ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87 User Manual

SABERTOOTH
Z87

Motherboard

First Edition
April 2013

Copyright© 2013 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
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Licenses. Such software in this product is distributed without any warranty to the extent permitted by the
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or
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the product and describing the problem (please DO NOT send large attachments such as source code
archives, etc. to this email address).

ii

Contents

Safety information ...................................................................................................... vi

About this guide ........................................................................................................ vii

SABERTOOTH Z87 specications summary ........................................................... ix

Package contents ..................................................................................................... xiii

Installation tools and components ......................................................................... xiv

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.1 Special features..........................................................................................1-1

1.1.1 Product highlights

1.1.2 “Ultimate COOL” Thermal Solutions ...........................................

1.1.3 “TUF Engine” Power Design .......................................................

1.1.4 “Safe & Stable!” Guardian Angel .................................................

1.1.5 ASUS EZ DIY ..............................................................................

1.1.6 ASUS Exclusive Features ...........................................................

1.1.7 Other special features .................................................................

1.2 Motherboard overview ...............................................................................

1.2.1 Before you proceed .....................................................................

1.2.2 Motherboard layout .....................................................................

1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................

1.2.4 System memory ........................................................................

1.2.5 Expansion slots .........................................................................

1.2.6 Onboard buttons .......................................................................

1.2.7 Jumpers ....................................................................................

1.2.8 Onboard LEDs ..........................................................................

1.2.9 Internal connectors

........................................................................ 1-1

.................................................................... 1-26

1-2

1-3

1-3

1-4

1-5

1-6

1-7

1-7

1-8

1-10

1-11

1-20

1-22

1-24

1-25

Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1 Building your PC system...........................................................................2-1

2.1.1 Motherboard installation ..............................................................

2.1.2 CPU installation

2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation ...............................

2.1.4 DIMM installation

2.1.5 ATX Power connection ................................................................

2.1.6 SATA device connection ..............................................................

2.1.7 Front I/O Connector ....................................................................

2.1.8 Expansion Card installation

2.2 BIOS update utility ...................................................................................

........................................................................... 2-3

......................................................................... 2-6

....................................................... 2-10

2-1

2-4

2-7

2-8

2-9

2-11

iii

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections .............................................2-12

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection ..................................................................

2.3.2 Audio I/O connections ...............................................................

2.4 Starting up for the rst time ....................................................................

2.5 Turning off the computer .........................................................................

2-12

2-14

2-16

2-17

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

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

3.2 BIOS setup program ..................................................................................

3.2.1 EZ Mode

3.2.2 Advanced Mode ..........................................................................

3.3 My Favorites ...............................................................................................

3.4 Main menu ..................................................................................................

3.5 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................................

3.6 Advanced menu .......................................................................................

3.6.1 CPU Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.2 PCH Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.3 SATA Conguration ...................................................................

3.6.4 System Agent Conguration

3.6.5 USB Conguration ....................................................................

3.6.6 Platform Misc Conguration ......................................................

3.6.7 Onboard Devices Conguration ................................................

3.6.8 APM ..........................................................................................

3.6.9 Network Stack ...........................................................................

3.7 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................

3.8 Boot menu ................................................................................................

3.9 Tools menu ...............................................................................................

3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............................................................

3.9.2 ASUS O.C. Prole .....................................................................

3.9.3 ASUS SPD Information .............................................................

3.10 Exit menu ..................................................................................................

3.11 Updating BIOS ..........................................................................................

3.11.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ......................................................................

3.11.2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ..........................................................

3.11.3 ASUS BIOS Updater .................................................................

...................................................................................... 3-3

...................................................... 3-31

3-2

3-4

3-6

3-7

3-9

3-25

3-26

3-28

3-30

3-33

3-34

3-35

3-37

3-38

3-39

3-43

3-49

3-49

3-49

3-50

3-51

3-52

3-53

3-54

3-55

Chapter 4: Software support

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

4.2 Support DVD information ..........................................................................

iv

4-1

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

4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals

4.3 Software information .................................................................................

4.3.1 AI Suite 3

..................................................................................... 4-4

4.3.2 Thermal Radar 2 .........................................................................

4.3.3 Remote GO! ..............................................................................

4.3.4 USB 3.0 Boost

........................................................................... 4-18

4.3.5 EZ Update .................................................................................

4.3.6 Network iControl

........................................................................ 4-20

4.3.7 USB BIOS Flashback Wizard

4.3.8 USB Charger+ ...........................................................................

4.3.9 System Information ...................................................................

4.3.10 Audio congurations

.................................................................. 4-26

.................................................. 4-3

4-4

4-7

4-12

4-19

.................................................... 4-22

4-24

4-25

Chapter 5: RAID support

5.1 RAID congurations ..................................................................................5-1

5.1.1 RAID denitions ..........................................................................

5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks ...................................................

5.1.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ....................................................

5.1.4 Intel

5.2 Installing the RAID driver during Windows

®

Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility ..................5-3

®

OS installation .................5-7

5-1

5-2

5-2

Appendices

Notices .................................................................................................................... A-1

ASUS contact information ...................................................................................... A-5

v

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.

vi

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. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the
motherboard.

• Chapter 2: Basic installation

This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when
installing system components.

• 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: RAID support

This chapter describes the RAID congurations.

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.

vii

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

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

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

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

means 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 (+).

viii

SABERTOOTH Z87 specications summary

CPU LGA1150 socket for the 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel®

Core™i5/Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors

Supports 22nm CPU

Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*

* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU

types.

Chipset Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

Memory

4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 1866 / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz,

non-ECC, un-buffered memory

Dual channel memory architecture

Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)

* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of

individual CPUs. Please refer to Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List)

for details.

Expansion slots 2 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8

mode)

1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot* (max. at x4 mode, compatible with
PCIe x1 and x4 devices)

3 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots**

* The PCIe 2.0 x16 slot shares bandwidth with PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot, PCIe

2.0 x1_2 slot, and PCIe 2.0 x1_3 slot. The PCIe 2.0 x16 slot default
setting is x1 mode.

** The PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot shares bandwidth with eSATA 6.0 Gb/s ports.

The eSATA 6.0 Gb/s ports default settings are enabled.

VGA Integrated Graphics Processor - Intel® HD Graphics support

Multi-VGA output support: DisplayPort/HDMI port

Supports DisplayPort 1.2 with max. resolution of 3840 x 2160

@60Hz

Supports HDMI with max. resolution of 4096 x 2304 @24Hz and
2560 x 1600 @60Hz

Supports Intel® InTru™ 3D, Intel® Quick Sync Video, Intel® Clear
Video HD Technology and Intel® Insider™

Supports up to three displays simultaneously

Maximum shared memory 1024MB

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

Supports AMD® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology

LAN Intel® I217-V Gigabit LAN controller

(continued on the next page)

ix

SABERTOOTH Z87 specications summary

Storage

Audio

USB

Exclusive TUF Features

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

- 6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (brown) with RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10
support

- Supports Intel
Technology, Intel® Smart Connect Technology*

®

Smart Response Technology, Intel® Rapid Start

2 x ASMedia® SATA 6Gb/s controllers**

- 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (beige)

- 2 x eSATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (red)

* These functions will work depending on the CPU installed.

** These SATA ports are for data hard drives only. ATAPI devices are not

supported.

Realtek® ALC1150 8-channel high denition audio CODEC

- High quality 112dB SNR stereo playback output (Line-out at
rear) and 104dB SNR recording input (Line-in) support.

- Absolute pitch 192khz/24bit true BD lossless sound

- BD audio layer content protection

- Supports jack-detection, multi-streaming and front panel jack­retasking

- Optical S/PDIF out ports at rear I/O

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset - supports ASUS USB 3.0
Boost

- 6 x USB 3.0 ports (2 ports at mid-board, 4 ports at rear panel)

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

- 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 4 ports at rear
panel)

“Ultimate COOL!” Thermal Solution

- TUF Thermal Armor with Flow Valve

- TUF Thermal Radar 2 with Thermistor cables

“We Got Your Back” Shape Force

- TUF Fortier

“TUF ENGINE” Power Design

- 8+2 Digital Phase Power Design

- TUF Components (Choke, Cap & MOSFET; certied by

military-standard)

- ASUS DIGI+ Power Control Utility

“SAFE & Stable!” Guardian Angel

- Dust Defender with connector caps and rear I/O dust lter

- ESD Guards

- MemOK!

- Anti-surge

(continued on the next page)

x

SABERTOOTH Z87 specications summary

Other Special Features - USB 3.0 Boost featuring speedy USB 3.0 transmission

- USB BIOS Flashback

- USB Charger+

- Network iControl

- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user
interface

- AI Suite 3

- Remote GO!

- 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 CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

- Multi-language BIOS

Rear Panel I/O Ports 1 x DisplayPort

1 x HDMI port

1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port

1 x USB BIOS Flashback button

2 x eSATA 6.0 Gb/s ports

1 x LAN (RJ45) port

4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue, 1 supports USB BIOS Flashback)

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

8-channel Audio I/O ports

Internal I/O connectors 1 x 19-pin USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB ports

(moss green)

2 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports

8 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (6 x brown; 2 x beige)

1 x 4-pin CPU Fan connector (black) supports both 3-pin (DC
mode) and 4-pin (PWM mode) CPU coolers control

1 x 4-pin CPU Optional Fan connector (CPU_OPT; black)

4 x 4-pin Chassis Fan connectors (black)

2 x 3-pin Assistant Fan connectors (white)

3 x Thermal Sensor connectors (T_Sensor)

1 x TPM connector

1 x S/PDIF out header

1 x DirectKey button

1 x DRCT (DirectKey) connector

1 x MemOK! button

(continued on the next page)

xi

SABERTOOTH Z87 specications summary

Internal I/O connectors 1 x Clear CMOS jumper

Front panel audio connector (AAFP)

System panel (Q-Connector)

24-pin EATX Power connector

8-pin EATX 12V Power connector

BIOS features 64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.7, WfM 2.0, SM

Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.7, WOL by PME, PXE

Support DVD contents Drivers

Form factor ATX form factor: 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)

Specications are subject to change without notice.

BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS

CrashFree BIOS 3, My Favorites, Quick Note, Last Modied Log,

F12 PrintScreen function, F3 Shortcut functions, and ASUS DRAM
SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information

ASUS Utilities

EZ Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

xii

User Manual

3

M

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

motherboard

4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables 1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge connector 1 x ASUS Q-Shield

1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit 2 x 35mm Assistant fans

Technical documentations,

certication and warranty card

Support DVD

2 x short fan screws

4 x long fan screws

3 x PCIe x16 slot covers

3 x PCIe x1 slot covers

1 x 40mm I/O assistant fan lid

2 x DRAM slot covers Rear I/O dust lter

1 x Connector cap set

(LAN cap, HDMI cap, DVI cap, DP

cap, Front USB 3.0 cap)

3 x Thermistor cables

7 x SATA connector caps

2 x eSATA connector caps

8 x Back I/O USB 3.0/2.0 connector

caps

• 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.

2 x Onboard USB 2.0 connector

caps

6 x Audio connector caps

1 x Adhesive foam for 35mm

assistant fan

xiii

Installation tools and components

1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver

PC chassis Power supply unit

Intel® LGA1150 CPU Intel® LGA1150 compatible CPU Fan

DIMM SATA hard disk drive

xiv

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

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

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Product introduction

1

1.1 Special features

1.1.1 Product highlights

LGA1150 socket for 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel® Core™ i5/Intel®
Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors

This motherboard supports 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel® Core™ i5/Intel® Core™ i3,
Pentium®, and Celeron® processors in the LGA1150 package. It provides great graphics and
system performance with its GPU, dual-channel DDR3 memory slots and PCI Express 2.0/3.0
expansion slots.

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset is a single chipset that supports the LGA1150 socket for 4th
generation Intel® Core™ i7/Intel® Core™ i5/Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron®

processors. It utilizes the serial point-to-point links, which increases bandwidth and enhances

the system’s performance. It natively supports up to six USB 3.0 ports for up to ten times
faster transfer rate than USB 2.0 and enables the iGPU function for Intel
performance.

PCI Express® 3.0

PCI Express® 3.0 (PCIe 3.0) is the PCI Express bus standard that provides twice the
performance and speed of PCIe 2.0. It provides an optimal graphics performance,
unprecedented data speed and seamless transition with its complete backward compatibility
to PCIe 1.0/2.0 devices.

Dual-Channel DDR3 1866 / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz Support

The motherboard supports the dual-channel DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates

of DDR3 1866 / 1600 / 1333 / 1033 MHz to boost the system’s performance, and to meet the

higher bandwidth requirements of 3D graphics, multimedia and Internet applications.

Quad-GPU SLI and Quad GPU CrossFireX™ Support

This motherboard features the most powerful Intel® Z87 platform that optimizes PCIe
allocation in multi-GPU SLI and CrossFireX™ solution, giving you a brand-new gaming
enjoyment.

®

integrated graphics

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-1

Intel® Smart Response Technology

Intel® Smart Response Technology, an important part of Green ASUS eco-friendly computing,
reduces load and wait time, eliminates unecessary hard drive spin thus lowering power
usage, and uses an installed SSD (requires 18.6 GB available space) as a cache for
frequently accessed data or applications. It combines SSD performance and hard drive
capacity, operating up to six times faster than a hard-drive-only system to boost the system’s
overall performance.

* 4th Generation Intel® Core™ processors family support Intel® Smart Response Technology.

** An operating system must be installed on the HDD to launch Intel

*** The SSD is reserved for caching function.

®

Smart Response Technology.

Intel® Smart Connect Technology

Your computer can receive fresh updates for selected applications, even when the system
is in sleep mode. This means less time waiting for applications to update and sync with the

cloud, leading to a more efcient computing experience.

Intel® Rapid Start Technology

Intel® Rapid Start Technology allows your computer to quickly resume from a low-power
hibernate state in seconds. Saving your system memory to the designated SSD, it provides
your computer a faster wake-up response time, while still keeping the energy use low.

Complete USB 3.0 integration

This motherboard offers you the strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear
panels, allowing you to experience the convenience of the latest plug and play connectivity
solution of speed up to ten times faster than USB 2.0.

Extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s Support

The Intel® Z87 Express Chipset natively supports the next-generation Serial ATA (SATA)
interface, delivering up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer. ASUS provides extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports
with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the bandwidth of current bus
systems.

1.1.2 “Ultimate COOL” Thermal Solutions

Thermal Armor with ow valve

Thermal Armor features the exclusive ow gate mechanism that allows you to open or close

the Thermal Armor via a button. When the gate is open, it provides an excellent thermal
solution for the CPU. When the gate is closed, it focuses air on heatpipes for better heat
removal, especially useful for liquid cooling.

Thermal Radar 2

Chapter 1

Thermal Radar 2 uses sensors to control motherboard temperatures, automatically adjusting

fan speeds for better system stability and power efciency. It also provides customizable fan
management that displays real-time motherboard, CPU and VGA zone cooling status, and

promotes extended system longevity, power saving solution, and noise reduction.

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1.3 “TUF Engine” Power Design

Digital Power Control

ASUS DIGI+ Power Control features the revolutionary and innovative digital VRM, DRAM,
and CPU Voltage controllers. These controllers offers ultra-precise memory and voltage

tuning for optimal system efciency, stability and performance.

TUF Components (Choke, Cap. & MOSFET; certied by military-standard)

The motherboard’s TUF components features military-standard robust TUF chokes, titanium
solid state capacitors, and MOSFETS. These TUF components support up to a massive 40A

rated current, eliminates buzzing noise and vibration, and delivers better performance, and

durability during the most extreme usage.

1.1.4 “Safe & Stable!” Guardian Angel

TUF Fortier

The metal base TUF Fortier strengthens the base of the motherboard and secures the

Thermal Armor and the motherboard in place. It reinforces the motherboard’s PCB to support
the Thermal Armor, CPU, VGA card, additional expansion cards, and other peripherals. It also
makes the motherboard easier to handle and helps protect your hands.

Dust Defender

Dust Defender provides rear I/O lter and special shields that help reduce dust build-up on
critical points within slots and connectors, minimizing any harm to the components’ optimal
functions, data transfer efciency, and system performance.

ESD Guards

ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) Guards provides protection against electrostatic discharges,
which can damage the motherboard’s components. The ASUS exclusive Anti-Static chip
and circuit design, and the I/O shield provide four times better protection and ensure the
motherboard’s lifespan.

MemOK!

MemOK!, the remarkable memory rescue tool, allows you to simply press a button to
patch memory issues, ensure memory boot compatibility, determine fail-safe settings, and
dramatically improve the system’s bootup.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-3

1.1.5 ASUS EZ DIY

ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)

ASUS UEFI BIOS, a UEFI compliant architecture, offers the rst mouse-controlled intuitive

graphical BIOS interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls,

providing you with more exibility, convenience, and easy to navigate UEFI BIOS than the

traditional BIOS versions. It offers you with dual selectable modes and native support for hard
drives larger than 2.2 TB.

ASUS UEFI BIOS includes the following new features:

• New My Favorites function allows you to quickly access the frequently used items

• New Quick Note function allows you to take notes in the BIOS environment

• New Last Modied log allows you to view all your modied settings

• F12 BIOS snapshot hotkey

• F3 Shortcut for most accessed information

• ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) information detecting faulty DIMMs, and

helping with difcult POST situations.

ASUS Q-Design

ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-Slot and Q-Shield design speed up
and simplify the DIY process.

ASUS Q-shield

ASUS Q-Shield’s special design makes it convenient and easy to install on your
motherboard. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your motherboard against
static electricity and shields it against EMI (Electronic Magnetic Interference).

ASUS Q-connector

ASUS Q-Connector is a unique adapter that allows you to easily connect or disconnect the
chassis front panel cables to one module, eliminating the hassle of plugging one cable at a
time and making the connection quick and accurate.

DirectKey

DirectKey allows you to conveniently go into the BIOS setup with the press of a button. With
this feature, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press the <Del> key during
POST. It also allows you to shut down or turn on your computer and directly enter the BIOS
during boot-up.

Chapter 1

1-4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1.6 ASUS Exclusive Features

Remote GO!

ASUS Remote GO! leads the way to a more enjoyable home entertainment. With ASUS

Remote GO!, you can wirelessly stream media les to DLNA devices, remotely control
and access your computer using your smart device and easily transfer les between your

computer and smart device.

Conveniently use and enjoy these ASUS Remote GO! functions:

Cloud GO!: Allows you to control les and sync them all across cloud services in a few

•

clicks.

DLNA Media Hub: Provides support to the latest DLNA standard and allows you to

•

stream media les to a DLNA-supported device.

Remote Desktop: Allows you to view your computer’s desktop and remotely operate

•

your computer in real-time from your smart device.

File Transfer: Allows you to transfer les between your computer and smart device.

•

USB 3.0 Boost

ASUS USB 3.0 Boost, which supports USB 3.0 standard UASP (USB Attached SCSI

Protocol), signicantly increases a USB device’s transfer speed up to 170% faster than the

already impressive USB 3.0 transfer speed. It automatically accelerates data speeds for
compatible USB 3.0 peripherals without the need for any user interaction.

USB Charger+

With a dedicated onboard controller, quick-charge all your smart devices such as
smartphones, tablets and more, all up to three times faster, even when the system is
powered off, in sleep or hibernation mode.

USB BIOS Flashback

USB BIOS Flashback offers a hassle-free updating solution for your ultimate convenience.

Install a USB storage device containing the BIOS le, press the BIOS Flashback button for

about three seconds, and the UEFI BIOS is automatically updated even without entering
the existing BIOS or operating system. It also allows you to regularly check for UEFI BIOS
updates, and download the latest BIOS automatically.

Network iControl

Network iControl is an intuitive one-step network control center that makes it easier for you to
manage your bandwidth and allows you to set, monitor and schedule the bandwidth priorities
for your network programs.

AI Suite 3

With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite 3 consolidates all the exclusive ASUS
features into one simple-to-use software package. It allows you to supervise 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.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-5

1.1.7 Other special features

DisplayPort Support

DisplayPort is a digital display interface standard that delivers up to 10.8 Gbps of bandwidth
over standard cables, providing billions of colors and bi-directional communications, thus
enabling the fastest refresh rates, and the highest resolution digital display through a single
cable. Also, it supports HDCP copy protection for Blu-ray discs. Simply output 3D signals
through the connected DisplayPort cable with your 3D display, then you can sit back and
enjoy a perfect 3D animation experience.

