Asus X299-A User Manual

PRIME X299-A Series

Motherboard

E12782

First Edition

June 2017

Copyright© 2017 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, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

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Where the applicable license entitles you to the source code of such software and/or other additional data, you may obtain it for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product, either

(1)for free by downloading it from https://www.asus.com/support/

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ii

Contents

Safety information......................................................................................................	vi
About this guide.........................................................................................................	vii
PRIME X299-A specifications summary...................................................................	ix
Package contents......................................................................................................	xv
Installation tools and components..........................................................................	xvi

Chapter 1:		Product Introduction
1.1	Motherboard overview...............................................................................		1-1
	1.1.1	Before you proceed.....................................................................	1-1
	1.1.2	Motherboard layout......................................................................	1-2
	1.1.3	Central Processing Unit (CPU)....................................................	1-4
	1.1.4	System memory...........................................................................	1-5
	1.1.5	Expansion slots............................................................................	1-7
	1.1.6	Onboard buttons and switches....................................................	1-9
	1.1.7	Jumpers and holes....................................................................	1-11
	1.1.8	Onboard LEDs...........................................................................	1-13
	1.1.9	Internal connectors....................................................................	1-17

Chapter 2:		Basic Installation
2.1	Building your PC system...........................................................................		2-1
	2.1.1	Motherboard installation..............................................................	2-1
	2.1.2	CPU installation...........................................................................	2-3
	2.1.3	CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation................................	2-5
	2.1.4	DIMM installation.........................................................................	2-6
	2.1.5	ATX power connection.................................................................	2-7
	2.1.6	SATA device connection..............................................................	2-8
	2.1.7	Front I/O connector......................................................................	2-9
	2.1.8	Expansion card installation........................................................	2-10
	2.1.9	M.2 installation...........................................................................	2-11
2.2	BIOS update utility....................................................................................		2-12
2.3	Motherboard rear and audio connections..............................................		2-13
	2.3.1	Rear I/O connection...................................................................	2-13
	2.3.2	Audio I/O connections................................................................	2-15
2.4	Starting up for the first time....................................................................		2-17
2.5	Turning off the computer.........................................................................		2-17

iii

Chapter 3:		BIOS Setup
3.1	Knowing BIOS.............................................................................................		3-1
3.2	BIOS setup program...................................................................................		3-2
	3.2.1	EZ Mode......................................................................................	3-3
	3.2.2	Advanced Mode...........................................................................	3-4
	3.2.3	QFan Control...............................................................................	3-7
	3.2.4	EZ Tuning Wizard........................................................................	3-9
3.3	My Favorites..............................................................................................		3-12
3.4	Main menu.................................................................................................		3-14
3.5	Ai Tweaker menu......................................................................................		3-14
3.6	Advanced menu........................................................................................		3-16
	3.6.1	CPU Configuration.....................................................................	3-16
	3.6.2	Platform Misc Configuration.......................................................	3-16
	3.6.3	System Agent (SA) Configuration..............................................	3-16
	3.6.4	PCH Configuration.....................................................................	3-17
	3.6.5	PCH Storage Configuration.......................................................	3-17
	3.6.6	CPU Storage Configuration.......................................................	3-18
	3.6.7	Onboard Devices Configuration.................................................	3-18
	3.6.8	APM Configuration.....................................................................	3-19
	3.6.9	Network Stack Configuration.....................................................	3-19
	3.6.10	HDD/SSD SMART Information..................................................	3-19
	3.6.11	USB Configuration.....................................................................	3-19
	3.6.12	Thunderbolt(TM) Configuration..................................................	3-19
	3.6.13	PCH-FW Configuration..............................................................	3-20
3.7	Monitor menu............................................................................................		3-20
3.8	Boot menu.................................................................................................		3-20
3.9	Tool menu..................................................................................................		3-22
	3.9.1	ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility.............................................................	3-22
	3.9.2	Secure Erase.............................................................................	3-23
	3.9.3	ASUS Overclocking Profile........................................................	3-24
	3.9.4	ASUS SPD Information..............................................................	3-24
	3.9.5	Graphics Card Information.........................................................	3-24
3.10	Exit menu...................................................................................................		3-25
3.11	Updating BIOS..........................................................................................		3-26
	3.11.1	EZ Update..................................................................................	3-26
	3.11.2	ASUS EZ Flash 3.......................................................................	3-27
	3.11.3	ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3..........................................................	3-29

