P8B WS
Contents
Notices......................................................................................................... vi
Safety information .................................................................................... viii
About this guide ......................................................................................... ix
P8B WS specifications summary.............................................................. xi
Chapter 1:
Product introduction
1.1
1.2
1.3
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1
Special features............................................................................ 1-2
1.3.1
1.3.2
1.3.3
Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2
ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features........................... 1-3
ASUS features ................................................................ 1-4
Chapter 2:
Hardware information
2.1
2.2
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1
Motherboard overview................................................................. 2-2
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.2.3
2.2.4
2.2.5
2.2.6
2.2.7
2.2.8
2.2.9
Motherboard layout......................................................... 2-2
Layout contents............................................................... 2-3
Central Processing Unit (CPU) ....................................... 2-4
System memory.............................................................. 2-5
Expansion slots............................................................. 2-10
Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-12
Onboard LEDs .............................................................. 2-15
Jumper.......................................................................... 2-18
Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-20
2.3
Building your computer system ............................................... 2-30
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.3
2.3.4
2.3.5
2.3.6
2.3.7
2.3.8
2.3.9
Additional tools and components to build a PC system 2-30
CPU installation ............................................................ 2-31
CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation................. 2-33
DIMM installation .......................................................... 2-35
Motherboard installation................................................ 2-36
ATX Power connection.................................................. 2-38
SATA device connection................................................ 2-39
Front I/O Connector ...................................................... 2-40
Expension Card installation .......................................... 2-41
iii
Contents
2.3.10 Rear panel connection.................................................. 2-42
2.3.11 Audio I/O connections................................................... 2-43
Starting up for the first time...................................................... 2-46
Turning off the computer........................................................... 2-47
2.4
2.5
Chapter 3:
BIOS setup
3.1
3.2
Knowing BIOS .............................................................................. 3-1
BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-1
3.2.1
3.2.2
EZ Mode ......................................................................... 3-2
Advanced Mode.............................................................. 3-3
3.3
3.4
3.5
Main menu .................................................................................... 3-5
Ai Tweaker menu.......................................................................... 3-8
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-13
3.5.1
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.5.4
3.5.5
3.5.6
3.5.7
3.5.8
Trusted Computing........................................................ 3-13
CPU Configuration........................................................ 3-14
System Agent Configuration ......................................... 3-16
PCH Configuration........................................................ 3-17
SATA Configuration....................................................... 3-17
USB Configuration ........................................................ 3-19
Onboard Devices Configuration.................................... 3-20
APM .............................................................................. 3-22
3.6
3.7
3.8
Monitor menu ............................................................................. 3-24
Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-27
Tool menu ................................................................................... 3-28
3.8.1
3.8.2
3.8.3
ASUS EZ Flash Utility................................................... 3-28
ASUS O.C. Profile......................................................... 3-29
Asus SPD Information................................................... 3-30
3.9
Exit menu.................................................................................... 3-31
Updating BIOS............................................................................ 3-32
3.10.1 ASUS Update utility ...................................................... 3-33
3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash Utility................................................... 3-36
3.10.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility .................................... 3-37
3.10.4 ASUS BIOS Updater..................................................... 3-38
3.10
iv
Contents
Chapter 4:
Software support
4.1
4.2
Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1
Support DVD information............................................................ 4-1
4.2.1
4.2.2
Running the support DVD............................................... 4-1
Obtaining the software manuals ..................................... 4-2
4.3
Software information ................................................................... 4-3
4.3.1
4.3.2
4.3.3
4.3.4
4.3.5
4.3.6
4.3.7
AI Suite II ........................................................................ 4-3
EPU................................................................................. 4-4
FAN Xpert ....................................................................... 4-5
Probe II ........................................................................... 4-6
Sensor Recorder............................................................. 4-7
Ai Charger+..................................................................... 4-8
Audio configurations ....................................................... 4-9
4.4
RAID configurations .................................................................. 4-11
4.4.1
4.4.2
4.4.3
4.4.4
RAID definitions .............................................................4-11
Installing Serial ATA hard disks ..................................... 4-12
Setting the RAID item in BIOS...................................... 4-12
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility .... 4-12
4.5
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 4-16
4.5.1
4.5.2
4.5.3
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS.... 4-16
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®...................... 4-16
Installing the RAID driver
during Windows® OS installation................................... 4-17
4.5.4
Using a USB floppy disk drive....................................... 4-18
Chapter 5:
5.1
Multiple GPU technology support
ATI® CrossFireX™ technology.................................................... 5-1
5.1.1
5.1.2
5.1.3
5.1.4
5.1.5
Requirements.................................................................. 5-1
Before you begin............................................................. 5-1
Installing CrossFireX graphics cards .............................. 5-2
Installing the device drivers............................................. 5-3
Enabling the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology ................... 5-3
5.2
NVIDIA® CUDA™ technology ...................................................... 5-5
5.2.1
5.2.2
Requirements.................................................................. 5-5
Installing CUDA-ready graphics cards............................ 5-5
v
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, and
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.
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.
vi
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and
Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical
substances in our products at ASUS website at http://csr.asus.com/english/
REACH.htm.
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.
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.
vii
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.
viii
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: Hardware information
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It includes description of the switches,
jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.
•
•
•
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter 4: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
This chapter describes how to install and configure multiple ATI®
CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and
software updates.
1.
2.
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.
ix
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 (+).
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+Del>
Command
Means that you must type the command exactly as
shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed
in brackets.
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
BUPDATER /iP8BWS.ROM
x
P8B WS specifications summary
CPU
LGA1155 socket for Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i3
desktop processor
LGA 1155 socket for Intel® XEON E3-1200 series server/
workstation processor
Supports 32nm CPU
* Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0
** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list
Chipset
Memory
Intel® C206 Chipset
4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 1333/1066 MHz,
ECC/non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Dual channel architecture
Support Intel Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)
**Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the
Memory QVL(Qualified Vendors Lidts).
Expansion Slots
VGA Output
1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 (@ x16 or x8)
1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 (@ x8)
2 x PCIe 2.0 x16 (@ x4)
1 x PCIe 2.0 x1 (@ x1)
1 x PCI
Multi-VGA output support: DVI-I and RGB ports
Supports DVI with max. resolution 1920 x 1200@60Hz
Supports RGB with max. resolution 2048 x 1536@75Hz
Maximum shared memory of 1748 MB
Multi-GPU support
Storage
Supports ATI® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
Intel® C206 Chipset
-
-
-
2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (gray)
4 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports (blue)
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology supports RAID 0,
1, 5 and 10
LAN
2 x Intel® 82574L GbE LAN
Support teaming function
-
1394
USB
VIA VT6308S controller supports 2 x1394a port
USB 3.0 controller
-
2 x USB 3.0 ports (Blue, at back panel)
Intel® C206 Chipset
-
14 x USB 2.0 ports (8 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at
back panel)
(continued on the next page)
xi
P8B WS specifications summary
Audio
Realtek® ALC892 8-Channel High Definition Audio
CODEC
-
-
BD Audio Layer Content Protection
Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming and Front
Panel Jack-Retasking
-
Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O
ASUS Unique Features
GPU Boost with switch
ASUS Power Design
-
8+2 Phase Power Design
ASUS EPU
-
EPU, EPU switch
ASUS Exclusive Features
-
-
-
-
MemOK!
AI Suite II
Anti Surge
ASUS EFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly
graphics user interface
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
- ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-sink solution
- ASUS Fan Xpert
ASUS EZ DIY
- ASUS Q-Connector
- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
- ASUS EZ Flash Utility
ASUS Q-Design
ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS Q-DIMM
Workstation Unique
Features
4 PCIe x 16 slots
G.P. Diagnosis Card bundled
Quick Gate: 2 vertical USB 2.0 on board
ASUS SASsaby series Cards support
ASUS WS Diag. LED
BIOS Features
32 Mb Flash ROM, EFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0,
SM BIOS 2.6, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ
Flash Utility, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
Back Panel I/O Ports
PS/2 KB/MS port
S/PDIF Out (Optical and Coxial)
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports
1 x IEEE1394a
2 x Lan Connector
1 x DVI-I
1 x 8-channel Audio I/O
(continued on the next page)
xii
P8B WS specifications summary
Internal I/O Connectors
24-pin ATX Power connector
8-pin ATX +12V Power connector
CPU fan with PWM control
Chassis fan1 with Q-fan control
Chassis fan2 with Q-fan control
Chassis fan3 with Q-fan control
PWR fan
AAFP connector
1 x COM port connector
2 x USB connectors support additional 4 USB ports
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 vertical ports
TPM header
S/PDIF Out header
1 x MemOK! Button
20-pin front panel connector
Manageability
OS
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE
Win7 32/64 bit,Vista 32/64 bit and WinXP 32/64bit,
Server 2003 32/64bit, Server 2008 32/64bit and Server
2008 R2 64bit
Form Factor
ATX Form Factor, 12"x 9.6" (30.5cm x 24.5cm)
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
xiii
xiv
This chapter describes the motherboard
features and the new technologies
it supports.
Chapter 1: Product
1
introduction
Chapter summary
1
1.1
1.2
1.3
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1
Special features............................................................................ 1-2
ASUS P8B WS
1.1
Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS P8B WS motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the
items in your package with the list below.
1.2
Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Motherboard
I/O modules
Cables
ASUS P8B WS
1 x USB 2.0 (2 ports) + eSATA (1 port) module
2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s power cables
4 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
1 x COM port cable
Accessories
1 x ASUS Q-Shield (I/O shield)
1 x ASUS 2-in-1 Q-Connector Kit (Retail version only)
1 x G.P. Diagnosis Card (Retail version only)
Application DVD
Documentation
ASUS motherboard support DVD
User guide
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
ASUS P8B WS
1-1
1.3
Special features
1.3.1
Product highlights
Green ASUS
This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision
of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packagings to safeguard
consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.
LGA1155 Intel® Sandy Bridge Processor Ready
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Sandy Bridge processors in the
LGA1155 package, with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to support
2-channel (4 DIMM) DDR3 memory and 20 PCI Express 2.0 lanes. This provides
great graphics performance. Intel® Sandy Bridge processors are among the most
powerful and energy efficient CPUs in the world.
C206
The Intel® C206 Express is the latest single-chipset design that supports the
new socket 1155 Intel® Core™ i3 2nd generation processors, and Intel® XEON®
E3 server processors. It improves performance by utilizing serial point-to-point
links, allowing for increased bandwidth and stability. Additionally, the C206 comes
with 2 SATA 6Gb/s and 4 SATA 3Gb/s ports for faster data retrieval, doubling the
bandwidth of current bus systems. C206 supports ECC function and Sandy Bridge
processor that supports 20 PCI Express 2.0 lanes. Moreover, Intel® C206 Express
Chipset also supports iGPU function.
PCIe 2.0
Double Speed; Double Bandwidth
This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 devices for double speed and
bandwidth that enhances system performance.
Dual-Channel DDR3 1333/ 1066 support
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates
of 1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest
3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3
architecture enlarges the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system
performance.
SATA 6Gb/s Supports
The Intel® C206 Chipset natively supports next-generation Serial ATA (SATA)
storage interface, this motherboard delivers up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer rates.
Additionally, get enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of
current bus systems.
