SABERTOOTH
X79
Contents
About this guide....................................................................................................... viii
Welcome! ....................................................................................................1-1
Package contents.......................................................................................1-1
Special features..........................................................................................1-2
Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-1
Motherboard overview...............................................................................2-2
iii
Contents
Starting up for the first time....................................................................2-44
Turning off the computer.........................................................................2-44
Knowing BIOS............................................................................................3-1
BIOS setup program..................................................................................3-1
Main menu ..................................................................................................3-5
Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................................3-7
Advanced menu .......................................................................................3-17
Monitor menu ...........................................................................................3-26
Boot menu ................................................................................................3-30
Tool menu .................................................................................................3-32
Exit menu..................................................................................................3-36
Updating BIOS..........................................................................................3-37
Support DVD information..........................................................................4-1
iv
Contents
Software information.................................................................................4-3
RAID configurations ................................................................................4-20
Creating a RAID driver disk.....................................................................4-29
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®............................................................... 4-29
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.
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at
ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.
vi
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.
vii
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.
ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2.
Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers,
that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the
standard package.
viii
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used
throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to
complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to
complete a task.
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Typography
Bold text
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>
ix
SABERTOOTH X79 specifications summary
CPU
Intel® Socket 2011 for 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor
Extreme Edition
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list
Chipset
Memory
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
8 x DIMM, Max. 64GB*, DDR3 1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz,
ECC/non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Quad channel memory architecture
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)
* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of
individual CPUs.
** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory
QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists)
Expansion Slots
2 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots (dual at x16/x16 mode)
1 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIe x16_3 at x8 speed)
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots
1 x PCI slot
* This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Functions
will be available when using PCIe 3.0-compliant devices. Please
refer to www.asus.com for updated details.
Multi-GPU Support
Storage
Supports NVIDIA® Quad-GPU SLI™ Technology
Supports AMD® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
-
-
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0,1,5 and 10 support (brown)
4 x SATA 3Gb/s ports with RAID 0,1,5 and 10 support (black)
Marvell® 9128 SATA controller
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports (gray)
ASMedia® 1061 SATA controller
-
-
-
1 x Power eSATA 6Gb/s port (green)
1 x eSATA 6Gb/s port (red)
LAN
Intel® 82579V Gigabit LAN controller
Audio
Realtek® ALC892 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC
-
-
-
Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit True BD Lossless Sound
BD Audio Layer Content Protection
Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-Streaming and Front Panel
Jack-Retasking
-
Optical S/PDIF Out port at back I/O
IEEE 1394
USB
VIA® VT6315N controller supports 1 IEEE 1394a port at back
panel
3 x ASMedia® USB 3.0 controllers
-
-
2 x USB 3.0 ports at midboard for front panel support
4 x USB 3.0 ports at back panel (blue)
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
-
14 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
(8 ports at midboard; 6 ports at back panel)
(continued on the next page)
x
SABERTOOTH X79 specifications summary
Exclusive TUF Features
“Ultimate COOL!” Thermal Solutions
-
-
TUF Thermal Armor
TUF Thermal Radar
“TUF ENGINE!” Power Design
-
-
8+2+2+2 Digital Phase Power Design
TUF Components (Choke, Cap. & MOSFET; certified by
military-standard)
-
ASUS DIGI+ Power Control Utility
“Safe & Stable!” Guardian Angel
-
-
-
ESD Guards
MemOK!
Anti Surge
Other Special Features
ASUS SSD Caching
USB BIOS Flashback
USB 3.0 Boost
Front Panel USB 3.0 Support
ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user
interface
AI Suite II
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS Q-DIMM
ASUS O.C. Profile
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS MyLogo 2™
Multi-language BIOS
Back Panel I/O Ports
1 x PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse combo port
1 x Optical S/PDIF Output port
1 x USB BIOS Flashback Button
1 x Power eSATA 6Gb/s port (green)
1 x eSATA 6Gb/s port (red)
1 x IEEE 1394a port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
8-channel Audio I/O ports
(continued on the next page)
xi
SABERTOOTH X79 specifications summary
Internal I/O Connectors
1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0/2.0
ports (19-pin; moss green)
4 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 8 USB 2.0/1.1
ports
4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors (2 x brown; 2 x gray)
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors (black)
1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin)
1 x CPU OPT fan connector (4-pin)
4 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin)
1 x Assistant Fan connector (4-pin)
1 x PCH Fan connector (4-pin)
1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
1 x COM connector
1 x S/PDIF Out header
1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector
1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
1 x System Panel (Q-Connector)
1 x MemOK! button
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
BIOS Features
64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0,
SM BIOS 2.6, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS,
ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
Manageability
Support DVD
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE
Drivers
ASUS Utilities
ASUS Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
Form factor
ATX form factor: 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
xii
Chapter 1
Chapter 1:
Product introduction
1.1
Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® SABERTOOTH X79 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.
User Manual
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
User guide
Support DVD
motherboard
1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge
connector
4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
1 x ASUS Q-Shield
1 x I/O Cover Fan
1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit
Five-year warranty
1 x TUF Five-year warranty
manual (by region)
1 x TUF Certification card
2 x long fan screws
•
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
•
The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specifications may
vary with different models.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
1-1
1.3
Special features
1.3.1
Product highlights
Intel® Socket 2011 for 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Process Extreme
Edition
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Extreme in
the LGA2011 package, with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to quad-channel
(8 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 16 PCI Express 2.0 lanes. This provides great graphics
performance. Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Extreme is one of the most powerful
and energy efficient CPUs in the world.
Intel® X79 Express Chipset
The Intel® X79 Express Chipset is the latest single-chipset design that supports the new
socket 2011 Intel® 2nd Generation Core™ i7 Processor Extreme. It improves performance by
utilizing serial point-to-point links, allowing for increased bandwidth and stability. Additionally,
the X79 comes with 2 SATA 6Gb/s and 4 SATA 3Gb/s ports for faster data retrieval, doubling
the bandwidth of current bus systems.
Quad-GPU SLI™ and Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Support
SABERTOOTH X79 brings you the multi-GPU choice of either SLI™ or CrossFireX™. The
motherboard features the most powerful Intel® X79 platform to optimize PCIe allocation in
multiple GPU configurations. Expect a brand-new gaming style you’ve never experienced
before!
Quad-Channel DDR3 1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz support
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of
1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest operation
system, 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The quad-channel DDR3
architecture quadruple the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance.
* Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 1866 MHz memory module will run at DDR3 1600 MHz frequency as
default.
PCIe 3.0 Ready
The latest PCI Express bus standard delivers improved encoding for twice the performance
of current PCIe 2.0. Total bandwidth for a x16 link reaches a maximum of 32GB/s, double
the 16GB/s of PCIe 2.0 (in x16 mode). PCIe 3.0 provides users unprecedented data speeds,
combined with the convenience and seamless transition offered by complete backward
compatibility with PCIe 1.0 and PCIe 2.0 devices It is a must-have feature PC users aiming
to improve and optimize graphics performance, as well as have the latest, most future-proof
technology.
* This motherboard is ready to support PCIe 3.0 SPEC. Functions will be available when using PCIe
3.0-compliant devices. Please refer to www.asus.com for updated details.
Complete USB 3.0 Integration
ASUS facilitates strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear panel – 6 USB
3.0 ports in total. Experience the latest plug & play connectivity at speeds up to 10 times
faster than USB 2.0. The SABERTOOTH X79 affords greater convenience to high speed
connectivity.
1-2
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s Support
The Intel® X79 Express Chipset natively supports the next-generation Serial ATA (SATA)
interface, delivering up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer. ASUS provides extra SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports
with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the bandwidth of current bus
systems.
1.3.2
“Ultimate COOL!” Thermal Solutions
TUF Thermal Armor
New generation TUF Thermal Armor kicks cooling up a notch with dual integrated Turbo
Engine fans. This enhances the original TUF thermal design, helping direct heat away from
MOS area components and out the case via the rear I/O section. Special heat pipes propel
dissipation from critical components and make sure temps stay low across the board. The
Thermal Armor also provides modder’s and LAN party goers an extra-cool dress up option to
show off their creativity and dedication to performance.
TUF Thermal Radar
The TUF Thermal Radar monitors temps in critical parts of the motherboard in real time,
automatically adjusting fan speeds to make sure the system maintains high stability without
overheating. It consists of multiple sensors for various components on the motherboard,
giving user the ability to monitor each one individually. The Thermal Radar automatically
calculates ideal fan speeds based on different parameters selected by users for each
component, keeping everything cooler and longer lasting.
1.3.3
“TUF ENGINE!” Power Design
New DIGI+ Power Control
All-new digital CPU and DRAM power controls work perfectly together to match digital
power signal (SVID) requests from the CPU, with ultra-fast sensing and response efficiently
delivering precision power. Accurate delivery reduces waste, and provides more stable CPU
Vcore voltages. With programmable digital controllers onboard, users can adjust CPU and
DRAM PWM voltages and frequencies for various overclocking scenarios, with accurate input
through UEFI BIOS tuning or the exclusive ASUS interface. This proprietary design increases
overclocking headroom to push performance to its full potential.
TUF Components (Choke, Cap. & MOSFET; certified by military-standard)
Get rugged performance even in the most challenging conditions with robust TUF chokes,
solid capacitors, and MOSFETs – certified through third-party, military-grade testing. TUF
chokes, also known as the “Ferrite Choke II”, is a made of compound of various types of
metal instead standard iron, enables the support of up to a massive 50A of rated current,
55% higher than conventional component. Furthermore, the single piece packaging also
elimates the emission of vibration noise, delivering superb characteristics as well as durability
under extreme conditions.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
1-3
1.3.4
“Safe & Stable!” Guardian Angel
MemOK!
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.
ESD Guards
ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) Guards provides protection against electrostatic discharges,
which can damage the motherboard’s components. The ASUS exclusive Anti-Static chip
and circuit design, and the I/O shield provide four times better protection and ensure the
motherboard’s lifespan.
1.3.5
ASUS EZ DIY
UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)
ASUS brand new UEFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional
keyboard BIOS input to enable more flexible and convenient mouse controls. You can easily
navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system. The
exclusive EZ Mode displays frequently-accessed setup info, while the Advanced Mode is for
experienced performance enthusiasts that demand far more intricate system settings.
AI Suite II
With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all the exclusive ASUS features
into one simple to use software package. It allows you to supervise energy management, fan
speed control, voltage and sensor readings. This all-in-one software offers diverse and ease
to use functions, with no need to switch back and forth between different utilities.
ASUS Q-Design
ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-LED, Q-Slot, and Q-DIMM design
speed up and simplify the DIY process!
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-Shield’s special design makes it convenient and easy to install on your
motherboard. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your motherboard against
static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables
to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the trouble of connecting the system panel
cables one at a time and avoiding wrong cable connections.
ASUS EZ-Flash 2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a
bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
ASUS MyLogo2™
This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for a more
colorful and vivid image on your screen.