iv

Chapter 4:		RAID Support
4.1	RAID configurations...................................................................................		4-1
	4.1.1	RAID definitions...........................................................................	4-1
	4.1.2	Installing storage devices............................................................	4-2
	4.1.3	Intel® Rapid Storage Technology in UEFI BIOS..........................	4-2
	4.1.4	Intel® Virtual Raid on CPU in UEFI BIOS.....................................	4-6
	4.1.5	Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility.................	4-12
4.2	Creating a RAID driver disk.....................................................................		4-16
	4.2.1	Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows® .................................	4-16
Appendix
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 fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified 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 qualified service technician or your retailer.

vi

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

1.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.

2.Chapter 2: Basic Installation

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

3.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.

4.Chapter 4: RAID Support

This chapter describes the RAID configurations.

Where to find more information

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

1.ASUS website

The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products.

2.Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, 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	Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key>	Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
	means that you must press the enclosed key.
	Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
	Return key.
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3>	If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
	names are linked with a plus sign (+).

viii

PRIME X299-A specifications summary

		Intel® Core™ X-Series Processors Family on LGA 2066 Socket*
		Supports 14nm CPU
	CPU	Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0**
		* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel® CPU support list.
		** Support of these features depends on the CPU types.
	Chipset	Intel® X299 Chipset
		Intel® Core™ X-Series Processors (6-core or above)
		- 8 x DIMM, max. 128GB DDR4 4000(O.C.)* / 3600(O.C.)* / 3400(O.C.)* /
		3333(O.C.)* / 3300(O.C.)* / 3200(O.C.)* / 3000(O.C.)* / 2800(O.C.)* /
		2666 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory
		- Quad channel memory architecture
		Intel® Core™ X-Series Processors (4-core)
	Memory	- 4 x DIMM, max. 64GB, DDR4 4000(O.C.)* / 3600(O.C.)* / 3400(O.C.)* /
		3333(O.C.)* / 3300(O.C.)* /3200(O.C.)*/ 3000(O.C.)* / 2800(O.C.)* /
		2666 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory
		- Dual channel memory architecture
		Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)
		* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs.
		Please refer to Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors List) for details.
		44-Lane CPU
		3 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots (single@x16, dual@x16/x16, triple@x16/x16/x8 mode)
		2 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x4 slots (PCIEx4_1 max. at x1 mode, PCIEx4_2 max. at x4
		mode, compatible with PCIe x1 and x4 devices)*
		1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x1 slot (compatible with PCIe x1 devices)**
		28-Lane CPU
		3 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots (single@x16, dual@x16/x8 mode)
		2 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x4 slots (PCIEx4_1 max. at x1 mode, PCIEx4_2 max. at x4
	Expansion slots	mode, compatible with PCIe x1 and x4 devices)*
		1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x1 slot (compatible with PCIe x1 devices)**
		16-Lane CPU
		3 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots (single@x16, dual@x8/x8 mode)
		2 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x4 slots (PCIEx4_1 max. at x1 mode, PCIEx4_2 max. at x4
		mode, compatible with PCIe x1 and x4 devices)*
		1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x1 slot (compatible with PCIe x1 devices)**
		* PCIEx4_1 shares bandwidth with PCIEx16_3 when using 28-lane & 16-lane CPUs.
		PCIEx4_2 shares bandwidth with SATA6G_5/6/7/8 ports. It is disabled by default.
		** PCIEx1_1 shares bandwidth with USB 3.1 Gen 2 front panel connector. It is
		disabled by default.
		Supports NVIDIA® Supports NVIDIA® 2-Way/Quad-GPU SLI™ Technology
	Multi-GPU	(with 2 PCIex16 graphics card)/ 3-Way SLI™ Technology*
		Supports AMD® 3-Way/Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
	support
		* Support depends on the CPU types and VGA cards.
		(continued on the next page)