HDMI Support

High Denition Multimedia Surface (HDMI) is a set of digital video standards that delivers

mulit-channel audio and uncompressed digital video up to 4K/2K resolution visuals through
a single cable. Supporting HDCP copy protection such as HD DVD and blu-ray discs, HDMI
provides you with the highest quality home theater experience.

ErP Ready

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

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

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

Chapter 1

1-6

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2 Motherboard overview

1.2.1 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 Z87

Chapter 1

1-7

1.2.2 Motherboard layout

Chapter 1

1-8

Refer to 1.2.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information
about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page

1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) 1-32

2. CPU, optional, chassis, and assistant fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN,
4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1-4, 3-pin ASST_FAN1-2 )

3. LGA1150 CPU socket 1-10

4. DDR3 DIMM slots 1-11

5. MemOK! button 1-22

6. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34) 1-27

7. Intel® Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6 [brown]) 1-26

8. ASMedia® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E12 [beige]) 1-27

9. DirectKey connector (2-pin DRCT) 1-34

10. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 1-33

11. DirectKey button 1-23

12. Thermal sensor connectors (T_SENSOR1, T_SENSOR2, T_SENSOR3) 1-31

13. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112, USB1314) 1-29

14. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) 1-34

15. Standby Power LED 1-25

16. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-24

17. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-28

18. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-31

1-30

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-9

1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1150 socket designed for the 4th
Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron®
processors.

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

• Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 only. DO NOT install a
CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1150 socket.

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

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

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

LGA1150 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.

Chapter 1

1-10

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.4 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

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-11

Memory congurations

You may install 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM
sockets.

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

®

• According to Intel
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
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:

CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect

®

OS, when you install 4GB

Chapter 1

a) Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows

b) Install a 64-bit Windows

®

OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the

®

OS.

motherboard.

c) For more details, refer to the Microsoft

®

support site at http://support.microsoft.

com/kb/929605/en-us.

• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less
(Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB).

• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.5 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.

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

memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

• Memory modules with memory frequency higher than 2133MHz and their
corresponding timing or the loaded XMP prole is not the JEDEC memory standard.

The stability and compatibility of the memory modules depend on the CPU’s
capabilities and other installed devices.

1-12

Chapter 1: Product introduction

SABERTOOTH Z87 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

DDR3 2666 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip

G.SKILL F3-2666CL10Q-16GBZHD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 • •
GEIL GOC332GB2666C11QC(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support

(Optional)

2 4

DDR3 2500 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip

G.SKILL F3-20000CL10Q-16GBZHD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 10-11-11-31 1.65 • •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support

(Optional)

2 4

DDR3 2400 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip

A-DATA AX3U2400GC4G10(XMP) 4GB DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 • •
Apacer 78.BAGFL.AFD0C(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 11-12-12-30 - • •
Apacer 783BAGF3.AFD0C(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 - • •
CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M2A2400C10

CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M4A2400C9R

G.SKILL F3-19200CL10Q-

G.SKILL F3-19200CL11Q-

G.SKILL F3-19200CL11Q-

G.SKILL F3-19200CL9D-

G.SKILL F3-19200CL9Q-

GEIL GET34GB2400C9DC(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 • •
GEIL GOC316GB2400C10

GEIL GOC316GB2400C11

Kingston KHX2400C11D3K4/

KINGSTON KHX24C11K4/16X(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-13-13-30 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX24C11T2K2/8X(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - - 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX24C11T3K4/32X(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •
Patriot PVV34G2400C9K(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.66 •
Patriot PXD38G2400C11K(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.65 • •
Patriot PXD38G2400C11K(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 2400 11-11-11-30 1.65 • •
Team TXD38G2400HC

(Ver4.21)

(Ver4.13)(XMP)

32GBZHD(XMP)

16GBZHD(XMP)

16GBZHD(XMP)

4GBPIS(XMP)

16GBZMD(XMP)

QC(XMP)

QC(XMP)

8GX(XMP)

10QBK(XMP)

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 • •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 2400 9-11-11-31 1.65 • •

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 • •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.65 • •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.65 • •

4G (2x2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-11-31 1.65 • •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 10-11-11-30 1.65 • •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.65 • •

8GB (4x2GB) SS - - 11-13-11-30 1.65 • •

8GB DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65 • •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support

(Optional)

2 4

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-13

DDR3 2200 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip

G.SKILL F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4G (2x2GB) DS - - 7-10-10-28 1.65 • •
GEIL GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.65 • •
GEIL GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 • •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support

(Optional)

2 4

DDR3 2133 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip

A-DATA AX3U2133XC4G10(XMP) 4GB DS - - 10-11-11-30 1.65 • •
A-DATA AX3U2133XW8G10(XMP) 8GB DS - - 10-11-11-30 1.65 • •
Apacer 78.BAGE4.AFD0C(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 - • •
Apacer AHU04GFB33CAQ3R(XMP) 4GB DS - - 11-13-13-31 - • •
CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A2133C9 (Ver1.5)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-10-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(Ver7.1)(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-17000CL11Q2-64GBZLD(XMP) 64GB (8x8GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-17000CL9Q-16GBXLD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65 • •
G.SKILL F3-17000CL9Q-16GBZH(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-10-28 1.65 • •
G.SKILL F3-17066CL9D-8GBPID(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •
G.SKILL F3-17066CL9Q-16GBTDD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •
G.SKILL F3-2133C11Q-32GZL(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.5 • •
KINGSTON KHX2133C11D3K4/16GX(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-12-11-30 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX2133C11D3T1K2/16GX(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6 •
KINGSTON KHX21C11T3FK8/64X(XMP) 64GB (8x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 •
OCZ OCZ3XTEP2133C9LV4GK 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 •
Patriot PV316G213C1K(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.5 • •
Patriot PVV34G2133C9K(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.66 • •
Patriot PXD38G2133C11K(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •
Patriot PXD38G2133C11K(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 2133 11-11-11-27 1.5 • •
Team TLD38G2133HC11ABK(XMP) 8GB DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.65 • •
Team TXD34096M2133HC11A-V(XMP) 4GB DS - - 11-11-11-31 1.65 • •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support

(Optional)

2 4

DDR3 2000 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

AEXEA AXA3ES2G2000LG28V(XMP) 2GB DS - - - 1.65 • •
AEXEA AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - - 1.65 • •
Apacer 78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-27 - • •
Asint SLA302G08-ML2HB(XMP) 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFRH9C 9-9-9-27 - • •
G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •
G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •
GEIL GUP34GB2000C9DC(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65 • •

Chapter 1

Patriot PV736G2000ELK(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 • •
Patriot PX7312G2000ELK(XMP) 12GB (3x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 • •
Silicon Power SP002GBLYU200S02(XMP) 2GB DS - - - - • •
Team TXD32048M2000C9(XMP) 2GB DS Team T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
Team TXD32048M2000C9-L(XMP) 2GB DS Team T3D1288LT-20 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
Team TXD32048M2000C9-L(XMP) 2GB DS Team T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24 1.6 • •

1-14

Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM

Brand

Chapter 1: Product introduction

socket
support

(Optional)

2 4

DDR3 1866 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver5.29)(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 1866 9-9-9-27 1.5 •
CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A1866C9 (Ver4.13)(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A1866C9 (Ver8.16)(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver4.13)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - - 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver5.12)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •
CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver8.16)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •
CORSAIR CMT32GX3M4X1866C9(Ver3.23)(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M4X1866C9R (Ver8.16)(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M4X1866C9R(Ver 8.16)(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M4X1866C10 (Ver3.23)(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M4X1866C10(Ver3.23)(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver8.16)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 •
CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9G (Ver5.12)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 1866 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
Crucial BLE4G3D1869DE1XT0.16FMD(XMP) 4GB DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-14900CL10Q2-64GBZLD(XMP) 64GB (8x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-14900CL9D-8GBSR(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-16GBXL(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-16GBZL(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-8GBFLD(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6 • •
G.SKILL F3-1866C9Q-32GXM(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5 • •
KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3K2/8GX(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - - 1.65 • •
Patriot PXD34G1866ELK(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •
Patriot PXD38G1866ELK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 • •
Patriot PXD38G1866ELK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65 • •
Patriot PXD38G1866ELK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 1866 9-10-9-27 1.5 • •
Team TLD34G1866HC9KBK(XMP) 4GB DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.5 • •
Team TLD38G1866HC10SBK(XMP) 8GB DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5 • •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM

NO.

socket
support

(Optional)

2 4

DDR3 1800 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip

G.SKILL F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6 • •

Brand

Chip

Timing Voltage DIMM socket

NO.

support (Optional)

2 4

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip

A-DATA AD3U1600C2G11 2GB SS MICRON D9PFJ 11-11-11-28 - • •
A-DATA AD3U1600C4G11 4GB DS MICRON D9PFJ 11-11-11-28 - • •
A-DATA AD3U1600W4G11 4GB SS A-DATA 3WCD-1211A 11-11-11-28 - • •
A-DATA AD3U1600W8G11 8GB DS A-DATA 3WCD-1211A 11-11-11-28 - • •
AMD AE32G1609U1-U 2GB SS AMD 23EY4587MB6H - 1.5 • •
AMD AE34G1609U2-U 4GB DS AMD 23EY4587MB6H - 1.5 • •
AMD AP38G1608U2K(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65 • •
Apacer 78.B1GE3.9L10C 4GB DS Apacer AM5D5908DEQSCK - 1.65 • •
Apacer 78.B1GET.9K00C 4GB SS Apacer AM5D6008BQQSCK 11-11-11-28 - • •
Apacer 78.C1GET.9K10C 8GB DS Apacer AM5D6008BQQSCK 11-11-11-31 - • •
Apacer AHU04GFA60C9Q1D(XMP) 4GB DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65 • •
Apacer AHU04GFA60C9Q3R(XMP) 4GB DS - - 11-11-11-28 - • •
Apacer AHU08GFA60CBT3R(XMP) 8GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 - • •
Asint SLA302G08-EGG1C(XMP) 4GB DS Asint 302G08-GG1C 9-9-9-27 - • •

(continued on the next page)

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket

Brand

support (Optional)

