Asus Computer Hardware Z87 A User Manual

Z87-A

Contents

Safety information...................................................................................................... iv

About this guid e ......................................................................................................... iv

Z87-A speciﬁcations summary ................................................................................. vi

Before you proceed ...................................................................................1 -1

Motherboard overview...............................................................................1 -2

Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................................1 -4

System memory .........................................................................................1 -8

Expansion slots........................................................................................1 -22

Onboard button s ......................................................................................1 -24

Onboard LED s ..........................................................................................1 -27

Jumper s ....................................................................................................1 -29

Connector s ...............................................................................................1 -30

Software support......................................................................................1 -40

Updating BIOS............................................................................................2 -1

BIOS setup progra m ..................................................................................2 -6

My Favorite s .............................................................................................2 -10

Main menu ................................................................................................ 2-11

Ai Tweaker menu......................................................................................2 -13

Advanced menu .......................................................................................2 -25

Monitor menu ...........................................................................................2 -34

Boot menu ................................................................................................2 -37

Tools menu ...............................................................................................2 -43

Exit men u ..................................................................................................2 -45

Appendices

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

iii

Safety information

Electrical safety

•

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

before relocating the system.

•

When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables

for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,

disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

•

Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all

power cables are unplugged.

Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices

could interrupt the grounding circuit.

Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not

sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power

company.

•

If the power supply is broken, do not try to ﬁx it by yourself. Contact a qualiﬁed service

technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

•

Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals

that came with the package.

Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power

cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.

To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,

slots, sockets and circuitry.

Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area

where it may become wet.

•

Place the product on a stable surface.

If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualiﬁed service

technician or your retailer.

About this guide

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

motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

•

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

supports.

•

Chapter 2: BIOS information

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.

Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

Where to ﬁnd more information

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

updates.

ASUS websites

The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software

products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.

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.

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

Italics

Indicates a menu or an item to select.

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 (+).

Z87-A speciﬁcations 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

Memory

Intel^®Z87 Express Chipset

4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 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.)ꢀ / 18�� (O.C.)ꢀ / 16�� / 1�� z, non��CC, un�buffered

memory

Dual channel memory architecture

Supports Intel^®�xtreme �emory Proﬁle (X�P)

Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual

CPUs. Please refer to Memory QVL (Qualiﬁed Vendors List) for details.

Expansion slots

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

1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot (max. at x2 mode, compatible with PCIe x1

and x2 devices)

2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots

2 x PCI slots

VGA

Integrated Graphics Processor - Intel^®HD Graphics support

Multi-VGA output support: Mini DisplayPort/HDMI/DVI-D/RGB port

Supports DisplayPort 1.2ꢀ with max. resolution 4�96 x 216� @24�z and

�84� x 216� @6��z (for DisplayPort and �ini DisplayPort)

Supports �D�I with max. resolution of 4�96 x 216� @24�z and 256� x

16�� @6��z

Supports DVI with max. resolution of 192� x 12�� @6��z

Supports RGB with max. resolution of 192� x 12�� @6��z

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.

Multi-GPU support

Storage

Supports NVIDIA^®Quad-GPU SLI™ Technology (with 2 PCIe x16 graphics

cards)

Supports AMD^®Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology

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 (yellow)

Supports Intel^®Smart Response Technology, Intel^®Rapid Start

Technology, Intel^®Smart Connect Technology*

Supports on Intel^®Core™ processor family.

Realtek^®8111GR Gigabit LAN controller

ASUS Remote GO! Utility

LAN

Audio

Realtek^®ALC892 8�channel high deﬁnition audio COD�C

�

Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit True BD Lossless Sound

DTS UltraPC II

(continues on the next page)

Z87-A speciﬁcations summary

Audio

DTS Connect

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

Optical S/PDIF out ports at rear I/O

Intel^®Z87 Express Chipset - supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

USB

2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at mid-board for front panel support

4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at rear panel (blue)

8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 2 ports at rear panel)

ASUS Exclusive

features

ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 2 with DIGI+ VRM

ASUS DIGI+ VRM

Industry leading digital 8 phase power design

ASUS DIGI+ VRM utility

ASUS EPU

EPU, EPU switch

ASUS TPU

Auto Tuning, TurboV, GPU Boost, TPU switch

ASUS Fan Xpert 2

�

Featuring Fan Auto Tuning function for optimized speed control.

ASUS Remote GO!

Remote GO! functions: Cloud GO!, DLNA Media Hub, Remote

Desktop, File Transfer

“Wi-Fi GO! & NFC Remote” for portable Smartphone/Tablet, supporting

iOS and Android systems.

ASUS Exclusive Features:

Network iControl featuring instant network bandwidth domination for

top network program in use

USB 3.0 Boost featuring speedy USB 3.0 transmission

Disk Unlocker

AI Suite 3

Anti Surge

MemOK!

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:

ASUS Fan Xpert 2

ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-sink solution

ASUS EZ DIY

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-Slot

ASUS Q-DIMM

ASUS Q-Connector*

The 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit is for retailer version only.

(continues on the next page)

vii

Z87-A speciﬁcations summary

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: Memory voltage control at 0.01V increment

vPCH: Chipset voltage control at 0.0125V increment

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)

�

BCLK/PCI� frequency tuning from 8��z up to ��z at �.1��z

increment

Overclocking Protection

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

Rear Panel I/O Ports

1 x PS/2 Keyboard/mouse combo port

1 x Mini DisplayPort

1 x HDMI port

1 x DVI

1 x RGB

1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port

1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)

2 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

8-channel Audio I/O ports

Internal I/O

connectors

1 x 19-pin USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB ports

3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB ports

6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (6 x yellow)

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

(PWM mode) CPU coolers control

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

3 x 4-pin Chassis Fan connectors

1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)

1 x S/PDIF out header

1 x TPM connector

1 x Serial (COM) port connector

1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector

1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector

System Panel (Q-Connector)

1 x MemOK! button

1 x Clear CMOS jumper

1 x DirectKey button

1 x DRCT (DirectKey) connector

1 x EPU switch

1 x TPU switch (advanced two-stage adjustments)

(continues on the next page)

viii

Z87-A speciﬁcations summary

BIOS features

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

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

�, �y Favorites, Quick Note, Last �odiﬁed Log, F12 PrintScreen function,

F3 Shortcut functions, and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect)

memory information

Manageability

Accessories

WfM 2.0, DMI 2.7, WOL by PME, PXE

2 x Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s cables

1 x ASUS SLI bridge connector*

ASUS I/O shield

2 in 1 Q-connector**

User’s manual

(Optional) SLI bridge connector is only available for the standard Z87-A edition.

** The 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit is for retailer version only.

Support DVD

contents

Drivers

ASUS Utilities

ASUS Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

ATX form factor: 12 in. x 8.8 in. (30.5 cm x 22.35 cm)

Form factor

Speciﬁcations are subject to change without notice.

Chapter 1

Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Thank you for buying an ASUS^®Z87-A motherboard!

Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items

in your motherboard package. Refer to the speciﬁcation list on page ix for the list of

accessories.

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

1.1

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.

1-1

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2

Motherboard overview

Before you install the motherboard, study the conﬁguration of your chassis to ensure that the

motherboard ﬁts into it.

Ensure that you unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard.

Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1.2.1

Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct

orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in

the image below.

1.2.2

Screw holes

Place eight 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.

Place this side towards the

rear of the chassis

1-2

ASUS Z87-A

1.2.3

Motherboard layout

1-3

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.2.4

Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots

Page

1-32

1-4

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

2. LGA1150 CPU socket

3. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin

CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3)

1-34

4. DDR3 DIMM slots

1-8

5. MemOK! button

1-24

1-35

1-33

1-27

1-26

1-38

1-39

1-36

1-29

1-35

1-25

1-37

1-38

1-37

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

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

8. EPU switch

9. TPU switch

10. Direct connector (2-pin DRCT)

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

12. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112, USB1314)

13. Clear CMOS jumper

14. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

15. DirectKey button

16. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM)

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

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

1.3

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.

1-4

ASUS Z87-A

•

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 (R�A) 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.

1.3.1

Installing the CPU

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.

1-5

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Apply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before you install the

heatsink and fan, if necessary.

1-6

ASUS Z87-A

1.3.2

Installing the CPU heatsink and fan

To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

1-7

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.4

System memory

Overview

1.4.1

The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual In-line Memory Modules

(DIMM) slots.

A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR

or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.

Recommended memory conﬁgurations

Install one memory module in slot A2 ﬁrst as a single�channel operation.

1-8

ASUS Z87-A

1.4.2

Memory conﬁgurations

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

sockets.

•

You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps

the total size of the lower�sized channel for the dual�channel conﬁguration. 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 2.5 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory

frequency adjustment.

•

For system stability, use a more efﬁcient memory cooling system to support a full

memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

�emory modules with memory frequency higher than 21��z and their

corresponding timing or the loaded X�P proﬁle is not the J�D�C 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.

1-9

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Z87-A Motherboard Qualiﬁed Vendors Lists (QVL)

DDR3 2800(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip

NO.

Timing

Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

•

G.SKILL

APACER

CORSAIR

F3-2800C11Q-16GTXD(XMP)

F3-2800C12Q-32GTXD(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

32GB (4x8GB)

11-13-13-35

12-13-13-35

12-14-14-35

11-14-14-35

12-14-14-36

1.65

•

F3-2800C12Q-32GTXDG(XMP) 32GB (4x8GB)

•

78.BAGH5.AFD0C

8GB (2x4GB)

16GB (2x8GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

78.CAGH6.AFD0C

CMD16GX3M4A2800C11

CMD16GX3M4A2800C12

•

DDR3 2666(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/ Chip

Chip Timing

Voltage DIMM socket

support (Optional)

Brand NO.