ix

PRIME X299-A specifications summary

		Intel® X299 Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 and Intel Rapid Storage
		Technology 15 support
		- 1 x M.2_1 Socket 3 with M key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices
		support (both SATA & PCIE 3.0 x 4 mode)
	Storage	- 1 x M.2_2 Socket 3 with vertical M Key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110
		(Support PCIe storage device only)
		- Ready for Intel® Optane™ Memory
		- 8 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports*
		- Supports Intel® Smart Response Technology
		* SATA6G_5/6/7/8 ports share bandwidth with PCIEx4_2.
		Realtek® S1220A 8-channel high definition audio CODEC featuring
		Crystal Sound 3
		- Power pre-regulator reduces power input noise to ensure consistent
		performance
		- Separate layer for left and right track, ensuring both sound deliver equal
		quality
		- Impedance sense for front and rear headphone outputs
		- Audio shielding ensures precise analog/digital separation and greatly
		reduced multi-lateral interference
		- EMI protection cover to prevent electrical noise to affect the amplifier
		quality
		- Internal audio Amplifier to enhance the highest quality sound for
	Audio	headphone and speakers
		- Unique de-pop circuit to reduce start-up popping noise to audio outputs
		- Premium Japan-made audio capacitors provides warm, natural, and
		immersive sound with exceptional clarity and fidelity
		- High quality 120dB SNR stereo playback output (Line-out@back) & 113dB
		SNR input (Line-in) support
		- Supports up to 32-Bit/192kHz playback*
		- DTS® Headphone:X™
		- DTS® Connect
		- Supports jack-detection, multi-streaming, front panel jack-retasking (MIC)
		- Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O
		* Due to limitations in HDA bandwidth, 32-Bit/192kHz is not supported for
		8-Channel audio. 32-Bit/192kHz is only available under Windows® 10.
		(continued on the next page)

x

PRIME X299-A specifications summary

ASUS Exclusive

Features

<Performance>

OC Design: ASUS PRO Clock II Technology

-Full BCLK range for extreme overclocking performance.

5-Way Optimization

-Whole system optimization with a single click! Perfectly consolidates better

CPU performance, power saving, digital power control, system cooling and app usages.

DIGI+ Power Control

-CPU Power: Digital 8-phase power design

-DRAM Power: Digital 2-phase power design

TPU

-Auto Tuning, TPU

EPU

Fan Xpert 4 with FAN Extension Card support Turbo Core App

UEFI BIOS

CrashFree BIOS 3 EZ Flash 3

EZ Tuning Wizard

<Connectivity>

Intel® VROC Ready

Front USB 3.1 Gen 2 Support

Thunderbolt 3 Support- blistering-fast 40Gb/s data transfers upgrades with ThunderboltEX 3 Card.

<Gaming>

AURA SYNC

3D Printing Friendly design Turbo LAN

<EZ Management>

File Transfer

-Cloud GO!

-File Transfer

PC Cleaner

<EZ DIY>

Q-Design

-ASUS Q-Code

-ASUS Q-Connector

-ASUS Q-DIMM

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

-ASUS Q-Shield

-ASUS Q-Slot

(continued on the next page)

xi

PRIME X299-A specifications summary

		Gigabit Intel LAN connection802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE)
		appliance
	LAN	Intel® I219-V Gigabit LANDual interconnect between the integrated Media
		Access Controller (MAC) and physical layer (PHY)
		ASUS LAN Guard
		ASUS Turbo LAN Utility
		1 x BIOS Flashback button
		1 x Optical S/PDIF out
		1 x Intel LAN (RJ45) port
	Back Panel I/O	1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 port (teal blue, Type-A)
	Ports	1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 port (USB Type-C™)
		4 x USB 3.0 Gen 1 ports
		2 x USB 2.0 ports
		8-channel Audio I/O ports