2 4

Chapter 1

1-15

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

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

Asint SLA302G08-EGJ1C(XMP) 4GB DS Asint 302G08-GJ1C 9-9-9-27 - • •
Asint SLA302G08-EGN1C 4GB DS ASint 302G08-GN1C - - • •
Asint SLB304G08-EGN1B 8GB DS ASint 304G08-GN1B - - • •
Asint SLZ302G08-EGN1C 2GB SS ASint 302G08-GN1C - - • •
Asint SLZ3128M8-EGJ1D(XMP) 2GB DS Asint 3128M8-GJ1D - - • •
ATP AQ12M64B8BKK0S 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G08460 - NO • •
CORSAIR CMD16GX3M2A1600C9

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1600C8

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1600C9

CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 • •
CORSAIR CML16GX3M4X1600C8(Ver

CORSAIR CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •
CORSAIR CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •
CORSAIR CMX6GX3M3C1600C7(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 7-8-7-20 1.65 • •
CORSAIR CMX8GX3M2A1600C9

CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M2A1600C10

CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M4X1600C10

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M4X1600C9(Ver

CORSAIR HX3X12G1600C9(XMP) 12GB (6x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6 • •
Crucial BL12864BN1608.8FF(XMP) 2GB (2x1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •
Crucial BLT4G3D1608DT1TX0.16F

EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9 - • •
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9 - • •
Elixir M2X2G64CB88G7N-DG(XMP) 2GB SS Elixir N2CB2G80GN-DG9-9-9-28 - • •

Elixir M2X4G64CB8HG5N-DG(XMP) 4GB DS Elixir N2CB2G80GN-DG9-9-9-28 - • •

Elixir M2X8G64CB8HB5N-DG(XMP) 8GB DS Elixir N2CB4G80BN-DG9-9-9-28 1.5 • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-8GBRH(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6 • •
G.SKILL F3-12800CL7Q-16GBXH(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6 • •
G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-8GBECO(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.35 •
G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-8GBSR2(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.25 • •
G.SKILL F3-12800CL9Q-16GBXL(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
G.Skill F3-12800CL9Q-16GBZL(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-1600C9Q-32GXM(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - - 1.5 • •
GEIL GET316GB1600C9QC(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.6 • •
GEIL GUP34GB1600C7DC(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.6 • •
GoodRam GR1600D364L9/2G 2GB DS GoodRam GF1008KC-JN - - • •
KINGMAX FLGE85F-C8KL9A(XMP) 2GB SS KINGMAX N/A 9-9-9-28 - • •
KINGMAX FLGF65F-C8KL9A(XMP) 4GB DS KINGMAX N/A 9-9-9-28 - • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB (3x4GB) DS - - - 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB (3x4GB) DS - - 9 1.65 • •

Chapter 1

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K4/16GX(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K6/24GX(XMP) 24GB (6x4GB) DS - - 9 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K8/32GX(XMP) 32GB (8x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65 • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3LK2/8GX(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.35 • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3P1K2/8G 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9 1.5 • •
KINGSTON KHX16C10B1K2/16X(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - - 1.5 • •
KINGSTON KHX16C9K2/16 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 1333-9-9-

KINGSTON KHX16C9P1K2/16 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - - 1.5 • •

(Ver8.21)(XMP)

(Ver5.12)(XMP)

(Ver2.12)(XMP)

2.12)(XMP)

(Ver3.19)(XMP)

(Ver.3.24)(XMP)

(Ver2.2)(XMP)

2.12)(XMP)

M(XMP)

socket
support

(Optional)

2 4

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 1600 8-8-8-24 1.5 • •

8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •

16GB (4x4GB) DS - - Heat-Sink

8GB (2x4GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-10-10-27 1.5 • •

32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-10-10-27 1.5 • •

8GB (4x2GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •

4GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5 • •

Package

9-24

1.5 • •

1.5 • •

(continued on the next page)

1-16

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

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

KINGSTON KVR16N11/4 4G DS Hynix H5TQ2G83CFRPBC - 1.5 • •
KINGTIGER KTG2G1600PG3(XMP) 2GB DS - - - - • •
MICRON MT16JTF1G64AZ-1G6D1 8GB DS MICRON D9PBC - 1.5 • •
MICRON MT16KTF51264AZ-1G6M1 4GB DS MICRON D9PFJ - - • •
MICRON MT8KTF25664AZ-1G6M1 2GB SS MICRON D9PFJ - - • •
Mushkin 996805(XMP) 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 6-8-6-24 1.65 • •
Mushkin 998805(XMP) 6GB (3x2GB) DS - - 6-8-6-24 1.65 • •
OCZ OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 •
Patriot PGD316G1600ELK(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - - 1.65 • •
Patriot PGD316G1600ELK(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
Patriot PGD38G1600ELK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •
Patriot PGD38G1600ELK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 •
Patriot PGS34G1600LLKA 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 • •
Patriot PGS34G1600LLKA2 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.7 • •
Patriot PV316G160C9QKRD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
Patriot PV38G160C9KRD(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
Patriot PVV38G1600LLK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 8-9-8-24 1.65 • •
Patriot PX7312G1600LLK(XMP) 12GB (3x4GB) DS - - 8-9-8-24 1.65 • •
Patriot PXD38G1600LLK(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 1600 8-9-8-24 1.65 • •
PSC AL9F8L93B-GN2E 4GB SS PSC A3P4GF3BLF - - • •
PSC ALAF8L93B-GN2E 8GB DS PSC A3P4GF3BLF - - • •
SanMax SMD-4G68HP-16KZ 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFRPBC - 1.5 • •
SanMax SMD-4G68NG-16KK 4GB DS ELPIDA J2108BDBG-GN-F - - • •
Silicon

SP002GBLTU160V02(XMP) 2GB SS S-POWER 20YT5NG 9-11-11-28 1.5 • •

Power
Silicon

SP004GBLTU160V02(XMP) 4GB DS S-POWER 20YT5NG 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •

Power
Team TXD34096M1600HC9-D(XMP) 4GB DS Hynix H5TC2G83BFRH9A 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
Transcend JM1600KLH-8G(626633) 8GB DS Transcend TK963EBF3 - - • •
Transcend TS1GLK64V6H(620945) 8GB DS SAMSUNG K4B4G0846B - - • •

socket
support

(Optional)

2 4

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

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

ACTICA ACT1GHU64B8F1333S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • •
ACTICA ACT1GHU72C8G1333S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC) - - • •
ACTICA ACT2GHU64B8G1333M 2GB DS Micron D9KPT - - • •
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) - - • •
AMD AE32G1339U1-U 2GB SS AMD 23EY4587MB3H - 1.5 • •
AMD AE34G1339U2-U 4GB DS AMD 23EY4587MB3H - 1.5 • •
Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808FEQSBG 9 - • •
Apacer 78.B1GDE.9L10C 4GB DS Apacer AM5D5908CEHSBG 9 - • •
Asint SLA302G08-EDJ1C 2GB SS ASint 302G08-DJ1C - - • •
Asint SLZ302G08-EDJ1C 4GB DS ASint 302G08-DJ1C - - • •
ATP AQ12M72E8BKH9S 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C(ECC) - - • •
BUFFALO D3U1333-1G 1GB SS Elpida J1108BFBG-DJ-F - - • •
BUFFALO D3U1333-2G 2GB DS Elpida J1108BFBG-DJ-F - • •
BUFFALO D3U1333-4G 4GB DS NANYA NT5CB256M8BN-CG - • •
CORSAIR CMV4GX3M2A1333C9 4GB (2x2GB) SS - N/A 9-9-9-24 - • •
CORSAIR CMV8GX3M2A1333C9 8GB (2x4GB) DS - N/A 9-9-9-24 - • •
CORSAIR CMX8GX3M1A1333C9 (Ver2.2) 8GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 •
CORSAIR CMX8GX3M1A1333C9 (Ver3.23) 8GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 •
CORSAIR CMX8GX3M2A1333C9(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
CORSAIR TW3X4G1333C9A 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 •

(continued on the next page)

socket
support

(Optional)

2 4

Chapter 1

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

1-17

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

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

EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9 - • •
G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT 4GB (2x2GB) DS G.SKILL D3 128M8CE9 2GB 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
G.SKILL F3-10666CL9D-8GBXL 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
GEIL GB34GB1333C7DC 4GB (2x2GB) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA15FW 7-7-7-24 1.5 • •
GEIL GET316GB1333C9QC 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB (2x2GB) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA115FW 9-9-9-24 1.3 • •
GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB (2x2GB) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA15B 9-9-9-24 1.3 • •
GEIL GVP34GB1333C9DC 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
GEIL GVP38GB1333C9DC 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
GoodRam GR1333D364L9/2G 2GB DS Qimonda IDSH1G-03A1F1C-13H - - • •
Hynix HMT125U6TFR8A-H9 2GB DS Hynix H5TC1G83TFR - - • •
INNODISK M3UN-2GHJBC09 2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G83CFRH9C 9-9-9-24 - • •
INNODISK M3UN-4GHJAC09 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83CFRH9C 9-9-9-24 - • •
KINGMAX FLFE85F-B8KL9 2GB DS KINGMAX KFB8FNLXL-BNF-15A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KL9 2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FNLBF-GXX-12A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KL9 2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KM9 2GB SS Kingmax KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8KL9 4GB DS KINGMAX KFC8FNLBF-GXX-12A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8KL9 4GB DS KINGMAX KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8KM9 4GB DS Kingmax KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • •
KINGSTON KVR1333D3E9S/4G 4GB DS Elpida J2108ECSE-DJ-F 9 1.5 •
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9H/4G 4GB DS ELPIDA J2108BDBG-GN-F - 1.5 • •
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9H/8G 8GB DS ELPIDA J4208EASE-DJ-F 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
KINGSTON KVR13N9S8H/4 4GB SS ELPIDA J4208BBBG-GN-F - 1.5 • •
KINGTIGER F10DA2T1680 2GB DS KINGTIGER KTG1333PS1208NST-C9- - • •

KINGTIGER KTG2G1333PG3 2GB DS - - - - • •
Mach Xtreme MXD3U133316GQ 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - - - • •
Mach Xtreme MXD3V23332GS 2GB SS Mach Xtreme C2S46D30-D313 - - • •
MICRON MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4M1 2GB SS MICRON D9PFJ - - • •
OCZ OCZ3G1333LV4GK 4GB (2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 •
OCZ OCZ3G1333LV8GK 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 •
OCZ OCZ3G1333LV8GK 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 •
OCZ OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 •
Patriot PG38G1333EL(XMP) 8GB DS - - - 1.5 • •
Patriot PGD316G1333ELK(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • •
Patriot PSD32G13332 2GB DS Prtriot PM128M8D3BU-15 9 - • •
RiDATA C304627CB1AG22Fe 2GB DS RiDATA C304627CB1AG22Fe 9 - • •
RiDATA E304459CB1AG32Cf 4GB DS RiDATA E304459CB1AG32Cf 9 - • •
SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH9 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C - - • •
Silicon Power SP001GBLTE133S01 1GB SS NANYA NT5CB128M8AN-CG - - • •
Silicon Power SP001GBLTU133S02 1GB SS S-POWER 10YT3E5 9 - • •
Silicon Power SP002GBLTU133V02 2GB SS S-POWER 20YT3NG 9-9-9-24 - • •
Silicon Power SP004GBLTU133V02 4GB DS S-POWER 20YT3NG 9-9-9-24 - •
Team TED34096M1333HC9 4GB DS Team T3D2568LT-13 - - • •
Transcend JM1333KLH-8G(623654) 8GB DS Transcend TK963EBF3 - - • •
Transcend TS1GLK64V3H(620053) 8GB DS MICRON D9QBJ - - • •

socket
support

(Optional)

2 4

Chapter 1

1-18

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided DIMM support:

(1) Supports one (1) module inserted into any slot as Single-channel memory

conguration. We suggest that you install the module into A2 slot.