ASUS Multi-language BIOS
The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the available
options. The localized BIOS setup menu helps you configure your system easier and faster.
1.3.6
ASUS Exclusive Features
ASUS SSD Caching
SSD caching from ASUS is easier than ever. At 3X faster, this feature boosts system
performance by using an installed SSD with no capacity limitations as a cache for frequently
accessed data. Harness a combination of SSD-like performance and response and hard
drive capacity with just one click, no rebooting needed and instant activation for complete
ease of use.
USB 3.0 Boost
New ASUS USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol),
the latest USB 3.0 standard. With USB 3.0 Boost technology, the performance of a USB
device transmission speed is significantly increased up to 130% (TBD), adding to an already
impressive fast USB 3.0 transfer speed. With USB 3.0 Boost technology, the system provides
a user-friendly graphical interface, which spontaneously accelerates the transfer speed
through USB 3.0 peripherals with an ASUS exclusive auto-detect setting.
USB BIOS Flashback
USB BIOS Flashback offers the most convenient way to flash the BIOS ever! It allows
overclockers to try new BIOS versions easily, without even entering their existing BIOS or
operating system. Just plug in USB storage and push the dedicated button for 3 seconds,
and the BIOS is automatically flashed using standby power. Worry-free overclocking for the
ultimate convenience!
1.3.7
Other special features
Power eSATA 6Gb/ Ready
Powered eSATA 6Gb/s combines data and power connectivity. Users enjoy 2X faster transfer
rates, and can use external SATA 6Gb/s devices with no additional power adapters. ASUS
provides two extra ports with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double the
bandwidth of current bus systems for extra speed and accessibility.
* Power eSATA requires a specially designed signal cable to provide 5V power for the external
SATA device. The cable is purchased separately.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
1-5
ErP Ready
The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires
products to meet certain energy efficiency requirement in regards to energy consumptions.
This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efficient products
through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus
mitigate environmental impacts.
1-6
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Chapter 2
Chapter 2:
Hardware information
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 SABERTOOTH X79
2-1
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots
Page
1.
CPU, chassis, power, and assistant fan connectors
2-22
(4-pin CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN1–4, CPU_OPT, ASST_FAN)
DDR3 DIMM slots channel A and B
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)
LGA2011 CPU socket
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
2-5
2-24
2-4
DDR3 DIMM slots channel C and D
MemOK! switch
2-5
2-15
2-20
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_56)
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [brown])
2-17
2-18
2-19
9.
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [black])
10.
Marvell® Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors
(7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [gray])
11.
12.
13.
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
2-25
2-14
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112,
USB1314)
2-21
14.
15.
16.
17.
Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
Standby power LED (SB_PWR)
2-20
2-23
2-21
2-16
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-3
2.2.2
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA2011 socket designed for the Intel®
Core™ i7 Processor Extreme Edition.
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
LGA2011 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
2.2.3
System memory
The motherboard comes with eight 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 SABERTOOTH X79
2-5
Memory configurations
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the
DIMM sockets.
•
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A, Channel B, Channel C and
Channel D. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the quad-
channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then
mapped for single-channel operation.
•
•
•
•
•
Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 1800 MHz memory module will run at DDR3 1600 MHz
frequency as default.
The Max. 64GB memory capacity can be supported with DIMMs of 8GB (or above).
ASUS will update QVL once the DIMMs are available on the market.
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect
the CPU.
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.
Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows OS, when you install 4GB
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
- 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).
The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.4 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.
•
For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
2-6
Chapter 2: Hardware information
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1333 MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
SS/
DS
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip Brand Chip NO.
Timing Voltage
A-DATA
AD63I1B0823EV
2GB
SS A-DATA
SS A-DATA
3CCA-1509A
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
Apacer
AM2U139C2P1
2GB
3CCD-1509A
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AXDU1333GC2G9(XMP)
AD63I1C1624EV
AM2U139C4P2
2GB
SS
-
9-9-9-24 1.25~1.35
4GB
DS A-DATA
DS A-DATA
DS ELPIDA
SS Apacer
DS Apacer
DS Apacer
3CCA-1509A
3CCD-1509A
J4208BASE-DJ-F
AM5D5808DEJSBG
AM5D5808FEQSBG
AM5D5908CEHSBG
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4GB
-
SU3U1333W8G9(XMP)
78.01GC6.9L0
8GB
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1GB
9
9
9
Apacer
78.A1GC6.9L1
2GB
Apacer
78.B1GDE.9L10C
TW3X4G1333C9A
4GB
•
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
Crucial
4GB(2x2GB)
DS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
7-7-7-24 1.65
CMX8GX3M2A1333C9(XMP) 8GB(2x4GB)
CMX8GX3M4A1333C9 8GB(4x2GB)
BL25664BN1337.16FF(XMP) 2GB
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
-
•
•
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
G.SKILL
EBJ10UE8BDF0-DJ-F
EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F
EBJ20UF8BCF0-DJ-F
EBJ21UE8BDF0-DJ-F
F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT
1GB
SS ELPIDA
SS ELPIDA
SS Elpida
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
J2108BCSE-DJ-F
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
D3 128M8CE9 2GB
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1GB
2GB
2GB
DS ELPIDA
DS G.SKILL
4GB(2x2GB)
9-9-9-24 1.5
8-8-8-21 1.5
•
•
F3-10666CL8D-
4GBHK(XMP)
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
F3-10666CL7D-
4GBRH(XMP)
7-7-7-21 1.5
8-8-8-24 1.35
F3-10666CL8D-
4GBECO(XMP)
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL
F3-10666CL9D-8GBRL
F3-10666CL9D-8GBXL
GVP34GB1333C9DC
GET316GB1333C9QC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GB34GB1333C7DC
GG34GB1333C9DC
GVP38GB1333C9DC
HMT112U6TFR8A-H9
HMT325U6BFR8C-H9
HMT125U6BFR8C-H9
HMT125U6TFR8A-H9
HMT351U6BFR8C-H9
FLFE85F-C8KL9
8GB(2x4GB)
8GB(2x4GB)
8GB(2x4GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
DS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.3
9-9-9-24 1.3
7-7-7-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.3
9-9-9-24 1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
-
GEIL
16GB(4x4GB) DS
-
GEIL
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
8GB(2x4GB)
1GB
DS GEIL
DS GEIL
DS GEIL
DS GEIL
GL1L128M88BA115FW
GL1L128M88BA15B
GL1L128M88BA15FW
GL1L128M88BA12N
-
GEIL
GEIL
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
GEIL
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
GEIL
DS
-
Hynix
SS Hynix
H5TC1G83TFR
H5TQ2G83BFR
H5TQ1G83BFRH9C
H5TC1G83TFR
H5TQ2G83BFR
KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A
KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A
KFB8FNLXL-BNF-15A
KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A
KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
IFD77 D9LGK
D1288JPNDPLD9U
D1288JEMFPGD9U
J2108ECSE-DJ-F
D9LGQ
-
-
9
-
-
-
-
-
-
Hynix
2GB
SS Hynix
-
Hynix
2GB
DS Hynix
-
Hynix
2GB
DS Hynix
-
Hynix
4GB
DS Hynix
-
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
2GB
SS KINGMAX
SS Kingmax
DS KINGMAX
DS KINGMAX
DS Kingmax
SS Elpida
-
•
•
•
FLFE85F-C8KM9
2GB
-
FLFE85F-B8KL9
2GB
-
FLFF65F-C8KL9
4GB
-
FLFF65F-C8KM9
4GB
-
-
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/1G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3S8N9/2G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9K2/4G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3E9S/4G
1GB
9
-
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
-
2GB
SS Micron
DS Kingston
DS KINGSTON
DS Elpida
2GB
9
-
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB
9
-
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
MICRON
NANYA
OCZ
MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4M1
MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1
MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4M1
NT4GC64B8HG0NF-CG
OCZ3P1333LV3GK
1GB
SS Micron
SS Micron
SS Micron
SS MICRON
DS Micron
DS Micron
DS NANYA
2GB
D9LGK
-
-
2GB
D9LGK
-
-
2GB
D9PFJ
-
-
•
4GB
D9LGK
-
-
4GB
IGM22 D9PFJ
NT5CB256M8GN-CG
-
-
•
•
4GB
-
-
3GB(3x1GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
8GB(2x4GB)
SS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
7-7-7
9-9-9
7-7-7
9-9-9
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
OCZ
OCZ3G1333LV4GK
-
OCZ
OCZ3P1333LV4GK
-
OCZ
OCZ3G1333LV8GK
-
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-7
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1333 MHz capability (continued)
DIMM socket support (Optional)
SS/
DS
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip Brand Chip NO.