1-2
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
USB 3.0 Support
Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0--the latest
connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next-generation components and
peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10X faster and is also backward compatible
with USB 2.0 components.
GPU Boost
Go to the Limit with iGPU Level Up!
GPU Boost accelerates the integrated GPU for extreme graphics performance. The
user-friendly interface facilitates flexible frequency adjustments. It easily delivers
stable system-level upgrades for every use.
EPU
Energy Efficiency All Around
Tap into the world's first real time PC power saving engine through a simple
onboard switch or AI Suite II utility. Get total system power savings by
automatically detecting current PC loadings and intelligently moderating power
consumption. This also reduces fan noise and extends component longevity!
1.3.2
ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features
Diverse CPU and Memory supported
The motherboard provides dual use for CPU and memory, which support Intel® E3
series server processors and Core i3 2nd generation desktop processors. Users
can choose DDR3 un-buffered non-ECC memory which is widely available in the
PC market, or more stable and reliable DDR3 un-buffered ECC memory. P8B WS
provide you flexible options on CPU and memory to meet diverse needs.
Built-in Dual Intel Server-Class Gigabit LAN
For more reliable networking, the P8B WS features built-in dual Intel server-class
Gigabit LAN. It uses lower CPU utilization, increasing throughput to achieve
outstanding performance as well as better support for diverse operating systems.
Besides, Intel® 82574L chipset has certification of VMware to support virtualization
technology.
Quad-GPU CrossFireX Support!
P8B WS can support ATI CrossFireX technology, up to Quad-GPUs. The
motherboard features the most powerful Intel C206 platform to optimizes PCIe
allocation. Expect a brand-new gaming style you’ve never experienced before!
ASUS P8B WS
1-3
CUDA parallel computing power supported
The motherboard will achieve outstanding and dependable performance in the
role of a Personal Supercomputer when working in tangent with discrete CUDA
technology—providing unprecedented return on investment. Users can count on
up to 4 Tesla GPUs that are plugged into P8B WS for intensive parallel computing
on tons of data, which delivers nearly 4 teraflops of performance. It is the best
choice to work as a personal supercomputer on your desk instead of a computer
cluster in a room.
Quick Gate
Quick Gate is a vertical USB connector on the motherboard, allowing you to install
USB devices directly with no messy cables. This stops important data storage
devices from breaking off unexpectedly. This unique design provides a convenient
and safe way to install data and applications on your PC.
Diag. LED
Diag. LED checks key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD) in
sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the LED next
to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This usr-friendly
design provides an intuitional way to locate the root problem within a second.
G.P. Diagnosis Card (Bundled)
Bundled with the P8B WS, the G.P. Diagnosis card double checks the system by
effortlessly and quickly providing precise info every time you switch on your PC.
1.3.3
ASUS features
8+2 Phase Power Design
To fully unleash the latest Intel® Sandy Bridge CPU´s potential, this motherboard
has adopted a brand new 8-phase VRM power design. It delivers high power
efficiency and supreme overclocking ability. Furthermore, high quality power
components can effectively lower system temperature to ensure longer component
lifespan. This motherboard also features an extra 2-phase power dedicated to
integrated memory controller.
MemOK!
Any Memory is A-OK!
MemOK! quickly ensures memory boot compatibility. This remarkable memory
rescue tool requires a mere push of a button to patch memory issues. MemOK!
determines failsafe settings and dramatically improves your system boot success.
Get your system up and running in no time!
1-4
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
AI Suite II
One-stop Access to Innovative ASUS Features
With its fast user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all exclusive
ASUS features and allows you to supervise overclocking, energy management
and fan speed control, voltage and sensor readings, even interact with your mobile
via Bluetooth technology. All in one place so you enjoy different functions without
switching utilities back and forth.
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the
overclocking capability.
ASUS Fanless Design—Heat-pipe solution
The Heat Pipe design effectively directs the heat generated by the vCore
area to the heatsink near the back IO ports, where it can be carried away by
existing airflow from CPU fan. The purpose of the innovative heat pipe design
on this motherboard is that the groundbreaking fanless design does not have
lifetime problems as a chipset fan does. The Heat Pipe design is the most
reliable fanless thermal solution to date.
DO NOT uninstall the heat-pipe by yourself. Doing so may bend the tubing and
affect the heat dissipation performance.
Fan Xpert
Active Quiet & Cool
ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows users to adjust both the CPU and chassis
fan speed according to different ambient temperature, which is caused
by different climate conditions in different geographic regions and system
loading. Built-in variety of useful profiles offer flexible controls of fan speed to
achieve a quiet and cool environment.
ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer
components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.
EFI BIOS(EZ Mode)
Flexible, Easy BIOS Interface
ASUS brand new EFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface that goes beyond
traditional keyboard BIOS input to enable more flexible and convenient
mouse controls. Users can easily navigate the EFI BIOS with the same
smoothness as their favorite operating system, while the exclusive EZ Mode
displays frequently-accessed setup info with no additional steps needed to
enter Advanced Mode for more settings.
ASUS P8B WS
1-5
ASUS Q-Design
DIY quickly, DIY easily!
ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-LED, Q-DIMM, and
Q-Slot design speed up and simplify the DIY process!
ASUS Q-Connector
Make connection quick and accurate!
The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front
panel cables in one easy step with one complete module. This unique
module eliminates the trouble of plugging in one cable at a time, making
connection quick and accurate.
ASUS EZ Flash Utility
Simply update BIOS from a USB flash disk before entering the OS
EZ Flash Utility is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply launch this tool
and update BIOS from a USB flash disk before entering the OS. You can
update your BIOS only in a few clicks without preparing an additional floppy
diskette or using an OS-based flash utility.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data
from a USB flash disk containing the BIOS file.
Precision Tweaker 2
Allows you to fine-tune the CPU voltage in 0.01V steps and DRAM voltage in
0.01V steps to achieve the most precise setting for the ultimate overclocking
configuration.
IEEE 1394a interface
IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video
appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals
& other PC portable devices.
S/PDIF-out on Back I/O Port
This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio
systems via coaxial and optical S/PDIF-out (SONY-PHILIPS Digital Interface)
jacks. It allows to transfer digital audio without converting to analog format and
keeps the best signal quality.
1-6
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
ASUS Crystal Sound
8 Channel Audio Codec
The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Definition Audio, previously
codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit
audio output, true BD lossless sound, jack-sensing feature, retasking
functions and multi-streaming technology.
ASUS P8B WS
1-7
1-8
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
This chapter lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It
includes description of the jumpers and
connectors on the motherboard.
Chapter 2: Hardware
2
information
Chapter summary
2
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1
Motherboard overview................................................................. 2-2
Building your computer system ............................................... 2-30
Starting up for the first time...................................................... 2-46
Turning off the computer........................................................... 2-47
ASUS P8B WS
2.1
Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components
or change any motherboard settings.
•
•
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.
Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely
grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid
damaging them due to static electricity.
•
•
Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic
pad or in the bag that came with the component.
•
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power
supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power
supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard,
peripherals, or components.
ASUS P8B WS
2-1
2.2
Motherboard overview
2.2.1
Motherboard layout
Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and
internal connectors.
2-2
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.2
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Switches/Slots
Page
2-4
1.
2.
3.
4.
LGA1155 CPU Socket
Power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)
DDR3 DIMM slots
2-28
2-5
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN,
4-pin CHA_FAN1-3, 3-pin PWR_FAN)
2-24
5.
6.
7.
GPU Boost Switch
MemOK! switch
2-13
2-14
2-22
USB 2.0 connectors
(Type A: USB7/8; 10-1 pin USB910; USB1112; USB1314)
8.
9.
Intel® C206 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])
Intel® C206 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])
2-20
2-21
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
Standby Power LED
2-19
2-29
2-18
2-12
2-26
2-25
2-23
2-23
2-19
2-25
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
EPU Switch
TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)
Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)
Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CHAFAN_SEL)
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
ASUS P8B WS
2-3
2.2.3
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1155 socket designed for the
Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i3 series Desktop Processors and Intel® Xeon® E3-
1200 series Server/Workstation Processors.
Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
•
Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on
the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer
immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP
cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost
of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related.
•
•
Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return
Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes
with the cap on the LGA1155 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.
2-4
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.4
System memory
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory
Modules (DIMM) slots.
A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT
install a DDR or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot.
Recommended memory configurations
ASUS P8B WS
2-5
Memory configurations
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB unbuffered ECC or non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs
into the DIMM sockets depending on the installed CPU.
•
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.
The max. 32GB memory capacity can be supported with DIMMs of 8GB
(or above). ASUS will update QVL once the DIMMs are available on the
market.
•
•
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:
- Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit
Windows OS.
- Install a 64-bit Windows OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the
motherboard.
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).
For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a
full memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
2-6
Chapter 2: Hardware information
P8B WS Motherboard
Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR�3�-�1�3�3�3MꢀHꢁz caapabiility
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage DIMM socket
support (Optional)
1
•
2
•
4
•
Apacer
78.01GC6.9L0
1GB
2GB
SS Apacer
DS Apacer
AM5D5808DEJSBG
9
-
Apacer
78.A1GC6.9L1
AM5D5808FEQSBG
-
9
-
•
•
•
CORSAIR
CMX8GX3M4A1333C9
8GB(4 x DS
2GB)
-
9-9-9-24
1.5
•
•
•
Crucial
Crucial
Crucial
Crucial
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
G.SKILL
CT12864BA1339.8FF
BL25664BN1337.16FF(XMP)
CT25664BA1339.16FF
CT25672BA1339.18FF
EBJ10UE8BDF0-DJ-F
EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F
EBJ21UE8BDF0-DJ-F
F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT
1GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
SS MICRON
DS
D9KPT
9
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
-
7-7-7-24
1.65
DS MICRON
DS MICRON
SS ELPIDA
SS ELPIDA
DS ELPIDA
D9KPT
9
-
•
•
D9KPT(ECC)
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
D3 128M8CE9 2GB
9
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4GB ( 2x DS G.SKILL
2GB )
9-9-9-24
1.5
•
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-10666CL8D-4GBHK(XMP)
F3-10666CL7D-4GBPI(XMP)
F3-10666CL7D-4GBRH(XMP)
4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
8-8-8-21
7-7-7-21
7-7-7-21
8-8-8-24
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.35
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.3
1.5
1.3
1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
F3-10666CL8D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL
GET316GB1333C9QC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GB34GB1333C7DC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GV34GB1333C7DC
8GB ( 2x DS
4GB )
8GB ( 2x DS
4GB )
16GB (
DS
4x 4GB )
GEIL
4GB ( 2x DS GEIL
2GB )
GL1L128M88BA115FW 9-9-9-24
GL1L128M88BA15FW 7-7-7-24
GEIL
4GB(2 x DS GEIL
2GB)
GEIL
4GB(2 x DS GEIL
2GB)
GL1L128M88BA12N
-
9-9-9-24
7-7-7-24
GEIL
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
-
Hynix
HMT112U6TFR8A-H9
HMT325U6BFR8C-H9
HMT125U6BFR8C-H9
HMT125U6TFR8A-H9
HMT351U6BFR8C-H9
FLFE85F-C8KM9
1GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
1GB
2GB
SS Hynix
SS Hynix
DS Hynix
DS Hynix
DS Hynix
SS Kingmax
H5TC1G83TFR
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hynix
H5TQ2G83BFR
-
-
Hynix
H5TQ1G83BFRH9C
H5TC1G83TFR
9
-
-
Hynix
-
Hynix
H5TQ2G83BFR
-
-
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
Kingston
Kingston
Kingston
KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A
-
-
FLFE85F-B8KL9
DS KINGMAX KFB8FNLXL-BNF-15A
-
-
FLFF65F-C8KM9
DS Kingmax
SS Elpida
KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
D1288JPNDPLD9U
-
-
-
KVR1333D3N9/1G
KVR1333D3N9/2G
9
9
9
1.5
1.5
1.25
DS Kingston
KHX1333C9D3UK2/4GX(XMP) 4GB ( 2x DS
2GB )
-
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1
MT16JF25664AZ-1G4F1
MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
SS Micron
SS MICRON
SS Micron
SS Micron
DS MICRON
DS Micron
D9LGQ
D9KPT
D9LGK
D9LGK
D9KPT
D9LGK
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
9
-
•
•
•
•
-
9
-
ASUS P8B WS
2-7
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ3RPR13332GK
OCZ3G1333LV3GK
2GB ( 2x SS
1GB )
-
-
-
-
6-6-6
9-9-9
1.75
1.65
•
•
•
•
3GB(3 x SS
1GB)
SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273DH0-CH9
4GB
4GB
4GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
4GB
DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9
DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C
DS Samsung K4B2G08460
SS Samsung K4B1G0846F
SS Samsung K4B1G0846F(ECC)
9
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
K4B2G0846C
-
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
BUFFALO
ACT1GHU64B8F1333S
ACT1GHU72C8G1333S
ACT2GHU64B8G1333M
ACT2GHU64B8G1333S
ACT2GHU72D8G1333M
ACT2GHU72D8G1333S
ACT4GHU64B8H1333H
ACT4GHU72D8H1333H
FSH1333D3G-T3G(XMP)
-
-
DS Micron
DS Samsung K4B1G0846F
DS Micron D9KPT(ECC)
DS Samsung K4B1G0846F(ECC)
D9KPT
-
-
-
-
DS Hynix
DS Hynix
H5TQ2G83AFR
-
H5TQ2G83AFR(ECC)
-
-
3GB(3 x SS
1GB)
-
7-7-7-20
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13
4GB(2 x DS
2GB)
-
-
9
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
1 DIMM: Supports one module inserted in any slot as Single-channel
memory configuration.
2 DIMMs: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the blue slots or
the black slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory configuration.
4 DIMMs: Supports 4 modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as
two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration.
2-8
Chapter 2: Hardware information
P8B WS Motherboard
Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR�3�-�1�0�6�6MꢀHꢁz caapabiility
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/ Chip Brand Chip NO.
DS
Timing
Voltage DIMM socket support
(Optional)
1
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
4
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Crucial
Crucial
Crucial
Crucial
Crucial
Crucial
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
GEIL
CT12864BA1067.8FF
CT12864BA1067.8SFD
CT12872BA1067.9FF
CT25664BA1067.16FF
CT25664BA1067.16SFD
CT25672BA1067.18FF
EBJ10UE8BAW0-AE-E
EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F
EBJ11UD8BAFA-AG-E
EBJ21UE8BAW0-AE-E
EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F
GG34GB1066C8DC
1GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
SS MICRON
SS MICRON
SS MICRON
DS MICRON
DS MICRON
DS MICRON
SS ELPIDA
SS ELPIDA
DS ELPIDA
DS ELPIDA
DS ELPIDA
D9KPT
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
D9JNL
D9KPT(ECC)
D9KPT
D9JNL
D9KPT(ECC)
J1108BABG-DJ-E
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
J5308BASE-AC-E
J1108BABG-DJ-E
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
8
7
-
•
•
•
4GB ( 2x DS GEIL
2GB )
GL1L128M88BA115FW 8-8-8-20 1.3
Hynix
HMT112U6AFP8C-G7N0
HYMT112U64ZNF8-G7
HMT125U6AFP8C-G7N0
HYMT125U64ZNF8-G7
KVR1066D3N7/1G
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
1GB
2GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
SS HYNIX
SS HYNIX
DS HYNIX
DS HYNIX
SS Kingston
DS Elpida
H5TQ1G83AFPG7C
HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G7
H5TQ1G83AFPG7C
HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G7
D1288JPNDPLD9U
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
8ZF22 D9KPV
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
8
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hynix
-
Hynix
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hynix
-
Kingston
Kingston
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
1.5
KVR1066D3N7/2G
1.5
MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1
MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1
MT9JSF12872AZ-1G1F1
SS MICRON
SS MICRON
SS MICRON
DS MICRON
DS MICRON
DS MICRON
-
D9KPT
-
D9KPT(ECC)
-
MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2GB
MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2GB
MT18JSF25672AZ-1G1F1 2GB
8ZF22 D9KPV
-
D9KPT
-
D9KPT(ECC)
-
SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CF8
4GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
1GB
DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCF8
1.5
Elixir
M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-BE
M2Y2G64CB8HC5N-BE
M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-BE
3DU3191A-10
DS
DS Elixir
DS
DS Qimonda
-
-
-
-
-
-
Elixir
N2CB1G80CN-BE
-
Elixir
WINTEC
-
-
-
IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F
7
ASUS P8B WS
2-9
2.2.5
Expansion slots
Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards.
Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard
components.
Slot No. Slot Description
1
2
3
4
5
6
PCIe 2.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)
PCIe 2.0 x16_2 slot (x8 mode)
PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot
PCIe 2.0 x16_3 slot (x4 mode)
PCI1 slot
PCIe 2.0 x16_4 slot (x4 mode)
2-10
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Standard Interrupt assignments
IRQ
0
Priority
Standard function
1
System Timer
1
2
Keyboard Controller
Programmable Interrupt
Communications Port (COM1)
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
Reserved
2
-
4
12
13
14
15
3
5
6
7
Reserved
8
System CMOS/Real Time Clock
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
Reserved
9
4
10
11
12
13
14
5
6
7
8
Numeric Data Processor
Primary IDE Channel
9
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A
B
C
D
E
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
F
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
G
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
H
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
PCIEx16_1
PCIEx16_2
PCIEx16_3
PCIEx16_4
PCIEx1_1
shared
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
shared
–
shared
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
PCI1
shared
–
–
–
shared
shared
–
VIA1394
–
–
–
Asmedia USB3.0
LAN1 (82574)
LAN2 (82574)
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
SATA Controller 1
SATA Controller 2
USB 2.0 Controller 1
USB 2.0 Controller 2
HD Audio
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
shared
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
I.G.D. DT
shared
–
ASUS P8B WS
2-11
2.2.6
Onboard switches
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.
1.
EPU switch
Turning this switch to Enable will automatically detect the current PC loadings
and intelligently moderate the power consumption.
For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when
the system is powered off.
2-12
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.
GPU Boost switch
Turning this switch to Enable will automatically optimize the system for fast,
yet stable GPU speed.
For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when
the system is powered off.
The GPU Boost Switch functions only when you install the DESKTOP CPU that
supports onboard graphics.
ASUS P8B WS
2-13
3.
MemOK! switch
Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause
system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights
continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! switch until the DRAM_LED starts
blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.
•
•
Refer to section 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the
DRAM_LED.
The DRAM_LED also lights when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn
off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.
•
•
The MemOK! switch does not function under Windows™ OS environment.
During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory
settings. It takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe
settings. If the test fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe
settings. The blinking speed of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating
different test processes.
•
•
Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when
each timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the
whole tuning process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the
DIMMs with ones recommended in the Memory QVL (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 fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK!
switch to boot and load BIOS default settings. A messgae 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.
2-14
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.7
Onboard LEDs
1.
POST State LEDs
POST State LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and
HDD) in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found,
the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is
solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root
problem within seconds.
2.
GPU Boost LED
The GPU Boost LED lights when the GPU Boost switch is turned to Enable.
ASUS P8B WS
2-15
3.
EPU LED
The EPU LED lights when the EPU switch is turned to Enable.
4.
Standby power LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate
that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder
that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below
shows the location of the onboard LED.
2-16
Chapter 2: Hardware information
5.
DRAM LED
The DRAM_LED lights when the installed DIMMs incompatible with the
motherboard or improperly installed. When using the MemOK! switch for
automatic memory compatibility tuning, the DRAM_LED will blink.
ASUS P8B WS
2-17
2.2.8
Jumper
1.
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in
CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup
parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button
cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup
information such as system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM
1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on
pins 2-3 for about 5–10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the <Del> 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.
2-18
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.
Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CHAFAN_SEL)
These jumpers allow you to switch for fan pin selection. The CHAFAN_SEL
jumper is for the front fans and rear fans control. Set to pins 1–2 when using
3-pin fans or pins 2–3 when using 4-pin fans.
•
•
If you use a 4-pin fan but set the jumper to pin 1-2, the fan you installed may
not work.
If you use a 3-pin fan but set the jumper for a 4-pin fan, the fan control will not
work and the fan you installed will always run at full speed.
ASUS P8B WS
2-19
2.2.9
Internal connectors
1.
Intel® C206 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [gray])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial
ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables.
•
These connectors are set to [IDE Mode] by default. If you intend to create
a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in
the BIOS to [RAID Mode]. Refer to section �.5.5 SATA Configuration for
details.
•
•
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID configurations or the
manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI
Mode]. Refer to section �.5.5 SATA Configuration for details.
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using
Serial ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if
you are using Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.
2-20
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.
Intel® C206 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical
disc drives via Serial ATA 3.0 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® C206 chipset.
•
These connectors are set to [IDE Mode] by default. If you intend to create a
Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the
BIOS to [RAID Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.4 SATA Configuration for details.
•
•
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to section 4.4 RAID configurations or
the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI
Mode]. Refer to section �.5.5 SATA Configuration for details.
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using
Serial ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if
you are using Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.
ASUS P8B WS
2-21
3.
USB 2.0 connectors
(Type A: USB7/8; 10-1 pin USB910; USB1112; USB1314)
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable
to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the
back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0
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.
2-22
Chapter 2: Hardware information
4.
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)
This connector is for an IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back
of the system chassis.
Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage
the motherboard!
The IEEE 1394a module is purchased separately.
5.
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)
port(s). 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.
ASUS P8B WS
2-23
6.
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2/3; 3-pin PWR_FAN)
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!
•
•
The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan
power.
If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis
fan cable to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2,
CHA_FAN3 for better thermal environment.
2-24
Chapter 2: Hardware information
7.
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that
supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end
of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.
•
•
We recommend that you connect a high-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 front panel audio module to this
connector, set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]; if you
want to connect an AC'97 front panel audio module to this connector, set
the item to [AC97]. By default, this connector is set to [HD].
8.
Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)
This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back
of the system chassis.
The COM module is purchased separately.
ASUS P8B WS
2-25
9.
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 TPM system
also helps enhance network security, protects digital identities, and ensures
platform integrity. This connector can also serve for G.P. Diagnosis card
installtion.
G.P. Diagnosis card layout
LED 0 and 1
Power Switch. Press
to turn ON or OFF the
computer.
Reset Button.
Press to restart the
computer.
Card connector
2-26
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Installing G.P. Diagnosis card
Ensure to turn off the power supply unit before installing the diagnosis card to
avoid electrical shock hazard.
1.
2.
Locate the TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) on the motherboard.
With the LEDs of the diagnosis
card facing to the PCIe slots, align
the card connector with the TPM
connector and press firmly until
the card sits on the connector
completely.
Code table for G.P. Diagnosis card
15, 19 Initiate chip
AC
AA
00
OS in PIC mode
OS in APIC mode
E0
Check and wake up system
2B-2F Prepare system for memory
detection and sizing
Leave BIOS and pass control
to OS
32
34
98
97
Early CPU initiation
Wake up AP
01
03
04
05
10
30
40
S1
S3
Detect PS2 mouse/keyboard
Initiate VGA BIOS
S4
S5
9A-9D USB initiation
Resume from S1
Resume from S3
Resume from S4
A2
B2
Detect IDE
Initiate option ROM
ASUS P8B WS
2-27
10. ATX power connectors
(24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs
are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper
orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
•
For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply
unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version)
and provides a minimum power of 350 W.
•
•
Do not forget to connect the 8-pin EATX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system
will not boot.
Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended 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 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.
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.
2-28
Chapter 2: Hardware information
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 IDE LED 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.
ASUS P8B WS
2-29
2.3
Building your computer system
2.3.1
Additional tools and components to build a PC
system
1 bag of screws
Philips (cross) screwdriver
PC chassis
Power supply unit
Intel LGA 1155 CPU
Intel LGA 1155 compatible CPU Fan
DIMM
SATA hard disk drive
SATA optical disc drive (optional)
Graphics card (optional)
The tools and components in the table above are not included in the
motherboard package.
2-30
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.2
1
CPU installation
A
B
2
3
ASUS P8B WS
2-31
4
5
C
A
B
6
2-32
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.3
CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation
Apply the Thermal Interface
Material to the CPU heatsink
and CPU before you install the
heatsink and fan if necessary.
To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
A
1
2
B
B
A
3
4
ASUS P8B WS
2-33
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
1
2
A
B
B
A
2-34
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.4
1
DIMM installation
2
3
To remove a DIMM
B
A
ASUS P8B WS
2-35
2.3.5
Motherboard installation
The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may
vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same.
1
2
2-36
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
ASUS P8B WS
2-37
2.3.6
1
ATX Power connection
2
OR
2-38
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.7
1
SATA device connection
OR
2
ASUS P8B WS
2-39
2.3.8
Front I/O Connector
To install ASUS Q-Connector
1
2
To install USB Connector
To install front panel audio
connector
AAFP
USB
The actual location may vary with motherboards.
2-40
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.9
Expension Card installation
To install PCIe x16 cards
To install PCIe x1 cards
To install PCI cards
ASUS P8B WS
2-41
2.3.10
Rear panel connection
Rear panel connectors
1. PS/2 mouse and keyboard port
2. IEEE 1394a port
7. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4
8. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2
9. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port
10. Optical S/PDIF Out port
11. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2
12. Audio I/O ports**
3. LAN (RJ-45) port 2*
4. DVI port
5. LAN (RJ-45) port 1*
6. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6
*and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port and audio port definitions.
2-42
Chapter 2: Hardware information
•
Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used
under Windows® OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation.
•
•
USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only.
We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0
ports for faster and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.
* LAN port LED indications
Activity Link LED
Speed LED
ACT/LINK SPEED
LED LED
Status
Description
Status
OFF
Description
OFF
No link
10 Mbps connection
100 Mbps connection
1 Gbps connection
ORANGE
BLINKING
Linked
ORANGE
GREEN
Data activity
LAN port
**Audio 2, 4, �, or 8�channel configuration
Port
H e a d s e t 4-channel
2-channel
6-channel
8-channel
Light Blue Line In
Line In
Line In
Line In
Lime
Line Out
Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Front Speaker Out
Mic In
Pink
Mic In
Mic In
Mic In
Orange
Black
Gray
–
–
–
–
Center/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Out
–
Center/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Out
Side Speaker Out
Rear Speaker Out
–
2.3.11
Audio I/O connections
Audio I/O ports
Connect to Headphone and Mic
ASUS P8B WS
2-43
Connect to Stereo Speakers
Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers
2-44
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers
ASUS P8B WS
2-45
2.4
Starting up for the first time
1.
2.
3.
After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
Be sure that all switches are off.
Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system
chassis.
4.
5.
Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge
protector.
Turn on the devices in the following order:
a. Monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power
6.
After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case
lights up. For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up
when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with the
“green” standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may
light up or change from orange to green after the system LED turns on.
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are
running, the BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table below) or
additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within
30 seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have
failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call
your retailer for assistance.
BIOS Beep
Description
One short beep
VGA detected
Quick boot set to disabled
No keyboard detected
One continuous beep followed by two short No memory detected
beeps then a pause (repeated)
One continuous beep followed by three No VGA detected
short beeps
One continuous beep followed by four Hardware component failure
short beeps
7.
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 3.
2-46
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.5
Turning off the computer
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds
puts the system on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting.
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the
soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 3.7 Power Menu for
details.
ASUS P8B WS
2-47
2-48
Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter tells how to change the
system settings through the BIOS Setup
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS
parameters are also provided.
BIOS setup
3
Chapter summary
3
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9
3.10
Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1
BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-1
Main menu .................................................................................... 3-5
Ai Tweaker menu.......................................................................... 3-8
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-13
Monitor menu ............................................................................. 3-24
Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-27
Tools menu ................................................................................. 3-28
Exit menu.................................................................................... 3-31
Updating BIOS............................................................................ 3-32
ASUS P8B WS
3.1
Knowing BIOS
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings
such as storage device configuration, overclocking settings, advanced power
management, and boot device configuration that are needed for system startup in
the motherboard CMOS. In normal circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply
to most conditions to ensure optimum performance. We recommend that you not
change the default BIOS settings except in the following circumstances:
•
An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and
requests you to run the BIOS Setup.
•
You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS
settings or update.
Inappropriate settings of the BIOS may result to instability or failure to boot. We
strongly recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help
of a trained service personnel.
3.2
BIOS setup program
A BIOS setup program is provided for BIOS item modification. When you start up
the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program.
Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility.
Otherwise, POST continues with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, press <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or press
the reset button on the system chassis to restart the system. You can also turn the
system off and then turn it back on to restart the system. Do this last option only if
the first two failed.
•
•
•
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. See section 3.9 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 2.2.7
Jumper for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
The BIOS setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being
a menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various submenus and select
from the available options using a keyboard or a USB mouse.
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 button in the EZ Mode/Advanced Mode screen.
ASUS P8B WS
3-1
3.2.1
EZ Mode
By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program.
The EZ Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and
allows you to select the display language, system performance mode and boot
device priority. To access the Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then
select Advanced Mode.
The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer
to the Setup Mode item in section 3.7 Boot memu for details.
Selects the display language
of the BIOS setup program
Clicks to display all fan
speeds if available
Displays the CPU/motherboard
temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage
output, CPU/chassis/power fan speed
Exits the BIOS setup program without saving
the changes, saves the changes and resets
the system, or enters the Advanced Mode
Exit/Advanced Mode
EFI BIOS Utility - EZ Mode
P8B WS
English
BIOS Version : 0301
Build Date : 01/24/2011
CPU Type : Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-2300 CPU 0 @ 2.80GHz Speed : 2800 MHz
Total Memory : 1024 MB (DDR3 1066MHz)
Monday [01/24/2011]
Temperature
Voltage
Fan Speed
CPU_FAN
CHA_FAN1
CPU
MB
+113.0ºF/+45.0ºC
+75.2ºF/+40.0ºC
CPU
3.3V
1.248V
3.344V
5V
5.160V
3325RPM PWR_FAN1
N/A CHA_FAN2
N/A
N/A
12V
12.248V
System Performance
Quiet
Performance
Boot Priority
Energy Saving
Normal
Use the mouse to drag or keyboard to navigate to decide the boot priority.
Boot Menu(F8)
Default(F5)
Power Saving mode
Normal mode
Selects the boot
device priority
Loads optimized default
Selects the boot device priority
Displays the system properties of
the selected mode on the right hand
side
ASUS Optimal
mode
•
•
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.
3-2
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.2.2
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 EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode.
Menu
items
Configuration
fields
General
help
Menu bar
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Target DRAM Speed : 1066MHz
Ai Overclock Tuner
[X.M.P.] When XMP is enabled BLCK
frequency, CPU ratio and memory
parameters will be auto optimized.
Auto
Auto
Memory Frequency
iGPU Max. Frequency
EPU Power Saving Mode
Auto
Disabled
>
>
>
GPU Boost
DRAM Timing Control
CPU Power Management
Ai Overclock Tuner
Auto
Manual
CPU Offset Mode Sign
CPU Voltage
+
Auto
+
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
1.165V
Enter: Select
iGPU Offset Mode Sign
iGPU Voltage
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
Auto
Auto
Auto
DRAM Voltage
1.550V
1.050V
VCCIO Voltage
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Pop-up window
Scroll bar
Submenu item
Navigation keys
Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
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
ASUS P8B WS
3-3
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 <Enter> 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.
General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected
item.
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.
3-4
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.3
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.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
BIOS Information
BIOS Version
Build Date
Choose the system default language
0301 x64
01/24/2011
7.0.2.1164
ME Version
CPU Information
Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-2300 CPU 0 @ 2.80GHz
Speed
2800 MHz
Memory Information
Total Memory
Speed
1024 MB
1066 MHz
System Language
English
System Date
System Time
Access Level
[Tue 01/25/2011]
[16:46:15]
Administrator
>
Security
Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Main\ Security
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
>
Password Description
To clear the administrator password,
key in the current password in the
Enter Current Password box,
and then press <Enter> when
prompted to create/confirm the
password.
If ONLY the Administrator's password is set,
then this only limits access to Setup and is
only asked for when entering Setup
If ONLY the User's password is set, then this
is a power on password and must be entered to
boot or enter Setup. In Setup the User will
have Administrator rights
Administrator Password
User Password
Not Installed
Not Installed
Administrator Password
User Password
•
•
If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time
Clock (RTC) RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 2.2.7 Jumper
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.
ASUS P8B WS
3-5
Administrator Password
If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the
administrator password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to
see or change only selected fields in the BIOS setup program.
To set an administrator password:
1.
2.
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press
<Enter>.
3.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To change an administrator password:
1.
2.
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then
press <Enter>.
3.
From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press
<Enter>.
4.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an
administrator password, but press <Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the
password. After you clear the password, the Administrator Password item on top
of the screen shows Not Installed.
3-6
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
User Password
If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing
the system. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not
Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a user password:
1.
2.
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press
<Enter>.
3.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To change a user password:
1.
2.
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then
press <Enter>.
3.
From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press
<Enter>.
4.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password,
but press <Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear
the password, the User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
ASUS P8B WS
3-7
3.4
Ai Tweaker menu
The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items.
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect
field values can cause the system to malfunction.
The configuration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM
model you installed on the motherboard.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Target DRAM Speed : 1066MHz
Ai Overclock Tuner
[X.M.P.] When XMP is enabled BLCK
frequency, CPU ratio and memory
parameters will be auto optimized.
Auto
Memory Frequency
Auto
iGPU Max. Frequency
EPU Power Saving Mode
Auto
Disabled
>
>
>
GPU Boost
DRAM Timing Control
CPU Power Management
CPU Offset Mode Sign
CPU Voltage
+
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
1.165V
Auto
Enter: Select
iGPU Offset Mode Sign
iGPU Voltage
+
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
Auto
Auto
Auto
DRAM Voltage
1.550V
1.050V
VCCIO Voltage
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
VCCSA Voltage
1.050V
1.800V
Auto
Auto
CPU PLL Voltage
Load-Line Calibration
CPU Spread Spectrum
Auto
Auto
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
3-8
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]
Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU
internal frequency. This item appears only when you install X.M.P. memory
modules to the motherboard. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration
options:
[Auto]
Loads the optimal settings for the system.
[X.M.P.]
If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory
Profile (X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the profiles
supported by your memory modules for optimizing the system
performance.
BCLK/PEG Frequency [XXX]
Allows you to adjust the CPU and VGA frequency to enhance the system
performance. This item only appears when you set Ai Overclock Tuner to
[X.M.P.]. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the
desired value using the numeric keypad. The values range from 80.0MHz to
300.0MHz.
Memory Frequency [Auto]
Allows you to set the memory operating frequency. The configuration options vary
with the BCLK/PEG Frequency item settings.
Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become
unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting.
iGPU Max. Frequency [Auto]
Allows you to adjust the iGPU Max. frequency. Set this item to [Auto] to optimize
the frequency depending on the system loading. Or use the <+> and <-> keys to
adjust the value.
iGPU Max. Frequency is available only when you install a desktop processor
that supports onboard graphics to the motherboard and there is no other VGA
cards installed on the motherboard.
EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
EPU Setting [Auto]
This item appears only when you set the EPU Power Saving Mode item to
[Enabled.] and allows you to select the EPU power saving mode.
Configuration options: [AUTO] [Light Power Saving Mode] [Medium Power Saving
Mode] [Max Power Saving Mode]
ASUS P8B WS
3-9
GPU Boost
GPU Boost accelerates the integrated GPU for extreme graphics performance.
Configuration options: [Ok] [Cancel]
DRAM Timing Control
The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use
the <+> and <-> 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.
CPU Power Management
The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features.
CPU Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to manually adjust the maximum non-turbo CPU ratio. Use <+> and
<-> keys to adjust the value. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU
model.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology.
[Disabled] Disables this function.
[Enabled] The operating system dynamically adjusts the processor voltage
and core frequency which may result in decreased average
consumption and decreased average heat production.
Turbo Mode [Enabled]
This item appears only when you set the Enhanced Intel SpeedStep
Technology item to [Enabled].
[Disabled] Disables this function.
[Enabled] Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in
specific condition.
The following five items appear only when you set the Enhanced Intel
SpeedStep Technology and Turbo Mode items to [Enabled].
Long Duration Power Limit [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Long Duration Maintained [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Short Duration Power Limit [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
3-10
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Primary Plane Current Limit [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Secondary Plane Current Limit [Auto]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using
the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use the <+> and
<-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the
keyboard and press the <Enter> key.
CPU Offset Mode Sign [+]
[+]
[–]
To offset the voltage by a positive value.
To offset the voltage by a negative value.
CPU Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU voltage. The values range from -0.635V to 0.635V with
a 0.005V interval.
iGPU Offset Mode Sign [+]
[+]
[–]
To offset the voltage by a positive value.
To offset the voltage by a negative value.
iGPU Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the iGPU voltage. The values range from -0.635V to 0.635V with
a 0.005V interval.
iGPU Offset Mode Sign and iGPU Voltage are available only when you install
a desktop processor that supports onboard graphics to the motherboard and
there is no other VGA cards installed on the motherboard.
DRAM Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 2.20V with a
0.01V interval.
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.5V may
damage the CPU permanently. We recommend you install the DIMMs with the
voltage requirement below 1.5V.
VCCIO Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the VCCIO voltage. The values range from 0.90V to 1.70V with a
0.01V interval.
ASUS P8B WS
3-11
VCCSA Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the VCCSA voltage. The values range from 0.77V to 1.60V with a
0.01V interval.
CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU PLL voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 2.20V with
a 0.01V interval.
Load-Line Calibration [Auto]
Load-line is defined by Intel VRM spec and affects CPU voltage. The CPU working
voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration
would get higher voltage and better overclocking performance, but increase the
CPU and VRM thermal. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specification.
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]
[Auto]
Automatic configuration.
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.
Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
3-12
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5
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.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
CPU Configuration Parameters
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
CPU Configuration
System Agent Configuration
PCH Configuration
SATA Configuration
USB Configuration
Onboard Devices Configuration
APM
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
3.5.1
Trusted Computing
TPM SUPORT [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the TPM support.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ Trusted Computing
>
TPM Configuration
Enables or Disables TPM support.
O.S. will not show TPM. Reset of
platform is required.
TPM SUPPORT
Disabled
This item appears only when you install TPM module to the motherboard.
ASUS P8B WS
3-13
�.5.2
CPU Configuration
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS
automatically detects.
The items shown in this screen may be different due to the CPU you installed.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ CPU Configuration
>
CPU Configuration
Adjust Non-Turbo Ratio
Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-2300 CPU @ 2.80GHz
EM64T
Supported
2800 MHz
206a6
28
Processor Speed
Processor Stepping
Microcode Revision
L1 Cache
128kb
1024kb
6144kb
4
L2 Cache
L3 Cache
Processor Cores
Intel HT Technology
CPU Ratio Range
CPU Current Ratio
Supported
16-28
28
CPU Ratio
Auto
Enabled
All
Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor
Active Processor Cores
Limit CPUID Maximum
Execute Disable Bit
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
Disabled
Enabled
Disabled
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
Intel Virtualization Technology
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Turbo Mode
CPU C1E
CPU C3 Report
CPU C6 Report
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
CPU Ratio [Auto]
Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the BCLK Frequency.
Use <+> and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to
your CPU model.
Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.
Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool
down.
3-14
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Active Processor Cores [All]
Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor
package. Configuration options: [All] [1] [2] [3]
Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables this function.
Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for
CPUs with extended CPUID functions.
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).
Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.
[Enabled]
Intel(R) Virtualization Technology [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables this function.
Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems
separately and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually
function as several systems.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology
(EIST).
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
The CPU runs at its default speed.
The operating system controls the CPU speed.
Turbo Mode [Enabled]
This item appears only when you set the Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology
item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable or disable the Intel® Turbo Mode
Technology.
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables this function.
Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in
specific condition.
CPU C1E [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables this function.
Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in
order to enable the Enhanced Halt State.
CPU C3 Report [Enabled]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS.
CPU C6 Report [Enabled]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS.
ASUS P8B WS
3-15
�.5.�
System Agent Configuration
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ System Agent Configuration
>
System Agent Configuration
Initiate Graphic Adapter
iGPU Memory
Select which graphics controller to use as
the primary boot device.
PEG/PCI
64M
Render Standby
Enabled
Disabled
iGPU Multi-Monitor
Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI]
Allows you to select the desired graphics controller as the primary boot device.
Configuration options: [iGPU] [PCI/iGPU] [PCI/PEG] [PEG/PCI]
iGPU Memory [64M]
Allows you to select the iGPU share memory size.
Configuration options: [32M [64M] [96M] [128M]
Render Standby [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Render Standby by the internal graphics
device. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the internal graphics device multi-monitor support
for the add-on VGA devices. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-16
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
�.5.4
PCꢀ Configuration
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Exit
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ PCH Configuration
>
PCH Chipset Configuration
Enabled/Disabled the High Precision
Event Timer.
High Precision Timer
Enabled
High Precision Timer [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
�.5.5
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.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ SATA Configuration
>
SATA Configuration
SATA Mode
(1) IDE Mode. (2) AHCI Mode. (3)
RAID Mode.
IDE Mode
Serial-ATA Controller 0
Serial-ATA Controller 1
S.M.A.R.T. Status Check
Enhanced
Enhanced
Enabled
SATA6G_1 (Gray)
SATA6G_2 (Gray)
SATA3G_3 (Blue)
SATA3G_4 (Blue)
SATA3G_5 (Blue)
SATA3G_6 (Blue)
Not Present
Not Present
ASUS CB-521 ATAPI
Not Present
Not Present
Not Present
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
ASUS P8B WS
3-17
SATA Mode [IDE Mode]
Allows you to set the SATA configuration.
[Disabled]
Disables the SATA function.
[IDE Mode]
Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk
drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices.
[AHCI Mode] 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 Mode] Set to [RAID Mode] when you want to create a RAID configuration
from the SATA hard disk drives.
Serial-ATA Controller 0 [Enhanced]
This item appears only when you set SATA Mode to [IDE Mode]
[Disabled]
Disables the SATA function.
[Enhanced]
Set to [Enhanced] to support more than four SATA devices.
[Compatible] Set to [Compatible] when using Windows 98/NT/2000/MS-DOS.
Up to four SATA devices are supported under these operating
systems.
Serial-ATA Controller 1 [Enhanced]
This item appears only when you set SATA Mode to [IDE Mode]
[Disabled]
Disables the SATA function.
[Enhanced]
Set to [Enhanced] to support more than four SATA devices.
[Compatible] Set to [Compatible] when using Windows 98/NT/2000/MS-DOS.
Up to four SATA devices are supported under these operating
systems.
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: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Hot Plug [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the hot plug function of each SATA port. This item
appears only when you set SATA Mode to [AHCI Mode] or [RAID Mode]
3-18
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
�.5.�
USB Configuration
The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ USB Configuration
>
USB Configuration
Enables Legacy USB support. AUTO
option disables legacy support if no
USB devices are connected. DISABLE
option will keep USB devices
USB Devices:
1 Drive, 2 Hubs
available only for EFI applications.
Legacy USB Support
Legacy USB3.0 Support
EHCI Hand-off
Enabled
Enabled
Disabled
The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is
detected, the item shows None.
Legacy USB Support [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.
Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems
(OS).
[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.
Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the function.
[Enabled]
Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating
systems (OS).
EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the function.
Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI
hand-off feature.
ASUS P8B WS
3-19
�.5.7
Onboard Devices Configuration
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Advanced\ Onboard Devices Configuration
>
Enabled/Disabled Azalia HD Audio
HD Audio Controller
Front Panel Type
SPDIF Out Type
Enabled
HD
SPDIF
VIA 1394 Controller
Enabled
Intel LAN2 Controller
Intel LAN2 OPROM
Enabled
Enabled
Intel LAN1 Controller
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Disabled
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Intel LAN1 OPROM
Enter: Select
Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller
Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
>
Serial Port Configuration
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
HD Audio Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the controller.
[Enabled]
Enables the High Definition Audio Controller.
The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller
item 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.
[HD]
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 [SPDIF] for SPDIF audio output.
Sets to [HDMI] for HDMI audio output.
3-20
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
VIA 1394 Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the controller.
Enables the onboard IEEE 1394a controller.
Intel LAN2 Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the controller.
[Enabled]
Enables the Intel LAN2 controller.
Intel LAN2 OPROM [Disabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you
to enable or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Intel LAN2 controller.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Intel LAN1 Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the controller.
[Enabled]
Enables the Intel LAN1 controller.
Intel LAN1 OPROM [Disabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you
to enable or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Intel LAN1 controller.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the controller.
[Enabled]
Enables the Asmedia USB 3.0 controller.
Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support [Disabled]
[Disabled]
Disables the support.
[Enabled]
Enables the Asmedia USB 3.0 battery charging support.
Serial Port Configuration
The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the serial port configuration.
This item functions only if there is a serial port (COM1) connector on the
motherboard.
Serial Port [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the serial port (COM).
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Change Settings [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4]
Allows you to select the Serial Port base address. This item appears when
Serial Port is set to [Enabled].
Configuration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h; IRQ=3]
[IO=3E8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]
ASUS P8B WS
3-21
3.5.8
APM
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced\ APM
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
>
Restore AC Power Loss
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard
Power On By PS/2 Mouse
Power On By PCI
Power Off
Specify what state to go to when
power is re-applied after a power
failure (G3 state).
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Power On By PCIE
Power On By Ring
Power On By RTC
Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]
[Power Off]
[Power On]
[Last State]
The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
The system goes into on 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 PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Space Bar]
[Ctrl-Esc]
Disables the Power On by a PS/2 keyboard.
Sets the Space Bar on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.
Sets the Ctrl+Esc key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.
[Power Key]
Sets Power key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This
feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on
the +5VSB lead.
Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the Power On by a PS/2 mouse.
Enables the Power On by a PS/2 mouse. This feature requires an
ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
Power On By PCI [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the PCI devices to generate a wake event.
Enables the PCI devices to generate a wake event.
Power On By PCIE [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
Enables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
Power On By Ring [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables Ring to generate a wake event.
Enables Ring to generate a wake event.
3-22
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
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.
ASUS P8B WS
3-23
3.6
Monitor menu
The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you
to change the fan settings.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
CPU Temperature
MB Temperature
+45ºC / +113ºF
+34ºC / +93ºF
3325 RPM
N/A
CPU Fan Speed
Chassis Fan 1 Speed
Chassis Fan 2 Speed
Chassis Fan 3 Speed
Power Fan Speed
CPU Q-Fan Control
N/A
N/A
N/A
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
Enabled
600 RPM
Standard
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit
CPU Fan Profile
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
Chassis Q-Fan Control
Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit
Chassis Fan Profile
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Scroll down to display the following items:
CPU Voltage
+1.184 V
+3.312 V
+5.080 V
+12.192 V
3.3V Voltage
5V Voltage
12V Voltage
Anti Surge Support
Enabled
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxx�C/xxx�F]
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.
CPU Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
Power Fan 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.
3-24
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.
Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM]
[600 RPM]
CPU Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and
allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust
depending on the CPU temperature.
[Silent]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan
operation.
[Turbo]
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
The following four items appear only when you set CPU Fan Profile to
[Manual].
CPU Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> 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 <+> and <-> 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. The values range from 20ºC to
75ºC.
CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values
range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under 40ºC, the CPU fan
will operate at the minimum duty cycle.
Chassis Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
ASUS P8B WS
3-25
Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit [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] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600
RPM]
Chassis Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature
and allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust
depending on the chassis temperature.
[Silent]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan
operation.
[Turbo]
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.
[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
The following four items appear only when you set Chassis Fan Profile to
[Manual].
Chassis Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The
values range from 40ºC to 90ºC.
Chassis Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values
range from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature reaches the upper limit,
the chassis fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle.
Chassis Lower Temperature [40]
Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.
Chassis Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values
range from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40ºC, the chassis
fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.
CPU 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.
Anti Surge Support [Enabled]
This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-26
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.7
Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Select the keyboard NumLock state
Bootup NumLock State
Full Screen Logo
On
Enabled
Force BIOS
EZ Mode
Option ROM Messages
Setup Mode
Boot Option Priorities
Boot Option #1
P3: xxxxxxx
P4: xxxxxxx
Boot Option #2
Boot Override
>
>
P5: xxxxxxxxxxxx
P6: xxxxxxxxxxxx
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
Enter: Select
+/-: Change Opt.
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
>
>
Hard Drive BBS Priorities
CD/DVD ROM Drive BBS Priorities
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
Bootup NumLock State [On]
[On]
[Off]
Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].
Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the full screen logo display feature.
Enables the full screen logo display feature.
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature.
Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]
[Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display 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.
Setup Mode [EZ Mode]
[Advanced Mode] Sets Advanced Mode as the default screen for entering the
BIOS setup program.
[EZ Mode]
Sets EZ Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup
program.
ASUS P8B WS
3-27
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 select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS
Logo appears.
To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following:
- Press <F5> when ASUS Logo appears.
- Press <F8> after POST.
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.
3.8
Tool menu
The Tool menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an
item then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Be used to update BIOS
>
>
>
ASUS EZ Flash Utility
ASUS O.C. Profile
ASUS SPD Information
3.8.1
ASUS EZ Flash Utility
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash Utility. When you press <Enter> to start the
application.
For more details, refer to section 3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash Utility.
3-28
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
�.8.2
ASUS O.C. Profile
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Tool\ ASUS O.C. Profile
>
O.C. Profile Configuration
==========================================================
Save BIOS settings to Profile
Setup Profile1 Status :
Setup Profile2 Status :
Setup Profile3 Status :
Setup Profile4 Status :
Setup Profile5 Status :
Setup Profile6 Status :
Setup Profile7 Status :
Setup Profile8 Status :
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
Not Installed
==========================================================
Add Your CMOS Profile
Label
Save to Profile
1
1
Load CMOS Profile
Load from Profile
The Setup Profile Status items show Not Installed if no profile is created.
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 <Enter>, and then select
Yes.
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.
ASUS P8B WS
3-29
3.8.3
Asus SPD Information
Exit
EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode
Main
Back
Ai Tweaker
Advanced
Monitor
Boot
Tool
Tool\ Asus SPD Information
>
DIMM Slot #
Slot 1
Micron
Drive Xpert Mode
Manufacturer
Module Size
1024 MBytes
1066 Mhz
Maximum Bandwidth
Part Number
TF12864AZ-1G1F1
ea19a0bc
Serial Number
Product Week/Year
SPD Ext.
2/2009
JEDEC ID
JEDEC
Frequency(Mhz)
Voltage(V)
1066
1.500
7
CAS# Lantency(tCL)
RAS# to CAS#(tRCD)
RAS# Precharge(tRP)
tRAS
7
7
20
tRC
27
→←: Select Screen
↑↓: Select Item
tWR
8
4
Enter: Select
tRRD
tRFC
tWTR
tRTP
tFAW
+/-: Change Opt.
59
4
F1: General Help
F2: Previous Values
F5: Optimized Defaults
F10: Save ESC: Exit
4
20
Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2011 American Megatrends, Inc.
DIMM Slot # [Slot 1]
Allows you to select the DIMM slot and display the respective installed DIMM
information. Configuration options: [Slot 1] [Slot 2] [Slot 3] [Slot 4]
3-30
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.9
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.
Exit
Load Optimized Defaults
Save Changes & Reset
Discard Changes & Exit
ASUS EZ Mode
Launch EFI Shell from filesystem device
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.
Save Changes & Reset
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit
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.
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 <Esc>, a confirmation window appears.
Select Yes to discard changes and exit.
ASUS EZ Mode
This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen.
Launch EFI Shell from filesystem device
This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.efi)
from one of the available filesystem devices.
ASUS P8B WS
3-31
3.10 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 (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.
1.
2.
3.
ASUS Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.
ASUS EZ 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.
4.
ASUS BIOS Updater: Updates and backups the BIOS in DOS environment
using the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash disk drive.
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case
you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS
using the ASUS Update or BIOS Updater utilities.
3-32
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.10.1
ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the
motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you
to:
•
•
•
•
•
Update the BIOS directly from the Internet
Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet
Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file
Save the current BIOS file
View the BIOS version information
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard
package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an
Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Launching ASUS Update
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS
Update by clicking Update > ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet
To update the BIOS through the Internet:
1.
From the ASUS Update screen,
select Update BIOS from
Internet, and then click Next.
ASUS P8B WS
3-33
2.
Select the ASUS FTP site
nearest you to avoid network
traffic.
If you want to enable the BIOS
downgradable function and auto
BIOS backup function, check the
checkboxs before the two items
on the screen.
3.
Select the BIOS version that you
want to download. Click Next.
4.
5.
You can decide whether to
change the BIOS boot logo,
which is the image appearing
on screen during the Power-On
Self-Tests (POST). Click Yes if
you want to change the boot logo
or No to continue.
Follow the onscreen instructions
to complete the update process.
3-34
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:
1.
From the ASUS Update screen,
select Update BIOS from file,
and then click Next.
2.
Locate the BIOS file from the
Open window, click Open, and
click Next.
3.
4.
You can decide whether to
change the BIOS boot logo. Click
Yes if you want to change the
boot logo or No to continue.
Follow the onscreen instructions
to complete the update process.
•
•
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual BIOS
information vary by models.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website
at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
ASUS P8B WS
3-35
3.10.2
ASUS EZ Flash Utility
The ASUS EZ Flash Utility feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to
use a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility.
Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS
website at www.asus.com.
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash Utility:
1.
Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port.
2.
Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu
to select ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.
Exit
ASUSTek EZ Flash BIOS ROM Utility V00.75
Flash Info
MODEL: P8B WS
VER: 0301
DATE: 10/19/2011
fs0:\
Drive
Folder Info
08/05/10 10:23p
fs0:\
fs1:\
4194304
P8BWS.ROM
File Infor
MODEL:
Help Info
VER:
DATE:
[Enter] Select or Load
[Tab] Switch
[Up/Down/PageUp/PageDown/Home/End] Move
[Esc] Exit
[F2] Backup
3.
Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive field.
4.
Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the USB flash disk that contains the
latest BIOS, and then press <Enter>.
5.
Press <Tab> to switch to the Folder Info field.
6.
Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the BIOS file, and then press <Enter>
to perform the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update
process is done.
3-36
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
•
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk 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!
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and
stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See
section 3.10 Exit Menu for details.
3.10.3
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility 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 BIOS file.
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 a USB flash drive.
Recovering the BIOS
To recover the BIOS:
1.
Turn on the system.
2.
Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive, or the USB flash
drive containing the BIOS file to the USB port.
3.
The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the
utility reads the BIOS file and enters ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility automatically.
4.
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!
ASUS P8B WS
3-37
3.10.4
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
1.
Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive in FAT32/16
format and single partition.
2.
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.
3.
Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).
Booting the system in DOS environment
1.
Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the
USB port.
2.
Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo 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.
Please select boot device:
SATA: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
USB XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
UEFI: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Enter Setup
↑ and ↓ to move selection
ENTER to select boot device
ESC to boot using defaults
3.
4.
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:\>
3-38
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Backing up the current BIOS
To backup the current BIOS file using the BIOS Updater
Ensure that the USB flash drive is not write-protected and has enough free
space to save the file.
1.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[filename]and press <Enter>.
D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom
Filename Extension
The [filename] is any user-assigned filename with no more than eight
alphanumeric characters for the filename and three alphanumeric characters
for the extension.
2.
The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup
process. When BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS
prompt.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2011/04/29]
Current ROM
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
BOARD: P8B WS
VER: 0301
DATE: 01/24/2011
DATE: Unknown
PATH: A:\
BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.
Note
Saving BIOS:
ASUS P8B WS
3-39
Updating the BIOS file
To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater
1.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>.