(2) Supports two (2) modules inserted into either the dark brown slots or the beige slots

as one pair of Dual-channel memory conguration. We suggest that you install the

modules into slots A2 and B2 for better compatibility.

(4) Supports four (4) modules inserted into both the dark brown slots and beige slots as

two pairs of Dual-channel memory conguration.

• ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function.

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

• Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-19

1.2.5 Expansion slots

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

Slot No. Slot Description

1 PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot

2 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot

3 PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot

4 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot

5 PCIe 2.0 x1_3 slot

Chapter 1

6 PCIe 2.0 x16_3 slot

1-20

Chapter 1: Product introduction

PCIe x16_3

Conguration

x1 mode x1 x1 x1 x1 Disabled

x4 mode x4 Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled

eSATA mode x1 N/A x1 x1 Enabled

PCIe x16_3 PCIe x1_1 PCIe x1_2 PCIe x1_3 eSATA 6Gb/s

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

mode.

• Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when
using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

PCI Express sharing mode

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

A B C D E F G H

PCIe x16_1 shared – – – – – – –

PCIe x16_2 – shared – – – – – –
PCIe x16_3 shared – – – – – – –
PCIe x1_1 shared – – – – – – –
PCIe x1_2 – shared – – – – – –
PCIe x1_3 – – shared – – – – –
SMBUS Controller – – shared – – – – –
Intel® SATA Controller – – – shared – – – –
Intel® LAN – – – – shared – – –

USB 2.0 (mid-board) shared – – – – – – –

USB 2.0 (rear I/O) – – – – – – – shared

USB 3.0 – – – – – shared – –
ASM1061 SATA

Controller (rear I/O)

ASM1061 SATA
Controller (mid-board)

HD Audio – – – – – – shared –

– – shared – – – – –

– – shared – – – – –

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-21

1.2.6 Onboard buttons

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

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

1. MemOK! button

Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system
boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously. Press
and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic
memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.

Chapter 1

• Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.

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

®

• The MemOK! button does not function under Windows

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

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

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

the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

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

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

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

OS environment.

1-22

Chapter 1: Product introduction

2. DirectKey button

This feature allows your system to go to the BIOS Setup program with the press of a
button. With DirectKey, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press the
<Delete> key during POST. It also allows you to turn on or turn off your system and
conveniently enter the BIOS during boot-up.

Ensure to save your data before using the DirectKey button.

• When the system is on and you press the DirectKey button, your system will shut
down. Press the DirectKey button again or the Power-on button to reboot and enter
the BIOS directly.

• Turn off your system using the power-on button to allow your system to go through
POST (without entering the BIOS) when you reboot your system.

• Refer to section
function.

3.8 Boot Menu for details about setting the DirectKey default

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 1

1-23

1.2.7 Jumpers

1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)

This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can
clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing
the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in
CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.

To erase the RTC RAM:

1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.

2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3 for
about 5-10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.

3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.

4. Hold down the <Delete> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter
data.

Chapter 1

1-24

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

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

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

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

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.8 Onboard LEDs

1. POST State LEDs

The POST State LEDs provide the status of these key components during POST
(Power-On-Self Test): CPU, memory modules, VGA card, and hard disk drive.s If an
error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit up until the problem is solved.

2. Standby Power LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED lights up to
indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder
that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or
plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of
the onboard LED.

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1-25

1.2.9 Internal connectors

1. Intel® Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6 [brown])

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

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

conguration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z87

chipset.

Chapter 1

1-26

• These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.6.3 SATA Conguration for details.

• Before creating a RAID set, refer to section
bundled in the motherboard support DVD.

5.1 RAID congurations or the manual

Chapter 1: Product introduction

2. ASMedia® Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E12 [beige])

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

• ASMedia storage controller can only support AHCI mode.

• These SATA ports are for data drives only.

3. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)

This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.0 module for additional USB 3.0 front

or rear panel ports. With an installed USB 3.0 module, you can enjoy all the benets of

USB 3.0 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, faster charging time for

USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efciency, and backward compatibility with

USB 2.0.

• The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately.

• These connectors are based on xHCI specication. We recommend you to install the

related driver to fully use the USB 3.0 ports under Windows® 7 or later Windows® OS.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

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1-27

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

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

The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

Chapter 1

1-28

Chapter 1: Product introduction

5. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112; USB1314)

These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of
these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system

chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specication that supports up to

48 MBps connection speed.

DO NOT connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!

You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, dark brown)

rst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis

supports front panel USB ports.

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

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1-29

6. CPU, optional, chassis, and assistant fan connectors

(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-4; 3-pin ASST_FAN1-2)

Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the
black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

Chapter 1

1-30

• DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air ow

inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers!
Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors!

• Ensure that the CPU FAN cable is securely installed to the CPU fan connector.

• The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.

• The CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN and ASST_FAN connectors support the TUF Thermal
Radar 2 feature.

• To fully use the fan control function, ensure that you connect only an assistant fan to
the ASST_FAN connectors.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

7. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports
either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel
audio I/O module cable to this connector.

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

• If you want to connect a high-denition or an AC’97 front panel audio module to this

connector, set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD] or [AC97].

8. Thermal Sensor connectors (2-pin T_SENSOR1; T_SENSOR2;T_SENSOR3)

These connectors are for the thermistor cables that monitor the temperature of the
devices and the critical components inside the motherboard. Connect the thermistor
cable and place the sensor on the device or the motherboard’s component to detect its
temperature.

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1-31

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

These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are

designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and
push down rmly until the connectors completely t.

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

minimum power of 350 W.

• DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug. Otherwise, the
system will not boot.

• We recommend that you use a PSU with a higher power output when conguring a

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

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

• If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.

Chapter 1

1-32

Chapter 1: Product introduction

10. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

• System power LED (2-pin PLED)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED
cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system
power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.

• Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)

This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable

to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or ashes when data is read from or written to

the HDD.

• System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)

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

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

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

• Reset button (2-pin RESET)

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without
turning off the system power.

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1-33

11. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

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

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

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

12. DirectKey connector (2-pin DRCT)

This connector is for the chassis-mounted button that supports the DirectKey function.
Connect the button cable that supports DirectKey, from the chassis to this connector on
the motherboard.

Chapter 1

1-34

Ensure that your chassis comes with the extra button cable that supports the DirectKey
feature. Refer to the technical documentation that came with the chassis for details.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 2: Basic installation

Basic installation

2.1 Building your PC system

2.1.1 Motherboard installation

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

1. Install the ASUS Q-Shield to the chassis rear I/O panel.

2

2. Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to
the chassis’ rear I/O panel.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 2

2-1

3. Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the
chassis.

Chapter 2

2-2

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

Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1.2 CPU installation

Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 socket only. DO NOT install
a CPU designed for LGA155 and LGA1156 socket on the LGA1150 socket.

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2-3

2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation

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

To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

Chapter 2

2-4

Chapter 2: Basic installation

To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 2

2-5

2.1.4 DIMM installation

To remove a DIMM

Chapter 2

2-6

Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1.5 ATX Power connection

OR OR

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Chapter 2

2-7

2.1.6 SATA device connection

OR

OR

Chapter 2

2-8

Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.1.7 Front I/O Connector

IDE LED

POWER SW

RESET SW

HDD LED-

HDD LED+

PWR

Reset

Ground

Ground

To install ASUS Q-Connector

To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector

USB 2.0

To install USB 3.0 Connector

USB 3.0

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

AAFP

Chapter 2

2-9

2.1.8 Expansion Card installation

To install PCIe x16 cards

To install PCIe x1 cards

Chapter 2

2-10

Chapter 2: Basic installation

2.2 BIOS update utility

USB BIOS Flashback

USB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the existing
BIOS or operating system. Simply insert a USB storage device to the USB port, press the
USB BIOS Flashback button for three seconds, and the BIOS is updated automatically.

To use USB BIOS Flashback:

1. Place the bundled support DVD to the optical drive and install the USB BIOS

Flashback Wizard. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.

2. Insert the USB storage device to the USB Flashback port.

We recommend you to use a USB 2.0 storage device to save the latest BIOS version for
better compatibility and stability.

3. Launch the USB BIOS Flashback Wizard to automatically download the latest BIOS

version.

4. Press the BIOS Flashback button for three seconds until a ashing light appears, which

indicates that the BIOS Flashback function is enabled.

5. Wait until the light goes out, indicating that the BIOS updating process is completed.

For more BIOS update utilities in BIOS setup, refer to the section 3.11 Updating BIOS in
Chapter 3.

• Do not unplug portable disk, power system, or use the CLR_CMOS jumper while
BIOS update is ongoing, otherwise update will be interrupted. In case of interruption,
please follow the steps again.

• If the light ashes for ve seconds and turns into a solid light, this means that the

BIOS Flashback is not operating properly. This may be caused by improper installation

of the USB storage device and lename/le format error. If this scenario happens,

please restart the system to turn off the light.

• Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process
and results to the system’s failure to boot up, please contact your local ASUS Service
Center.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

USB BIOS Flashback button

USB BIOS
Flashback port

Chapter 2

2-11

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection

Rear panel connectors

1. USB 2.0 ports 7-10 6. External SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports

2. USB 3.0 ports 5-6 7. DisplayPort

3. Optical S/PDIF Out port 8. HDMI port

4. LAN (RJ-45) port* 9. USB 3.0 ports 1-2, support ASUS USB

5. USB BIOS Flashback button 10. Audio I/O ports**

Chapter 2

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

2-12

3.0 Boost. Bottom port supports USB
BIOS Flashback and USB Charger+

Chapter 2: Basic installation

• USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only.

• We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster
and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.

®

• Due to the design of the Intel
USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller. Some legacy USB

devices must update their rmware for better compatibility.

8 series chipset, all USB devices connected to the

* LAN ports LED indications

Activity Link LED Speed LED

Status Description Status Description

Off

Orange

Orange (Blinking)

Orange (Blinking
then steady)

No link Off 10 Mbps connection

Linked Orange 100 Mbps connection

Data activity Green 1 Gbps connection

Ready to wake up
from S5 mode

ACT/LINK

LED

LAN port

SPEED

LED

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

Port Headset

2-channel

Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In

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

Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In

Orange – – Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer

Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out

Gray – – – Side Speaker Out

4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

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2.3.2 Audio I/O connections

Audio I/O ports

Connect to Headphone and Mic

Connect to Stereo Speakers

Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers

Chapter 2

2-14

Chapter 2: Basic installation

Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers

Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers

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Chapter 2

2-15

Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers

2.4 Starting up for the rst time

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

2. Ensure that all switches are off.

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

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

5. Turn on the devices in the following order:

a. Monitor

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

c. System power

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

Chapter 2

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

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

2-16

Chapter 2: Basic installation

BIOS Beep Description

One short beep VGA detected

Quick boot set to disabled

No keyboard detected

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

One continuous beep followed by three
short beeps

One continuous beep followed by four
short beeps

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

No memory detected

No VGA detected

Hardware component failure

2.5 Turning off the computer

While the system is ON, press the power button for less than four seconds to put the system
on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Press the power switch
for more than four seconds to let the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS
setting.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 2

2-17

Chapter 2

2-18

Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

BIOS setup

3

3.1 Knowing BIOS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

normal circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure
optimal performance. DO NOT change the default BIOS settings except in the following
circumstances:

q An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you

to run the BIOS Setup.

q You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or

update.

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

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

When downloading or updating the BIOS le, rename it as Z87ST.CAP for this
motherboard.

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Chapter 3

3-1

3.2 BIOS setup program

Use the BIOS Setup to update the BIOS or congure its parameters. The BIOS screen

include navigation keys and brief onscreen help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup
program.

Entering BIOS at startup

To enter BIOS Setup at startup, press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you
do not press <Delete>, POST continues with its routines.

Entering BIOS Setup after POST

To enter BIOS Setup after POST:

q Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously.

Press the reset button on the system chassis.

q

Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you

q

failed to enter BIOS Setup using the rst two options.

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

• Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the
mouse to control the BIOS setup program.

• If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized
Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey <F5>. See section 3.10 Exit Menu
for details.

• If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and
reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 1.2.7 Jumpers for information
on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS jumper.

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

BIOS menu screen

The BIOS Setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.
You can change modes from the Exit menu or from the Exit/Advanced Mode screen.

Chapter 3

3-2

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.2.1 EZ Mode

By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ
Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select
the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access the
Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode or press <F7> hot
key for the advanced BIOS settings.

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

Setup Mode item in section 3.8 Boot menu for details.

Displays the CPU/motherboard
temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage
output, CPU/chassis/power fan speed

Selects the Advanced
mode functions

Selects the boot
device priority

Displays the Advanced
mode menus

Selects the display language
of the BIOS setup program

Selects the boot

device priority

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

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

Loads optimized
default settings

• The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.

• The

Boot Menu (F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the

system.

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Chapter 3

3-3

3.2.2 Advanced Mode

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

To access the Advanced Mode, click Exit, then select Advanced Mode or press F7 hotkey.

Back button

Menu bar

Menu items

Menu bar

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

Submenu item

Pop-up window

Conguration elds

Scroll bar

Navigation keys

General help

Last modied

settings

Quick note

My Favorites For saving the frequently-used system settings and conguration.

Chapter 3

Main For changing the basic system conguration

Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Monitor

Boot For changing the system boot conguration

Tool For conguring options for special functions
Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

3-4

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

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example,

selecting Main shows the Main menu items.

The other items (My Favorites, Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the
menu bar have their respective menu items.

Back button

This button appears when entering a submenu. Press <Esc> or use the USB mouse to click
this button to return to the previous menu screen.

Submenu items

A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a
submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.

Pop-up window

Select a menu item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the conguration

options for that item.

Scroll bar

A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not t on

the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the
other items on the screen.

Navigation keys

At the bottom right corner of the menu screen are the navigation keys for the BIOS setup
program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.

If you delete all shortcut items from the F3: Shortcut list, the default shortcut items will
reappear after your next startup.

General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. Use
<F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removable storage device.

Conguration elds

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

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

press <Enter> to display a list of options.

Quick Note button

This button allows you to enter notes of the activities that you have done in BIOS.

• The Quick Note function does not support the following keyboard functions: delete,
cut, copy and paste.

• You can only use the alphanumeric characters to enter your notes.

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Chapter 3

3-5

Last Modied button

This button shows the items that you last modied and saved in BIOS Setup.

3.3 My Favorites

MyFavorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite
BIOS items.

Adding items to My Favorites

To add frequently-used BIOS items to My Favorites:

1. Use the arrow keys to select an item that you want to add. When using a mouse, hover
the pointer to the item.

2. Press <F4> on your keyboard or right-click on your mouse to add the item to My

Chapter 3

3-6

Favorites page.

You cannot add the following items to My Favorites:

• Items with submenu options

• User-congurable items such as language and boot device order

• Conguration items such as Memory SPD Information, system time and date

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.4 Main menu

The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup
program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and
allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings.

Security

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

• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)

RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.2.7 Jumpers for information on how
to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS jumper.

• The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default

Installed]. After you set a password, these items show [Installed].

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

[Not

Chapter 3

3-7

Administrator Password

If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator
password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to see or change only

selected elds in the BIOS setup program.

To set an administrator password:

1. Select the

2. From the

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the

2. From the
<Enter>.

3. From the

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator

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

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

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

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

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

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

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

User Password

If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.
The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a
password, this item shows Installed.

To set a user password:

1. Select the

2. From the

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

Chapter 3

3-8

User Password item and press <Enter>.

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

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

To change a user password:

1. Select the

2. From the
<Enter>.

3. From the

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

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

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

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

User Password item and press <Enter>.

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

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

3.5 Ai Tweaker menu

The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to congure the overclocking-related items.

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect eld

values can cause the system to malfunction.

The conguration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you

installed on the motherboard.

Scroll down to display other BIOS items.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 3

3-9

Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]

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

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

[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Manual] Allows you to automatically optimize the CPU ratio and BCLK frequency.

[X.M.P.] Allows your system to automatically optimize the CPU ratio, BCLK

Filter PLL [Auto]

Allows you to select a BCLK (base clock) mode when running in a high or low BCLK.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Low BCLK Mode] [High BCLK Mode]

BCLK Frequency [100.0]

Allows you to set the BCLK frequency to enhance the system performance. Use the

<+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 80.0MHz to 300.0MHz.

eXtreme Memory Profile

Allows you to select the X.M.P. mode supported by your memory module.

Conguration options: [Prole #1] [Prole #2]

frequency, and memory parameters. If you install memory modules

supporting the eXtreme Memory Prole (X.M.P.) Technology, select this
item to set the proles supported by your memory modules for optimizing

the system performance.

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

The following item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [X.M.P.].

ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Enabled]

[Enabled] Default set to [Enabled] for maximum performance under XMP/Manual/

[Disabled] Allows you to set to default core ratio settings.

User-dened memory frequency mode.

CPU Core Ratio [Sync All Cores]

Allows you to set the CPU ratio and synchronize automatically either per core or all cores.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Sync All Cores] [Per Core]

Chapter 3

3-10

When the CPU Core Ratio is set to [Sync All Cores], the following item appears:

1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually
assign a 1-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 2-Core
Ratio Limit.

2-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually
assign a 2-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3-Core
Ratio Limit.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

If you assign a value for 2-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit to [Auto].

3-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually
assign a 3-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 4-Core
Ratio Limit.

If you assign a value for 3-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit and 2-Core
Ratio Limit to [Auto].

4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually
assign a 4-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3-Core
Ratio Limit.

If you assign a value for 4-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit, 2-Core Ratio
Limit, and 3-Core Ratio to [Auto].

Min CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the minimum possible ratio on the Uncore part of the processor. Use the
<+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.

Max CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the maximum possible ratio on the Uncore part of the processor. Use the
<+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.

Internal PLL Overvoltage [Auto]

Allows you to enable the internal PLL Overvoltage for K-SKU CPUs to get the extreme
overclocking capability.

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

CPU bus speed : DRAM speed ratio mode [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio mode.

[Auto] DRAM speed is set to the optimized settings.

[100:133] The CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio is set to 100:133.

[100:100] The CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio is set to 100:100.

Memory Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to set the memory operating frequency. The conguration options vary with the

BCLK/PCIE Frequency item settings.

CPU Graphics Max. Ratio [Auto]

[Auto] Allows you to automatically optimize the CPU Graphics Ratio depending on

the system loading.

[Manual] Allows you to set a value for an optimal CPU Grapics Ratio. Use the <+> or

<-> keys to adjust the CPU graphics ratio. The minimum value depends on
the installed CPU.

Chapter 3

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

3-11

OC Tuner [As Is]

OC Tuner automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of CPU and DRAM for
enhancing the system performance and accelerates the iGPU performance to the extreme
according to the integrated graphics loading.

Conguration options: [As Is] [Ratio Only] [BCLK First]

EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]

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

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DRAM Timing Control

The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+> or
<-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and
press the <Enter> key.