Timing Voltage
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
OCZ
OCZ
PSC
PSC
OCZ3G1333LV8GK
8GB(2x4GB)
8GB(2x4GB)
1GB
DS
DS
-
-
-
9-9-9
1.65
•
•
OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK
PC310600U-9-10-A0
PC310600U-9-10-B0
-
9-9-9
1.65
SS PSC
A3P1GF3FGF
A3P1GF3FGF
K4B1G0846E
K4B1G0846F
K4B2G08460
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2GB
DS PSC
-
SAMSUNG M378B2873EH1-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B2873FHS-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5773DH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5673FH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B5273DH0-CH9
SAMSUNG M378B1G73AH0-CH9
1GB
SS SAMSUNG
SS SAMSUNG
SS Samsung
DS SAMSUNG
DS SAMSUNG
DS SAMSUNG
DS Samsung
DS SAMSUNG
SS Micron
-
1GB
-
2GB
-
2GB
K4B1G0846F
K4B2G0846B-HCH9
K4B2G0846C
K4B2G08460
-
4GB
9
-
4GB
4GB
-
8GB
K4B4G0846A-HCH9
ICD77 D9LGK
H5TQ2G83BFR
D9LGK
-
•
•
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ACTICA
ATP
TS256MLK64V3N(585541)
TS256MLK64V3N(566577)
TS256MLK64V3N(574206)
JM1333KLU-2G(584076)
JM1333KLN-4G(583782)
TS512MLK64V3N(585538)
TS512MLK64V3N(389889)
TS512MLK64V3N(574831)
ACT1GHU64B8F1333S
ACT1GHU72C8G1333S
ACT2GHU64B8G1333M
ACT2GHU64B8G1333S
ACT2GHU72D8G1333M
ACT2GHU72D8G1333S
ACT4GHU64B8H1333H
ACT4GHU72D8H1333H
AQ56M72E8BJH9S
2GB
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
-
2GB
SS Hynix
2GB
SS Micron
2GB
DS Micron
IBG22 D9MNL
TK483PCW3
4GB
DS Transcend
DS Micron
4GB
IED27 D9LGK
H5TQ2G83BFR
D9LGK
•
•
•
4GB
DS Hynix
4GB
DS Micron
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1GB
SS Samsung
SS Samsung
DS Micron
K4B1G0846F
K4B1G0846F(ECC)
D9KPT
1GB
-
2GB
-
2GB
DS Samsung
DS Micron
K4B1G0846F
D9KPT(ECC)
-
2GB
-
2GB
DS Samsung
DS Hynix
K4B1G0846F(ECC)
H5TQ2G83AFR
H5TQ2G83AFR(ECC)
K4B1G0846F(ECC)
K4B2G0846C(ECC)
J1108BFBG-DJ-F
J1108BFBG-DJ-F
NT5CB256M8BN-CG
-
-
4GB
-
4GB
DS Hynix
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2GB
DS SAMSUNG
DS SAMSUNG
SS Elpida
-
•
•
ATP
AQ12M72E8BKH9S
4GB
-
BUFFALO
BUFFALO
BUFFALO
D3U1333-1G
1GB
-
D3U1333-2G
2GB
DS Elpida
D3U1333-4G
4GB
DS NANYA
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13
4GB(2x2GB)
2GB
DS
-
9
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Elixir
M2F2G64CB88B7N-CG
M2F2G64CB88D7N-CG
M2F4G64CB8HB5N-CG
M2F4G64CB8HD5N-CG
GR1333D364L9/2G
SS Elixir
SS Elixir
DS Elixir
DS Elixir
DS Qimonda
N2CB2G808N-CG
M2CB2G8BDN-CG
N2CB2G808N-CG
M2CB2G8BDN-CG
IDSH1G-03A1F1C-13H
•
•
•
•
Elixir
2GB
Elixir
4GB
Elixir
4GB
GoodRam
2GB
KINGTIGER F10DA2T1680
KINGTIGER KTG2G1333PG3
2GB
DS KINGTIGER KTG1333PS1208NST-C9
2GB
DS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
Patriot
Patriot
Patriot
RiDATA
RiDATA
PGS34G1333LLKA
PVS34G1333ELK
PVS34G1333LLK
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
4GB(2x2GB)
2GB
-
7-7-7-20 1.7
9-9-9-24 1.5
7-7-7-20 1.7
-
-
C304627CB1AG22Fe
E304459CB1AG32Cf
DS RiDATA
DS RiDATA
C304627CB1AG22Fe
E304459CB1AG32Cf
9
9
-
-
•
•
4GB
Silicon
Power
SP001GBLTE133S01
SP001GBLTU1333S01
SP001GBLTU133S02
SP002GBLTE133S01
1GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
SS NANYA
SS NANYA
SS S-POWER
DS NANYA
DS S-POWER
NT5CB128M8AN-CG
NT5CB128M8AN-CG
10YT3E5
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Silicon
Power
-
Silicon
Power
9
-
•
Silicon
Power
NT5CB128M8AN-CG
I0YT3E0
•
•
•
Silicon
Power
SP002GBLTU133S02
2GB
1GB
9
Team
Team
Team
Team
TXD31024M1333C7(XMP)
SS Team
SS Team
DS Team
DS Team
T3D1288LT-13
T3D1288LT-13
T3D1288LT-13
T3D1288LT-13
7-7-7-21 1.75
7-7-7-21 1.75
7-7-7-21 1.5-1.6
7-7-7-21 1.5-1.6
•
•
•
•
•
•
TXD31048M1333C7-D(XMP) 1GB
TXD32048M1333C7-D(XMP) 2GB
TXD32048M1333C7-D(XMP) 2GB
•
•
•
2-8
Chapter 2: Hardware information
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1600 MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
A-DATA
AX3U1600XC2G79(XMP)
AX3U1600GC4G9(XMP)
2GB
4GB
4GB
4GB
SS
DS
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.6-1.8
•
A-DATA
-
1.55~1.75
•
•
•
•
•
A-DATA
AX3U1600PC4G8(XMP)
8-8-8-24 1.55~1.75
7-9-7-21 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.5
6-6-6-18 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
6-6-6-18 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
7-7-7-20 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
7-8-7-20 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
8-8-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.5
8-8-8-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.35
7-8-7-24 1.6
9-9-9-24 1.5
9-9-9-24 1.25
8-8-8-24 1.35
9-9-9-28 1.6
7-7-7-24 1.6
8-8-8-28 1.6
A-DATA
AX3U1600XC4G79(XMP)
HX3X12G1600C9(XMP)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
Crucial
12GB(6x2GB) DS
16GB(4x4GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
2GB(2x1GB) SS
•
•
•
•
•
•
CMZ16GX3M4A1600C9(XMP)
CMG4GX3M2A1600C6
CMD4GX3M2B1600C8
CMG4GX3M2A1600C6
CMX4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP)
CMG4GX3M2A1600C7(XMP)
CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP)
CMP6GX3M3A1600C8(XMP)
CMX6GX3M3C1600C7(XMP)
TR3X6G1600C8D(XMP)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CMP8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP)
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C8(XMP)
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP)
BL12864BN1608.8FF(XMP)
BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP)
F3-12800CL9Q-16GBXL(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ(XMP)
F3-12800CL8D-4GBRM(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-4GBECO(XMP)
F3-12800CL7D-8GBXH(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-8GBSR2(XMP)
F3-12800CL8D-8GBECO(XMP)
GET316GB1600C9QC(XMP)
GUP34GB1600C7DC(XMP)
GVP38GB1600C8QC(XMP)
FLGD45F-B8MF7(XMP)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Crucial
2GB
DS
•
•
•
•
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
16GB(4x4GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
16GB(4x4GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
8GB(4x2GB) DS
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
GEIL
GEIL
KINGMAX
1GB
SS
-
-
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP)
12GB(3x4GB) DS
12GB(3x4GB) DS
9
1.65
•
•
KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/
KINGSTON
-
-
9
1.65
•
•
12GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K6/24GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C7D3K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3B1K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3LK2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X1K2/4G
12GB(3x4GB) DS
24GB(6x4GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
9
-
-
-
8
-
9-9-9-24 1.65
-
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
-
•
-
-
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3X2K2/4GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP)
-
9
•
•
•
•
•
-
9
-
9
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3x2GB) DS
-
9
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP)
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP)
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
-
-
-
9
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK
OCZ3X1600LV4GK(XMP)
OCZ3G1600LV6GK
-
8-8-8
8-8-8
8-8-8
8-8-8
8-8-8
9
-
-
OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP)
OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP)
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
Super Talent WP160UX4G9(XMP)
Super Talent WB160UX6G8(XMP)
Super Talent WB160UX6G8(XMP)
-
-
-
-
-
8
-
Asint
SLZ3128M8-EGJ1D(XMP)
2GB
DS Asint
3128M8-GJ1D
-
-
•
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-9
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1600 MHz capability (continued)
DIMM socket support (Optional)
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP)
EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP)
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
9
9
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
GoodRam
GR1600D364L9/2G
2GB
2GB
DS GoodRam GF1008KC-JN
•
KINGTIGER KTG2G1600PG3(XMP)
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Mushkin
Mushkin
Patriot
Patriot
Patriot
PATRIOT
Patriot
Patriot
Team
996805(XMP)
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
12GB(3x4GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
6-8-6-24 1.65
6-8-6-24 1.65
8-9-8-24 1.65
8-8-8-24 1.7
7-7-7-20 1.7
7-7-7-20 1.7
8-8-8-24 1.65
8-9-8-24 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
998805(XMP)
PX7312G1600LLK(XMP)
PGS34G1600LLKA2
PGS34G1600LLKA
PGS34G1600LLKA
PVT36G1600LLK(XMP)
PX538G1600LLK(XMP)
TXD31024M1600C8-D(XMP)
TXD32048M1600HC8-D(XMP)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1GB
2GB
SS Team
DS Team
T3D1288RT-16 8-8-8-24 1.65
T3D1288RT-16 8-8-8-24 1.65
Team
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1600 MHz capability*
DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Chip
NO.
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Timing Voltage
G.SKILL
F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP)
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.6
•
•
•
•
KINGSTON KHX1800C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP)
-
1.65
•
* The above QVL is for the DDR3 1800 MHz memory module. Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 1800 MHz
memory module will run at DDR3 1600 MHz frequency.
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1866 MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
A-DATA
CORSAIR
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
AX3U1866GC4G9B(XMP)
4GB
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75
9-10-9-27 1.5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP)
8GB(2x4GB) DS
F3-14900CL9Q-16GBXL(XMP) 16GB(4x4GB) DS
9-10-9-28 1.5
F3-15000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP)
F3-14900CL9D-8GBSR(XMP)
4GB(2x2GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
9-9-9-24
1.65
9-10-9-28 1.5
F3-14900CL9Q-8GBFLD(XMP) 8GB(2x4GB) DS
9-9-9-24
-
1.6
•
•
KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3GB(3x1GB) SS
1.65
1.65
1.65
-
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ3G1866LV4GK
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
2GB(2x1GB) SS
10-10-10
9-9-9
OCZ3RPR1866C9LV6GK
Super Talent W1866UX2G8(XMP)
Team TXD32048M1866C9(XMP)
8-8-8-24
•
•
2GB
DS Team T3D1288RT-16 9-9-9-24
1.65
•
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1866 MHz capability*
DIMM socket support (Optional)
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
A-DATA
Apacer
AX3U2000GC4G9B(XMP)
78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP)
4GB
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-27 1.55~1.75
9-9-9-27
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
6GB(3x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
-
CORSAIR
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
CMT6GX3M3A2000C8(XMP)
F3-16000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP)
F3-16000CL9T-6GBPS(XMP)
GUP34GB2000C9DC(XMP)
8-9-8-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-9-9-28 1.65
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
OCZ
KHX2000C9AD3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3GB(3x1GB) SS
KHX2000C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2x2GB) DS
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.6
•
•
•
•
9
OCZ3B2000LV6GK
6GB(3x2GB) DS
DS
7-8-7
-
Transcend
TX2000KLN-8GK (388375)(XMP) 4GB
•
•
2-10
Chapter 2: Hardware information
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1866 MHz capability* (continued)
DIMM socket support (Optional)
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
AEXEA
AEXEA
Gingle
Patriot
Patriot
AXA3ES2G2000LG28V(XMP)
AXA3ES4GK2000LG28V(XMP)
FA3URSS673A801A
2GB
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1.65
1.65
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
4GB(2x2GB) DS
2GB DS
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
9-9-9-24
PX7312G2000ELK(XMP)
PV736G2000ELK(XMP)
12GB(3x4GB) DS
6GB(3x2GB) DS
9-11-9-27 1.65
7-7-7-20 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
Silicon Power SP002GBLYU200S02(XMP)
2GB
2GB
2GB
DS
-
-
Team
Team
TXD32048M2000C9(XMP)
TXD32048M2000C9-L(XMP)
DS Team T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24 1.5
DS Team T3D1288RT-20 9-9-9-24 1.6
* The above QVL is for the DDR3 2000 MHz memory module. Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2000 MHz
memory module will run at DDR3 1866 MHz frequency.
