Asus Z87I-PRO User Manual

Motherboard

Z87I-PRO

E8703 Third Edition

Sept. 2013

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

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modied or altered, unless such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the

product is defaced or missing. ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS

OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or

copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identication or explanation and to the owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software

This product contains copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (“GPL”), under the Lesser General Public License Version (“LGPL”) and/or other Free Open Source Software Licenses. Such software in this product is distributed without any warranty to the extent permitted by the applicable law. Copies of these licenses are included in this product.

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 http://support.asus.com/download or (2) for the cost of reproduction and shipment, which is dependent on the preferred carrier and the location

where you want to have it shipped to, by sending a request to:

ASUSTeK Computer Inc. Legal Compliance Dept. 15 Li Te Rd., Beitou, Taipei 112 Taiwan

In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we can coordinate the terms and cost of shipment with you.

The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY and licensed under the same license as the corresponding binary/object code.

This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information. ASUSTeK is eager to duly provide complete source code as required under various Free Open Source

Software licenses. If however you encounter any problems in obtaining the full corresponding source code we would be much obliged if you give us a notication to the email address gpl@asus.com, stating the product and describing the problem (please DO NOT send large attachments such as source code archives, etc. to this email address).

iii

Contents

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

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

Z87I-PRO 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

1.1.2 ASUS Exclusive Features ...........................................................

1-2

1.1.3 ASUS EZ DIY ..............................................................................

1-4

1.1.4 Other special features .................................................................

1-4

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

1-6

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

1-6

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

1-7

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

1-8

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

1-9

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

1-20

1.2.6 Onboard button .........................................................................

1-21

1.2.7 POST State LEDs .....................................................................

1-22

1.2.8 Internal connectors

.................................................................... 1-22

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 ...............................

2-4

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 Connectors

................................................................... 2-9

2.1.8 Expansion Card installation

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

2.1.9 Wi-Fi antenna 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 rst time ....................................................................

2-17

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

2-18

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

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

3-6

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

3-7

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

3-9

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

3-25

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

3-25

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

3-28

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

3-29

3.6.4 System Agent Conguration

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

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

3-33

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

3-34

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

3-35

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

3-37

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

3-38

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

3-39

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

3-42

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

3-48

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

3-48

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

3-48

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

3-49

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

3-50

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

3-51

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

3-52

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

3-53

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

3-54

Chapter 4: Software support

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

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

4-1

4.2.1 Running the support DVD ...........................................................

4-1

4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals

.................................................. 4-2

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

4-3

4.3.1 AI Suite 3

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

4.3.2 USB 3.0 Boost

............................................................................. 4-5

4.3.3 USB BIOS Flashback Wizard......................................................4-6

4.3.4 Ai Charger+ .................................................................................

4-8

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

4-9

4.3.6 Network iControl

........................................................................ 4-10

4.3.7 USB Charger+ ...........................................................................

4-11

4.3.8 System Information ...................................................................

4-12

4.3.9 Audio congurations

.................................................................. 4-13

Chapter 5: RAID support

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

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

5-1

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

5-2

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

5-2

5.1.4 Intel

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

5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk

....................................................................... 5-7

5.2.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS ..................

5-7

5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows

.................................... 5-8

5.2.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows

OS installation ........ 5-8

Appendices

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

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

Safety information

Electrical safety

To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet

before relocating the system.

When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged.

Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.

Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company.

If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service

technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package.

Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.

To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.

Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may become wet.

Place the product on a stable surface.

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

technician or your retailer.

•

vii

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the

motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. 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.

viii

Conventions used in this guide

To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task

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

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

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

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 (+).

Z87I-PRO 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 2 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR3 3000 (O.C.)* / 2933 (O.C.)* / 2800

(O.C.)* / 2666 (O.C.)* / 2600 (O.C.)* / 2500 (O.C.)* / 2400 (O.C.)* / 2200 (O.C.)* / 2133 (O.C.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 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 1 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot

VGA

Integrated Graphics Processor - Intel® HD Graphics support

Multi-VGA output support: DisplayPort//HDMI/DVI-I port

Supports DisplayPort 1.2* with max. resolution of 4096 x 2160

@24Hz / 3840 x 2160 @60Hz

Supports HDMI with max. resolution of 4096 x 2160 @24Hz /

2560 x 1600 @60Hz

Supports DVI-I with max. resolution of 1920 x 1200 @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

* DisplayPort 1.2 Multi-Stream Transport compliant; supports

DisplayPort 1.2 monitor daisy-chain up to 3 displays

LAN Intel® I217-V Gigabit LAN - Dual interconnect between the

integrated LAN controller and physical layer (PHY)

802.3az Energy Efcient Ethernet (EEE) appliance

Wireless Data Network Speedy Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n supports dual frequency band 2.4/5

GHz

ASUS Wi-Fi GO! Utility

(continued on the next page)

Bluetooth Bluetooth v4.0

Bluetooth v3.0 + HS

Storage

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 and Intel® Rapid Storage Technology 12 support

- 6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports

- Supports Intel

Smart Response Technology, Intel® Rapid Start

Technology, Intel® Smart Connect Technology*

* These functions will work depending on the CPU installed.

Audio

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

- High quality 112dB SNR stereo playback output (Line-out@ back) & 104dB SNR recording input (Line-in) support

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

- BD audio layer content protection

- DTS UltraPC II

- DTS Connect

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

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

USB

Intel® Z87 Express Chipset - supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

- 6 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (2 ports at mid-board, 4 ports at back panel)

- 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (2 ports at mid-board, 4 ports at the back panel)

ASMedia® USB 3.0 Controller - supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at the back panel

ASUS unique features

ASUS DIGI+VRM

- ASUS Digital Power Control: Digital Power Design for CPU

- Industry leading digital 12+2 Phase Power Design

- ASUS DIGI+ VRM utility

ASUS DRAM Fuse

- Enhanced DRAM overcurrent protection and short circuit

damage prevention

ASUS ESD Guards

- Strong ESD protection for extended component lifespan

ASUS Stainless Steel Back I/O

- 3x More durable corrosion-resistant coating

ASUS Fan Xpert 2

- Featuring Fan Auto Tuning function for optimized speed

control, providing an exclusive tailored fan speed setting for each fan

(continued on the next page)

Z87I-PRO specications summary

ASUS unique features

ASUS Wi-Fi GO!

- Wi-Fi GO! functions include Cloud GO!, DLNA Media Hub, Smart Sensor Control, Remote Desktop, Remote Keyboard & Mouse, File Transfer, Capture & Send

- Wi-Fi Engine for network sharing and connection: Client Mode, AP Mode

ASUS Exclusive Features:

- ASUS EPU

- ASUS Turbo V

- ASUS GPU Boost

- Network iControl featuring instant network bandwidth domination for top network program in use

- USB 3.0 Boost featuring speedy USB 3.0 transmission

- USB Charger+ featuring quick-chargingfunction for all smart devices

- Ai Charger+

- Disk Unlocker

- AI Suite 3

- Anti Surge

- MemOK!

ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS USB BIOS Flashback with USB BIOS Flashback Wizard

for EZ BIOS download sccheduling

- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user interface

- ASUS O.C. Tuner

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS Q-Design

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

- ASUS Q-Cable

- ASUS Q-Shield

- ASUS Q-Slot

ASUS exclusive overclocking features

Precision Tweaker 2

- vCore: Adjustable CPU Core voltage at 0.001V increment

- iGPU: Adjustable CPU Graphics voltage at 0.001V increment

- vCCIO: Adjustable Analog and Digital I/O voltage at 0.001V increment

- vCCIN: Adjustable CPU Input voltage at 0.01V increment

- vCCSA: Adjustable CPU System Agent voltage at 0.001V increment

- vDRAM Bus: 124-step Memory voltage control

- vPCH: 154-step Chipset voltage control

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)

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

0.1MHz increment

Overclocking Protection

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

(continued on the next page)

Z87I-PRO specications summary

xii

Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x DVI-I

1 x DisplayPort

1 x HDMI port

2 x ASUS Wi-Fi GO! SMA antenna ports (2T2R) (Wi-Fi 802.11

a/b/g/n and Bluetooth v4.0/3.0+HS)

1 x USB BIOS Flashback button

1 x Clear CMOS button

1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port

1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

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

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

6-channel Audio I/O ports

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

1 x USB 2.0/1.1 connector supports additional 2 USB ports

6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors

1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector

1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector

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

4-pin (PWM mode) CPU coolers control

3 x 4-pin Chassis Fan connectors

1 x System Panel (with Q-Cable)

1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)

1 x S/PDIF out header

1 x speaker header

1 x MemOK! Button

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

BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a, 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

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

Support DVD contents Drivers

ASUS Utilities

ASUS Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

Form factor mini ITX form factor: 6.7 in. x 6.7 in. (17 cm x 17 cm)

Z87I-PRO specications summary

Specications are subject to change without notice.

xiii

• 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.

PRO

I 7 8 Z

User Manual

ASUS Z87I-PRO motherboard User manual Support DVD

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

1 x 2T2R dual-band Wi-Fi moving antenna (Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n

compliant)

1 x ASUS Q-Cable

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items

xiv

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

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

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

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-1

Chapter 1

Product introduction

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 4th generation Intel

Core™

i7/Intel® Core™ i5/Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium® and Celeron® processors in the LGA1150

package. 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

integrated graphics

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 3000 (O.C.) / 2933 (O.C.) / 2800 (O.C.) / 2666 (O.C.) / 2600 (O.C.) / 2500 (O.C.) / 2400 (O.C.) / 2200 (O.C.) 2133 (O.C.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz Support

The motherboard supports the dual-channel DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of DDR3 3000 (O.C.) / 2933 (O.C.) / 2800 (O.C.) / 2666 (O.C.) / 2600 (O.C.) / 2500 (O.C.) /

2400 (O.C.) / 2200 (O.C.) 2133 (O.C.) / 2000 (O.C.) / 1866 (O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz to boost the system’s performance, and to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of 3D

graphics, multimedia and Internet applications.

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

Smart Response Technology.

*** The SSD is reserved for caching function.

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

Intel® Smart Connect Technology

Intel® Smart Connect Technology allows your system to receive updates for your web applications in real-time even when your system is in sleep mode. This saves wait time for

applications to update and sync with the cloud for 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.

1.1.2 ASUS Exclusive Features

EPU

EPU (Energy Processing Unit), the world’s rst real-time system power-saving chip,

automatically detects the current system load and intelligently moderates power usage.

It offers a total system-wide energy optimization, reduces fan noise and extends the component’s lifespan.

ASUS Fan Xpert 2

ASUS Fan Xpert 2 provides customizable settings for a cooler and quieter computing

environment. With its Fan Auto Tuning feature, ASUS Fan Xpert 2 automatically detects

and tweaks all fan speeds, and provides you with optimized fan settings based on the fans’ specications and positions.

Wi-Fi GO!

ASUS Wi-Fi GO! leads the way to a more enjoyable home entertainment. With ASUS Wi-Fi

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 Wi-Fi 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.

Remote Keyboard & Mouse: Allows you to use your smart device’s touch panel as a

remote keyboard and mouse for your computer.

Smart Sensor Control: Allows you to remotely control your computer using your smart

device’s customized gestures.

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

Capture & Send: Allows you to take screenshots and send them to a smart device.

GPU Boost

GPU Boost accelerates the integrated GPU for extreme graphics performance, facilitates

exible frequency adjustments, and easily delivers stable system-level upgrades for every

use.

•

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-3

Chapter 1

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 overclocking, energy management, fan speed control, voltage and sensor readings, and even interact with smart devices via Wi-Fi. This all-in-one software offers diverse and ease to use functions, with no need to switch back and forth between different utilities.

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 systemís bootup.

ASUS Anti-Surge Protection

This special design protects expensive devices and the motherboard from damage caused by power surges from switching power supply unit (PSU).

Ai Charger+

ASUS Ai Charger+, the latest Ai Charger* version, brings you to a new level of USB3.0 fast charging experience. With its easy and user-friendly interface, you can easily charge iPod, iPhone, iPad, but also BC 1.1** standard mobile devices three times*** as fast as before.

* Ai Charger is ASUS unique fast-charging software that supports iPod, iPhone and

iPad.

** Check your USB mobile device manufacturer if it fully supports the BC 1.1 function.

*** The actual charging speed may vary with your USB device’s conditions.

1-4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

Disk Unlocker

ASUS Disk Unlocker, an ASUS-exclusive utility, provides an intuitive interface that identies

all of your hard disk drive (HDD) spaces and allows you to use all of these spaces, breaking

the HDD size limitation of various operating systems.

1.1.3 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 Favorite function allows you to quickly access the frequently used items

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

• New log reminder 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-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-cable

ASUS Q-cable is a unique extension cable that allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cable in a small chassis, making the connection quick and accurate.

1.1.4 Other special features

DisplayPort Support

DisplayPort is a digital display interface standard, providing billions of colors and bidirectional 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.

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-5

Chapter 1

DTS Connect

To get the most out of your audio entertainment across all formats and quality levels, DTS Connect combines two enabling technologies, DTS Neo:PC™ upmixes stereo sources (CDs, MP3s, WMAs, internet radio) into as many as 7.1 channels of incredible surround sound. Consumers can connect their PC to a home theater system. DTS Interactive is capable of performing mult-channel encoding of DTS bitstreams on personal computers, and sending encoded bitstreams out of a digital audio connection (such as S/PDIF or HDMI) designed to deliver audio to an external decoder.

DTS UltraPC II

DTS UltraPC II delivers a superior surround sound experience through your system’s

speakers and headphones while monitoring and balancing the loudness level difference between digital audio formats. It also ehnances the audio settings through augmenting low and high frequencies of musical tones, restores compressed or re-mastered sounds, improves bass performance even without a subwoofer, and improves dialogues derived from DVD or Blu-ray Disc™.

ErP Ready

The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires products to meet certain energy efciency requirement in regards to energy consumptions. This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efcient products

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

1-6

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

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 Z87I-PRO

1-7

Chapter 1

Refer to 1.2.8 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

1.2.2 Motherboard layout

Z87I-PRO

PCIEX16

Z87

F_PANEL

AAFP

EATXPWR

CHA_FAN1

CHA_FAN2

CHA_FAN3

CPU_FAN

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

ALC

1150

64Mb BIOS

17cm(6.7in)

AUDIO

SPDIFO

_HDMI

_DP

DVI_I

USB7-10

USB3_56

SPDIF_OUT

SATA6G_5SATA6G_6

SATA6G_3SATA6G_4

SATA6G_1SATA6G_2

SPEAKER

DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

LAN_USB3_12

USB3_34_E12

CON1

CON3

DIGI

+VRM

CON2

INTEL

I217-V

ASM 1042

ASM 1442

Super

I/O

USB910

WLAN

LGA1150

EATX12V

MemOK!

CLR_CMOS

BIOS_FLBK

42 31

11 10

1-8

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

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.

Z87I-PRO

Z87I-PRO CPU socket LGA1150

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page

1. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3)

1-26

2. MemOK! button

1-21

3. LGA1150 CPU socket

1-8

4. DDR3 DIMM slots

1-9

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

1-27

6. Intel

Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6) 1-23

7. System panel connector (10-1 pin PANEL)

1-28

8. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)

1-24

9. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_56)

1-24

10. USB 2.0 connector (10-1 pin USB910)

1-25

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

1-23

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

1-22

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-9

Chapter 1

Recommended memory congurations

1.2.4 System memory

The motherboard comes with two 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.

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets

DIMM_A1

DIMM_B1

1-10

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

• 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

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

the CPU.

• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.

• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows

OS, when you install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the following:

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

OS.

b) Install a 64-bit Windows

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

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 (2 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.

• 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.

Memory congurations

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

Z87I-PRO Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip Brand

Chip No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

1 2

G.SKILL F3-3000C12Q-16GTXDG

16GB (4x4GB)

DS - - 12-14-14-35 1.65V • •

DDR3 3000 (O.C.) MHz capability

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-11

Chapter 1

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip Brand

Chip No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

1 2

G.SKILL F3-2800C11Q-16GTXD(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.65V • •

DDR3 2800 (O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip Brand

Chip No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

1 2

G.SKILL F3-2666C11Q-16GTXD(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

DS - - 11-13-13-35

11-1313-35

• •

DDR3 2666 (O.C.) MHz capability

DDR3 2400 (O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip Brand

Chip No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

1 2

KINGSTON KHX2250C9D3T1K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x 2GB)

DS - - - 1.65V • •

DDR3 2250 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 2

CORSAIR CMGTX8(XMP) 8GB(4x 2GB) SS - - 10-12-10-27 1.65V • • G.SKILL F3-2400C10D-8GTX(XMP) 8GB(2x4GB) SS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65V • • G.SKILL F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP) 4GB(2x 2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65V • • G.SKILL F3-19200CL 10Q-32GBZHD(XMP) 8GB DS

- -

10-12-12-31 1.65V • • KINGMAX FLLE88F-C8KKAA HAIS(XMP) 2GB SS - - 10-11-10-30 1.8V • • KINGSTON KHX2400C11D3K4/8GX(XMP) 8GB(2x4GB) SS - - - 1.65V • • KINGSTON KHX24C11T2K2/8X(XMP) 4GB DS - - - 1.65V • • ADATA AX3U2400GW8G11 16GB(2x 8GB) DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.65V • • ADATA AX3U2400G4G10-DG2(XMP) 4GB DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65V • • Team TXD38G2400HC10QBK 8GB DS - - 10-12-12-31 1.65V • •

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip

No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 2

GEIL GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP) 2GB DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.65V • •

GEIL GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 4GB DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65V • •

DDR3 2200 MHz capability

DDR3 2933 (O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip

No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support(Optional)

1 2

APACER DK.16GAY.KBSK2 16GB

(2X8GB)

DS N/A N/A N/A 1.65V • •

APACER DK.08GAY.KBSK2 8GB

(2X4GB)

SS N/A N/A N/A 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMY16GX3M4A2933C12R

PK1

16GB (4X4GB)

SS N/A N/A 12-14-

14-36

1.65V • •

G.SKILL F3-2933C12Q-16GTXDG 16GB

(4X4GB)

DS N/A N/A 12-14-

14-35

1.65V • •

G.SKILL F3-2933C12Q-32GTXDG 32GB

(4X8GB)

DS N/A N/A 12-14-

14-35

1.65V • •

1-12

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

DDR3 2133 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip

Brand

Chip

No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 2

G.SKILL F3-17000CL11Q2-

64GBZLD(XMP)

8GB DS - - 11-11-

11-31

1.5V

• •

G.SKILL F3-2133C11

Q-32GZL(XMP)

8GB DS - - 11-11-

11-31

1.5V

• •

GEIL GE34GB2133

C9DC(XMP)

2GB DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65V

• •

GEIL GU34GB2133

C9DC(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65V

• •

KINGSTON KHX2133C11D3K4/

16GX(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

DS - - - 1.65V

• •

KINGSTON KHX2133C11D3

T1K2/16GX(XMP)

16GB (2x8GB)

DS - - - 1.6V

• •

KINGSTON KHX21C11T1BK2/

16X(XMP)

16GB (2x8GB)

DS - - - 1.6V

• •

KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3

T1K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB )

DS - - - 1.65V

• •

KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3

X2K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65V

• •

KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3

T1K4/8GX(XMP)

8GB (4x2GB)

DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65V

• •

KINGSTON KHX21C11T1

BK2/8X(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - - 1.6V

• •

KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3

T1FK4/8GX(XMP)

8GB (4x2GB)

DS - - - 1.65V

• •

KINGSTON KHX21C11

T3K4/32X

8GB DS - - - 1.65V

• •

ADATA AX3U2133

XW8G10

16GB (2x 8GB)

DS - - 10-11-

11-30

1.65V

• •

ADATA AX3U2133XC4

G10-2X(XMP)

4GB DS - - 10-11-

11-30

1.65V

• •

ADATA AX3U2133XW8

G10-2X(XMP)

8GB DS - - 10-11-

11-30

1.65V

• •

Team TXD34096M

2133HC11-L

4GB SS - - - 1.5V

• •

Team TLD38G2133

HC11ABK

8GB DS - - 11-11-

11-31

1.65V

• •

DDR3 2000 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip

No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 2

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

(3x2GB)

- -

9-9-9-27 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMZ4GX3M2A

2000C10(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

- -

10-1010-27

1.50V • •

CORSAIR CMT6GX3M3A

2000C8(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

- -

8-9-8-24 1.65V • •

G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4

GBFLS(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

- -

9-9-9-24 1.65V • •

(continued on the next page)

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-13

Chapter 1

DDR3 2000 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip

No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 2

G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4

GBTD(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

- -

9-9-9-27 1.65V • •

GEIL GUP34GB2000

C9DC(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

- -

9-9-9-28 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3

T1K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

- -

- 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3

W1K3/6GX(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB )

- -

- 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX2000C9AD3

T1K3/6GX(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

- -

- 1.65V • •

DDR3 1866 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip

Brand

Chip

No.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

1 2

CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2

A1866C9(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

- -

9-9-9-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMT6GX3MA

1866C9(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

- -

9-9-9-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A

1866C9(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

- -

9-10-9-27 1.50V • •

CRUCIAL BLE4G3D1869DE1

TXO.16FMD(XMP)

4GB DS

- -

9-9-9-27 1.5V • •

CRUCIAL BLT4G3D1869DT1

TX0.13FKD(XMP)

4GB DS

- -

9-9-9-27 1.5V • •

CRUCIAL BLT4G3D1869DT2

TXOB.16FMR(XMP)

4GB DS

- -

9-9-9-27 1.5V • •

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-16

GBZL(XMP1.3)

16GB (4x4GB)

- -

9-10-9-28 1.5V • •

G.SKILL F3-14900CL10Q2-

64GBZLD(XMP1.3)

64GB (8x8GB)

- -

10-11-10-30 1.5V • •

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9D-8

GBXL(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

- -

9-10-9-28 1.5V • •

G.SKILL F3-14900CL9Q-8

GBXL(XMP)

8GB (4x2GB)

- -

9-9-9-24 1.6V • •

KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3K4/

16GX(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

- -

- 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1866C11

D3P1K2/8G

8GB (2x4GB)

- -

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3

K2/8GX(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

- -

- 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX18C10T3K4/32X 8GB DS - - - 1.5V • •

ADATA AX3U1866XW8G10 16GB

(2x8GB)

- -

10-11-10-30 1.5V • •

Team TLD34G1866H9KBK 4GB DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.5V • •

Team TLD38G1866HC10SBK 8GB DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5V • •

1-14

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip No. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

1 2

APACER 4GB UNB PC3-12

800 CL11

4GB SS APACER AM5D6008

BQQSCK

- - • •

Apacer 78.B1GE3.9L10C 4GB DS Apacer

KZZC

AM5D5908 DEQSCK

- - • •

APACER 8GB UNB PC3-12

800 CL11

8GB DS APACER AM5D6008

BQQSCK

- - • •

CORSAIR CMD12GX3M6

A1600C8(XMP)

12GB (6x2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M4X

1600C10(XMP)

32GB (4x8GB)

DS - - 10-10-

10-27

1.50V • •

CORSAIR CMP4GX3M2A

1600C8(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMP4GX3M2A

1600C9(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMP4GX3M2C

1600C7(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 7-8-7-20 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2

A1600C9(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR TR3X6G1600

C8 G(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR TR3X6G1600

C8D G(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR TR3X6G1600

C9 G(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMP8GX3M2A

1600C9(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A

1600C7R(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - 7-8-7-20 1.50V • •

CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A

1600C9(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • •

CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M1A

1600C10(XMP)

8GB DS - - 10-10-

10-27

1.50V • •

Crucial BL25664BN160

8.16FF(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

DS - - - 1.65V • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4

GBRH(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

SS - - 7-7-7-24 1.6V • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4

GBRM(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6V • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-4

GBRM(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.60V • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4

GBECO(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 XMP 1.35V • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4

GBRL(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-8

GBRH(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6V • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-8

GBECO(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - 8-8-8-24 XMP 1.35V • •

(continued on the next page)

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-15

Chapter 1

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip

Brand

Chip No. Timing Voltage

DIMM

socket

support

(Optional)

1 2

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-8

GBRL(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL10S-8

GBXL(XMP)

8GB DS - - 10-10-

10-30

- • •

GEIL GET316GB1600

C9QC(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.6V • •

HYNIX HMT351U6

CFR8C-PB

4GB DS HYNIX H5TQ2G83

CFR PBC

- - • •

KINGMAX FLGE85F-B8KJ9

A FEIS(XMP)

2GB DS - - - 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9

D3P1K2/4G

4GB (2x2GB)

SS - - - 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3

K3/12GX(XMP)

12GB (3x4GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3

K4/16GX(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB )

DS - - - 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX16C9K2/16 16GB

(2x8GB)

DS - - - 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600

C9AD3/2G

2GB DS - - - 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KVR1600D3

N11/2G-ES

2GB DS KTC D1288JPN

DPLD9U

11-1111-28

1.35V-1.5V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C7D3

K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - - 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3

K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 8 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3T1

K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 8 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3

K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3

LK2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9 XMP 1.35V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X2

K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KVR16N11/4 4GB DS KINGSTON D2568GE

ROPGGBU

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1

K3/6GX(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

DS - - - 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3

K3/6GX(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

DS - - 9 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1B

K3/6GX(XMP)

6GB (3x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9

D3P1K2/8G

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - - 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KHX16C10B1

K2/16X(XMP)

8GB DS - - - 1.5V • •

(continued on the next page)

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

1-16

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip No. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 2

KINGSTON KHX16C9P1

K2/16(XMP)

8GB DS - - - 1.5V • •

MICRON MT8JTF5126

4AZ-1G6E1

4GB SS MICRON D9QBJ - - • •

MICRON MT16JTF1G6

4AZ-1G6E1

8GB DS MICRON D9QBJ - - • •

PSC AL9F8L9

3B-GN2E

4GB SS PSC XHP284

C3G-M

- - • •

PSC ALAF8L93

B-GN2E

8GB DS PSC XHR425

C3G-M

- - • •

Transcend 8G DDR3

1600 DIMM CL11

8GB DS SEC 222

HYKO

6MD9639W - - • •

Transcend 8G DDR3

1600 DIMM CL11

8GB DS E223X8

BO648S

- - • •

ADATA AD3U1600

C2G11-B

2GB SS - N/A - - • •

ADATA AD3U1600

W4G11-B

4GB SS ADATA F209X8

BR6413

- - • •

ADATA AX3U1600

GW8G9

16GB (2x8GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

ADATA AX3U1600

W8G11

16GB (2x8GB)

DS - - 11-11-

11-28

1.5V • •

ADATA AD3U1600

W8G11-B

8GB DS ADATA F211X8

B0640A

- - • •

SanMax SMD-4G68

HP-16KZ

4GB DS HYNIX H5TQ2G83

BFR PBC

- - • •

TEAM TED34G1600

HC11BK

4GB DS - - 11-11-

11-28

- • •

TEAM TLD34G1600

HC9BK(XMP)

4GB DS - - 9-9-24 1.5V • •

Team TED38G1600

HC11BK

8GB DS - - 11-11-

11-28

- • •

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip No. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

1 2

A-DATA AD3U1333

C2G9

2GB SS A-DATA 3CCD-1509HNA1126L - 1.5V • •

A-DATA AX3U1333

C2G9-BP

2GB SS - - - - • •

Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808DEWSBG - 1.5V • •

Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808FEQSBG 9 1.5V • •

Apacer AU02GFA33

C9NBGC

2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808APQSBG - 1.5V • •

(continued on the next page)

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-17

Chapter 1

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip

Brand

Chip No. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

1 2

Apacer 78.B1GD

E.9L10C

4GB DS Apacer AM5D590

8CEHSBG

- 1.5V • •

CORSAIR TR3X6G13

33C9 G

6GB (3x2GB)

SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •

CORSAIR CMD24GX3M6A

1333C9(XMP)

24GB (6x4GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.60V • •

CORSAIR TW3X4G13

33C9D G

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •

CORSAIR CM3X4GA13

33C9N2

4GB DS CORSAIR 256MBDCJG

ELC0401136

9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

CORSAIR CMX4GX3M

1A1333C9

4GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M

4A1333C7

8GB (4x2GB)

DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.60V • •

ELPIDA EBJ21UE8

EDF0-DJ-F

2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-

DJ-F

- 1.35V (low voltage)

• •

G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-

4GBECO(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 8-8-8-

8-24

XMP

1.35V

• •

G.SKILL F3-10666CL7

D-8GBRH(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5V • •

GEIL GG34GB13

33C9DC

4GB (2x2GB)

DS GEIL GL1L128M

88BA12N

9-9-9-24 1.3V

(low voltage)

• •

GEIL GV34GB13

33C9DC

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

GEIL GVP34GB13

33C7DC

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5V • •

Hynix HMT325U6

BFR8C-H9

2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G8

3BFRH9C

- 1.5V • •

Hynix HMT125U6

TFR8A-H9

2GB DS Hynix H5TC1G8

3TFRH9A

- 1.35V (low voltage)

• •

Hynix HMT351U6

BFR8C-H9

4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G8

3BFRH9C

- 1.5V • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8

KF9 CAES

2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FMFX

F-DXX-15A

- 1.5V • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8

KL9 NAES

2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FNLX

F-DXX-15A

- 1.5V • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8

KM9 NAES

2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FNMX

F-BXX-15A

- 1.5V • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-B8

KL9 NEES

2GB DS KINGMAX KKB8FNWB

FGNX-26A

- 1.5V • •

KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8

KL9 NEES

4GB DS KINGMAX KFC8FNLX

F-DXX-15A

- 1.5V • •

KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8

KM9 NEES

4GB DS KINGMAX KFC8FNMX

F-BXX-15A

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333D3S8N9/2G2GB SS Micron IID77 D9LGK - 1.5V • •

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

(continued on the next page)

1-18

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/ DS

Chip Brand Chip No. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

1 2

KINGSTON KVR1333D3

S8N9/2G-SP

2GB SS ELPIDA J2108BCS

E-DJ-F

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333

D3N9/2G

2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BF

BG-DJ-F

9 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333D3

N9/2G-SP

2GB DS KTC D1288JEM

FNGD9U

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333D3

N9/2G-SP

2GB DS KINGSTON D1288JP

SFPGD9U

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KHX1333C7D3

K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 7 1.65V • •

KINGSTON KHX1333C9D3U

K2/4GX(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

DS - - 9 XMP

1.25V

• •

KINGSTON KVR1333

D3N9/4G

4GB DS ELPIDA J2108BC

SE-DJ-F

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333

D3N9/4G

4GB DS KTC D2568JEN

CNGD9U

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333

D3N9/4G

4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR - 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333D3

N9/4G-SP

4GB DS KINGSTON D2568JEN

CPGD9U

- 1.5V • •

Micron MT8JTF2566

4AZ-1G4D1

2GB SS Micron OJD12D9LGK - 1.5V • •

Micron MT8JTF2566

4AZ-1G4M1

2GB SS MICRON IJM22 D9PFJ - 1.5V • •

Micron MT16JTF5126

4AZ-1G4D1

4GB DS Micron OLD22D9LGK - 1.5V • •

NANYA NT4GC64B8

HG0NF-CG

4GB DS NANYA NT5CB256

M8GN-CG

- 1.5V • •

PSC AL8F8G

73F-DJ2

2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - 1.5V • •

SAMSUNG M378B577

3DH0-CH9

2GB SS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846D - 1.5V • •

SAMSUNG M378B567

3FH0-CH9

2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • •

SAMSUNG M378B527

3CH0-CH9

4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C - 1.5V • •

SAMSUNG M378B1G7

3AH0-CH9

8GB DS SAMSUNG K4B4G084

6A-HCH9

- 1.5V • •

Super Talent

W1333UB2GS 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F 9 1.5V • •

Super Talent

W1333UB4GS 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C - 1.5V • •

Super Talent

W1333UX6GM 6GB

(3x2GB)

DS Micron 0BF27D9KPT 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

Transcend JM1333KLN-2G 2GB SS HYNIX H5TQ2G83

BZRH9C

- 1.5V • •

(continued on the next page)

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-19

Chapter 1

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 both slots as one pair 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.

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip No. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

1 2

Transcend 8G DDR3 1333

DIMM CL9

8GB DS Transcend E207X8BO643Y - - • •

Transcend 8G DDR3 1333

DIMM CL9

8GB DS - N/A - - • •

KINGSTEK KSTD3PC-10600 2GB SS MICRON PE911-125E - 1.5V • •

TEAM TED38G1333HC9BK 8GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

DDR3 1066 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip No. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

1 2

Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2GB DS Micron 9HF22D9KPT 7 - • •

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

DJ-F

- 1.35V(low voltage)

• •

KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BFSE-

DJ-F

- 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/4G 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR 7 1.5V • •

1-20

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

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 3.0 x16 slot

A B C D E F G H

PCIe x16 Shared Shared Shared Shared - - - -

SMBUS Controller - - Shared - - - - Wi-Fi - - - Shared - - - Intel® SATA Controller - - - Shared - - - Intel® LAN - - - - Shared - - Intel® xHCI - - - - - Shared - Intel® EHCI #0 - - - - - - - Shared Intel® EHCI #1 Shared - - - - - - HD Audio - - - - - - Shared -

ASMedia® 1042 Shared - - - - - - -

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

-PRO I

7 8 Z

PCIEX16

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-21

Chapter 1

1.2.6 Onboard button

Onboard button allows 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 front panel header lights continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.

• Refer to section 1.2.7 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! switch does not function under Windows

OS environment.

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

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

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

the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

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

• If your system fails to boot up due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch 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.

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO MemOK! switch

1-22

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

1.2.7 POST State 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.

1.2.8 Internal connectors

1. 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.

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO BOOT/VGA/ CPU/DRAM/SBPW LED

BOOT LED

VGA LED

CPU LED

DRAM LED

SBPW LED

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO Digital audio connector

SPDIF_OUT

+5V

SPDIFOUT

GND

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-23

Chapter 1

2. Intel® Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6)

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.

• 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

5.1 RAID congurations or the manual

bundled in the motherboard support DVD.

Z87I-PRO SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors

Z87I-PRO

SATA6G_5

RSATA_TXP5 RSATA_TXN5

GND RSATA_RXN5 RSATA_RXP5

GND

SATA6G_6

GND RSATA_TXP6 RSATA_TXN6

GND RSATA_RXN6 RSATA_RXP6

GND

SATA6G_3

RSATA_TXP3 RSATA_TXN3

GND

RSATA_RXN3

RSATA_RXP3

GND

SATA6G_4

GND RSATA_TXP4 RSATA_TXN4

GND

RSATA_RXN4

RSATA_RXP4

GND

SATA6G_1

RSATA_TXP1 RSATA_TXN1

GND RSATA_RXN1 RSATA_RXP1

GND

SATA6G_2

GND RSATA_TXP2 RSATA_TXN2

GND RSATA_RXN2 RSATA_RXP2

GND

3. 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].

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO Front panel audio connector

AAFP

SENSE2_RETUR SENSE1_RETUR

AGND

PORT2 L SENSE_SEND PORT2 R PORT1 R PORT1 L

HD-audio-compliant

pin definition

PIN 1PIN 1

NC NC

AGND

Line out_L NC Line out_R MICPWR MIC2

Legacy AC’97

compliant definition

1-24

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

4. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)

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.

• The plugged USB 3.0 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode depending on the

operating system’s setting.

PRO

I 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO USB3.0 Front panel connector

USB3_56

5. Speaker connector (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.

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Speaker Out

GND GND

+5V

SPEAKER

PIN 1

Z87I-PRO Speaker Out Connector

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-25

Chapter 1

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

• The USB 2.0 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 2.0 ports under Windows® 7.

6. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910)

This connector is for USB 2.0 port. Connect the USB module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. This USB

connector complies with USB 2.0 specication that supports up to 48 MBps connection

speed.

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO USB2.0 connector

USB+5V

USB_P10-

USB_P10+

GND

USB+5V

USB_P9-

USB_P9+

GND

USB910

PIN 1

1-26

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

7. CPU and chassis fan connectors

(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3)

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.

• 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 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 connector and CHA_FAN connectors support the ASUS FAN Xpert 2 feature.

-PRO I 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO Fan connectors

CHA_FAN1

CHA FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CHA FAN PWR

GND

CHA_FAN2

CHA FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CHA FAN PWR

GND

CHA_FAN3

CHA FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CHA FAN PWR

GND

CPU_FAN

GND

CPU FAN PWR

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWM

ASUS Z87I-PRO

1-27

Chapter 1

• 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 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.

8. 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.

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO ATX power connectors

EATXPWR

PIN 1

GND +5 Volts +5 Volts +5 Volts

-5 Volts GND GND GND PSON# GND

-12 Volts +3 Volts

+3 Volts +12 Volts +12 Volts

+5V Standby

Power OK

GND

+5 Volts

GND

+5 Volts

GND +3 Volts +3 Volts

EATX12V

+12V DC +12V DC +12V DC +12V DC

GND

1-28

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1

9. System panel connector (10-1 pin PANEL)

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

• System power LED (2-pin PWR LED)

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 HDD LED)

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

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

to the HDD.

• Power/Soft-off button (2-pin PWR BTN)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power button.

• 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.

Q-Cable

I-PRO 7 8 Z

Z87I-PRO System panel connector

PIN 1

PWR BTN

GND PWR

PLED-

PLED+

Reset Ground HDD_LEDHDD_LED+

F_PANEL

PWR LED

+HDD_LED RESET

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Chapter 2

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.

Chapter 2: Basic installation

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

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

the chassis’ rear I/O panel.

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 2

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

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

PRO

7 8 Z

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Chapter 2

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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Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 2

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

ASUS Z87I-PRO

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Chapter 2

To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

2-6

Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 2

To remove a DIMM

2.1.4 DIMM installation

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Chapter 2

2.1.5 ATX Power connection

2-8

Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 2

2.1.6 SATA device connection

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Chapter 2

2.1.7 Front I/O Connectors

To install system panel connector

USB 2.0

AAFP

To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector

USB 3.0

To install USB 3.0 connector

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 2

2.1.8 Expansion Card installation

To install PCIe x16 cards

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Chapter 2

2.1.9 Wi-Fi antenna installation

Installing the ASUS 2T2R dual band W-Fi antenna

Connect the bundled ASUS 2T2R dual band Wi-Fi antenna connector to the Wi-Fi ports at the back of the chassis.

POWER eSATA 6G

S/PDIF

USB3.0

USB BIOS Flashback

USB3.0

REAR

SPK

CTR

BASS

LINE

FRONTMIC IN

IO Shield

• Ensure that the ASUS 2T2R dual band Wi-Fi antenna is securely installed to the Wi-Fi ports.

• Ensure to install the Wi-Fi driver before installing the Wi-Fi GO! software.

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Chapter 2

• Do not unplug portable disk, power system, or press the CLR_CMOS button 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.

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.

USB BIOS Flashback port

USB BIOS Flashback button

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Chapter 2

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection

*, ** and ***: Refer to the tables on the next page for Bluetooth/Wi-Fi module LEDs, LAN port LEDs, and audio port

denitions.

910

1213

Rear panel connectors

1. USB 2.0 ports 8. USB 3.0 ports E1 and E2 support ASUS USB 3.0 Boost Turbo Mode.

2. DVI-I port 9. USB 3.0 ports 3 and 4 support ASUS USB 3.0 Boost Turbo Mode.

3. Optical S/PDIF Out port 10. DisplayPort

4. Intel® LAN (RJ-45) port* 11. HDMI port

5. Audio I/O ports** 12. USB BIOS Flashback button

6. Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n

Bluetooth V4.0/3.0 + HS***

13. Clear CMOS button

7. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 support ASUS

USB 3.0 Boost Turbo Mode. Bottom port supports USB BIOS Flashback.

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Chapter 2

• The plugged USB 3.0 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode, depending on the

operating system’s setting.

• 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

8 series chipset, all USB devices connected to the

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.

• Multi-VGA output supports up to three displays under Windows

OS environment, two

displays under BIOS, and one display under DOS.

• Intel display architecture design supports the following maximum supported pixel clocks (Pixel Clock = H total x V Total x Frame Rate (Screen refresh rate)):

- DVI port: 165 MHz

- DisplayPort: 533 MHz

- HDMI port: 300 MHz

* Bluetooth and Wi-Fi module LED indications

** LAN ports LED indications

ACT/LINK

LED

SPEED

LED

LAN port

Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth v4.0/3.0 + HS

Wi-Fi LED Bluetooth LED

Status Description Status Description

Off No link Off No link

Green Linked Blue Linked

Blinking Data activity

Wi-Fi

LED

Bluetooth

LED

* The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such mark by ASUSTeK

Computer Inc. is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

Activity Link LED Speed LED

Status Description Status Description

Off

No link Off 10 Mbps connection

Orange

Linked Orange 100 Mbps connection

Orange (Blinking)

Data activity Green 1 Gbps connection

Orange (Blinking then steady)

Ready to wake up from S5 mode

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Chapter 2

Connect to Headphone and Mic

Connect to Stereo Speakers

2.3.2 Audio I/O connections

Audio I/O ports

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

Port

Headset

2-channel

4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

Light Blue (Rear panel)

Line In Rear Speaker Out

Rear Speaker Out

Lime (Rear panel) Line Out Front Speaker Out

Front Speaker Out

Front Speaker

Out Pink (Rear panel) Mic In Mic In Bass/Center Bass/Center Lime (Front panel) - - - Side Speaker Out

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 2

Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers

Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers

Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers

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Chapter 2

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.

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.

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Chapter 2: Basic installation

Chapter 2

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)

No memory detected

One continuous beep followed by three short beeps

No VGA detected

One continuous beep followed by four short beeps

Hardware component failure

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

2.5 Turning off the computer

While the system is ON, 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.

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Chapter 3

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:

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

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

Inappropriate 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 Z87IP.CAP for this motherboard.

•

BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3-2

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

• 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 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches for information on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button.

• 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.

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:

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

• Press the reset button on the system chassis.

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

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

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Chapter 3

Z87I-PRO

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.

• 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.

Displays the selected shortcut items

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

Selects the display language of the BIOS setup program

Displays the CPU temperature, CPU/5V/

3.3V/12V voltage output, CPU/chassis/ power fan speed

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

Displays the Advanced mode menus

Selects the boot

device priority

Selects the boot device priority

Loads optimized default settings

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 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.

Menu bar

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

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

Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Monitor

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

Boot For changing the system boot conguration

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

Navigation keys

Conguration elds

Back button

Menu bar

General help

Submenu item

Menu items

Pop-up window

Scroll bar

Last modied

settings

Quick note

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Chapter 3

Menu items

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

selecting Main shows the Main menu items.

The other items (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.

3-6

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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 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

Last Modied button

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

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Chapter 3

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 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches for information on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button.

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

[Not

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

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

Administrator Password

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

selected elds in the BIOS setup program.

To set an administrator password:

1. Select the

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the

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

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the

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

<Enter>.

3. From the

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

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

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

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

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

User Password

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

To set a user password:

1. Select the

User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the

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

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

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Chapter 3

To change a user password:

1. Select the

User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the

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

<Enter>.

3. From the

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

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

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

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

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

3.5 Ai Tweaker menu

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

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

values can cause the system to malfunction.

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

installed on the motherboard.

Scroll down to display other BIOS items.

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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

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].

CPU Strap [Auto]

Select a strap close to your target

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/PEG Frequency [100.0]

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

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

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

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]

ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Enabled]

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

User-dened memory frequency mode.

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

CPU Core Ratio [Auto]

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]

When the CPU Core Ratio is set to [Per Core], 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.

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Chapter 3

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]

BCLK Frequency: DRAM Frequency Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the BCLK frequency to DRAM frequency ratio.

[Auto] The ratio is set to the optimized settings.

[100:133] The ratio is set to 100:133.

[100:100] The ratio is set to 100:100.

DRAM Frequency [Auto]

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

BCLK/PEG Frequency item settings.

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

Max. CPU Graphics Ratio [Auto]

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

the system loading.

[Manual] Allows you to manually congure the CPU Graphics Ratio for optimal

performance. The ratio may vary depending on the system loading.

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 Rate [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [2]

Secondary Timings

DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]

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

DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]

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

DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto]

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

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Chapter 3

DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]

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

DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]

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

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 Initial Value [Auto]

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

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]

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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 (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]

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]

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Chapter 3

tRDWR_dr [Auto]

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

tRDWR_dd [Auto]

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

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.

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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.

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.

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

CPU Current Capability [Auto]

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

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

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Chapter 3

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.

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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].

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 to 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 to 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 votlage 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]

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Chapter 3

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] [Disabled] [Enabled]

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]

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]

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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.

Extreme Over-voltage [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] [Adaptive 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.

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

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Chapter 3

Additional Turbo Mode CPU Core Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to increase the voltage for Turbo Mode CPU Core. 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 Core Voltage [Auto]

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

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] [Adaptive Mode]

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

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

Offset Mode Sign [+]

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

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

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.

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

Additional Turbo Mode CPU Cache Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to increase the voltage for Turbo Mode CPU Cache. 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 Cache Voltage [Auto]

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

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Chapter 3

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.

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.

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Chapter 3

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 Control [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]

The following item appears only when you set SVID Support to [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 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 3.040V when Extreme OverVoltage is enabled, or from 0.8000V to 2.700V when Extreme Over-Voltage is disabled with a

0.010V interval.

DRAM Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1.185V to 1.8V 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.

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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 1.185V to 2.135V with a 0.005V interval.

PCH Core 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 0.735V to 1.500V with a 0.005V 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.

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 0.395x to 0.630x with a

0.005x 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

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.

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.

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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.

Hyper-threading [Enabled]

Allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two logical processors, allowing the operating system to schedule two threads or processes simultaneously.

[Enabled] Allows two threads per activated core.

[Disabled] Allows only one thread per activated core.

Active Processor Cores [All]

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

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

Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]

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

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]

Execute Disable prevents 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]

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 or disable the Mid Level Cache (L2) streamer prefetcher.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]

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

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Boot Performance Mode [Max on-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 Dynamic Storage Accelerator for C state conguration.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

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Chapter 3

CPU Power Management Conguration

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

EIST [Enabled]

Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology 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]

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]

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

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]

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]

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]

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Chapter 3

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]

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.

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Chapter 3

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

Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

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

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.

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

SATA hard disk drives.

Aggressive LPM Support [Auto]

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

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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 [Yellow])

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]

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Chapter 3

VT-d [Enabled]

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 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]

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]

iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled]

Allows you to enable the iGPU Multi-Monitor. The iGPU shared system memory size will be xed at 64MB. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

3.6.4 System Agent Conguration

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Chapter 3

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 Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to congure the PCIEX16 speed. Conguration options: [Auto] [Gen1]

[Gen2]

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.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

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Chapter 3

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

be recognized in boot devices list.

[Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If

detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.

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

feature.

[Disabled] Disables the EHCI Hand-off support.

Mass Storage Devices [Auto]

Allows the system to detect the devices according to their media formats.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Floppy] [Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CD-ROM]

USB Single Port Control

Allows you to enable or disable the individual USB port.

Refer to section 1.2.2 Motherboard layout for the location of the USB ports.

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Chapter 3

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.

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Chapter 3

3.6.7 Onboard Devices Conguration

Scroll down to view the other BIOS items.

HD Audio Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the High Denition Audio Controller.

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

The following items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller to [Enabled].

Front Panel Type [HD]

Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-denition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio

module supports.

[HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high denition

audio.

[AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97

SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF]

[SPDIF] Sets to an SPDIF audio output.

[HDMI] Sets to an HDMI audio output.

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Chapter 3

Wi-Fi Controller [Enabled]

Allows you to enable/disable the onboard Wi-Fi controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Bluetooth Controller [Enabled]

Allows you to enable/disable the onboard Bluetooth controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller (USB3_E12) [Enabled]

Allows you to enable/disable the Asmedia USB 3.0 controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support [Enabled]

Allows you to enable/disable the Asmedia USB 3.0 battery charging support.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Intel LAN Controller [Enabled]

Allows you to enable/disable the Intel LAN controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

The following item appears only when you set the Intel LAN Controller to [Enabled].

Intel PXE OPROM [Disabled]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Intel® LAN controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

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Chapter 3

ErP Ready [Disabled]

Allows you to switch off some power at S4+S5 or S5 to get the system ready for ErP requirement. When set to [Enabled], all other PME options will be switched off.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Deep S4 [Disabled]

When enabled, the system in S4 state will further reduce power usage and will power off the USB devices. The system in deep S4 state can be woken up via the power button, devices in

LAN or other ways except via the USB devices. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]

[Power On] The system goes into ON state after an AC power loss.

[Power Off] The system goes into OFF state after an AC power loss.

[Last State] The system goes into either OFF or ON state, whatever the system state

was before the AC power loss.

Power On By PCIE [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the PCIE devices to generate a wake-on-LAN feature of the

Intel®/Realtek LAN device or other installed PCIE LAN devices.

[Enabled] Enables the PCIE devices to generate a wake-on-LAN feature of the Intel

Realtek LAN device or other installed PCIE LAN devices..

Power On By RTC [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables RTC to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] When set to

[Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/

Minute/Second will become user-congurable with set values.

3.6.8 APM

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

3.6.9 Network Stack

Network Stack [Disabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following item appears only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled].

Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE boot option.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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Chapter 3

3.7 Monitor menu

The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings.

Scroll down to display the other BIOS items.

CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU temperature. Select [Ignore] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.

CPU Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A], Chassis Fan 1/3 Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, chassis, and power fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the eld shows N/A. Select [Ignore] if you do not wish to display the detected speed.

CPU Input Voltage (VCCIN), 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. Select [Ignore] if you do not want to detect this item.

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Chapter 3: BIOS setup

Chapter 3

CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU Q-Fan operating mode.

[Advance Mode]

Detects the type of CPU fan installed and automatically switches the mode control. When a 3-pin CPU fan is installed, select this mode for the DC mode Q-Fan control.

[Auto] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature in PWM mode for 4-pin CPU fan.

[Disabled] Disables the Q-Fan control.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Q-Fan Control to [Advance Mode] and [Auto].

CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM]

Allows you to set the low limit warning for CPU Fan speed.

Conguration options: [Ignore] [100 RPM] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM]

CPU Fan Profile [Standard]

Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan. [Standard] Set to make the CPU fan adjust automatically depending on the CPU

temperature.

[Silent] Set to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.

[Turbo] Set to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.

[Manual] Set to assign the detailed fan speed control parameters.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Fan Prole to [Manual].

CPU Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range from 20ºC to 75ºC.

CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The

values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature reaches the

upper limit, the CPU fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle.

CPU Lower Temperature [20]

Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.

CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]

Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The

values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under

40ºC, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

Chassis Q-Fan Control 1/3 [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Asus Z87I-PRO User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Safety information

About this guide

Package contents

Installation tools and components

1.1 Special features

1.1.1 Product highlights

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.1.2 ASUS Exclusive Features

1.1.3 ASUS EZ DIY

1.1.4 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 button

1.2.7 POST State LEDs

1.2.8 Internal connectors

2.1 Building your PC system

2.1.1 Motherboard installation

Chapter 2: Basic 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 Connectors

2.1.8 Expansion Card installation

2.1.9 Wi-Fi antenna installation

2.2 BIOS update utility

2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections

2.3.1 Rear I/O connection

2.3.2 Audio I/O connections

2.5 Turning off the computer

3.1 Knowing BIOS

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

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

3.6.8 APM

3.6.9 Network Stack

3.7 Monitor menu