25664AZ-

1G1F1

MICRON MT16JTF25664AZ-

1G1F1

MICRON MT18JSF25672AZ-

1G1F1

SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CF8 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCF8 8 1.5 • • •

Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC5N-BE 2GB DS Elixir N2CB1G80CN-BE - - • • •

Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-BE 2GB DS - - - - • • •

SS MICRON

SS ELPIDA

DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA115FW 8-8-8-20 1.3 • •

( 2x 2GB )

DS KINGSTON D1288JELDNGD9U - 1.5 • • •

( 2x 2GB )

2GB DS MICRON 8ZF22 D9KPV 7 - • • •

2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 7 - • • •

2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • •

D9JNL

J1108EDSE-DJ-F

7 -

- -

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

• •

•

•

•

Chapter 2

ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX 2-7

SABERTOOTH 990FX Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
AM3 DDR3 1333 MHz capability

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

A-DATA SU3U1333W8G9-B 8GB DS Elpida J4208BASE-DJ-F 9 - • • •

Apacer

Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808FEQSBG 9 - • • •

CORSAIR TW3X4G1333C9A 4GB

CORSAIR CMX8GX3M2A1333C9(XMP) 8GB

CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1333C9 8GB

Crucial CT12864BA1339.8FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 9 - • • •

Crucial

Crucial CT25664BA1339.16FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 9 - • • •

Crucial CT25672BA1339.18FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • • •

ELPIDA EBJ10UE8BDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F - - • • •

Chapter 2

ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - • • •

ELPIDA EBJ20UF8BCF0-DJ-F 2GB SS Elpida J2108BCSE-DJ-F - - • • •

ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BDF0-DJ-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F - - • • •

G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT 4GB

G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBHK(XMP) 4GB

G.SKILL F3-10666CL7D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB

G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-

G.SKILL F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL 8GB

G.SKILL F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL 8GB

GEIL GET316GB1333C9QC 16GB

GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB

GEIL GB34GB1333C7DC 4GB

GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB

GEIL GV34GB1333C7DC 4GB

GEIL GVP38GB1333C7QC 8GB

Hynix HMT112U6TFR8A-H9 1GB SS Hynix H5TC1G83TFR - - • • •

Hynix HMT325U6BFR8C-H9 2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR - - • • •

Hynix HMT125U6BFR8C-H9 2GB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83BFRH9C 9 - • • •

Hynix HMT125U6TFR8A-H9 2GB DS Hynix H5TC1G83TFR - - • • •

Hynix HMT351U6BFR8C-H9 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR - - • • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KM9 2GB SS Kingmax KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-B8KL9 2GB DS KINGMAX KFB8FNLXL-BNF-15A - - • • •

KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8KM9 4GB DS Kingmax KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • • •

Kingston KVR1333D3N9/1G 1GB SS Elpida J1108BDSE-DJ-F 9 1.5 • • •

Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS Kingston D1288JPNDPLD9U 9 1.5 • • •

Kingston KHX1333C9D3UK2/

KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9K2/4G 4GB

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

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

MICRON MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1 4GB DS Micron D9LGK - - • • •

OCZ OCZ3P1333LV3GK 3GB

OCZ OCZ3G1333LV4GK 4GB

78.01GC6.9L0

BL25664BN1337.16FF(XMP)

4GBECO(XMP)

4GX(XMP)

1GB SS

( 2x 2GB )

( 2x 4GB )

(4 x 2GB)

2GB DS

( 2x 2GB )

( 2x 2GB )

(2 x 2GB)

4GB
(2 x 2GB)

( 2x 4GB )

( 2x 4GB )

( 4x 4GB )

( 2x 2GB )

(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

( 4x 2GB )

4GB
( 2x 2GB )

( 2x 2GB )

(3 x 1GB)

( 2x 2GB )

Apacer AM5D5808DEJSBG

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • •

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 - - 8-8-8-21 1.5 • • •

DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.35 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 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 GL1L128M88BA15FW 7-7-7-24 1.5 • • •

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

DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5 • •

DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5 • • •

DS - - 9 1.25 • • •

DS KINGSTON D1288JEMFPGD9U - 1.5 • • •

SS - - 7-7-7 1.65 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 • • •

9

7-7-7-24

- •

1.65 •

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

• •

• •

2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information

SABERTOOTH 990FX Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
AM3 DDR3 1333 MHz capability

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

OCZ OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK 8GB

PC310600U-9-10-A0

PSC

PSC AL8F8G73D-DG1 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3DGF - - • • •

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 - - • • •

M378B5673FH0-CH9

SAMSUNG

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 - - • • •

Transcend TS256MLK64V3N (566577) 2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR 9 - • • •

Transcend TS256MLK64V3N (574206) 2GB SS Micron D9LGK 9 - • • •

Transcend TS512MLK64V3N (389889) 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR 9 - • •

Transcend TS512MLK64V3N (574831) 4GB DS Micron D9LGK 9 - • • •

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) - - • • •

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

BUFFALO FSH1333D3G-T3G(XMP) 3GB

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

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

EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13 4GB

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

Elixir M2F4G64CB8HB5N-CG 4GB DS Elixir N2CB2G808N-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

Patriot PVS34G1333ELK 4GB

Patriot PVS34G1333LLK 4GB

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

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

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

Team TXD32048M1333C7-D(XMP) 2GB DS Team T3D1288LT-13 7-7-7-21 1.5-1.6 • • •

Team TXD32048M1333C7-D(XMP) 2GB DS Team T3D1288LT-13 7-7-7-21 1.5-1.6 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 • •

( 2x 4GB )

1GB SS

2GB DS

(3 x 1GB)