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2133 MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing
Voltage
CORSAIR
GEIL
CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(XMP)
GE34GB2133C9DC(XMP)
4GB(2x2GB) DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-10-9-27 1.5
9-9-9-28 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2x2GB) DS
KINGSTON KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2x2GB) DS
9
9
1.65
1.65
•
•
•
Patriot
PVV34G2133C9K(XMP)
4GB(2x2GB) DS
9-11-9-27 1.66
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2133 MHz capability*
DIMM socket support (Optional)
Vendors Part No.
Size
SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing
Voltage
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
GEIL
F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4G(2x2G)
DS
-
-
7-10-10-28 1.65
•
•
•
F3-17600CL8D-4GBPS(XMP) 4GB(2x2GB) DS
F3-17600CL9D-4GBTDS(XMP) 4GB(2x2GB) DS
-
-
8-8-8-24
9-9-9-24
9-10-9-28
9-11-9-28
-
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.65
1.5~1.7
-
-
-
GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP)
GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP)
4GB(2x2GB) DS
8GB(2x4GB) DS
-
-
•
•
•
•
GEIL
-
-
KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KHA(XMP)
4G(2x2G)
DS
-
-
•
•
KINGMAX FLKE85F-B8KJAA-FEIS(XMP) 4GB(2x2GB) DS
Kingmax
N/A
-
* The above QVL is for the DDR3 2200 MHz memory module. Due to CPU behavior, DDR3 2200 MHz
memory module will run at DDR3 2133 MHz frequency.
SABERTOOTH X79 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 2400 MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing
Voltage
2 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM 8 DIMM
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
G.SKILL
GEIL
CMGTX3(XMP)
2GB
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-11-9-27 1.65
•
CMGTX7(Ver5.11)
8GB(2x4GB)
4G(2x2G)
9-9-9-24 1.65
9-11-9-28 1.65
9-11-9-27 1.65
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP)
GET34GB2400C9DC(XMP)
DS
4GB(2x2GB) DS
Transcend
Transcend
Patriot
TX2400KLU-4GK (381850)(XMP) 2GB
TX2400KLU-4GK(374243)(XMP) 2GB
DS
DS
-
-
1.65
1.65
PVV34G2400C9K(XMP)
4GB(2x2GB) DS
9-11-9-27 1.66
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-11
2.2.4
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
PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x16/x16 mode)
PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot
2
3
4
5
6
PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot
PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slot
PCI slot 1
PCIe 3.0 x16_3 slot (at x8 mode)
PCI Express operating mode
VGA configuration
PCIe x16_1
PCIe x16_2
PCIe x16_3
x16
Single VGA/PCIe card (Recommend for
N/A
N/A
single VGA)
Dual VGA/PCIe card
x16
x16
N/A
2-12
Chapter 2: Hardware information
•
•
•
In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (beige) for a PCI Express x16
graphics card to get better performance.
In CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 and PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slots for
PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance.
We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™
mode. Refer to page 2-24 for details.
•
Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2 when using
multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. See page 2-22 for details.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A
B
C
D
E
F
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
G
H
PCIEX16_1
PCIEX16_2
PCIEX16_3
PCIEX1_1
PCIEX1_2
USB3.0 1
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
USB3.0 2
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
USB3.0 3
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
eSATA
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
Intel LAN
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
Marvell 9128
On Chip USB1
On Chip USB2
HD Audio
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
shared
–
–
–
–
On Chip SATA
IEEE 1394
PCI slot
–
–
–
shared
–
shared
–
–
–
–
–
shared
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-13
2.2.5
Jumper
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.
2.
Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3
for about 5–10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3.
4.
Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
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.
2-14
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.6
Onboard switch
The onboard switch allows you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-
case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to
enhance system performance.
MemOK! 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 2.2.7 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.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-15
2.2.7
Onboard LEDs
1.
Standby Power LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED 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.
POST State LEDs
The POST State LEDs of CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD indicate key components
status during POST (Power-on Self Test). 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 intuitional way to locate the root problem within a second.
2-16
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.8
Internal connectors
1.
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1/2 [brown])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6Gb/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® X79
chipset.
•
These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.3 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 3.5.3 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 Service Pack 3 or later versions.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-17
2.
Intel® X79 Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [black])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc drives
via Serial ATA 3Gb/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® X79
chipset.
•
These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.3 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 3.5.3 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 Service Pack 3 or later versions.
2-18
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3.
Marvell® Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [gray])
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6Gb/s
signal cables.
•
•
The SATA6G_E1/E2 (gray) connectors do not support ATAPI devices.
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ATA
hard disk drives.
•
For high performance of ASUS SSD Caching, please connect one HDD and one SSD
to Marvell® SATA6G_E1/E2 connectors.
•
•
For regular usage, the SATA6G_E1/E2 connectors are recommended for data drives.
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the Marvell Storage Controller item in the BIOS
to [Enabled]. Refer to section 3.5.5 Onboard Devices Configuration for details.
•
•
Press <Ctrl> + <M> during POST to enter the Marvell RAID utility to create or delete a
RAID configuration.
If you want to install a Windows® operating system to a RAID configuration created
using the Marvell® SATA controller, you have to create a RAID driver disk using the
motherboard support DVD and load the driver during OS installation. For 32/64-bit
Windows XP OS, load first the Marvell shared library driver, and then load Marvell
91xx SATA Controller Driver. For Windows Vista / Windows7 OS, load only the
Marvell 91xx SATA Controller Driver.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-19
4.
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.
5.
USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_56)
This connector is for the additional USB 3.0 ports, and complies with the USB 3.0
specificaton that supports up to 4.8 Gbps connection speed. If the USB 3.0 front panel
cable is available from your system chassis, with this USB 3.0 connector, you can have
a front panel USB 3.0 solution.
USB3_56
PIN
1
®
Vbus
Vbus
IntA_P2_SSRX-
IntA_P2_SSRX+
GND
IntA_P2_SSTX-
IntA_P2_SSTX+
GND
IntA_P1_SSRX-
IntA_P1_SSRX+
GND
IntA_P1_SSTX-
IntA_P1_SSTX+
GND
IntA_P1_D-
IntA_P1_D+
ID
SABERTOOTH X79
IntA_P2_D-
IntA_P2_D+
SABERTOOTH X79 USB3.0 connector
The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately.
2-20
Chapter 2: Hardware information
6.
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78, 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.
®
SABERTOOTH X79
USB78
USB910
USB1112
USB1314
PIN
PIN
1
PIN
1
PIN
1
1
SABERTOOTH X79 USB2.0 connectors
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.
7.
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.
SPDIF_OUT
®
SABERTOOTH X79
SABERTOOTH X79 Digital audio connector
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-21
8.
CPU, chassis, and assistant fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-4; 4-pin ASST_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 1A (12 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 or CHA_FAN2 for better thermal
environment.
2-22
Chapter 2: Hardware information
9.
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].
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-23
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 450 W.
•
•
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/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 want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with
1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.
2-24
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 SABERTOOTH X79
2-25
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 2011 CPU
Intel LGA 2011 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.
2-26
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.2
CPU installation
Please note the order in opening/ closing the double latch. Follow the instructions printed
on the metal sealing hatch or the illustrations shown below in this manual. The plastic cap
will pop up automatically once the CPU is in place and the hatch properly sealed down.
1
2
A
B
C
3
4
B
A
A
B
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-27
5
6
7
8
B
A
9
B
A
2-28
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
2-32
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.6
Thermal Armor for ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
The Thermal Armor for ASUS SABERTOOTH X79 consists of a rear I/O cover and a
PCH cover and fan assembly, providing effective dissipation of the heat generated from
the motherboard components. To ensure the most optimum heat dissipation, follow the
instruction below to install the I/O cover fan to the rear I/O cover.
1.
Remove the two screws on the rear
I/O cover, and then remove the lid to
show the fan socket.
2.
Place the rear I/O cover fan into the
fan socket, ensuring that the TUF logo
on the fan is facing up.
3.
Secure the fan to the socket using
the screws removed in step 1 and the
long fan screws in accessory pack.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-33
4.
Place the fan cable into the cable slot
on the rear I/O cover.
5.
Connect the fan cable to the
ASST_FAN connector on the
motherboard.
6.
The PCH cover is pre-assembled with
a slim-type fan, providing effective
heat dissipation to the PCH. Remove
the protection film on the PCH cover
before use.
If the PCH fan is not working or
the fan speed is too slow, check if
the fan cable is well-connected. If
the problem persists, refer to local
ASUS service centers for help.
2-34
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.11
Rear panel connection
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Rear panel connectors
1. PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port
2. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6
3. External SATA port
7. IEEE 1394a port
8. Optical S/PDIF Out port
9. USB BIOS Flashback button
10. USB 2.0 ports 1,2,3 and 4
11. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2
12. Audio I/O ports**
4. LAN (RJ-45) port*
5. USB 3.0 ports 3 and 4
6. Power eSATA 6G port
* and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LED and audio port definitions.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-39
•
•
DO NOT insert a different connector to the external SATA port.
DO NOT connect a keyboard/mouse to any USB 3.0 port when installing Windows®
operating system.
•
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.
•
If you want to use the hot-plug function of the external SATA ports, you have to set
the ASM1061 Storage Controller item in the BIOS setting to [AHCI Mode] and install
the Asmedia SATA Controller Driver from the motherboard support DVD. Refer to
section 3.5.5 Onboard Devices Configuration for details.
* LAN ports LED indications
Activity Link LED
Speed LED
Status
ACT/LINK SPEED
LED LED
Status
Description
No link
Description
OFF
OFF
10 Mbps connection
100 Mbps connection
1 Gbps connection
ORANGE
BLINKING
Linked
ORANGE
GREEN
Data activity
LAN port
** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration
Port
Headset
4-channel
6-channel
8-channel
2-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
–
2-40
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers
Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers
2-42
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.13
USB BIOS Flashback
1.
2.
3.
Download the BIOS ROM file from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com). Save
the ROM file to a USB portable disk.
On the rear I/O port, plug the USB disk to the USB port with the WHITE interior. (See
red box in the image below)
Press the BIOS Flashback button for 3 seconds, and the light will begin to flash (on the
third second).
4.
5.
The Flashback function is enabled once the light starts to flash.
The flashing rate of the light signal accelerates along with the updating speed.
Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process
causing the system unable to reboot, please contact the local service station for help.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
2-43
2.4
Starting up for the first time
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
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.
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
No memory detected
One continuous beep followed by two
short beeps then a pause (repeated)
One continuous beep followed by three
short beeps
No VGA detected
One continuous beep followed by four
short beeps
Hardware component failure
7.
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 3.
2.5
Turning off the computer
While the system is ON, 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.
2-44
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 3
Chapter 3:
BIOS setup
3.1
Knowing BIOS
The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is an Unified Extensible Firmware Interface that complies with
UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-
only BIOS controls to enable more flexible and convenient mouse input. Users can easily
navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system. The
term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specified.
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.ç
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 2.2.5 Jumper for information
on how to erase the RTC RAM.
•
The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.
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 SABERTOOTH X79
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/CPU_OPT/Chassis fan speed
Exits the BIOS setup program without saving
the changes, saves the changes and resets
the system, or enters the Advanced Mode
Quick switch to frequently
used menus.
Loads optimized default
Power Saving mode
Normal mode
ASUS Optimal mode
Selects the boot device priority
Selects the boot device priority
Displays the system properties of the
selected mode on the right hand side
•
•
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 Menu bar
General help
Configuration fields
Submenu item
Pop-up window
Scroll bar
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
Monitor
Boot
For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings.
For changing the system boot configuration
Tool
For configuring options for special functions
Exit
For selecting the exit options and loading default settings
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
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. Use
<F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removable storage device.
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.
Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.
•
•
If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)
RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 2.2.5 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 SABERTOOTH X79
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.
3.
Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To change an administrator password:
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.
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.
3.
Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.
From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.
Confirm the password when prompted.
To change a user password:
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.
3-6
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
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.
Scroll down to display the following items:
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-7
Scroll down to display the following items:
Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]
Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal
frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options:
[Auto]
Loads the optimal settings for the system.
[Manual]
Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.
The following three items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner item to
[Manual].
BCLK Frequency [XXX]
Allows you to adjust the CPU and VGA frequency to enhance the system performance.
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.
CPU Strap [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [100MHz] [125MHz] [166MHz] [250MHz]
ClockGen Full Reset [Enabled]
[Enabled] Enabled for better overclocking.
[Disabled] To skip system shutdown at BCLK frequency adjustment.
CPU Clock Gen Filter [Auto]
When enabled, this item may help maximize the CPU overclockability.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]
Memory Frequency [Auto]
Forces a DDR3 frequency slower than the common tCK detected via SPD.
Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz] [DDR3-1333MHz] [DDR3-
1600MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR3-2133MHz] [DDR3-2400MHz] [DDR3-2666MHz]
Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default setting.
3-8
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
OC Tuner
OC Tuner automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of CPU and DRAM for
enhancing the system 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.
Primary Timings
DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [3 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [40 DRAM Clock]
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-9
DRAM COMMAND Mode [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] [2 DRAM Clock] [3 DRAM Clock]
Secondary Timings
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [48 DRAM Clock] – [511 DRAM Clock]
DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [5 DRAM Clock] – [31 DRAM Clock]
DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [16 DRAM Clock] – [63 DRAM Clock]
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
DRAM Write to Latency [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
Third Timings
tRRDR [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tRRDD [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tWWDR [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tWWDD [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tRWDR [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
tRWDD [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
tWRDR [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tWRDD [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
tRWSR [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [15 DRAM Clock]
tCCD [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [7 DRAM Clock]
3-10
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Latency Timings
DRAM RTL (CHA/B/C/D D0/1 R0/1 [Auto])
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] [Advance 12 Clock] – [Advance 4
Clock] [Advance 2 Clock] [Normal] [Delay 2 Clock] [Delay 4 Clock] – [Delay 12 Clock]
[Delay 14 Clock]
DRAM IOL (CHA/B/C/D D0/1 R0/1 [Auto])
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 14 Clock] – [Advance 1 Clock] [Normal] [Delay
1 Clock] – [Delay 14 Clock]
others
DRAM CLK Period [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clock] – [8 DRAM Clock]
Enhanced Training (CHA/B/C/D) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
MCH Duty Sense (CHA/B/C/D) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 DRAM Clock] – [31 DRAM Clock]
MCH Recheck [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
DIGI+ Power Control
Do not remove the thermal module while changing the DIGI+ Power Control related
parameters . The thermal conditions should be monitored.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-11
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 Load-Line Calibration [Auto]
CPU 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. This item allows you to adjust the voltage range from the
following percentages to boost the system performance: 0% (Regular), 25% (Medium),
50% (High), 75% (Ultra High) and 100% (Extreme).
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Medium] [High] [Ultra High] [Extreme]
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specification.
CPU Current Capability [Auto]
This item provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher value brings a
wider total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.
Configuration options: [Auto] [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]
CPU VCORE Boot Up Voltage [Auto]
This item controls the voltage for CPU at initial boot. Set higher value for better
overclockability. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V with a 0.005V interval.
VCCSA Load-line calibration [Auto]
The behavior of the DRAM controller is decided by VCCSA Load-Line. Set to a higher
value for system performance, or to a lower value for better thermal solution.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [High] [Extreme]
VCCSA Current Capability [100%]
Allows you to set the VCCSA current capability. A higher value brings wider total DRAM
controller power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]
CPU VCCSA Boot Up Voltage [Auto]
This item controls the voltage for CPU VCCSA at initial boot. Set higher value for better
overclockability. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V with a 0.005V interval.
CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto]
Switching frequency will affect the transient response and component thermal. Higher
frequency gets quicker transient response.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
CPU Fixed Frequency [XXX]
This item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage Frequency item to [manual]
and allows you to set a CPU fixed frequency. The values range from 300kHz to 500kHz
with a 10kHz interval.
CPU Spread Spectrum [Diasbled]
[Disabled] Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.
[Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
3-12
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]
[T.Probe] Maintains the VRM thermal balance.
[Extreme] Maintains the VRM current balance.
CPU Power Phase Control [Auto]
Phase number is the number of working VRM phase. Increasing phase number under
heavy system loading to get more transient and better thermal performance. Reducing
phase number under light system loading to increase VRM efficiency
[Standard]
Proceeds phase control depending on the CPU loading.
Loads the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.
Proceeds the full phase mode.
[Optimized]
[Extreme]
[Manual Adjustment]
Allows manual adjustment for Regular/Medium/Fast/Ultra
Fast options.
DRAM-AB/DRAM-CD Current Capability [100%]
Setting a higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking
frequency range simultaneously.
Configuration options: [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]
DRAM-AB/DRAM-CD Voltage Frequency [Auto]
This item allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency. Assign a fixed high
DRAM frequency to increase O.C range or a lower DRAM frequency for better system
stability. Configuration options: [Auto] [manual]
DRAM-AB/DRAM-CD Fixed Frequency Mode [XXX]
This item appears only when you set the DRAM-AB/DRAM-CD Voltage Frequency
item to [manual] and allows you to set a DRAM fixed frequency. The values range from
300kHz to 500kHz with a 50kHz interval.
DRAM-AB/DRAM-CD Power Phase control [Auto]
[Optimized] Allows you to set ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.
[Extreme] Allows you to set the Full phase mode.
CPU Performance Settings
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-13
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]
[Disabled] Disables this function.
[Enabled] Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific
condition.
The following items appear only when you set the Turbo Mode items to [Enabled].
Turbo Mode Parameters
Long Duration Power Limit [Auto]
The default setting of this item will be TDP (130W). For Sandy Bridge-E, Turbo Ratio
can be kept a time duration exceed TDP for maximum performance. Any value under
255 can be programmed. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Long Duration Maintained [Auto]
This value can vary from 1 to 32, which indicates the time window for Turbo Ratio over
TDP should be maintained. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Short Duration Power Limit [Auto]
This is the second power limit to provide rapid protection when package power
exceeds Power Limit 1. Default setting is 1.25 times Power Limit 1. For Intel
recommend, platform must be capable of supporting over Power Limit 2 for up to 10
msec. ASUS board can support over Power Limit 2 for a long duration. Use the <+>
and <-> keys to adjust the value.
Additional Turbo Voltage [Auto]
This item allows user to set the maximum additional voltage applied to the CPU when
Turbo Boost is engaged. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.
CPU Core Current Limit [Auto]
This item allows user to enter CPU Current Limit, unit in 0.125A. Use the <+> and <->
keys to adjust the value.
CPU VCORE Voltage [Offset Mode]
[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage.
[Offset Mode]
Allows you to set the Offset voltage.
CPU VCORE Manual Voltage [Auto]
This item appears only when you set the CPU VCORE Voltage item to [Manual Mode]
and allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V
with a 0.005V interval.
3-14
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Offset Mode Sign [+]
This item appears only when you set the CPU VCORE Voltage item to [Offset Mode].
[+]
[–]
To offset the voltage by a positive value.
To offset the voltage by a negative value.
CPU VCORE Offset Voltage [Auto]
This item allows you to set the Offset voltage. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V
with a 0.005V interval.
Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU voltage. Setting a high voltage
may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the system
unstable.
CPU VCCSA Voltage [Offset Mode]
[Manual Mode] Allows you to set a fixed CPU VCCSA voltage.
[Offset Mode]
Allows you to set the CPU VCCSA Offset voltage.
CPU VCCSA Manual Voltage [Auto]
This item appears only when you set the CPU VCCSA Voltage item to [Manual Mode]
and allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage. The values range from 0.800V to 1.700V
with a 0.005V interval.
Offset Mode Sign [+]
This item appears only when you set the CPU VCCSA Voltage item to [Offset Mode].
[+]
[–]
To offset the voltage by a positive value.
To offset the voltage by a negative value.
CPU VCCSA Offset Voltage [Auto]
This item allows you to set the Offset voltage. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V
with a 0.005V interval.
DRAM Voltage (CHA, CHB) [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.99V with a 0.005V
interval.
DRAM Voltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto]
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 1.99V with a 0.005V
interval.
According to Intel CPU spec, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may damage
the CPU permanently. We recommend you install the DIMMs with the voltage requirement
below 1.65V.
CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU and PCH PLL voltage. The values range from 1.80V to 2.10V with
a 0.00625V interval.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-15
VTTCPU Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the VTTCPU voltage. The values range from 1.05V to 1.70V with a
0.00625V interval.
PCH 1.1v Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the 1.1v Platform Controller Hub voltage. The values range from 1.10V to
1.70V with a 0.00625V interval.
PCH 1.5v Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the 1.5v Platform Controller Hub voltage. The values range from 1.50V to
1.80V with a 0.00625V interval.
VTTDDR Voltage (CHA, CHB) [Auto]
Allows you to set the CHA, CHB VTTDDR voltage. The values range from 0.6250V to 1.10V
with a 0.00625V interval.
VTTDDR Voltage (CHC, CHD) [Auto]
Allows you to set the CHC, CHD VTTDDR voltage. The values range from 0.6250V to 1.10V
with a 0.00625V interval.
DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA/B/C/D
The values range from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a 0.0050x interval.
DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA/B/C/D
The values range from 0.3950x to 0.6300x with a 0.0050x interval.
DRAM Read REF Voltage on CHA/B/C/D
The values range from 0.38500x to 0.61500x with a 0.0050x interval.
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.
Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Enhances the PCIE overclocking ability.
Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
3-16
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.1
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.
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.
Hyper-threading [Enabled]
The Intel Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two
logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two
threads or processes simultaneously.
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Only one thread per activated core is enabled.
Two threads per activated core are enabled.
Active Processor Cores [All]
Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.
Configuration options: [All] or by CPU specification
Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs
with extended CPUID functions.
[Disabled]
For Windows® XP OS, select this option to disable this function.
3-18
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]
[Enabled]
Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.
Forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).
[Disabled]
Intel Virtualization Tech [Enabled]
[Enabled]
Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately
and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several
systems.
[Disabled]
Disables this function.
CPU Power Management Configuration
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.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).
[Disabled] The CPU runs at its default speed.
[Enabled] The operating system controls the CPU speed.
Turbo Mode [Enabled]
[Disabled] Disables this function.
[Enabled] Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific
condition.
CPU C1E [Auto]
[Disabled] Disables this function.
[Enabled] Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to
enable the Enhanced Halt State.
CPU C3 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS.
CPU C6 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS.
CPU C7 Report [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C7 report to OS.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-19
3.5.2
PCH Configuration
High Precision Timer [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3.5.3
SATA Configuration
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The SATA
Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA port.
SATA Mode [AHCI 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.
3-20
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
The following two items appear only when you set the SATA Mode item to [IDE Mode].
Serial-ATA Controller 0 [Enhanced]
Allows you to enabled/disabled the Serial-ATA Controller 0.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enhanced] [Compatible]
Serial-ATA Controller 1 [Enhanced]
Allows you to enabled/disabled the Serial-ATA Controller 1.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enhanced]
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]
These items appear only when you set the SATA Mode item to [AHCI Mode] or [RAID Mode]
and allow you to enable/disable SATA Hot Plug Support.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-21
3.5.4
USB Configuration
The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.
The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the
item shows None.
Legacy USB Support [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
[Auto]
The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.
Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).
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.
3-22
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.5
Onboard Devices Configuraton
Azalia HD Audio [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.
Intel LAN Controller [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the controller.
Enables the Intel LAN controller.
Intel PXE OPROM [Disabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable
or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Intel LAN controller.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-23
VIA 1394 Controller [Enabled]
This item allows user to enabled/disabled VIA 1394 controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
PCI Express x1_1 Slot Configuration [Auto]
[AUTO]
The system auto-detects the occupied PCIEx1_1 slot or SATA6G_E1/E2
connector. When both are occupied, only PCIEx1_1 slot can work.
[SATA6G_E1/E2] If SATA6G_E1/E2 (Marvell controller) is enabled, PCIEx1_1 slot will be
blocked and you can connect devices to the SATA6G_E1/E2 connector.
Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled]
This item allows user to enabled/disabled Asmedia USB 3.0.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Marvell Storage Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to select the Marvell storage controller operating mode.
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the controller.
Set to [Enabled] when you want use the function of Marvell RAID.
Marvell Storage OPROM [Enabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable
or disable the OptionRom of the Marvell storage controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASM1061 Storage Controller [AHCI Mode]
Allows you to enable or disable the ASM1061 storage controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [IIDE Moode] [AAHCI Mode]
If you want to use the full functin of the ASM1061 storage contorller (ex. AHCI), we
recommend that you set this item to [AHCI Mode] and install the ASM1061 Controller
Driver from the motherboard support DVD.
ASM1061 Storage OPROM [Enabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [IDE Mode] or [AHCI Mode] and
allows you to enable or disable the OptionRom of the ASM1061 storage controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Serial Port Configuration
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.
Configuration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h; IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4]
[IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]
3-24
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5.6
APM
Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]
[Power On]
[Power Off]
[Last State]
The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.
The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was
before the AC power loss.
Power On By Keyboard [Disabled]
Allows you to disable the Power On by keyboard function or set specific keys on the
keyboard to turn on the system.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key]
Power On By Mouse [Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the Power On by a mouse.
Enables the Power On by a mouse.
Power On By PCIE/PCI [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.
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.
ErP Ready [Disabled]
This item allows user to switch off some power at S5 to get the system ready for ErP
requirement. When set to Enabled, all other PME options will be switched off.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-25
3.6
Monitor menu
The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change
the fan settings.
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; CPU OPT Fan Speed; Chassis Fan 1/2/3/4 Speed;
Assistant Fan Speed; PCH Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan, CPU OPT
fan, chassis fan, assistant fan, and PCH 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.
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]
3-26
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
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]
[Turbo]
[Manual]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
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
0% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle. When the
CPU temperature reaches 75 degree, fan will run up to full speed.
CPU Lower Temperature [20]
Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.
CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 0%
to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under 40ºC, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum
duty cycle.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the Chassis 1/2/3/4 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 1/2/3/4 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]
[Turbo]
[Manual]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan operation.
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-27
The following four items appear only when you set Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Profile to
[Manual].
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the chassis temperature. The values range
from 40ºC to 90ºC.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from
60% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle. When the
chassis temperature reaches 95 degree, fan will run up to full speed.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 Lower Temperature [40]
Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.
Chassis 1/2/3/4 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.
Assistant/PCH Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables the Assistant / PCH Q-Fan control feature.
Enables the Aassistant / PCH Q-Fan control feature.
Assistant/PCH Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]
This item appears only when you enable the Assistant/PCH 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]
Assistant/PCH Fan Profile [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the Assistant/PCH Q-Fan Control feature
and allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the assistant/PCH fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the assistant/PCH fan automatically adjust
depending on the assistant/PCH temperature.
[Silent]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet assistant/PCH fan
operation.
[Turbo]
Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum assistant/PCH fan speed.
Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.
[Manual]
The following four items appear only when you set Assistant/PCH Fan Profile to [Manual].
Assistant/PCH Upper Temperature [70]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the assistant/PCH temperature. The values
range from 40ºC to 90ºC.
Assistant/PCH Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum assistant/PCH fan duty cycle. The values
range from 60% to 100%. The minimum value can not lower than the setting of Min duty cycle.
When the assistant/PCH temperature reaches 95 degree, fan will run up to full speed.
3-28
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Assistant/PCH Lower Temperature [40]
Displays the lower limit of the assistant/PCH temperature.
Assistant/PCH Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]
Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum assistant/PCH fan duty cycle. The values
range from 60% to 100%. When the assistant/PCH temperature is under 40ºC, the assistant/
PCH 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]
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-29
3.7
Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.
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]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
Enables the full screen logo display feature.
Disables the full screen logo display feature.
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature.
Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Disables this function.
The system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs.
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.
3-30
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
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.
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, 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.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-31
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.
3.8.1
ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to
confirm your choice.
For more details, refer to section 3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility.
3-32
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.8.3
ASUS O.C. Profile
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
The Setup Profile Status items show Not Installed if no profile is created.
Label
Allows you to input the label of setup profile.
Save to Profile
Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a profile. Key in a
profile number from one to eight, press <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.
3-34
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.8.4
ASUS Drive Xpert
•
•
Before using the Drive Xpert function, ensure that you have connected the SATA
signal cables and installed SATA hard disk drives to the SATA6G_E1 and SATA6G_E2
connectors.
You can only make one Drive Xpert change a time before you save BIOS settings and
restart the computer.
Drive Xpert Mode
[Normal Mode] Allows you to use the SATA6G_E1 and SATA6G_E2 connectors as normal
SATA connectors.
[Super Speed] Allows you to use the Super Speed function that combines two hard drives
as one single drive partition.
[EZ Backup]
Allows you to use the EZ Backup function that copies and maintains an
identical image of data from the SATA6G_E1 drive to the SATA6G_E2
drive.
When using only one hard disk in Normal Mode, connect the hard disk to the SATA6G_E1
connector on the motherboard.
•
•
All original data of the two hard drives will be erased for Super Speed setup.
All original data of the SATA6G_E2 hard disk will be erased for EZ Backup setup.
Drive Xpert Device(s) List:
SATA 6G E1 (Gray white) / SATA 6G E2 (Gray white)
Press <Enter> to display the information of the hard disks which are connected to the
SATA6G_E1 and SATA6G_E2 connectors on the motherboard.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-35
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 UEFI 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 UEFI Shell from filesystem device
This option allows you to attempt to launch the UEFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one
of the available filesystem devices.
3-36
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
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.
3.10.1
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.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-37
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.
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.
3-38
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 SABERTOOTH X79
3-39
3.10.2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 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 2:
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.
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 perrform
the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.
3-40
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 3.9 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 SABERTOOTH X79
3-41
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:\>
3-42
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
BOARD: SABERTOOTH X79
VER: 0401
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: 09/16/2011
DATE: Unknown
PATH: A:\
BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.
Note
Saving BIOS:
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
3-43
Updating the BIOS file
To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater
1.
2.
At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /gand press <Enter>.
D:\>bupdater /pc /g
The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2011/04/29]
Current ROM
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
BOARD: SABERTOOTH X79
VER: 0401
DATE: Unknown
DATE: 09/16/2011
PATH: A:\
A:
SABERX79.ROM
4194304 2011-08-05 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.
3-44
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Chapter 4
Chapter 4:
Software support
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 2 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 SABERTOOTH X79
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 on the Manual tab. Click
on 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
Shortcut to Thermal Radar
•
•
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 SABERTOOTH X79
4-3
4.3.2
ASUS TUF Thermal Radar
The TUF Thermal Radar monitors temps in critical parts of the motherboard in real time,
automatically adjusting fan speeds to make sure the system maintains high stability without
overheating. It consists of multiple sensors for various components on the motherboard,
giving user the ability to monitor each one individually. The Thermal Radar automatically
calculates ideal fan speeds based on different parameters selected by users for each
component, keeping everything cooler and longer lasting.
Launching Thermal Radar
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Thermal Radar by
clicking the Thermal Radar icon on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
The software screen captures in this manual are for reference only, but the operation
steps remain the same.
Using the Thermal Radar main screen
System thermal
sensor map
System thermal,
fan and voltage
information
Function list
•
•
Click any thermal sensor on the sensor map to read the detail information of the selected
sensor.
On the right part of the Thermal Radar main screen, click Temperature, Fan or Voltage
to see the real-time system thermal, fan and voltage information.
4-4
Chapter 4: Software support
Configuring system fan settings
The TUF Thermal Radar provides easy-to-use fan profiles for adjusting the CPU fan,
assistant fan (I/O cover fan), PCH fan, and the chassis fan speeds according to different
ambient temperatures caused by different climate conditions in different geographic
regions and your PC’s system loading. Thermal Radar also provides fully-customizable fan
speed control, offering the most flexible controls of fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool
environment.
Loading default fan profiles
To load the system default fan profiles
1.
Click
or
from the function list on the bottom of the Thermal Radar main
screen.
2.
Click a fan to configure. For example,
click CPU Fan.
3.
Read the introduction and notice of the
selected fan. Click Setting.
4.
Select a fan profile in the Profile Name
drop-down list and click Apply. You can
also configure other system fans by
clicking the CHA and ASST icon below.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-5
Configuring user-customizable fan settings
You can customize the fan speed to meet different computing and environment needs.
To fast customize the fan speed
1.
2.
3.
Select User in the Profile Name drop-
down list.
Drag the control points on the fan speed
curve to set the fan speed percentage.
Click Apply.
You can also assign the specific system component(s) to monitor and have Thermal Radar to
dynamically adjust the fan speeds in real-time when the temperature of the monitored system
component reaches to certain degree.
To customize the fan speed with advanced options
1.
2.
Select User in the Profile Name drop-
down list.
Drag the paper clip icon to the system
component(s) listed on the right of the
Thermal Radar window. You can assign
maximum three components to monitor.
3.
Adjust the slider(s) under each
component you selected for a
combination of 100% and click Apply.
For example, you assign 60% to
motherboard, 20% to VCORE, and
20% to VCCSA and click Apply,
Thermal Radar automatically sets the
required fan speed by calculating the
overall temperature of the monitored
components.
4-6
Chapter 4: Software support
4.
If you are not sure how to choose
the proper components to monitor
and the percentage to adjust, click
Auto and have Thermal Radar do the
recommended settings for you. Click
Apply for the setting to take effect.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-7
4.3.3
TurboV EVO
ASUS TurboV EVO introduces TurboV that allows you to manually adjust the CPU frequency
and related voltage values. After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD,
launch TurboV EVO by clicking Tool > TurboV EVO on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
TurboV
TurboV allows you to overclock the BCLK frequency, CPU voltage, IMC voltage, and DRAM
Bus voltage in Windows® environment and takes effect in real-time without exiting and
rebooting the OS.
Refer to the CPU documentation before adjusting CPU voltage settings. Setting a high
voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the
system unstable.
For system stability, all changes made in TurboV will not be saved to BIOS settings and
will not be kept on the next system boot. Use the Save Profile function to save your
customized overclocking settings and manually load the profile after Windows starts.
Load profile
Target values
Save the current
settings as a
new profile
Current values
Voltage
Adjustment
bars
Click to show
settings
Undoes all changes
without applying
Click to restore
all start-up
settings
Applies all changes
immediately
4-8
Chapter 4: Software support
Using Advanced Mode
Click on the Advanced Mode tab to adjust the advanced voltage settings.
Advanced mode
Target values
Voltage
Adjustment
bars
Undoes all changes
without applying
Current values
Click to restore
all start-up
settings
Applies all changes
immediately
CPU Ratio
Allows you to manually adjust the CPU ratio.
1.
2.
Click the CPU Ratio tab.
Click ON to activate the CPU Ratio function. The system automatically reboots for the
changes to take effect.
3.
4.
After system reboot, launch TurboV EVO again, and then click the CPU Ratio tab. Drag
the adjustment bar upwards or downwards to the desired value.
Click Apply to make the change take effect.
CPU Ratio
Adjustment bar
Undoes all changes
without applying
Click to restore
Applies all changes
immediately
all start-up
settings
•
•
Set the CPU Ratio Setting item in BIOS to [Auto] before using the CPU Ratio function
in TurboV. Refer to Chapter 3 of your motherboard user manual for details.
The CPU Ratio bars show the status of the CPU cores, which vary with your CPU
model.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-9
CPU Strap
Allows you to manually adjust CPU Strap.
1.
2.
Click the CPU Strap tab.
Drag the adjustment bar to the desired value. The graph on the right will change value
accordingly.
3.
Click Apply and reboot the system to make the change take effect.
CPU Strap
Adjustment bar
Undoes all changes
without applying
Click to restore
Applies all changes
immediately
all start-up
settings
•
•
Applied settings in CPU Ratio affect CPU Strap results.
The value on the CPU Strap diagram varies with your CPU model.
4-10
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.4
DIGI+ Power Control
DIGI+ PowerControl allows you to adjust VRM voltage and frequency modulation to enhance
reliability and stability. It also provides the highest power efficiency, generating less heat to
longer component lifespan and minimize power loss.
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch DIGI+ Power Control
by clicking Tool > DIGI+ Power Control on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Select CPU Power or DRAM Power to adjust the power control settings.
CPU Power
4
5
1
2
Application aids
3
Apply all changes
immediately
6
7
Undo all changes
without applying
Function no.
Function description
1
CPU Load-line Calibration
It allows you to adjust the voltage settings and control the system temperature.
Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking
performance but increases the CPU and VRM thermal.
2
3
4
5
6
CPU Current Capability
CPU Current Capability provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher
value setting gets higher VRM power consumption delivery.
CPU Voltage Frequency
Switching frequency will affect the VRM transient response and component thermal.
Higher frequency gets quicker transient response.
VCCSA Load-line Calibration
The behavior of the DRAM Controller is decided by the VCCSA Load-line. Set to a
higher value for system performance, or to a lower value for better thermal solution.
VCCSA Current Capability
A higher value brings wider total DRAM Controller power range and extends the
overclocking frequency range simultaneously.
CPU Power Phase Control
Increase phase number under heavy system loading to get more transient and
better thermal performance. Reduce phase number under light system loading to
increase VRM efficiency.
7
CPU Power Duty Control
CPU Power Duty Control adjusts the current of every VRM phase and the thermal of
every phase component.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-11
DRAM Power
1
Application aids
2
3
Apply all changes
immediately
Undo all changes
without applying
Function no.
Function description
DRAM Current Capability
A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking
frequency range simultaneously.
1
2
3
DRAM Voltage Frequency
Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency for system stability or to
increase OC Range.
DRAM Power Phase Control
Set Manual Adjustment to faster phase response to increase system performance or
to slower phase response to increase DRAM power efficiency.
•
•
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU and DRAM
specification.
Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
4-12
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.5
Sensor Recorder
Sensor Recorder monitors the changes in the system voltage, temperature, and fan speed on
a timeline. The History Record function allows you to designate specific time spans on record
to keep track of the three system statuses for certain purposes.
Launching Sensor Recorder
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch Sensor Recorder by
clicking Tool > Sensor Recorder on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using Sensor Recorder
Click on Voltage/ Temperature/ Fan Speed tabs for the status you want to monitor. Colored
lines will automatically appear on the diagram to indicate the immediate changes in the
system status.
Using History Record
1.
2.
3.
Click on the History Record tab and adjust the settings on the left for Type, Date,
Record Interval, and Record Duration according to need.
Colored lines will then appear on the diagram to indicate the changes in the requested
status of the given time.
Click on Recording to record the history changes.
Click on Monitor > Sensor on the AI Suite II main menu bar and a highlight of the system
statuses will appear on the right panel.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-13
4.3.6
USB 3.0 Boost
The ASUS exclusive USB 3.0 Boost provides speed boost for USB 3.0 devices and the
up-to-date support of USB Attached SCSI Protocol (UASP). With USB 3.0 Boost, you can
accelerate the transfer speed of your USB 3.0 devices with ease.
Launching USB 3.0 Boost
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch USB 3.0 Boost by
clicking Tool > USB 3.0 Boost on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Configuring USB 3.0 Boost
1.
2.
Connect a USB 3.0 device to the USB 3.0 port.
USB 3.0 Boost automatically detects the property of the connected device and
switches to Turbo mode or UASP mode (if UASP is supported by the connected
device).
3.
You can manually switch the USB 3.0 mode back to Normal mode at any time.
Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
4-14
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.7
ASUS SSD Caching
This feature boosts system performance by using an installed SSD with no capacity
limitations as a cache for frequently accessed data. Harness a combination of SSD-like
performance and response and hard drive capacity with just one click. No rebooting is
needed with instant activation for complete ease of use.
Launching ASUS SSD Caching
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch ASUS SSD Caching
by clicking Tool > ASUS SSD Caching on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Configuring ASUS SSD Caching
1.
Connect one HDD and one SSD to the
the Marvell® SATA ports (SATA6G_E1/
E2). ASUS SSD Caching automatically
detects the HDD and SSD.
2.
Click on Caching Now! to initialize the
connected disks. Initialization status is
shown on the program interface.
3.
4.
Caching function will be activated once
initialization is complete.
Click on Disable when deactivating SSD
caching.
•
During initialization, you can proceed with doing any system operations. You can
check the caching status later or wait for a pop-up message notifying that initialization
is completed.
•
For regular usage, the SATA6G_E1/E2 connectors are recommended for data drives.
•
After disabling SSD Caching, the SSD will become a non-configurable disk in
Windows OS. To use the SSD again for normal functions, go to Disk Management to
reconfigure the SSD.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-15
4.3.8
ASUS Update
ASUS Update lays out the options for updating BIOS on your system. Update BIOS utility
on your system or simply save the utility for later use just by following the directions on this
convenient updating feature.
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.
Using ASUS Update
Select the way you would like to do with the BIOS utility. Click on Next and follow the
instructions to complete your request.
•
•
•
•
Update BIOS from Internet
Download the latest BIOS utility from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com) and
follow the suggested procedures to update the BIOS version on your system.
Download BIOS from Internet
Download the latest BIOS utility from the ASUS service website (www.asus.com) and
save for later use.
Update BIOS from file
Use the BIOS utility demanded from a source file to update the BIOS version on your
system.
Save BIOS to file
Back up the current BIOS utility on your system to another file or USB disk to save for
later use.
There may be risks of system crash when updating BIOS. Backing up the original BIOS
utility is recommended before updating.
4-16
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.9
MyLogo2
This MyLogo utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears
on screen during the Power-On-Self-Tests (POST). Personalize your computer from the very
beginning!
Launching ASUS Update
After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch MyLogo by clicking
Update> MyLogo on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Using MyLogo
Select the way you would like to do update your boot logo. Then click Next and follow the
given instructions.
Change the BIOS boot logo of my motherboard
1.
Under Current BIOS, click Browse and choose the desired image for your boot logo.
Then click on Next.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-17
2.
3.
4.
5.
Click on Auto Tune to adjust image size compatibility or adjust the resolution bar.
You can click on Booting Preview to preview the boot image. Then click Next.
Click on Flash to start updating the image to the boot logo.
Click on Yes to reboot or you can also see the new logo next time you restart your
computer.
Change the boot logo of a downloaded BIOS file and update (or do not update) this
BIOS to the motherboard
1.
At BIOS File, Browse to download the requested BIOS file to your system. This utility
will help you detect the compatibility of the BIOS version.
2.
3.
Then at Picture File, Browse to select the desired image for boot logo. Click Next.
Follow steps 2-5 in Change the BIOS boot logo of my motherboard to complete
logo update.
The fullscreen logo application in BIOS utility must be enabled for MyLogo to take effect.
4-18
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.10
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-
Realtek HD Audio Manager
click on the icon to display the Realtek HD Audio Manager.
A.
Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows® Vista™
Set default device
button
Minimize
button
Exit button
Device
advanced
settings
Configuration
option tabs
Connector
settings
Analog
and digital
connector
status
Control
settings
window
Information
button
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.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-19
4.4
RAID configurations
The motherboard comes with the Intel® X79 chipset and Marvell SATA controller that allow
you to configure Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the
following RAID configurations:
•
•
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support.
Marvell® RAID utility with RAID 0 and RAID 1 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 Service Pack 3 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.
4.4.1
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.