D:\>bupdater /pc /g
2.
The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2011/04/29]
Current ROM
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
BOARD: P8B WS
VER: 0301
DATE: Unknown
DATE: 01/24/2011
PATH: A:\
A:
P8BWS.ROM
4194304 2011-01-24 17:30:48
Note
[Enter] Select or Load
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move
[Tab] Switch
[B] Backup
[V] Drive Info
[Esc] Exit
3.
Press <Tab> to switch between screen fields and use the <Up/Down/Home/
End> keys to select the BIOS file and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks
the selected BIOS file and prompts you to confirm BIOS update.
Are you sure to update BIOS?
Yes
No
4.
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 1.04 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. See Chaper 3 of your motherboard user manual for details.
•
Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS file if
you have disconnected them.
3-40
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
This chapter describes the contents of
the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
Software
4
support
Chapter summary
4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1
Support DVD information............................................................ 4-1
Software information ................................................................... 4-3
RAID configurations .................................................................. 4-11
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 4-16
ASUS P8B WS
4.1
Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista / 64-bit Vista / 7 / 64-bit
7 operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding
updates to maximize the features of your hardware.
•
Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup
procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS
documentation for detailed information.
•
Ensure that you install the Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions
before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.
4.2
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.
4.2.1
Running the 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 Make Disk
menu contains
items to create the
RAID/AHCI driver
disk.
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.
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 ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the
ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD.
ASUS P8B WS
4-1
4.2.2
Obtaining the software manuals
The software manuals are included in the support DVD. Follow the instructions
below to get the necessary software manuals.
The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the
Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the files.
1.
Click the Manual tab. Click
ASUS Motherboard Utility
Guide from the manual list on
the left.
2.
The Manual folder of the
support DVD appears. Double-
click the folder of your selected
software.
3.
Some software manuals
are provided in different
languages. Double-click
the language to show the
software manual.
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual software
manuals containing in the support DVD vary by models.
4-2
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3
Software information
Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently
guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came
with the software application for more information.
4.3.1
AI Suite II
AI Suite II is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows
users to launch and operate these utilities simultaneously.
Installing AI Suite II
To install AI Suite II on your computer
1.
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab
appears if your computer has enabled the Autorun feature.
2.
3.
Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite II.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete installation.
Using AI Suite II
AI Suite II automatically starts when you enter the Windows® operating system
(OS). The AI Suite II icon appears in the Windows® notification area. Click the icon
to open the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Click each button to select and launch a utility, to monitor the system, to update the
motherboard BIOS, to display the system information, and to customize the settings of
AI Suite II.
Click to customize
the interface
settings
Click to show the system information
Click to update the motherboard BIOS
Click to monitor sensors or
CPU frequency
Click to select a utility
•
•
The applications in the Tool menu vary with models.
The screeshots of AI Suite II in this user manual are for reference only. The
actual screenshots vary with models.
•
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website
at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
ASUS P8B WS
4-3
4.3.2
EPU
EPU is an energy-efficient tool that satisfies different computing needs. This utility
provides several modes that you can select to save system power. Selecting
Auto mode will have the system shift modes automatically according to current
system status. You can also customize each mode by configuring settings like CPU
frequency, GPU frequency, vCore Voltage, and Fan Control.
Launching EPU
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch EPU by
clicking Tool > EPU on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Displays the following
message if no VGA power
saving engine is detected.
Displays current mode
The items lighting up means
power saving engine is
activated
Displays the amount of CO2
reduced
*Shifts between the display of
Total and Current CO2 reduced
Displays the
current CPU power
Advanced settings for each mode
Displays the system
properties of each
mode
Multiple system
operating modes
*• Select From EPU Installation to show the CO2 that has been reduced
since you installed EPU.
*• Select From the Last Reset to show the total CO2 that has been reduced
since you click the Clear button
.
•
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website
at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
4-4
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.3
FAN Xpert
Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan
speeds according to different ambient temperatures caused by different climate
conditions in different geographic regions and your PC’s system loading. The
built-in variety of useful profiles offer flexible controls of fan speed to achieve a
quiet and cool environment.
Launching FAN Xpert
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch FAN Xpert
by clicking Tool > Fan Xpert on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using FAN Xpert
Click Fan Name to select a fan and then click Setting to select a preset mode for
your selected fan.
Click to select a fan profile
Click to select a fan type
Click to apply the
settings
Click to discard the
settings
Fan setting
•
•
•
•
•
Disable: disables the Fan Xpert function.
Standard: adjusts fan speed in a moderate pattern.
Silent: minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation.
Turbo: maximizes the fan speed for the best cooling effect.
Intelligent: automatically adjusts the CPU fan speed according to the ambient
temperature.
•
•
Stable: fixes the CPU fan speed to avoid noise caused by the unsteady
fan rotation. However, the fan will speed up when the temperature
exceeds 70°C.
User: Allows you to configure the CPU fan profile under certain limitations.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
ASUS P8B WS
4-5
4.3.4
Probe II
Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and
alerts you of any problem with these components. Probe II senses fan rotations,
CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. With this utility, you are
assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition.
Launching Probe II
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Probe II by
clicking Tool > Probe II on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Configuring Probe II
Click the Voltage/Temperature/Fan Speed tabs to activate the sensors or to
adjust the sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize
the time interval of sensor alerts, or change the temperature unit.
Saves your
configuration
Applies your
changes
Loads the
default threshold
values for each
sensor
Loads
your saved
configuration
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
4-6
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.5
Sensor Recorder
Sensor Recorder allows you to monitor the changes in the system voltage,
temperature, and fan speed, as well as recording the changes.
Launching Sensor Recorder
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, click Tool >
Sensor Recorder on the AI Suite II main menu bar to launch PC Probe II.
Configuring Sensor Recorder
Click the Voltage/Temperature/Fan Speed tabs and select the sensors that you
want to monitor. The History Record tab allows you to record the changes in the
sensors that you enable.
Select the
sensors that
you want to
monitor
Drag to view
the status
during a
certain period
of time
Click to zoom
in/out the Y axis
Click to zoom
in/out the X axis
to the default
Click to return
mode
ASUS P8B WS
4-7
4.3.6
Ai Charger+
Battery Charging Version 1.1 (BC 1.1), a USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF)
certified USB charging function, is designed to make USB charging faster than
the standard USB devices. If your USB device supports the BC 1.1 function*,
when you connect your USB device to your system, the system automatically
detects your USB device and starts a fast USB charging. The charging speed
may get 3 times faster than that of the standard USB devices**.
•
* Check your USB device manufacturer if it fully supports the BC 1.1
function.
•
•
** The actual charging speed may vary with your USB device’s conditions.
Ensure to remove and reconnect your USB device after enabling or
disabling
Ai Charger+ to ensure normal charging function.
4-8
Chapter 4: Software support
4.�.7
Audio configurations
The Realtek® audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the
ultimate audio experience on your computer. The software provides Jack-Detection
function, S/PDIF Out support, and interrupt capability. The CODEC also includes
the Realtek® proprietary UAJ® (Universal Audio Jack) technology for all audio ports,
eliminating cable connection errors and giving users plug and play convenience.
Follow the installation wizard to install the Realtek® Audio Driver from the support
DVD that came with the motherboard package.
If the Realtek audio software is correctly installed, you
will find the Realtek HD Audio Manager icon on the
taskbar. Double-click on the icon to display the Realtek
Realtek HD Audio Manager
HD Audio Manager.
A.
Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows® Vista™
Set default Minimize
device button button
Exit button
Configuration
option tabs
Connector
settings
Analog
and digital
connector
status
Control
settings
window
Information
button
ASUS P8B WS
4-9
B.
Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows XP
Exit
button
Configuration
options
Minimize
button
Control settings
window
Information
button
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
4-10
Chapter 4: Software support
4.4
RAID configurations
The motherboard supports the following SATA RAID solution:
•
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID
5 support.
•
•
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using
Serial ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if
you are using Windows® XP SP3 or later versions.
Due to Windows® XP / Vista limitation, a RAID array with the total capacity
over 2TB cannot be set as a boot disk. A RAID array over 2TB can only be
set as a data disk only.
If you want to install a Windows® operating system to a hard disk drive
included in a RAID set, you have to create a RAID driver disk and load the
RAID driver during OS installation. Refer to section 4.5 Creating a RAID
driver disk for details.
4.4.�
RAID definitions
RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write
data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a
single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone,
thus improving data access and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives
is required for this setup.
RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from
one drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software
directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of
the data in the other drive. This RAID configuration provides data protection and
increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an
existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same
size or larger than the existing drive.
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard
disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better
HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity. The RAID
5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database
applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a
minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.
RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy
data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 configuration you get
all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk
drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.
ASUS P8B WS
4-11
4.4.2
Installing Serial ATA hard disks
The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance,
install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:
1.
2.
3.
Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.
Connect the SATA signal cables.
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.
4.4.3
Setting the RAID item in BIOS
You must enable the RAID function in the BIOS Setup before creating RAID set(s)
using SATA HDDs. To do this:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Enter the BIOS Setup during POST.
Go to the Advanced menu > SATA Configuration, and then press <Enter>.
Set the SATA Mode item to [RAID Mode].
Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup.
Refer to Chapter 3 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS
Setup.
Due to chipset limitation, when set any of SATA ports to RAID mode, all SATA
ports run at RAID mode together.
4.4.4
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility
To enter the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility:
1.
2.
Turn on the system.
During POST, press <Ctrl> + <I> to display the utility main menu.
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology
-
Option ROM
-
v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[
MAIN MENU
5. Exit
]
1. Create RAID Volume
2. Delete RAID Volume
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID
4. Recovery Volume Options
[
DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION
]
RAID Volumes:
None defined.
Physical Devices:
Port Device Model
Serial
#
Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
9LS0HJA4
9LS0F4HL
3LS0JYL8
9LS0BJ5H
[↑↓]-Select
[ESC]-Exit
[ENTER]-Select Menu
4-12
Chapter 4: Software support
The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through
the menus and select the menu options.
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and
may not exactly match the items on your screen.
The utility supports maximum four hard disk drives for RAID configuration.
Creating a RAID set
To create a RAID set:
1.
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press
<Enter>. The following screen appears:
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology
-
Option ROM
-
v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[
CREATE VOLUME MENU
Name: Volume0
]
RAID Level: RAID0(Stripe)
Disks: Select Disks
Strip Size:
Capacity: 0.0
Sync: N/A
128KB
GB
Create Volume
[
HELP
]
Enter
a
unique volume name that has no special characters and is
16 characters or less.
[↑↓]Change
[TAB]-Next
[ESC]-Previous Menu
[ENTER]-Select
2.
3.
Enter a name for the RAID set and press <Enter>.
When the RAID Level item is selected, press the up/down arrow key to
select a RAID level to create, and then press <Enter>.
4.
When the Disks item is selected, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives
you want to include in the RAID set. The SELECT DISKS screen appears:
[
SELECT DISKS
]
Port Drive Model
Serial
#
Size Status
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
9LS0HJA4
9LS0F4HL
3LS0JYL8
9LS0BJ5H
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
Select
2
to
6
disks to use in creating the volume.