•

APACER

78.BAGFF.AFC0C

78.CAGFF.AFD0C

16GB (4x4GB)

32GB (4x8GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

32GB (4x8GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

16GB (2x8GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

12-13-13-35

1.65

12-13-13-35

11-13-13-35

10-12-12-31

11-13-13-35

9-11-9-27

CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A2666C11

G.SKILL

GEIL

F3-2666C11Q-16GTXD(XMP)

F3-2666C10Q-16GTXD(XMP)

GOC332GB2666C11QC(XMP)

TXD34G2666HC11CBK

TEAM

TXD38G2666HC11CBK

G.SKILL

F3-2666CL10Q-16GBZHD(XMP)

DDR3 2600(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip

NO.

Timing

Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

ADATA

AX3U2600GW8G11-DG2

16GB (2x4GB)

11-13-13-35

1.65V

•

DDR3 2500(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip

NO.

Timing

Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

G.SKILL

F3-20000CL10Q-16GBZHD(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

10-11-11-31

1.65

•

1-10

ASUS Z87-A

DDR3 2400(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip Chip

Brand NO.

Timing

Voltage DIMM socket

support (Optional)

•

A-DATA

Apacer

AX3U2400GC4G10(XMP)

78.BAGFL.AFD0C(XMP)

783BAGF3.AFD0C(XMP)

CMGTX8(XMP)

4GB

10-12-12-31

11-12-12-30

11-11-11-30

10-12-10-30

10-12-12-31

1.65

8GB (2x4GB)

8GB (4x2GB)

16GB (2x8GB)

Apacer

CORSAIR

1.65

CMZ16GX3M2A2400C10

(Ver4.21)

CORSAIR

G.SKILL

GEIL

CMZ16GX3M4A2400C9R

(Ver4.13)(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

32GB (4x8GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

4G (2x2GB)

2400 9-11-11-31

10-12-12-31

11-11-11-31

9-11-9-28

1.65

•

F3-19200CL10Q-

32GBZHD(XMP)

F3-19200CL11Q-

16GBZHD(XMP)

F3-19200CL11Q-

16GBZHD(XMP)

F3-19200CL9D-

4GBPIS(XMP)

F3-19200CL9Q-

16GBZMD(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

8GB (4x2GB)

9-11-11-31

•

GOC316GB2400

C10QC(XMP)

10-11-11-30

11-11-11-30

11-13-11-30

GEIL

GOC316GB2400

C11QC(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX2400C11D3

K4/8GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX24C11K4/16X(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX24C11T2K2/8X(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX24C11T3K4/32X(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

32GB (4x8GB)

4GB (2x2GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

8GB

11-13-13-30

1.65

1.66

1.65

•

9-9-9-24

9-11-9-27

11-11-11-30

Patriot

Team

PVV34G2400C 9K(XMP)

PXD38G2400C 11K(XMP)

•

2400 11-11-11-30 1.65

TXD38G2400HC

10QBK(XMP)

10-12-12-31

1.65

DDR3 2200(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip

NO.

Timing

Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

•

G.SKILL

GEIL

F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP)

GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP)

GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

7-10-10-28

9-10-9-28

9-11-9-28

1.65

•

GEIL

•

1-11

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3 2133(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip Chip Timing

Brand NO.

Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

•

A-DATA

Apacer

AX3U2133XC4G10(XMP)

AX3U2133XW8G10(XMP)

78.BAGE4.AFD0C(XMP)

AHU04GFB33CAQ3R(XMP)

4GB

10-11-11-30

9-9-9-24

1.65

8GB

8GB (2x4GB)

4GB

Apacer

11-13-13-31

9-11-10-27

CORSAIR

CMD8GX3M2A2133C9

(Ver1.5)(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

1.5

CORSAIR

CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(Ver

7.1)(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

9-10-9-27

1.5

•

CORSAIR

G.SKILL

CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

64GB (8x8GB)

9-10-9-27

1.5

•

F3-17000CL11Q2-

64GBZLD(XMP)

11-11-11-30

G.SKILL

F3-17000CL9Q-

16GBXLD(XMP)

16GB (4x4GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

9-11-9-28

9-11-10-28

9-9-9-24

1.65

•

F3-17000CL9Q-

16GBZH(XMP)

F3-17066CL9D-

8GBPID(XMP)

F3-17066CL9Q-

16GBTDD(XMP)

9-9-9-24

G.SKILL

F3-2133C11Q-32GZL(XMP)

32GB (4x8GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

11-11-11-31

11-12-11-30

1.5

•

KINGSTON

KHX2133C11D3K4/

16GX(XMP)

1.65

KINGSTON

KHX2133C11D3T1K2/

16GX(XMP)

16GB (2x8GB)

9-9-9-24

1.6

•

KINGSTON

OCZ

KHX21C11T3FK8/64X(XMP)

OCZ3XTEP2133C 9LV4GK

PV316G213C1K (XMP)

64GB (8x8GB)

2GB

9-9-9-24

1.5

•

7-7-7-20

1.65

1.5

Patriot

Team

16GB (2x8GB)

4GB (2x2GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

11-11-11-30

9-11-9-27

•

PVV34G2133C9 K(XMP)

PXD38G2133C1 1K(XMP)

PXD38G2133C11 K(XMP)

1.66

1.65

1.5

9-9-9-24

2133 11-11-11-27

11-11-11-31

TLD38G2133HC11A BK(XMP) 8GB

1.65

Team

TXD34096M2133HC11A-

V(XMP)

4GB

1-12

ASUS Z87-A

DDR3 2000(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip NO.

Timing

Voltage DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

•

AEXEA

Apacer

Asint

AXA3ES2G2000LG28V(XMP)

AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V(XMP)

78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP)

2GB

1.65

4GB (2x2GB)

6GB (3x2GB)

4GB

1.65

•

9-9-9-27

•

SLA302G08-ML2HB(XMP)

Hynix

H5TQ2G83BF

RH9C

•

G.SKILL

GEIL

F3-16000CL9D-4GBRH(XMP)

F3-16000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP)

GUP34GB2000C9DC(XMP)

PV736G2000ELK(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

6GB (3x2GB)

12GB (3x4GB)

2GB

9-9-9-24

9-9-9-28

7-7-7-20

9-11-9-27

1.65

•

Patriot

PX7312G2000ELK(XMP)

SP002GBLYU200S02(XMP)

Silicon

Power

Team

TXD32048M2000C9(XMP)

TXD32048M2000C9-L(XMP)

2GB

Team

T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24

T3D1288LT-20 9-9-9-24

1.5

1.6

•

T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24

DDR3 1866(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip Timing

NO.

Voltage DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

CORSAIR

CMD16GX3M2A1866C9

(Ver5.29)(XMP)

16GB (2x8GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

32GB (4x8GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

32GB (4x8GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

1866 9-9-9-27

9-10-9-27

1.5

•

CMD16GX3M4A1866C9

(Ver4.13)(XMP)

•

CMD16GX3M4A1866C9

(Ver8.16)(XMP)

CMD8GX3M2A1866C9

(Ver4.13)(XMP)

CMD8GX3M2A1866C9

(Ver5.12)(XMP)

9-10-9-27

10-11-10-27

9-10-9-27

CMD8GX3M2A1866C9

(Ver8.16)(XMP)

CMT32GX3M4X1866C9(Ver3

.23)(XMP)

•

CMZ16GX3M4X1866C9R

(Ver8.16)(XMP)

CMZ16GX3M4X1866C9R(Ver

8.16)(XMP)

CMZ32GX3M4X1866C10

(Ver3.23)(XMP)

CMZ32GX3M4X1866C10(Ver

3.23)(XMP)

CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9

(Ver8.16)(XMP)

(continued on the next page)

1-13

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3 1866(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip Timing

NO.

Voltage DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

•

CORSAIR

CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

9-10-9-27

1.5

CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9G

(Ver5.12)(XMP)

1866 9-10-9-27

•

Crucial

BLE4G3D1869DE1XT0.16F

MD(XMP)

4GB

9-9-9-27

1.5

•

G.SKILL

F3-14900CL10Q2-

64GBZLD(XMP)

64GB (8x8GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

10-11-10-30

G.SKILL

KINGSTON

Patriot

F3-14900CL9D-8GBSR(XMP)

9-10-9-28

9-9-9-24

1.5

•

F3-14900CL9Q-16GBXL(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB)

F3-14900CL9Q-16GBZL(XMP) 16GB (4x4GB)

F3-14900CL9Q-8GBFLD(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB)

1.5

1.6

F3-1866C9Q-32GXM(XMP)

KHX1866C9D3K2/8GX(XMP)

PXD34G1866ELK(XMP)

PXD38G1866ELK(XMP)

TLD34G1866HC9KBK(XMP)

TLD38G1866HC10SBK(XMP)

32GB (4x8GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

4GB (2x2GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

4GB

9-10-9-28

1.5

1.65

1.5

9-9-9-24

Patriot

9-11-9-27

1866 9-10-9-27

9-11-9-27

10-11-10-30

Patriot

Team

1.5

Team

8GB

1.5

DDR3 1800(O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/ Chip

Chip

NO.

Timing

Voltage DIMM socket

support

Brand

(Optional)

G. SKILL

F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

9-9-9-24

1.6

•

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip NO.

Timing

Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

•

A-DATA

AMD

AD3U1600C2G11

AD3U1600C4G11

AD3U1600W4G11

AD3U1600W8G11

AE32G1609U1-U

AE34G1609U2-U

2GB

MICRON

A-DATA

AMD

D9PFJ

11-11-11-28

4GB

D9PFJ

4GB

3WCD-1211A

23EY4587MB6H

8GB

2GB

1.5

1.65

AMD

4GB

AMD

AP38G1608U

2K(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

9-9-9-28

Apacer

78.B1GE3.9L10C

78.B1GET.9K00C

4GB

Apacer

AM5D5908DEQSCK

1.65

•

AM5D6008BQQSCK 11-11-11-28

(continued on the next page)

1-14

ASUS Z87-A

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip NO.