		Special Features:
		ASUS SafeSlot
		- Protect your graphics card Investment
		ASUS 5X Protection III
		- ASUS SafeSlot Core - Fortified PCIe with solid soldering
		- ASUS LANGuard - Protects against LAN surges, lightning strikes and
		static-electricity discharges!
	ASUS Special	- ASUS Overvoltage Protection - World-class circuit-protecting power
	Features	design
		- ASUS DIGI+ VRM - 8+2 Phase digital power design
		- ASUS DRAM Overcurrent Protection: Enhanced DRAM overcurrent
		protection
		- ASUS Stainless-Steel Back I/O: 3X corrosion-resistance for greater
		durability!
		- AI Suite 3
		- Ai Charger
		- MemOK!
	ASUS Quiet	Quiet Thermal Design:
		- ASUS Fan Xpert 4
	Thermal
	Solution	- ASUS Fanless M.2 heatsink Design
		(continued on the next page)

xii

PRIME X299-A specifications summary

		Intel® X299 Chipset
		- 8 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports (4 ports at back panel, 4 ports at mid-board)
		- 4 x USB 2.0 ports (2 ports at back panel, 2 ports at mid-board)
	USB	ASMedia® USB 3.1 Gen 2 controllers
		- 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 front panel connector*
		- 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports@back panel (teal blue, Type A)
		- 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 port@back panel (USB Type C™)
		* The USB 3.1 Gen 2 front panel connector shares bandwidth with PCIEx1_1 slot.
		1 x USB 3.1 Gen2 front panel connector
		2 x USB 3.0 Gen 1 connectors support additional 4 USB ports (19-pin)
		1 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 2 USB ports
		1 x M.2_1 Socket 3 with M key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices
		support (both SATA & PCIE 3.0 x 4 mode)
		1 x M.2_2 Socket 3 with vertical M Key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110
		(Support PCIe storage device only)
		8 x SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors
		1 x 4-Pin W_PUMP+ connector
		1 x 4-Pin AIO_PUMP fan connector
		1 x 4-Pin CPU Fan connector
		1 x 4-Pin CPU_OPT fan connector
		2 x 4-Pin Chassis Fan connectors
		1 x 4-Pin M.2 Fan connector
	Internal I/O	1 x 5-pin EXT_FAN(Extension Fan) connector
	connectors	1 x 2-pin Thermal sensor header
		1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector
		1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
		1 x 4-pin EATX 12V Power connector
		2 x RGB header
		1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
		1 x VROC_HW_KEY
		1 x Thunderbolt header (5-pin) for ASUS ThunderboltEX 3 support
		1 x System Panel connector (Q-Connector)
		1 x 3-pin CPU_OV header
		1 x Q_Code
		1 x MemOK! button
		1 x Clear CMOS header
		1 x Power-on button
		(continued on the next page)

xiii

PRIME X299-A specifications summary

		128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 3.0, ACPI
		6.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 3, CrashFree BIOS 3, F11 EZ
	BIOS Features	Tuning Wizard, F6 Qfan Control, F3 My Favorites, Last Modified log, F12
		PrintScreen, and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory
		information.
	Manageability	WfM 2.0, DMI 3.0, WOL by PME, PXE
		Drivers
	Support DVD	ASUS Utilities
	contents	EZ Update
		Anti-virus software (OEM version)
	Operating	Windows® 10 64-bit
	system support
	Form factor	ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)

• Specifications are subject to change without notice.