[
↑↓
]-Prev/Next [SPACE]-SelectDisk [ENTER]-Done
ASUS P8B WS
4-13
5.
Use the up/down arrow key to select a drive, and then press <Space>
to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after
completing your selection.
6.
Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID array (for
RAID 0, 10 and 5 only),and then press <Enter>. The available stripe size
values range from 4KB to 128KB. The following are typical values:
RAID 0: 128KB
RAID 10: 64KB
RAID 5: 64KB
We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size
for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.
7.
8.
When the Capacity item is selected, enter the RAID volume capacity that
you want and press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum
allowed capacity.
When the Create Volume item is selected, press <Enter>. The following
warning message appears:
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):
9.
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to
go back to the CREATE VOLUME menu.
4-14
Chapter 4: Software support
Deleting a RAID set
Take caution when deleting a RAID set. You will lose all data on the hard disk
drives when you delete a RAID set.
To delete a RAID set:
1.
From the utility main menu, select 2. Delete RAID Volume and press
<Enter>. The following screen appears:
Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology
-
Option ROM
-
v10.0.0.1032
Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
[
DELETE VOLUME MENU
]
Name
Volume0
Level
RAID0(Stripe)
Drives
2
Capacity
298.0GB
Status
Normal
Bootable
Yes
[
HELP
]
Deleting
a
volume will reset the disks to non-RAID.
WARNING: ALL DISK DATA WILL BE DELETED.
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
[↑↓]-Select
[ESC]-Previous Menu
[DEL]-Delete Volume
2.
Use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set you want to delete, and
then press <Del>. The following warning message appears:
[
DELETE VOLUME VERIFICATION
]
ALL DATA IN THE VOLUME WILL BE LOST!
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
Are you sure you want to delete volume “Volume0”? (Y/N):
3.
Press <Y> to delete the RAID set and return to the utility main menu, or press
<N> to return to the DELETE VOLUME menu.
Exiting the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility
To exit the utility:
1.
From the utility main menu, select 5. Exit, and then press <Enter>. The
following warning message appears:
[
CONFIRM EXIT
]
Are you sure you want to exit? (Y/N):
2.
Press <Y> to exit or press <N> to return to the utility main menu.
ASUS P8B WS
4-15
4.5
Creating a RAID driver disk
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing a Windows® operating
system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set.
•
•
The motherboard does not provide a floppy drive connector. You have
to use a USB floppy disk drive when creating a SATA RAID driver disk.
Windows® XP may not recognize the USB floppy disk drive due to
Windows® XP limitation. To work around this OS limitation, refer to section
4.5.4 Using a USB floppy disk drive.
4.5.1
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS
To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Boot your computer.
Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility.
Set the optical drive as the primary boot device.
Insert the support DVD into the optical drive.
Save changes and exit BIOS.
When the Make Disk menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk.
Insert a formatted floppy disk into the USB floppy disk drive, then press
<Enter>.
8.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
4.5.2
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®
To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Start Windows®.
Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk.
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.
Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click Intel AHCI/RAID Driver Disk to
create a RAID driver disk.
5.
Select USB floppy disk drive as the destination disk.
6.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid a computer virus infection.
4-16
Chapter 4: Software support
4.5.3
Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS
installation
To install the RAID driver in Windows® XP:
1.
2.
3.
4.
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to
install third-party SCSI or RAID driver.
Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the USB floppy
disk drive.
When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, select the RAID driver
for the corresponding OS version.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
To install the RAID driver for Windows® Vista or later OS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the
installation media containing the RAID driver.
Insert the USB flash drive with RAID driver into the USB port or the support
DVD into the optical drive, and then click Browse.
Click the name of the device you’ve inserted, go to Drivers > RAID, and then
select the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. Click OK.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
Before loading the RAID driver from a USB flash drive, you have to use another
computer to copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to the USB flash drive.
ASUS P8B WS
4-17
4.5.4
Using a USB floppy disk drive
Due to OS limitation, Windows® XP may not recognize the USB floppy disk drive
when you install the RAID driver from a floppy disk during the OS installation.
To solve this issue, add the USB floppy disk drive’s Vendor ID (VID) and Product
ID (PID) to the floppy disk containing the RAID driver. Refer to the steps below:
1.
Using another computer, plug the USB floppy disk drive, and insert the floppy
disk containing the RAID driver.
2.
Right-click My Computer on
the Windows® desktop or start
menu, and then select Manage
from the pop-up window.
or
3.
Select Device Manager. From the
Universal Serial Bus controllers,
right-click xxxxxx USB Floppy,
and then select Properties from
the pop-up window.
The name of the USB floppy
disk drive varies with different
vendors.
4.
Click Details tab. The Vendor ID
(VID) and Product ID (PID) are
displayed.
5.
6.
Browse the contents of the RAID driver disk to locate the file txtsetup.oem.
Double-click the file. A window
appears, allowing you to select the
program for opening the oem file.
4-18
Chapter 4: Software support
7.
Use Notepad to open the file.
8.
9.
Find the [HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer] and
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer] sections in the
txtsetup.oem file.
Type the following line to the bottom of the two sections:
id = “USB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxx”, “usbstor”
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer]
id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1C02&CC_0106”,”iaStor”
id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor”
[HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer]
id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2822&CC_0104”,”iaStor”
id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor”
Add the same line to both sections.
The VID and PID vary with different vendors.
10. Save and exit the file.
ASUS P8B WS
4-19
4-20
Chapter 4: Software support
This chapter describes how to install and
configure multiple ATI® CrossFireX™ and
NVIDIA® SLI™ graphics cards.
Multiple GPU
5
technology support
Chapter summary
5
5.1
5.2
ATI® CrossFireX™ technology.................................................... 5-1
NVIDIA® CUDA™ technology ...................................................... 5-5
ASUS P8B WS
5.1
ATI® CrossFireX™ technology
The motherboard supports the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology that allows you to
install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation
procedures in this section.
5.1.1
Requirements
•
In CrossFireX mode, you should have two identical CrossFireX-ready
graphics cards or one CrossFireX-ready dual-GPU graphics card that are
ATI® certified.
•
•
Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the ATI CrossFireX technology.
Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com).
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum
power required by your system.
•
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal
environment.
•
Visit the ATI Game website at http://game.amd.com for the latest certified
graphics card and the supported 3D application list.
5.1.2
Before you begin
For ATI CrossFireX to work properly, you have to uninstall all existing graphics card
drivers before installing ATI CrossFireX graphics cards to your system.
To uninstall existing graphics card drivers
1.
2.
Close all current applications.
For Windows XP, go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs.
For Windows Vista, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features.
3.
4.
Select your current graphics card driver/s.
For Windows XP, select Add/Remove.
For Windows Vista, select Uninstall.
5.
Turn off your computer.
ASUS P8B WS
5-1
5.1.3
Installing CrossFireX graphics cards
The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the
motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the
same.
1.
2.
Prepare two CrossFireX-ready
graphics cards.
Insert the two graphics card into the
PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard
has more than two PCIEX16 slots,
refer to Chapter 2 in this user
manual for the locations of the
PCIEX16 slots recommended for
multi-graphics card installation.
3.
Ensure that the cards are properly seated on the slots.
4.
Align and firmly insert the
CrossFireX bridge connector to the
goldfingers on each graphics card.
Ensure that the connector is firmly
in place.
Goldfingers
CrossFireX bridge
5.
6.
Connect two independent auxiliary
power sources from the power
supply to the two graphics cards
separately.
Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the
graphics card.
5-2
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
5.1.4
Installing the device drivers
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install
the device drivers.
Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the ATI®
CrossFireX™ technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website at
www.amd.com.
5.1.5
Enabling the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the CrossFireX™
feature through the ATI Catalyst™ Control Center in Windows environment.
Launching the ATI Catalyst Control Center
To launch the ATI Catalyst Control Center
1.
Right-click on the Windows® desktop and
select Catalyst(TM) Control Center.
You can also right-click the ATI icon in
the Windows notification area and select
Cayalist Control Center.
2.
The Catalyst Control Center Setup
Assistant appears when the system
detects the existance of multi-
graphics cards. Click Go to continue
to the Catalyst Control Center
Advanced View window.
ASUS P8B WS
5-3
Enabling Dual CrossFireX settings
1.
In the Catalyst Control Center
window, click Graphics Settings >
CrossFireX > Configure.
2
2.
From the Graphics Adapter list,
select the graphics card to act as
the display GPU.
3
1
3.
4.
Select Enable CrossFireX.
Click Apply, and then click OK to
exit the window.
4
5-4
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
5.2
NVIDIA® CUDA™ technology
The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® CUDA™ technology and up to 4 NVIDIA®
Telsa™ computing processor cards, providing the optimum multi purpose
computing performance. Follow the installation procedures in this section.
5.2.1
Requirements
•
•
32/64-bit Microsoft® Windows XP/ Vista/ Linux RHEL5.X/ Open SuSE11.X OS
The requirements of memory and power supply vary with the Telsa cards you
installed.
•
•
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal
environment.
The installation steps might be a little different with the Telsa cards you
selected and the VGA output functions. Visit http://www.nvidia.com for more
details if needed.
•
Visit the NVIDIA CUDA Zone website at http://www.nvidia.com/object/
cuda_home.html for the latest driver, list of CUDA-certified graphics card
and supported 3D application list.
5.2.2
Installing CUDA-ready graphics cards
The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the
motherboard layout may vary with models, but the general installation steps
remain the same.
1.
Insert four Tesla computing
processor card(s) into the PCIe
x16_1, PCIe x16_2, PCIe x16_3,
and PCIe x16_4 slot. Ensure that
the cards are properly seated on the
slot.
ASUS P8B WS
5-5
2.
3.
Connect either one 8-pin power
connector or two 6-pin power
connectors from the power supply to
the Quadro graphics card and Tesla
computing processor card(s).
Connect a display cable to the
graphics card.
4.
5.
Refer to the documentation that
came with your graphics card
package to install the device drivers.
To verify graphics card driver
installation, right-click My
Computer and select Properties
from the menu. Click the Hardware
tab, and then click Device
Manager. Click the “+” sign before
Display adapters, and the installed
graphics card and computing processor card(s) should appear.
The screen differs based on the components you installed.
5-6
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Taiwan)
Address
Telephone
Web site
15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
+886-2-2894-3447
http://www.asus.com.tw
Technical Support
Telephone
0800-093-456
Online Support
http://support.asus.com/techserv/techserv.aspx
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (China)
Address
No.508, Chundong Road, Xinzhuang Industrial Zone,
Minhang District, Shanghai, China.
+86-21-5442-1616
+86-21-5442-0099
Telephone
Fax
Web site
http://www.asus.com.cn
Technical Support
Telephone
+86-21-3407-4610 (800-820-6655)
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address
800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Fax
+1-510-608-4555
Web site
http://usa.asus.com
Technical Support
Telephone
(General)
+1-812-282-2787
Support fax
+1-812-284-0883
Online support
http://support.asus.com/techserv/techserv.aspx
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
Address
Harkortstr. 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Deutschland
Telephone
Fax
+49-2102-95990
+49-2102-959911
Web site
Online contact
http://www.asus.de
http://www.asus.de/sales
Technical Support
Telephone
+49-1805-0109-23
Support Fax
+49-2102-9599-11
Online support
http://support.asus.com/techserv/techserv.aspx
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