Timing

Voltage

DIMM socket

support

(Optional)

Apacer

78.C1GET.9K10C

8GB

Apacer

AM5D6008 11-11-

•

BQQSCK

11-31

Apacer

AHU04GFA60C9Q1D(XMP)

AHU04GFA60C9Q3R(XMP)

4GB

9-9-9-27

1.65

•

11-11-

11-28

Apacer

Asint

AHU08GFA60CBT3R(XMP)

SLA302G08-EGG1C(XMP)

8GB

4GB

9-9-9-24

9-9-9-27

•

Asint

302G08-

GG1C

Asint

SLA302G08-EGJ1C(XMP)

SLA302G08-EGN1C

SLB304G08-EGN1B

SLZ302G08-EGN1C

SLZ3128M8-EGJ1D(XMP)

AQ12M64B8BKK0S

4GB

8GB

2GB

4GB

Asint

302G08-

GJ1C

9-9-9-27

•

Asint

ASint

302G08-

GN1C

Asint

ASint

304G08-

GN1B

Asint

ASint

302G08-

GN1C

Asint

3128M8-

GJ1D

ATP

SAMSUNG

K4B2G

08460

1.5

1.65

•

CORSAIR

Crucial

CMD16GX3M2A1600C9

(Ver8.21)(XMP)

16GB

(2x8GB)

9-9-9-24

CMD8GX3M2A1600C8

(Ver5.12)(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

1600

8-8-8-24

•

CMD8GX3M2A1600C9

(Ver2.12)(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

9-9-9-24

CMG4GX3M2A1600C6

4GB

(2x2GB)

6-6-6-18

CML16GX3M4X1600C8(Ver

2.12)(XMP)

16GB

(4x4GB)

Heat-Sink 1.5

Package

CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP)

CMX6GX3M3C1600C7(XMP)

6GB

(3x2GB)

8-8-8-24

7-8-7-20

9-9-9-24

1.65

6GB

(3x2GB)

1.65

1.5

6GB

(3x2GB)

CMX8GX3M2A1600C9

(Ver3.19)(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

CMZ16GX3M2A1600C10

(Ver.3.24)(XMP)

16GB

(2x8GB)

10-10-

10-27

CMZ16GX3M4A1600C9(XMP)

16GB

(4x4GB)

9-9-9-24

1.5

CMZ32GX3M4X1600C10

(Ver2.2)(XMP)

32GB

(4x8GB)

10-10-

10-27

1.5

CMZ8GX3M2A1600C8(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

8-8-8-24

9-9-9-24

8-8-8-24

1.5

CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

1.5

CMZ8GX3M4X1600C9(Ver

2.12)(XMP)

8GB

(4x2GB)

1.5

HX3X12G1600C9(XMP)

12GB

(6x2GB)

1.6

BL12864BN1608 .8FF(XMP)

2GB

(2x1GB)

1.65

1.5

Crucial

BLT4G3D1608DT1TX0.16F

M(XMP)

4GB

(continued on the next page)

1-15

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip NO.

Timing

Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

EK Memory

Elixir

EKM324L28BP8-

I16(XMP)

4GB (2x2GB)

•

EKM324L28BP8-

I16(XMP)

•

M2X2G64CB88 G7N- 2GB

DG(XMP)

Elixir

N2CB2G80GN- 9-9-9-28

Elixir

M2X4G64CB8HG

5N-DG(XMP)

4GB

Elixir

N2CB2G80GN- 9-9-9-28

Elixir

M2X8G64CB8HB

5N-DG(XMP)

8GB

Elixir

N2CB4G80BN- 9-9-9-28

1.5

1.6

1.35

1.5

1.25

1.5

1.6

G.SKILL

G.Skill

F3-12800CL7D-

8GBRH(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

32GB (4x8GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

4GB (2x2GB)

7-8-7-24

8-8-8-24

9-9-9-24

•

F3-12800CL7Q-

16GBXH(XMP)

F3-12800CL8D-

8GBECO(XMP)

F3-12800CL9D-

8GBRL(XMP)

•

F3-12800CL9D-

8GBSR2(XMP)

F3-12800CL9Q-

16GBXL(XMP)

F3-12800CL9Q-

16GBZL(XMP)

G.SKILL

GEIL

F3-1600C9Q-

32GXM(XMP)

GET316GB160

0C9QC(XMP)

9-9-9-28

7-7-7-24

GEIL

GUP34GB160

0C7DC(XMP)

GoodRam

KINGMAX

GR1600D364L9/2G

2GB

GoodRam

KINGMAX

GF1008KC-JN

N/A

•

FLGE85F-

C8KL9A(XMP)

9-9-9-28

KINGMAX

FLGF65F-

C8KL9A(XMP)

4GB

KINGMAX

N/A

9-9-9-28

•

KINGSTON

KHX1600C9D3K3/

12GX(XMP)

12GB (3x4GB)

6GB (3x2GB)

16GB (4x4GB)

24GB (6x4GB)

32GB (8x4GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

1.65

1.35

1.5

KHX1600C9D3K3/

12GX(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3K3/

6GX(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3K3/

6GX(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3K4/

16GX(XMP)

9-9-9-24

KHX1600C9D3K6/

24GX(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3K8/

32GX(XMP)

9-9-9-27

KHX1600C9D3LK2/

8GX(XMP)

9-9-9-24

KHX1600C9D3P1K2/ 8GB (2x4GB)

KHX1600C9D3T

1BK3/12GX(XMP)

12GB (3x4GB)

1.65

KHX1600C9D3T1K3/ 6GB (3x2GB)

6GX(XMP)

•

(continued on the next page)

1-16

ASUS Z87-A

DDR3 1600 MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip NO.

Timing

Voltage

DIMM socket

support (Optional)

KINGSTON

KHX16C10B1K2/

16X(XMP)

16GB

(2x8GB)

1.5

•

KHX16C9K2/16

KHX16C9P1K2/16

KVR16N11/4

16GB

(2x8GB)

1333-9-

9-9-24

•

16GB

(2x8GB)

•

Hynix

H5TQ2G83CFRPBC

1.5

•

KINGTIGER KTG2G1600PG3(XMP) 2GB

MICRON

Mushkin

OCZ

MT16JTF1G64AZ-

1G6D1

8GB

4GB

2GB

MICRON

D9PBC

1.5

MT16KTF51264AZ-

1G6M1

MICRON

D9PFJ

•

MT8KTF25664AZ-

1G6M1

MICRON

D9PFJ

•

996805(XMP)

4GB

(2x2GB)

6-8-6-

1.65

1.5

998805(XMP)

6GB

(3x2GB)

6-8-6-

OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4GB

(2x2GB)

8-8-8

Patriot

PGD316G1600E

LK(XMP)

16GB

(2x8GB)

•

PGD316G1600E

LK(XMP)

16GB

(2x8GB)

9-9-

9-24

PGD38G1600EL

K(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

9-9-9-

1.65

1.5

PGD38G1600E

LK(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

9-9-9-

PGS34G1600LLKA

4GB

(2x2GB)

7-7-7-

1.7

•

PGS34G1600LL KA2

4GB

(2x2GB)

8-8-8-

1.7

PV316G160C9Q

KRD(XMP)

16GB

(4x4GB)

9-9-9-

1.5

PV38G160C9KR

D(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

9-9-9-

1.5

PVV38G1600L

LK(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

8-9-8-

1.65

PX7312G1600L

LK(XMP)

12GB

(3x4GB)

8-9-8-

PXD38G1600LL

K(XMP)

8GB

(2x4GB)

1600 8-

9-8-24

PSC

AL9F8L93B-GN2E

ALAF8L93B-GN2E

SMD-4G68HP-16KZ

SMD-4G68NG-16KK

4GB

8GB

4GB

2GB

PSC

A3P4GF3BLF

•

PSC

A3P4GF3BLF

SanMax

Hynix

H5TQ2G83BFRPBC

J2108BDBG-GN-F

20YT5NG

1.5

ELPIDA

S-POWER

Silicon

Power

SP002GBLTU16

0V02(XMP)

9-11-

11-28

1.5

Silicon

Power

SP004GBLTU16

0V02(XMP)

4GB

8GB

S-POWER

Hynix

20YT5NG

9-9-9-

1.5

•

Team

TXD34096M1600HC9-

D(XMP)

H5TC2G83BFRH9A

TK963EBF3

9-9-9-

Transcend

JM1600KLH-

8G(626633)

Transcend

SAMSUNG

TS1GLK64V

6H(620945)

K4B4G0846B

1-17

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip Brand Chip NO.

Timing

Voltage DIMM socket

support (Optional)

ACTICA

AMD

ACT1GHU64B

8F1333S

1GB

2GB

SAMSUNG

Micron

K4B1G0846F

•

ACT1GHU72C

8G1333S

K4B1G0846F(ECC)

D9KPT

•

ACT2GHU64B

8G1333M

ACT2GHU64B

8G1333S

SAMSUNG

Micron

K4B1G0846F

ACT2GHU72D

8G1333M

D9KPT(ECC)

ACT2GHU72D8 2GB

G1333S

SAMSUNG

Hynix

K4B1G0846F(ECC)

H5TQ2G83AFR

H5TQ2G83AFR(ECC)

23EY4587MB3H

ACT4GHU64B8 4GB

H1333H

ACT4GHU72D8 4GB

H1333H

Hynix

AE32G1339U1- 2GB

AMD

1.5

AMD

AE34G1339U2- 4GB

AMD

Apacer

78.A1GC6.9L1

2GB

4GB

Apacer

AM5D5808FEQSBG

AM5D5908CEHSBG

•

78.B1GDE.9L

10C

Asint

ATP

SLA302G08-

EDJ1C

2GB

4GB

ASint

302G08-DJ1C

•

SLZ302G08-

EDJ1C

ASint

302G08-DJ1C

AQ12M72E8B

KH9S

SAMSUNG

K4B2G0846C(ECC)

BUFFALO

CORSAIR

D3U1333-1G

D3U1333-2G

D3U1333-4G

1GB

2GB

4GB

Elpida

NANYA

J1108BFBG-DJ-F

NT5CB256M8BN-CG

N/A

•

CMV4GX3M2A 4GB (2x2GB)

1333C9

9-9-9-24

CORSAIR

CMV8GX3M2A 8GB (2x4GB)

1333C9

N/A

•

CMX8GX3M1A 8GB

1333C9

1.5

(Ver2.2)

CORSAIR

CMX8GX3M1A 8GB

1333C9

9-9-9-24

1.5

•

(Ver3.23)

CORSAIR

EK Memory

G.SKILL

CMX8GX3M2

A1333C9(XMP)

8GB (2x4GB)

4GB (2x2GB)

9-9-9-24

1.5

•

TW3X4G133

3C9A

EKM324L28B

P8-I13

•

F3-

10600CL9D-

4GBNT

G.SKILL

D3 128M8CE9 2GB

9-9-9-24

1.5

G.SKILL

F3-

10666CL9D-

8GBRL

8GB (2x4GB)

9-9-9-24

1.5

•

(continued on the next page)

1-18

ASUS Z87-A

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip Brand Chip NO.