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

Primary Timings

DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [63]

DRAM COMMAND Mode [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [3]

Secondary Timings

DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]

Chapter 3

3-12

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [511]

DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [65535]

DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [16]

DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [255]

DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

DRAM CKE Minimum pulse width [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

DRAM CAS# Write Latency [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

RTL IOL control

DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D0) [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]
DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D0) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D0 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D1 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D0 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D0 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D1 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D0 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

Chapter 3

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

3-13

Third Timings

tRDRD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [7]

tRDRD_dr [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tRDRD_dd [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tWRRD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [63]

tWRRD_dr [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tWRRD_dd [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tWRWR [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [7]

tWRWR_dr [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

tWRWR_dd [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]

Dec_WRD

Conguration options: [Auto] [0] – [1]

tRDWR [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

tRDWR_dr [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

Chapter 3

tRDWR_dd [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R0D1) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R1D0 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

DRAM IO-L (CHB_R1D1 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15]

3-14

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

MISC

MRC Fast Boot [Auto]

Allows you to enable, disable or automatically set the MRC fast boot.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Enable] [Disable]

DRAM CLK Period [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [14]

Channel A/B DIMM Control [Enable Bot...]

Conguration options: [Enable Both DIMMS] [Disable DIMM0] [Disable DIMM1]

[Disable Both DIMMS]

Scrambler Setting [Optimized ...]

Allows you to set the optimized scrambler setting for stability.
Conguration options: [Optimized (ASUS] [Default (MRC)]

DIGI+ Power Control

CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Load-line is dened by Intel® VRM specication and affects CPU power voltage. The

CPU working voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line
calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking performance, but increases
the CPU and VRM thermal conditions.

Select from Level 1 to Level 8 to adjust CPU power voltage from 0% to 100%.

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

DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto]

Frequency switching affects the VRM transient response and the thermal component
conditions. Higher frequency gets quicker transient response.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]

DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to [Manual Mode]. The thermal
conditions should be monitored.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage Frequency to [Manual].

CPU Fixed Frequency [300]

This item allows you to set a xed CPU Voltage frequency. Use the <+> or
<-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 300kHz to 500kHz with
a 50kHz interval.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 3

3-15

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Voltage Frequency to [Auto].

VRM Spread Spectrum [Disabled]

Enable the VRM Spread Spectrum to enhance system stability.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Active Frequency Mode [Disabled]

Set this item to [Enabled] to help enhance the power saving condition while
switching frequencies. While a higher frequency makes the VRM transient
response much faster, switching frequencies affect the VRM thermal
components.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU Power Phase Control [Auto]

Allows you to set the power phase control of the CPU.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Standard] [Optimized] [Extreme] [Manual Adjustment]

DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to [Extreme] and [Manual
Adjustment]. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Power Phase Control to [Manual
Adjustment].

Manual Adjustment [Fast]

Allows you to set a faster phase response for the CPU to increase system
performance or to slower phase response to decrease DRAM power

efciency.

Conguration options: [Ultra Fast] [Fast] [Medium] [Regular]

CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]

DIGI + VRM Duty Control adjusts the current of every VRM phase and the thermal
conditions of every phase component.
[T. Probe] Select to maintain the VRM thermal balance.
[Extreme] Select to maintain the current VRM balance.

CPU Current Capability [Auto]

DIGI+ VRM CPU Current Capability provides wider total power range for overclocking.

Chapter 3

A higher value setting gets higher VRM power consumption delivery and extends the
overclocking frequency range simultaneously.

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

3-16

DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

Choose a higher value when overclocking, or under a high CPU loading for extra power
support.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

CPU Power Thermal Control [130]

A higher temperature brings a wider CPU power thermal range and extends the
overclocking tolerance to enlarge the O.C. potential. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust
the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.

DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

DRAM Current Capability [100%]

A higher value brings a wider total power range, and extends the overclocking range
simultaneously.

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

DRAM Voltage Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a xed high DRAM

frequency to increase the O.C. range, or a low DRAM frequency for a better system
stability.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]

The following item appears only when you set set the DRAM Frequency Mode item to

[Manual].

DRAM Fixed Frequency Mode [300]

Allows you to set a xed DRAM frequency to increase the overclocking

range or a low DRAM frequency for better system stability. Use the <+> or

<-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 300kHz to 500kHz with
a 50kHz interval.

DRAM Power Phase Control [Auto]

[Auto] Allows you to set the Auto mode.

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

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

CPU Power Management

The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and their features.

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Allows the operating system to dynamically adjust the processor voltage and cores
frequency, resulting to a decreased average power consumption and decreased
average heat production.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

Allows you to enable your core processor’s speed to run faster than the base operating

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

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

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 3

3-17

Turbo Mode Parameters

Long Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Allows you to limit the Turbo Ratio’s time duration that exceeds the TDP
(Thermal Design Power) for maximum performance. Use the <+> or <->
keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1W t0 4096W.

Package Power Time Window [Auto]

Also known as Power Limit 1, and allows you to maintain the time window
for Turbo Ratio over TDP (Thermal Design Power). Use the <+> or <->
keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1 to 127 in seconds.

Short Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Also known as Power Limit 2, and allows you to provide rapid protection
when the package power exceeds the Power Limit 1. Use the <+> or <->
keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1W t0 4096W.

CPU Integrated VR Current Limit [Auto]

Allows you to set a higher current limit to prevent frequency and power
throttling when overclocking. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value.
The values range from 0.125 to 1023.875 with a 0.125 interval.

CPU Internal Power Switching Frequency

Frequency Tuning Mode [Auto]

Allows you to increase or decrease the switching frequency of the internal regulator.
Decrease to help consume less power or increase to help voltage stability. When this
item is set to [+] or [-], the Frequency Tuning Offset appears and allows you to set its

value from 0% to 6%.

CPU Internal Power Fault Control

Thermal Feedback [Auto]

Allows your system to take precautionary actions to be taken by the CPU when the
thermal conditions of the external regulator exceeds the threshold.

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

CPU Integrated VR Fault Management [Auto]

Disable this item to prevent tripping the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator when doing
over-voltage. We recommend you to disable this item when overclocking.

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

Chapter 3

CPU Internal Power Configuration

CPU Integrated VR Efficiency Management [Auto]

Allows you to improve power saving when the processor is in low power state. Disable
to make the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator work in high performance at all times.

Conguration options: [Auto] [High Performance] [Balanced]

3-18

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Power Decay Mode [Auto]

Allows your system to improve the power saving mode on the Fully Integrated Voltage
Regulator as the processor goes into low current state.

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

Idle Power-in Response [Auto]

Allows you to set the slew rate for the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator as it enters
manual override mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Fast]

Idle Power-out Response [Auto]

Allows you to set the slew rate for the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator as it exits
manual override mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Fast]

Power Current Slope [Auto]

Allows you to set the gradient of the high-speed active phase current balance during
load transients to eliminate current imbalance that can result from a load current
oscillating near the switching frequency.

Conguration options: [Auto] [LEVEL -4] - [LEVEL 4]

Power Current Offset [Auto]

Allows you to increase or decrease the output current sensed by the CPU. It nds the

balance between optimal regulating while staying below the current threshold.

Conguration options: [Auto] [100%] [87.5%] [75.0%] [62.5%] [50.0%] [37.5%] [25.0%]
[12.5%] [0%] [-12.5%] [-25.0%] [-37.5%] [-50.0%] [-62.5%] [-75.0%] [-87.5%] [-100%]

Power Fast Ramp Response [Auto]

Allows you to increase to enhance the response of the voltage regulator during the
load transient.

Conguration options: [Auto] [0.00] - [1.50]

CPU Internal Power Saving Control

Power Saving Level 1 Threshold [Auto]

Lower value provides sufcient overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking

potential. Higher value provides better power-saving condition.Use <+> or <-> key to
adjust the value. The values range from 0A to 80A at 1Amp increment.

Power Saving Level 2 Threshold [Auto]

Lower value provides sufcient overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking

potential. Higher value provides better power-saving condition.Use <+> or <-> key to
adjust the value. The values range from 0A to 50A at 1Amp increment.

Power Saving Level 3 Threshold [Auto]

Lower value provides sufcient overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking

potential. Higher value provides better power-saving condition.Use <+> or <-> key to
adjust the value. The values range from 0A to 30A at 1Amp increment.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 3

3-19

Extreme OV [Disabled]

Disable this item to help protect the CPU from being burned by Over Voltage. When you
enable this item, you can choose a high level voltage to overclock, but will not guarantee the
CPU life.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

CPU Core Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to congure the voltage amount for the processor’s cores. Increase the voltage

when setting a high Core Frequency value.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode]

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Manual].

CPU Core Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU Core Voltage override. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the
value, The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Offset Mode].

Offset Mode Sign [+]

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

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

CPU Core Voltage Offset

Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V
to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU Cache Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the uncore of the processor including its

cache. Increase the voltage when increasing Ring frequency.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode]

CPU Cache Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU Cache Voltage override. By default, this item takes the
standard value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the
value. The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

Chapter 3

Offset Mode Sign [+]

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

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

3-20

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Cache Voltage to [Manual Mode].

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Cache Voltage to [Offset Mode].

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

CPU Cache Voltage Offset

Allows you to set the CPU cache voltage offset. By default, this item takes the standard
value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The
values range from 0.001V to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to congure the voltage amount for the integrated graphics processing unit

(iGPU). Increase the voltage when setting a high iGPU frequency value.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode] [Adaptive Mode]

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Manual].

CPU Graphics Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU Graphics Voltage override. By default, this item takes the
standard value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the
value. The values range from 0.001V to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Offset Mode].

Offset Mode Sign [+]

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

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

CPU Graphics Voltage Offset

By default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. You can
use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V
to 0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Adaptive

Mode].

Additional Turbo Mode CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to increase the voltage for Turbo Mode CPU Graphics.
By default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. You can
use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V
to 1.920V with a 0.001V interval.

Total Adaptive Mode CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

This item sums up the voltages of the CPU Graphics Voltage offset and
Additional Turbo Mode CPU Graphics Voltage options.