• Visit the ASUS website for the software manual.

xiv

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard	ASUS PRIME X299-A motherboard
Cables	4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
	1 x ASUS SLI HB BRIDGE (2-WAY-M)
	1 x Q-Connector
Accessories	1 x M.2 vertical bracket
	1 x M.2 screw package
	1 x ASUS Q-Shield
Application DVD	Motherboard support DVD
Documentation	User manual

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

xv

Installation tools and components

Intel® LGA 2066 CPU

Intel® LGA 2066 compatible CPU Fan

SATA hard disk drive	Phillips (cross) screwdriver
PC chassis

1 bag of screws	DIMM

Power supply unit

SATA optical disc drive (optional)

Graphics card

M.2 SSD module (optional)

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

xvi

Product Introduction

1

1.1Motherboard overview

1.1.1Before 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.

Chapter 1

ASUS PRIME X299-A Series

1-1

1.1.2Motherboard layout

1 Chapter

Refer to 1.1.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

1-2	Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/Slots		Page
1.	DDR4 DIMM slots	1-5
2.	CPU, CPU optional, AIO pump, water pump+, extension, M.2, and chassis	1-21
	fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin AIO_PUMP;
	4-pin W_PUMP+; 4-pin M.2_FAN; 5-pin EXT_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-2)
3.	RGB header (4-pin RGB_HEADER1-2)	1-26
4.	ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V_1; 4-pin	1-22
	EATX12V_2)
5.	LGA2066 CPU socket	1-4
6.	MemOK! button	1-9
7.	M.2 sockets (M.2_1(Socket 3); M.2_2(Socket 3))	1-24
8.	USB 3.1 Gen 2 front panel connector (U31G2_E3)	1-18
9.	3D Mount	1-12
10.	USB 3.1 Gen 1 connectors (20-1 pin U31G1_12; U31G1_34)	1-19
11.	Thermal sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR)	1-25
12.	Intel® Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_12; SATA 6G_34;	1-17
	SATA 6G_65; SATA 6G_87)
13.	VROC_HW_KEY connector (4-pin VROC_KEY)	1-25
14.	Clear RTC RAM jumper (2-pin CLRTC)	1-11
15.	Thunderbolt header (5-pin TB_HEADER)	1-20
16.	System panel connector (20-3 pin PANEL)	1-23
17.	CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV)	1-12
18.	USB 2.0 connector (10-1 pin USB910)	1-20
19.	Power-on button	1-10
20.	Q-Code LEDs	1-13
21.	Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM)	1-27
22.	Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)	1-18

Chapter 1

ASUS PRIME X299-A Series

1-3

1.1.3Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA2066 socket designed for the Intel® Core™ X-series Processors.

1 Chapter

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

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

•Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA2066 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.

1-4	Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.1.4System memory

The motherboard comes with eight DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots.

A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot.

Recommended memory configurations

Intel® Core™ X-series Processors (6-core or above)

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Intel® Core™ X-series Processors (4-core)

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Memory configurations

You may install 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB and 16 GB unbuffered and non ECC DDR4 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.

•For Intel® Core™ X-Series Processors (4-core), you may install varying memory sizes in Channel C and Channel D. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.

•For Intel® Core™ X-Series Processors (6-core or above), you may install varying memory sizes in Channel A, Channel B, Channel C, and Channel D. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the quad-channel configuration.

Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.

•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.

•For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full memory load (8 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

•Always install the DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For an optimum compatibility, we recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code (D/C) from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory modules.

•Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.

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1.1.5Expansion slots

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

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Slot No. Slot Description

1PCIE 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot

2PCIE 3.0/2.0 x1_1 slot

3PCIE 3.0/2.0 x4_1 slot

4PCIE 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot

5PCIE 3.0/2.0 x4_2 slot

6PCIE 3.0/2.0 x16_3 slot

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44-Lane CPUs

	PCI Express 3.0 operating mode
VGA / PCIe	Single VGA /	Dual VGA /		Triple VGA /
configuration	PCIe card	PCIe cards		PCIe cards
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1	x16 (single VGA	x16		x16
	recommended)
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2	N/A	x16		x16
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_3	N/A	N/A		x8
28-Lane CPUs
	PCI Express 3.0 operating mode
VGA / PCIe	Single VGA /	Dual VGA /
configuration	PCIe card	PCIe cards
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1	x16 (single VGA	x16
	recommended)
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2	N/A	x8
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_3	N/A	N/A
16-Lane CPUs
	PCI Express 3.0 operating mode
VGA / PCIe	Single VGA /	Dual VGA /
configuration	PCIe card	PCIe cards
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1	x16 (single VGA	x8
	recommended)
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2	N/A	x8
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_3	N/A	N/A

•We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode.