4-20
Chapter 4: Software support
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 ]
1. Create RAID Volume
2. Delete RAID Volume
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID
4. Recovery Volume Options
5. Exit
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]
RAID Volumes:
None defined.
Physical Devices:
Port Device Model
Serial #
9LS0HJA4
9LS0F4HL
3LS0JYL8
9LS0BJ5H
Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
[↑↓]-Select
[ESC]-Exit
[ENTER]-Select Menu
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-21
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:
128KB
Capacity: 0.0
Sync: N/A
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 #
9LS0HJA4
9LS0F4HL
3LS0JYL8
9LS0BJ5H
Size Status
0
1
2
3
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
ST3160812AS
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
[
↑↓
4-22
Chapter 4: Software support
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.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-23
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.
4-24
Chapter 4: Software support
4.4.5
Marvell RAID utility
The onboard Marvell SATA 6.0 Gb/s controller allows you to create a RAID 0 or
RAID 1 array using two SATA hard disk drives. Refer to Chapter 2 of your motherboard user
manual for the exact location of the Marvell SATA 6.0 Gb/s connector.
To enter the Marvell utility, press <Ctrl> + <M> during POST.
All exisiting data on the hard disk drives will be erased when creating or deleting a RAID
array. Ensure that you have back up all your data in your hard disk drives before making
any change to the drive status.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Topology
Information
HBA 0: Marvell 0
Vendor ID
:
:
:
:
1B4B
├ Virtual Disks
Device ID
9130
└ Free Physical Disks
├ PD 0: ST3160812AS
└ PD 8: ST3160812AS
Revision ID
BIOS Version
Firmware Version:
PCIe Speed Rate :
Configure SATA as:
B1
1.0.0.1028
2.2.0.1105
5.0Gbps
AHCI Mode
▶
▶
Help
Marvell RAID on chip controller.
ENTER: Operation
F10: Exit/Save
ESC: Return
Create a RAID Array
1.
2.
Move the selection bar to HBA 0: Marvell 0 and press <Enter>.
Select Configuration Wizard and press <Enter>.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Configure->Select free disks
HBA 0: Marvell 0
├ Virtual Disks
Port ID
PD ID
Type
:
:
:
:
:
0
0
└ Free Physical Disks
SATA PD
Unconfigured
152626MB
MCQ 3G 48Bits
3G
ST3160812AS
9LS0F4HL
3.AAE
*
├ PD 0: ST3160812AS
└ PD 8: ST3160812AS
Status
Size
Feature Support :
Current Speed
Model
:
:
:
:
Serial
FW Version
▶
▶
Help
Use space bar to select the free disks to be used in the array.
ENTER: Operation SPACE: Select F10: Exit/Save ESC: Return
3.
Press <Space> to select the hard drives to be included in the RAID array.
An asterisk (*) appears in front of the selected hard drive. After selecting all the drives
needed for the RAID array, press <Enter> to continue.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-25
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Configure->Select free disksCreate Virtual Disk
HBA 0: Marvell 0
├ Virtual Disks
RAID Level
Max Size(MB)
Stripe Size
: RAID 0
: 305253
: 64KB
└ Free Physical Disks
*
*
├ PD 0: ST3160812AS
└ PD 8: ST3160812AS
Gigabyte Rounding : 1G
Quick Init
Name
Threshold(%)
Next
: Yes
: Default
: 90
▶
▶
Help
Virtual disk configurations.
ENTER: Select F10: Exit/Save
ESC: Return
4.
Use the up or down arrow key to move the selection bar and press <Enter> to
configure further RAID settings.
RAID Level: Select a RAID Level. Configuration options: [RAID 0] [RAID 1]
Stripe Size: Specifies the size of single data block on the virtual disk. In general, a
larger stripe size is recommended for applications requiring large data transfers such
as audio, video, and graphics. A smaller stripe size is better for applications with
content in much smaller size, such as e-mails and documents.
Configuration options: [32K] [64K]
Gigabyte Rounding: In the event of a single physical disk failure in a RAID 1 virtual
disk, Gigabyte Rounding allows the replacement physical disk to be of a size slightly
smaller than the existing physical disk. The capacity of the rebuilt virtual disk equals
to the size of the smaller physical disk included in the RAID 1 array. The configuration
options represent the tolerance value of drive capacity difference.
Configuration options: [None] [1G] [10G]
Name: Enter a name with 1–10 letters (no special characters) for the RAID array.
5.
Move the selection bar to Next and press <Enter>. The following warning message
appears:
Create Virtual Disk
Do you want to create this virtual disk ?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to create the RAID array, or press <N> to cancel. The new RAID array
appears under Virtual Disks, as shown in the image below.
4-26
Chapter 4: Software support
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Topology
Information
HBA 0: Marvell 0
├ Virtual Disks
│ └ VD 0: New_VD
Vendor ID
Device ID
Revision ID
:
:
:
:
1B4B
9130
B1
│
│
├ PD 0: ST3160812AS BIOS Version
1.0.0.1028
2.2.0.1105
5.0Gbps
AHCI Mode
└ PD 8: ST3160812AS Firmware Version:
└ Free Physical Disks
PCIe Speed Rate :
Configure SATA as:
▶
▶
Help
Marvell RAID on chip controller.
ENTER: Operation F10: Exit/Save
ESC: Return
6.
Press <F10>. The following warning message appears:
Exit
Do you want to exit from Marvell BIOS Setup?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to save the RAID setting and exit the Marvell RAID utility.
Delete an existing RAID Array
1.
Select the RAID array to delete and press <Enter>. Select Delete and press <Enter>.
Marvell BIOS Setup (c) 2009 Marvell Technology Group Ltd.
Topology
Information
HBA 0: Marvell 0
├ Virtual Disks
│ └ VD 0: New_VD
ID
: 0
Name
: New_VD
: Functional
: 64K
tatus
│
│
├ PD 0: ST316[Delete]tripte Size
└ PD 8: ST316AID Mode
└ Free Physical Disks
: RAID0
: 304128MB
: N/A
: 2
: 0 8
Size
BGA Status
Number of PDs
Members
▶
▶
Help
Delete the selected virtual disk.
ENTER: Operation F10: Exit/Save
ESC: Return
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-27
2.
The following warning message appears:
Delete Virtual Disk
Do you want to delete this virtual disk ?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to delete the selected RAID array. The following warning message appears:
Delete MBR
Do you want to delete MBR from this virtual disk ?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to delete the Master Boot Record (MBR) from the selected RAID array.
Press <F10>. The following warning message appears:
3.
Exit
Do you want to exit from Marvell BIOS Setup?
Yes
No
Press <Y> to save the RAID setting and exit the Marvell RAID utility.
4-28
Chapter 4: Software support
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.
8.
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>.
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.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-29
4.5.3
Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation
To install the RAID driver in Windows® XP:
1.
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-
party SCSI or RAID driver.
2.
Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the USB floppy disk drive.
3.
When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, select the RAID driver for the
corresponding OS version.
4.
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.
4-30
Chapter 4: Software support
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.
Browse the contents of the RAID driver
disk to locate the file txtsetup.oem.
6.
Double-click the file. A window appears,
allowing you to select the program for
opening the oem file.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
4-31
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.
4-32
Chapter 4: Software support
Chapter 5
Chapter 5:
Multiple GPU technology support
5.1
AMD® CrossFireX™
technology
The motherboard supports the AMD® 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 Dual CrossFireX mode, you should have two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics
cards or one CrossFireX-ready dual-GPU graphics card that are AMD® certified.
•
•
Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the AMD 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. See Chapter 2 for details.
•
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.
•
Visit the AMD Game website (http://game.amd.com) for the latest certified graphics
card and the supported 3D application list.
5.1.2
Before you begin
For AMD CrossFireX to work properly, you have to uninstall all existing graphics card drivers
before installing AMD 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 SABERTOOTH X79
5-1
5.1.3
Installing two 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
(bundled with
graphics cards)
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 AMD® CrossFireX™
technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com).
5.1.5
Enabling the AMD® CrossFireX™
technology
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the CrossFireX™ feature
through the AMD Catalyst™ Control Center in Windows environment.
Launching the AMD VISION Engine Control Center
To launch the AMD VISION Engine Control Center:
1.
Right-click on the Windows® desktop and select
AMD VISION Engine Control Center. You can
also right-click the AMD icon in the Windows
notificAMDon area and select Vision Engine
Control Center.
2.
The VISION Engine Control Center
Setup Assistant appears when the
system detects the existance of multi-
graphics cards. Click Go to continue
to the VISION Engine Control Center
Advanced View window.
Enabling Dual CrossFireX technology
1.
In the Catalyst Control Center window,
click Graphics Settings > Performance
> AMD CrossFireXTM Configuration.
2
2.
From the Graphics Adapter list, select the
graphics card to act as the display GPU.
3
3.
4.
Select Enable CrossFireXTM
.
Click Apply, and then click OK to exit the
window.
1
4
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
5-3
5.2
NVIDIA® SLI™ technology
The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology that
allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the
installation procedures in this section.
5.2.1
Requirements
•
In SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®
certified.
•
•
Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download
the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power
required by your system. See Chapter 2 for details.
•
We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.
•
Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified graphics
card and supported 3D application list.
5.2.2
Installing two SLI-ready 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 SLI-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.
5-4
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
4.
5.
6.
Align and firmly insert the SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics
card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place.
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.
SLI bridge
Goldfingers
5.2.3
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 NVIDIA® SLI™ technology.
Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).
5.2.4
Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the SLI feature in NVIDIA®
Control Panel under the Windows® Vista™ operating system.
Launching the NVIDIA Control Panel
You can launch the NVIDIA Control Panel by the following two methods.
A.
Right click on the empty space of the Windows® desktop
and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears (See Step B5).
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
5-5
B1. If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step
(A), select Personalize.
B2. From the Personalization window,
select Display Settings.
B3. From the Display Settings dialog box,
click Advanced Settings.
5-6
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
B4. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab, and
then click Start the NVIDIA Control
Panel.
B5. The NVIDIA Control Panel window
appears.
Enabling SLI settings
From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select
Set SLI Configuration. Click Enable SLI
and set the display for viewing SLI rendered
content. When done, click Apply.
ASUS SABERTOOTH X79
5-7
5-8
Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
Address
Telephone
Fax
E-mail
Web site
15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
+886-2-2894-3447
+886-2-2890-7798
www.asus.com.tw
Technical Support
Telephone
Online support
+86-21-38429911
support.asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address
Telephone
Fax
800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
+1-812-282-3777
+1-510-608-4555
usa.asus.com
Web site
Technical Support
Telephone
Support fax
+1-812-282-2787
+1-812-284-0883
support.asus.com
Online support
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
Address
Fax
Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany
+49-2102-959911
Web site
Online contact
www.asus.de
www.asus.de/sales
Technical Support
Telephone
Support Fax
+49-1805-010923*
+49-2102-9599-11
support.asus.com
Online support
* EUR 0.14/minute from a German fixed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.
|