CPU System Agent Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+]

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

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

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z87

Chapter 3

3-21

CPU System Agent Voltage Offset [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the system agent of the processor

including its PCIe controller and power control unit. Increase the voltage when
increasing DRAM frequency.
You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to

0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU Analog I/O Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+]

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

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

CPU Analog I/O Voltage Offset [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the analog portion of the I/O on

the processor. By default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU.
Increase the amount of voltage when increasing DRAM frequency.
You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to

0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU Digital I/O Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+]

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

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

CPU Digital I/O Voltage Offset [Auto]

Allows you to congure the amount of voltage fed to the digital portion of the I/O on the

processor. By default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. Increase
the amount of voltage when increasing DRAM frequency.
You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to

0.999V with a 0.001V interval.

SVID Support [Auto]

When overclocking, set this item to [Enabled]. Disabling this item would stop the processor
from communicating with the external voltage regulator.

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

SVID Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the SVID Voltage override. By default, this item takes the standard
value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The

Chapter 3

3-22

values range from 0.001V to 2.440V with a 0.001V interval.

CPU Input Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set an input voltage for the processor by the external voltage regulator. By
default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <->
keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800V to 2.700V with a 0.010V interval.

The following item appears only when you set SVID Support to [Enabled].

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

DRAM Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value.
The values range from 1.20V to 1.92V with a 0.005V interval.

According to Intel® CPU specications, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may
damage the CPU permanently. We recommend that you install the DIMMs with the voltage
requirement below 1.65V.

PCH VLX Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the I/O voltage on the PCH (Platform Controller Hub). You can use the <+>
or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1.2000V to 2.0000V with a 0.0125V
interval.

PCH Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the Core voltage for the PCH (Platform Controller Hub). You can use the
<+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.70V to the DRAM Voltage’s
maximum value with a 0.0125V interval.

• The values of the CPU PLL Voltage, CPU Manual Voltage, CPU Offset Voltage,
iGPU Manual Voltage, iGPU Offset Voltage, DRAM Voltage, VCCSA Voltage, VCCIO
Voltage, and PCH Voltage items are labeled in different color, indicating the risk levels
of high voltage settings.

• The system may need better cooling system for a more stable performance under high
voltage settings.

VTTDDR Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the termination voltage for the system memory. You can use the <+> or <->
keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.6000V to 1.0000V with a 0.0125V interval.

DRAM CTRL REF Voltage [Auto]

This item is the DRAM reference voltage for the control lines from the memory bus. You can
use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a

0.0050x interval.

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/CHB [Auto]

This item is the DRAM reference voltage for the data lines on Channels A and B. You can
use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a

0.005x interval.

Clock Crossing VBoot [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing voltage boot when the rising edge of
the BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to
adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.00625V interval.

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Clock Crossing Reset Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing reset voltage when the rising edge of
the BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to
adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.00625V interval.

Clock Crossing Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing voltage when the rising edge of the
BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to
adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.00625V interval.

CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]

[Auto] Automatic conguration.

[Disabled] Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.

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

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.6 Advanced menu

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

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

can cause the system to malfunction.

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3.6.1 CPU Conguration

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

The items in this menu may vary based on the CPU installed.

Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]

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

[Disabled] Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.

Active Processor Cores [All]

Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to be enabled in each processor package.

Conguration options: [All] [1] [2] [3]

Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]

Chapter 3

When set to [Enabled], this item allows the legacy OS to boot even without support for CPUs
with extended CPUID functions.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]

XD can prevent certain classes of malicious buffer overow attacks when combined with a

supporting OS (SuSE Linux 9.2, RedHat Enterprise 3 Update 3).

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled] a VMM can utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by
Vanderpool Technology.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]

Allows you to enable the Mid Level Cache (L2) streamer prefetcher.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]

Allows you to enable the Mid Level Cache (L2) prefetching of adjacent cache lines.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Boot Performance Mode [Max Non-Tu...]

Allows you to select the performance state that the BIOS will set before OS handoff.

Conguration options: [Max Non-Turbo Performance] [Max Battery] [Turbo Performance]

Dynamic Storage Accelerator [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Dynamic Storage Accelerator for C state conguration.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

CPU Power Management Conguration

This item allows you to manage and congure the CPU’s power.

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Allows your system to adjust the processor’s voltage and cores frequency, resulting in
decreased power consumption and heat production.
[Disabled] The CPU runs at its default speed.

[Enabled] The system controls the CPU speed.

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

Allows you to automatically set the processor cores to run faster than the base

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

CPU C States

Allows you to enable or disable the CPU C states.

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

The following items appear only when you set the CPU C States to [Enabled].

Enhanced C1 state [Enabled]

Allows your processor to reduce power when the system is in idle mode.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

CPU C3 Report [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to the operating system.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

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CPU C6 Report [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to the operating system.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

C6 Latency [Short]

Allows you to set the duration of C6 latency for C6 state.

Conguration options: [Short] [Long]

CPU C7 Report [CPU C7s]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C7 report to the operating system.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [CPU C7] [CPU C7s]

C7 Latency [Long]

Allows you to set the duration of C7 latency for C7 state.

Conguration options: [Short] [Long]

Package C State Support [Auto]

Allows you to set the a C-state according to the following conguration

options: [Auto] [Enabled] [C0/C1] [C2] [C3] [C6] [CPU C7] [CPU C7s]

3.6.2 PCH Conguration

PCI Express Conguration

Allows you to congure the PCI Express slots.

DMI Link ASPM Control [Auto]

Allows you to control the ASPM (Active State Power Management) on both Northbridge
side and Southbridge side of the DMI Link.

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

ASPM Support [Disabled]

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3-28

Allows you to set the ASPM level.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [L0s] [L1] [L0sL1]

PCIe Speed [Auto]

Allows you to select the PCI Express port speed.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2]

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Intel Rapid Start Technology [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable Intel® Rapid Start Technology.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

The following items appear only when you set the Intel® Rapid Start Technology to

[Enabled].

Entry on S3 RTC Wake [Enabled]

The system automatically wakes up and set to Rapid Start Technology S3 mode.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Entry After [0]

Allows you to set the RTC wake-up timer at S3 entry. The time ranges from
0 minute (immediately) to 120 minutes.

Active Page Threshold Support [Enabled]

The system automatically goes into sleep mode when the partition size is not enough

for the Intel® Rapid Start Technology to work.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Active Memory Threshold [0]

This item supports Intel Rapid Storage Technology when the partition size
is greater than the Active Page Threshold size. When set to zero (0), it will
go to Auto mode and checks if the partition size is enough at S3 entry.

Ensure that the caching partition size is larger than the total memory size.

Hybrid Hard Disk Support [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the hybrid hard disk support.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Intel Smart Connect Technology

ISCT Support [Disabled]

Allow you to enable or disable the Intel® Smart Connect Technology.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

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3.6.3 SATA Conguration

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The
SATA Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA
port.

Scroll down to display the other BIOS items.

SATA Mode Selection [AHCI]

Allows you to set the SATA conguration.

[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.

[IDE] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as

[AHCI] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the

Chapter 3

[RAID] Set to [RAID Mode] when you want to create a RAID conguration from the

Aggressive LPM Support [Auto]

Allows you to enable the PCH to aggressively enter link power state.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

3-30

Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard
storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases
storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to

internally optimize the order of commands.

SATA hard disk drives.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

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

S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When
read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning
messages during the POST.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Hot Plug [Disabled] (SATA6G_1 - SATA6G_6 [Brown])

These items appear only when you set the SATA Mode Selection item to [AHCI] or [RAID],
and allow you to enable/disable SATA Hot Plug Support.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

3.6.4 System Agent Conguration

Allows you to congure the System Agent Conguration parameters.

VT-d [Disabled]

Allows you to enable virtualization technology function on memory control hub.

[Enabled] Enables the function.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

CPU Audio Devices [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable CPU SA Audio devices.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Graphics Conguration

Allows you to select a primary display from iGPU, and PCIe graphical devices.

Primary Display [Auto]

Allows you to select the primary display from iGPU, PCIE and PCI Graphics devices.

Conguration options: [Auto] [iGPU] [PCIE]

iGPU Memory [Auto]

Allows you to select the amount of system memory allocated to DVMT 5.0
by the iGPU.

Conguration options: [Auto] [32M] [64M] [96M] [128M] [160M] [192M]

[224M] [256M] [288M] [320M] [352M] [384M] [416M] [448M] [480M] [512M]
[1024M]

Chapter 3

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iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled]

Allows you to enable both integrated and discrete graphics for multi-monitor output.

The iGPU shared system memory size will be xed at 64MB.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DMI Conguration

Allows you to control various DMI (Desktop Management Interface) functions.

DMI Gen 2 [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable DMI Gen 2.

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

NB PCIe Conguration

Allows you to congure the NB PCI Express settings.

PCIEx16_1/2 Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to congure the PCIEx16 speed for slots 1 and 2.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]

DMI Link ASPM Control [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable the control of Active State Power Management on SA
side of the DMI Link.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [L0s] [L1] [L0sL1]

PEG - ASPM [Disabled]

Allows you to control ASPM support for the PEG device.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [ASPM L0s] [ASPM L1] [ASPM L0sL1]

Memory Conguration

Allows you to congure the memory conguration parameters.

Memory Scrambler [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Memory Scrambler support.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Memory Remap [Enabled]

Allows you to enable remapping the memory above 4GB.

Chapter 3

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Render Standby [Auto]

Allows you to enable the Intel® Graphics Render Standby support to reduce
iGPU power use when the system is idle.

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

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.6.5 USB Conguration

The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.

The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the
item shows None.

Legacy USB Support [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).

[Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program. It cannot

[Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If

Intel xHCI Mode [Smart Auto]

[Auto] Keeps the last operation of xHCI controller in OS during bootup.

[Smart Auto] Enables the operation of xHCI controller.

[Enabled] Enables the xHCI controller.

[Disabled] Disables the xHCI controller.

EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off

[Disabled] Disables the EHCI Hand-off support.

USB Single Port Control

Allows you to enable or disable the individual USB port.

be recognized in boot devices list.

detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is
detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.

feature.

Refer to section 1.2.2 Motherboard layout for the location of the USB ports.

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3.6.6 Platform Misc Conguration

The items in this menu allow you to congure the platform-related features.

PCI Express Native Power Management [Disabled]

Allows you to enhance the power saving feature of PCI Express and perform ASPM
operations in the operating system.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following item appears only when you set the PCI Express Native Power Management
to [Enabled].

Native ASPM [Disabled]

[Enabled] Vista controls the ASPM support for the device.

[Disabled] BIOS controls the ASPM support for the device.

Chapter 3

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup