Motherboard Z97-A/ USB 3.
E10107 First Edition January 2015 Copyright © 2015 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Contents Safety information....................................................................................................... iv About this guide.......................................................................................................... iv Package contents........................................................................................................ vi Z97-A/USB 3.1 specifications summary....................................................................
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.
Where to find 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 flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.
Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items: Motherboard ASUS Z97-A/USB 3.1 Motherboard Cables 3 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables 1 x ASUS SLI bridge connector Accessories 2-in-1 Q-connector Application DVD Support DVD Documentation User Guide If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer. Z97-A/USB 3.
Z97-A/USB 3.1 specifications summary - Supports Intel® InTru™ 3D, Quick Sync Video, Intel® Clear Video HD Technology, and Intel® Insider™ VGA - Maximum shared memory of 512 MB * DisplayPort 1.2 Multi-Stream Transport compliant, supports DP 1.2 monitor daisy-chain up to 3 displays.
Z97-A/USB 3.1 specifications summary DIGI+ Power Control - CPU Power - Industry-leading digital 8-phase power design - ASUS CPU power utility TPU - Auto Tuning, TPU, GPU Boost, 2-level TPU switch EPU - EPU, EPU switch Fan Xpert 3 - Featuring Fan Auto Tuning function and multiple thermistors selection for optimized system cooling control Turbo App - Featuring automatic system performance tuning, network priority, and audio scene configuration for selected applications.
Z97-A/USB 3.1 specifications summary Crystal Sound 2 - Feel the sound power with different usage scenarios Steam support - Compatible with the most fun gaming platform under Windows® system EZ DIY Push Notice ASUS Exclusive Features - Monitor your PC status with smart devices in real time UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user interface - O.C.
Z97-A/USB 3.1 specifications summary 1 x VGA port 1 x Optical S/PDIF out port Rear panel I/O ports 1 x Intel® LAN (RJ45) port 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports 2 x USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 ports (teal blue) 8-channel audio I/O ports 1 x 19-pin USB 3.0/2.0 connector, supports additional 2 USB 3.0 / 2.0 ports 3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors, support additional 6 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports 1 x M.2 Socket 3 (for M Key, type 2260/2280 storage devices) 1 x SATA Express connector (black) 4 x SATA 6.
Chapter 1: Product Introduction Product introduction 1.1 Before you proceed 1 Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. 1.2 • 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.
Place this side towards the rear of the chassis 1.2.
1.2.4 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) 2. Intel® LGA1150 CPU socket 3. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT; CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2, CHA_FAN3, CHA_FAN4) 4. DDR3 DIMM slots 5. CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) 6. MemOK! button 7. EZ XMP switch 8. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12) 9. Intel® Z97 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connector (7-pin SATA6G_1, SATA6G_2, SATA6G_34, SATA6G_56, SATA Express 10. EPU switch 11.
1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1150 socket designed for the 4th Generation and New 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium®, and Celeron® processors. Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1150 socket. • Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
1.3.1 Installing the CPU ASUS Z97-A/USB 3.
1.3.2 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 uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly 1.4 System memory 1.4.1 Overview This motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. 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. According to Intel® CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65 V is recommended to protect the CPU. ASUS Z97-A/USB 3.
Recommended memory configurations 1.4.2 Memory configurations You may install 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, and 8 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. You can refer to the recommended memory population below. 1-8 • 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 configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
Z97-A/USB 3.1 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 3200 (O.C.) MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 AVEXIR AVD3UH32001304G-4CI(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) SS - - 13-15-15-35 1.65V • • • G.SKILL F3-3200C12Q-16GTXDG(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) SS - - 12-15-15-35 1.65V • • • DDR3 3100 (O.C.) MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO.
DDR3 2800 (O.C.) MHz capability 1-10 Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage 1 2 4 AVEXIR AVD3UH28001208G4BZ1(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 12-14-14-35 1.65V • • • A-DATA AX3U2800W 4G12(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) SS - - 12-14-14-36 1.65V • • • A-DATA AX3U2800W 8G12(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 12-14-14-36 1.65V • • G.SKILL F3-2800C12Q32GTXD(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 12-13-13-35 1.65V • • • G.
DDR3 2666 (O.C.) MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 Apacer 78.BAGFF.AFC0C(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 12-13-13-35 - • • • Apacer 78.BAGFR.AFD0C(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 12-13-13-35 - • • • Apacer 78.CAGFF.AFD0C(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 12-13-13-35 - • • • CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A2666C11 (Ver5.12)(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-13-13-35 1.65 • • • G.
DDR3 2400 (O.C.) MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 G.SKILL F3-19200CL9Q16GBZMD(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-11-31 1.65 • • • G.SKILL F3-2400C11Q-32GXM(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 11-13-13-31 1.65 • • • GEIL GOC316GB24 00C10QC(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 10-11-11-30 1.65 • • • GEIL GOC316GB24 00C11QC(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.
DDR3 2133 (O.C.) MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 CORSAIR CMY8GX3M2A2133C11R (Ver4.21)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-27 1.5 • • • CORSAIR CMZ8GX3M2A2133C11R (Ver4.21)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 11-11-11-27 1.5 • • • G.SKILL F3-17000CL11Q264GBZLD(XMP) 64GB (8x8GB) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.5 • • • G.SKILL F3-17000CL9Q16GBZH(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-11-10-28 1.65 • • • G.
DDR3 1866 (O.C.) MHz capability 1-14 Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 CORSAIR CMT32GX3M4X1866C9(Ver3.23) (XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • • • CORSAIR CMY16GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver 4.21)(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • • • CORSAIR CMY8GX3M2A1866C9 (Ver3.24) (XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.5 • • • CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M2A1866C10 (Ver5.29)(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.
DDR3 1600 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 A-DATA AD3U1600W4G11 4GB SS A-DATA 3WCD-1211A 11-11-11-28 - • • • A-DATA AD3U1600W8G11 8GB DS A-DATA 3WCD-1211A 11-11-11-28 - • • • A-DATA ADDU1600W 4G11-B 4GB SS A-DATA DWND-1211A 9-9-9-24 - • • • A-DATA ADDU1600W 8G11-B 8GB DS ELPIDA J4208EBBG-GN-F 9-9-9-24 - • • • A-DATA AX3U1600W4G9DB(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.
DDR3 1600 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M2A1 600C10 (Ver.3.24) (XMP ) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 10-1010-27 1.5 • • • CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M 4A1600C9(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • • CORSAIR CMZ16GX3M4X1600C9 (Ver8.16)(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB) DS - - 1600-9-99-24 1.5 • • • CORSAIR CMZ32GX3M 4X1600C10 (Ver2.2) (XMP) 32GB (4x8GB) DS - - 10-1010-27 1.
DDR3 1600 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage 1 2 4 KINGSTON KHX16C10 B1K2/16X(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - - 1.5 • • • KINGSTON KHX16C9K2/16 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - 1333-9-9-9-24 1.5 • • • KINGSTON KHX16C9P1K2/16 16GB (2x8GB) DS - - - 1.5 • • • KINGSTON KVR16N11/4 4GB DS KINGSTON D2568JP UCPGGBU 11-11-11-28-1 - • • • KINGSTON KVR16N11/4 4G DS Hynix H5TQ2G8 3CFRPBC - 1.
DDR3 1333 MHz capability 1-18 Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 AMD AE32G1339U1-U 2GB SS AMD 23EY4587 MB3H - 1.5 • • • AMD AE34G1339U2-U 4GB DS AMD 23EY4587 MB3H - 1.5 • • • Apacer 78.B1GDE.
DDR3 1333 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO.
To remove a DIMM 1.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub‑sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 1.5.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card: 1-20 1.
1.5.2 Configuring an expansion card After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software settings: 1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for information on BIOS setup. 2. Assign an IRQ to the card. 3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card. When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments.
PCI Express 3.0 operating mode VGA configuration PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 Single VGA/PCIe card PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 x16 (single VGA recommended) N/A x8 x8 Dual VGA/PCIe card • We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode. • Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H I.G.D.
1.6 Jumpers 1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3.
1-24 2. CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) The CPU Over Voltage jumper allows you to set a higher CPU voltage for a flexible overclocking system, depending on the type of the installed CPU. To gain more CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 2-3. To go back to its default CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 1-2.
1.7 Connectors 1.7.1 Rear panel connectors Rear panel connectors 1. DisplayPort 7. DVI-D port 2. VGA port 8. USB 3.0 ports 56 3. USB 3.1 ports E12 (Support USB 3.1 Boost) 9. USB 3.0 ports 34 4. PS/2 keyboard/mouse port 10. Optical S/PDIF Out port 5. LAN port* 11. Audio I/O ports** 6. HDMI port * and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs and audio port definitions. ASUS Z97-A/USB 3.
• 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 for data storage. • We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster and better performance from your USB 3.0 devices. • Due to the design of the Intel® 9 series chipset, all USB devices connected to the USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller.
1.7.2 1. Internal connectors Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM) This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The COM module is purchased separately. 2. Intel® Z97 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1, SATA6G_2, SATA6G_34, SATA6G_56, SATA Express) This connector connects to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables.
3. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT; CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2, CHA_FAN3, CHA_FAN4) 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. 1-28 • DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components.
4. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit. • For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 350 W.
5. 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. 6. • We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
7. DirectKey connector (2-pin DRCT) This connector is for the chassis-mounted button that supports the DirectKey function. Connect the button cable that supports DirectKey, from the chassis to this connector on the motherboard. Ensure that your chassis comes with the extra button cable that supports the DirectKey feature. Refer to the technical documentation that came with the chassis for details. 8. M.2 socket 3 This socket allows you to install an M.2 (NGFF) SSD module.
9. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112, USB1314) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specifications and supports up to 480 Mb/s connection speed. Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.
11. 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.
12. 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 benefits of USB 3.0 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gb/s, faster charging time for USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0. The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately. 1-34 • These connectors are based on xHCI specification.
13. Thunderbolt header (5-pin TB_HEADER) This connector is for the add-on Thunderbolt I/O card that supports Intel’s Thunderbolt Technology, allowing you to connect up to six Thunderbolt-enabled devices and a DisplayPort-enabled display in a daisy-chain configuration. The add-on Thunderbolt I/O card and Thunderbolt cables are purchased separately. 14.
1.8 1. Onboard LEDs Standby Power LED The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging any motherboard components. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED. 2.
3. TPU LEDs (TPU_LED) The TPU LEDs light up when you set the TPU switch to TPU_I mode or TPU_II mode. 4. EPU LED (OLED2) The EPU LED lights up when the EPU switch is enabled. ASUS Z97-A/USB 3.
5. EZ XMP LED (XLED1) This LED lights up when you enable the EZ XMP switch.
1.9 Onboard buttons and switches Onboard buttons and switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. EPU switch Enable this switch to automatically detect the current PC loadings and intelligently moderate the power consumption. Enable this switch when the system is powered off.
2. MemOK! button Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! button lights continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot. 1-40 • Refer to section 1.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED. • The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed.
3. TPU switch With its two-level adjustment functions, the TPU allows you to automatically adjusts the CPU ratio and clock speed for an optimal system performance. • Enable this switch when the system is powered off. • When the TPU switch is set to Enabled (TPU_I: CPU Ratio Boost), the system automatically adjusts the CPU ratio for an enhanced performance.
4. Power-on button The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake up the system. The button also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or installing any motherboard component. 5. EZ XMP switch Enable this switch to overclock the installed DIMMs, allowing you to enhance the DIMM’s speed and performance.
1.10 Software support 1.10.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® 7 (32bit/64bit) and Windows® 8 (32bit/64bit) Operating Systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information. 1.10.
1-44 Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 2: BIOS information BIOS information 2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS 2 The ASUS website publishes the latest BIOS versions to provide enhancements on system stability, compatibility,and performance. However, BIOS updating is potentially risky. If there is no problem using the current version of BIOS, DO NOT manually update the BIOS. Inappropriate BIOS updating may result to system’s failure to boot. Carefully follow the instructions in this chapter to update your BIOS when necessary.
2.1.1 EZ Update EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s softwares, drivers, and the BIOS version easily. With this utlity, you can also manually update the saved BIOS and select a boot logo when the system goes into POST.
7. Reboot the system when the update process is done. 2.1.3 • This function supports USB flash disks formatted using FAT32 or FAT16 on a single partition only. • Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu.
Recovering the BIOS To recover the BIOS: 1. Turn on the system. 2. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive or the USB flash drive that contains the BIOS file to the USB port. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the utility reads the BIOS file and automatically enters ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS settings.
Booting the system in DOS environment To boot the system in DOS: 1. Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the USB port. 2. Boot your computer then press to launch the select boot device screen. 3. When the select boot device screen appears, insert the Support DVD into the optical drive then select the optical drive as the boot device. Please select boot device: E1: ASUS DVD-E818A6T (4069MB) USB DISK 2.0 (3824MB) UEFI: (FAT) USB DISK 2.
2. On the BIOS Updater screen, press to switch from Files panel to Drives panel then select D:. ASUSTeK BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30 [2015/01/01] Current ROM BOARD: Z97-A/USB 3.1 VER: 0305 (H :00 B :00) DATE: 23/01/2015 PATH: Update ROM BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown C:\ C: D: FORMAN~1 Z97AUSB31.CAP 8390626 2015-01-01 21:14:34 Drives panel Files panel Note [Enter] Select or Load [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [Tab] Switch [Esc] Exit [V] Drive Info 3.
2.2 BIOS setup program Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program. Entering BIOS Setup at startup To enter BIOS Setup at startup, press during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press , POST continues with its routines. Entering BIOS Setup after POST To enter BIOS Setup after POST: • Press ++ simultaneously.
2.2.1 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 hot key for the advanced BIOS settings. The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed.
2.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations. To switch from EZ Mode to Advanced Mode, click 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 configuration For changing the basic system configuration Main Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings Advanced Boot For changing the advanced system settings For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings For changing the system boot configuration Tool For configuring options for special functions Exit For selecting th
EZ Tuning Wizard (F11) This button above the menu bar allows you to view and tweak the overclocking settings of your system. It also allows you to change the motherboard’s SATA mode from AHCI to RAID mode. Refer to section 2.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard for more information. Quick Note (F9) This button above the menu bar allows you to key in 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.
2.2.3 QFan Control The QFan Control allows you to set a fan profile or manually configure the operating speed of your CPU and chassis fans.
To configure your fans: 1. Select the fan that you want to configure and to view its current status. 2. Click and drag the speed points to adjust the fans’ operating speed. 3. Click Apply to save the changes then click Exit (ESC). 2.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard EZ Tuning Wizard allows you to overclock your CPU and DRAM, computer usage, and CPU fan to their best settings. You can also easily set RAID in your system using this feature.
Creating RAID To create RAID: 1. Press on your keyboard or click EZ Tuning Wizard screen. from the BIOS screen to open 2. Click RAID then click Next. 3. • Ensure that your HDDs have no existing RAID volumes. • Ensure to connect your HDDs to Intel® SATA connectors. Select the type of storage for your RAID Easy Backup or Super Speed, then click Next. a. For Easy Backup, click Next then select from Easy Backup (RAID1) or Easy Backup (RAID10).
2.3 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 BIOS items: from the BIOS screen to open 1. Press on your keyboard or click Setup Tree Map screen. 2. On the Setup Tree Map screen, select the BIOS items that you want to save in MyFavorites screen. Main menu panel Selected shortcut items Submenu panel ASUS Z97-A/USB 3.
3. Select an item from main menu panel, then click the submenu that you want to save as . favorite from the submenu panel and click You cannot add the following items to My Favorite items: • Items with submenu options • User-managed items such as language and boot order • Configuration items such as Memory SPD Information, system time and date. 4. Click Exit (ESC) or press key to close Setup Tree Map screen. 5. 2.4 Go to My Favorites menu to view the saved BIOS items.
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 fields in the BIOS setup program. To set an administrator password: 1. Select the Administrator Password item and press . 2. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press . 3. Confirm the password when prompted. To change an administrator password: 1.
2.5 Ai Tweaker menu The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. The configuration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you installed on the motherboard. Scroll down to display other BIOS items. 2.5.
The following item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [Manual]. Filter PLL [Auto] Set this item to high BCLK (base clock) mode when using a very high BCLK to improve overclocking capability. Configuration options: [Auto] [Low BCLK mode] [High BCLK mode] BCLK Frequency [Auto] This item allows you to set the BCLK (base clock) frequency to enhance the system performance. Use the <+> or <-> to adjust the value. The values range from 80.0 MHz to 300.0 MHz.
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. 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.
2.5.9 DRAM Frequency [Auto] This item allows you to set the memory operating frequency. The configurable options vary with the BCLK (base clock) frequency setting. Select the auto mode to apply the optimized setting.
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [63] DRAM Command Rate [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [2] Secondary Timings DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15] DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [511] DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [65535] DR
DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D0) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHA_R0D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D0) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHA_R1D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D0) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHB_R0D1) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D0) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D1) [Auto] Configura
tRDRD_dr [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] tRDRD_dd [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] tWRRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] tWRRD_dr [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] tWRRD_dd [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] tWRWR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [7] tWRWR_dr [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] tWRWR_dd [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] Dec_WRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] t
Channel A/B DIMM Control [Enable Both DIMMs] This item allows you to enable or disable the DIMMs on channels A and B. Configuration options: [Enable Both DIMMS] [Disable DIMM0] [Disable DIMM1] [Disable Both DIMMS] Scrambler Setting [Optimized (ASUS)] This item allows you to set the optimized mode to enhance system stability. Configuration options: [Optimized (ASUS] [Default (MRC)] MCH Full Check [Auto] Enable this item to enhance the stability of your system.
CPU VRM Switching Frequency [Auto] This item affects the VRM transient response speed and the component thermal production. Select [Manual] to configure a higher frequency for a quicker transient response speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual] DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored. The following item appears only when you set the CPU VRM Switching Frequency to [Manual].
2.5.15 Internal CPU Power Management The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and their features. Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled] This item 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.
CPU Internal Power Fault Control Thermal Feedback [Auto] This item allows your system to take precautionary actions to protect the CPU when the thermal condition of the external regulator exceeds the threshold. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Integrated VR Fault Management [Auto] Disable this item to prevent tripping the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator when doing over-voltage. We recommend you to disable this item when overclocking.
Power Fast Ramp Response [Auto] This item allows you to enhance the response of the CPU voltage regulator during the load transients. Use the <+> or <-> to adjust the value. The values range from 0.00 to 1.50. Configuration options: [Auto] [0.00] - [1.50] CPU Internal Power Saving Control Power Saving Level 1 Threshold [Auto] Lower value provides sufficient overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking potential. Higher value provides better power-saving condition.
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 0.001 V to 0.999 V with a 0.001 V interval. 2.5.18 CPU Cache Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set the amount of voltage fed to the CPU uncores including its cache.
The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Manual]. CPU Graphics Voltage Override [Auto] This item 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 Core Voltage to [Offset Mode].
CPU Analog I/O Voltage Offset [Auto] This item allows you to set the amount of voltage fed to the analog portion of the I/O on the CPU. By default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. Increase the amount of voltage to enhance the overclocking capability. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001 V to 0.999 V with a 0.001 V interval. 2.5.21 CPU Digital I/O Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+] [+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.
2.5.25 PCH Core Voltage [Auto] This item 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 0.70 V to 1.5 V with a 0.0125 V interval. 2.5.
2.5.31 Clock Crossing Reset Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing reset voltage when the rising edge of the BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK D+. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.1 V to 1.9 V with a 0.00625 V interval. 2.5.
2.6.1 CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. The items shown in submenu may be different due to the CPU you installed. Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled] This item allows you to protect the CPU by decreasing its frequency as it reaches the thermal throttle point. The thermal monitor includes TM1 (Thermal monitor 1), TM2 (Thermal monitor 2), and EMTTM (Enhanced Multi-threaded Thermal Monitoring).
Dynamic Storage Accelerator [Disabled] This item allows you to accelerate the performance of the SSDs (Solid-State Drives) by dynamically adjusting the power management during heavy multitasking. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU Power Management Configuration This item allows you to manage and configure the CPU’s power.
C7 Latency [Long] This item allows you to set the duration of C7 latency for C7 state. Configuration options: [Short] [Long] Package C State Support [Auto] This item allows you to set the a C-state support for the CPU package. Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [C0/C1] [C2] [C3] [C6] [CPU C7] [CPU C7s] 2.6.2 PCH Configuration PCI Express Configuration This item allows you to configure the PCI Express slots.
Hybrid Hard Disk Support [Disabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the hybrid hard disk support for a faster resume time. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Intel Smart Connect Technology This item allows the system to support Intel Smart Connect Technology, that periodically refreshes selected applications when the system is in sleep mode. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] 2.6.
Alternate ID [Disabled] This item allows you to report the alternate device ID. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA6G (SATA6G_1 - SATA6G_6) These items allow you to assign a name of each SATA 6G connectors. Hot Plug [Disabled] (SATA6G_1 - SATA6G_6) These items allow you to enable/disable SATA Hot Plug Support. You can also assign Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.6.
DMI Configuration This item allows you to control various DMI (direct media interface) to run at PCI-E 2.0 speed. DMI Gen 2 [Auto] Set this item to [Enabled] to run DMI at PCI-E 2.0 speed. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] NB PCI-E Configuration This item allows you to configure the NB PCI Express settings. PCIEx16_1/2 Link Speed [Auto] This item allows you to configure the PCIEx16 speed for slots 1 and 2.
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] This item allows your system to detect the devices according to their media formats. Configuration options: [Auto] [Floppy] [Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CD-ROM] USB Single Port Control This item allows you to enable or disable the individual USB ports. Refer to section 1.2.
ASPM Support [Disabled] This item allows you to select the ASPM state for energy-saving conditions. Configuration options: [Disabled] [L0s] [L1] [L0sL1] [Auto] SA - PCI Express options DMI Link ASPM Control [Disabled] This item allows you to control the Active State Power Management on both CPU and PCH (platform controller hub) Both DMI link ASPM control items of the CPU and PCH sides must be enabled for the ASPM to take effect.
USB 3.1 & PCIEx16_3 [USB 3.1] This item allows you to switch the bandwidth between USB 3.1 ports or PCIEx16_3 slot. PCIEx16_3 slot shares bandwidth with USB 3.1. Configuration options: [USB 3.1] [PCIEx16_3] PCI Express Slot and M.2 Bandwidth [PCIX1 1 and 2 slot at X1 Mode] [PCIeX1 and 2 slot at X1 Mode] Enables the PCIex1_1 and PCIex1_2 to run at X1 mode. [M.2 Mode] The M.2 slot runs at X2 mode for high performance support. ASMedia USB 3.
Serial Port Configuration The items in this menu allow you to configure your motherboard’s serial ports. Serial Port [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the serial ports. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Change Settings [IO=3F8h, IRQ=4] This item allows you to select an optimal setting for Super IO device. Configuration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h; IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2E8h; IRQ=3] 2.6.
2.6.9 Network Stack Configuration Network stack [Disable] This item allows you to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Configuration options: [Disable] [Enable] The following item appears only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled]. Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE wake event. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.6.10 Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology Create RAID Volume This item allows you to create a RAID volume.
2.7 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. 2.7.1 Qfan Tuning Click this item to automatically detect the lowest speed and configure the minimum duty cycle for each fan. 2.7.
2.7.4 CPU Core 0/3 Voltage, 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. 2.7.5 CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto] This item allows you to set the CPU Q-Fan operating mode. [Auto] Detects the type of CPU fan installed and automatically switches the control modes. [PWM Mode] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature in PWM mode for 4-pin CPU fan.
CPU Fan Middle Duty Cycle(%) [20] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the CPU fan middle duty cycle. The values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature reaches the upper limit, the CPU fan operates at the maximum duty cycle. CPU Lower Temperature [20] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the CPU fan’s lower temperature. The values range from 20% to 75%. CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 0% to 100%.
Chassis Fan 1/4 Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from 20% to 100%. When the chassis temperature reaches the upper limit, the chassis fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle. Chassis Fan 1/4 Middle Temperature [45] Use the <+> or <-> keys to set the value for Chassis Fan Middle Temperature. Chassis Fan 1/4 Middle Duty Cycle(%) [60] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the chassis fan middle duty cycle.
2.8 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. 2.8.1 Fast Boot [Enabled] [Disabled] This item allows your system to go back to its normal boot speed. [Enabled] This item allows your system to accelerate the boot speed. The following items appear only when you set the Fast Boot to [Enabled]. SATA Support [All Devices] [All Devices] All devices connected to SATA ports are available during POST. This process extends the POST time.
PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse Support [Auto] Select any of these settings when PS/2 keyboard and mouse are installed. These settings only apply when fastboot is enabled. [Auto] For a faster POST time, PS/2 devices are only available when the system boots up or rebooted when the PS/2 devices are not reconnected or changed. If you disconnect or change the PS/2 devices before restarting the system, PS/2 devices will not be available and BIOS will not be accessible via PS/2 devices.
The following items appear only when you set the Boot Logo Display to [Disabled]. Post Report [5 sec] This item allows you to select a desired POST report waiting time. Configuration options: [1 sec] - [10 sec] [Until Press ESC] 2.8.4 Bootup NumLock State [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable power-on state of the NumLock. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.8.
The following items appear only when you set the Launch CSM to [Enabled]. Boot Devices Control [UEFI and Legacy OpROM] This item allows you to select the type of devices that you want to boot. Configuration options: [UEFI and Legacy OpROM] [Legacy OpROM only] [UEFI only] Boot from Network Devices [Legacy OpROM first] This item allows you to select the type of network devices that you want to launch.
PK Management The Platform Key (PK) locks and secures the firmware from any permissible changes. The system verifies the PK before your system enters the OS. Delete PK This item allows you to delete the PK from your system. Once the PK is deleted, all the system’s Secure Boot keys will not be active. Configuration options: [Yes] [No] Load PK from File This item allows you to load the downloaded PK from a USB storage device.
DBX Management The dbx (Revoked Signature database) lists the forbidden images of db items that are no longer trusted and cannot be loaded. Delete the dbx This item allows you to delete the dbx file from your system. Load dbx from File This item allows you to load the downloaded dbx from a USB storage device. Configuration options: [Yes] [No] Append dbx from File This item allows you to load the additional dbx from a storage device so that more db’s images cannot be loaded.
2.9 Tool menu The Tool menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the submenu. 2.9.1 Setup Animator This item allows you to enable or disable the Setup animator. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.9.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility This item allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press , a confirmation message appears.
2.9.4 ASUS DRAM SPD Information This item allows you to view the DRAM SPD information. 2.10 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit menu. ASUS Z97-A/USB 3.
2-58 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Appendices Appendices Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference. • This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
IC: Canadian Compliance Statement Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specifications. This device complies with RSS 210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations. This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s).
REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm. DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling.
English AsusTek Inc. hereby declares that this device is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of CE Directives. Please see the CE Declaration of Conformity for more details. Français AsusTek Inc. déclare par la présente que cet appareil est conforme aux critères essentiels et autres clauses pertinentes des directives européennes. Veuillez consulter la déclaration de conformité CE pour plus d’informations. Deutsch AsusTek Inc.
ASUS contact information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259 Telephone +886-2-2894-3447 Fax +886-2-2890-7798 E-mail info@asus.com.tw Web site www.asus.com.com/ Technical Support Telephone Fax Online support +86-21-38429911 +86-21-5866-8722, ext. 9101# http://www.asus.com/tw/support/ ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America) Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA Telephone +1-510-739-3777 Fax +1-510-608-4555 Web site http://www.
(510)739-3777/(510)608-4555 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539. Asus Computer International Date : Signature : Representative Person’s Name : Jan. 28, 2015 Steve Chang / President This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