Timing

Voltage DIMM socket

support (Optional)

G.SKILL

GEIL

F3-10666CL9D-

8GBRL

8GB (2x4GB)

9-9-9-24

1.5

1.3

1.5

•

F3-10666CL9D-

8GBXL

9-9-9-24

•

GB34GB1333C7DC 4GB (2x2GB)

GEIL

GL1L128M8

8BA15FW

7-7-7-24

GEIL

GET316GB1333

C9QC

16GB (4x4GB)

4GB (2x2GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

2GB

9-9-9-24

GEIL

GG34GB1333C

9DC

GEIL

GL1L128M8

8BA115FW

9-9-9-24

GEIL

GG34GB1333C

9DC

GEIL

GL1L128M

88BA15B

9-9-9-24

GEIL

GVP34GB1333

C9DC

9-9-9-24

GEIL

GVP38GB1333

C9DC

9-9-9-24

GoodRam

Hynix

GR1333D364L9/

Qimonda

Hynix

IDSH1G-03A

1F1C-13H

HMT125U6TFR8A- 2GB

H5TC1G83T

INNODISK

KINGMAX

KINGSTON

KINGTIGER

M3UN-2GHJB C09

M3UN-4GHJA C09

FLFE85F-B8KL9

FLFE85F-C8KL9

FLFE85F-C8KM9

FLFF65F-C8KL9

FLFF65F-C8KM9

2GB

4GB

2GB

4GB

8GB

4GB

2GB

Hynix

H5TQ2G83C

FRH9C

9-9-9-24

Hynix

H5TQ2G83C

FRH9C

9-9-9-24

KINGMAX

Kingmax

KINGMAX

Kingmax

Elpida

ELPIDA

KFB8FNLXL-

BNF-15A

KFC8FNLBF-

GXX-12A

KFC8FNLXF-

DXX-15A

KFC8FNMXF-

BXX-15A

KFC8FNLBF-

GXX-12A

KFC8FNLXF-

DXX-15A

KFC8FNMXF-

BXX-15A

KVR1333D3

E9S/4G

J2108ECSE-

DJ-F

1.5

KVR1333D3

N9H/4G

J2108BDBG-

GN-F

KVR1333D3N

9H/8G

J4208EASE-

DJ-F

9-9-9-24

KVR13N9S8H/4

J4208BBBG-

GN-F

F10DA2T1680

KINGTIGER KTG1333P

S1208NST-

KINGTIGER

Mach Xtreme

KTG2G1333 PG3

2GB

•

MXD3U1333 16GQ 16GB (4x4GB)

MXD3V1333 2GS

2GB

Mach

Xtreme

C2S46D30-

D313

MICRON

MT8JTF25664AZ-

1G4M1

2GB

MICRON

D9PFJ

•

(continued on the next page)

1-19

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3 1333 MHz capability

Vendors

Part No.

Size

SS/

Chip

Brand

Chip NO.

Timing

Voltage DIMM socket

support (Optional)

OCZ

OCZ3G1333L

V4GK

4GB (2x2GB)

8GB (2x4GB)

9-9-9

1.65

1.5

•

OCZ

OCZ3G1333L

V8GK

•

OCZ

OCZ3G1333L

V8GK

OCZ

OCZ3RPR1333 8GB (2x4GB)

C9LV8GK

Patriot

PG38G1333EL

(XMP)

8GB

•

PGD316G1333 16GB (2x8GB)

ELK(XMP)

9-9-9-24

7-7-7-20

1.5

PGS34G1333L

LKA

4GB (2x2GB)

1.7

Patriot

PSD32G13332

2GB

Prtriot

PM128M8D3BU-15

•

RiDATA

C304627CB1A

G22Fe

RiDATA

C304627CB1AG22Fe

RiDATA

E304459CB1A

G32Cf

4GB

RiDATA

E304459CB1AG32Cf

•

SAMSUNG

M378B5273CH 4GB

0-CH9

SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C

Silicon

Power

SP001GBLTE

133S01

1GB

NANYA

NT5CB128M8AN-CG

Silicon

Power

SP001GBLTU1 1GB

33S02

S-POWER

NANYA

10YT3E5

Silicon

Power

SP002GBLTE1

33S01

2GB

NT5CB128M8AN-CG

20YT3NG

Silicon

Power

SP002GBLTU1 2GB

33V02

S-POWER

Team

9-9-9-24

Silicon

Power

SP004GBLTU1 4GB

33V02

20YT3NG

9-9-9-24

Team

TED34096M1

333HC9

4GB

8GB

T3D2568LT-13

TK963EBF3

D9QBJ

Transcend

JM1333KLH-8

G(623654)

Transcend

MICRON

TS1GLK64V3

H(620053)

1-20

ASUS Z87-A

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

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

conﬁguration. We suggest that you install the module into A2 slot.

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

as one pair of Dual�channel memory conﬁguration. We suggest that you install the

modules into slots A2 and B2 for better compatibility.

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

two pairs of Dual�channel memory conﬁguration.

•

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.

2.3.4

DIMM installation

1-21

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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:

Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and

make the necessary hardware settings for the card.

Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).

Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later

use.

Align the card connector with the slot and press ﬁrmly until the card is completely

seated on the slot.

Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.

Replace the system cover.

1-22

ASUS Z87-A

1.5.2

Conﬁguring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, conﬁgure it by adjusting the software settings.

Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for

information on BIOS setup.

Assign an IRQ to the card.

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. Otherwise, conﬂicts will arise between the two PCI

groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.

1.5.3

PCI Express x1 slot

This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that

comply with the PCI �xpress speciﬁcations.

1.5.4

PCI Express x16 slot

This motherboard has a PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot that supports PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16

graphic cards complying with the PCI �xpress speciﬁcations.

In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0/2.0 x 16_1 slot (yellow) for a PCIe x16 graphics

card to get better performance.

Slot No. Expansion Slots

PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot

PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot

PCI_1

PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot

PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slot

PCI_2

PCIe 2.0 x16_3 slot

1-23

Chapter 1: Product introduction

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

Intel PCH SATA

controller #0

–

shared

–

Intel PCH SATA

controller #1

–

shared

–

SMBUS Controller

Thermal Controller

XHCI

–

shared

–

shared

–

shared

–

EHCI #0

–

shared

EHCI #1

–

shared

–

PCIE x16_1

PCIE x16_2

PCIE x16_3

PCIE x1_1

PCIE x1_2

PCI1

shared

–

shared

–

shared

–

shared

–

shared

–

PCI2

shared

–

Realtek 8111GR LAN

ASMedia 1083

shared

–

1.6

Onboard buttons

Onboard 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.

MemOK! button

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

boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously. Press

and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic

memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.

1-24

ASUS Z87-A

•

Refer to section 1.7 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 �emory QVL (Qualiﬁed 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.

DirectKey button

This feature allows your system to go to the BIOS Setup program with the press of

a button. With DirectKey, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press

the <Del> key during POST. It also allows you to turn on or turn off your system and

conveniently enter the BIOS during boot-up.

Ensure to save your data before using the DirectKey button.

1-25

Chapter 1: Product introduction

•

When the system is on and you press the DirectKey button, your system will shut

down. Press the DirectKey button again or the Power-on button to reboot and enter

the BIOS directly.

•

Turn off your system using the power-on button to allow your system to go through

POST (without entering the BIOS) when you reboot your system.

Refer to section 2.8 Boot Menu for details about setting the DirectKey default

function.

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.

•

When the TPU switch is set to Enabled (TPU_II: CPU BCLK and Ratio Boost), the

system automatically adjusts the base clock rate (BLCK) and the CPU ratio for a more

enhanced performance.

•

The TPU LED (TPU_LED) near the TPU switch lights up when the TPU switch is

enabled. Refer to section 1.7 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the TPU LED.

If you enable this switch under Windows^®OS environment, the TPU function will be

activated after the next system bootup.

You may use the 4�Way Optimization and TPU feature in the AI Suite � application,

adjust the BIOS setup program or enable the TPU switch at the same time. However,

the system will use the last setting you have made.

1-26

ASUS Z87-A

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.

•

The EPU LED (OLED2) near the EPU switch lights up when the EPU switch is

enabled. Refer to section 1.7 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the EPU LED.

If you enable this switch under Windows^®OS environment, the EPU function will be

activated after the next system bootup.

You may change the EPU settings in the software application or BIOS setup program

and enable the EPU function at the same time. However, the system will use the last

setting you have made.

1.7

Onboard LEDs

EPU LED

The EPU LED lights up when the EPU switch is enabled.

1-27

Chapter 1: Product introduction

TPU LED

The TPU LED lights up when the TPU switch is enabled.

POST State LEDs

The POST State LEDs provide the status of these key components during POST

(Power-On-Self Test): CPU, memory modules, VGA card, and hard disk drives. If an

error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit up until the problem is solved.

1-28

ASUS Z87-A

1.8

Jumpers

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:

Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.

Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3 for

about 5-10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.

Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.

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

data.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default

position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

•

If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper

again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the

battery.

You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For

system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature.

Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter

settings to default values.

•

Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R. function. You

must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before

rebooting the system.