(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

PSC A3P1GF3FGF

SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F

SS - - 7-7-7-20 - • • •

DS - - 9 - • • •

DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •

DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 • •

-

-

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

- •

- •

• •

• •

Chapter 2

ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX 2-9

SABERTOOTH 990FX Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
AM3 DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support

CORSAIR HX3X12G1600C9(XMP) 12GB

CORSAIR

CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB

CORSAIR CMD4GX3M2B1600C8 4GB

CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB

CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 4GB

CORSAIR CMD4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 4GB

CORSAIR

Chapter 2

CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4GB

CORSAIR CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP) 6GB

CORSAIR CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP) 6GB

CORSAIR CMX6GX3M3C1600C7(XMP) 6GB

CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8D(XMP) 6GB

CORSAIR CMP8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 8GB

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 8GB

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 8GB

CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 8GB

Crucial BL12864BN1608.8FF(XMP) 2GB

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

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ(XMP) 4GB

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB

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

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8T-6GBPI(XMP) 6GB

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

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

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-

GEIL GET316GB1600C9QC(XMP) 16GB

GEIL GE34GB1600C9DC(XMP) 4GB

GEIL GUP34GB1600C7DC(XMP) 4GB

GEIL GVP38GB1600C8QC(XMP) 8GB

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

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB

KINGSTON KHX1600C7D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB

CMZ16GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 16GB

CMG4GX3M2A1600C7(XMP) 4GB

4GBECO(XMP)

4GBECO(XMP)

8GBECO(XMP)

( 6x 2GB )

( 4x 4GB )

( 2x 2GB )

( 2x 2GB )

( 2x 2GB )

( 2x 2GB )

(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

( 3x 2GB )

( 3x 2GB )

( 3x 2GB )

(3 x 2GB)

( 2x 4GB )

( 2x 4GB )

( 2x 4GB )

(4 x 2GB)

( 2x 1GB )

( 2x 2GB )

4GB
(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

(2 x 2GB)

4GB
(2 x 2GB)

(3 x 2GB)

( 2x 4GB )

( 2x 4GB )

8GB
( 2x4GB )

( 4x 4GB )

( 2x 2GB )

( 2x 2GB )

( 4x 2GB )

( 3x 4GB )

( 2x 2GB )

(Optional)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6 • • •

DS -

DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 •

DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 •

DS -

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

DS - - 7-8-7-20 1.65 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • •

DS - - 7-8-7-24 - • •

DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.6 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.35 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.6~1.65 •

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.35 • • •

DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.6 • •

DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.6 • •

DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.6 • • •

DS - - 8-8-8-28 1.6 • • •

DS N/A - - 1.65 • • •

DS - - - 1.65 • • •

-

-

9-9-9-24 1.5

7-7-7-20 1.65

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

• •

•

•

•

2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information

SABERTOOTH 990FX Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
AM3 DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB

KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB

KINGSTON

Kingston KHX1600C9D3LK2/4GX(XMP) 4GB

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X2K2/

4GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/

6GX(XMP)

OCZ OCZ3G16004GK 4GB

OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4GB

OCZ

OCZ OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4GB

OCZ OCZ3OB1600LV4GK 4GB

OCZ OCZ3X1600LV4GK(XMP) 4GB

OCZ OCZ3G1600LV6GK 6GB(3 x

OCZ OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x

OCZ OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x

Super Talent WP160UX4G8(XMP) 4GB(2 x

Super Talent WP160UX4G9(XMP) 4GB(2 x

Super Talent WB160UX6G8(XMP) 6GB(3 x

Super Talent WB160UX6G8(XMP) 6GB(3 x

AEXEA AXA3PS2G1600S18V(XMP) 2GB DS - - - 1.65 • • •

AEXEA AXA3PS4GK1600S18V(XMP) 4GB ( 2x

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

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

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

Elixir M2P2G64CB8HC9N-DG(XMP) 2GB DS - - - - • • •

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 PVT36G1600LLK(XMP) 6GB(3 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) 2GB DS Team T3D1288RT-16 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

DS - - - 1.65 • • •

( 2x 2GB )

DS -

( 2x 2GB )

DS - - - 1.65 • • •

( 2x 2GB )

4GB

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

( 2x 2GB )

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

( 3x 2GB )

6GB

DS - - - 1.65 • •

( 3x 2GB )

DS - - 8-8-8 1.7 • •

( 2x 2GB )

DS -

( 2x 2GB )

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • • •

( 2x 2GB )

DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 • • •

(2 x 2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • • •

(2 x 2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • •

2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • • •

2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • • •

2GB)

DS - - 8 - • •

2GB)

DS - - 9 - • • •

2GB)

DS - - - - • • •

2GB)

DS - - 8 - • • •

2GB)

DS - - - 1.65 • • •

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 - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

2GB)

DS - - 8-9-8-24 1.65 • • •

4GB )

-

-

- 1.65

8-8-8 1.65

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

• •

•

•

Chapter 2

ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX 2-11

SABERTOOTH 990FX Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
AM3 DDR3 1800 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support

G.SKILL F3-14400CL6D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4GB (2 x 2GB) DS - - 6-8-6-24 1.65 • • •

G.SKILL

KINGSTON KHX1800C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB (3 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65 • • •

SABERTOOTH 990FX Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
AM3 DDR3 1866 MHz capability

Chapter 2

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support

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

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

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 • • •

KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3GB ( 3x 1GB ) SS - - - 1.65 • •

OCZ OCZ3RPR1866C9LV3GK 3GB ( 3x 1GB ) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 •

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

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

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

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

F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP)

4GB (2 x 2GB) DS

-

- 9-9-9-24

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

1.6 •

•

•

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

2-12 Chapter 2: Hardware information