•The PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot is not recommended for VGA cards or PCIe cards running at x8 mode or above.

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1.1.6Onboard buttons and switches

Onboard buttons and switches allow you to fine-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

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Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system boot

failure. If the system fails to boot during POST stage and the DRAM_LED near the

MemOK! button lights continuously, press the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED

starts blinking. System will begin automatic memory compatibility tuning and reboot for

successful boot.

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•

•

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•

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•

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Refer to section 1.1.8 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® OS environment.

During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test fails, the system reboots and tests 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 (Qualified Vendors Lists) 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 www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.

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	2.	Power-on button
		The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake
		up the system. The button also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source
	1Chapter	indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
		removing or installing any motherboard component.

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1.1.7Jumpers and holes

	1. Clear RTC RAM jumper (2-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	1
	CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in
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	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.Short-circuit pin 1-2 with a metal object or jumper cap for about 5-10 seconds.

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.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never place a metal object or jumper cap on the

CLRTC jumper. Placing a metal object or jumper cap will cause system boot failure!

•If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and place a metal object or jumper cap 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 turn on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before rebooting the system.

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2.	CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV)
	The CPU Over Voltage jumper allows you to set a higher CPU voltage for a flexible
	overclocking system, depending on the type of the installed CPU. To gain more CPU
	voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 2-3. To go back to its default CPU voltage
1 Chapter	setting, insert the jumper to pins 1-2.

3.3D Mount

Secure 3D printed parts to these 3D Mount holes for a personalized motherboard.

Download 3D source files at http://www.asus.com.

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1.1.8Onboard 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 drives. If an	1
	error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit up until the problem is solved.
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2.Q-Code LEDs

The Q-Code LED design provides you with a 2-digit error code that displays the system status. Refer to the Q-Code table on the next page for details.

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Q-Code table

Code		Description
00		Not used
02		microcode
03		CACHE_ENABLED
04		PCH initialization
06		CPU_EARLY_INIT
10		PEI Core is started
11	– 14	Pre-memory CPU initialization is started
15	– 18	Pre-memory System Agent initialization is started
19	– 1C	Pre-memory PCH initialization is started
2B – 2F		Memory initialization

30Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)

31Memory Installed

32– 36 CPU post-memory initialization

37	– 3A	Post-Memory System Agent initialization is started
3B – 3E		Post-Memory PCH initialization is started
4F		DXE IPL is started
50	– 53	Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory
		speed
4F		DXE IPL is started

54Unspecified memory initialization error

55Memory not installed

56Invalid CPU type or Speed

57CPU mismatch

58CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error

59CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed

5A	Internal CPU error
5B	Reset PPI is not available
5C – 5F	Reserved for future AMI error codes
E0	S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is called by the DXE IPL)
E1	S3 Boot Script execution
E2	Video repost
E3	OS S3 wake vector call
E4 – E7	Reserved for future AMI progress codes
E8	S3 Resume Failed
E9	S3 Resume PPI not Found
EA	S3 Resume Boot Script Error
EB	S3 OS Wake Error
EC – EF	Reserved for future AMI error codes
F0	Recovery condition triggered by firmware (Auto recovery)
F1	Recovery condition triggered by user (Forced recovery)
F2	Recovery process started
F3	Recovery firmware image is found
F4	Recovery firmware image is loaded
F5 – F7	Reserved for future AMI progress codes
F8	Recovery PPI is not available
F9	Recovery capsule is not found

(continued on the next page)

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