1-29

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.9

Connectors

1.9.1

Rear panel connectors

1. PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port

2. Optical S/PDIF Out port

3. VGA port

7. Mini DisplayPort

8. HDMI port

9. DVI port

4. USB 3.0 5 and 6

10. USB 3.0 3 and 4

11. Audio I/O ports**

5. LAN (RJ-45) port*

6. USB 2.0 7 and 8

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

•

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 ﬁrmware for better compatibility.

1-30

ASUS Z87-A

•

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)):

�

�ini DisplayPort: 5�� z

DVI�D: 165 ��z

RGB: 18� ��z

�D�I port: �� z

* LAN port LED indications

Activity Link LED

ACT/LINK

LED

SPEED

LED

Speed LED

Status

Description

No link

Status Description

Off

10 Mbps connection

Orange

LAN port

Linked

Orange 100 Mbps connection

Green 1 Gbps connection

Orange (Blinking)

Data activity

Orange (Blinking

then steady)

Ready to wake up

from S5 mode

** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conﬁguration

Port

Headset

4-channel

6-channel

8-channel

2-channel

Light Blue Line In

Line In

Lime

Line Out

Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Front Speaker Out

Mic In

Pink

Mic In

Orange

Black

Gray

–

Center/Subwoofer

Rear Speaker Out

–

Center/Subwoofer

Rear Speaker Out

Side Speaker Out

Rear Speaker Out

–

Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other

audio sources.

Line Out port (lime). This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In the 4, 6, and

8�channel conﬁgurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.

Microphone port (pink). This port connects to a microphone.

Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects to a center/subwoofer speakers.

Rear speaker out port (black). This port connects to a tape recorder, CD and DVD

player, or other audio sources.

Side speaker out port (gray). This port connects to a side speaker in an 8-channel

audio conﬁguration.

To conﬁgure an 8�channel audio output, use a chassis with �D audio module in the front

panel to support 8-channel audio output.

1-31

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.9.2

Internal connectors

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.� (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 conﬁguring a

system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or

may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

•

If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with

1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.

If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,

refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.

com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.

1-32

ASUS Z87-A

Intel^®Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6 [yellow])

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

conﬁguration with the Intel^®Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel^®Z87

chipset.

1-33

Chapter 1: Product introduction

CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors

(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 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. Insufﬁcient air ﬂow

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.

1-34

ASUS Z87-A

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 �.� module, you can enjoy all the beneﬁts of

USB 3.0 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, 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.

•

These connectors are based on x�CI speciﬁcation. 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.

TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

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

store keys, digital certiﬁcates, passwords, and data. A TP� system also helps enhance

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

TPM module is purchased separately.

1-35

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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.� speciﬁcation that supports up to

480 Mbps connection speed.

Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the

motherboard!

You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q�Connector (USB, blue) ﬁrst, and

then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports

front panel USB ports.

•

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

•

These connectors are based on x�CI speciﬁcation. We recommend you to install the

related driver to fully use the USB 2.0 ports under Windows^®7.

1-36

ASUS Z87-A

Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM)

The connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to the

connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

The serial port bracket (COM) is purchased separately.

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.

1-37

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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�deﬁnition front panel audio module to this

connector to avail of the motherboard’s high�deﬁnition audio capability.

If you want to connect a high�deﬁnition 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].

10. Direct 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.

1-38

ASUS Z87-A

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

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

•

System power LED (2-pin PLED)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED

cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system

power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.

Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)

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

to this connector. The ID� L�D lights up or ﬂashes when data is read from or written to

the HDD.

•

System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)

This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker

allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

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

This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns

the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS

settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON

turns the system OFF.

•

Reset button (2-pin RESET)

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without

turning off the system power.

To install ASUS Q-Connector

1-39

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.10

Software support

1.10.1

Installing an operating system

•

This motherboard supports Windows^®8 32/64-bit and Windows^®7 32/64-bit operating

systems (OS).

Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented

in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed

information.

1.10.2

Support DVD information

The support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software

applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.

The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the

ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates.

Running Support DVD

Place the support DVD into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if

Autorun is enabled in your computer. Click each menu tab and select the items you want to install.

The Manual menu contains

the list of supplementary user

manuals. Click an item to open

the folder of the user manual.

The Drivers menu shows the available

device drivers if the system detects

installed devices. Install the necessary

drivers to use the devices.

The AHCI/RAID driver

contains the RAID/

AHCI driver disk.

Click the Contact

tab to display the

ASUS contact

information.

The Utilities

menu shows the

applications and

other software that

the motherboard

supports.

Click an icon

to display DVD/

motherboard

information

Click an item

to install

If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to

locate the ﬁle ASS�TUP.�X� from the BIN folder. Double�click the ASSETUP.EXE to run

the DVD.

1-40

ASUS Z87-A

Chapter 2:

BIOS information

Chapter 2

BIOS information

2.1

Updating BIOS

The ASUS website publishes the latest BIOS versions to provide enhancements on system

stability, compatibility, or 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 in the system’s failure to boot. Carefully follow the

instructions of this chapter to update your BIOS if necessary.

Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS ﬁle for this

motherboard.

The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard BIOS setup program.

EZ Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows^®environment.

ASUS �Z Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a USB ﬂash drive.

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or a

USB ﬂash drive when the BIOS ﬁle fails or gets corrupted.

ASUS BIOS Updater: Updates and back ups the BIOS in DOS environment using the

motherboard support DVD and a USB ﬂash disk drive.

2.1.1

EZ Update

The EZ Update is a utility that allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows^®

environment.

•

EZ Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an ISP

(Internet Service Provider).

This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.

2-1

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.1.2

ASUS EZ Flash 2

The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based

utility or a bootable ﬂoppy disk.

Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS ﬁle from the ASUS website at

www.asus.com.

Insert the USB ﬂash disk that contains the latest BIOS ﬁle to the USB port.

Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select

ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.

Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive ﬁeld.

Press the Up/Down arrow keys to ﬁnd the USB ﬂash disk that contains the latest BIOS,

and then press <Enter>.

Press <Tab> to switch to the Folder Info ﬁeld.

Press the Up/Down arrow keys to ﬁnd the BIOS ﬁle, and then press <�nter> to perform

the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.

•

This function supports USB ﬂash disks with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.

•

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system

boot failure!

2-2

ASUS Z87-A

2.1.3

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS � is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS ﬁle

when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS

ﬁle using the motherboard support DVD or a USB ﬂash drive that contains the updated BIOS

ﬁle.

•

Before using this utility, rename the BIOS ﬁle in the removable device into Z87A.CAP.

The BIOS ﬁle in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS ﬁle

published on the ASUS ofﬁcial website. If you want to use the newer BIOS ﬁle,

download the ﬁle at support.asus.com and save it to an USB ﬂash drive.

Recovering the BIOS

Turn on the system.

Insert the support DVD to 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 enters ASUS �Z Flash 2 utility automatically.

The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS setting. To ensure

system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press <F5> to load default

BIOS values.

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause

system boot failure!

2-3

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.1.4

ASUS BIOS Updater

The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also

allows you to copy the current BIOS ﬁle that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or

gets corrupted during the updating process.

The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may

not be same as shown.

Before updating BIOS

Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB ﬂash drive in FAT�2/16 format and

single partition.

Download the latest BIOS ﬁle and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at

http://support.asus.com and save them on the USB ﬂash drive.

•

NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS ﬁle and BIOS

Updater to a hard disk drive or USB ﬂash drive in NTFS format.

Do not save the BIOS ﬁle to a ﬂoppy disk due to low disk capacity.

Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).

Booting the system in DOS environment

Insert the USB ﬂash drive with the latest BIOS ﬁle and BIOS Updater to the USB port.

Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo

Please select boot device:

appears, press <F8> to show the BIOS Boot

Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into

the optical drive and select the optical drive as the

boot device.

SATA: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

USB XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

UEFI: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Enter Setup

↑ and ↓ to move selection

ENTER to select boot device

ESC to boot using defaults

When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by

pressing the item number.

At the FreeDOS prompt, type d:and press <Enter> to switch the disk from Drive C

(optical drive) to Drive D (USB ﬂash drive).

Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!

C:\>d:

D:\>

2-4

ASUS Z87-A

Updating the BIOS ﬁle

To update the BIOS ﬁle using BIOS Updater

At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /gand press <Enter>.

D:\>bupdater /pc /g

The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.

ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30 [2013/02/22]

FLASH TYPE:

MX1C 25L1065A

Current ROM

Update ROM

BOARD:UNKNOWN

VER: UNKNOWN

DATE: UNKNOWN

BOARD:

VER:

Z87-A

0204

01/01/2013

DATE:

PATH:

A:\

Z87A.CAP

2097152 2013-02-22 17:30:48

Note

[Enter] Select or Load

[Tab] Switch

[B] Backup

[V] Drive Info

[Esc] Exit

[Up/Down/Home/End] Move

�.

Press <Tab> to switch between screen ﬁelds and use the <Up/Down/�ome/�nd> keys

to select the BIOS ﬁle and press <�nter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS ﬁle

and prompts you to conﬁrm BIOS update.

Are you sure to update BIOS?

Yes

Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS

Updater. Restart your computer.

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot

failure!

•

For BIOS Updater version 1.30 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS

prompt after updating BIOS.

Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.

Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu.

�nsure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS ﬁle if you have

disconnected them.

2-5

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.2

BIOS setup program

Use the BIOS Setup to update the BIOS or conﬁgure 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 ﬁrst two options.

•

The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and

may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the

mouse to control the BIOS setup program.

If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default

settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized

Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey <F5>. See section 2.9 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 1.8 Jumpers for information

on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear RTC RAM.

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.

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ASUS Z87-A

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 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 2.7 Boot menu for details.

Exits the BIOS setup program

Displays the CPU/motherboard

temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage

output, CPU/chassis/power fan speed

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

Selects the boot

device priority

Loads optimized

default settings

Displays the selected

shortcut menus

Displays the Advanced

mode menus

Displays the system properties of the

selected mode on the right hand side

Selects the boot

device priority

•

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.

2-7

Chapter 2: BIOS information

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

Menu bar

General help

Back button

Menu items

Submenu item

Conﬁguration ﬁelds

Last modiﬁed

settings

Pop-up window

Navigation keys

Scroll bar

Quick note

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.

Main

For changing the basic system conﬁguration

For changing the overclocking settings

For changing the advanced system settings

Ai Tweaker

Advanced

For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the

fan settings.

Monitor

Boot

Tool

Exit

For changing the system boot conﬁguration

For conﬁguring options for special functions

For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

2-8

ASUS Z87-A

Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the speciﬁc items for that menu. For example,

selecting Main shows the Main menu items.

The other items (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 <�nter> to display a pop�up window with the conﬁguration

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 ﬁt 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.

Conﬁguration ﬁelds

These ﬁelds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user�conﬁgurable, you can

change the value of the ﬁeld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not

user�conﬁgurable.

A conﬁgurable ﬁeld is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a ﬁeld, 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.

2-9

Chapter 2: BIOS information

Last Modiﬁed button

This button shows the items that you last modiﬁed and saved in BIOS Setup.

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 frequently-used BIOS items to My Favorites:

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

the pointer to the item.

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 Favorite page:

•

Items with submenu options

User-managed items such as language and boot order

Conﬁguration items such as �emory SPD Information, system time and date.

2-10

ASUS Z87-A

2.4

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.

2.4.1

System Language [English]

Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options.

Conﬁguration options: [�nglish] [Français] [Español] [Deutsch] [Pyccкий] [日本語] [繁��

文

][簡��]

2.4.2

System Date

Allows you to set the system date.

2.4.3

System Time

Allows you to set the system time.

2.4.4

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 1.8 Jumpers for information on how to

erase the RTC RAM.

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.

2-11

Chapter 2: BIOS information

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:

�.

Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

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

Conﬁrm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

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

<Enter>.

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

Conﬁrm the password when prompted.

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

password, but press <�nter> when prompted to create/conﬁrm 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:

�.

Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.

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

Conﬁrm the password when prompted.

To change a user password:

Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.

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

<Enter>.

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

Conﬁrm the password when prompted.

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

<�nter> when prompted to create/conﬁrm the password. After you clear the password, the

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

2-12

ASUS Z87-A

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 DI�� model you

installed on the motherboard.

Scroll down to display other BIOS items.

2-13

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.5.1

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 conﬁguration options:

[Auto]

Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Manual]

[X.�.P.]

Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.

If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme �emory Proﬁle

(X.�.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the proﬁles supported by your

memory modules for optimizing the system performance.

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

Filter PLL [Auto]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Low BCLK �ode] [�igh BCLK �ode]

BCLK Frequency [100.0]

Allows you to set the BCLK frequency to enhance the system performance. Use the <+> or

<�> to adjust the value. The values range from 8�.��z to ��.��z

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Proﬁle #1] [Proﬁle #2]

2.5.2

ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Enabled]

[Enabled]

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

User�deﬁned memory frequency mode.

[Disabled]

Allows you to set to default core ratio settings.

2.5.3

CPU Core Ratio [Sync All Cores]

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

Conﬁguration 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.

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

2-14

ASUS Z87-A

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].

2.5.4

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.

2.5.5

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.

2.5.6

Internal PLL Overvoltage [Auto]

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

overclocking capability.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�nabled] [Disabled]

2.5.7

CPU bus speed : DRAM speed ratio mode [Auto]

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

[Auto]

DRA� speed is set to the optimized settings.

[100:133]

[100:100]

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

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

2.5.8

Memory Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to set the memory operating frequency. The conﬁguration options vary with the

BCLK/PCIE Frequency item settings.

2.5.9

CPU Graphics Max. Ratio [Auto]

[Auto]

Allows you to automatically optimize the CPU Graphics Ratio depending on

the system loading.

[Manual]

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

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

the installed CPU.

2-15

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.5.10

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.

Conﬁguration options: [As Is] [Ratio Only] [BCLK First]

2.5.11

EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

2.5.12

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.

2.5.13

DIGI+ VRM

CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Load�line is deﬁned by Intel^®VR� speciﬁcation 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 speciﬁcation.

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�anual]

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

conditions should be monitored.

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

CPU Fixed Frequency [300]

This item allows you to set a ﬁxed CPU Voltage frequency. Use the <+> or <�> keys to

adjust the value. The values range from ��k�z to 5��k�z with a 5�k�z interval.

2-16

ASUS Z87-A

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

VRM Spread Spectrum [Disabled]

Enable the VRM Spread Spectrum to enhance system stability.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

Active Frequency Mode [Disabled]

Set this item to Enabled to help enhance the power saving condition while switching

frequencies. While a higher frequency makes the VRM transient response much faster,

switching frequenciesa affect the VRM thermal components.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

CPU Power Phase Control [Auto]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Standard] [Optimized] [�xtreme] [M�aanual Adjustment]

DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to [Extreme]. The thermal

conditions should be monitored.

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]

[Extreme]

Select to maintain the VRM thermal balance.

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [1��%] [11�%] [12�%] [1��%] [14�%]

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

support.

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.

2-17

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.5.14

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

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 speciﬁcation limit.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

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 t0 4096W.

Package Power Time Window [Auto]

Also known as Power Limit 1, and allows you to maintain the time window for Turbo

Ratio over TDP (Thermal Design Power). Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value.

The values range from 1 to 127 in seconds.

Short Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Also known as Power Limit 2, and allows you to provide rapid protection when the

package power exceeds the Power Limit 1. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the

value. The values range from 1W t0 4096W.

CPU Integrated VR Current Limit [Auto]

Allows you to set a higher current limit to prevent frequency and power throttling when

overclocking. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.125

to 1023.875 with a 0.125 interval.

CPU Internal Power Switching Frequency

Frequency Tuning Mode [Auto]

Allows you to increase or decrease the switching frequency of the internal regulator.

Decrease to help consume less power or increase to help votlage stability. When this

item is set to [+] or [-], the Frequency Tuning Offset appears and allows you to set its

value.

2-18

ASUS Z87-A

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [�nabled]

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [�nabled]

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�igh 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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [�nabled]

Idle Power-in Response [Auto]

Allows you to set the slew rate for the Fully Integrated Voltage Regulator as it enters

manual override mode.

Conﬁguration 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.

Conﬁguration 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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [L�V�L �4] � [L�V�L 4]

Power Current Offset [Auto]

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

balance between optimal regulating while staying below the current threshold.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [1��%] [87.5%] [75.�%] [62.5%] [5�.�%] [�7.5%] [25.�%]

[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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�.��] � [1.5�]

2-19

Chapter 2: BIOS information

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.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 sufﬁcient 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 sufﬁcient 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.

2.5.15

Extreme OV [Disabled]

Default set to DIsabled and help to protect CPU not been burned by Over Voltage. When set

to Enabled, you might choose high level voltage to overclock, but not guaranteed CPU life.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

2.5.16

CPU Core Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to conﬁgure the voltage amount for the processor’s cores. Increase the voltage

when setting a high Core Frequency value.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�anual �ode] [Offset �ode] [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.

2-20

ASUS Z87-A

2.5.17

CPU Cache Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to conﬁgure the amount of voltage fed to the uncore of the processor including its

cache. Increase the voltage when increasing Ring frequency.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�anual �ode] [Offset �ode] [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.

2.5.18

CPU Graphics Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to conﬁgure the voltage amount for the integrated graphics processing unit

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

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�anual �ode] [Offset �ode] [Adaptive �ode]

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core 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].

2-21

Chapter 2: BIOS information

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.

2.5.19

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 conﬁgure 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.

2.5.20

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 conﬁgure 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.

2-22

ASUS Z87-A

2.5.21

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 conﬁgure 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.

2.5.22

SVID Support [Auto]

When overclocking, set this item to [Enabled]. Disabling this item would stop the processor

from communicating with the external voltage regulator.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [�nabled]

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.

2.5.23

Extreme OV [Disabled]

Disable this item to help protect the CPU from being burned by Over Voltage. When you

enable this item, you can choose a high level voltage to overclock, but will not guarantee the

CPU life.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

2.5.24

CPU Input Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set an input voltage for the processor by the external voltage regulator. By

default, this item takes the standard value of the installed CPU. You can use the <+> or <->

keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800V to 2.7V with a 0.010V interval.

2.5.25

DRAM Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value.

The values range from 1.20V to 1.92V with a 0.01V interval.

According to Intel^®CPU speciﬁcations, DI��s 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.

2-23

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.5.26

PCH VLX Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the I/O voltage on the PCH (Platform Controller Hub). You can use the <+>

or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1.2000V to 2.0000V with a 0.0125V

interval.

2.5.27

PCH Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the Core voltage for the PCH (Platform Controller Hub). You can use the

<+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.70V to the maximum voltage of

installed DRAM with a 0.0125V interval.

•

The values of the CPU PLL Voltage, CPU Manual Voltage, CPU Offset Voltage,

iGPU Manual Voltage, iGPU Offset Voltage, DRAM Voltage, VCCSA Voltage, VCCIO

Voltage, and PCH Voltage items are labeled in different color, indicating the risk levels

of high voltage settings.

•

The system may need better cooling system for a more stable performance under high

voltage settings.

2.5.28

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.

2.5.29

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.

2.5.30

Clock Crossing VBoot [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing voltage boot when the rising edge of

the BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to

adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.00625V interval.

2.5.31

Clock Crossing Reset Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing reset voltage when the rising edge of

the BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to

adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.10625V interval.

2.5.32

Clock Crossing Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to increase the value of the clock crossing voltage when the rising edge of the

BCLK DN is equal to the falling edge of the BCLK DP. You can use the <+> or <-> keys to

adjust the value. The values range from 0.1V to 1.9V with a 0.10625V interval.

2.5.33

[Auto]

CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]

Automatic conﬁguration.

[Disabled]

[Enabled]

Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.

Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.

2-24

ASUS Z87-A

2.6

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 ﬁeld values

can cause the system to malfunction.

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]

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

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

Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.

Hyper-threading [Enabled]

The Intel Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two

logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two

threads or processes simultaneously.

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Two threads per activated core are enabled.

Only one thread per activated core is enabled.

2-25

Chapter 2: BIOS information

Active Processor Cores [All]

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

Conﬁguration options: [All] [1] [2] [�]

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.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]

�xecute Disable prevents certain classes of malicious buffer overﬂow attacks when combined

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

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], a V�� can utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by

Vanderpool Technology.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

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

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

Conﬁguration options: [�ax Non�Turbo Performance] [�ax Battery] [Turbo Performance]

Dynamic Storage Accelerator [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable Dynamic Storage Accelerator for C state conﬁguration.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

CPU Power Management Conﬁguration

This item allows you to manage and conﬁgure the CPU’s power.

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Allows your system to adjust the processor’s voltage and cores frequency, resulting in

decreased power consumption and heat production.

[Disabled]

[Enabled]

The CPU runs at its default speed.

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 speciﬁcation limit.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

2-26

ASUS Z87-A

CPU C States [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable the CPU C states.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�nabled] [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.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

CPU C3 Report [Enabled]

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

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

CPU C6 Report [Enabled]

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

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

C6 Latency [Short]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Short] [Long]

CPU C7 Report [CPU C7s]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [CPU C7] [CPU C7s]

C7 Latency [Long]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Short] [Long]

Package C State Support [Auto]

Allows you to set the a C�state according to the following conﬁguration

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

2.6.2

PCH Conﬁguration

PCI Express Conﬁguration

Allows you to conﬁgure the PCI �xpress 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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [�nabled]

ASPM Support [Disabled]

Allows you to set the ASPM level.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [L�s] [L1] [L�sL1]

PCIe Speed [Auto]

Allows you to select the PCI Express port speed.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2]

2-27

Chapter 2: BIOS information

Intel Rapid Start Technology [Disabled]

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

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [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.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [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.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

Active Memory Threshold [0]

This item supports Intel Rapid Storage Technology when the partition size

is greater than the Active Page Threshold size. When set to zero (�), it will

go to Auto mode and checks if the partition size is enough at S� entry.

�nsure 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.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

Intel Smart Connect Technology

ISCT Support [Disabled]

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

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

2-28

ASUS Z87-A

2.6.3

SATA Conﬁguration

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.

SATA Mode Selection [AHCI]

Allows you to set the SATA conﬁguration.

[Disabled]

[IDE]

Disables the SATA function.

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 �ode] when you want to create a RAID conﬁguration from the

SATA hard disk drives.

Aggressive LPM Support [Auto]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled] [Auto]

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.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [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.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

2.6.4

System Agent Conﬁguration

CPU Audio Devices [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable CPU SA Audio devices.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

2-29

Chapter 2: BIOS information

DVI Port Audio [Disable]

Allows you to enable or disable the DVI audio port.

Conﬁguration options: [Disable] [�nable]

Graphics Conﬁguration

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

Primary Display [Auto]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [iGPU] [PCI�] [PCI]

iGPU Memory [Auto]

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

iGPU.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�2�] [64�] [96�] [128�] [16��] [192�] [224�] [256�]

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

Render Standby [Auto]

Allows you to enable the Intel Graphics Render Standby support to reduce the iGPU

power use when idle.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [�nabled]

iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled]

Allows you to enable the iGPU �ulti��onitor. The iGPU shared system memory size

will be ﬁxed at 64�B.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

DMI Conﬁguration

Allows you to control various DMI (Desktop Management Interface) functions.

DMI Gen 2 [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable DMI Gen 2.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [�nabled] [Disabled]

NB PCIe Conﬁguration

Allows you to conﬁgure the NB PCI �xpress settings.

PCIEx16_1/ Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to conﬁgure the PCI�x16 slot’s speed.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen�]

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [L�s] [L1] [L�sL1]

PEG - ASPM [Disabled]

Allows you to control ASPM support for the PEG device.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [ASP� L�s] [ASP� L1] [ASP� L�sL1]

2-30

ASUS Z87-A

Memory Conﬁguration

Allows you to conﬁgure the memory conﬁguration parameters.

Memory Scrambler [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Memory Scrambler support.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

Memory Remap [Enabled]

Allows you to enable remapping the memory above 4GB.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

2.6.5

USB Conﬁguration

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]

[Disabled]

Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).

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]

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Enables the operation of xHCI controller.

Enables the xHCI controller.

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.

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.

2-31

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.6.6

Platform Misc Conﬁguration

The items in this menu allow you to conﬁgure 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.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

The following item appears only when you set the PCI Express Native Power Management

to [Enabled].

Native ASPM [Disabled]

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Vista controls the ASPM support for the device.

BIOS controls the ASPM support for the device.

2.6.7

Onboard Devices Conﬁguration

Scroll down to view the other BIOS items.

HD Audio Controller [Enabled]

[�nabled]

�nables the �igh Deﬁnition 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�deﬁnition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio

module supports.

[�D]

Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high deﬁnition

audio.

[AC97]

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

SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF]

[SPDIF]

[HDMI]

Sets to an SPDIF audio output.

Sets to an HDMI audio output.

Realtek LAN Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Enables the Realtek^®LAN controller.

Disables the Realtek^®LAN controller.

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

Realtek PXE OPROM [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Realtek LAN controller.

Conﬁguration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]

2-32

ASUS Z87-A

Serial Port Conﬁguration

Allows you to set the parameters of the serial ports.

This item only functions only if there is a serial port (COM1) connector connected to the

motherboard.

Serial Port [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the serial port.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

The following item appears only if you set the Serial Port to [Enabled].

Change Settings

Allows you to select an optimal setting for Super I/O device.

2.6.8

APM

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled (S4+S5] [�nabled (S5)]

Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]

[Power On]

[Power Off]

[Last State]

The system goes into ON state after an AC power loss.

The system goes into OFF state after an AC power loss.

The system goes into either OFF or ON state, whatever the system state

was before the AC power loss.

Power On By PCIE/PCI [Disabled]

[Disabled]

Disables the PCIE/PCI devices to generate a wake-on-LAN feature of the

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

[Enabled]

Enables the PCIE/PCI devices to generate a wake-on-LAN feature of the

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

Power On By Ring [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Wake-on-Modem function

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

Power On By RTC [Disabled]

[Disabled]

[Enabled]

Disables RTC to generate a wake event.

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

Minute/Second will become user�conﬁgurable with set values.

2-33

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.6.9

Network Stack

Network Stack [Disable]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Disable] [�nable]

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.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

2.7

Monitor menu

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

the fan settings.

2.7.1

CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard

temperatures. Select [Ignore] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.

2-34

ASUS Z87-A

2.7.2

CPU Fan Speed [Ignore] or [Monitor] / [N/A], CPU OPT

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 ﬁeld shows N/A. Select [Ignore] if you do not wish to display the detected

speed.

2.7.3

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.

2.7.4

CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [Advance M�ode]

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

[Advance Mode].

CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]

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

Conﬁguration options: [Ignore] [2�� RP�] [�� RP�] [4�� RP�] [5�� RP�] [6�� RP�]

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]

[Turbo]

[Manual]

Set to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.

Set to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.

Set to assign the detailed fan speed control parameters.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Fan Proﬁle 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.

2-35

Chapter 2: BIOS information

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%. When the CPU temperature is under 40ºC, the CPU fan will operate

at the minimum duty cycle.

2.7.5

[Disabled]

Chassis Q-Fan Control 1/3 [Enabled]

Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

[Enabled]

Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit 1/3 [600 RPM]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows you

to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.

Conﬁguration options: [Ignore] [2�� RP�] [�� RP�] [4�� RP�] [5�� RP�] [6�� RP�]

Chassis Fan 1/3 Profile [Standard]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature. It allows

you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan.

[Standard]

Set to make the chassis fan adjust automatically depending on the

chassis temperature.

[Silent]

[Turbo]

[Manual]

Set to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan operation.

Set to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.

Set to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

The following items appear only when you set the Chassis Fan Proﬁle to [Manual].

Chassis Upper Temperature 1/4 [70]

Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature.

The values range from 40ºC to 90ºC.

Chassis Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) 1/4 [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 Lower Temperature 1/4 [40]

Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.

CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) 1/4 [60]

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

values range from 0% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under

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

2.7.6

Anti Surge Support [Enabled]

This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

2-36

ASUS Z87-A

2.8

Boot menu

The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.

Boot Conﬁguration

2.8.1

Fast Boot [Enabled]

[Disabled]

Allows your system to go back to its normal boot speed.

[Enabled]

Allows your system to accelerate the boot speed.

The following items appear only when you set the Fast Boot to [Enabled].

USB Support [Partial In...]

[Disabled]

All USB devices will not be available until OS boot up for a fastest

POST time.

[Full Initialization] All USB devices will be available during POST. This process will

extend the POST time.

[Partial

Initialization]

For a faster POST time, only USB ports with keyboard and mouse

connections will be detected.

2-37

Chapter 2: BIOS information

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 Fast Boot is enabled.

[Auto]

For a faster POST time, PS/2 devices will only be available when the

system boots up or rebooted when the PS/2 devices have not been

reconnected or changed. If you disconnect or change PS/2 devices

before restarting the system, PS/2 devices will not be available and

BIOS setup program will not be accessible via PS/2 devices.

[Full Initialization]

For full system control, PS/2 devices will be available during POST at

any circumstances. This process will extend POST time.

[Disabled]

For the fastest POST time, all PS/2 devices will not be available until

your computer enters the operating system.

Network Stack Driver Support [Disabled]

[Disabled]

[Enabled]

Select to skip the network stack driver from loading during POST.

Select to load the network stack driver during POST.

Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot]

[Normal Boot]

[Fast Boot]

Returns to normal boot on the next boot after AC power loss.

Accelerates the boot speed on the next boot after AC power loss.

2.8.9

HW Fast Boot [Disabled]

Allows the system to enable or disable the HW Fast Boot.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

2.8.10

DirectKey Enable [Go to BIOS...]

[Disabled]

Disables the DirectKey button. The system will only power on or off

when you press the DirectKey button.

[Go to BIOS

Setup]

Allows the system to power on and go to the BIOS Setup directly when

you press the DirectKey button.

2.8.11

Boot Logo Display [Enabled]

[Enabled]

Enables the full screen boot logo display during POST.

[Disabled]

Disables the full screen boot logo display during POST.

The following items appear only when you set the Boot Logo Display to [Enabled].

Boot Logo Size Control [Auto]

[Auto]

Automatically adjusts for Windows^®requirements.

[Full Screen]

�aximizes the boot logo size.

2-38

ASUS Z87-A

Post Delay Time [3 sec]

This item allows you to select a desired additional POST waiting time to easily enter the BIOS

Setup. You can only execute the POST delay time during normal boot. The values range from

0 to 10 seconds.

This feature will only work when set under normal boot.

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] � [1� sec] [Until Press �SC]

2.8.12

[On]

Bootup NumLock State [On]

Set the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].

Set the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].

[Off]

2.8.13

[Disabled]

[Enabled]

Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]

Disables the function.

The system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs.

2.8.14

Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]

[Force BIOS]

The third-party ROM messages will be displayed during the boot sequence.

[Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party

manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so.

2.8.15

Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]

Allows you to trap Interrupt 19 by the option ROMs.

Conﬁguration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]

2.8.16

Setup Mode [EZ Mode]

[Advanced Mode] Allows you to go to Advanced Mode of the BIOS after POST.

[EZ Mode]

Allows you to go to EZ Mode of the BIOS after POST.

2.8.17

CSM (Compatibility Support Module)

Allows you to conﬁgure the CS� (Compatibility Support �odule) items to fully support the

various VGA, bootable devices and add-on devices for better compatibility.

2-39

Chapter 2: BIOS information

Launch CSM [Enabled]

[Auto]

The system automatically detects the bootable devices and the add-on

devices.

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

For better compatibility, enable the CSM to fully support the non-UEFI

driver add-on devices or the Windows^®UEFI mode.

Disable the CSM to fully support the non-UEFI driver add-on devices or the

Windows^®UEFI mode.

The following items appear only when you set the Launch CSM to [Enabled].

Boot Devices Control [UEFI and Legacy OpROM]

Allows you to select the type of devices that you want to boot.

Conﬁguration options: [U�FI and Legacy OpRO�] [Legacy OpRO� only] [U�FI only]

Boot from Network Devices [Legacy OpROM first]

Allows you to select the type of network devices that you want to launch.

Conﬁguration options: [Legacy OpRO� ﬁrst] [U�FI driver ﬁrst] [Ignore]

Boot from Storage Devices [Legacy OpROM first]

Allows you to select the type of storage devices that you want to launch.

Conﬁguration options: [Both, Legacy OpRO� ﬁrst] [Both, U�FI ﬁrst] [Legacy OpRO�

ﬁrst] [U�FI driver ﬁrst] [Ignore]

Boot from PCIe/PCI Expansion Devices [Legacy OpROM first]

Allows you to select the type of PCIe/PCI expansion devices that you want to launch.

Conﬁguration options: [Legacy OpRO� ﬁrst] [U�FI driver ﬁrst]

2.8.18

Secure Boot

Allows you to conﬁgure the Windows^®Secure Boot settings and manage its keys to protect

the system from unauthorized access and malwares during POST.

OS Type [Windows UEFI mode]

[Windows UEFI

Mode]

Allows you to select your installed operating system. Execute the

Microsoft^®Secure Boot check. Only select this option when booting on

Windows^®UEFI mode or other Microsoft^®Secure Boot compliant OS.

[Other OS]

Get the optimized function when booting on Windows^®non-UEFI

mode, Windows^®Vista/ Windows^®XP, or other Microsoft^®Secure Boot

non compliant OS. Microsoft^®Secure Boot only supports Windows^®

UEFI mode.

2-40

ASUS Z87-A

The following item appears only when you set the OS Type to [Windows UEFI mode].

Key Management

This item appears only when you set OS Type to [Windows UEFI Mode]. It allows you

to manage the Secure Boot keys.

Install Default Secure Boot keys

Allows you to immediately load the default Security Boot keys, Platform key

(PK), Key-exchange Key (KEK), Signature database (db), and Revoked

Signatures (dbx). When the default Secure boot keys are loaded, the PK

state will change from Unloaded mode to loaded mode.

Clear Secure Boot keys

This item appears only when you load the default Secure Boot keys. This

item allows you to clear all default Secure Boot keys.

Save Secure Boot Keys

Allows you to save the PK (Platform Keys) to a USB storage device.

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

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

Allows you to load the downloaded PK from a USB storage device.

The PK ﬁle must be formatted as a U�FI variable structure with time�based authenticated

variable.

KEK Management

The KEK (Key-exchange Key or Key Enrollment Key) manages the Signature database

(db) and Revoked Signature database (dbx).

Key-exchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft^®Secure Boot Key-Enrollment Key (KEK).

Delete the KEK

Allows you to delete the KEK from your system.

Conﬁguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load KEK from File

Allows you to load the downloaded KEK from a USB storage device.

Append KEK from File

Allows you to load the additional KEK from a storage device for an

additional db and dbx loaded management.

The K�K ﬁle must be formatted as a U�FI variable structure with time�based authenticated

variable.

2-41

Chapter 2: BIOS information

DB Management

The db (Authorized Signature database) lists the signers or images of U�FI

applications, operating system loaders, and UEFI drivers that you can load on the

single computer.

Delete the db

Allows you to delete the db ﬁle from your system.

Conﬁguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load db from File

Allows you to load the downloaded db from a USB storage device.

Append db from File

Allows you to load the additional db from a storage device so that more

images can be loaded securely.

The db ﬁle must be formatted as a U�FI variable structure with time�based authenticated

variable.

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

Allows you to delete the dbx ﬁle from your system.

Load dbx from File

Allows you to load the downloaded dbx from a USB storage device.

Conﬁguration options: [Yes] [No]

Append dbx from File

Allows you to load the additional dbx from a storage device so that more

db’s images cannot be loaded.

The dbx ﬁle must be formatted as a U�FI variable structure with time�based authenticated

variable.

2.8.19

Boot Option Priorities

These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The

number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices

installed in the system.

•

To access Windows^®OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following:

•

Press <F5> when ASUS Logo appears.

Press <F8> after POST.

To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo

appears.

2-42

ASUS Z87-A

2.8.20

Boot Override

These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on

the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start

booting from the selected device.

2.9

Tools menu

The Tools menu items allow you to conﬁgure options for special functions. Select an item

then press <Enter> to display the submenu.

2.9.1

ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility

Allows you to run ASUS �Z Flash 2. When you press <�nter>, a conﬁrmation message

appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to

conﬁrm your choice.

For more details, see section 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2.

2.9.2

ASUS O.C. Proﬁle

This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.

The Setup Proﬁle Status items show Not Installed if no proﬁle is created.

Label

Allows you to key in a label of the setup proﬁle.

Save to Proﬁle

Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a proﬁle. Key in a

proﬁle number from one to eight, press <�nter>, and then select Yes.

2-43

Chapter 2: BIOS information

Load from Proﬁle

Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the proﬁle

number that saved your BIOS settings, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.

•

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the

system boot failure!

•

We recommend that you update the BIOS ﬁle only coming from the same memory/

CPU conﬁguration and BIOS version.

2.9.3

ASUS SPD Information

Allows you to view the DRAM SPD information.

DIMM Slot # [Slot 2]

Displays the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information of the DIMM module installed on the

selected slot.

Conﬁguration options: [Slot 1] [Slot 2] [Slot �] [Slot 4]

2-44

ASUS Z87-A

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.

2.10.1

Load Optimized Defaults

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup

menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conﬁrmation window appears.

Select Yes to load the default values.

2.10.2

Save Changes & Reset

Once you are ﬁnished making your selections, choose this option from the �xit menu to

ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>,

a conﬁrmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.

2.10.3

Discard Changes & Exit

This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you

select this option or if you press <�sc>, a conﬁrmation window appears. Select Yes to

discard changes and exit.

2.10.4

ASUS EZ Mode

This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen.

2.10.5

Launch EFI Shell from ﬁlesystem device

This option allows you to attempt to launch the �FI Shell application (shellx64.eﬁ) from one of

the available devices that have a ﬁlesystem.

2-45

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2-46

ASUS Z87-A

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. These limits are designed to provide

reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This

equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed

and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference

to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur

in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or

television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user

is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is

connected.

•

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required

to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modiﬁcations to this unit not

expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority

to operate this equipment.

IC: Canadian Compliance Statement

Complies with the Canadian IC�S�� 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). Operation is

subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2)

this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired

operation of the device.

Cut appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le

matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence d’Industrie Canada. Le

fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :

(1) cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences et

(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence, y compris celles susceptibles de provoquer

un fonctionnement non souhaité de l’appareil.

A-1

Appendices

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from

digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department

of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement

VCCI Class B Statement

KC: Korea Warning Statement

REACH

Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of

Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at

ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.

DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to

enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin

indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in

municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.

DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol

of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal

waste.

ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services

ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards

for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to

responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging

materials. Please go to http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm for detailed recycling

information in different regions.

A-2

Z87-A

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address

Telephone

Fax

E-mail

Web site

15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259

+886-2-2894-3447

+886-2-2890-7798

[email protected]

www.asus.com.tw

Technical Support

Telephone

Online support

+86-21-38429911

support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address

Telephone

Fax

800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA

+1-812-282-3777

+1-510-608-4555

usa.asus.com

Web site

Technical Support

Telephone

Support fax

+1-812-282-2787

+1-812-284-0883

support.asus.com

Online support

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)

Address

Fax

Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany

+49-2102-959911

Web site

Online contact

www.asus.de

www.asus.de/sales

Technical Support

Telephone

Support Fax

+49-1805-010923*

+49-2102-9599-11

support.asus.com

Online support

* EUR 0.14/minute from a German ﬁxed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.

A-3

Appendices

A-4

Z87-A

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